..::Football IV::..

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Croatia 2 Wales 1: Perisic impresses as Dalic's men return to winning ways

Ivan Perisic scored one goal and made the other as Croatia overcame Wales 2-1 in Euro 2020 qualifying in Osijek on Saturday.

Zlatko Dalic's side had lost their last Group E game against Hungary in March, but got back on track thanks to James Lawrence's first-half own goal and Perisic's 48th-minute strike following some shambolic Welsh defending.

Lawrence was unlucky to put through his own net, failing to sort his feet out when racing back towards goal, and the Anderlecht defender was one of three Wales players whose failure to clear allowed Perisic to increase the hosts' lead.


Substitute David Brooks' deflected effort 13 minutes from time gave Ryan Giggs' men hope of a comeback but they could not force an equaliser as the World Cup finalists held on for victory.
An eventful opening saw Perisic twice blaze over, either side of Harry Wilson volleying an even more presentable chance straight at Dominik Livakovic from Gareth Bale's quick-thinking long throw.And Wales were made to pay for that miss in the 17th minute as Perisic got in behind down the left and drilled a low cross towards Andrej Kramaric that Lawrence deflected in.

Kramaric fired off-target as Croatia sought a second prior to half-time, although they were almost caught cold as Livakovic saved from Will Vaulks and then thwarted Ben Davies' rebound.

Within three minutes of the restart, Croatia doubled their lead as Wales gave the ball away and failed three times to clear their lines, allowing Perisic to rifle home.

Bale shot straight at Livakovic when well placed but the Croatia goalkeeper was completely wrong-footed when Brooks' attempt flicked off Domagoj Vida's head and in.

Brooks' weak effort in stoppage time proved the last chance for a dramatic leveller, though, as Wales were made to rue leaving themselves a mountain to climb in searing 30-degree heat.

 

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Eden Hazard completes €100m move to Real Madrid


Chelsea star Eden Hazard has completed a move Real Madrid in a deal worth €100 million (£88m/$112m), and signed a contract through June 30, 2024, the La Liga club have announced.

Goal previously reported the deal is worth a minimum €100m, but can rise to €140m (£124m/$146m) with incentives.The club announced Hazard will be presented as a Madrid player on June 13.

The Blancos sent representatives to London earlier this week to meet with Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia, and Hazard has now officially made the move to Madrid after seven seasons at Chelsea.The 28-year-old has made no secret of his desire to join Real Madrid, calling the move a 'dream' near the beginning of the 2018-19 season.

Following Chelsea's Europa League final triumph over Arsenal last week – a game in which Hazard scored twice – the Belgian admitted he'd likely played his final match for the Blues.

With his contract at Stamford Bridge expiring at the end of the 2019-20 season and no progress made on an extension, Chelsea have accepted the need to cash in on their Belgian superstar this summer rather than let him walk for free.

Granovskaia thanked Hazard in a statement, saying: "Although it is with sadness we say goodbye to Eden and we made it absolutely clear to him the club wished him to stay, we respect the decision he has made to take on a new challenge in a different country and follow his childhood dream of playing for Real Madrid.

"The memories he leaves us with will not fade. He provided all who watched Chelsea play with great entertainment and many match-winning contributions, and for that we thank Eden enormously.

"He has been a model professional throughout his time at the club, a wonderful individual to have around and a joy to work with. We look forward to welcoming him back to Stamford Bridge in the future."

Hazard's departure marks the end of an era for Chelsea, with the attacker having marked himself as one of the club's all-time greats over seven seasons.

Hazard led Chelsea to two Premier League titles, two Europa League titles and one FA Cup during his time at Stamford Bridge.He was also named the PFA Players' Player of the Year in 2014–15, and was runner-up for that award on two other occasions.

After a brilliant career at Chelsea, Hazard has been keen to move on to another challenge and the possibility of working under Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane was a major selling point for the Belgian. Madrid are looking to rebuild after a disappointing 2018-19 campaign that saw them use three different managers and end 19 points behind champions Barcelona in the La Liga table.

The club's spending began before the season even ended with the capture of Eder Militao from Porto, while on Tuesday they announced the €70 million (£62m/$79m) signing of Luka Jovic from Eintracht Frankfurt.

 

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Switzerland 0 England 0 (aet, 5-6 on penalties): Pickford denies Drmic to earn Three Lions third place

Josip Drmic saw his spot-kick saved by Jordan Pickford as England beat Switzerland 6-5 on penalties to claim third place in the Nations League after a goalless draw in Guimaraes.

In the first 90 minutes, England were twice denied by goalkeeper Yann Sommer making fingertip saves to push the ball onto the woodwork, while Callum Wilson had a late strike ruled out following a VAR check.Sommer again came to Switzerland's rescue during the 30 additional minutes but despite a steady stream of excellent Trent Alexander-Arnold crosses England could not find the breakthrough.

Gareth Southgate's side broke their penalty malaise at last year's World Cup and, after 11 converted kicks, including one from Pickford, the Everton keeper dived to his right to keep out Drmic's poor effort and finally settle the prolonged play-off clash.

England almost opened the scoring in the second minute, but Harry Kane's clever chip bounced back off the crossbar after goalkeeper Sommer got a touch to the ball.Kane freed Raheem Sterling for a one-on-one chance but his tame finish was blocked by Sommer, the forward then failing to convert a right-wing cross from Alexander-Arnold.

Another pinpoint Alexander-Arnold delivery created an even better opportunity for Dele Alli in the 35th minute but his header flew over the crossbar.

Sommer made a great save to prevent Fabian Schar scoring an own goal after the interval, turning a deflection off the defender onto the post, then at the other end Pickford was called into action to push away Granit Xhaka's firm drive.Substitute Wilson seemed to have won it late on for England, but the strike was disallowed after a VAR check for his foul on Manuel Akanji in the build-up.

A brilliant double save by Sommer maintained the deadlock in extra time, with the woodwork saving Switzerland again when Sterling beat the goalkeeper with a 20-yard free-kick.

Sommer could do nothing about England's penalties, though, with Pickford netting himself before making the decisive save from Drmic in the shoot-out.

 

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'Every Liverpool fan has Kloppomania!' - Matip hails Reds boss' impact


Liverpool’s Joel Matip has praised manager Jurgen Klopp’s impact on both the team and the city, suggesting that every Reds fan on Merseyside is experiencing ‘Kloppomania’ following their Champions League triumph.

Matip played a vital role for Liverpool in their run to claiming a sixth European title, with the 27-year-old missing just one the club’s knockout matches in the competition.But rather than take any credit for the Reds’ glory in Madrid, Matip was indeed keen to highlight the difference Klopp has made on the side’s fortunes.

"Everyone in Liverpool has worked very hard for this,” the former Schalke man told Bild am Sonntag .“But Klopp is the decisive factor. He has put the team together and led it to where it is now. No question: Klopp is the mastermind of this title.

“He is a 'human catcher' who conquered the whole city of Liverpool - or maybe even whole England - with his enthusiasm. The club, the city, the team, everyone is straight behind him, unconditionally.“It's something like Kloppomania here! Because he is how he is. Genuine and real - simply Kloppo."

As well as preventing Tottenham from scoring in the Champions League final, Matip also proved particularly handy at the other end. It was his 87th-minute pass that fell perfectly for Divock Origi in the box and the Belgian duly dispatched it to add a second and final goal for the Reds.And Matip admits the scenes in Madrid - and back in Liverpool - were like nothing he has ever seen before.

“It is still hard to realise,” said Matip. “It's simply madness what our win has triggered.“The whole city was dressed in red when we came back from Madrid. The pure joy, like an ecstasy. These pictures will always remain in my mind. An unbelievable experience.”

Matip joined Liverpool in 2016 from the Bundesliga and, while looking forward to the upcoming campaign on Merseyside, revealed he could one day return to the German top flight."In football nothing is impossible. At the moment I still have two years remaining in my contract here at Liverpool.

“After some problems and injuries at the beginning meanwhile I feel very comfortable here. And I've been more mature as a player and as a person here in England."

 

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‘I never heard anybody talk about Griezmann’ - Barcelona defender Umtiti dismisses transfer speculation


Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti says that he is unsure whether his international team-mate Antoine Griezmann will join him at Camp Nou next season.Atletico Madrid attacker Griezmann was believed to be on the verge of completing a deal to the Spanish champions, before reports emerged last month suggesting that the move had been vetoed.

The switch was also put into further doubt earlier this week when Atletico president, Enrique Cerezo, revealed he is yet to hear from Barca regarding any potential move for Griezmann.

"I don't know where he's going, he didn't say,” said Cerezo. “I don't have the slightest idea where he will go. I don't think anyone knows. No one from Barca has contacted me,” he added.With so much speculation surrounding the Atletico man, Umtiti was asked about his countryman’s future while on international duty.

"Will he be at Barcelona? That's a very good question,” Umtiti told French outlet RTL following France’s shock 2-0 defeat to Turkey on Saturday.Asked about rumours that the transfer was vetoed by senior Barca players, Umtiti said: “The truth is, I never heard anybody talk about him in our dressing room. Maybe I wasn't there when it happened.”

It is not just Griezmann being linked with a move this summer, with speculation growing that Umtiti himself could be on the move after a disappointing campaign in 2018/19.

The former Lyon man struggled with a knee injury last season and was restricted to just 14 league appearances.However, Umtiti was quick to distance himself from reports that he could be leaving Barca in the near future.

“I have a contract, I feel happy in Barcelona,” said the 25 year-old. “I had a complicated season but that's not a reason to have desires elsewhere. I will be in Barcelona next season.”Next up for Griezmann, Umtiti and their French team-mates, is the slightly less daunting task of beating Andorra on Tuesday.

The world champions' poor performance against Turkey means they sit second in their Euro 2020 qualification group, level on points with Iceland and three points behind leaders Turkey.

 

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Belarus 0 Germany 2: Sane and Reus see off hosts


Leroy Sane and Marco Reus scored as Germany won 2-0 away to Belarus in Euro 2020 qualifying.

Germany struggled for creativity at the Borisov Arena on Saturday despite a star-studded line-up, but Sane's first-half strike set up the Group C victory.Manchester City forward Sane - linked with a move to Bayern Munich - finished coolly to make it 1-0 and Reus struck to settle matters after the interval.

Aleksandr Gutor made a smart block to keep out Serge Gnabry's drive as Germany started well, but the Belarus goalkeeper was beaten in the 12th minute.
Joshua Kimmich slipped a pass through to Sane, who cut inside a defender to smash home.

Belarus rallied, though, and Lukas Klostermann made a superb block to deny Stanislav Dragun a clear strike, with Manuel Neuer tipping Nikita Naumov's header over from the resulting corner.

Despite not getting out of second gear, Germany doubled their advantage in the 62nd minute.Matthias Ginter bisected the Belarus back line with an incisive pass from the right and Reus burst into the box and slammed his finish past goalkeeper Gutor.

Germany pushed to extend their lead in the closing stages but when Ginter delivered a fine cross into the box Sane saw his header bounce back off the foot of the post.

 

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Greece 0 Italy 3: Three and easy for Azzurri


Italy made it three wins from as many Group J matches with a 3-0 victory over Greece in their pursuit of a place at Euro 2020.

Roberto Mancini's side added to wins over Finland and Liechtenstein as Nicolo Barella, Lorenzo Insigne and Leonardo Bonucci all scored inside 10 first-half minutes in Athens. It leaves Italy – who are yet to concede in qualifying – with a maximum return of nine points, while Greece remain on four.

Andrea Belotti was thwarted by Zeca's timely intervention as he sought to get on the end of a threatening throughball inside the opening five minutes.

The Torino striker then showed poor technique in lifting a shot from the edge of the box well over the crossbar at the end of a promising move.But the breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when Greece were overrun at the back and Belotti's cutback was slammed home by Barella.

Greece charged forward in an attempt to get back into the match but were caught on the counter-attack as Insigne darted past Andreas Samaris and poked a deft finish beyond goalkeeper Vasilios Barkas.The match as a contest was over before half-time, Bonucci's header from Emerson's delivery clipping the upright on its way in.

With the points practically assured, Italy produced a composed second-half showing in which retaining possession took precedence over creating opportunities.And Greece could do little to instigate a turnaround, Georgios Masouras going close only to see an offside flag raised as the hosts' frustrations grew.

When substitute Manolis Siopis fired wildly over the bar from a decent position, it was clear that even a consolation goal was going to be beyond Angelos Anastasiadis' side.

 

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Turkey 2 France 0: World champions shocked in miserable outing

Turkey stunned world champions France with a dominant and well-deserved 2-0 triumph in Euro 2020 qualifying on Saturday.First-half goals from Kaan Ayhan and Cengiz Under sealed Turkey's triumph as their revival under boss Senol Gunes continued at pace.

Turkey have won all five matches they have played in Gunes' second stint in charge of the national team and they now sit three points ahead of France in Group H after three games played.


Their latest triumph, achieved in front of a passionate crowd in Konya, came against a France side who simply were not at the races and did not manage a shot on target.

Tottenham pair Hugo Lloris and Moussa Sissoko and Chelsea forward Olivier Giroud were available for selection again after featuring in European finals and all three were included from the start in a strong-looking France side.

But the first half was a drab affair, with the game's first real opening ending in the 30th-minute opener.Under's free-kick was smartly headed across the face of goal by Merih Demiral and Ayhan met it fiercely, nodding in from seven yards with a header that was too hot to handle for Lloris.

France were far too casual with the ball at the back and conceded again in the 40th minute when Paul Pogba was outmuscled by Burak Yilmaz, with Dorukhan Tokoz pouncing on the loose ball and playing in Under, who finished smartly from an angle.

France were in disarray as Demiral nodded a free header just wide and Deschamps made a double change at the break, introducing Kingsley Coman and Ferland Mendy in place of Blaise Matuidi and Lucas Digne.But it made little impact as Lloris made smart saves to keep out Yilmaz and Kenan Karaman before he tipped a well-hit Mahmut Tekdemir effort over the bar.

Yilmaz nearly added a third in the 86th minute before France's woeful night was summed up when Coman was booked for simulation when trying to win a late penalty.

 

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Belgium 3 Kazakhstan 0: Hazard stars as Red Devils cruise



Real Madrid new boy Eden Hazard helped Belgium on their way to an easy 3-0 win over Kazakhstan in Brussels in Euro 2020 qualification.
The hosts made it three wins from three games in Group I thanks to goals from Dries Mertens, Timothy Castagne and Romelu Lukaku.

Hazard was playing his first match since leaving Chelsea for Real Madrid and teed up the opening goal with a typical piece of sharp movement and a precise cross from the right flank.


Mertens was the recipient of Hazard's service and he turned provider as Castagne made it 2-0 soon after and Lukaku put the game beyond any doubt early in the second half.

To the delight of 36,000 at the King Baudouin Stadium, Belgium dominated throughout and only had to wait until the 11th minute for the opener, Mertens fortunate as his shot from Hazard's delivery took a telling deflection over goalkeeper Dmytro Nepohodov.

It was already clear Nepohodov was in for a busy night, after earlier efforts from Axel Witsel and Kevin De Bruyne, and the Belgium lead was doubled when Mertens found space on the left and his cross was headed home emphatically by defender Castagne, who celebrated his first international goal.

Witsel, Lukaku and Mertens all rained shots at the Kazakhstan goal before Jan Vertonghen put a difficult chance over the bar and De Bruyne rattled the crossbar as Belgium threatened a rout.

They made sure of the points in the 50th minute. Mertens cut in from the right flank and curling a left-footed shot against the base of the far post but the ball bounced out straight to Lukaku, who prodded into an empty net for the easiest goal of his Belgium career.

Mertens was the recipient of Hazard's service and he turned provider as Castagne made it 2-0 soon after and Lukaku put the game beyond any doubt early in the second half.

To the delight of 36,000 at the King Baudouin Stadium, Belgium dominated throughout and only had to wait until the 11th minute for the opener, Mertens fortunate as his shot from Hazard's delivery took a telling deflection over goalkeeper Dmytro Nepohodov.

It was already clear Nepohodov was in for a busy night, after earlier efforts from Axel Witsel and Kevin De Bruyne, and the Belgium lead was doubled when Mertens found space on the left and his cross was headed home emphatically by defender Castagne, who celebrated his first international goal.

Witsel, Lukaku and Mertens all rained shots at the Kazakhstan goal before Jan Vertonghen put a difficult chance over the bar and De Bruyne rattled the crossbar as Belgium threatened a rout.

They made sure of the points in the 50th minute. Mertens cut in from the right flank and curling a left-footed shot against the base of the far post but the ball bounced out straight to Lukaku, who prodded into an empty net for the easiest goal of his Belgium career.

 

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'It will not be Miami' - Griezmann says he knows where he will play next season


Antoine Griezmann said he knows where he will be playing next season amid links to La Liga champions Barcelona.Griezmann will leave Atletico Madrid after five years and the French World Cup winner is reportedly destined for Barca.

While Griezmann, Atletico and Barcelona have remained tight-lipped, the 28-year-old star forward seems to have his mind made up.

"I know where I'll be playing next season," Griezmann, who has also been linked to Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United told Telematin .Griezmann – on international duty with France – joined Atletico from Spanish side Real Sociedad in 2014.

Since arriving, Griezmann has won the Europa League, UEFA Super Cup and Supercopa de Espana in Madrid.Griezmann scored 15 La Liga goals as Atletico finished second behind Barca in 2018-19, while he netted 21 in all competitions.

He announced his decision to leave the club earlier in the summer despite having signed a contract extension just last year.

Despite the constant links to the Spanish champions, some doubts have been raised.Atletico president Enrique Cerezo​ said on Friday that Barcelona had not made contact with him over a move.

"I don't know where he's going, he didn't say," he told Onda Cero . "I don't have the slightest idea where he will go. I don't think anyone knows."But it appears the Atleti boss was wrong in some way, as at least one person, Griezmann himself, believes he knows where he'll be.

Despite the constant links to the Spanish champions, some doubts have been raised. Atletico president Enrique Cerezo​ said on Friday that Barcelona had not made contact with him over a move."I don't know where he's going, he didn't say," he told Onda Cero . "I don't have the slightest idea where he will go. I don't think anyone knows."

But it appears the Atleti boss was wrong in some way, as at least one person, Griezmann himself, believes he knows where he'll be.

 

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Portugal 1 Netherlands 0: Guedes delivers Nations League glory

Portugal secured Nations League glory on Sunday as Goncalo Guedes' second-half strike earned a 1-0 victory over Netherlands at the Estadio do Dragao.The host nation had been touted as favourites ahead of the inaugural Finals and they lived up to that billing in Porto, adding more major silverware to their European Championship triumph three years ago.

Cristiano Ronaldo had netted a hat-trick in the 3-1 semi-final win over Switzerland but he was kept relatively quiet on this occasion by Virgil van Dijk and Matthijs de Ligt.


Instead it was left to Guedes to settle matters, exchanging passes with Bernardo Silva and smashing home from the edge of the box, although Jasper Cillessen may feel he could have done better.
Cillessen, winning his 50th cap, was the busier goalkeeper in the opening half-hour, although he was only called upon to make a trio of routine saves – twice from Bruno Fernandes long-range efforts either side of gathering Jose Fonte's header.Fernandes remained a threat, curling narrowly over from the edge of the box as the hosts continued to look likeliest to score as the interval approached.

Netherlands were sharper after the break and Rui Patricio got down smartly to thwart Georginio Wijnaldum, but on the hour Portugal had the goal their play deserved.Guedes found Silva, who returned the ball with a nicely disguised pass, and the Valencia man rifled into the bottom-right corner via the left hand of Cillessen.

Patricio saved impressively from Memphis Depay's header as Netherlands sought a swift response but the closest they came was Marten de Roon firing over from 20 yards as Portugal held on to lift another major international trophy.

 

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De Ligt decides when future call will be made as Barcelona & Man Utd talk builds


There will be no quick decision on the future of Matthijs de Ligt, with the Netherlands defender claiming he will go on holiday before finalising his next move.The Ajax captain has been heavily linked with the likes of Barcelona, Manchester United and Juventus in this transfer window and is one of the most coveted young players on the planet.Having led his club to a league and cup double, as well as starring for his national team as they reached the first-ever UEFA Nations League final, the centre-back is a man in demand.

Nonetheless, following the Oranje’s defeat to Portugal at the Estadio do Dragao, De Ligt claimed that the priority for him was some rest and recuperation in the off-season.

“I don’t know,” De Ligt replied when asked what colour shirt he might be wearing next season, adding that a break will give him the space he needs to decide his future."Now I am going on vacation and I just take a rest, relax and then I will see."When you rest, you have enough time to think so that's good."

The Netherlands were beaten 1-0 courtesy of a Goncalo Guedes goal, bringing a disappointing end to De Ligt’s season, which saw him earmarked as a future world-class talent."I think in the beginning we didn't expect to reach the final but we did, and if it is a final you want to win it,” he said.

"I am not happy that we lost but proud that we came here."The 19-year-old defender helped guide Ajax to the Champions League semi-final, scoring three goals in 17 games while topping Real Madrid and Juventus before falling to Tottenham in the penultimate round

He also made 33 appearances in Eredivisie play for Ajax, as the club won the league and the KNVB Cup.De Ligt has earned 16 caps for the Netherlands, scoring two goals during his senior international career.

The most recent of those came in the Nations League semi-finals, when he recovered from conceding a penalty to help restore parity against England and pave the way for Ronald Koeman's side to side a 3-1 extra-time success.

 

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:Love:'De Gea has shown huge character and mental strength' - Lindegaard praises former Man Utd team-mate


Former Manchester United goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard has praised David de Gea for overcoming a rocky start to life at Old Trafford and become one of the world’s best.

The Danish shot-stopper made 29 appearances for the Red Devils across five seasons and competed closely with the Spaniard for the number one shirt soon after the latter signed from Atletico Madrid in June 2011.De Gea came under fire for making errors early on in his United career, but Lindegaard feels the public were too harsh on his former team-mate in those days.

“He got way too much grief in the beginning on the crosses part of his game,” he told the Evening Standard.“He wasn’t as dodgy as people made him out to be. He just had to adjust his decision making to English football and grow a few kilos.

“David has been a world class goalkeeper since he arrived in England, my first impression of him was he was young, but a huge talent. Much bigger talent than I ever was.“I think the biggest hurdle he had to overcome was to win respect from team mates, media and fans. He struggled in the beginning.“But his mental strength to overcome the difficult periods is what has impressed me the most.

“From where he was at the worst in his first season to where he took it and is today - that shows huge character and mental strength.”De Gea has since gone on to cement himself as one of the Premier League’s finest goalkeepers and has made over 300 appearances for Manchester United, as well as lifting the Premier League title in 2013.

Lindegaard, now plying his trade at Burnley, lost the battle for the starting spot at United due to an ankle injury and claims the turning point for his team-mate came while he sat on the treatment table.“I clearly remember a turning point,” he continued.“The first game he played after my ankle injury was against Chelsea away. Last minute free kick just outside the box.

“Juan Mata took it and shaped the ball perfectly over the wall towards the near top corner. David saved it and the match ended 3-3. “Breaking the save down it wasn’t as good as it looked but David gambled on that corner and won.

“If he had lost, the media and fans would have been ready to lynch him. Instead he became a sensation after that moment.”

 

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Spain 3 Sweden 0: Second-half flurry sees La Roja's 100 per cent start continue

Spain made it four wins from as many games in Euro 2020 qualifying despite coach Luis Enrique's continued absence as a second-half flurry saw them beat Sweden 3-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Monday.

Luis Enrique has been on leave since March due to a family emergency, but Robert Moreno continues to keep the ship on course in his stead, with Serio Ramos, Alvaro Morata and Alvaro Oyarzabal scoring in the final 26 minutes to send Spain five points clear in Group F.Sweden could count themselves extremely fortunate to remain on level terms until the break, as Robin Olsen was forced into several fine saves and Dani Parejo had a goal controversially disallowed.

But Spain eventually found a way past Olsen via Ramos' penalty, before Morata netted the game's second spot-kick and Oyarzabal wrapped up the routine win.
It did not take Spain long to establish control and they went close in the 14th minute when Fabian Ruiz's long-range strike was acrobatically tipped over by Olsen.

That was the first of four vital saves in as many minutes, as Olsen then parried a goal-bound Parejo volley wide, palmed away Ramos' header from the resulting corner and kept Isco's placed effort out.

A few moments later Spain were harshly denied the lead for an apparent offside against Parejo before he squared to Rodrigo Moreno for an easy finish.The onslaught resumed after the break and Spain finally got the breakthrough just past the hour, as Ramos swept home from the spot after Sebastian Larsson was adjudged to have handled a Marco Asensio cross.

Morata – Asensio's replacement – followed Ramos' example five minutes from time, converting after being felled by Mikael Lustig's clumsy lunge.A straightforward win was completed soon after – Oyarzabal curling a wonderful left-footed effort out of Olsen's reach after Fabian's pass.

 

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Congratulations Spain!

VAMOS ESPANA!​

 

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Pjanic expects Juventus to hire 'great' coach to replace Allegri


Juventus midfielder Miralem Pjanic expects the Serie A champions to appoint a "great" coach amid links to Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri.

Sarri has reportedly been granted a release by Premier League side Chelsea so he can replace Massimiliano Allegri on a three-year deal in Turin.Allegri guided Juve to five successive Serie A titles before parting ways with the Italian giants at the end of 2018-19 in the wake of another failed run at the Champions League title.

Pjanic has no concerns about the club's future, though, as he expects Juventus to hire a coach that is more than capable of leading them to more trophies."We are not worried at all, Juventus will be strong as always," Pjanic told reporters ahead of Bosnia-Herzegovina's Euro 2020 qualifier against Italy on Tuesday.

"I'm really happy to play against Italy in Turin. I think my red card against Greece was not fair, fortunately they removed my ban because I wanted to play against Italy in my stadium so badly."I repeat, I'm not worried about Juventus. They'll announce the new manager soon. As everyone is saying, our new manager will be a great one, for sure."

Juve's Allianz Stadium will be the location for the qualifier between Italy and Bosnia, who will be boosted by the return of Pjanic.Pjanic was sent off in Bosnia's 2-2 draw at home to Greece in March, having given the hosts a 2-0 lead.

Italy top Group J with three wins from as many games, five points clear of third-placed Bosnia ahead of Tuesday's clash."It was not simple [for Italy] to come back. It was possible thanks to the experience of [head coach Roberto] Mancini but also to the leaders of this group," Pjanic said.

"Great professional that helped a lot even the young players after a bad moment for the national team. It's very unusual a World Cup without Italy.

"They are playing great football, people like watching them playing. It wasn't easy. We know that they are the favourite of the group, we'll try to stop them."It will be a difficult match because they have lot of great players."

 

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'It is the perfect fit' - Martinez expects Hazard to thrive with Real Madrid


Eden Hazard and Real Madrid are the perfect fit, according to Belgium head coach Roberto Martinez.Hazard joined Madrid from Premier League side Chelsea on a five-year deal last week for a fee that could reportedly rise to €140million.

In the wake of the move, Hazard called the decision the toughest of his career, while admitting that he would not have left London to move to any other club.

The Belgium star will lead Zinedine Zidane's squad overhaul as the La Liga giants look to bounce back from their third-place finish in 2018-19.And Martinez believes Hazard and Madrid fit perfectly together as Belgium prepare for Tuesday's Euro 2020 qualifier against Scotland.

"For Real Madrid, they are getting a phenomenal footballer and for Eden, there couldn't have been too many new chapters in his career," Martinez said."He always said that he was feeling at home in London with Chelsea so probably it was the only place that he could have gone and the place where he always had the dream of going.

"I think it is the perfect fit. Everything has been commanded with incredible respect in every party and I think that's the way things should be done. Now we all look forward to seeing how his new chapter at Real Madrid will start."Hazard – who led Chelsea to Europa League glory this season – is the fourth new arrival at Zidane's Madrid ahead of the 2019-20 campaign.

The 28-year-old follows Eder Militao, Luka Jovic and Rodrygo Goes to the Spanish capital club, with Madrid also reportedly eyeing Lyon full-back Ferland Mendy, Manchester United star Paul Pogba and Paris Saint-Germain's Neymar.

They have also been linked with Tottenham star Christian Eriksen after the midfielder admitted that he could leave Spurs this summer in search of a new challenge, although team-mate Jan Vertonghen is hoping that the Danish star remains in London.

Real Madrid finished third in La Liga this past season, finishing behind both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as the club struggled to truly replace Cristiano Ronaldo following the Portuguese star's move to Juventus.

In addition, the club suffered a stunning Champions League elimination at the hands of Ajax in the round of 16, ending their run of three consecutive European titles.

 

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Chelsea to meet Lampard with Ajax coach Ten Hag cautious over Stamford Bridge job due to transfer ban


Chelsea are set to meet with Frank Lampard to discuss the manager’s role at Stamford Bridge as Juventus prepare to announce the appointment of Maurizio Sarri as their new coach, Goal can confirm.

Derby County head coach Lampard has long been considered a front-runner to replace Sarri and, despite the Europa League winners having assessed several options during a search led by director Marina Granovskaia on behalf of owner Roman Abramovich, their legendary midfielder continues to be a leading candidate.
The Blues will not stand in Sarri’s way of returning to Serie A, with the Italian keen to move to Turin after beating Arsenal 4-1 in the Europa League final last month in what is likely to be his final match in charge.

Chelsea are set to meet with Frank Lampard to discuss the manager’s role at Stamford Bridge as Juventus prepare to announce the appointment of Maurizio Sarri as their new coach, Goal can confirm.

Derby County head coach Lampard has long been considered a front-runner to replace Sarri and, despite the Europa League winners having assessed several options during a search led by director Marina Granovskaia on behalf of owner Roman Abramovich, their legendary midfielder continues to be a leading candidate.

The Blues will not stand in Sarri’s way of returning to Serie A, with the Italian keen to move to Turin after beating Arsenal 4-1 in the Europa League final last month in what is likely to be his final match in charge.

There will also be further announcements at Stamford Bridge as Petr Cech is set to return in a behind-the-scenes role at the club. He will take some of the responsibility from Chelsea's former technical director Michael Emenalo who departed west London in November 2017 and was never replaced.Granovskaia will retain control over transfers, but Cech will add football knowledge to the discussion and link up with the academy.

Cech would be just the latest in a series of returns for legendary players, with Gianfranco Zola, Joe Cole, Paulo Ferreira and Didier Drogba all currently having varied roles within the club.

 

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'Cristiano Ronaldo was my idol' - Jovic delighted to be at boyhood idols Madrid


Luka Jovic used to sleep in a Real Madrid shirt and says Cristiano Ronaldo was his idol.

Jovic has signed a six-year deal with Los Blancos, who paid Eintracht Frankfurt a reported €60 million ($68m, £53m).The Serbia striker becomes part of Madrid's rebuild in Zinedine Zidane's second spell at the club.

Eden Hazard, Eder Militao and Rodrygo Goes are also arriving after Madrid's disappointing 2018-19 campaign.

But Jovic revealed it was Ronaldo, who left Madrid for Juventus last year, who was his idol."Ronaldo, definitely, as a kid," Jovic said when asked who his favourite Madrid player was."Right now I don't pick one player out, as we're all team-mates now.

"I know last season was not the best season at Real Madrid, but hopefully next year will be better."The price does not bring more pressure, I've not really thought about that. I am just focusing on what I have to do on the pitch.

"I've not had a chance to talk to any Madrid players yet. I'd like to talk to Luka Modric and hopefully I will do that in the next few days."

Jovic confirmed a story told by club president Florentino Perez at his unveiling about him sleeping in a Madrid colours growing up."Yes it is true, the jersey was a gift from a family friend," he added. "I was a Madrid fan, like many kids."Of fellow new signing Hazard, who will be unveiled on Thursday, Jovic added: "He is a fantastic player, one of the best in the world and it will be a pleasure to share a dressing room with him."

Jovic also believes he will have no problem in sharing a pitch alongside Madrid legend Karim Benzema. "When he arrived [at Real Madrid], I was 11," Jovic told a news co.

"He's one of the best in the world and I hope to learn a lot from him."I think we're compatible, but Zidane will be the one to decide."I have not spoken with Zidane and at Eintracht I played up front or with other strikers."

 

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James signs five-year contract as Man Utd tie up first signing of the summer

Welsh winger Daniel James has officially completed a move to Manchester United, putting pen to paper on a five-year contract.The 21-year-old was unveiled at Old Trafford on Wednesday afternoon, having agreed to personal terms on the £15 million ($19m) switch from Swansea City last week.

James enjoyed a stellar 2018-19 season at the Liberty Stadium, contributing four goals and seven assists in the Championship.

He will now have the opportunity to impress in the Premier League, much to the delight of United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The Norwegian manager expressed his excitement after sealing the club's first summer signing, stating: “Daniel is an exciting young winger with lots of skills, vision, exceptional pace and a good work ethic. He had a great season with Swansea City and has all the attributes needed to become a Manchester United player.“We are delighted he has signed with our club and we are all looking forward to working with him. This is the perfect environment for Daniel to continue his development.”

James was in an equally positive mood when addressing reporters, admitting that he cannot wait to embark on a new challenge.“This is one of the best days of my life and a challenge I am really looking forward to," he began. "The Premier League is the best league in the world and Manchester United is the perfect place for me to continue to develop as a player.

“This is an incredibly proud moment for me and my family, however, it is tinged with sadness that my father isn’t able to share this experience with us. I am looking forward to working with Ole, meeting the team and getting started.”

James rose through the ranks at Swansea before graduating to the senior squad in 2016 and became a regular in the team after a loan spell at Shrewsbury in 2017.

The young attacker racked up 34 appearances for the Swans last season, earning a place in Ryan Giggs' Wales squad for recent Euro 2020 qualifiers.Swansea officials are sad to see James go, but club chairman Trevor Birch wished him well for the future while confirming his departure.

“We are obviously hugely disappointed to lose a player of Daniel’s quality, especially after such a fantastic breakthrough season for us and the enjoyment he gave to those watching him," Birch said.

“However, given the level of those performances and the fact he has one year remaining on his contract, it was inevitable that once a club of the calibre of Manchester United came calling it would be virtually impossible to hold on to him.
“It goes without saying that we wish him well at his new club, especially after the sad loss of his father recently.

“We can only thank Daniel for his contribution over the past season and the pleasure he brought to so many of us watching his performances. I’m sure he has a great future ahead of him and we wish him every success in his career.’’