Latest ads
-
Sell your Land, House on idamata.lk for FREE
- sajith.xp.pk
- Updated:
-
Handmade Character Soft Toys- anil1961
- Updated:
-
Bodim.lk out now !- Manoj Suranga Bandara
- Updated:
-
Power Lifting Lever Belt- SkullVamp
- Updated:
-
port.lk Domain for sale
- Lankan-Tech
- Updated:
..::Football IV::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
- Start date
Belgium 3 Egypt 0: Lukaku and Hazard on target for smouldering Red Devils
Romelu Lukaku and Eden Hazard were on target as Belgium continued their World Cup preparations with a dominant 3-0 win over Egypt.
Manchester United striker Lukaku completed another 45 minutes on the back of Saturday's 0-0 draw against Portugal after an ankle injury ruined the end of his domestic season, and he opened the scoring in Brussels despite a dreadful earlier miss.
Hazard, along with Kevin De Bruyne, was often at the heart of Belgium's best work and came through some rough treatment from Hector Cuper's side before capitalising on a defensive collapse seven minutes before half-time.Roberto Martinez rung the changes at the break, with an inevitable impact upon his team's earlier fluency, but they nevertheless remained in total control against an Egypt side badly missing the cutting edge of injured talisman Mohamed Salah.
One of the replacements, United midfielder Marouane Fellaini, added Belgium's third in stoppage time.Belgium face Costa Rica next Monday in their final warm-up for a World Cup group including Panama, Tunisia and England, while Egypt's next fixture comes in Group A against Uruguay.
De Bruyne drilled across goal early on but a sliding Lukaku and Yannick Carrasco were unable to finish.Ahmed Fathy was booked for scything through Carrasco in the seventh minute, following Tarek Hamed's yellow card for a similarly robust challenge on Hazard.
A more constructive Egyptian contribution came when Mohamed Elneny saw a 20-yard piledriver blocked by Laurent Ciman but smart interplay from Hazard and De Bruyne soon had the hosts back on the front foot - veteran goalkeeper Essam El Hadary at full stretch to push Dries Mertens' shot over the bar.Mertens then turned provider with a delicious cross from the right flank, only for Lukaku to inexplicably half-volley wide from two yards.
Striker Marwan Mohsen headed Egypt's best chance wide from Mohamed Shafy's left-wing delivery before Lukaku made amends in the 27th minute, converting when El Hadary failed to push Hazard's shot to safety.
Hazard crashed over before gaining the goal a sparkling showing deserved, although the Chelsea star's dinked 12-yard finish only came after woeful defending from right-back Fathy.The goalscorers made way amid a quartet of half-time changes for Belgium, while El Hadary was replaced by Mohamed El-Shenawy in the Egypt goal.
Paris Saint-Germain right-back Thomas Meunier fired just beyond the top-right corner in the 61st minute, with one of the replacements, Nacer Chadli, creating the opening.El-Shenawy bundled unconvincingly to safety after Lukaku's understudy Michy Batshuayi engineered space in the box, while De Bruyne shot too close to the Egypt goalkeeper from a 25-yard free-kick after a driving run was unceremoniously ended by Sam Morsy.
Batshuayi was wasteful once more when fellow sub Adnan Januzaj weaved through some challenges but the striker proved a more adept provider, driving at a flagging defence and cutting back for Fellaini to slam home and complete a night of numerous positives for Martinez.
Romelu Lukaku and Eden Hazard were on target as Belgium continued their World Cup preparations with a dominant 3-0 win over Egypt.
Manchester United striker Lukaku completed another 45 minutes on the back of Saturday's 0-0 draw against Portugal after an ankle injury ruined the end of his domestic season, and he opened the scoring in Brussels despite a dreadful earlier miss.
Hazard, along with Kevin De Bruyne, was often at the heart of Belgium's best work and came through some rough treatment from Hector Cuper's side before capitalising on a defensive collapse seven minutes before half-time.Roberto Martinez rung the changes at the break, with an inevitable impact upon his team's earlier fluency, but they nevertheless remained in total control against an Egypt side badly missing the cutting edge of injured talisman Mohamed Salah.
One of the replacements, United midfielder Marouane Fellaini, added Belgium's third in stoppage time.Belgium face Costa Rica next Monday in their final warm-up for a World Cup group including Panama, Tunisia and England, while Egypt's next fixture comes in Group A against Uruguay.
De Bruyne drilled across goal early on but a sliding Lukaku and Yannick Carrasco were unable to finish.Ahmed Fathy was booked for scything through Carrasco in the seventh minute, following Tarek Hamed's yellow card for a similarly robust challenge on Hazard.
A more constructive Egyptian contribution came when Mohamed Elneny saw a 20-yard piledriver blocked by Laurent Ciman but smart interplay from Hazard and De Bruyne soon had the hosts back on the front foot - veteran goalkeeper Essam El Hadary at full stretch to push Dries Mertens' shot over the bar.Mertens then turned provider with a delicious cross from the right flank, only for Lukaku to inexplicably half-volley wide from two yards.
Striker Marwan Mohsen headed Egypt's best chance wide from Mohamed Shafy's left-wing delivery before Lukaku made amends in the 27th minute, converting when El Hadary failed to push Hazard's shot to safety.
Hazard crashed over before gaining the goal a sparkling showing deserved, although the Chelsea star's dinked 12-yard finish only came after woeful defending from right-back Fathy.The goalscorers made way amid a quartet of half-time changes for Belgium, while El Hadary was replaced by Mohamed El-Shenawy in the Egypt goal.
Paris Saint-Germain right-back Thomas Meunier fired just beyond the top-right corner in the 61st minute, with one of the replacements, Nacer Chadli, creating the opening.El-Shenawy bundled unconvincingly to safety after Lukaku's understudy Michy Batshuayi engineered space in the box, while De Bruyne shot too close to the Egypt goalkeeper from a 25-yard free-kick after a driving run was unceremoniously ended by Sam Morsy.
Batshuayi was wasteful once more when fellow sub Adnan Januzaj weaved through some challenges but the striker proved a more adept provider, driving at a flagging defence and cutting back for Fellaini to slam home and complete a night of numerous positives for Martinez.
Hazard: I'll support Egypt at World Cup for Salah
Belgium star Eden Hazard said he will support Egypt at the World Cup for his friend Mohamed Salah following Wednesday's international friendly.
Egyptian sensation Salah is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in the Champions League final last month and the Liverpool forward missed Belgium's dominant 3-0 victory in Brussels.Egypt are optimistic Salah will be fit for their World Cup Group A campaign against Uruguay (June 14), hosts Russia (June 19) and Saudi Arabia (June 25).
Hazard was on target in the first half at Stade Roi Baudouin after Romelu Lukaku opened the scoring against Egypt midweek before Marouane Fellaini completed the win in the second minute of stoppage time.
Speaking afterwards, Hazard praised Egypt's performance in the absence of Premier League Golden Boot winner Salah, who he hopes will take part at the showpiece tournament."Egypt have good players. We managed to take control of the match and scored an early goal which made things easier for ourselves," Hazard told ON Sport.
"We are glad about defeating Egypt 3-0. I wish Salah the best and hope he returns. I will support Egypt in the World Cup for him."Egypt are so different without Salah but they still performed well with compact lines. Their playing style is close to that of Tunisia."I spoke with Salah after the Champions League final and sent him a message, as I said he is my friend and I want to see him in the World Cup."
Belgium manager Roberto Martinez also hopes to see Salah at the World Cup, adding: "Mo Salah is not just a good player, he's an outstanding footballer, he's a world class footballer after what he's done this season."Any team is going to miss the goal scoring threat of Mo Salah. We all wish him a speedy recovery and we want to see him in the World Cup."
Belgium led 2-0 at half-time thanks to Lukaku and Hazard following a comfortable opening 45 minutes against Egypt.Martinez made a host of changes at the break and it impacted Belgium's fluency, though substitute Fellaini added a third in the 92nd minute.
"I don't think we are physically, tactically and mentally ready ... and that's why the Costa Rica game will be important," said Martinez, whose Belgium will face Panama (June 18), Tunisia (June 23) and England (June 28) in Group G after Monday's friendly against Costa Rica."I don't think our performance was perfect, far from it. There are many aspects that we need to improve. But what I like is that when we make mistakes we've got the togetherness to try to overcome them and I don't think we had that before and that's very pleasing."
Belgium star Eden Hazard said he will support Egypt at the World Cup for his friend Mohamed Salah following Wednesday's international friendly.
Egyptian sensation Salah is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in the Champions League final last month and the Liverpool forward missed Belgium's dominant 3-0 victory in Brussels.Egypt are optimistic Salah will be fit for their World Cup Group A campaign against Uruguay (June 14), hosts Russia (June 19) and Saudi Arabia (June 25).
Hazard was on target in the first half at Stade Roi Baudouin after Romelu Lukaku opened the scoring against Egypt midweek before Marouane Fellaini completed the win in the second minute of stoppage time.
Speaking afterwards, Hazard praised Egypt's performance in the absence of Premier League Golden Boot winner Salah, who he hopes will take part at the showpiece tournament."Egypt have good players. We managed to take control of the match and scored an early goal which made things easier for ourselves," Hazard told ON Sport.
"We are glad about defeating Egypt 3-0. I wish Salah the best and hope he returns. I will support Egypt in the World Cup for him."Egypt are so different without Salah but they still performed well with compact lines. Their playing style is close to that of Tunisia."I spoke with Salah after the Champions League final and sent him a message, as I said he is my friend and I want to see him in the World Cup."
Belgium manager Roberto Martinez also hopes to see Salah at the World Cup, adding: "Mo Salah is not just a good player, he's an outstanding footballer, he's a world class footballer after what he's done this season."Any team is going to miss the goal scoring threat of Mo Salah. We all wish him a speedy recovery and we want to see him in the World Cup."
Belgium led 2-0 at half-time thanks to Lukaku and Hazard following a comfortable opening 45 minutes against Egypt.Martinez made a host of changes at the break and it impacted Belgium's fluency, though substitute Fellaini added a third in the 92nd minute.
"I don't think we are physically, tactically and mentally ready ... and that's why the Costa Rica game will be important," said Martinez, whose Belgium will face Panama (June 18), Tunisia (June 23) and England (June 28) in Group G after Monday's friendly against Costa Rica."I don't think our performance was perfect, far from it. There are many aspects that we need to improve. But what I like is that when we make mistakes we've got the togetherness to try to overcome them and I don't think we had that before and that's very pleasing."
Ronaldo: Portugal must 'think big' to repeat success from Euros
Cristiano Ronaldo said Portugal must be realistic as they are not among the World Cup favourites, though the Real Madrid superstar urged his team-mates to "think big" and insisted nothing is impossible.
Portugal defied the odds to be crowned European champions two years ago and captain Ronaldo – who is set to return to the starting XI for Thursday's friendly against Algeria having enjoyed some rest following last month's Champions League triumph – said Fernando Santos' men will give their all at the showpiece tournament.
Led by Ronaldo as Portugal were sent off to the World Cup at a Lisbon reception held by president Marcelo Rebelo De Sousa Wednesday, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner said: "What I can guarantee is a great ambition of all of us players and technical team."We know we are not the favourites, we have to be realistic, but in football nothing is impossible.
"I think we must think match by match. The first match, the group stage will be extremely difficult but I think that with these players we need to think big and I am confident that we will give our best.""What I can say is that we will do the same [of Euro 2016] fight to the end always keeping hope that in football everything is possible," Ronaldo – Portugal's most capped player and leading scorer – continued.
"Step by step see what will happen, what the competition will bring us and for us is a privilege to represent Portugal's colours [and] represent this nation."We will give our best and wait to see what we will get from it. Thank you very much to have us here for us is a privilege, thank you very much."
Portugal open World Cup play against Spain on June 15 before facing Morocco (June 20) and Iran (June 20) to round out group play.
Cristiano Ronaldo said Portugal must be realistic as they are not among the World Cup favourites, though the Real Madrid superstar urged his team-mates to "think big" and insisted nothing is impossible.
Portugal defied the odds to be crowned European champions two years ago and captain Ronaldo – who is set to return to the starting XI for Thursday's friendly against Algeria having enjoyed some rest following last month's Champions League triumph – said Fernando Santos' men will give their all at the showpiece tournament.
Led by Ronaldo as Portugal were sent off to the World Cup at a Lisbon reception held by president Marcelo Rebelo De Sousa Wednesday, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner said: "What I can guarantee is a great ambition of all of us players and technical team."We know we are not the favourites, we have to be realistic, but in football nothing is impossible.
"I think we must think match by match. The first match, the group stage will be extremely difficult but I think that with these players we need to think big and I am confident that we will give our best.""What I can say is that we will do the same [of Euro 2016] fight to the end always keeping hope that in football everything is possible," Ronaldo – Portugal's most capped player and leading scorer – continued.
"Step by step see what will happen, what the competition will bring us and for us is a privilege to represent Portugal's colours [and] represent this nation."We will give our best and wait to see what we will get from it. Thank you very much to have us here for us is a privilege, thank you very much."
Portugal open World Cup play against Spain on June 15 before facing Morocco (June 20) and Iran (June 20) to round out group play.
Martinez: Belgium can't rely on individual talent to win World Cup
Belgium cannot afford to rely on the individual talents of Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard and Dries Mertens if they are to be successful at the World Cup, says Roberto Martinez.
The Red Devils travel to Russia with some of the hottest talent in Europe within their ranks, and consequently are tipped to challenge for the title.Premier League winner De Bruyne completed 18 assists for Manchester City in 2017-18, while Chelsea's Hazard found the back of the net on 12 occasions.
In Italy, Mertens was fifth top scorer with 18 Serie A strikes, while Martinez also has the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Jan Vertonghen and Thibaut Courtois at his disposal.Despite the individual talent throughout Belgium's squad, Martinez – who oversaw Wednesday's 3-0 win over Egypt in Brussels – is keen for them to come together as a group if they are to improve on a quarter-final finish four years ago.
"What is good about this generation is that when they come together they are a group of players that are prepared to work for each other and be a team," the Spaniard told Omnisport prior to the midweek friendly victory.
"I don't think we should look any further than what we can achieve as a team and the team is made by outstanding individuals."But that's probably what we need to work extremely hard in the preparation that we can add all of these individuals to become a strong team without expecting one single player to win a football game because that will never take us to where we want to get."
Martinez will be supported by Thierry Henry at the World Cup, and he believes the former France international has helped develop a winning mentality within the squad. "Thierry has been a fantastic addition to our technical staff," added the former Everton boss.
"To have his experiences he had as a player are invaluable and for someone who has won the World Cup and the European Championships in the middle of a very talented generation but who were the first ones to have the winning feeling around the group which is essential.
"But on top of that you have someone who is passionate about the game, who is obsessed about the game, who uses his experience to the maximum and who is someone who has made a huge contribution so far in the qualifying campaign and is going to be exactly the same at the World Cup."
Belgium cannot afford to rely on the individual talents of Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard and Dries Mertens if they are to be successful at the World Cup, says Roberto Martinez.
The Red Devils travel to Russia with some of the hottest talent in Europe within their ranks, and consequently are tipped to challenge for the title.Premier League winner De Bruyne completed 18 assists for Manchester City in 2017-18, while Chelsea's Hazard found the back of the net on 12 occasions.
In Italy, Mertens was fifth top scorer with 18 Serie A strikes, while Martinez also has the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Jan Vertonghen and Thibaut Courtois at his disposal.Despite the individual talent throughout Belgium's squad, Martinez – who oversaw Wednesday's 3-0 win over Egypt in Brussels – is keen for them to come together as a group if they are to improve on a quarter-final finish four years ago.
"What is good about this generation is that when they come together they are a group of players that are prepared to work for each other and be a team," the Spaniard told Omnisport prior to the midweek friendly victory.
"I don't think we should look any further than what we can achieve as a team and the team is made by outstanding individuals."But that's probably what we need to work extremely hard in the preparation that we can add all of these individuals to become a strong team without expecting one single player to win a football game because that will never take us to where we want to get."
Martinez will be supported by Thierry Henry at the World Cup, and he believes the former France international has helped develop a winning mentality within the squad. "Thierry has been a fantastic addition to our technical staff," added the former Everton boss.
"To have his experiences he had as a player are invaluable and for someone who has won the World Cup and the European Championships in the middle of a very talented generation but who were the first ones to have the winning feeling around the group which is essential.
"But on top of that you have someone who is passionate about the game, who is obsessed about the game, who uses his experience to the maximum and who is someone who has made a huge contribution so far in the qualifying campaign and is going to be exactly the same at the World Cup."
England 2 Costa Rica 0: Rashford scores stunner in final World Cup warm-up win
A spectacular strike from Marcus Rashford helped England to a 2-0 win over Costa Rica in Thursday's friendly clash at Elland Road.
The Manchester United forward's effort set the Three Lions on their way to victory in their final warm-up match prior to the World Cup, with Danny Welbeck sealing the result with a second-half header.Manager Gareth Southgate made 10 changes to the team that beat Nigeria 2-1 on Saturday, with John Stones the one player to keep his place, while Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold made his debut at right wing-back.
These two teams played out a goalless draw in their final group game at the World Cup in 2014, where Costa Rica went on to reach the quarter-finals, but Rashford made sure there would be no repeat of that result with a stunning goal 13 minutes in – his first for England since last September.It was just reward for a fine first-half performance but England lost some of their rhythm after the break, as Southgate made a number of changes, including handing goalkeeper Nick Pope his first taste of international football.
Substitute Welbeck made certain of the win 14 minutes from time, though, diving to head home Dele Alli's cross, as England earned a vociferous send-off from the Leeds crowd before their opening match in Russia against Tunisia on June 18.
Phil Jones clipped the crossbar with a header but it was Rashford who looked brightest in a positive early spell for England, and it was fitting for him to break the deadlock.Collecting Ruben Loftus-Cheek's pass, Rashford turned into space and unleashed an unstoppable strike from 25 yards out that dipped over Keylor Navas and into the left-hand corner.
Jamie Vardy was denied by a flying Navas from point-blank range as England pressed their advantage, although Jack Butland made a good save to deny Johan Venegas after a rare Costa Rica break.England's pressure resumed after half-time, with Navas palming away a fierce Jordan Henderson strike before the resulting corner saw Harry Maguire's header cleared off the line by Bryan Oviedo.
Both sides made a host of alterations around the hour mark, which included a return to international action for the fit-again Christian Bolanos, while Burnley keeper Pope made his senior England bow in place of Butland.The game seemed set to finish at 1-0 until Welbeck made the most of his first clear opportunity since coming on, stretching to nod in Alli's clever cross from the left for his 16th England goal, potentially giving Southgate more positive selection headaches ahead of the Tunisia clash in Volgograd.
A spectacular strike from Marcus Rashford helped England to a 2-0 win over Costa Rica in Thursday's friendly clash at Elland Road.
The Manchester United forward's effort set the Three Lions on their way to victory in their final warm-up match prior to the World Cup, with Danny Welbeck sealing the result with a second-half header.Manager Gareth Southgate made 10 changes to the team that beat Nigeria 2-1 on Saturday, with John Stones the one player to keep his place, while Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold made his debut at right wing-back.
These two teams played out a goalless draw in their final group game at the World Cup in 2014, where Costa Rica went on to reach the quarter-finals, but Rashford made sure there would be no repeat of that result with a stunning goal 13 minutes in – his first for England since last September.It was just reward for a fine first-half performance but England lost some of their rhythm after the break, as Southgate made a number of changes, including handing goalkeeper Nick Pope his first taste of international football.
Substitute Welbeck made certain of the win 14 minutes from time, though, diving to head home Dele Alli's cross, as England earned a vociferous send-off from the Leeds crowd before their opening match in Russia against Tunisia on June 18.
Phil Jones clipped the crossbar with a header but it was Rashford who looked brightest in a positive early spell for England, and it was fitting for him to break the deadlock.Collecting Ruben Loftus-Cheek's pass, Rashford turned into space and unleashed an unstoppable strike from 25 yards out that dipped over Keylor Navas and into the left-hand corner.
Jamie Vardy was denied by a flying Navas from point-blank range as England pressed their advantage, although Jack Butland made a good save to deny Johan Venegas after a rare Costa Rica break.England's pressure resumed after half-time, with Navas palming away a fierce Jordan Henderson strike before the resulting corner saw Harry Maguire's header cleared off the line by Bryan Oviedo.
Both sides made a host of alterations around the hour mark, which included a return to international action for the fit-again Christian Bolanos, while Burnley keeper Pope made his senior England bow in place of Butland.The game seemed set to finish at 1-0 until Welbeck made the most of his first clear opportunity since coming on, stretching to nod in Alli's clever cross from the left for his 16th England goal, potentially giving Southgate more positive selection headaches ahead of the Tunisia clash in Volgograd.
Enagland lata meh sare hoda place ekakata World Cup eke enna puluwan full team ekama 100% dunnoth
Portugal 3 Algeria 0: Guedes at the double in Ronaldo's 150th outing
Goncalo Guedes impressed with an eye-catching brace in Cristiano Ronaldo's 150th international appearance as Portugal brushed aside Algeria 3-0 in a routine World Cup warm-up.In his first appearance of any kind since Real Madrid's victory in the Champions League final, Ronaldo threatened regularly in his 74 minutes but was forced to take a back seat to the eye-catching Guedes.
The Paris Saint-Germain winger, who is reportedly attracting interest from Premier League side Wolves, netted either side of half-time to give Portugal a timely confidence boost eight days out from their opening Group B clash against Spain.Guedes' brace sandwiched a first international goal for Bruno Fernandes, the 23-year-old heading in a superb Ronaldo cross amid driving rain in the 37th minute.
That, though, was to prove the Madrid man's greatest contribution in his milestone match, with opposition goalkeeper Abdelkader Salhi offering able resistance to the 33-year-old.And while Algeria otherwise offered little in the way of the challenges the European champions can expect to face in Russia, Fernando Santos will be no less relieved to have ended a three-match winless run at just the right time.
Portugal's early command of possession illustrated the gulf in class and the inevitable opener arrived in the 17th minute.Bernardo Silva cleverly nodded William Carvalho's lofted pass into the path of the fast-arriving Guedes, who made no mistake with a simple low finish.
Ronaldo looked likely to double the advantage in quick time when Fernandes released him into the area, but Salhi was quick off his line to divert the left-footed finish.Instead, he turned provider for Fernandes eight minutes before the break, curling a delightful cross in from the left that invited the Sporting midfielder to head home.
Ronaldo remained on the pitch after the interval and could have scored from either of two promising opportunities, only to be denied by the confident Salhi on both occasions.
The mounting chances eventually resulted in a third in the 55th minute as left-back Raphael Guerreiro's measured cross was met by a thumping Guedes header.Frustration would only grow for Ronaldo when he misjudged an acrobatic volley attempt on the hour and that was to prove his final chance at getting on the scoresheet, with Andre Silva introduced in his place with 16 minutes remaining.
Any hint of a rout disappeared with his withdrawal as Portugal appeared content to begin fixing their focus on the all-important clash with Spain on June 15 that will go a long way to shaping Group B.The hosts did have the ball in the net one final time through Joao Mario, only for the VAR to chalk off the goal due to a handball in the lead-up from Guedes.
Goncalo Guedes impressed with an eye-catching brace in Cristiano Ronaldo's 150th international appearance as Portugal brushed aside Algeria 3-0 in a routine World Cup warm-up.In his first appearance of any kind since Real Madrid's victory in the Champions League final, Ronaldo threatened regularly in his 74 minutes but was forced to take a back seat to the eye-catching Guedes.
The Paris Saint-Germain winger, who is reportedly attracting interest from Premier League side Wolves, netted either side of half-time to give Portugal a timely confidence boost eight days out from their opening Group B clash against Spain.Guedes' brace sandwiched a first international goal for Bruno Fernandes, the 23-year-old heading in a superb Ronaldo cross amid driving rain in the 37th minute.
That, though, was to prove the Madrid man's greatest contribution in his milestone match, with opposition goalkeeper Abdelkader Salhi offering able resistance to the 33-year-old.And while Algeria otherwise offered little in the way of the challenges the European champions can expect to face in Russia, Fernando Santos will be no less relieved to have ended a three-match winless run at just the right time.
Portugal's early command of possession illustrated the gulf in class and the inevitable opener arrived in the 17th minute.Bernardo Silva cleverly nodded William Carvalho's lofted pass into the path of the fast-arriving Guedes, who made no mistake with a simple low finish.
Ronaldo looked likely to double the advantage in quick time when Fernandes released him into the area, but Salhi was quick off his line to divert the left-footed finish.Instead, he turned provider for Fernandes eight minutes before the break, curling a delightful cross in from the left that invited the Sporting midfielder to head home.
Ronaldo remained on the pitch after the interval and could have scored from either of two promising opportunities, only to be denied by the confident Salhi on both occasions.
The mounting chances eventually resulted in a third in the 55th minute as left-back Raphael Guerreiro's measured cross was met by a thumping Guedes header.Frustration would only grow for Ronaldo when he misjudged an acrobatic volley attempt on the hour and that was to prove his final chance at getting on the scoresheet, with Andre Silva introduced in his place with 16 minutes remaining.
Any hint of a rout disappeared with his withdrawal as Portugal appeared content to begin fixing their focus on the all-important clash with Spain on June 15 that will go a long way to shaping Group B.The hosts did have the ball in the net one final time through Joao Mario, only for the VAR to chalk off the goal due to a handball in the lead-up from Guedes.
Uruguay 3 Uzbekistan 0: Suarez scores for World Cup-bound hosts
Luis Suarez, Jose Maria Gimenez and Giorgian De Arrascaeta were on target as Uruguay completed their World Cup preparations with a 3-0 win over 10-man Uzbekistan.
Estadio Centenario was a sea of blue for Uruguay's one and only international fixture before the World Cup in Russia, where the South Americans will face Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the hosts in Group A.Suarez, Gimenez and De Arrascaeta ensured two-time world champions Uruguay – who open their campaign against Egypt June 15 – farewelled Montevideo on a winning note courtesy of goals in either half Thursday.
De Arrascaeta put Uruguay ahead in the 32nd minute with a powerful effort from the centre of the penalty area after Edinson Cavani's darting run down the flank and Suarez's flick.Barcelona star Suarez added a second via his 54th-minute penalty following a handball before defender Gimenez sealed the result with a header 17 minutes from the end, while Uzbekistan ended the match with 10 men after Akramjon Komilov's red card for a high boot.
Playing for the first time since March's friendly win against Wales, Oscar Tabarez made two changes to his starting XI – De Arrascaeta, Martin Caceres and Maximiliano Pereira coming in for Diego Laxalt, Cristian Rodriguez and Guillermo Varela.
Uzbekistan came into the clash on the back of five matches without a win and they looked overawed early as Uruguay started on the front foot.While they were the superior side during the opening exchanges, Uruguay never really threatened, and the visitors eventually grew into the game – Uzbekistan enjoying spells of possession in the opposing half.
Uruguay, however, eventually made the breakthrough thanks to De Arrascaeta just past the hour-mark.Eldorbek Suyunov rushed off his line to close down Cavani, who crossed the ball over the goalkeeper's header, and a scramble saw Suarez flick the ball to De Arrascaeta to open the scoring with a thunderous volley.
Suyunov came off his line again in a nervy moment before half-time after a mistake in Uzbekistan's defence and he was lucky not to make contact with Suarez inside the penalty area as Uruguay were unable to capitalise.
Uruguay gave themselves some breathing space eight minutes into the second half when Rustamjon Ashurmatov was penalised for a handball inside the box.Suarez stepped up and coolly converted the penalty, sending the keeper the wrong way for his 51st goal in 98 international appearances.
Atletico Madrid's Gimenez added some gloss to Uruguay's scoreline when he rose highest to head home Carlos Sanchez's corner 19 minutes later.Uzbekistan crumbled during the closing stages – Komilov shown a straight red card for a high boot on Sanchez with 11 minutes remaining.
Luis Suarez, Jose Maria Gimenez and Giorgian De Arrascaeta were on target as Uruguay completed their World Cup preparations with a 3-0 win over 10-man Uzbekistan.
Estadio Centenario was a sea of blue for Uruguay's one and only international fixture before the World Cup in Russia, where the South Americans will face Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the hosts in Group A.Suarez, Gimenez and De Arrascaeta ensured two-time world champions Uruguay – who open their campaign against Egypt June 15 – farewelled Montevideo on a winning note courtesy of goals in either half Thursday.
De Arrascaeta put Uruguay ahead in the 32nd minute with a powerful effort from the centre of the penalty area after Edinson Cavani's darting run down the flank and Suarez's flick.Barcelona star Suarez added a second via his 54th-minute penalty following a handball before defender Gimenez sealed the result with a header 17 minutes from the end, while Uzbekistan ended the match with 10 men after Akramjon Komilov's red card for a high boot.
Playing for the first time since March's friendly win against Wales, Oscar Tabarez made two changes to his starting XI – De Arrascaeta, Martin Caceres and Maximiliano Pereira coming in for Diego Laxalt, Cristian Rodriguez and Guillermo Varela.
Uzbekistan came into the clash on the back of five matches without a win and they looked overawed early as Uruguay started on the front foot.While they were the superior side during the opening exchanges, Uruguay never really threatened, and the visitors eventually grew into the game – Uzbekistan enjoying spells of possession in the opposing half.
Uruguay, however, eventually made the breakthrough thanks to De Arrascaeta just past the hour-mark.Eldorbek Suyunov rushed off his line to close down Cavani, who crossed the ball over the goalkeeper's header, and a scramble saw Suarez flick the ball to De Arrascaeta to open the scoring with a thunderous volley.
Suyunov came off his line again in a nervy moment before half-time after a mistake in Uzbekistan's defence and he was lucky not to make contact with Suarez inside the penalty area as Uruguay were unable to capitalise.
Uruguay gave themselves some breathing space eight minutes into the second half when Rustamjon Ashurmatov was penalised for a handball inside the box.Suarez stepped up and coolly converted the penalty, sending the keeper the wrong way for his 51st goal in 98 international appearances.
Atletico Madrid's Gimenez added some gloss to Uruguay's scoreline when he rose highest to head home Carlos Sanchez's corner 19 minutes later.Uzbekistan crumbled during the closing stages – Komilov shown a straight red card for a high boot on Sanchez with 11 minutes remaining.
Madrid unconcerned as Ronaldo eyes summer exit
The sensational claims that Cristiano Ronaldo is ready to leave Real Madrid have made little impact at the club, and the Blancos are not yet resigned to losing their star.Portuguese daily Record affirmed on Thursday that Ronaldo had made an "irreversible" decision to leave the Bernabeu, a story which Goal has confirmed with sources inside the Champions League winners.
The report states that the Portugal striker is incensed over the failure to follow through on a bumper new contract promised to him in 2017 by president Florentino Perez.
Ronaldo, whose current deal is up in 2021, is said to want wage parity with football's highest earners, Lionel Messi and Neymar, after both stars overtook him with fresh contracts over the past 12 months.Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, Inter and Roma are just some of the sides who could potentially benefit from Ronaldo's exit after nine trophy-laden years in Spain.
Indeed, even in the bask of glory following Champions League final victory over Liverpool in May, the star dropped a big hint over his future."Now we have to enjoy this moment,” Ronaldo told beIN Sports after the game. “In the next few days I will give an answer to the fans that have always been on my side.
"It was very nice to be at Real Madrid, in the coming days I will talk about it more."Madrid, however, are not panicking while Ronaldo prepares for the World Cup with Portugal and will not be brow-beaten into a decision on his future.
Reaction to Record's bombshell has been far more subdued inside the club than in 2017, when Ronaldo's wish to exit came as a huge shock to the Merengue authorities.Sources consulted by Goal insist that this is not the final chapter of a transfer saga that looks set to rumble on throughout the summer, while there are still hopes that the striker will eventually opt to stay for at least another term.
Ronaldo, 33, smashed an amazing 15 goals in 13 Champions League games to lead Madrid to their third straight title, while he also hit 26 La Liga goals in a season that caught fire in 2018 after a difficult end to the previous year.
The sensational claims that Cristiano Ronaldo is ready to leave Real Madrid have made little impact at the club, and the Blancos are not yet resigned to losing their star.Portuguese daily Record affirmed on Thursday that Ronaldo had made an "irreversible" decision to leave the Bernabeu, a story which Goal has confirmed with sources inside the Champions League winners.
The report states that the Portugal striker is incensed over the failure to follow through on a bumper new contract promised to him in 2017 by president Florentino Perez.
Ronaldo, whose current deal is up in 2021, is said to want wage parity with football's highest earners, Lionel Messi and Neymar, after both stars overtook him with fresh contracts over the past 12 months.Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, Inter and Roma are just some of the sides who could potentially benefit from Ronaldo's exit after nine trophy-laden years in Spain.
Indeed, even in the bask of glory following Champions League final victory over Liverpool in May, the star dropped a big hint over his future."Now we have to enjoy this moment,” Ronaldo told beIN Sports after the game. “In the next few days I will give an answer to the fans that have always been on my side.
"It was very nice to be at Real Madrid, in the coming days I will talk about it more."Madrid, however, are not panicking while Ronaldo prepares for the World Cup with Portugal and will not be brow-beaten into a decision on his future.
Reaction to Record's bombshell has been far more subdued inside the club than in 2017, when Ronaldo's wish to exit came as a huge shock to the Merengue authorities.Sources consulted by Goal insist that this is not the final chapter of a transfer saga that looks set to rumble on throughout the summer, while there are still hopes that the striker will eventually opt to stay for at least another term.
Ronaldo, 33, smashed an amazing 15 goals in 13 Champions League games to lead Madrid to their third straight title, while he also hit 26 La Liga goals in a season that caught fire in 2018 after a difficult end to the previous year.
Juventus seal €40m deal for Douglas Costa
Juventus have confirmed the permanent signing of Douglas Costa, who will join the Turin club from Bayern Munich for a fee of €40 million (£35m/$47m). Costa, 27, moved to Juve in 2017 on loan after falling out with the Bayern board and then-coach Carlo Ancelotti over a reduction in playing time.
The Brazil international racked up 47 appearances in all competitions, helping the Old Lady to a seventh consecutive Serie A title and the Coppa Italia while also playing a key role in their trip to the Champions League semi-finals.
And that impressive debut season has been rewarded as the Italian giants chose to exercise the purchase option in the initial loan deal agreed with Die Roten. "Juventus have exercised the option right for the permanent purchase of the player Douglas Costa from Bayern Munchen for a fee of €40m to be paid in two financial years," Juventus revealed on Thursday in a statement.
"The consideration may increase €1m upon the fulfilment of certain conditions over the course of the duration of his contract". Costa is currently preparing with the Brazil national team ahead of this month's World Cup.The Selecao finalise preparations for the finals with a friendly against Austria scheduled for June 10, before opening their campaign against Switzerland a week later in Rostov.
Juventus have confirmed the permanent signing of Douglas Costa, who will join the Turin club from Bayern Munich for a fee of €40 million (£35m/$47m). Costa, 27, moved to Juve in 2017 on loan after falling out with the Bayern board and then-coach Carlo Ancelotti over a reduction in playing time.
The Brazil international racked up 47 appearances in all competitions, helping the Old Lady to a seventh consecutive Serie A title and the Coppa Italia while also playing a key role in their trip to the Champions League semi-finals.
And that impressive debut season has been rewarded as the Italian giants chose to exercise the purchase option in the initial loan deal agreed with Die Roten. "Juventus have exercised the option right for the permanent purchase of the player Douglas Costa from Bayern Munchen for a fee of €40m to be paid in two financial years," Juventus revealed on Thursday in a statement.
"The consideration may increase €1m upon the fulfilment of certain conditions over the course of the duration of his contract". Costa is currently preparing with the Brazil national team ahead of this month's World Cup.The Selecao finalise preparations for the finals with a friendly against Austria scheduled for June 10, before opening their campaign against Switzerland a week later in Rostov.
Pogba would not change £89m Man Utd price tag despite constant pressure
Paul Pogba admits becoming the most expensive player on the planet brought added pressure following an £89 million (£120m) return to Manchester United, but he would not change his price tag.In the summer of 2016, the Red Devils moved to bring a former academy graduate back onto their books after seeing him mature into a global icon at Serie A giants Juventus.
Pogba arrived in England as part of a record-breaking deal and has seen his every move scrutinised in minute detail ever since, with his antics on and off the field dividing opinion and sparking endless debate.
The 25-year-old has since slipped behind the likes of Neymar and Philippe Coutinho on the list of costliest talents in world football, but he insists he was not relieved to see Paris Saint-Germain raise the bar when landing a Brazil international for €222m (£195m/$263m) in 2017.“No, no relief,” Pogba told Bleacher Report.“It's never been a problem for me. I always want the same thing. To be the best. To work.”
Pogba always knew that his transfer record would not stand for long, with asking prices having risen gradually over a number of years before PSG blew the top off the market.“I knew, that's how it is,” added the United midfielder
“Today it's 100m, tomorrow it's 200m, the day after it'll be 300m.“A generation, then a generation, then a generation.“Twenty years ago, how much was the most expensive player? 60m? Now 60m is normal.”
Pogba looks likely to remain firmly under the spotlight, regardless of how the transfer market shifts, and he claims to be ready to embrace a pressure which means more to others than it does himself. “From the inside? No. For myself, no,” he added when asked whether the focus on him has been difficult to handle.“But for everybody else, yes.
“It took me a long time to get used to this. Because they didn't see me with the same eyes.“It was, like, crazy. And I just had to get used to this.”All eyes remain on Pogba at present, with France looking for him to rediscover his very best form heading into a 2018 World Cup campaign which sees them fancied to go far in Russia.
Paul Pogba admits becoming the most expensive player on the planet brought added pressure following an £89 million (£120m) return to Manchester United, but he would not change his price tag.In the summer of 2016, the Red Devils moved to bring a former academy graduate back onto their books after seeing him mature into a global icon at Serie A giants Juventus.
Pogba arrived in England as part of a record-breaking deal and has seen his every move scrutinised in minute detail ever since, with his antics on and off the field dividing opinion and sparking endless debate.
The 25-year-old has since slipped behind the likes of Neymar and Philippe Coutinho on the list of costliest talents in world football, but he insists he was not relieved to see Paris Saint-Germain raise the bar when landing a Brazil international for €222m (£195m/$263m) in 2017.“No, no relief,” Pogba told Bleacher Report.“It's never been a problem for me. I always want the same thing. To be the best. To work.”
Pogba always knew that his transfer record would not stand for long, with asking prices having risen gradually over a number of years before PSG blew the top off the market.“I knew, that's how it is,” added the United midfielder
“Today it's 100m, tomorrow it's 200m, the day after it'll be 300m.“A generation, then a generation, then a generation.“Twenty years ago, how much was the most expensive player? 60m? Now 60m is normal.”
Pogba looks likely to remain firmly under the spotlight, regardless of how the transfer market shifts, and he claims to be ready to embrace a pressure which means more to others than it does himself. “From the inside? No. For myself, no,” he added when asked whether the focus on him has been difficult to handle.“But for everybody else, yes.
“It took me a long time to get used to this. Because they didn't see me with the same eyes.“It was, like, crazy. And I just had to get used to this.”All eyes remain on Pogba at present, with France looking for him to rediscover his very best form heading into a 2018 World Cup campaign which sees them fancied to go far in Russia.
Lenglet closing in on €35m Barcelona move
Sevilla centre-back Clement Lenglet is closing in on a €35 million (£31m/$41m) switch to Barcelona, Goal understands.The Frenchman has long been linked with the Catalan club but a deal seems to be growing closer to fruition as contract talks with his current employers broke down.Manchester United had also been associated with the player, but it is the Camp Nou side who appear poised to secure his future.
Sevilla had hoped that improved terms with have seen him reject the advances of Barca and, after speaking time in both Dubai and Chantilly, he was in the Spanish city to hold discussions.Last Wednesday, he met head coach Pablo Machin and manager Joaquin Caparros, who explained they were prepared to pay him the highest wage in the team. No deal was concluded, however.
Sources close to Lenglet have revealed that nothing, officially, he has been decided. The 22-year-old has told his coaches that his decision will be final and that no improved offer will change his mind. Sevilla seem pessimistic over a deal and have already started looking for new centre-backs, with Florian Lejeune of Newcastle and Gianmarco Ferrari of Sampdoria on their shortlist.
Meanwhile, Barcelona are playing it cool over the deal but will not be drawn into passing comment.Regardless, due to Financial Fair Play implications, they will be unable to sign the defender until July 1.
Barca are poised to pay Lenglet’s release clause of €35m to seal the deal, which is liable to take place in the first week of July.
Sevilla centre-back Clement Lenglet is closing in on a €35 million (£31m/$41m) switch to Barcelona, Goal understands.The Frenchman has long been linked with the Catalan club but a deal seems to be growing closer to fruition as contract talks with his current employers broke down.Manchester United had also been associated with the player, but it is the Camp Nou side who appear poised to secure his future.
Sevilla had hoped that improved terms with have seen him reject the advances of Barca and, after speaking time in both Dubai and Chantilly, he was in the Spanish city to hold discussions.Last Wednesday, he met head coach Pablo Machin and manager Joaquin Caparros, who explained they were prepared to pay him the highest wage in the team. No deal was concluded, however.
Sources close to Lenglet have revealed that nothing, officially, he has been decided. The 22-year-old has told his coaches that his decision will be final and that no improved offer will change his mind. Sevilla seem pessimistic over a deal and have already started looking for new centre-backs, with Florian Lejeune of Newcastle and Gianmarco Ferrari of Sampdoria on their shortlist.
Meanwhile, Barcelona are playing it cool over the deal but will not be drawn into passing comment.Regardless, due to Financial Fair Play implications, they will be unable to sign the defender until July 1.
Barca are poised to pay Lenglet’s release clause of €35m to seal the deal, which is liable to take place in the first week of July.
Icardi the ideal Lewandowski successor at Bayern - Toni
Bayern Munich should sell Robert Lewandowski and buy Inter star Mauro Icardi to replace him, according to former striker Luca Toni.
Lewandowski's agent said last month that the Poland international "needs a change and a new challenge in his career", possibly paving the way for a move to Real Madrid.The European champions have been credited with an interest in the Bundesliga's runaway top scorer, though Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has denied claims the clubs have discussed him in recent meetings.
The possibility of Lewandowski leaving the Bavarian outfit has raised some concerns over who should replace him, but the solution is a simple one for ex-Bayern and Italy forward Toni.The 41-year-old sees no reason for Bayern to hold Lewandowski back if he wants to go, telling Sport Bild: "If a player wants to go, you should let him go."
And the former Juventus No.9 is confident that a suitable successor is already lying in wait, with Icardi being linked with a move away from Inter again after his 29-goal season in Serie A. "Mauro Icardi from Inter would be perfect for Bayern, he is very strong and younger," he said of the 25-year-old.
Icardi himself has said his future depends on Inter's situation, stating he is willing to leave if it is in the best interests in the club."If it's good for the team that I stay, then I'll stay, otherwise I will leave," he said. "I always do what is best for the club and the team. When the season ends, we'll talk to the club and see what is best for them."
Icardi's agent and wife said last month that many clubs are willing to match the forward's release clause in the next transfer market, while coach Luciano Spalletti admitted his side may be unable to prevent him from leaving in the near future.
Bayern Munich should sell Robert Lewandowski and buy Inter star Mauro Icardi to replace him, according to former striker Luca Toni.
Lewandowski's agent said last month that the Poland international "needs a change and a new challenge in his career", possibly paving the way for a move to Real Madrid.The European champions have been credited with an interest in the Bundesliga's runaway top scorer, though Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has denied claims the clubs have discussed him in recent meetings.
The possibility of Lewandowski leaving the Bavarian outfit has raised some concerns over who should replace him, but the solution is a simple one for ex-Bayern and Italy forward Toni.The 41-year-old sees no reason for Bayern to hold Lewandowski back if he wants to go, telling Sport Bild: "If a player wants to go, you should let him go."
And the former Juventus No.9 is confident that a suitable successor is already lying in wait, with Icardi being linked with a move away from Inter again after his 29-goal season in Serie A. "Mauro Icardi from Inter would be perfect for Bayern, he is very strong and younger," he said of the 25-year-old.
Icardi himself has said his future depends on Inter's situation, stating he is willing to leave if it is in the best interests in the club."If it's good for the team that I stay, then I'll stay, otherwise I will leave," he said. "I always do what is best for the club and the team. When the season ends, we'll talk to the club and see what is best for them."
Icardi's agent and wife said last month that many clubs are willing to match the forward's release clause in the next transfer market, while coach Luciano Spalletti admitted his side may be unable to prevent him from leaving in the near future.
Portugal still far from ideal ahead of World Cup, says Santos
Portugal head coach Fernando Santos said the European champions have plenty of room for improvement heading into the World Cup following their 3-0 win over Algeria .Cristiano Ronaldo returned as Portugal prepared for the Russia showpiece with a routine victory against Algeria thanks to Goncalo Guedes' brace Thursday.
Guedes produced an eye-catching performance with goals either side of half-time to give Portugal a boost ahead of their Group B opener against Spain in Sochi June 15.
"We are still far from ideal, it is with the championship that we will grow," Santos said in Lisbon post-match."There are some things to fine-tune, there are players who are playing for the first time together in this selection."Paris Saint-Germain winger Guedes – who spent the season on loan at Valencia – upstaged Ronaldo in his 150th international appearance.
Bruno Fernando also opened his account for Portugal in the first half as Santos' men ended their three-match winless run."There were good things, but there are things to improve," Santos added. "In the first 20 or 25 minutes the team were good, compact and quick to react to the ball.
"If their strikers did not shine, it's a lot of merit for my team. We made a goal in that period and we could have done more.
"Thereafter we slowed down, but then we got back to normal, there were spaces to make goals and we did."
Santos continued: "You cannot draw any conclusions from this game. Obviously we are getting closer to the starting XI, but the most important thing is to feel that I have 23 players prepared to compete."
Portugal head coach Fernando Santos said the European champions have plenty of room for improvement heading into the World Cup following their 3-0 win over Algeria .Cristiano Ronaldo returned as Portugal prepared for the Russia showpiece with a routine victory against Algeria thanks to Goncalo Guedes' brace Thursday.
Guedes produced an eye-catching performance with goals either side of half-time to give Portugal a boost ahead of their Group B opener against Spain in Sochi June 15.
"We are still far from ideal, it is with the championship that we will grow," Santos said in Lisbon post-match."There are some things to fine-tune, there are players who are playing for the first time together in this selection."Paris Saint-Germain winger Guedes – who spent the season on loan at Valencia – upstaged Ronaldo in his 150th international appearance.
Bruno Fernando also opened his account for Portugal in the first half as Santos' men ended their three-match winless run."There were good things, but there are things to improve," Santos added. "In the first 20 or 25 minutes the team were good, compact and quick to react to the ball.
"If their strikers did not shine, it's a lot of merit for my team. We made a goal in that period and we could have done more.
"Thereafter we slowed down, but then we got back to normal, there were spaces to make goals and we did."
Santos continued: "You cannot draw any conclusions from this game. Obviously we are getting closer to the starting XI, but the most important thing is to feel that I have 23 players prepared to compete."
Pedro addresses Chelsea exit talk after tough season and World Cup snub
Pedro maintains that he is likely to stay at Chelsea this summer despite seeing a frustrating period cost him a shot at a place in Spain’s World Cup squad.
The Blues were considered to have pulled off quite the coup when luring a hard-working forward away from Barcelona in 2015.The 30-year-old has tasted Premier League and FA Cup success during his time at Stamford Bridge, netting 28 goals, but he has struggled for regular starts of late.
That lack of continuity in his game ultimately saw Pedro – a world champion in 2010 – overlooked by Spain when piecing together their plans for Russia 2018, but he is nevertheless under contract in west London until 2019 and has no intention of pushing for a move elsewhere.Pedro told Cadena SER : "Obviously I have a contract at Chelsea and most likely I will stay. I'm good here," he said.
"I'm very comfortable with my team-mates and, in football terms I'm very happy for having won the Premier League and the FA Cup in three years. I'm happy because it's always difficult to win trophies in England. "I'm enjoying my holidays right now, getting some rest and spending time with family, and then start the new season in the best way."
Pedro will be forced to watch on from afar this summer as Spain go in search of global glory once more, but he has no complaints at being snubbed by Julen Lopetegui in favour of other attacking options.
He added: "It was difficult and very unlikely because of how the season had gone.
“I think he was right in that decision. I have appeared less for the team this year and evidently the best players have to go at all times.”
Pedro maintains that he is likely to stay at Chelsea this summer despite seeing a frustrating period cost him a shot at a place in Spain’s World Cup squad.
The Blues were considered to have pulled off quite the coup when luring a hard-working forward away from Barcelona in 2015.The 30-year-old has tasted Premier League and FA Cup success during his time at Stamford Bridge, netting 28 goals, but he has struggled for regular starts of late.
That lack of continuity in his game ultimately saw Pedro – a world champion in 2010 – overlooked by Spain when piecing together their plans for Russia 2018, but he is nevertheless under contract in west London until 2019 and has no intention of pushing for a move elsewhere.Pedro told Cadena SER : "Obviously I have a contract at Chelsea and most likely I will stay. I'm good here," he said.
"I'm very comfortable with my team-mates and, in football terms I'm very happy for having won the Premier League and the FA Cup in three years. I'm happy because it's always difficult to win trophies in England. "I'm enjoying my holidays right now, getting some rest and spending time with family, and then start the new season in the best way."
Pedro will be forced to watch on from afar this summer as Spain go in search of global glory once more, but he has no complaints at being snubbed by Julen Lopetegui in favour of other attacking options.
He added: "It was difficult and very unlikely because of how the season had gone.
“I think he was right in that decision. I have appeared less for the team this year and evidently the best players have to go at all times.”
Liverpool hoping to wrap up £60m Fekir deal before World Cup
Liverpool are looking to clinch the £60 million (€68m/$80m) signing of Nabil Fekir before he heads off to the World Cup with France.The Lyon captain is the Reds’ primary target as they seek to add creativity to their attacking midfield options.
Progress over a deal has been slow, with Jean-Michel Aulas, the French club’s president, stating on Thursday that he felt the move would not be completed until after the World Cup .
Despite this, Goal understands Liverpool believe a deal can be thrashed out before Fekir flies to Russia with his national team this weekend.Fekir is understood to be keen to move to Merseyside, and there is an acceptance at Lyon that he will be leaving the club this summer.
Lyon's hope that some strong performances at the World Cup might trigger a bidding war, or a significant increase in Fekir’s valuation, are offset by the player’s desire to link up with Jurgen Klopp and his squad.
Liverpool are mindful of the dangers of letting the situation drag on throughout the summer, especially given the possibility of France going deep in the tournament.Klopp is keen to have the bulk of the club’s key transfer business done by the time his squad reconvene for pre-season training at Melwood in early July.
Chelsea have tracked Fekir extensively over the past 12 months, but their failure to secure Champions League football for next season, as well as the current state of flux concerning the management situation at Stamford Bridge, means they have been bypassed by Liverpool.The Reds see the 24-year-old as a replacement for Philippe Coutinho, capable of playing as an attacking central midfielder or, if needed, as part of the forward line.
Aulas’ comments had cast doubt over the deal, with the notoriously difficult 69-year-old telling Lyon’s official website: "The record is at a standstill, there is no way forward. The record will certainly not close during the World Cup and I do not think there is any change before the World Cup.”He added: “[We] have not set a base price because we have not discussed this yet."
Despite this, Goal understands negotiations have moved on this week, with Liverpool closing in on a deal which would make all parties happy. Sporting director Michael Edwards has been leading negotiations and feels a breakthrough has been made.Fekir is set to play for France on Saturday evening against the USA, a game that will take place in Lyon’s Stade des Lumieres. Liverpool's medical staff have been on standby this week and a deal could be completed in next 48 hours.
Meanwhile, the Reds have interest in Nigerian winger Moses Simon , who is entering the final year of his contract at Belgian club Gent. The 22-year-old is seen as one for the future, a pacy, direct player who can operate on both flanks. It is unlikely, at this stage, that he would be considered a starter were he to sign.
Stoke City’s Xherdan Shaqiri has also been linked, with reports suggesting the Swiss star could be available for around £12m (€14m/$16m) following the Potters’ relegation. Liverpool have already signed midfielder Fabinho from Monaco in a £40m €45m/$54m) deal , while Naby Keita will join from RB Leipzig on July 1.
The Reds loaned out young midfielder Ovie Ejaria to Rangers on Thursday , while Goal understands they have no interest in signing Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy.
Liverpool are looking to clinch the £60 million (€68m/$80m) signing of Nabil Fekir before he heads off to the World Cup with France.The Lyon captain is the Reds’ primary target as they seek to add creativity to their attacking midfield options.
Progress over a deal has been slow, with Jean-Michel Aulas, the French club’s president, stating on Thursday that he felt the move would not be completed until after the World Cup .
Despite this, Goal understands Liverpool believe a deal can be thrashed out before Fekir flies to Russia with his national team this weekend.Fekir is understood to be keen to move to Merseyside, and there is an acceptance at Lyon that he will be leaving the club this summer.
Lyon's hope that some strong performances at the World Cup might trigger a bidding war, or a significant increase in Fekir’s valuation, are offset by the player’s desire to link up with Jurgen Klopp and his squad.
Liverpool are mindful of the dangers of letting the situation drag on throughout the summer, especially given the possibility of France going deep in the tournament.Klopp is keen to have the bulk of the club’s key transfer business done by the time his squad reconvene for pre-season training at Melwood in early July.
Chelsea have tracked Fekir extensively over the past 12 months, but their failure to secure Champions League football for next season, as well as the current state of flux concerning the management situation at Stamford Bridge, means they have been bypassed by Liverpool.The Reds see the 24-year-old as a replacement for Philippe Coutinho, capable of playing as an attacking central midfielder or, if needed, as part of the forward line.
Aulas’ comments had cast doubt over the deal, with the notoriously difficult 69-year-old telling Lyon’s official website: "The record is at a standstill, there is no way forward. The record will certainly not close during the World Cup and I do not think there is any change before the World Cup.”He added: “[We] have not set a base price because we have not discussed this yet."
Despite this, Goal understands negotiations have moved on this week, with Liverpool closing in on a deal which would make all parties happy. Sporting director Michael Edwards has been leading negotiations and feels a breakthrough has been made.Fekir is set to play for France on Saturday evening against the USA, a game that will take place in Lyon’s Stade des Lumieres. Liverpool's medical staff have been on standby this week and a deal could be completed in next 48 hours.
Meanwhile, the Reds have interest in Nigerian winger Moses Simon , who is entering the final year of his contract at Belgian club Gent. The 22-year-old is seen as one for the future, a pacy, direct player who can operate on both flanks. It is unlikely, at this stage, that he would be considered a starter were he to sign.
Stoke City’s Xherdan Shaqiri has also been linked, with reports suggesting the Swiss star could be available for around £12m (€14m/$16m) following the Potters’ relegation. Liverpool have already signed midfielder Fabinho from Monaco in a £40m €45m/$54m) deal , while Naby Keita will join from RB Leipzig on July 1.
The Reds loaned out young midfielder Ovie Ejaria to Rangers on Thursday , while Goal understands they have no interest in signing Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy.
Kane signs new Tottenham deal until 2024
Harry Kane has signed a new six-year contract at Tottenham to stay until 2024, the Premier League club have confirmed.
Kane has developed into one of the world's finest strikers in north London, and will captain England at the 2018 World Cup after scoring 41 goals in just 48 appearances in all competitions this season.The new deal means that the 24-year-old will lead the club into their new stadium, which is set to open at the beginning of the 2018-19 season.
In total, Kane has racked up 213 appearances for Spurs, and has scored 140 goals, and it has been widely reported that his new deal has broken the club's previously watertight wage structure.Indeed, Kane signed a new contract in 2016 and was said to be earning £100,000 per week, though these terms are thought to have doubled his earnings, while also putting him on the longest contract in the Premier League.
The prolific striker follows manager Mauricio Pochettino in committing his future to Spurs, who finished third in the Premier League last term. Pochettino shunned the reported advances of Real Madrid to pen terms on a new five-year contract in late May, becoming one of the highest-paid managers in the Premier League in the process.
Kane and Pochettino's relationship has blossomed since the Argentine took over at White Hart Lane, the manager taking Spurs to three consecutive top-four finishes and two title challenges, with Kane as the focal point of his side.And the partnership will now continue, despite previous calls for Kane to leave Spurs and look to forge a path elsewhere.
Former Spurs striker Roman Pavlyuchenko echoed such calls earlier this week, telling the England star to leave if Real or Barcelona were to show interest in securing his services.“If Barcelona and Real Madrid call him, then yes, he has to go,” Pavlyuchenko told Goal. “But if it's to join a team that occupies the middle of the table in Spain or Italy, it's not worth it.
“But, he must first know what he wants. It is certain that, if Barca and Real are present, then it's normal to want to go there."Instead, Kane is set to continue on his path at Spurs, having previously aired his desire to break Alan Shearer's record of 260 Premier League goals. Kane, thus far, has netted 108 strikes.
Kane is currently sixth in Tottenham's all-time top scorers list, sitting just three behind fifth-placed Jermain Defoe. He needs 126 more goals to break Jimmy Greaves' record of 266.
Harry Kane has signed a new six-year contract at Tottenham to stay until 2024, the Premier League club have confirmed.
Kane has developed into one of the world's finest strikers in north London, and will captain England at the 2018 World Cup after scoring 41 goals in just 48 appearances in all competitions this season.The new deal means that the 24-year-old will lead the club into their new stadium, which is set to open at the beginning of the 2018-19 season.
In total, Kane has racked up 213 appearances for Spurs, and has scored 140 goals, and it has been widely reported that his new deal has broken the club's previously watertight wage structure.Indeed, Kane signed a new contract in 2016 and was said to be earning £100,000 per week, though these terms are thought to have doubled his earnings, while also putting him on the longest contract in the Premier League.
The prolific striker follows manager Mauricio Pochettino in committing his future to Spurs, who finished third in the Premier League last term. Pochettino shunned the reported advances of Real Madrid to pen terms on a new five-year contract in late May, becoming one of the highest-paid managers in the Premier League in the process.
Kane and Pochettino's relationship has blossomed since the Argentine took over at White Hart Lane, the manager taking Spurs to three consecutive top-four finishes and two title challenges, with Kane as the focal point of his side.And the partnership will now continue, despite previous calls for Kane to leave Spurs and look to forge a path elsewhere.
Former Spurs striker Roman Pavlyuchenko echoed such calls earlier this week, telling the England star to leave if Real or Barcelona were to show interest in securing his services.“If Barcelona and Real Madrid call him, then yes, he has to go,” Pavlyuchenko told Goal. “But if it's to join a team that occupies the middle of the table in Spain or Italy, it's not worth it.
“But, he must first know what he wants. It is certain that, if Barca and Real are present, then it's normal to want to go there."Instead, Kane is set to continue on his path at Spurs, having previously aired his desire to break Alan Shearer's record of 260 Premier League goals. Kane, thus far, has netted 108 strikes.
Kane is currently sixth in Tottenham's all-time top scorers list, sitting just three behind fifth-placed Jermain Defoe. He needs 126 more goals to break Jimmy Greaves' record of 266.
