The most truly effective stories making Tuesday's back pages in the UK... The Sun: Andre Villas-Boas and Sam Allardyce both praised Gareth Bale as top notch last week. Also: Nani has been offered a take-it-or-leave-it offer on a new agreement at Manchester United. Daily Mirror: Gareth Bale smashed home another wonder attack to carry Tottenham into third place in the Premier League. Another stunning show was produced by daily Star: Gareth Bale to fire Spurs into third place last week. Everyday Mail: Rafa Benitez was engaged in an exercise ground bust-up with Chelsea's shell-shocked group yesterday. Also: John Toshack proved that Swansea director Michael Laudrup is just a top choice to achieve success Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid. Daily Express: Gareth Bale yesterday evening struck a sensational last-minute goal to snatch victory for Tottenham. Gareth Bale was held by metro: Sam Allardyce up as a one-man army yesterday following the Welshmanas impressive show earned Tottenham a dramatic win at West Ham. Everyday Telegraph: Gareth Bale hit one of the objectives of the season as Tottenham beat West Ham to decide one of the games of the season last week. The Times: Gareth Bale hit twice as Tottenham moved in to third place in the Premier League following a 3-2 victory over West Ham at Upton Park. The Guardian: Michael Laudrup has said he's flattered to be connected with a go back to Real Madrid but wants to honor his Swansea City contract and stay with the League Cup winners next year. The Independent: Gareth Bale said he had setup the North London derby completely after producing another of his trademark amazing moves to fire Tottenham into third devote the Premier League.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Manchester United starlet Andreas Pereira scores brilliant free-kick ...
In October we brought you footage of Andreas Pereira scoring a fine free-kick for Manchester United U18s against Loughborough University.
Pereira is a highly-rated Belgian midfielder with a right foot that could well invite comparisons with Manchester United legend David Beckham if he keeps tucking home free-kicks.
The 17-year-old has impressed for Manchester United's youth teams since joining from PSV and could well be in line to break into Sir Alex Ferguson's first team squad over the next couple of campaigns.
On Wednesday, the Belgium Under-17 side drew 1-1 with Norway and it was Manchester United starlet Andreas Pereira that notched from a delightful free-kick.
More Info: Dinamo Zagreb - NK Slaven Koprivnica [Live Football]
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Birmingham City boss Roberto Mancini offers as a result of confident Pope... - Victoria Times Colonist
Birmingham, England - Clawing straight back a massive deficit in the Premier League title competition has not been the thing on Roberto Mancini's head. The Manchester City manager made the unusual move of beginning his post-match news conference on Sunday after a 2-0 triumph over Chelsea by thanking outgoing Pope Benedict XVI for his ten years of service. Hours earlier, Benedict had presented his final Sunday blessing of his pontificate on a cheering audience in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican. On Thursday, he will end up being the first pope to have resigned from the papacy in 600 years. "For us, it's the past Sunday for our pope and I would want to say thank you to this pope for what he did in ten years," Mancini said. Mancini, a, visited the holy village of Medjugorje in Bosnia during the run-in to last season's category subject, which City won on the final time. Area is 12 factors behind Manchester United with 11 activities staying in 2010. A Copyright 2013
McCall shares up Strettle England claims - Fulham Chronicle
Saracens manager of rugby Mark McCall pressed David Strettle's claims for an England recall following the winger's outstanding performance in a sensational Aviva Premiership gain at Leicester. Strettle won two of his side's four second-half tries as Saracens made a 17-6 half-time deficit right into a 32-27 victory - their next on the trot at Welford Road - to stay in second place. McCall thinks Strettle is ready to step in if England prefer to remember him for his or her next RBS 6 Nations battle against Italy. "He is really on kind at the moment," McCall said. "He has had a great 2 or 3 weeks around, he is in the EPS team and is among the type wingers. They know what he can do." Winger James Short and full-back Chris Wyles won the other second-half tries while points were kicked 12 by fly-half Charlie Hodgson. Leicester dominated the very first half and scored attempts through Julian Salvi and Dan Bowden but were totally outplayed following the interval before launching a grandstand finish which resulted in a penalty take to and a card for Strettle. McCall said: "It was a casino game of two halves, we did not arrive in the very first and at 17-3 down prior to half-time we had a mountain to climb, particularly being at Welford Road. "Leicester were on form at that point and we did very well to show it round in the 2nd half. We were normal in anything we did in the initial half, we lost plenty of collisions and did not do what exactly we normally do. "The dressing room was relaxed at half-time and the participants said we needed to be definitely better in the second half and we were." Leicester have experienced a miserable nine days, having dropped to champions Harlequins a week ago, and experienced for having a weaker seat than Saracens due to dropping a host of players to the Six Nations. Manager of rugby Richard Cockerill admitted he was down seriously to the bare bones but had no claims and recognized Saracens for his or her second-half fightback. He said: "We controlled industry position and the overall game in the first half. And the score reflected that. In the 2nd half it was an entire role reversal and you have to give credit to Saracens. They put us under pressure and played well and we could not deal with it."
Via: Eintracht Frankfurt - Borussia Mönchengladbach [Live Football]
Monday, February 25, 2013
Barcelona vs. Real Madrid: The Copa del Rey Clasico is the one ...
Bitter rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid do battle on Tuesday for a spot in the Copa del Rey final. It's the first of two editions of El Clasico in one week, with the second coming in La Liga this weekend.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Bryant outscores Nowitzki as Lakers top Mavs
Houston (AP) a Kobe Bryant had 38 points to get a rating duel with Dirk Nowitzki, and the La Lakers beat the Dallas Mavericks 103-99 Sunday in a game of groups fighting to obtain in the playoff race. With chants of MVP from a contingent of Lakers supporters, Bryant won 14 in the fourth, including seven in the ultimate three minutes to put up off a lively Dallas effort. Nowitzki concluded with 30 points and 13 rebounds for the Mavericks, who had to be able to draw practically even with the Lakers for ninth place in the Western Conference. Houston is in eighth, with a support of several activities. Bryant, who also had 12 rebounds and seven assists, was playing in Mark Cuban's building two days after the frank Dallas operator suggested in a interview that the Lakers may need to consider dumping the five-time NBA champion through the amnesty offer. David Nash had 13 of his 20 in the second half against his former team in a casino game that neither team led by more than six. The Lakers went up 94-90 with three free throws after O.J. Mayo was needed a foul and a technical on a drive by Bryant. It absolutely was Mayo's fifth foul, and he jumped around quite following the contact. Nash made the technological free throw before Bryant's set. Nowitzki was called for a technical early in the day in the fraction after when he missed a shot during a series with Metta World Peace a similar screen. Bryant scored again from just in the arc for a lead, and Nash answered Mayo's first 3-pointer of the game along with his third from long range in the next half for a 99-95 lead. Bryant achieved it again in the final second after Nowitzki missed a free throw on a potential three-point play, reaching a for a 101-97 lead. Nowitzki scored to ensure it is a two-point sport, and World Peace missed a free throw to give Dallas a chance to tie. Mayo missed a with about 5 seconds left. Dwight Howard concluded with seven points and 13 rebounds and had three large free throws in the fourth. Bryant had already wear a show of shooting, driving and shot-blocking when he took over early in the fourth, but Nowitzki and the Mavericks kept answering. Bryant won on three straight possessions with Jae Crowder protecting him and had the ball again the last time down when Nowitzki went up to help. Bryant's pass was intercepted by Vince Carter, and Mike James fed Nowitzki for a and a 90-87 Dallas lead. Nowitzki and Bryant each won 16 in the initial half, which concluded in a tie, and kept it up in third quarter, concluding that time with 24 apiece. The Lakers had the biggest lead at six a' several times a and the Mavericks erased each one of these through three quarters. Nowitzki's 3-pointer from the top of the key late in the third created him 4 of 4 from long range and capped a 7-0 work for a 71-70 Dallas cause, but Bryant won twice on drives following a timeout to place the Lakers in-front again. In the initial half, Nowitzki made both 3-pointers and all free throws, was 5 of 8 from the floor and led everybody with seven boards. Bryant, meanwhile, was three of 4 from long range, including a pair from effectively behind the arc, but only 1 of 6 in the line. He'd a game-high six allows before halftime. NOTES: Bryant got a complex in the very first quarter when he gestured at umpire Ken Mauer after Darren Collison stole basketball. It absolutely was his league-leading 13th technical a' one ahead of DeMarcus Cousins of Sacramento. A one-game suspension is to be able whenever a person reaches 16 technicals. ... The game was entered by mavericks C Chris Kaman in the 2nd quarter after lost 10 straight games with a concussion. ... Points were scored at least 30 by the Mavericks in the first quarter for the sixth time in six games.
Manchester City vs. Chelsea: Final report 2-0, City defeat woeful...
After a penalty was missed by Frank Lampard a deserved defeat was handed out by manchester City to Chelsea with objectives from Yaya Toure and Carlos Tevez. After Frank Lampard missed a penalty, a narrow victory was pulled off by manchester City against Chelsea thanks to goals from Yaya Toure and Carlos Tevez. A typical refrain from sets of rival fans had been a desire for both groups to somehow eliminate, and it appeared that was what each side was wanting to achieve in a serious first half replete with bad play and mistakes from both sides. Manchester City centered, but could not change their odds, Sergio Aguero probably the most responsible after getting clear due to an awful combined mistake from Chelsea's defense, but dawdling over his opportunity and letting Cech to recoup. Pablo Zabaleta also had a great possibility to report at the end of the first half, but fired his shot in to the head of Gary Cahill after having a bouncng baseball landed nicely for him at the edge of the area. After half-time, their dominance was resumed by Manchester City, and a neat cause of passing led to Sergio Aguero having an with an overhead kick, but he couldn't connect easily and missed the chance. Only afterwards, against the work of play, Chelsea had the opportunity to put themselves forward after Joe Hart cleaned out Demba Ba after the Senegalese forward broke in to the field. Joe Lampard moved as much as score his 200th goal for the membership, but Hart atoned for his error by making a fine save yourself to keep the experienced midfielder out. Late on, Carlos Tevez made the win, picking up the ball on the side of the region, and the striker was permitted to pick his place and break a fine effort into the top part that remaining Petr Cech with little opportunity. It was a goal, but woeful protecting from Chelsea was yet again culpable, letting Aguero to make his work to set the goal up and not putting Tevez under any pressure as the trigger was pulled by him. Sergio Aguero was handed another opportunity to put the hosts ahead after ward after getting away from the dozing Chelsea backline, but his attempted processor after Cech came racing out of his purpose didn't drop underneath the bar, and it appeared City weren't likely to locate a breakthrough. Then, nevertheless, Yaya Toure walked up. It was his power and push from midfield while he was at the Africa Cup of Nations that the Citizens had missed most, but he showed nice research and finesse here, dancing his way into the field before trimming a fine curled finish into the far corner. In the end, a defeat for Chelsea, who have been the worse of two bad sides. They're now in a real struggle to be eligible for next periods Champions League, while City have held their ever-fainter subject hopes alive - at minimum, they must see themselves avoid the struggle with Arsenal and Tottenham which their opponents now find themselves stuck in. Follow @SBNationSoccer on Twitter
Like SB Country Football on Facebook a City and Newcastle champions on Sunday a All roads result in Milan in Italy a, Madrid both winners in La Liga a of the League Cup final a Champions League is changing
More Info: SV Ried - FC Austria Wien [Live Football]
Guy City v Chelsea|Swansea v Bradford|Odds|Bet365...
Have the CaughtOffside iPad software. Acquire the #1 Free Sports Application from the App Shop. All the latest footie media and much, much more. Its a Sunday with Man City v Chelsea & Swansea Bradford in the Capital One Cup Final with Bet365 releasing the latest possibilities and free bets on all of the matchups. Chelsea and Manchester City lock horns at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League on Sunday morning in what is perhaps the biggest game that the weekend provides in the most effective flight. With the seasonsa those two experienced up to now, it would be simple to forget this is just a fight between the Champions of England and the Champions of Europe. Bet365 have announced they will provide free bets worth A200/a200 to brand new clients to spend on any game on Sunday, including Man City v Chelsea, Swansea v Bradford! Special to CaughtOffside a' claim here! Town could possibly be 15 details adrift of Manchester United by the time this 1 gets underway and Chelsea failed out of the Champions League in the group phases, so it's safe to say they havenat built a much of a challenge to retain their titles. However, that's not to imply that they have nothing to play for this strategy as these two look like fighting it out for second place. At the moment, there are four points between those two clubs and if the away side were to come out on top, there will be substantial force on Mancinias men. Mancini is sure to be confident his staff can come out on top as Manchester United are the only club to come and take the spoils from the Etihad in the league this plan, are they're on home soil nevertheless. His side have been set by the Italian the problem of earning their ultimate 12 top flight suits if they accomplish that, they still have an opportunity of the concept as he feels. Without success in three league games though, they have to show their type around easily and be at their absolute best to beat a team of Chelseaas quality. Their chances of winning the title are rated at 18/1 and those chances may possibly shorten with a success of home soil, that will be available at evens. When Manchester City are on top of their game, the Etihad is usually rocking, therefore Mancini is going to be longing for an earlier goal and an easy start from his men For Chelsea, their campaign could be defined by this game in the Premier League. Although a win makes them challengers for the runner-up place, a defeat is likely to leave them in a scrap for fourth place. Lots of people might seem at Chelseaas time and think they've nothing to perform for in the group, but that's not even close to the case and if Rafael Benitez produces second place, in addition to the Europa League and FA Cup titles, fans would certainly be happy. Benitez hasnat been a favorite man since his arrival at Stamford Bridge and he may indeed need this 1 big win to convince some supporters he's the right man for the work There is no harder place to simply take and come points than at Manchester City, so there will be no better place for Chelsea to win and they are at 10/3 here. Both groups have no real choice but to attack here and a draw wouldnat actually match either of these. With the attacking players on show and the type of basketball those two are designed for playing, it must be a great game on Sunday afternoon that gets underway at 1.30PM.
Man City v Chelsea | Swansea v Bradford | Odds | Bet365 ...
Its a bumper Sunday with Man City v Chelsea & Swansea Bradford in the Capital One Cup Final with Bet365 releasing the latest odds and free bets on all the matchups.
Manchester City and Chelsea lock horns at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon in what is arguably the biggest game that the weekend has to offer in the top flight.
With the seasons' these two have had so far, it would be easy to forget that this is a battle between the Champions of England and the Champions of Europe.
Bet365 have announced they will offer free bets worth £200/€200 to all new customers to spend on any game on Sunday, including Man City v Chelsea, Swansea v Bradford! Exclusive to CaughtOffside – claim here!
City could be 15 points adrift of Manchester United by the time this one gets underway and Chelsea crashed out of the Champions League in the group stages, so it is safe to say they haven't made a much of a challenge to retain their titles.
However, that is not to say that they have nothing to play for this campaign as these two look like fighting it out for second place. At the moment, there are four points between these two teams and if the away side were to come out on top, there would be massive pressure on Mancini's men.
Are they are on home soil though, Mancini is sure to be confident his team can come out on top as Manchester United are the only club to come and take the spoils from the Etihad in the league this campaign.
The Italian has set his side the challenge of winning their final 12 top flight matches as he believes if they do that, they still have a chance of the title.
With no victory in three league games though, they have to turn their form around quickly and be at their absolute best to beat a team of Chelsea's quality.
Their chances of winning the title are rated at 18/1 and those odds might shorten with a victory of home soil, which is available at evens.
When Manchester City are on top of their game, the Etihad is usually rocking, so Mancini will be hoping for an early goal and a fast start from his men
As for Chelsea, this game could define their campaign in the Premier League. A defeat is likely to leave them in a scrap for fourth place, whereas a win makes them challengers for the runner-up spot.
Many people might look at Chelsea's season and think they have nothing to play for in the league, but that is far from the case and if Rafael Benitez delivers second place, as well as the Europa League and FA Cup titles, fans would surely be happy.
Benitez hasn't been a popular man since his arrival at Stamford Bridge and he might just need that one big win to convince some supporters he is the right man for the job
There is no tougher place to come and take points than at Manchester City, so there would be no better place for Chelsea to win and they are at 10/3 here.
Both teams have no real option but to attack here and a draw wouldn't really suit either of them. With the attacking players on show and the type of football these two are capable of playing, it should be a cracking game on Sunday afternoon that gets underway at 1.30PM.
Saturday, February 23, 2013
Casillas healing from surgery wants with a championship title this season
Iker Casillas says his recovery from a broken bone in his hand is going a lot better than expected and he could possibly be back between your Real Madrid articles the moment late March.
Casillas' hand was broken by a random kick from his team-mate Alvaro Arbeloa during Madrid's Copa del Rey quarter-final game at the Mestalla on January 23.
It absolutely was feared he would face 90 days on the sidelines, and the club moved quickly to signal Diego Lopez for 3.5 million from Sevilla to play in their likely season-defining games against Barcelona in the Copa and Manchester United in the Champions League.
The Madrid club chief told reporters on Thursday evening, at the opening of a new club store at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, that the initial schedule had only been a worst-case scenario.
"I am feeling quite positive," Casillas said. "The doctor gave me the worst-case scenario, he explained three months it might take. But when the splint was removed yesterday, I was told I had a month left. Now I am doing effective exercises to obtain mobility and strength back in the finger."
Casillas said he'd been working hard at Madrid's Valdebebas training center to get right back playing the moment possible.
"Until now I've maybe not had much energy in it, but I am getting it back little by little," he explained. "We have reached the halfway point of the injury. I have still got monthly to go. I will need certainly to work more and suffer more to obtain back the freedom of before. I'm getting excited about returning. It's worse being off the message than on it."
The big event was also attended by Casillas' team-mates including Arbeloa, Xabi Alonso, Karim Benzema, Angel Di Maria, Jose Callejon, Nacho and Kaka, though coach Jose Mourinho was absent.
Alonso told reporters that he did not know yet whether he would cure his groin issue in time for next Tuesday's Copa semi-final second leg at Barcelona's Camp Nou.
"I am in the recovery stage," the midfielder said. "I am looking to get better when possible, to get gone the discomfort and get back in top form. A lot of people ask when I will get ready. I desire to be able to perform against Barca, but I don't have a solution right now."
Former Liverpool person Alonso said that, with the link balanced at 1-1, whoever obtained first in the Champions League last 16 reunite sport at Manchester United on March 5 could be favourites to advance.
"They could have the support of their fans," he said. "It will probably be considered a problem. The medial side that results first is going to be favourites. Old Trafford is a good ground and it is the kind of match we all prefer to play. The tie is quite open."
Di Maria said that it will suit Madrid to be playing abroad in both of the upcoming, possibly season-defining, games.
"Things are going well and hopefully to carry on this way," he explained. "We know that we've to have major matches in both games and that it will maybe not be easy. Because we do well when things are against us perhaps playing away is likely to be in our favour. We have had this week to focus on the simplest way to approach the games. I hope everything goes well."
Benzema, who remains question for Saturday evening's La Liga game at Deportivo La Coruna, said he wasn't worried about his current poor form before target.
"I trust that I score more goals than I've up to now, nevertheless the important things could be the squad and to win the forthcoming matches," he explained. "We need certainly to interact to get. We've an excellent team and we are all in good form."
Ricardo Kaka performed excellent in the game against La Coruna
"From the initial moment of the 2nd half we found an alteration of attitude. We didn't get because of the alterations, which were made in the second of the second half, but because of the change we made. It had been the attitude of all people that started the comeback.
"It is true that seriously he [Kaka] is playing well. He is helped by his state of mind and this is very important to the team, that he's another alternative and that he's playing well. That is always positive.
Kaka's performance also earned the praise of assistant coach Aitor Karanka, who was happy with the reaction of the squad after planning behind to a Riki hit on 35 minutes.
"We knew that Deportivo weren't playing well and saw us being an opportunity to change their fortunes. In the next half we increased our play, we scored two goals and we were able to get the three points house with us."
The win moved Real to within 13 points of league leaders Barcelona, before Blaugrana edged out Sevilla later on Saturday morning. Regardless of the margin remaining the same, Kaka thinks victory over Depor can boost Real's chances of claiming silverware this term.
"I am much better. What we've around the corner is interesting and it's the important area of the period and if the director wants me to play I will be there to help in these matches."
"The group is playing well and things are becoming better for me too. In basketball every thing changes quickly and I'm very happy to help the team win.
"[It was] an essential success in an exceedingly hard match. In the very first half we were just a little troubled and we made a couple of problems. In the second half we improved and we won three points that are essential for us and for what's to come over the next several weeks," Kaka told the club's officials website.
Real came from behind at the Riazor, with Kaka rating the equaliser before an 88th-minute winner was scored by Gonzalo Higuain for the guests. After suffering a spell with limited sport time, Kaka now thinks because they look to hold their Manhunter Liga and Champions League hopes alive he can help his staff.
Kaka has expressed pleasure at his new change in fortunes, because the playmaker starred in Real Madrid's 2-1 comeback win over Deportivo Manhunter Coruna.
Kaka played well in the game vs La Coruna
"From the very first second of the next half we saw an alteration of attitude. We did not get because of the alternatives, which were made in the second of the 2nd half, but because of the change we made. It had been the attitude of all people that started the comeback.
"It is true that honestly he [Kaka] is playing well. He is helped by his state of mind and this is very important to the staff, that he is playing well and that he is another alternative. That is always good.
Kaka's performance also earned the reward of assistant mentor Aitor Karanka, who was happy with the reaction of the team after planning behind to a Riki attack on 35 minutes.
"We knew that Deportivo were not playing well and saw us as an opportunity to change their fortunes. In the next half we increased our play, we scored two goals and we could simply take the three points house with us."
The gain moved Real to within 13 factors of league leaders Barcelona, before the Blaugrana surrounded out Sevilla later on Saturday night. Inspite of the margin remaining the same, Kaka believes victory over Depor can raise Real's odds of claiming wallpaper this phrase.
"I am a lot better. What we've nearby is fascinating and it is the major part of the season and if the director wants me to play I will be there to help in these matches."
"The team is playing well and things are becoming better for me personally too. In football every thing changes quickly and I'm very happy to support the team win.
"[It was] a significant victory really hard match. In the initial half we were a little anxious and we made a couple of problems. In the second half we improved and we won three points which can be essential for us and for what is in the future over the next few weeks," Kaka told the club's officials site.
Real came from behind at the Riazor, with Kaka scoring the equaliser before an 88th-minute winner was scored by Gonzalo Higuain for the visitors. After enduring a spell with limited game time, Kaka now feels because they check out hold their La Liga and Champions League hopes alive he is able to help his staff.
Kaka has expressed delight at his recent change in fortunes, while the playmaker starred in Real Madrid's 2-1 comeback victory over Deportivo Manhunter Coruna.
(Video) QPR 0-2 Manchester United: Premier League Highlights ...
A thunderbolt from Rafael da Silva set Manchester United on the way to a 2-0 win at bottom club Queens Park Rangers on Saturday that sent Alex Ferguson's side 15 points clear in the Premier League.
The Brazilian right-back struck in the 23rd minute, arrowing a crisp, first-time drive right into the top-left corner from outside the box after Julio Cesar had pushed away a shot from Robin van Persie.
The goal came at a cost for United, however, with top scorer van Persie tumbling into the photographers' pit behind Cesar's goal and sustaining a hip injury that forced him off four minutes before half-time.
The evergreen Ryan Giggs sealed victory in the 80th minute, ghosting onto Danny Welbeck's through ball and whipping a low shot past the exposed Cesar.
Victory gives United a massive lead at the league summit, ahead of nearest rivals Manchester City's home game with third-place Chelsea on Sunday.
60 Minutes Spotlights the Success of FC Barcelona | Hypebeast
Week after week, 60 Minutes continues to be a source of information that finds a way to examine the human condition – whether through conflict journalism to the more subdued yet frenzied world of international fútbol. Bob Simon recently traveled to Barcelona to examine the cultural phenomenon of FC Barcelona – arguably the most popular club in the world and a squad boasting a who's who of international superstars – with none bigger than Argentinian Lionel Messi. Examining their youth program called "La Masia" which has produced amongst others Messi, Fabregas, Piqué and others, the piece unearths their recipe for success while also exploring the Catalan pride that drives the club and fan base. Sandro Rosell, President of FC Barcelona, describes it as such: "It's in your blood, it's in your heart."
More Info: Górnik Zabrze - GKS Piast Gliwice [Live Football]
60 Minutes Spotlights the Success of Hamilton Academical Barcelona|Hypebeast
Week after week, 60 Minutes remains a of information that finds a way to examine the human situation a' whether through struggle journalism to the more subdued yet unhappy world of international fAtbol. Joe Simon recently moved to Barcelona to examine the cultural phenomenon of Hamilton Academical Barcelona a' arguably the most popular team on earth and a squad featuring a who of international a-listers a' with nothing larger than Argentinian Lionel Messi. Examining their youth system called aLa Masiaa which has produced amongst others Messi, Fabregas, PiquA and others, their recipe is unearthed by the piece for success while also discovering the Catalan pride that drives the fan and club base. Sandro Rosell, President of FC Barcelona, describes it as such: aItas in your blood, itas in your heart.a Source: The Initial Winger
More Info: West Ham United - Tottenham Hotspur [Live Football]
Friday, February 22, 2013
Bundesliga preview: European spots up for grabs - Soccerway
Champions League football will be the underlying focus when Bundesliga surprise packets Freiburg and Eintracht Frankfurt play on Friday.
This time last year Eintracht were in the second division in Germany, the third time in the past decade they had dropped out of the Bundesliga.
But having finished runners-up in the second tier, Eintracht were promoted to the Bundesliga for this season and started with a six-game unbeaten run.
Armin Veh's team have not looked back and could take a firm grip on the Champions League playoff position in Germany if they knock off Freiburg this week.
Freiburg only played in the Bundesliga for the first time in the 1993-94 season and have never won a top-level trophy.
Head coach Christian Streich has taken a club used to alternating between the Bundesliga and Germany's second division and has made them very hard to beat with Freiburg boasting the second most frugal defence in the top tier, having only conceded 22 goals in as many games this season.
If Freiburg win at their Mage Solar Stadion they will replace Eintracht in fourth position on goal difference but if the visitors triumph they could open up a six-point gap, as long as sixth-placed Hamburg lose to Hannover on Saturday.
Hamburg will start their short trip south to take on Hannover knowing victory will be a tough ask as their northern rivals are in fine form at home.
Hannover have only lost two games at home this season across all competitions and have claimed victory in their past four matches at the AWD-Arena.
Bundesliga-leaders Bayern Munich will also play on Saturday when they host Werder Bremen, while Nuremburg will travel to Stuttgart, Mainz are up against Wolfsburg, Augsburg face Hoffenheim and Schalke are set to play Fortuna Dusseldorf.
In Sunday's matches, second-placed Borussia Dortmund will travel south-west to face Borussia Moenchengladbach and bottom club Greuther Furth host Bayer Leverkusen.
Collection v Bayern Munich - Shows|News Store... - Arsenal.com
Collection Player is FREE for you as a paid member System Player is FREE for you as a member The information is open to Red, Silver, Gold, Platinum or Junior Gunner Member, or Day Pass Holders. I am a, Silver, Gold, Platinum or Junior Gunner MemberI am a Pass HolderI am a Registered UserI am NOT really a member Get an Arsenal Membership or One Day Pass for usage of all Arsenal Player material. Prolonged match features and 90-minute replays ArsAne Wenger's pre and-post fit press conventions Exclusive interviews with the players Strategy Player on your cellular This content is just open to Red, Silver, Gold, Platinum or Junior Gunner Member, or Day Pass Holders. I am a, Silver, Gold, Platinum or Junior Gunner MemberI am a Pass HolderI am a Registered UserI am NOT really a member Get an Arsenal Membership or 1 Day Pass for use of all Arsenal Player content. Prolonged fit highlights and 90-minute replays ArsAne Wenger's pre and-post match media conferences Exclusive interviews with the people Strategy Player on your portable
Live: Arsenal, Bayern Munich Score, Highlights, Goals - Business ...
FSCArsenal suffered a bad loss to Bayern Munich 3-1 in the first leg of their Championship League knockout stage matchup.
The two teams will play again in Munich next month, and Arsenal needs to win by two and score at least three goals to advance to the quarterfinals.
Toni Kroos opened the scoring in the 7th minute. The ball deflected off an Arsenal player and dribbled on the ground before Kroos banged it home on a short-hop:
They haven't allowed a goal in forever in the German league, and they have had a cutting edge going forward. Arsenal is just being outclassed.
Bayern looked like the dominant team in all areas. Arsenal pushed them for a five-minute span late in the half, but it's all Bayern right now.
If Bayern wins 3-0, Arsenal would have to win 3-0 or 4-1 or better in the return leg of the series in Munich next month.
Arsenal isn't enjoying as much possession as they were in the early stages of the second half. Bayern has had a few corners. Still 2-1.
They're pressing hard for the equalizer, which would be massive going into to the return leg in Munich next month...
Zullos future "up in the air"|Eredivisie - EatSleepSport
Last Updated: Tue, 19 Feb 2013 13:16 Michael Zullo admits he'd want to stick to Utrecht but says he has no idea where he'll be playing soccer next season. The 24-year-old joined Utrecht from Brisbane Roar on a three-year offer back 2010 and is becoming an essential person in the side with 20 performances for the Stadion Galgenwaard clothing this expression. He'll fall out of contract at the end of the year but the club do have the substitute for a activate a contract extension when discussions begin over his future next week. The Australia international demands he'd love to remain together with his current employers but revealed that his future is uncertain. "Things are up in the air today. The club has got the directly to activate the extension or not so it's inside their hands," he explained to -. "It is a great club and I am settled there, especially with Tommy Oar and Adam Sarota as my team-mates. "The reality is that because that will give my best chance to me of staying involved with the Socceroos." I want to be playing games Perhaps you have an opinion with this story? Put your hard earned money where your mouth is and declare a free of charge A25 gamble.
Chelsea duo to sit out Europa League
Chelsea duo Frank Lampard and Branislav Ivanovic will be rested for tomorrow's Europa League last-32 second leg against Sparta Prague.
The Blues have a 1-0 lead from last week's first leg in the Czech Republic and interim manager Rafael Benitez this afternoon confirmed the pair will be rested with Sunday's trip to Manchester City in mind.
Striker Demba Ba is cup-tied after previously featuring for Newcastle and midfielder Oriol Romeu is out with a long-standing knee injury.
Provisional squad: Cech, Turnbull, Hilario, Azpilicueta, Ferreira, Cole, Bertrand, Luiz, Cahill, Terry, Ake, Oscar, Mata, Moses, Mikel, Ramires, Hazard, Marin, Benayoun, Torres.
More Info: West Bromwich Albion - Sunderland [Live Football]
AC Milan compared to. FC Barcelona - San Bernardino County Sun
AC Milan forward Mario Balotelli, right, celebrates together with his teammate Riccardo Montolivo, second from right, Mattia De Sciglio, second left, and Bojan Krkic, of Spain, after score throughout the Serie A soccer match between AC Milan and Parma at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, Friday, Feb. 15, 2013. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni) Milan had an awful start to the season and, lying 15th in the Serie A after eight matches, appeared to be heading for a relegation struggle instead of a title fight. Nevertheless, Milan has since risen to third - even though it continues to be 11 points behind head Juventus. Barcelona poses Milan's sternest test yet. It commands a wholesome double-digit lead in the Spanish group and is well on course to recuperate the domestic concept. Meaning it could devote all its focus on Europe's top opposition as it looks for its fourth name in nine periods. "We are doing Hamilton Academical Barcelona's Lionel Messi from Argentina, in action within a Spanish Manhunter Liga soccer match against Granada at Los Carmenes stadium in Granada, Spain, Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013. (AP Photo/Daniel Tejedor) Milan will be all season have been lost only twice by underdogs against a Barcelona side which in the league and in Europe. It'll be the sixth time the two teams fulfill in the Champions League at San Siro and Milan has only won one of those activities, in the group phase in the 2004-05 season. "I do perhaps not agree that we are favorites," It is the sixth time the two sides have met in two seasons. After a draw and a gain for Barcelona in the group levels last year, Massimiliano Allegri's group held the Spanish side to an enjoyable goalless draw at San Siro in the first leg of the quarterfinal before succumbing 3-1 at the Camp Nou. "We know they're the best team on the planet at this time and we know what difficulties we're going to face," Allegri said. "Against big teams like Milan, Real Madrid, possession is dominated by them, they've an average of 65 per cent possession, we've to try to be good and control that figure. We've to be good when we've the ball because Barca defensively can agree something." Milan is still waiting on the exercise of leading scorer Stephan El Shaarawy, who has been the club's most productive and effective person in 2010 with more than 2,000 minutes of game time yielding 17 targets. El Shaarawy came off in the pull against Cagliari with a knee injury but is back in education and Milan is confident the 20-year-old Italian will be fit to start. "El Shaarawy is back the class, training," Allegri said. "I can decide after practice what is the formation to begin with. He will start.", if he's good It will be special for Milan striker Bojan Krkic, who developed through the ranks at Barcelona, scoring 41 goals in 163 appearances. Mario Balotelli, who has netted four goals in three fits since his tumultuous Manchester City profession finished last month, will not be eligible to play because he has already represented his former team in your competitors. Xavi Hernandez is preparing to play after being sidelined the past a couple of weeks with a left leg damage. Striker David Villa, but, did not make the team after spending a week ago in and out of the hospital with a case of kidney stones. Opponent Adriano may also miss the game with a right knee injury. Barcelona will have Lionel Messi, however. "He is a important person for the staff, because of what he gives and provides, objectives, because he is decisive," Barcelona striker Pedro Rodriguez said. "If he is not there, you notice it. But I actually do not think we have problems with a dependence on Messi. "This is really a very good group and though some people be noticeable, you've to recognize that Messi has gone beyond any person. He's a key person with a great ambition, a person who wants to do better each day that goes on. We are dealing with figures that you may not imagine." Roura will be on the sideline with instructor Tito Vilanova receiving treatment in Nyc after having another cancer in two years taken from his neck in December. Without Vilanova, Barcelona has prevented a major drop in type.
(Video) Bundesliga Round-Up: Bayern Munich Simplicity Past Wolfsburg...
Get the CaughtOffside iPad app. Down load the number 1 Free Activities Software from the App Store. Most of the latest footie information and much, much more. Allianz Arena area continue to run to relatively threatening Bundesliga subject. Sign in to Bayern Munchen vs Werder Bremen
Thursday, February 21, 2013
(Movie) Metalist 0-1 Newcastle United: Europa League Features...
Obtain the CaughtOffside iPad software. Download the no 1 Free Sports App from the Software Shop. Every one of the latest footie media and much, much more. A Shola Ameobi punishment found the Magpies past Ukrainian opposition and to the last 16. Register to Newcastle United vs Southampton FC Newcastle thanked Shola Ameobias next European target of the growing season, a penalty, for a gain at Metalist Kharkiv, the Ukrainians who kept the Magpies to a stalemate on Tyneside last week. Newcastle were underneath the cosh for much of the fit and Dutch keeper Tim Krul made many prime compartment saves, before Ameobi hit on 64 minutes for a crucial absent target after keeper Olexandr Goryainov upended Moussa Sissoko. The English side may face Russiaas Anzhi Makhachkala for a quarter-final area.
Arsenal 1-3 Bayern Munich - Report | Fixtures & Results | Arsenal.com
Arsène Wenger's side were beaten 3-1 by Bayern on Tuesday night at Emirates Stadium in the first leg of this last-16 tie.
Arsenal did well to wrestle back control of the game and Lukas Podolski reduced the deficit 10 minutes after the restart.
The home side pressed hard for an equaliser but the closest they came was when Olivier Giroud's drive bounced back off keeper Manuel Neuer.
The goal makes their task in Germany much more difficult in three weeks' time. But Arsenal must go to Bavaria with the belief that they can turn this tie around.
Laurent Koscielny recovered from a knock to return to central defence. That allowed Thomas Vermaelen to move out to left back as Nacho Monreal was cup-tied.
Theo Walcott was up front while Aaron Ramsey, Mikel Arteta and Jack Wilshere made for a combative trio in central midfield. Podolski and Santi Cazorla were on the flanks. Bacary Sagna returned at right back.
They arrived with a host of dazzling statistics to support the assertion that they were Europe's best team at the moment.
However Bayern's first real opportunity saw Muller whip in a cross from the right. It was inches away from the stretching Ramsey and Kross met the ball with a crisp finish from the edge of the area.
The genesis of the goal came from Franck Ribery's sumptuous pass from the left flank to the right which found Philipp Lahm in full flow.
His cross was blocked for a corner. Kross swung it to the near post where Daniel van Buyten rose above the Arsenal defence to power in a header.
Arsenal needed to shore up the game before they ventured forward and they rolled up their sleeves for the next quarter-hour.
In the 34th minute, Wilshere lofted a free-kick into the area and the ball eventually fell to Mertesacker, whose snap-shot was blocked.
Arsenal ended the half having built up a modicum of pressure on the Bayern goal. But they were nearly caught out in the final minute.
The tie was only a quarter gone and already seemed like a long way back but everyone with a red-and-white heart had to believe.
Wilshere's corner found a path through the Bayern area and enticed Neuer forward. However the keeper missed it, allowing Podolski to nod home the bouncing ball into an unguarded net.
The strike stung Bayern into greater offensive action. Kroos' climbing shot forced Szczesny to tip over at the near post and, from the corner, Javi Martinez nodded just inches over.
First through Podolski's low cross-shot and then, in the 73rd minute, Walcott's right-wing cross found Giroud, who had just come on.
It was the type of moment where Arsenal needed a dash of fortune. A point that was brought into sharp focus four minutes later by the manner of Bayern's third.
Substitute Arjen Robben fed Lahm down the right. His low cross was met by both Sagna and Mandzukic racing towards the far post.
Neither made a positive connection but the ball looped high and dropped into the net before the backtracking Szczesny could scoop it away.
It might have been worse shortly afterwards when Luiz Gustavo's deflected shot nearly wrong-footed Szczesny. The keeper saved and Mario Gomez planted the rebound over the bar.
RKC Waalwijk 0-2 Ajax Amsterdam illustrates - 1000 Goals
RKC Waalwijk 0-2 Ajax Amsterdam highlights: Ajax Amsterdam were seeking to shut their space at the very top of Eredivisie when they travel to face RKC Waalwijk on Sunday. Visitors straight away took control of actions as they dominated the match, developing several great goal scoring possibilities before ultimately taking the lead on 22 minutes through Niklas Moisander's basic close variety finish. 5 minutes before the half time break, Ajax doubled their lead with a fine personal work from Christian Eriksen, offering the visitor a comfortable advantage starting the break. RKC went close in taking a goal back when they were awarded a penalty kick in the 2nd period, but unfortunately Robert Braber's location kick was hit directly at Ajax Keeper, making the scoreline stood a 2-0 as no teams obtained again until full-time whistle was blown. Video is highlighted by rkc Waalwijk vs Ajax Amsterdam. Score: 0-2. Eredivisie soccer match played on Monday 18 February 2013.
Bayern Munich to Launch £40m Bid for Liverpool Striker Luis Suarez ...
Runaway Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich will launch a £40m summer bid for Liverpool forward Luis Suarez according to La Stampa.
The Bavarian side would appear to have more than enough firepower, especially when you consider last season's top scorer Mario Gomez is now warming the Allianz Arena bench, but it seems that incoming boss Pep Guardiola is taking an interest in the in-form Uruguayan.
The 25 year old is in the best form of his Liverpool career having scored 23 goals in all competitions thus far this term and is perhaps the most pivotal member of Brendan Rodgers' Anfield squad.
The Merseyside club are sure to fight off interest in the former Ajax man but if Liverpool fail to secure a Champions League berth for next term then Suarez may be more open to the possibility of a move to the German giants.
Suarez has begun to form a very effective strike partnership with January signing Daniel Sturridge and regardless of what offer is made Liverpool will surely not consider selling the forward unless he were to attempt to force the issue himself.
Bayern Munich sit top of the Bundesliga, 15 points clear of second placed Borussia Dortmund, having scored 57 goals in 22 matches. Summer signing Mario Mandzukic is successfully keeping Gomez on the bench and any move to sign Suarez would surely only be an option if Guardiola was looking to offload one of his two main striking options.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Eredivisie: Overmars comes Fischer influence - ClubCall.com
Ajax manager of baseball Marc Overmars has praised Viktor Fischer's new impact on the Dutch side. The 18-year-old has enjoyed somewhat of a breakthrough time for the Amsterdammers, making 17 hearings to date, along with gaining a to the Denmark squad.Overmars has now acknowledged the forward's impact and believes he is placing the right example for a number of the club's other young starlets."Viktor is a great example for men like Lucas Andersen and Dejan Meleg," he said. "When you prosper and obtain a opportunity, you has ups and downs and play."He is 18, nevertheless the school is there and he is able to already choose matches."
United 2 Reading 1 - Manchester United
18/02/2013 22:07, Report by Steve Bartram Second-half targets from Nani and Chicharito sent Manchester United to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup after having a tense,Aattritional triumph over Reading atAOld Trafford. Brian McDermott's Royals stifled United for long periods but Nani, on for the hurt Phil Jones, rifled house the starting target after 69 minutes and wonderfully laid on the next just two minutes later. Jobi McAnuff struck with 10 minutes remainingAto ensure a nervy finish for the home support, but United held on to secure a last seven wrap against sometimes Middlesbrough or Chelsea. Sir Alex Ferguson had championed the range of the talent pool at his disposal in front of the game, and wanted to demonstrate it with eight changes sideways which fought out a sketch at Real Madrid five days earlier in the day, with only Jones, David De Gea and Danny Welbeck preserving their position. The beginning produced by the much-changed Reds augured well. In a bit more when compared to a moment United could have moved ahead as Chicharito's opportunity was blocked by Adrian Mariappa, as was Welbeck's rebound, and the ball ricocheted partially too much for Antonio Valencia to nod in to the yawning purpose. Less than two minutes later Welbeck pushed Reading goalkeeper Adam Federici into his first save of the evening with a strong left-footed work, before Ashley Young's opportunity was fearlessly blocked by Sean Morrison as the winger looked certain to sidefoot home the opening goal of the
Bundesliga Nut Podcast Show 80: Family Friendly Programming
Niklas Wildhagen welcomes the Bundesliga Loungeas Terry Duffelen to discuss match day 22 and the forthcoming features in the Champions League and Europa League. Part 1: Is Jens Keller likely to hold his work at Schalke? Should the bottom three sides arrange for a life in the two. Bundesliga? What to make of Dortmundas big win against Frankfurt? All this and a great deal more in a part jam filled with Bundesliga goodness. Phase 2: We take a peek at we run down the remainder of the mid-week fixtures? and what we can get from Bayernas forthcoming opponents Arsenal Tune in to our podcast on Podbean. Contribute to the pod on iTunes. Feel free to leave a comment below.
Bundesliga 2013, Week 22 preview and fixtures: Battle for second ...
While Bayern Munich have the title all but wrapped up, Eintracht Frankfurt and Borussia Dortmund face each other in a match with second place on the line.
After many weeks of outstanding action in the Champions League and Europa League, the Bundesliga disappointed this week with three draws and three losses. League play returns this weekend with a massive battle for second place going on between Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt. Elsewhere, Bayern look to keep cruising at Wolfsburg, Mainz host Schalke who are still trying to regroup, and Werder Bremen look to continue their streak against Freiburg
Wolfsburg vs Bayern Munich - 20:30 CET / 2:30 PM ETI could go on a lengthy explanation on why Bayern Munich will come away from the Volkswagen Arena with a victory on Friday afternoon, but it's not really necessary. Simply put: Bayern are playing better than everyone else. They've won all four matches since returning from the winter break outscoring opponents 11-0. Oh, yeah, they're unbeaten in their last twelve. They've also been playing out of their mind away from the Allianz. They have nine wins and one draw, and they have outscored their opponents 25-1. WHAT? I don't like your chances, Wolfsburg.Prediction: Wolfsburg 0 - 3 Bayern Munich
Werder Bremen vs Freiburg - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETFreiburg have been one of the surprise sides of the season and are currently sitting in fifth place in the Bundesliga table. If you had to guess the team with by far the second best defense in the Bundesliga, you probably wouldn't guess Freiburg. Well, you'd be wrong. Pavel Krmas and Diagne Fallou have anchored a defense that is only bested by Bayern at this point in the season. They've only allowed 20 goals thus far, and the pair have been a solid wall in front of goalkeeper Oliver Baumann. Werder Bremen are all the way down in 11th place, but only three points separates the two sides. They've been very up and down this season with eight wins, four draws, and nine losses. Can they put things together and grab a huge win over a tough opponent?Prediction: Werder Bremen 1 - 0 Freiburg
Bayer Leverkusen vs Augsburg - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETAfter a stellar first half of the season where they were basically the only side that could still see Bayern Munich in the table, Bayer Leverkusen have hit a few snags since returning for the winter break with draws against Freiburg and Borussia Mönchengladbach and a loss to Borussia Dortmund. In the Europa League midweek, they were downright awful against Benfica. They've started to collapse a bit defensively, and Augsburg is a good opponent to be coming in and instill a little confidence in your team. Since the winter break, Augsburg are undefeated. The problem is only one of those four matches has been a win. They need the points. They're one point out of the relegation playoff spot and nine points from escaping relegation completely.Prediction: Bayer Leverkusen 2 - 0 Augsburg
Fortuna Düsseldorf vs Greuther Fürth - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETOof, this match could be a little brutal to watch. Fortuna Düsseldorf are sitting in 15th place, while Greuther Fürth are propping up the bottom of the table. While both of Fürth's wins this season have come away from home, Düsseldorf should handle them in this match. It'll be a grind.Prediction: Fortuna Düsseldorf 1 - 0 Greuther Fürth
Mainz vs Schalke - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETWhile sitting back and thinking about what is going on at Schalke, I believe I finally figured it out. The team that we saw through early November was abducted by aliens and replaced by a team of awful, awful, awful players. Nope? That's not right? Uh oh, they're in trouble. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar is expected to miss another match for the club, and there are some rumors that Jens Keller is thinking of going to a strikerless formation. Mainz are in sixth place in the table thanks to an impressive defense. Can they keep this Schalke side from scoring? Yeah, they sure can. Will they? I have no reason why I'm taking them, but I think Schalke somehow... Somehow... Take this one.Prediction: Mainz 0 - 1 Schalke
Hamburg vs Borussia Mönchengladbach - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETHamburg took all six points from Borussia Dortmund this year with 3-2 victory at the Volksparkstadion and a stunning 4-1 smashing at the Westfalenstadion last weekend. They followed up the first match with a 2-2 draw at Gladbach. They can definitely do it again. Hamburg are playing well with Artjoms Rudnevs and Heung-Min Son with ten and nine goals respectively. Borussia Mönchengladbach's games since returning from the winter break with one win, one loss, and two draws. Couple that with their midweek 3-3 draw with Lazio, and you see they're not only scoring goals but conceding them as well.Prediction: Hamburg 2 - 2 Borussia Mönchengladbach
Borussia Dortmund vs Eintracht Frankfurt - 18:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETFar and away the candidate for "Match of the Weekend", Eintracht Frankfurt travel to the Westfalenstadion to take on Borussia Dortmund. The hosts are in second place and the visitors in fourth place, but they are only separated by two points. BVB had a difficult match midweek in the Champions league away to Shakhtar Donetsk. Both teams have a propensity for high scoring matches this season, so it should be a barnburner.Prediction: Borussia Dortmund 2 - 3 Eintracht Frankfurt
Nürnberg vs Hannover - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETNürnberg seem like they're too far away to be bothered by relegation, but they're not playing well enough to challenge for a European place. They've played okay since the winter break and get the added bonus of Hannover coming of a European League game. Russia was unkind to Hannover, as they were handed a 3-1 loss at the hands of Anzhi Makhachkala Thursday. They've been really struggling defensively this season, but Nürnberg don't really have the players to give them a lot of problems Sunday.Prediction: Nürnberg 1 - 1 Hannover
Hoffenheim vs Stuttgart - 17:30 CET / 11:30 AM ETStuttgart have lost their last five Bundesliga matches by a combined score of 14-3. Seriously. They're down in 14th place, and it leaves you wondering just how Bruno Labbadia has a job. The team is listless, and something needs to happen to change things. Yep, I had this team finishing second in the Bundesliga this year. Oof. That was a mistake. Hoffenheim are in the relegation playoff place, but they only have a one point lead over 17th place Augsburg. It's time for Hoffenheim to start shaping up if they want to stay in the Bundesliga.Prediction: Hoffenheim 2 - 2 Stuttgart