Archive soccer news from around the world
Rooney pleads guilty and hit with three-match ban (Dec 31, 2004)
Manchester United's push for the Premiership title suffered a major blow when star striker Wayne Rooney was hit with a three-match ban after admitting a charge of violent conduct, the Football Association (FA) announced. . . . more . . .
It'll be like watching Brazil - well, almost: Real's Luxemburgo (Dec 31, 2004)
Newly-appointed Real Madrid coach Wanderley Luxemburgo said that under his stewardship it would be a little bit more like watching his former charges Brazil in the coming months at the Bernabeu. . . . more . . .
French defender Boumsong about to join Newcastle (Dec 31, 2004)
French defender Jean-Alain Boumsong was in Newcastle and about to complete an eight-million-pound (11.3-million euro) move from Rangers to the Magpies. . . . more . . .
Souness backs Boumsong to be king of defenders (Dec 31, 2004)
Newcastle boss Graeme Souness believes his new eight-million-pound acquisition Jean-Alain Boumsong could become one of the best central defenders in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Villa and Everton battle for Beattie (Dec 31, 2004)
Aston Villa and Everton are locked in a six-million-pound battle for Southampton striker James Beattie, the Villa chairman Doug Ellis revealed. . . . more . . .
FA hit back at Ferguson over Rooney ban (Dec 31, 2004)
The English Football Association (FA) launched a defence of their disciplinary system after they had come under fire from Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .
World class Rooney will get better and better, says Eriksson (Dec 31, 2004)
England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson believes that teenage striker Wayne Rooney has already reached world class status and that 2005 will see the Manchester United star cement his place at the top of the game. . . . more . . .
Moyes backs Wright's England dream (Dec 31, 2004)
Everton manager David Moyes believes goalkeeper Richard Wright can reclaim his place in the England lineup after being recalled to the Premiership team. . . . more . . .
Luxemburgo is the new Real Madrid coach: Brazilian press (Dec 30, 2004)
Former Brazil national coach Wanderley Luxemburgo told Brazilian press he was the new Real Madrid coach. . . . more . . .
Real go Brazilian with Luxemburgo at the helm (Dec 30, 2004)
Former Brazil national coach Wanderley Luxemburgo flew into Spain to become Real Madrid's fifth coach in 18 months. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Babayaro set for New Year's Day move to Newcastle (Dec 30, 2004)
Chelsea defender Celestine Babayaro is set to become a Newcastle player on New Year's Day as the first player to be signed by manager Graeme Souness after the transfer window opens. . . . more . . .
Gunners keep Chelsea in their sights (Dec 30, 2004)
Arsenal will enter the New Year five points adrift of Premiership leaders Chelsea after a hard-fought and somewhat fortunate 1-0 win over Newcastle. . . . more . . .
Rooney pleads guilty and hit with three-match ban (Dec 30, 2004)
Manchester United's push for the Premiership title suffered a major blow when star striker Wayne Rooney was hit with a three-match ban after admitting a charge of violent conduct, the Football Association (FA) announced. . . . more . . .
English clubs pledge cash for tsunami victims (Dec 30, 2004)
Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and other English Premiership clubs pledged at least one million pounds (1.8 million dollars) in aid for victims of Asia's tsunami disaster. . . . more . . .
United hope for title helping hand (Dec 29, 2004)
Manchester United defender John O'Shea believes his teammates are going to need a helping hand from other Premiership sides if Chelsea's surge to the title is to be halted. . . . more . . .
Gunners keep Chelsea in their sights (Dec 29, 2004)
Arsenal will enter the New Year five points adrift of Premiership leaders Chelsea after a hard-fought and somewhat fortunate 1-0 win over Newcastle. . . . more . . .
Job's Boro future safe says McClaren (Dec 29, 2004)
Frustrated forward Joseph-Desire Job has been told to forget any plans he has to leave Middlesbrough after the Cameroon international struck twice within a matter of minutes to secure a 2-0 Premiership victory over Norwich. . . . more . . .
Allardyce fearing drop after Rovers defeat (Dec 29, 2004)
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce said he is facing up to his greatest challenge in management after Blackburn's well-deserved 1-0 win at the Reebok Stadium pushed the Wanderers further into the Premier League wilderness. . . . more . . .
Ferguson issues Villa warning to title rivals (Dec 29, 2004)
Sir Alex Ferguson did his best to heap the pressure on title rivals Chelsea and Arsenal by warning they had still to travel to Aston Villa after seeing Manchester United go third in the Premier League with a hard-fought 1-0 away win against the Midlands club. . . . more . . .
Rooney charged with violent conduct (Dec 29, 2004)
Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney was charged with violent conduct by the Football Association after he shoved Bolton's Tal Ben Haim in the face at Old Trafford on Boxing Day. . . . more . . .
Mourinho salutes Chelsea's nerve after Pompey win (Dec 29, 2004)
Jose Mourinho paid tribute to Chelsea's character after watching them battle to a 2-0 victory over Portsmouth here at Fratton Park. . . . more . . .
Charlton double sinks 10-man Everton (Dec 28, 2004)
Charlton sent ten-man Everton to their first defeat in eight Premiership matches with a 2-0 victory at The Valley. . . . more . . .
Malaysia rock Indonesia in Tiger Cup (Dec 28, 2004)
Malaysia took a giant step toward reaching the Tiger Cup final by coming from behind to upset fancied Indonesia 2-1 in the first leg of their semi-final. . . . more . . .
Juventus set to gazump Rangers, Atletico and Bremen to land Nonda (Dec 28, 2004)
Monaco striker Shabani Nonda is set to join Juventus after his agent admitted he expected negotiations to start any time following media reports in Italy of the player's imminent arrival. . . . more . . .
Chelsea see off battling Pompey (Dec 28, 2004)
Two late goals from Arjen Robben and Joe Cole saw Premiership leaders Chelsea win 2-0 away at Fratton Park as Jose Mourinho's expensively-assembled side went eight points clear at the top of the table. . . . more . . .
Dickov strikes as Bolton's slide continues (Dec 28, 2004)
Bolton's spectacular demise continued with a 1-0 defeat at home to Lancashire neighbours Blackburn at the Reebok Stadium extending their current losing streak to six games, the club's worst ever in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Joseph gets job done for Boro (Dec 28, 2004)
Joseph-Desire Job pushed his claims for a regular starting place by striking twice inside a few minutes to ease Middlesbrough to a comfortable 2-0 victory over Norwich City. . . . more . . .
Pongolle sends Saints closer to the drop (Dec 28, 2004)
Florent Sinama-Pongolle's fourth goal of the season for Liverpool secured a 1-0 win over Southampton at Anfield which left the visitors second from bottom of the Premier League. . . . more . . .
Johnson spoils Spurs' record bid (Dec 28, 2004)
Tottenham's quest for a club record sixth straight Premiership win was dashed by a late equaliser from Crystal Palace's Andrew Johnson. . . . more . . .
Giggs strike downs Villa (Dec 28, 2004)
Ryan Giggs capped a fine individual display by scoring the goal that took Manchester United into third in the Premier League with a 1-0 win against Aston Villa. . . . more . . .
Hard-working Baggies earn freak point (Dec 28, 2004)
Ten-man West Brom remained bottom of the table following a 1-1 draw away to Manchester City but at least had the consolation of a draw following a bizarre own-goal five minutes from time. . . . more . . .
City slickers humble Fulham (Dec 28, 2004)
Birmingham's supposed striker crisis disappeared for 90 minutes with a 3-2 humbling of Premiership strugglers Fulham. . . . more . . .
Novo the toast of Ibrox (Dec 28, 2004)
Rangers striker Nacho Novo received a glowing tribute from Ibrox chief Alex McLeish following his man-of-the-match performance. . . . more . . .
Ljungberg blames himself for headache attacks (Dec 27, 2004)
Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg said he alone was to to blame for the extent of the migraine headache attacks that led the English champions to send him for a brain scan. . . . more . . .
Novo inspires Rangers win to close gap on Celtic (Dec 27, 2004)
Spanish striker Nacho Novo proved the inspiration as Rangers outclassed Motherwell 4-1 at Ibrox on Monday to narrow the gap at the top of the Scottish Premier League. . . . more . . .
The best is yet to come promises Benitez (Dec 27, 2004)
Rafael Benitez predicted the best was yet to come after watching his Liverpool side crush hapless West Bromwich 5-0 at the Hawthorns. . . . more . . .
Rest better than a change for Giggs (Dec 27, 2004)
Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs said his recent run of good form was largely down to Sir Alex Ferguson's decision to rest him at the beginning of November. . . . more . . .
No action to be taken against Fowler (Dec 27, 2004)
Manchester City's Robbie Fowler looks sure to escape punishment for his unusual goal celebration against Everton at Goodison Park. . . . more . . .
Everton hang onto third spot (Dec 26, 2004)
Everton stayed third in the English Premiership thanks to goals from Australia midfielder Tim Cahill and Marcus Bent in an impressive 2-1 victory over Manchester City at Goodison Park. . . . more . . .
Lively Liverpool crush 10-man West Brom (Dec 26, 2004)
A John Arne Riise double helped Liverpool crush hapless West Brom 5-0 at the Hawthorns. . . . more . . .
Saints' struggles continue with Charlton statlemate (Dec 26, 2004)
Southampton remained second-from-bottom in the Premier League after a goalless draw at home to Charlton Athletic. . . . more . . .
French duo keep Arsenal in the hunt (Dec 26, 2004)
English champions Arsenal stayed second in the table, five points behind leaders Chelsea, after a goal in either half from France internationals Thierry Henry and Robert Pires ensured a 2-0 win over a lacklustre Fulham at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Spurs on a roll as Norwich cave in (Dec 26, 2004)
Tottenham Hotspur claimed a fifth consecutive English Premiership win with a 2-0 victory over strugglers Norwich City at Carrow Road. . . . more . . .
Celtic finish 2004 on top in Scotland (Dec 26, 2004)
Celtic ensured their place at the top of the Scottish Premier League at the end of 2004 with a 2-0 win away to Hearts. . . . more . . .
Primus warms Pompey hearts in Palace raid (Dec 26, 2004)
Linvoy Primus's second-half goal was good enough to give Portsmouth a 1-0 win away to struggling Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. . . . more . . .
No happy returns for struggling Souness (Dec 26, 2004)
Graeme Souness returned to Blackburn for the first time since leaving Ewood Park for Newcastle earlier in the season, but he left disappointed as the Magpies twice let slip a lead to draw 2-2. . . . more . . .
Duff strike preserves Chelsea's five-point lead (Dec 26, 2004)
Damien Duff showed why Jose Mourinho's decision to cancel Christmas might prove worthwhile after the Premiership leaders' 1-0 win over Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Strike duo give Boro the Blues (Dec 26, 2004)
First-half goals from Clinton Morrison and Emile Heskey gave Birmingham a 2-0 win against Middlesbrough, Steve Bruce's side moving further away from the relegation zone with a third straight victory in front of their own fans at St. . . . more . . .
Giggs's strike helps floor Bolton (Dec 26, 2004)
Ryan Giggs's second league goal of the season offered a timely reminder to Sir Alex Ferguson of his value to the club as Manchester United kept within touching distance of Chelsea and Arsenal in a 2-0 victory over Bolton at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Sudan take bronze medal in regional Cup tournament (Dec 25, 2004)
Sudan beat Kenya 2-1 to take the bronze medal in the East and Central Senior Challenge Cup tournament. . . . more . . .
Vieira will kickstart Gunners' title bid says Wenger (Dec 25, 2004)
Arsene Wenger is hoping team skipper Patrick Vieira will show his future commitment to Arsenal by helping to kickstart their title challenge in the second half of the season. . . . more . . .
Ethiopia reclaim CECAFA Cup title (Dec 25, 2004)
Ethiopia crushed Burundi 3-0 here to win their third East and Central Africa Senior Challenge Cup title. . . . more . . .
Mourinho not expecting Christmas presents (Dec 25, 2004)
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho takes his Premiership leaders into the busy holiday schedule insisting the Christmas football period "means nothing to him". . . . more . . .
Celtic pledge to power on to title (Dec 25, 2004)
Celtic midfielder Neil Lennon believes the Scottish League leaders will take a huge step forward towards another championship title in the new year. . . . more . . .
Inamoto sent out on loan to Cardiff (Dec 24, 2004)
Japanese international midfielder Junichi Inamoto has been forced to step down a division in England as he desperately searches for match fitness. . . . more . . .
Bremen offload Charisteas to Ajax in bid to lure Nonda: report (Dec 24, 2004)
Reigning Bundesliga champions Werder Bremen have sold Greece striker Angelos Charisteas to Dutch giants Ajax and are hoping to lure Monaco's Shabani Nonda to the club in his place. . . . more . . .
We can't lose sight of Chelsea says United's Silvestre (Dec 24, 2004)
France defender Mikael Silvestre says Manchester United must continue their recent form if they are to stop league leaders Chelsea from running away with the Premiership title. . . . more . . .
Macala ups the Gulf Cup ante (Dec 24, 2004)
Oman's coach Milan Macala has stirred up Qatar's preparations for the Gulf Cup final by hinting the hosts would not be able to cope with the pressures of Friday's big match. . . . more . . .
Japan's Ono to undergo surgery, likely to miss World Cup clash with NKorea (Dec 24, 2004)
Feyenoord's Japan midfielder Shinji Ono will undergo surgery on his left ankle next Monday, making him doubtful for his country's World Cup qualifier against North Korea, his agent said. . . . more . . .
Dropped points won't give us the blues says Mourinho (Dec 24, 2004)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho insists he will be keeping his cool over a packed period of festive football even if the Blues drop points. . . . more . . .
Southampton reject China captain Zheng (Dec 24, 2004)
China captain Zheng Zhi has been told by Southampton manager Harry Redknapp he is not what the club is looking for, following a seven-day trial. . . . more . . .
Ferguson recalls Ronaldo romp against Bolton (Dec 24, 2004)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson admitted the memory of Cristiano Ronaldo's performance against Bolton last season made him tempted to play the Portugal winger in Sunday's match at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Gerrard just wants Liverpool to improve (Dec 24, 2004)
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has insisted all his comments about the club are simply designed to help bring more trophies to Anfield. . . . more . . .
Bremen offload Charisteas to Ajax in bid to lure Nonda (Dec 24, 2004)
Reigning Bundesliga champions Werder Bremen have sold Greek international striker Angelos Charisteas to Dutch giants Ajax and are hoping to lure Monaco's Shabani Nonda to the club in his place. . . . more . . .
Wenger says bah humbug to winter transfer market (Dec 24, 2004)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said he will not be rushing in to pay inflated prices for players in the winter transfer window. . . . more . . .
Qatar claim Gulf Cup triumph (Dec 24, 2004)
Qatar won the Arabian Gulf Cup for the second time beating Oman 5-4 on penalties in front of a capacity crowd after the two sides had been locked at 1-1 at the end of extra-time. . . . more . . .
Aussie Cahill is key for Everton (Dec 24, 2004)
Everton boss David Moyes believes Australian international midfielder Tim Cahill will rediscover his goal touch when Manchester City visit Goodison Park. . . . more . . .
Barton says sorry for City party shame (Dec 24, 2004)
Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton has apologized to team boss Kevin Keegan after attacking teammate Jamie Tandy with a lighted cigar at the club's Christmas party. . . . more . . .
Souness feels noose around his neck (Dec 23, 2004)
Graeme Souness has admitted he has little time to get Newcastle winning before the board and fans lose patience. . . . more . . .
Gerrard in for long run at liverpool (Dec 23, 2004)
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has dismissed talk of an imminent move to Chelsea or Real Madrid and urged the club to reinforce in the January transfer window for a fresh assault on honours. . . . more . . .
Bahrain finish third in Gulf Cup (Dec 23, 2004)
Bahrain clinched the third place in the 17th Arabian Gulf Cup with a convincing 3-1 win over Kuwait. . . . more . . .
Keane fancies role as Golden Oldie (Dec 23, 2004)
Manchester United skipper Roy Keane is keen to carry on at Old Trafford beyond 2006 when he will be 35. . . . more . . .
Blackburn bid for Savage (Dec 23, 2004)
Blackburn manager Mark Hughes confirmed they had bid in excess of 2 million pounds for Birmingham midfielder Robbie Savage and hit back at Birmingham chief executive Karen Brady who described the offer as "derisory". . . . more . . .
Inamoto sent out on loan to Cardiff (Dec 23, 2004)
Japanese international midfielder Junichi Inamoto has been forced to step down a division in England as he desperately searches for match fitness. . . . more . . .
Blackburn snap up South African skipper (Dec 23, 2004)
South Africa captain Aaron Mokoena has joined English Premiership side Blackburn Rovers in a 600,000-pound deal from Belgian club Racing Genk. . . . more . . .
Vingada takes over at Academica (Dec 23, 2004)
Former Portugal national team coach Nelo Vingada was named as the new boss of league strugglers Academica Coimbra taking over from Joao Carlos Pereira who quit at the start of the week. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy out for up to eight weeks (Dec 23, 2004)
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said he will be without star striker Ruud van Nistelrooy for up to eight weeks. . . . more . . .
City hand Barton record fine (Dec 23, 2004)
Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton has been handed a record fine of six weeks' wages after the English Premiership side found him guilty of gross misconduct at their annual Christmas party. . . . more . . .
Everton cash plan still on (Dec 22, 2004)
A potential 30 million pounds investment in Premiership high-flyers Everton remains on the table after the man fronting the Brunei-based Fortress Sports Fund (FSF) gave the Merseyside club a written assurance the deal was still on. . . . more . . .
Struggling Lazio sack coach Caso (Dec 22, 2004)
Struggling Lazio sacked their coach Domenico Caso after just five months in the job and promised fans that his successor would rescue them from relegation. . . . more . . .
Barton facing punishment after cigar incident (Dec 22, 2004)
Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton is set to face disciplinary action after he allegedly poked a burning cigar into the eye of a team-mate at the club's Christmas party. . . . more . . .
Mourinho calls for more subs (Dec 22, 2004)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho wants the Premier League to increase the number of substitutes allowed on match days. . . . more . . .
Mexico, Sweden book World Cup qualifying tuneup (Dec 22, 2004)
Mexico will prepare for next year's North American 2006 World Cup qualifying with a January 26 friendly against Sweden, organizers of the event announced. . . . more . . .
Cole ready for new Arsenal talks: agent (Dec 22, 2004)
Arsenal defender Ashley Cole is ready to begin talks on a new contract with the English champions despite Real Madrid showing an interest in the England left-back, the player's agent said. . . . more . . .
Gunshot victim Montoya 'critical' (Dec 22, 2004)
Luis Fernando Montoya, coach of Copa Libertades champions Once Caldas, was in a critical condition in hospital after being shot by burglars at his home in Medellin. . . . more . . .
Shearer blow for Newcastle (Dec 22, 2004)
Beleagured Newcastle United learned that club skipper Alan Shearer will be out for another month after a scan revealed his thigh muscle tear had not healed. . . . more . . .
Greece's Euro star Charisteas set for Ajax (Dec 22, 2004)
Werder Bremen have given their Greece international Angelos Charisteas the all clear to sign for Dutch giants Ajax. . . . more . . .
Parker pitches in against Stamford Bridge surface (Dec 22, 2004)
Chelsea's Scott Parker laid some of the blame for his broken foot on the Premiership leaders' newly-laid pitch. . . . more . . .
Espanyol start work on new stadium (Dec 22, 2004)
Spanish first division club Espanyol have started preparatory work on building a new stadium, the club president Daniel Sanchez Llibre announced. . . . more . . .
Valencia revival continues, as Real Madrid crash (Dec 22, 2004)
Reigning Spanish champions Valencia extended their unbeaten run to six games as they beat fellow high-flyers Espanyol 3-0 while Sevilla won their first match at Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu stadium in 20 years on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Blackburn release Djorkaeff (Dec 22, 2004)
Blackburn Rovers have released France veteran Youri Djorkaeff who had been on a short-term contract with English Premiership club. . . . more . . .
Cardiff eye Inamoto deal (Dec 21, 2004)
Cardiff manager Lennie Lawrence is aiming to bring Japan international midfielder Junichi Inamoto from Premiership basement club West Brom to Ninian Park by Thursday. . . . more . . .
Zico recalls striker Kubo for pre-World Cup friendlies (Dec 21, 2004)
Japan coach Zico has recalled Yokohama striker Tatsuhiko Kubo to boost the Asian champion's firepower for home friendlies against Kazakhstan and Syria, ahead of their final World Cup qualifiers. . . . more . . .
Real line up Sacchi (Dec 21, 2004)
Real Madrid's board were expected to make former Italy and AC Milan coach Arrigo Sacchi general manager, the club said on its website. . . . more . . .
Spurs set to splash out in January sales (Dec 21, 2004)
Tottenham were reported to be set to move for Sweden winger Christian Wilhelmsson and Czech Under 21 international David Limbersky. . . . more . . .
Zajec confirmed as new Pompey manager (Dec 21, 2004)
Portsmouth confirmed that Velimir Zajec would be their new manager in succession to Harry Redknapp. . . . more . . .
Liverpool rule Gerrard out of Morientes move (Dec 21, 2004)
Liverpool have told Real Madrid to forget about using Fernando Morientes to lure Steven Gerrard to the Bernabeu next summer. . . . more . . .
Bruce wants Savage to stay at Birmingham (Dec 21, 2004)
Birmingham manager Steve Bruce insisted he was determined to keep Robbie Savage at St Andrews after intense speculation the Wales midfielder was set to depart for Premiership rivals Blackburn Rovers during the January transfer window. . . . more . . .
Scotland ranking saddens Burns (Dec 21, 2004)
Scotland assistant manager Tommy Burns spoke of his sadness at seeing the national team officially labelled worse than such international minnows as Burkina Faso. . . . more . . .
No Euro complex at United says Neville (Dec 21, 2004)
Manchester United defender Gary Neville insisted the English giants did not have any mental hang-ups about playing in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Germany wraps up Asia tour with 5-1 thrashing of Thailand (Dec 21, 2004)
World Cup 2006 hosts Germany thrashed Thailand 5-1 to bounce back from a shock defeat in South Korea and wrap up their three-match Asian tour in style. . . . more . . .
Angry Roberto Carlos demands Real Madrid transfer (Dec 21, 2004)
Brazil World Cup star Roberto Carlos, continually thwarted in his pay demands, has demanded a transfer after Real Madrid dropped him for last weekend's 3-2 league win over Racing Santander. . . . more . . .
Danish international Gronkjaer signs for Atletico (Dec 21, 2004)
Atletico Madrid completed the signing of Danish international Jesper Gronkjaer after he passed a medical, the Spanish first division club announced. . . . more . . .
Morgan withdraws Liverpool bid (Dec 21, 2004)
Businessman Steve Morgan withdrew his latest 70 million-pound offer for the club. . . . more . . .
Real set out stall by signing Sacchi as sports director (Dec 21, 2004)
Real Madrid have signed former AC Milan and Italy coach Arrigo Sacchi as the club's new sports director, Real club president Florentino Perez announced at a press conference. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho committed in fight against racism (Dec 21, 2004)
Brazil's newly-crowned FIFA World Footballer of the Year Ronaldinho said he was committed in the fight against racism in the sport. . . . more . . .
Roberto Carlos denies demanding Real Madrid transfer (Dec 21, 2004)
Brazil World Cup winner Roberto Carlos has angrily denied demanding a transfer after Real Madrid coach Mariano Garcia Remon left him on the bench for Saturday's 3-2 league win over Racing Santander. . . . more . . .
Eto'o gets lucky 13 for Barcelona (Dec 21, 2004)
Cameroonian international Samuel Eto'o made sure league leaders Barcelona maintained the pressure on their title rivals by scoring a late winner in a 2-1 defeat of Levante. . . . more . . .
FIFA make Spanish pay for racially abusing England players (Dec 21, 2004)
The Spanish football federation has been hit with a 65,000 euro fine by world governing body FIFA on Tuesday to sanction the racist abuse suffered by England's black players in two recent friendly matches. . . . more . . .
Robson admits schoolboy errors condemning West Brom (Dec 21, 2004)
West Brom manager Bryan Robson admits the club will not avoid relegation unless his defenders stop playing like schoolboys. . . . more . . .
Plzen midfielder Limbersky on loan to Spurs (Dec 20, 2004)
Plzen midfielder David Limbersky has been loaned to English Premier League side Tottenham, the player confirmed. . . . more . . .
Chinese star Sun wants to play in Europe after Bernabeu experience (Dec 20, 2004)
Chinese star Sun Xiang wants to play in Europe after getting a taste of what to expect when he took the field in front of 70,000 fans at Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu stadium in a charity match. . . . more . . .
Qatar to face Oman in Gulf Cup final (Dec 20, 2004)
Qatar shocked nine-time champions and favourites Kuwait 2-0 to set up a title clash with Oman in the 17th Gulf Cup. . . . more . . .
Fenerbahce leads booming Turkish league into winter break (Dec 20, 2004)
Istanbul side Fenerbahce led Turkey's championship into its long winter break until January 28 after the best start to a season in the league's history. . . . more . . .
Christmas will clarify title race: Wenger (Dec 20, 2004)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger cranked up the pressure on his rivals by insisting the busy Christmas period will go a long way to discovering who really has the stomach for a gruelling Premiership title race. . . . more . . .
Glazer lines up possible revised bid for Manchester United (Dec 20, 2004)
The board of Manchester United said that US sports tycoon Malcolm Glazer was considering "potential revisions" to his previous unofficial takeover offer for the English football giants. . . . more . . .
Le Havre appeal to CAS over Newcastle's Nzogbia (Dec 20, 2004)
French second division club Le Havre have appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) over what it sees as Newcastle's illegal poaching of one of their players. . . . more . . .
Barcelona in Anelka move (Dec 20, 2004)
Barcelona are ready to make a move for Manchester City's unsettled French star Nicolas Anelka. . . . more . . .
Liverpool face battle for Morientes: agent (Dec 20, 2004)
Liverpool were warned by Fernando Morientes' agent they faced a fight with several European clubs for the Real Madrid striker's signature. . . . more . . .
Brazil top FIFA's world rankings, China, Portugal and Japan make progress (Dec 20, 2004)
World champions Brazil have topped FIFA's world rankings for the third year running, football's world ruling body announced. . . . more . . .
Cantona in TV storm (Dec 20, 2004)
Manchester United great Eric Cantona caused a furore on Sunday night when he used an obscenity in a live interview on television. . . . more . . .
Kewell praised by Benitez after easy Reds win (Dec 20, 2004)
Rafael Benitez hailed Harry Kewell after the Australia international proved the inspiration behind Liverpool's comprehensive 3-1 Premier League victory over Newcastle at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Japan midfielder Ono to have ankle surgery, unlikely to play N.Korea (Dec 20, 2004)
Japanese star Shinji Ono is unlikely to join his national team for a home World Cup qualifier against North Korea in February due to surgery on his injured left ankle. . . . more . . .
Christmas will clarify title race says Wenger (Dec 20, 2004)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger cranked up the pressure on his rivals by insisting the busy Christmas period will go a long way to discovering who really has the stomach for a gruelling Premiership title race. . . . more . . .
Henry waits to be crowned (Dec 20, 2004)
Thierry Henry was to learn later whether he will become the first British-based star to be crowned FIFA World Player of the Year. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho named 2004 FIFA World Footballer of the Year (Dec 20, 2004)
Brazil's Ronaldinho was named 2004 FIFA World Footballer of the Year to cap a fine 12 months for both club and country. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Parker out with broken foot (Dec 20, 2004)
Chelsea midfielder Scott Parker has broken his foot and will be out of action into the New Year, a statement on the Premiership leaders' official website said. . . . more . . .
Happy Valley as Charlton down Fulham (Dec 20, 2004)
Charlton headed into the Christmas period seventh in the Premiership table after a 2-1 win against London rivals Fulham at The Valley. . . . more . . .
Reyes out of Christmas campaign (Dec 20, 2004)
Jose Antonio Reyes was ruled out of Arsenal's Christmas matches after twisting a knee in training. . . . more . . .
Al Hossani puts Oman into final (Dec 20, 2004)
Oman took a big step towards their first ever title after an Imad al-Hossani brace put them into the final of the 17th Arabian Gulf Cup at the expense of Bahrain. . . . more . . .
Campbell wonder-strike rescues Gunners (Dec 19, 2004)
Arsenal had Sol Campbell to thank after his thunderous 25-yard drive plundered three vital points for the visitors in a 1-0 win over Portsmouth at Fratton Park. . . . more . . .
Cantona comes out against Glazer bid (Dec 19, 2004)
Manchester United great Eric Cantona gave his backing to fans' groups opposed to a fresh takeover bid for the Premiership giants by Malcolm Glazer, saying the United States businessman would be better off buying Coca-Cola. . . . more . . .
Udinese's first half blitz stuns Lazio (Dec 19, 2004)
Dark horses Udinese boosted their chances of a claiming place in next season's Champions League with a resounding 3-0 home win over Lazio. . . . more . . .
Baros seals emphatic win over 10-man Newcastle (Dec 19, 2004)
Milan Baros sealed Liverpool's first win in four Premiership games as Newcastle suffered a 3-1 defeat at Anfield after finishing the game with 10 men following Lee Bowyer's second-half dismissal. . . . more . . .
United told to reject new Glazer bid (Dec 19, 2004)
Manchester United's board have been urged by a supporters group to have nothing to do with any fresh bid for the club by United States businessman Malcolm Glazer after reports suggested he was preparing to launch a new takeover bid for the Premiership giants. . . . more . . .
FIFA rules Mexico's leading female player ineligible for mens' team (Dec 19, 2004)
FIFA ruled that Mexico's leading female football player was not eligible to play for a professional men's club in the second division there. . . . more . . .
FIFA targets player burnout ahead of World Cup 2006 (Dec 19, 2004)
FIFA has targeted player burnout in the run-up to the World Cup in 2006, setting a May 14 cut off for all major competitions including domestic cup finals in the season preceding world football's showpiece. . . . more . . .
Benitez confident of keeping Gerrard (Dec 19, 2004)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez says he is convinced that he can hold on to captain Steven Gerrard. . . . more . . .
South Korea beats Germany 3-1 to avenge World Cup defeat (Dec 19, 2004)
South Korea beat soccer powerhouse Germany 3-1 in a friendly avenging its World Cup semi-final defeat in 2002. . . . more . . .
Chelsea stretch lead as United hit form (Dec 19, 2004)
Chelsea have moved six points clear at the top of the English Premiership table after cruising to a 4-0 victory over Norwich City. . . . more . . .
Disenchanted Totti threatens to leave Roma (Dec 19, 2004)
Francesco Totti has threatened to leave Roma if plans are not put in place to ensure the ailing Serie A club are challenging for honours every season. . . . more . . .
Fergie hails back-to-form Scholes (Dec 19, 2004)
Sir Alex Ferguson insisted he never had any doubts about Paul Scholes after the former England midfielder scored twice in Manchester United's 5-2 rout of Crystal Palace. . . . more . . .
No about-turn for Shearer on retirement (Dec 19, 2004)
Alan Shearer has said that he is still determined to hang up his boots at the end of this season. . . . more . . .
Santos beat Vasco to become Brazilian champions (Dec 19, 2004)
Santos were crowned Brazilian first division champions after completing a 2-1 win over Vasco da Gama. . . . more . . .
Espanyol's dull draw is enough to stay second (Dec 19, 2004)
Espanyol's 0-0 draw at dogged bottom club Numancia will definitely not go down as one of the games of the season but it was enough to keep the Barcelona-based club in second place in the Spanish league. . . . more . . .
Pompey confirm Strachan refusal (Dec 19, 2004)
Portsmouth confirmed that Gordon Strachan would not be taking over as the English Premiership side's new manager. . . . more . . .
Arveladze maintains Rangers' title pursuit (Dec 19, 2004)
Shota Arveladze's first-half goal was enough to give Rangers a 1-0 win away at Kilmarnock which left Alex McLeish's men just a point behind leaders and reigning champions Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premier League. . . . more . . .
Chelsea move ahead as Everton held (Dec 18, 2004)
Chelsea moved six points clear at the top of the English Premiership table after cruising to a 4-0 victory over Norwich City. . . . more . . .
Wenger reignites Ruud row (Dec 18, 2004)
Arsene Wenger has renewed his attacks on Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy's honesty just days after being fined by the Football Association (FA) for labelling the Dutch striker a "cheat". . . . more . . .
Chelsea look to clip Canaries' wings (Dec 18, 2004)
Leaders Chelsea welcome Norwich to Stamford Bridge, looking to build on their four-point advantage over second-placed Everton. . . . more . . .
Middlesbrough on goal trail again (Dec 18, 2004)
Middlesbrough maintained the pressure on the Premiership big guns with a 3-0 victory over Aston Villa through goals from Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Joseph-Desire Job and Michael Reiziger. . . . more . . .
Four-star Blues down West Brom (Dec 18, 2004)
Birmingham thrashed West Brom 4-0 at St Andrews to leave their local rivals firmly rooted to the bottom of the English Premiership table. . . . more . . .
Barton takes City into top ten (Dec 18, 2004)
Joey Barton's goal was good enough to give Manchester City a 1-0 win away to Bolton that took Kevin Keegan's men into the top ten of the Premier League. . . . more . . .
AEK Athens sign Serbian international (Dec 18, 2004)
Greek first division outfit AEK Athens signed Serbian international defender Nikola Malbasa on a two-and-a-half year contract from Partizan Belgrade. . . . more . . .
Boumsong upset by taunts (Dec 18, 2004)
Defender Jean-Alain Boumsong's admiration for Rangers fans has taken a knock after he was targetted by some supporters after the UEFA Cup capitulation to Auxerre on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Defoe on fire as Spurs hammer Saints (Dec 18, 2004)
England striker Jermain Defoe scored a hat-trick as Spurs romped to their fourth successive Premiership win with a 5-1 victory over relegation-threatened Southampton. . . . more . . .
High-flying Everton reined in by battling Blackburn (Dec 18, 2004)
High-flying Everton were held to a battling 0-0 draw with Premiership relegation candidates Blackburn. . . . more . . .
Old Firm turn to SPL after Euro flop (Dec 18, 2004)
Rangers and Celtic's European adventures were brought to a halt in the last few weeks meaning both now reluctantly turn their full attention to domestic issues. . . . more . . .
South Korea face tough test from Germany in football friendly (Dec 18, 2004)
South Korea meet Germany in a replay of the 2002 World Cup semi-final billed as a chance to measure how a new generation of players are shaping up for the next World Cup in 2006. . . . more . . .
Great escape keeps Juve four points clear (Dec 18, 2004)
Leaders Juventus were lucky to escape with a 0-0 draw at home to their closest rivals AC Milan which kept them four points clear of the defending Serie A champions. . . . more . . .