Archive soccer news from around the world
New Inter president calls for consistency (Jan 31, 2004)
New Inter Milan president Giacinto Facchetti says the players at the under-achieving Serie A club need to roll up their sleeves if they are to return to winning ways. . . . more . . .
South Korea's Won signs for Sochaux (Jan 31, 2004)
South Korean striker Won Kwang Cho has signed a deal with ambitious French league side Sochaux. . . . more . . .
Van Buyten completes loan move to Man City (Jan 31, 2004)
Marseille's Belgian international defender Daniel Van Buyten has completed a loan move to Manchester City with David Sommeil moving in the other direction, the French club confirmed. . . . more . . .
1,000th-goal man Okocha propels Nigeria past South Africa (Jan 31, 2004)
Nigeria skipper Austin 'Jay Jay' Okocha grabbed the 1,000th goal in the history of the African Nations Cup as the Super Eagles walloped South Africa 4-0 in a Group D clash. . . . more . . .
Goal kings Mboma, Kanoute and Santos are reluctant stars (Jan 31, 2004)
Goal kings Patrick Mboma, Frederic Kanoute and Silva dos Santos are on top of the scoring charts at the African Nations Cup but they would prefer it if nobody paid any attention. . . . more . . .
Belgian football fans face lawsuit over anti-Semitic chants (Jan 31, 2004)
A Belgian minister expressed outrage at anti-Semitic chants made by fans at a recent Belgium-Israel football match, and backed calls for legal action. . . . more . . .
Frankfurt frustrate Bayern, Ailton and Bremen triumphant (Jan 31, 2004)
Reigning champions Bayern Munich fell further off the title pace with a 1-1 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt meaning the favourites are now six points adrift of Werder Bremen who crushed Hertha Berlin 4-0 with Ailton scoring twice. . . . more . . .
Okocha hits landmark as Nigeria and Morocco go on goal rampage (Jan 31, 2004)
Nigeria skipper Jay Jay Okocha grabbed the 1,000th goal in the history of the African Nations Cup as the Super Eagles crushed South Africa 4-0 to put their quarter-finals push back on track. . . . more . . .
FA charge Hasselbaink (Jan 31, 2004)
Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has been charged with violent conduct after the Football Association viewed video evidence of an incident in the FA Cup tie against Scarborough. . . . more . . .
Lyon edge closer to Monaco (Jan 31, 2004)
Lyon's hopes of retaining their French league title received a shot in the arm with a narrow win over plucky relegation strugglers Toulouse. . . . more . . .
Brescia dent Roma's title hopes (Jan 31, 2004)
Title-chasing Roma missed out on the chance to reclaim top spot in Serie A after losing their unbeaten away record in a 1-0 defeat away to Brescia. . . . more . . .
Inter Milan sign Stankovic (Jan 31, 2004)
Inter Milan confirmed the signing of midfielder Dejan Stankovic from Serie A rivals Lazio for a fee believed to be in the region of four million euros (4.95 million dollars). . . . more . . .
Saha and fans give Fergie perfect tonic (Jan 31, 2004)
Louis Saha combined with a packed-out Old Trafford to give embattled Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson the perfect tonic. . . . more . . .
Juventus loan Zalayeta and Fresi to struggling Perugia (Jan 31, 2004)
Italian league champions Juventus have loaned Uruguayan striker Marcelo Zalayeta and experienced defender Salvatore Fresi to struggling Serie A rivals Perugia until the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Helguera fined for slamming Makelele departure (Jan 31, 2004)
Midfield ace Ivan Helguera has been fined by Real Madrid after criticising the club for allowing the departures of Claude Makelele, Fernando Hierro and Aitor Karanka. . . . more . . .
Liverpool fail to take advantage (Jan 31, 2004)
Liverpool failed to make up significant ground on their rivals for a Champions League place after Everton held them in an entertaining but scoreless 170th Merseyside derby. . . . more . . .
Disgraced Nigerian stars head back to Europe (Jan 31, 2004)
Chelsea's Celestine Babayaro, Victor Agali of Schalke 04 and Portsmouth's Yakubu Aiyegbeni were all making their back to their European clubs after being kicked off Nigeria's African Nations Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Second-half blitz sends Celtic closer to 39th title (Jan 31, 2004)
Celtic marched another step nearer to their 39th Scottish title by overrunning Kilmarnock with a five-goal second-half blitz at Parkhead. . . . more . . .
Okocha grabs African Nations Cup 1,000th goal (Jan 31, 2004)
Nigeria star Austin 'Jay Jay' Okocha scored the 1,000th goal in the history of the African Nations Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Keegan delighted at Van Buyten's arrival (Jan 31, 2004)
Manchester City manager Kevin Keegan believes the arrival of Belgian international defender Daniel van Buyten will bolster the club's struggling defence. . . . more . . .
West Brom snap up Skoubo (Jan 31, 2004)
English Division One pacesetters West Bromwich Albion have taken Danish striker Morten Skoubo on loan from Borussia Monchengladbach until the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Arsenal, Chelsea and Juve track Tunisian defender (Jan 31, 2004)
Tunisia's Hatem Trabselsi said he is involved in talks with Arsenal, Chelsea and Juventus about a possible transfer for next season. . . . more . . .
South Africa aim to deliver hammer blow to Nigeria (Jan 31, 2004)
Double champions Nigeria could find themselves on the African Nations Cup scrapheap if they lose to South Africa in a crucial Group D clash in Monastir. . . . more . . .
Auxerre go second after five star display (Jan 31, 2004)
Auxerre moved into second place behind Monaco after a 5-0 demolition of former champions Bordeaux in an early French league game. . . . more . . .
Butt says no to Birmingham (Jan 31, 2004)
Birmingham have conceded they have no chance of signing want-away Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt before the winter transfer window closes. . . . more . . .
Morocco bash Benin and Nations Cup quarter-finals beckon (Jan 31, 2004)
Morocco scored three goals within eight minutes as they beat Benin 4-0 to virtually clinch an African Nations Cup quarter-finals place. . . . more . . .
Give Reyes time urges Wenger (Jan 31, 2004)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is hoping the Gunners fans will give multi-million pound signing Jose Antonio Reyes time to settle in at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Morocco coach backs foreign legion to reach Nations Cup last eight (Jan 31, 2004)
Morocco coach Badou Ezaki believes his decision to bolster his African Nations Cup squad with foreign-based talent will be vindicated by his side taking a huge step towards the quarter-finals at the expense of little Benin. . . . more . . .
United back on top as Leeds edge closer to abyss (Jan 31, 2004)
Manchester United put the boardroom turmoil engulfing the club to one side as they swept back to the top of the English Premiership. . . . more . . .
Celtic sign cheerful Milosevic (Jan 31, 2004)
Celtic have completed the signing of Danny Milosevic until the end of the season after the former Leeds keeper impressed in a recent trial at the club. . . . more . . .
Valencia hit six of the best (Jan 31, 2004)
Brazilian striker Ricardo Oliveira hit a hat-trick as Valencia handed out a 6-1 thrashing of Malaga to motor to provisional pole position in the Spanish football league. . . . more . . .
Nigeria expel three stars for indiscipline (Jan 30, 2004)
Nigeria's troubled African Nations Cup campaign took another turn for the worse when three members of their squad were kicked out for alleged indiscipline. . . . more . . .
Ferguson hits back in transfer controversy (Jan 30, 2004)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has criticized John Magnier and JP McManus by claiming it is incomprehensible he would abuse his position in transfer dealings. . . . more . . .
England's Euro 2004 tune-up in Manchester (Jan 30, 2004)
Sven-Goran Eriksson's England football team will have a final tune-up for the Euro 2004 tournament against Japan and Iceland at the City of Manchester Stadium. . . . more . . .
Kenya loss in Tunisia due to chaotic administration: official (Jan 30, 2004)
Kenyan Sports Minister Najib Balala said Kenya's dismal showing in the African Nations Cup in Tunisia had been caused by lack of proper long-term planning and the chaotic football administration in the country. . . . more . . .
Reyes cleared for Gunners lift-off (Jan 30, 2004)
Arsenal's 17-million-pound signing Jose Antonio Reyes has been cleared to make his debut for the north London club in Sunday's Premiership clash against Manchester City. . . . more . . .
Nigeria expels three stars for indiscipline (Jan 30, 2004)
Nigeria's troubled African Nations Cup campaign took another turn for the worse when three members of their squad were kicked out for alleged indiscipline. . . . more . . .
UEFA reject Cisse appeal (Jan 30, 2004)
France striker Djibril Cisse's hopes of playing at the 2004 European Championship in Portugal were shattered after UEFA's disciplinary commission rejected his appeal against a five-match ban. . . . more . . .
Players' pay-cut to save Leeds (Jan 30, 2004)
Leeds United's gamble that their players would rescue the club from immediate financial administration appears to have paid off with the players agreeing to take a 25 percent wage deferral. . . . more . . .
Mali and Senegal look for last eight push (Jan 30, 2004)
Top strikers Frederic Kanoute, Mohammed Sissoko and El Hadji Diouf aim to grab the headlines by sparking Mali and Senegal into one big push towards the quarter-finals of the African Nations Cup. . . . more . . .
Chelsea net 10-million pound Parker (Jan 30, 2004)
Chelsea have signed Charlton midfielder Scott Parker for 10 million pounds, the west London club confirmed. . . . more . . .
PSG facing must-win clash at Monaco (Jan 30, 2004)
Paris Saint Germain face a must-win clash at Monaco's Louis II fortress if they are to maintain a realistic hope of reeling in the league leaders. . . . more . . .
Diouf aims to take out frustrations on Kenya (Jan 30, 2004)
Senegal's former African Footballer of the Year El Hadji Diouf aims to take out his mounting frustrations on little Kenya when the two sides meet in the Nations Cup. . . . more . . .
Ferguson accused or racially abusing opponent (Jan 30, 2004)
Everton striker Duncan Ferguson was Friday accused of racially abusing Fulham forward Luis Boa Morte during last weekend's FA Cup clash between the two clubs. . . . more . . .
Mboma destroys Zimbabwe while Algeria see off Egypt (Jan 30, 2004)
Veteran striker Patrick Mboma grabbed the first hat-trick of the tournament as defending champions Cameroon handed out a 5-3 drubbing to Zimbabwe in a thrilling African Nations Cup clash in Sfax. . . . more . . .
Senegal edge closer to quarter-finals (Jan 30, 2004)
Mamadou Niang scored twice as Senegal eased past Kenya 3-0 to edge closer to the quarter-finals of the African Nations Cup. . . . more . . .
Nigeria ring changes against South Africa (Jan 30, 2004)
Nigeria will make at least two changes against South Africa on Saturday to the team that lost 1-0 to Morocco in the opening Group D fixture at the African Nations Cup here in Tunisia. . . . more . . .
Leeds handed deadline extension as players' take pay-cut (Jan 30, 2004)
Leeds United were given a double boost in their bid to stave off immediate financial administration when their players agreed to a 25 percent wage deferral and their creditors' granted an extension to a crucial deadline. . . . more . . .
Ferguson accused of racially abusing opponent (Jan 30, 2004)
Everton striker Duncan Ferguson was Friday accused of racially abusing Fulham forward Luis Boa Morte during last weekend's FA Cup clash between the two clubs. . . . more . . .
Kanoute leads Mali into last eight while Senegal crush Kenya (Jan 30, 2004)
Frederic Kanoute struck his third goal of the tournament to help lead Mali into the quarter-finals of the African Nations Cup on Friday while World Cup quarter-finalists Senegal edged closer to the last eight with a 3-0 against Kenya. . . . more . . .
Figo concerned over player overload after Feher death (Jan 30, 2004)
Portuguese international Luis Figo has said the on-field death of Benfica's Miklos Feher may be a sign that professional footballers are risking their health by taking part in too many competitions. . . . more . . .
Kanoute and Sissoko can make Mali great, says coach (Jan 30, 2004)
Mali coach Henri Stambouli has backed imported strikers Frederic Kanoute and Mohammed Sissoko to transform his team into genuine African Nations Cup contenders. . . . more . . .
Rueda named new Colombia coach (Jan 30, 2004)
Reinaldo Rueda, who led Colombia to third place in the under-20 world championships in the United Arab Emirates late last year, was named as the new senior coach. . . . more . . .
Kenyan coach pleads with Oliech - don't leave us (Jan 30, 2004)
Kenyan coach Jacob Mulee has pleaded with star striker Dennis Oliech not to turn his back on his country and accept a big money offer to switch nationality to the oil and gas rich Gulf State of Qatar. . . . more . . .
Espanyol's Luis Fernandez mulls return to France (Jan 30, 2004)
Luis Fernandez, French coach of Spanish first division strugglers Espanyol, said he may return to France in the summer for family reasons. . . . more . . .
Boa Morte accuses Ferguson of racial abuse (Jan 30, 2004)
Everton striker Duncan Ferguson was accused of racially abusing Fulham forward Luis Boa Morte during last weekend's FA Cup clash between the two clubs. . . . more . . .
Rape charges against Leeds player dropped (Jan 30, 2004)
Rape charges against Leeds United footballer Jody Morris were dropped after prosecutors decided there was no prospect of them obtaining a conviction. . . . more . . .
Pompey sign Polish striker (Jan 29, 2004)
Portsmouth signed Polish striker Sebastian Olszar on a short-term contract as the south coast club looked to strengthen their squad in the quest for Premiership survival. . . . more . . .
Time up for Besiktas, Galatasaray in Turkey Cup (Jan 29, 2004)
Turkish champions Besiktas and fallen giants Galatasaray have made embarrasing exits from the Turkey Cup after both Istanbul teams suffered humiliating defeats. . . . more . . .
Cameroon star Eto'o wants Africa on footballing map (Jan 29, 2004)
Cameroon striking sensation Samuel Eto'o claims the 2004 African Cup of Nations offers the perfect platform for African footballers to put the continent firmly on the footballing map. . . . more . . .
Unhappy Hedman goes on loan to Ancona (Jan 29, 2004)
Celtic's Swedish goalkeeper Magnus Hedman has joined Serie A's bottom club Ancona for the rest of the season in an attempt to keep his place in the national team. . . . more . . .
Algeria fans on song ahead of clash with 'old enemy' Egypt (Jan 29, 2004)
Algeria got a head start hours before their African Nations Cup Group C showdown against 'old enemy' Egypt as they outnumbered and outsang their Egyptian counterparts here to set the tone for what is expected to be a tensed and physical clash. . . . more . . .
Schafer keeps faith with sluggish Lions (Jan 29, 2004)
Cameroon coach Winfried Schafer won't be tempted to make wholesale changes for the African Nations Cup clash against Zimbabwe despite their sluggish opening 1-1 draw against Algeria. . . . more . . .
Rosicky, Dede, Ewerthon on Bayern shopping list (Jan 29, 2004)
Bayern Munich president Franz Beckenbauer has admitted the German champions are pondering a triple raid on cash-troubled rivals Borussia Dortmund with Tomas Rosicky, Dede and Ewerthon all targets. . . . more . . .
Merson tip puts Ritchie back in the Scotland frame (Jan 29, 2004)
Paul Ritchie is set for a Scotland recall thanks to a tip from former England international Paul Merson. . . . more . . .
Spanish star Reyes faces Arsenal delay (Jan 29, 2004)
Spanish super winger Jose Antonio Reyes might be banned from Arsenal's Premiership match with Manchester City on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Man United set to pay Van Nistelrooy new 23 million pound deal (Jan 29, 2004)
Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is reportedly set to sign a new 90,000-pound-a-week (164,000 dollar-a-week) five-year deal before the weekend. . . . more . . .
Bitter rivals Algeria and Egypt to settle old scores (Jan 29, 2004)
Bitter rivals Algeria and Egypt renew their long-running feud when they clash in the African Nations Cup under the watchful eyes of 25,000 fans and a beefed-up security presence. . . . more . . .
Injury cloud over Chelsea pair Terry and Duff (Jan 29, 2004)
Chelsea defender John Terry and winger Damien Duff may be ruled out of action for three weeks after picking up injuries at a Spanish training camp. . . . more . . .
Freund fined after unfriendly outburst (Jan 29, 2004)
Struggling Kaiserslautern have fined former German international midfielder Steffen Freund for criticising the spirit in the camp. . . . more . . .
Nigeria want foreign coach for World Cup qualifiers (Jan 29, 2004)
Nigeria are determined to hire a foreign coach for the World Cup qualifiers but it will be down to the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) to guarantee his salary. . . . more . . .
Mulama breaks Kenya's 30-year jinx (Jan 29, 2004)
Titus Mulama was the only Kenyan player to look back on his team's 3-1 defeat to Mali with a degree of satisfaction - it was the first African Mations Cup finals goal from open play the country had scored in over 30 years. . . . more . . .
Tunisia into last eight but locked in 'cheats' row (Jan 29, 2004)
Hosts Tunisia became the first team to reach the quarter-finals of the African Nations Cup but their celebrations were overshadowed by accusations of cheating levelled at them by beaten opponents Democratic Republic of Congo. . . . more . . .
Villa and Newcastle agree Solano fee (Jan 29, 2004)
Aston Villa have agreed a fee with Newcastle United for their Premiership rivals' Peru winger Nolberto Solano. . . . more . . .
Ten-man Algeria snatch late winner against 'old enemy' Egypt (Jan 29, 2004)
Ten-man Algeria scored a late winner against bitter rivals Egypt in an African Nations Group C tie to win the Battle of Sousse 2-1 at the Olympic Stadium. . . . more . . .
Solskjaer set for reserve match (Jan 29, 2004)
Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is due to make his return from knee surgery in a reserve-team match against Aston Villa next week, Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson said. . . . more . . .
Stuttgart close on Swiss star Yakin (Jan 29, 2004)
Bundesliga title hopefuls VfB Stuttgart are closing in on FC Basel playmaker Hakan Yakin as they look to bolster their shot-shy forward line. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy signs new United contract (Jan 29, 2004)
Ruud van Nistelrooy has signed a new contract with Manchester United that will keep the Dutch striker at Old Trafford until June 2008, the English Premiership champions said. . . . more . . .
Winter break plans backed despite "wife" factor (Jan 29, 2004)
Leading figures in English football backed plans to introduce a mid-winter break from next season, despite a claim from Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp that his players would rather be training than "sitting about with the wife all day". . . . more . . .
Real Madrid says Figo staying put (Jan 29, 2004)
Portuguese star Luis Figo will stay on at Real Madrid for the foreseeable future, the club's director of sport Jorge Valdano said in an interview. . . . more . . .
Parker set to join Chelsea as Charlton agree to resume talks (Jan 29, 2004)
Scott Parker looks set to become Chelsea's latest big-money signing after Charlton agreed to talks aimed at agreeing a price for the midfielder before the transfer window closes on Saturday. . . . more . . .
LuaLua faces ban as Cup chiefs tell Congo to prove allegations (Jan 29, 2004)
Disgraced striker Lomana LuaLua continued his damning attack on Tunisia as African Nations Cup organisers said that they would investigate any complaints the Democratic Republic of Congo team had about their treatment here. . . . more . . .
Premiership to penalise defaulting clubs (Jan 29, 2004)
English Premiership clubs who go into administration will be docked nine points, a meeting of league chairmen agreed. . . . more . . .
Germany-Holland rated Euro 2004 flash-point (Jan 29, 2004)
Germany's potentially explosive match with Holland in Oporto has been targetted by security officials as a flash-point for hooliganism at the Euro 2004 finals in June. . . . more . . .
Solano joins Villa (Jan 29, 2004)
Nolberto Solano joined Aston Villa in a 1.5 million pounds (2.7mn dollars) move from English Premiership rivals Newcastle. . . . more . . .
Gladbach swoop for Madrid defender (Jan 29, 2004)
Borussia Monchengladbach have taken promising defender Ruben Rocha Gonzalez on loan from Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Jones back at Wolves (Jan 29, 2004)
Wales international goalkeeper Paul Jones will join Wolves battle against relegation after completing a 250,000-pound move from Southampton. . . . more . . .
Howey joins Bolton (Jan 29, 2004)
Steve Howey joined Bolton Wanderers from Premiership rivals Leicester on a short-term contract, subject to a medical. . . . more . . .
Cameroon keeper Kameni looks for way out (Jan 29, 2004)
Cameroon goalkeeper Idriss Kameni hopes a successful African Nations Cup will win him a move away from French second division side Le Havre. . . . more . . .
Benfica stage first training session after Feher death (Jan 29, 2004)
Benfica staged their first training session since their Hungarian player Miklos Feher died during a match from an apparent heart attack. . . . more . . .
Cameroon hat-trick hero Mboma destroys Zimbabwe (Jan 29, 2004)
Veteran striker Patrick Mboma grabbed a hat-trick as defending champions Cameroon handed out a 5-3 drubbing to Zimbabwe in a thrilling African Nations Cup tie. . . . more . . .
Man City chase Marseille defender Van Buyten (Jan 29, 2004)
Manchester City have made a bid for Olympique Marseille's Belgian defender Daniel Van Buyten, offering three million euros plus French defender David Sommeil. . . . more . . .
Spaniard Jaime returns to Hannover (Jan 29, 2004)
Hannover have taken Spanish midfielder Jaime Sanchez Fernandez on loan from Deportivo La Coruna until the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Rio money helps crisis club Leeds (Jan 28, 2004)
Leeds United, hunting for 5 million pounds to survive to the end of the season, have received 1.5 million pounds from Manchester United as the final settlement on Rio Ferdinand's transfer to Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Reyes passes medical while Henry's future is assured (Jan 28, 2004)
Arsenal's decision to make young Spanish star Jose Antonio Reyes the club's biggest ever signing will have no impact on Thierry Henry's future, chairman Peter Hill-Wood has vowed. . . . more . . .
Real move into last four (Jan 28, 2004)
Real Madrid swept into the last four of the Spanish Cup when goals from Raul and Zinedine Zidane gave them a 2-1 victory over Valencia at the Mestalla Stadium and a convincing 5-1 win over two legs. . . . more . . .
English Premiership chiefs back winter break (Jan 28, 2004)
England's 20 Premiership clubs have backed the principle of introducing a two-week winter break during the football season. . . . more . . .
Lyon savage Bordeaux to move into second (Jan 28, 2004)
Two-time defending champions Lyon moved to within six points of French league leaders Monaco after running out 3-0 winners over Bordeaux. . . . more . . .
Tunisia into last eight but locked in 'cheats' row (Jan 28, 2004)
Hosts Tunisia became the first team to reach the quarter- finals of the African Nations Cup but their celebrations were overshadowed by accusations of cheating levelled at them by beaten opponents Democratic Republic of Congo. . . . more . . .
Mediocre Milan claim top spot in Italy (Jan 28, 2004)
European champions AC Milan replaced AS Roma at the top of Italy's Serie A despite playing way below their best, edging Siena 2-1 in a rearranged league match. . . . more . . .
Fergie pays price of feud with Magnier (Jan 28, 2004)
The price of Sir Alex Ferguson's feud with Manchester United's biggest shareholder became clear when the most successful manager in British football was forced to settle for a drastically scaled down new contract. . . . more . . .
Super sub Kamanzi's late goal keeps Rwandan hopes alive (Jan 28, 2004)
Debutants Rwanda kept their African Nations Cup hopes alive when they forced Guinea to a 1-1 draw in a Group A match at the October 15 Stadium. . . . more . . .
Feher laid to rest in Hungary after emotional farewell (Jan 28, 2004)
Nearly a thousand fans, family and teammates paid their final respects to Hungarian international Miklos Feher, who collapsed and died when playing for his club Benfica in Portugal on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Tunisia first to reach Nations Cup quarter-finals (Jan 28, 2004)
Hosts Tunisia became the first country to reach the African Nations Cup quarter-finals with a 3-0 victory over 10-man Democratic Republic of Congo. . . . more . . .
LuaLua threatens to quit as Congo rage at Tunisia (Jan 28, 2004)
Democratic Republic of Congo skipper Lomana LuaLua threatened to quit international football after being sent off in a stormy African Nations Cup clash with Tunisia. . . . more . . .
Boro's League Cup semi with Arsenal called off (Jan 28, 2004)
Middlesbrough's League Cup semi-final second leg tie against Arsenal has been postponed because of the weather. . . . more . . .
LuaLua red-carded as Nations Cup tie erupts (Jan 28, 2004)
Democratic Republic of Congo skipper and Newcastle striker Lomana LuaLua was sent-off after 38 minutes of a bad-tempered African Nations Cup clash against Tunisia. . . . more . . .
Back surgery rules out Veron for three months (Jan 28, 2004)
Chelsea midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron has undergone surgery for a herniated disc and will be out of action for three months, it was reported. . . . more . . .
Eto'o backs Mboma to keep shining (Jan 28, 2004)
Samuel Eto'o believes that his veteran striking teammate Patrick Mboma will fire the goals that will hand Cameroon a third successive African Nations Cup title and justify his controversial selection for the team. . . . more . . .
Houllier blasts Boumsong (Jan 28, 2004)
The war of words between Gerard Houllier and Jean-Alain Boumsong intensified when the Liverpool boss said it was the Auxerre player, not he, who had gone back on his word over the French international defender's proposed move to Anfield collapsed. . . . more . . .
FIFA ready to sign up to world anti-doping code in May (Jan 28, 2004)
World football's governing body is ready to adopt the World Anti-Doping Agency's code in time for the Olympic Games in Athens, FIFA said after a meeting between its president Sepp Blatter and WADA chairman Dick Pound. . . . more . . .
Lokomotiv sign Sychev from Marseille (Jan 28, 2004)
Russian Premier League side Lokomotiv Moscow boosted their forward line by signing Russian international striker Dmitry Sychev from French First Division side Marseille, the club announced. . . . more . . .
Doctor's chief says Portugal is ready for Euro 2004 despite Feher death (Jan 28, 2004)
Portugal will be able to handle medical emergencies during the Euro 2004 football finals this summer, the head of country's association of doctors said. . . . more . . .
Jones set for Wolves move (Jan 28, 2004)
Wales international goalkeeper Paul Jones was set to sign for Wolves after being released from a month-long loan deal at Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Antic takes over at Celta Vigo (Jan 28, 2004)
Former Barcelona and Real Madrid coach Raddy Antic is to take over at Champions League contenders Celta Vigo after Miguel Angel Lotina was sacked, the Spanish first division side announced. . . . more . . .
Pompey agree deal for Anderlecht striker Mornar (Jan 28, 2004)
Belgian side Anderlecht sold Croatia striker Ivica Mornar to English Premiership club Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
Blackburn sign Gray (Jan 27, 2004)
English Premiership strugglers Blackburn Rovers signed former England international defender Michael Gray from First Division Sunderland on a two-and-a-half year contract. . . . more . . .
Swedish Fourth Division player dies (Jan 27, 2004)
An amateur football player in Sweden's fourth division died of unknown causes as he was warming up for training on Monday, his club told AFP. . . . more . . .
Ancelotti warns Milan against complacency (Jan 27, 2004)
AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti wants his players to treat Wednesday's league match against Siena like a Champions League game. . . . more . . .
Arsenal poised to snap up Sevilla striker Reyes (Jan 27, 2004)
Arsenal are poised to sign Jose Antonio Reyes from Spanish club Sevilla for 30 million euros (20 million pounds). . . . more . . .
Lalas named general manager-president of San Jose (Jan 27, 2004)
The San Jose Earthquakes appointed former US national team defender Alexi Lalas general manager and president amid reports the Major League Soccer outfit was being sold to Mexican investors. . . . more . . .
PSG loan out Nigerian teenage star to Bastia (Jan 27, 2004)
Nigeria's international teenaged striker Bartholomew Ogbeche was sent on loan by French championship highflyers Paris Saint Germain to rivals Bastia. . . . more . . .
Marseille settle for a point at Metz (Jan 27, 2004)
Marseille were forced to field a virtual second-strong team but salvaged a point against Metz when Didier Drogba scored his 12th league goal of the season to secure a 1-1 draw. . . . more . . .
I haven't forgotten Tottenham, says hero Kanoute (Jan 27, 2004)
Frederic Kanoute scored twice as Mali opened up their African Nations Cup campaign with a 3-1 win over Kenya and then pleaded with Tottenham fans not to turn against him for opting to come to Tunisia rather than stay and play in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Benin aim to compound South Africa's misery (Jan 27, 2004)
Eight years after winning an emotional African Nations Cup crown on home soil, South Africa open their 2004 finals campaign against little Benin with the team split over financial rewards and with their build-up wrecked by a late change in coach. . . . more . . .
Dalmat calls on Tottenham to act (Jan 27, 2004)
French striker Stephane Dalmat has called on Tottenham to start contract talks if they want to make his move to White Hart Lane from Inter Milan permanent. . . . more . . .
Benfica stadium becomes shrine for Feher following on-field death (Jan 27, 2004)
Benfica's new stadium in Lisbon has turned into a temporary shrine to Miklos Feher, as a steady stream of fans brave rainy weather to pay their respects to the coffin of the Hungarian striker who died while playing for the team. . . . more . . .
Super sub Hadji kills off Nigeria (Jan 27, 2004)
Super sub Youssef Hadji struck a late goal to give former champions Morocco a 1-0 win over Nigeria in the African Nations Cup. . . . more . . .
Arsenal in record deal for Sevilla forward Reyes (Jan 27, 2004)
Arsenal have smashed the club's transfer record with the capture of exciting young Spaniard Jose Antonio Reyes from Sevilla in a deal worth up to 20 million pounds (30 million euros). . . . more . . .
South Africa bury troubles with battling victory (Jan 27, 2004)
South Africa, whose build-up to the African Nations Cup was dogged by player-power disputes and cash rows, buried their troubles with a 2-0 victory over newcomers Benin. . . . more . . .
Bolton into League Cup final despite Villa scare (Jan 27, 2004)
Bolton Wanderers booked their place in this season's League Cup final despite a 2-0 defeat against Aston Villa. . . . more . . .
Leeds survival hopes rise as takeover talks continue (Jan 27, 2004)
Leeds United's hopes of staving off financial collapse rose on when a consortium bidding to take over the cash-strapped club said they were in "serious" negotiations with creditors owed more than 80 million pounds. . . . more . . .
Queiroz upset by "tragic" death of Benfica star (Jan 27, 2004)
Real Madrid's Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz said he was deeply saddened by the death at the weekend during a top-flight match of Benfica's Hungarian star Miklos Feher. . . . more . . .
Rosicky puts Chelsea move on hold (Jan 27, 2004)
Czech international midfielder Tomas Rosicky has cut short negotiations over a possible move to English Premiership big-spenders to see out the season with German side Borussia Dortmund. . . . more . . .
Liverpool striker Heskey faces injury lay-off (Jan 27, 2004)
Liverpool striker Emile Heskey may be out for three weeks after damaging a hamstring in the FA Cup win against Newcastle. . . . more . . .
Morocco and Nigeria looking for lost glory in Tunisia (Jan 27, 2004)
Morocco and Nigeria, who meet in a Group D tie, will be using the 2004 African Nations Cup to relaunch their international status following a steady decline in fortunes. . . . more . . .
Kanoute at the double while Burkina hold Senegal (Jan 27, 2004)
Tottenham Hotspur striker Freddie Kanoute stole the headlines as he scored twice to give Mali an opening 3-1 African Nations Cup over Kenya while co-favourites Senegal could only draw 0-0 with Burkina Faso in the other Group B match. . . . more . . .
Bayern's Kahn doubtful for Bundesliga restart (Jan 27, 2004)
Bayern Munich's German international goalkeeper Oliver Kahn is a doubt for the restart of the Bundesliga on Saturday after sustaining a thigh injury. . . . more . . .
Bergkamp pleads for patience for Bentley (Jan 27, 2004)
Dutch master striker Dennis Bergkamp has pleaded for patience for teenage forward David Bentley who stole the show in Arsenal's FA Cup win over Birmingham. . . . more . . .
Hungarian soccer chiefs shocked by Feher death (Jan 27, 2004)
Hungarian soccer chiefs reacted with shock to the death of international striker Miklos Feher who collapsed after an apparent heart attack playing for his Portuguese club Benfica. . . . more . . .
Irish racing tycoons tighten screw on Manchester United (Jan 27, 2004)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson was expected to sign a rolling contract worth around four million pounds a year this week after the English champions gave in to pressure from Irish racing tycoon John Magnier to scrap plans for a four year deal. . . . more . . .
Wales make Euro 2004 appeal after Russian fails dope test (Jan 26, 2004)
Wales lodged an official protest in a bid to be included in the Euro 2004 Championships after it was revealed a Russian player failed a drugs test during the qualifying play-offs. . . . more . . .
Houllier misled me says Boumsong (Jan 26, 2004)
French international defender Jean-Alain Boumsong has hit out at Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier, accusing him of 'leading him up the river' by indicating that the Premiership club wanted to sign him from Auxerre. . . . more . . .
Arsenal face Chelsea in FA Cup (Jan 26, 2004)
Holders Arsenal will play London rivals Chelsea in the FA Cup for the fourth successive season here Monday after the clubs were paired together in the showcase fifth round match. . . . more . . .
Zidane to testify in Juventus doping trial (Jan 26, 2004)
Real Madrid star Zinedine Zidane arrived at court to testify in the Juventus doping trial. . . . more . . .
Bologna could lose Nakata on World Cup duty (Jan 26, 2004)
Serie A side Bologna may have to release star Japanese playmaker Hidetoshi Nakata for two 2006 World Cup qualifiers it was revealed. . . . more . . .
Villa uncertain over Angel injury (Jan 26, 2004)
Aston Villa were still no wiser about the leg injury that has ruled out leading scorer Juan Pablo Angel from the League Cup semi-final, second leg match with Bolton. . . . more . . .
Henry would never accept Roman lure (Jan 26, 2004)
Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira says team-mate Thierry Henry would turn down millions to join London rivals Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Benfica's Feher dies after suffering heart attack during match (Jan 26, 2004)
Benfica's Hungarian international striker Miklos Feher collapsed and died after suffering a heart attack during the Portuguese giants league game against Vitoria Guimaraes, the club announced. . . . more . . .
Maghreb nations on a high (Jan 26, 2004)
North Africa's hopes of breaking the Cameroon stranglehold on the Nations Cup have got off to a flying start with Tunisia and Egypt both winning their opening matches and Algeria battling back for a 1-1 draw with the title-holders. . . . more . . .
Cole ban upheld after appeal fails (Jan 26, 2004)
Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole lost his appeal against a two-match disciplinary ban. . . . more . . .
Feher's autopsy proves inconclusive (Jan 26, 2004)
The autopsy on Hungarian international striker Miklos Feher who collapsed and died playing for Benfica on Sunday has proved to be inconclusive according to the Portuguese prosecutor-general. . . . more . . .
Battling Burkinabe upset wasteful Senegal (Jan 26, 2004)
Burkina Faso produced the second upset of the 2004 African Nations Cup by holding highly rated Senegal to a goalless draw in a lively Group B clash. . . . more . . .
Everton declare Butt interest (Jan 26, 2004)
Everton became the latest Premiership club to express an interest in signing Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt. . . . more . . .
Keegan sympathises with Ellegaard (Jan 26, 2004)
Manchester City manager Kevin Keegan refused to slate Kevin Ellegaard after the young keeper's error gifted Tottenham an equaliser in a 1-1 FA Cup fourth round draw. . . . more . . .
Wenger tells FIFA to scrap tournaments (Jan 26, 2004)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger called on world football's governing body FIFA to scrap tournaments and games he said were of no interest to fans. . . . more . . .
Leeds cling to hopes of 11th hour reprieve (Jan 26, 2004)
Leeds United hoped to agree a stay of execution with creditors after it emerged that a group of local businessmen were ready to buy the English Premiership club for 25 million pounds (45.6 million dollars). . . . more . . .
Boro open talks to sign Mills (Jan 26, 2004)
Middlesbrough have confirmed they have begun negotiations with financially stricken Leeds over a permanent move for England international defender Danny Mills. . . . more . . .
It may be bye bye to Jay Jay at Bolton (Jan 26, 2004)
Nigerian star Jay-Jay Okocha could have to leave Premiership side Bolton because he may prove to be too expensive to sign to a new contract admitted the team's manager Sam Allardyce. . . . more . . .
Zidane admits using creatine in Juventus doping trial (Jan 26, 2004)
Real Madrid star Zinedine Zidane admitted at the Juventus doping trial he took the muscle growth supplement creatine while he played in Italy. . . . more . . .
Leeds given extra-time by creditors (Jan 26, 2004)
Leeds United agreed a four-day stay of execution with creditors after it emerged that a group of local businessmen were ready to buy the English Premiership club for 25 million pounds (45.6 million dollars). . . . more . . .
Rangers reunite de Boer twins (Jan 26, 2004)
Rangers reunited the de Boer twins when they signed defender Frank from Turkish side Galtasaray. . . . more . . .
Obasanjo urges Nigeria on to glory in African Nations Cup (Jan 26, 2004)
On the eve of Nigeria's first match in the African Nations Cup, President Olusegun Obasanjo urged the Super Eagles to justify the hopes of Nigerian fans and the fears of the bookmakers. . . . more . . .
King Kanoute's double rescues Mali (Jan 26, 2004)
Frederic Kanoute justified his controversial switch of allegiance from France to Mali by scoring twice to fire his new team to a 3-1 win over Kenya in the African Nations Cup. . . . more . . .
Benfica's Feher dies after collapsing on pitch (Jan 26, 2004)
Hungarian striker Miklos Feher became the second international footballer in the last seven months to die during a game when he collapsed after being yellow-carded while playing for Benfica. . . . more . . .
Manchester United launch internal probe into transfer dealings (Jan 26, 2004)
Manchester United are to hold an internal investigation into recent player transfers, the club said in response to newspaper allegations of potential financial impropriety. . . . more . . .
Bajevic calls it quits at AEK Athens (Jan 26, 2004)
Serbian-born coach Dusan Bajevic quit Greek first division side AEK Athens after a group of the club's fans verbally abused his family during a match at the weekend. . . . more . . .
Kenyan football fans dismayed with team's feeble start (Jan 26, 2004)
Kenyan football fans expressed dismay after their national squad the Harambee Stars failed to live up to expectations when they went down 3-1 to Mali in their opening African Nations Cup Group C in Bizerte. . . . more . . .
I'm just not sharp enough, moans LuaLua (Jan 26, 2004)
Newcastle United striker Lomana LuaLua blamed his lack of first team action at the English Premiership giants for his mediocre performance in the Democratic Republic of Congo's 2-1 defeat to Guinea in their opening African Nations Cup clash. . . . more . . .
Kanoute at the double while Burkina hold Senegal (Jan 26, 2004)
Tottenham Hotspur striker Freddie Kanoute stole the headlines as he scored twice to give Mali an opening 3-1 African Nations Cup over Kenya while co-favourites Senegal could only draw 0-0 with Burkina Faso in the other Group B match. . . . more . . .
Ferguson in Old Trafford battle (Jan 26, 2004)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson faces a crucial week with the English champions facing a challenge from major shareholder John Magnier over the Scot's future. . . . more . . .
Benfica's Feher dies after suffering heart attack during match: report (Jan 25, 2004)
Benfica's Hungarian international striker Miklos Feher collapsed and died after suffering a heart attack during the Portuguese giants league game against Vitoria, public radio RSP announced. . . . more . . .
Algeria hit back to hold African giants Cameroon (Jan 25, 2004)
Algeria sprung the first surprise of the African Nations Cup by coming from behind to draw 1-1 with title holders Cameroon. . . . more . . .
Monaco pushed to penalty kicks by valiant Valenciennes (Jan 25, 2004)
French league leaders Monaco were given a fright by battling Valenciennes before eventually winning their last 32 French Cup tie 4-1 on penalty kicks. . . . more . . .
Champions Cameroon fired up to beat Algeria (Jan 25, 2004)
Skipper Rigobert Song believes defending champions Cameroon are primed for several reasons to beat Algeria in their opening game of the African Nations Cup crown as they seek a third successive title and fifth in all. . . . more . . .
Ferguson poised to sign new United contract: report (Jan 25, 2004)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is poised to sign a new contract that will keep him at Old Trafford until 2007, according to a report in a British weekly tabloid. . . . more . . .
Everton out for revenge against Fulham (Jan 25, 2004)
Everton defender Dave Unsworth said Fulham's Premiership victory over them two weeks ago has fuelled their desire to turn the tables in the FA Cup fourth round clash at Goodison Park. . . . more . . .
City seek revenge 23 years later (Jan 25, 2004)
Manchester City go into their FA Cup clash with Tottenham bidding to turn around their season -- as well as seeking revenge for their defeat in one of the all-time classic Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Mido touch ready to turn Zimbabwe hopes to stone (Jan 25, 2004)
Egypt's most expensive and controversial footballer Ahmed 'Mido' Hossam believes his golden talents will be enough to crush Zimbabwe when the two sides meet in an African Nations Cup Group C clash. . . . more . . .
City and Spurs set for Cup replay after thriller (Jan 25, 2004)
History repeated itself as Manchester City and Tottenham drew 1-1 in an FA Cup tie - the same scoreline as the 1981 final which Spurs won in a replay. . . . more . . .
Camara goal sets up Guinea's winning fightback (Jan 25, 2004)
Former Liverpool striker Titi Camara inspired Guinea to a second half fightback and a 2-1 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African Nations Cup. . . . more . . .
Four-time winners Egypt sneak past brave new boys Zimbabwe (Jan 25, 2004)
Four-time African champions Egypt fought back from a goal down to defeat newcomers Zimbabwe 2-1 in an African Nations Cup Group C match. . . . more . . .
Manchester United see off brave Northampton (Jan 25, 2004)
Manchester United avoided an FA Cup upset with a 3-0 win against battling minnows Northampton Town here at Sixfields. . . . more . . .
Four-time winners Egypt sink brave new boys Zimbabwe (Jan 25, 2004)
Four-time African champions Egypt fought back from a goal down to defeat newcomers Zimbabwe 2-1 in an African Nations Cup Group C match. . . . more . . .
Robson threatens to quit Newcastle (Jan 25, 2004)
Newcastle manager Bobby Robson has threatened to quit following newspaper reports of a club insider slamming Carl Cort's performances. . . . more . . .
Shareholders' concern over transfers (Jan 25, 2004)
Leading shareholders John Magnier and JP McManus are reported to be concerned about the way in which Manchester United conduct transfers. . . . more . . .
Egypt take advantage as Cameroon are held (Jan 25, 2004)
Defending champions Cameroon, bidding for their third successive African Nations Cup crown and fifth in all, suffered a setback in their opening match of the 2004 tournament when they were held to a 1-1 draw by Algeria in Sousse. . . . more . . .
Benfica's Feher suffers heart attack during match: report (Jan 25, 2004)
Benfica's Hungarian international striker Miklos Feher has suffered a suspected heart attack during the Portuguese giants league game against Vitoria Guimaraes, state broadcaster RTP reported, quoting hospital sources. . . . more . . .
Blades chop down Forest in Cup walkover (Jan 25, 2004)
Jack Lester scored against his old side as Sheffield United, last season's beaten semi-finalists, continued their run in this season's FA Cup with a 3-0 fourth round win over struggling First Division rivals Nottingham Forest. . . . more . . .
Valencia lose at Osasuna, Real Madrid back on top (Jan 25, 2004)
Valencia handed the Spanish league lead back to Real Madrid after they surprisingly lost 1-0 at home to Osasuna. . . . more . . .
Wolves get a Cup hammering (Jan 25, 2004)
English Premiership strugglers Wolves were left to focus on survival after losing 3-1 to First Division West Ham in the fourth round of the FA Cup. . . . more . . .
Jeffers late show keeps Everton in FA Cup (Jan 25, 2004)
Francis Jeffers' last-minute goal salvaged a 1-1 draw for Everton against Premiership rivals Fulham in their FA Cup fourth round tie here at Goodison Park. . . . more . . .
Five-star Milan close the gap on sloppy Roma (Jan 25, 2004)
Roma's title hopes suffered a setback after they were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw at home to plucky Udinese. . . . more . . .
Robben will go to Chelsea over my dead body says dad (Jan 25, 2004)
Highly-rated Dutch teenage striker Arjen Robben has been ruled out from joining bigspending Premiership side Chelsea by his father who blasted the London side for lacking any structure and owner Roman Abramovich as having no idea what football was about. . . . more . . .
Gunners blow past Boro as Scarborough put the wind up Chelsea (Jan 25, 2004)
FA Cup holders Arsenal swept into the fifth round of this season's tournament with a 4-1 defeat of Middlesbrough as Chelsea were given an almighty scare by non-league minnows Scarborough. . . . more . . .
O'Neill out to calm animosity in Hearts cup clash (Jan 24, 2004)
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is attempting to prevent any unnecessary animosity in their Scottish Cup tie against Hearts by proving John Hartson did not elbow Andy Webster. . . . more . . .
Tunisia calls on Asian expertise for Nations Cup opening (Jan 24, 2004)
Tunisia brought a little bit of Asia to Africa as 60,000 spectators packed into the Rades stadium to witness the opening ceremony of the African Nations Cup. . . . more . . .
Sorin socks it to Marseille as PSG grab Cup ticket (Jan 24, 2004)
Argentine forward Juan Pablo Sorin handed Paris St Germain their ticket into the last 16 of the French Cup in a bad-tempered extra-time 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Marseille. . . . more . . .
Ravenelli fails to lift Perugia (Jan 24, 2004)
A goal on his debut from former Italy international Fabrizio Ravanelli failed to lift struggling Serie A side Perugia whose bid for a first win this season was foiled following two late goals from Siena in the first of two Italian league games. . . . more . . .
Chelsea scrape past Seadogs (Jan 24, 2004)
Chelsea scraped into the fifth round of the FA Cup in ignominious fashion as non-league Scarborough came within a whisker of forcing them to a replay and were unlucky to go down 1-0. . . . more . . .
Gunners slice Boro up (Jan 24, 2004)
Even without Thierry Henry, Arsenal still had sufficient cutting edge to slice Middlesbrough apart as they booked their place in the FA Cup fifth round in style. . . . more . . .
City seek revenge 23 years later (Jan 24, 2004)
Manchester City go into Sunday's FA Cup clash with Tottenham bidding to turn around their season -- as well as seeking revenge for their defeat in one of the all-time classic Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Fashion victims Cameroon begin defence of African crown (Jan 24, 2004)
Cameroon has begun their campaign to win a third successive African Nations Cup title on Sunday but their opening match against Algeria is in danger of being overshadowed by an argument over their revolutionary new strip. . . . more . . .
Saha will be a success says Neville (Jan 24, 2004)
Manchester United defender Gary Neville has no doubts new signing Louis Saha will be successful because he has the mental strength to withstand the pressure of playing at the Old Trafford club. . . . more . . .
South African dream leans on Beckham factor (Jan 24, 2004)
South Africa hope England skipper David Beckham, or at least the image of him, can help propel them to success when the vote to decide the hosts of the 2010 World Cup is taken in May. . . . more . . .
Cheyrou double sends Liverpool through (Jan 24, 2004)
Bruno Cheyrou scored twice as Liverpool went into the fifth round of the FA Cup with a 2-1 win over Premiership rivals Newcastle here at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Pearson off the mark as Hoops turn the screw on Rangers (Jan 24, 2004)
Stephen Pearson's first goal for the club and Henrik Larsson's first of 2004 helped steer Celtic another step closer to sealing the Scottish Premier League (SPL) title with a 3-1 win at Aberdeen. . . . more . . .
Unfit Ronaldo is still the Real deal for Madrid (Jan 24, 2004)
Brazilian World Cup hero Ronaldo may not have been 100 per cent fit but he managed to score and help Real Madrid to a 2-1 victory over Villarreal. . . . more . . .
Silva's golden night rescues Tunisia (Jan 24, 2004)
Brazilian import Silva dos Santos became an instant Tunisian hero when he hit the winning goal in a 2-1 win over a battling Rwanda in the opening match of the African Nations Cup. . . . more . . .
Bayonne shock Bordeaux to pull off vintage Cup shock (Jan 24, 2004)
The amateurs of Bayonne knocked first division giants Bordeaux out of the French Cup and celebrated with a joyous lap of honour after a match played in a near swamp. . . . more . . .
Tomasson's not going anywhere, says AC Milan chief (Jan 24, 2004)
A top AC Milan official brushed aside speculation that Danish striker Jon Dahl Tomasson is set to leave the Serie A giants. . . . more . . .
Chukwu thrilled Nigeria are not favourites (Jan 24, 2004)
Coach Christian Chukwu said he is excited that Nigeria's Super Eagles are not one of the top favourites at the African Nations Cup as this will take the pressure off his team. . . . more . . .
Two police injured in clashes with PSG fans (Jan 24, 2004)
Two police officers were injured during clashes with Paris Saint Germain fans in the run-up to the high-risk French Cup match at Marseille later in the day, police said. . . . more . . .
Euro 2004 organisers warn fans of Internet ticket fraud (Jan 23, 2004)
Euro 2004 organisers warned fans who are planning to travel to Portugal for the tournament this summer not to buy their tickets for matches through unofficial Internet sites. . . . more . . .
Tiatto given four months to save City career (Jan 23, 2004)
Tough-tackling Australian midfielder Danny Tiatto has been given four months to prove he deserves a new deal with Manchester City. . . . more . . .
Stressed Lemerre braced for new trial (Jan 23, 2004)
Tunisia coach Roger Lemerre admits he is feeling the strain as he faces the potential of becoming a laughing stock for the second time in his career when his team meets Rwanda in the opening match of the African Nations Cup on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Injured Sakho forced out of Senegal debut (Jan 23, 2004)
Leeds United's on-loan midfielder Lamine Sakho's hopes of making his Senegal debut in the African Nations Cup clash against Burkina Faso on Sunday have been shattered by injury. . . . more . . .
Dons Aussie star hoping for Celtic return to first team (Jan 23, 2004)
Aberdeen's Australian striker David Zdrilic is hoping his midweek Scottish Cup heroics will be enough to fire him back into the starting line-up for Saturday's visit by champions elect Celtic. . . . more . . .
Lehmann faces ban after admitting misconduct (Jan 23, 2004)
Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann faces a possible one-match ban or a fine after pleading guilty to a improper conduct following the game against Southampton at St Mary's Stadium on December 29. . . . more . . .
We are Real's rivals now say defiant Valencia (Jan 23, 2004)
Valencia have swept aside the importance of their 3-0 Spanish Cup defeat to Real Madrid in midweek to affirm they are now the main challengers to the reigning Spanish league champions. . . . more . . .
Trezeguet set to sign new Juventus deal (Jan 23, 2004)
Italian champions Juventus say they are close to agreeing a new deal with David Trezeguet which will keep the France striker at the club until June 2008. . . . more . . .
Ancona turn to Baggio to lead survival fight (Jan 23, 2004)
Rock-bottom Ancona are pinning their slim hopes of survival on the leadership qualities of experienced midfielder Dino Baggio as they look to win for the first time this season away to title-chasing AC Milan on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Africa must wait for top player award (Jan 23, 2004)
African football chiefs have put off naming the continent's Player of the Year award for which Cameroon's Samuel Eto'o, Didier Drogba of the Ivory Coast and Jay-Jay Okocha of Nigeria have been shortlisted. . . . more . . .
Ferguson sees future of United in so-good Saha (Jan 23, 2004)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson sealed Louis Saha's arrival at the Premiership champions by handing him the coveted No. 9 shirt - then promised big things from the man he hopes will become a United great. . . . more . . .
Portugal to make bid for 2007 Confederations Cup (Jan 23, 2004)
Portugal intends to submit a bid to host the 2007 Confederations Cup, the president of the nation's football federation revealed. . . . more . . .
Wales weigh up Euro 2004 appeal after Russian fails dope test (Jan 23, 2004)
Wales are considering an appeal against Russia's participation in Euro 2004 after it was revealed a Russian player failed a drugs test during the qualifying play-offs. . . . more . . .
Lazio dismiss Stam transfer talk (Jan 23, 2004)
Lazio insisted their Dutch defender Jaap Stam would not be leaving the club during the January transfer window. . . . more . . .
Newcastle to make novel bid for Leeds striker Smith (Jan 23, 2004)
Newcastle United are set to make a 5 million pound (9 million dollar) bid for Alan Smith but allow the England striker to stay at crisis club leeds United to the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Maximum security at Marseille-PSG Cup game (Jan 23, 2004)
Up to 700 police will be in force for this weekend's French Cup match between Marseille and Paris Saint Germain, police revealed. . . . more . . .
Nigeria sweat on injured goalkeeper (Jan 23, 2004)
Nigeria goalkeeper Austin Ejide did not train with the rest of the squad as he is still suffering from a hamstring injury but with the country beginning their African Nations Cup campaign on Tuesday team officials hope he will soon be fit. . . . more . . .
Anigo factor could get temperatures soaring against PSG (Jan 23, 2004)
As far as derby matches go, Paris St Germain and Marseille are up there with the most hotly disputed on any domestic calendar. . . . more . . .
Australia confirm match with Venezuela (Jan 23, 2004)
Australia will play Venezuela in a football international in Caracas on February 18, the Australian Soccer Association (ASA) revealed. . . . more . . .
Djemba-Djemba living a dream at Old Trafford (Jan 23, 2004)
Cameroon international Eric Djemba-Djemba believes that his move to English champions Manchester United has been so successful that he has learnt in six months what it would have taken four times longer to achieve elsewhere.