Archive soccer news from around the world
Makaay hat-trick sparks Bayern title party (Apr 30, 2005)
Bayern Munich clinched their 19th German championship with Netherlands striker Roy Makaay scoring a hat-trick in a comfortable 4-0 win at Kaiserslautern. . . . more . . .
Normal order resumed as Bayern clinch Bundesliga title (Apr 30, 2005)
Bayern Munich wrapped up their 19th Bundesliga title but at one stage it looked like the German powerhouse would be pushed down to the wire by a rejuvenated Schalke 04. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko's double ends Milan's Fiorentina jinx (Apr 30, 2005)
Andriy Shevchenko scored twice in 10 second-half minutes as AC Milan came from behind to beat relegation-threatened Fiorentina 2-1 for their first victory in Florence for 10 years. . . . more . . .
Palace make point at toothless Magpies (Apr 30, 2005)
Crystal Palace kept their hopes alive of staying in the Premiership with a 0-0 draw against a weakened Newcastle side. . . . more . . .
Camara answers Saints' prayers against Norwich (Apr 30, 2005)
Southampton climbed off the bottom of the Premiership and out of the relegation places thanks to Henri Camara's 88th-minute winner in a see-saw 4-3 victory over fellow strugglers Norwich City at St Mary's. . . . more . . .
Two-goal Ronaldo keeps Real dream alive (Apr 30, 2005)
Brazilian superstar Ronaldo kept Real Madrid's Spanish title dream alive with two late goals to secure a 2-0 win at Real Sociedad. . . . more . . .
Strasbourg dump Caen to claim French League Cup (Apr 30, 2005)
Strasbourg compounded the miserable season of fellow league strugglers Caen with a 2-1 win at Stade de France which handed the Alsatian outfit their second French League Cup title. . . . more . . .
O'Neill warns Celtic over title complacency (Apr 30, 2005)
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has warned the club's fans the Scottish Premier League has still to be won. . . . more . . .
Caen look to avoid Alsatian mauling (Apr 30, 2005)
French league strugglers Caen will be looking to avoid a mauling by Alsatian side Strasbourg when the first division rivals meet in Saturday night's French League Cup final at the Stade de France. . . . more . . .
Owen pledges Real Madrid will fight to the finish (Apr 30, 2005)
England striker Michael Owen insists that Real Madrid will not surrender their pursuit of a 30th Spanish title even though they remain six points behind rivals Barcelona with just five games left. . . . more . . .
Gerrard strike fails to hide Liverpool angst (Apr 30, 2005)
A sensational volley by Steven Gerrard failed to mask another disappointing Premiership performance by Liverpool as the Champions League semi-finalists were held to a 1-1 draw by Middlesbrough at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Champagne on ice as Bayern prepare title party (Apr 30, 2005)
Bayern Munich fans will be packing the champagne bottles for Saturday's trip to Kaiserslautern, with the Bavarian giants assured of their 19th German championship if they claim all three points. . . . more . . .
Former European champions Nottingham Forest relegated (Apr 30, 2005)
Former European champions Nottingham Forest were relegated from the Championship to League One, the third tier of English football. . . . more . . .
Ferguson warns Ferdinand over contract decision (Apr 30, 2005)
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has been warned he must speed up his decision on a new contract offer if he wants to avoid further disappointing fans at the club. . . . more . . .
Chelsea play down Robben bust-up (Apr 30, 2005)
Chelsea's hoped-for celebrations at winning the English Premier League on Saturday have been dampened by a reported bust-up between Jose Mourinho and his Dutch winger Arjen Robben. . . . more . . .
Hibs shock Celtic to give Rangers hope (Apr 30, 2005)
Hibernian shocked Celtic with a 3-1 win at Parkhead to blast the Scottish Premier League title race wide open. . . . more . . .
Camara rescues Saints against Norwich (Apr 30, 2005)
Southampton climbed off the bottom of the Premiership table following a 4-3 rollercoaster win at home to relegation rivals Norwich at St Mary's Stadium. . . . more . . .
Japan rejects China as venue for WC qualifier against North Korea (Apr 30, 2005)
Japan's football chief said he would reject any move to stage North Korea's home World Cup qualifier in China, following crowd unrest at previous matches in Pyongyang. . . . more . . .
Fulham dent Everton's Champions League hopes (Apr 30, 2005)
Fulham preserved their Premiership status for another season as first half goals from Collins John and Brian McBride gave them a 2-0 victory over Champions League hopefuls Everton at Craven Cottage. . . . more . . .
Chelsea win English Premiership title (Apr 30, 2005)
Chelsea won the English Premiership title after a 2-0 victory away to Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium. . . . more . . .
Campbell kept waiting (Apr 30, 2005)
Arsenal defender Sol Campbell could be kept waiting to return to the starting eleven because of the impressive form of Philippe Senderos and Kolo Toure. . . . more . . .
Lampard double wraps up title for Chelsea (Apr 30, 2005)
Frank Lampard scored the goals that earned Chelsea a 2-0 victory at Bolton's Reebok Stadium, bringing with it their first top-flight championship in exactly 50 years. . . . more . . .
Del Piero vows to fight to the finish (Apr 30, 2005)
Juventus captain Alessandro Del Piero insists his team will fight to the bitter end to ensure the Scudetto ends up in their trophy cabinet rather than AC Milan's. . . . more . . .
Ferguson given extra-time over penalty claim (Apr 30, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson has been given an additional 24 hours to explain his comments that there was a "sinister" reason for the lack of penalties awarded to Manchester United this season. . . . more . . .
Sam's dirty dozen to spoil Jose's party (Apr 30, 2005)
Jose Mourinho can expect no favours from Sam Allardyce on Saturday when Chelsea try to clinch their first English league title for 50 years. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho out of Confederations Cup (Apr 30, 2005)
Brazil striker Ronaldinho will not play in the 2005 Confederations Cup as his club Barcelona want him to front their lucrative summer tour of Japan, according to a report in Spiegel magazine. . . . more . . .
Sunderland clinch Championship crown (Apr 29, 2005)
Sunderland came back from a goal down to beat West Ham 2-1 to clinch The Championship title and celebrate promotion to the Premiership in style. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand pledges loyalty to Old Trafford (Apr 29, 2005)
England defender Rio Ferdinand responded to Sir Alex Ferguson's demand for an immediate decision on his future at Manchester United by declaring his intention to stay at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
North Korea ordered to face Japan on neutral venue (Apr 29, 2005)
World football governing body FIFA punished North Korea for crowd unrest at their recent World Cup qualifiers and ordered the team to play its next home game against Japan on neutral territory and behind closed doors. . . . more . . .
Chelsea ready to take a rest (Apr 29, 2005)
Chelsea are considering resting players for Saturday's Premiership match at Bolton Wanderers with a tough Champions League semi-final at Liverpool coming just three days afterwards. . . . more . . .
Lampard ready to rest and rock for Chelsea (Apr 29, 2005)
England midfielder Frank Lampard could be in for a well-earned rest if Chelsea clinch the Premiership title at Bolton on Saturday with the Blues having one eye on preserving their Champions League dream. . . . more . . .
Prso attracts Villa interest (Apr 29, 2005)
Rangers striker Dado Prso could be the second big signing to leave the Scottish club this season, following claims by the Croat's agent that he is being chased by a number of clubs. . . . more . . .
Slow-coach Zidane unhappy with left-wing role (Apr 29, 2005)
Zinedine Zidane believes Real Madrid are not getting the best out of him since Brazilian coach Wanderley Luxemburgo stuck him on the left wing. . . . more . . .
Dyer injury blow for Newcastle (Apr 29, 2005)
Newcastle manager Graeme Souness has confirmed midfielder Kieron Dyer will not play again this season after damaging his hamstring. . . . more . . .
Benitez stands firm over Liverpool's Euro dream (Apr 29, 2005)
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez insisted that the Anfield giants must be allowed to defend the Champions League title next season should they capture the continent's most glittering prize. . . . more . . .
O'Neill gunning to keep Bellamy at Celtic (Apr 29, 2005)
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is determined to keep controversial Wales striker Craig Bellamy at Parkhead and make his move permanent. . . . more . . .
Premiership strugglers plot great escape from drop zone (Apr 29, 2005)
Southampton, West Bromwich, Norwich and Crystal Palace launch their latest bids to escape the Premiership trap-door this weekend with time rapidly running out. . . . more . . .
Henry has slim chance of making Cup final admits Wenger (Apr 29, 2005)
Arsene Wenger conceded Friday that Arsenal's France striker Thierry Henry has just a 30 percent chance of facing Manchester United in the FA Cup final. . . . more . . .
Ebay refuse to ban World Cup ticket sales (Apr 29, 2005)
Online auction site ebay have told organisers of the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany they will not prevent people from trading black market tickets over their internet site. . . . more . . .
Disgraced ref Hoyzer banned for life (Apr 29, 2005)
The German Football Federation (DFB) confirmed that referee Robert Hoyzer has been banned for life for match-fixing. . . . more . . .
No change to kick-off time for crunch Serie A clash (Apr 28, 2005)
The Italian Football League (Lega Calcio) have confirmed that the potential Serie A title decider between AC Milan and Juventus at the San Siro will kick-off at 1400 GMT on May 8, the same time as all of the other nine games. . . . more . . .
Alonso anguished at Liverpool ban (Apr 28, 2005)
Spanish playmaker Xabi Alonso has spoken of his anguish at being banned from Liverpool's Champions League semi-final second leg at Anfield on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Liverpool to soldier on without Spanish playmaker Alonso (Apr 28, 2005)
Rafael Benitez is confident Liverpool can beat Chelsea at Anfield in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final without the suspended Xabi Alonso. . . . more . . .
Beckham stunned by nanny claims (Apr 28, 2005)
England skipper David Beckham said he is "amazed" and finds it "incredible" that his family's former nanny sold a story making claims about his marriage to a Sunday tabloid newspaper. . . . more . . .
Barthez set to appeal spitting ban (Apr 28, 2005)
Marseille goalkeeper Fabien Barthez is weighing up whether to appeal his three month ban for spitting on a Moroccan referee in a friendly match in Casablanca in February. . . . more . . .
Mourinho out to silence Liverpool fans again (Apr 28, 2005)
Rafa Benitez is confident his Liverpool side has one foot in the Champions League final but Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is adamant he has different news for the Reds boss. . . . more . . .
Pinilla wonder strike gives Sporting edge (Apr 28, 2005)
A long distance strike by Chilean substitute Mauricio Pinilla gave Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon a 2-1 win over Dutch side AZ Alkmaar in the first leg of their UEFA Cup semi-final. . . . more . . .
Arsenal player cleared over Cafe Royal fight (Apr 28, 2005)
Arsenal striker Quincy Owusu-Abeyie has been cleared after police investigated a fight which broke out following the Professional Footballers' Association Player Awards on Monday. . . . more . . .
Gallas and Kezman set for Stamford Bridge exit (Apr 28, 2005)
William Gallas and Mateja Kezman have revealed they are set to leave Chelsea in the summer. . . . more . . .
Dunne and Onuoha pen new Man City deals (Apr 28, 2005)
Manchester City defenders Richard Dunne and Nedum Onuoha signed new contracts with the English Premiership club. . . . more . . .
Villarreal squander Champions League chance (Apr 28, 2005)
Villarreal squandered their chance to move up into the Champions League slots and remain in fifth place in the Spanish first division after losing 3-2 to Osasuna. . . . more . . .
Cannavaro at centre of TV drug claim (Apr 28, 2005)
Italian state broadcaster RAI aired a documentary apparently showing Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro being administered a drug that strengthens the heart on the eve of the 1999 UEFA Cup final. . . . more . . .
Under-strength Parma hold CSKA (Apr 28, 2005)
Parma and CSKA Moscow played out a goalless draw in the first leg of their UEFA Cup semi-final, first leg at the Ennio Tardini stadium. . . . more . . .
TV documentary to show alleged doping of Parma player (Apr 28, 2005)
Italian state broadcaster RAI are to air a documentary allegedly showing a Parma player being doped in a Moscow hotel before the 1999 UEFA Cup final against Marseilles. . . . more . . .
Home front distracts Parma from Moscow battle (Apr 28, 2005)
Parma, with no money and fighting to stay in the Italian first division, will field an under-strength side when they take on CSKA Moscow in their UEFA Cup semi-final. . . . more . . .
Carroll keen to stay at United (Apr 28, 2005)
Manchester United goalkeeper Roy Carroll is keen to sign a new contract at Old Trafford providing Sir Alex Ferguson does not bring in even more competition during the summer, his agent revealed. . . . more . . .
Radebe set for a chief's farewell (Apr 28, 2005)
Former South Africa captain Lucas Radebe, in his 11th and final season in England, is set to be given a farewell fit for a chief in his testimonial at Leeds next Monday. . . . more . . .
Deisler future our decision not Germany's rage Bayern (Apr 28, 2005)
Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich have reacted angrily to comments from the German national team set-up advising midfielder Sebastian Deisler to leave Munich to kickstart his ailing career. . . . more . . .
Ferguson looks to future (Apr 28, 2005)
Alex Ferguson believes his young team can give Chelsea and Arsenal a closer run next year but admits he is disappointed with Manchester United's season despite having an FA Cup final date with Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Foreign managers are shaking up English football: Mourinho (Apr 28, 2005)
English football has been shaken up and improved since the arrival of foreign managers, Chelsea's Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho said in an interview. . . . more . . .
Man United board won't recommend Glazer deal (Apr 28, 2005)
The board of Manchester United revealed they "cannot provide a recommendation" for shareholders to accept US businessman Malcolm Glazer's takeover proposals. . . . more . . .
Italian giants Juventus to tour Japan (Apr 28, 2005)
Juventus will play two friendly matches in Japan after the Serie A season has ended, the Turin club announced. . . . more . . .
Deisler must leave Bayern says Bierhoff (Apr 27, 2005)
Germany assistant coach Oliver Bierhoff has advised troubled midfielder Sebastian Deisler to leave Bayern Munich to enhance his chances of playing a pivotal role for hosts Germany in the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Beckham ready to end career in Real (Apr 27, 2005)
England captain David Beckham insisted that he had never been happier and was ready to see out his career in the Spanish capital. . . . more . . .
Hiddink remains defiant after Milan heartbreaker (Apr 27, 2005)
PSV Eindhoven coach Guus Hiddink vowed his team would not go out of the Champions League without a fight after suffering a heartbreaking 2-0 defeat to AC Milan in the first leg of their semi-final. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand in snapper bust-up (Apr 27, 2005)
Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand has been accused of getting some friends to beat up a photographer who was hassling him outside a London night club. . . . more . . .
Bribes referee escapes fine (Apr 27, 2005)
Disgraced referee Robert Hoyzer has escaped a 50,000 euro fine because the German Football Federation (DFB) believes a life ban for match-fixing is punishment enough. . . . more . . .
Duff injury blow opens way for Robben (Apr 27, 2005)
Ireland winger Damien Duff was expected to miss the Champions League semi-final against Liverpool with a hamstring injury which could open the way for Netherlands star Arjen Robben to be thrown straight back into the Chelsea side. . . . more . . .
Bellamy's far from copybook texts costs him Newcastle future (Apr 27, 2005)
Fiery Wales striker Craig Bellamy's hopes of a return to ailing English Premiership side Newcastle were extinguished after it was revealed he had sent insulting text messages to club captain and icon Alan Shearer. . . . more . . .
Liverpool hold Chelsea to Champions League stalemate (Apr 27, 2005)
Liverpool held hosts Chelsea to a goalless draw in the all-English Champions League semi-final first leg at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Boro frustrate Magpies to stay in chase for Europe (Apr 27, 2005)
Newcastle United ended their five-match pointless streak when they were held to a 0-0 home draw in their home derby with Steve McClaren's Middlesbrough. . . . more . . .
Terry bracing for Liverpool storm (Apr 27, 2005)
Chelsea captain John Terry is steeling himself for a fierce Champions League semi-final against a revenge-hungry Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Milan take giant step towards final (Apr 26, 2005)
AC Milan rode their luck to beat PSV Eindhoven 2-0 in a pulsating first leg of their Champions League semi-final at the San Siro. . . . more . . .
My ugly ducklings can ruffle Milan's feathers, says PSV's Hiddink (Apr 26, 2005)
PSV Eindhoven coach Guus Hiddink believes his ugly ducklings can ruffle AC Milan's feathers in the Champions League semi-final, first leg at the San Siro. . . . more . . .
Australia star Kewell set for Liverpool Cup clash (Apr 26, 2005)
Australian star Harry Kewell is ready to play through the pain barrier to help Liverpool in Wednesday's Champions League semi-final with Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Arsenal player released after Cafe Royal fight (Apr 26, 2005)
Arsenal striker Quincy Owusu-Abeyie has been released on bail after a fight broke out following the Professional Footballers' Association Player Awards. . . . more . . .
Ballack will use World Cup to silence doubters says Klinsmann (Apr 26, 2005)
Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann claims Michael Ballack will prove critics wrong at the 2006 World Cup and show he can be placed on a pedestal with the other great midfielders in world football. . . . more . . .
Chelsea plan for long haul (Apr 26, 2005)
Chelsea don't plan to wait another 50 years for a league title if they wrap up the Premier League against Bolton on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Liverpool success would leave England with European dilemma (Apr 26, 2005)
English football's appeal to UEFA to avoid having to choose between Everton and Liverpool to play in Europe next season if Liverpool win the Champions League has been turned down. . . . more . . .
Austrian coach signs on to guide crisis-ridden Vietnam football (Apr 26, 2005)
Austrian Alfred Riedl signed a three-year contract to coach the Vietnamese football team who have been in a deep crisis since their first round exit from last year's Tiger Cup, a Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) spokesman told AFP. . . . more . . .
FA Cup doubt over Henry (Apr 26, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Thierry Henry is doubtful for the FA Cup final against Manchester United on May 21. . . . more . . .
Clock ticking away for Rangers boss (Apr 26, 2005)
Rangers manager Alex McLeish admits he is living on borrowed time with failure to end Celtic's domination of the Scottish Premier League next season bound to see him go. . . . more . . .
Celtic hit by Bellamy injury blow (Apr 26, 2005)
Scottish Premier League title favourites Celtic suffered a blow when it was revealed their in-form Welsh international striker Craig Bellamy would miss up to three weeks with a hamstring injury. . . . more . . .
Chilled-out Chelsea will beat Reds says Mourinho (Apr 26, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho insists a calm, collected approach will assure the Londoners victory over Liverpool in the Champions League semi-final first leg. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid to visit China in July (Apr 26, 2005)
Spanish giants Real Madrid will play Chinese Super League club Beijing Hyundai during a five-day visit to China in July. . . . more . . .
Resign? Me? No way insists Redknapp (Apr 26, 2005)
Harry Redknapp says resignation is the last thing on his mind as he attempts a last-ditch escape act to keep struggling Southampton afloat in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
West Brom held back by Rovers Aussie ace (Apr 26, 2005)
English Premiership relegation candidates West Brom failed to get out of the bottom three after Blackburn Rovers came from behind to draw 1-1. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Terry Player of Year (Apr 25, 2005)
Chelsea captain John Terry has been named Player of the Year by the Professional Footballers' Association. . . . more . . .
Arsenal's slim title hopes given Reyes of light (Apr 25, 2005)
Chelsea will have to wait at least till Saturday's match with Bolton to claim their first title in 50 years after a Jose-Antonio Reyes goal gave Arsenal a 1-0 victory over North London rivals Spurs. . . . more . . .
Bundesliga paupers becoming also-rans in Europe (Apr 25, 2005)
Back in the 1991/92 season German clubs were ranked the highest in Europe by football's governing body UEFA and the Bundesliga had the luxury of four spots in the money-spinning Champions League. . . . more . . .
Bruce signs "bargain" buy Pennant (Apr 25, 2005)
Birmingham completed the signing of Jermaine Pennant from Arsenal for three million pounds (5.7 million dollars), a bargain buy according to manager Steve Bruce. . . . more . . .
Barros injury blow for Liverpool (Apr 25, 2005)
Liverpool's injury jinx looks like striking again for Wednesday's UEFA Champions League semi-final with Chelsea with Milan Baros facing a race against time to be fit. . . . more . . .
Arsenal player in Cafe Royal fight (Apr 25, 2005)
Arsenal striker Quincy Owusu-Abeyie was arrested after a fight broke out following the Professional Footballers' Association Player Awards. . . . more . . .
Chelsea Pensioners set for long-run (Apr 25, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho will trim his current squad before rebuilding in the summer to ensure Chelsea's 2005 campaigners are not consigned as a flash-in-the-pan. . . . more . . .
Redknapp insists sorry Saints can survive despite derby thrashing (Apr 25, 2005)
Southampton manager Harry Redknapp believes his side can still escape relegation despite a crushing 4-1 defeat against his former club Portsmouth at Fratton Park. . . . more . . .
O'Neill says SPL title now close (Apr 25, 2005)
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill admits the Scottish Premier League title is within touching distance after his team's 2-1 win over Rangers. . . . more . . .
Baros injury blow for Liverpool (Apr 25, 2005)
Liverpool's injury jinx looks like striking again for Wednesday's UEFA Champions League semi-final with Chelsea with Milan Baros facing a race against time to be fit. . . . more . . .
Freiburg down as relegation dogfight begins (Apr 25, 2005)
SC Freiburg became the first team to suffer relegation from the Bundesliga this season with a 3-1 defeat at Arminia Bielefeld sealing their fate. . . . more . . .
Rooney plans to keep learning (Apr 25, 2005)
Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney says he plans to keep learning after winning the Young Player of the Year award from the Professional Footballers' Association. . . . more . . .
Lyon swamp Auxerre to roar towards French title (Apr 24, 2005)
Lyon continued their relentless march towards a fourth straight French league title with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Auxerre under the driving Burgundy rain. . . . more . . .
Former European Champions live to fight another day (Apr 24, 2005)
Nottingham Forest manager Gary Megson still believes in miracles after his side fended off relegation for a week at least with a 1-0 win over Burnley. . . . more . . .
LuaLua double wrecks Redknapp return as Saints stay rock-bottom (Apr 24, 2005)
Lomana LuaLua's double inside the first 26 minutes ruined Harry Redknapp's return to Fratton Park as Portsmouth crushed bitter rivals Southampton 4-1. . . . more . . .
Barcelona's French connection makes Malaga miserable (Apr 24, 2005)
League leaders Barcelona gave their emphatic response to the pressure put upon them by second-place Real Madrid with a 4-0 rout at Malaga. . . . more . . .
Sampdoria edge Roma to reclaim fourth place (Apr 24, 2005)
Serie A dark horses Sampdoria maintained their push for a Champions League place with a 2-1 home victory over Roma. . . . more . . .
Arsenal bid to keep Chelsea waiting for title (Apr 24, 2005)
Arsenal take on bitter north London rivals Tottenham on Monday looking to at least keep the Premiership title race alive for one more week and avoid handing it to Chelsea by failing to win. . . . more . . .
Nedved's late strike keep Juve level with Milan (Apr 24, 2005)
Juventus rejoined AC Milan at the top of Italy's Serie A after defeating Lazio 1-0 at the Olympic stadium. . . . more . . .
2006 World Cup tickets surface on black market (Apr 24, 2005)
The organisers of the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany are furious after tickets found their way on to the black market just 48 hours after the first sales period ended. . . . more . . .
Sampdoria edge Roma to reclaim fourth place (Apr 24, 2005)
Serie A dark horses Sampdoria maintained their push for a Champions League place with a 2-1 home victory over Roma. . . . more . . .
Nemeth reignites Middlesbrough push for Europe (Apr 24, 2005)
A double from Slovakia striker Szilard Nemeth reignited Middlesbrough's push for Europe with a 4-0 win against relegation-threatened West Bromwich Albion. . . . more . . .
Celtic take huge step to title with Ibrox win (Apr 24, 2005)
Celtic took a huge step towards the Scottish Premier League title with a 2-1 away win over Rangers to move five points clear. . . . more . . .
Bremen see Champions League dream go up in smoke (Apr 24, 2005)
Last season's double winners Werder Bremen saw their hopes of Champions League football evaporate following a 2-1 defeat at Bayer Leverkusen. . . . more . . .
PSV open bid for triple by claiming Dutch league title (Apr 24, 2005)
PSV Eindhoven opened their bid for the triple this season by securing their 18th Dutch league title after a 3-0 win at home against Vitesse Arnhem. . . . more . . .
Rooney wonder-goal sparks United fightback (Apr 24, 2005)
Wayne Rooney scored a second-half wonder goal to spark a Manchester United fight-back as Sir Alex Ferguson's team overturned Darren Ambrose's first-half opener to seal a 2-1 victory against Newcastle at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Dire draw sums up season for Blackburn and Man City (Apr 24, 2005)
With two sides stuck in mid-table mediocrity, it was little surprise that Blackburn and Manchester City grafted out a dire 0-0 draw at Ewood Park. . . . more . . .
Rooney wonder-goal sparks United fightback (Apr 24, 2005)
Wayne Rooney scored a second-half wonder goal to spark a Manchester United fight-back as Sir Alex Ferguson's team overturned Darren Ambrose's first-half opener to seal a 2-1 victory against Newcastle at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Symons backs Palace to beat the drop (Apr 24, 2005)
Crystal Palace assistant manager Kit Symons backed his relegation-threatened side to beat the drop after they secured a precious 1-0 victory over Champions League-chasing Liverpool at Selhurst Park. . . . more . . .
Old Firm prepare for possible Scottish League decider (Apr 24, 2005)
Celtic and Rangers meet at Ibrox in a game which could decide the destination of the Scottish Premier League title. . . . more . . .
Real steal victory from under Villarreal's noses (Apr 23, 2005)
Real Madrid left it late but came back from a goal down to notch up their fifth consecutive victory with a 2-1 win over Champions League contenders Villarreal. . . . more . . .
French press indignant at Barthez's 'deplorable' spitting ban (Apr 23, 2005)
French newspapers reacted with indignation at the "deplorable" three-month ban handed to Marseille goalkeeper Fabien Barthez for spitting on a Moroccan referee in a friendly match in Casablanca in February. . . . more . . .
Real steal victory from under Villarreal's noses (Apr 23, 2005)
Real Madrid left it late but came back from a goal down to notch up their fifth consecutive victory with a 2-1 win over Champions League contenders Villarreal. . . . more . . .
Barthez bows out after Nantes draw (Apr 23, 2005)
Fabian Barthez' last appearance in goal for Marseille before heading into the Velodrome stadium wings to serve his spitting ban resulted in a stormy 2-2 draw away to Nantes. . . . more . . .
Bayern three points away from Bundesliga crown (Apr 23, 2005)
Bayern Munich need just three points to clinch a 19th German championship after a 3-1 triumph over ten-man VfL Bochum helped Felix Magath's side power nine points clear at the summit. . . . more . . .
Magic Johnson dents Liverpool's European hopes (Apr 23, 2005)
Andrew Johnson's 20th league goal of the season gave Crystal Palace a 1-0 win over Liverpool at Selhurst Park to move them out of the relegation zone and deal a potentially fatal blow to the Merseysiders' Champions League qualification hopes. . . . more . . .
Rijkaard rises to Real bait (Apr 23, 2005)
Six games to go and a six-point lead at the top of the Spanish first division should be enough for Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard to sleep easily ahead of the Catalan club's visit to Malaga on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Souness vows to shed bad-boy image (Apr 23, 2005)
Newcastle boss Graeme Souness has admitted his club will only be successful if it sheds its bad boy image. . . . more . . .
Desperate Bochum look to gatecrash Bayern title party (Apr 23, 2005)
Bayern Munich will hope to clinch three of the nine points they need to clinch a 19th German championship against struggling VfL Bochum at the Olympic Stadium. . . . more . . .
Nerves of steel required as title race enters final straight (Apr 23, 2005)
The race for the Italian title couldn't be any tighter with Juventus and AC Milan tied for first place on 70 points with six games of the season left. . . . more . . .
Chelsea on the brink of first title in 50 years (Apr 23, 2005)
Champions-elect Chelsea moved to within one result of a first title in 50 years thanks to goals from Joe Cole, Frank Lampard and Eidur Gudjohnsen in a 3-1 win over Fulham at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Moyes hails saviour Ferguson (Apr 23, 2005)
Everton manager David Moyes paid tribute to striker Duncan Ferguson after the Scotsman proved to be his team's hero for the second time this week in their 1-1 draw with Birmingham City at Goodison Park. . . . more . . .
Scottish sides scrap to beat the drop (Apr 23, 2005)
At the bottom end of the Scottish Premier League table there appears to be three teams fighting to avoid relegation with Livingston and Dunfermline rooted to the bottom on 27 points with Dundee United only a point better off. . . . more . . .
Stalemate does little for Villa and Bolton's European hopes (Apr 23, 2005)
Aston Villa missed a glut of chances as Bolton held on for a 1-1 draw at Villa Park, a result that did little to help either side's European ambitions. . . . more . . .
Last gasp Ferguson goal saves point for Everton (Apr 23, 2005)
Duncan Ferguson scored his second goal in a week to salvage a point for Everton at Goodison Park as the Toffees drew 1-1 with Birmingham City. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Cech keeps his cool as title beckons (Apr 23, 2005)
As befits the last line of a defence that has conceded a mere 12 league goals so far this season, Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech was calmness itself ahead of the leaders' west London derby against Fulham at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Glory beckons for Egypt, Nigeria and Tunisia in Champions League (Apr 23, 2005)
Clubs from Egypt, Nigeria and Tunisia are set to dominate the final qualifying matches this weekend for the African Champions League. . . . more . . .
Mourinho wants title race to go on despite victory (Apr 23, 2005)
Jose Mourinho has amazingly insisted he would rather not clinch the club's first title in 50 years on Monday, despite his side's 3-1 win over Fulham moving them to within one result of the Premiership crown. . . . more . . .
Benitez critical of strong arm Palace approach (Apr 23, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez implicitly criticized the physical approach of Crystal Palace after Andrew Johnson's first half header earned the south Londoners a 1-0 win at Selhurst Park. . . . more . . .
Troussier treads Marseille merry go-round (Apr 23, 2005)
Former Japan coach Philippe Troussier, who took over at Marseille from Jose Anigo only a few months ago, appears to have become the latest coach ready to jump ship from the southern coast club which has a reputation for floating from one crisis to another. . . . more . . .
AC Milan thump Parma to go clear in Italy (Apr 23, 2005)
Title-holders AC Milan thrashed relegation-threatened Parma 3-0 at the San Siro to open up a three-point lead at the top of Italy's Serie A. . . . more . . .
Nemeth reignites Middlesbrough push for Europe (Apr 23, 2005)
A double from Slovakian striker Szilard Nemeth reignited Middlesbrough's push for Europe with a 4-0 win against relegation-threatened West Bromwich Albion. . . . more . . .
Barthez banned for spitting (Apr 22, 2005)
France goalkeeper Fabien Barthez has been given a three-month ban for spitting on a Moroccan referee when Olympique Marseille played a friendly match in Casablanca in February. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Cech keeps his cool as title beckons (Apr 22, 2005)
As befits the last line of a defence that has conceded a mere 12 league goals so far this season, Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech was calmness itself ahead of the leaders' west London derby against Fulham at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Roman riches signal summer spending spree (Apr 22, 2005)
Chelsea's English Premiership rivals have been given some bad news concerning the London's club's Russian owner Roman Abramovich. . . . more . . .
Three-star PSG move into seventh (Apr 22, 2005)
Paris Saint Germain jumped three places into seventh with a 3-1 win over Nice at Parc des Princes. . . . more . . .
Barthez escapes with three-month ban for spitting (Apr 22, 2005)
France goalkeeper Fabien Barthez has been given a three-month ban for spitting on a Moroccan referee when Olympique Marseille played a friendly match in Casablanca in February. . . . more . . .
United will recover vows Giggs (Apr 22, 2005)
Ryan Giggs has insisted Chelsea's headlong rush to the Premier League title has not dented the self-belief of Manchester United's star-studded squad. . . . more . . .
Barthez escapes with spitting ban (Apr 22, 2005)
France goalkeeper Fabien Barthez was given a three-month ban for spitting on a Moroccan referee when Olympique Marseille played a friendly match in Casablanca in February. . . . more . . .
Ferguson pitch for Keane as United boss (Apr 22, 2005)
Alex Ferguson wants Roy Keane to take over when he steps down as Manchester United manager. . . . more . . .
FIFA to decide sanction against North Korea on April 29 (Apr 22, 2005)
The world football governing body FIFA will hold a meeting on April 29 to determine a sanction against North Korea for crowd unrest at a World Cup qualifier in Pyongyang last month, a report said. . . . more . . .
D-day approaching for Kewell to play in Confederations Cup (Apr 22, 2005)
Injury-ravaged footballer Harry Kewell would know by Monday if he was available to play for Australia in June's Confederations Cup in Germany, his international team-mate Lucas Neill said. . . . more . . .
As title approaches, Mourinho ready to step into the shadows (Apr 22, 2005)
Jose Mourinho has never been one step away from the spotlight in his first season at Chelsea but with their first Premiership title in half a century all but wrapped up he said he wanted to step back and let his players' soak up the glory. . . . more . . .
FA hands brawling Bowyer further three-match ban, fine (Apr 22, 2005)
The Football Association has slapped a further three-match ban and 30,000-pound (57,000 dollar) fine on Newcastle midfielder Lee Bowyer for his role in the on-pitch punch-up with team-mate Kieron Dyer. . . . more . . .
Arsenal striker Henry to miss next two games (Apr 22, 2005)
Arsenal's France international striker Thierry Henry will miss the club's next two games and faces a race against time to recover full fitness in time for the FA Cup final, manager Arsene Wenger said. . . . more . . .
Pompey's O'Neil reveals Redknapp respect (Apr 22, 2005)
Portsmouth midfielder Gary O'Neil played down talk of a feud with Harry Redknapp ahead of Sunday's potentially fraught south coast derby at Fratton Park. . . . more . . .
Rio hopeful of new United deal in 'days' (Apr 21, 2005)
Rio Ferdinand said he was hopeful of signing a new contract with Manchester United "in days rather than weeks" as he tried to quell the mounting speculation surrounding his Old Trafford future. . . . more . . .
Footballers most at risk from injury, says study (Apr 21, 2005)
Football players are far likelier to suffer injuries than other athletes, according to research published in a British journal, Archives of Disease in Childhood. . . . more . . .
Juve's Capello still upbeat after title setback (Apr 21, 2005)
Juventus coach Fabio Capello refused to lay the blame for their 1-0 home defeat to Inter Milan at the feet of his under-performing players. . . . more . . .
Todd cleared of violent conduct (Apr 21, 2005)
Blackburn captain Andy Todd was cleared of violent conduct against Arsenal striker Robin van Persie during last Saturday's FA Cup semi-final. . . . more . . .
Man Utd board to spurn latest Glazer offer: report (Apr 21, 2005)
Manchester United's board of directors looks set to rebuff US tycoon Malcolm Glazer's latest takeover offer for the club, a report said. . . . more . . .
UEFA president Johansson gets one more year (Apr 21, 2005)
Lennart Johannson will step down as UEFA president in 2007, one year later than expected.