Archive soccer news from around the world
Irureta ends seven 'magnificent' years at Coruna by mututal consent (May 31, 2005)
Javier Irureta has left his post as coach of Deportivo La Coruna by mutual consent, the Spanish club's president Augusto Cesar Lendoiro announced. . . . more . . .
Owen's hat trick lifts England over Colombia (May 31, 2005)
Michael Owen scored three goals to spark England past Colombia 3-2 in a football friendly here, giving the English their hat-trick since 2001 and a sweep of their two-game US tour. . . . more . . .
Mourinho puts family first (May 31, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho would put his wife and children first if forced to choose between family and football. . . . more . . .
West Ham boss given Premiership cash (May 31, 2005)
West Ham manager Alan Pardew will be given 15 million pounds for new players to keep them in the Premiership next season. . . . more . . .
Bolton leading chase for McCarthy (May 31, 2005)
English Premiership side Bolton, who secured a place in next season's UEFA Cup, are said to be leading the race to sign Porto's South African striker Benni McCarthy. . . . more . . .
Debut delight for Bayern at Allianz Arena (May 31, 2005)
German champions Bayern Munich enjoyed a successful debut at their new 340 million euro Allianz Arena with a 4-2 friendly win over a weakened Germany team. . . . more . . .
Owen's hat trick inspires England to victory over Colombia (May 31, 2005)
Michael Owen scored three times to give England a narrow 3-2 victory over Colombia in a football friendly here, giving the English their first hat-trick in four years. . . . more . . .
Boos still ring out for Domenech despite first home win (May 31, 2005)
Goals by Djibril Cisse and Florent Malouda gave France their first home win under Raymond Domenech with a 2-1 victory over Hungary but the coach could not escape being roundly booed because of his continuing insistence on not selecting former Metz player Robert Pires. . . . more . . .
Trapattoni steps down from Benfica (May 31, 2005)
Benfica coach Giovanni Trapattoni has stepped down after leading the Lisbon-based club to its first league title in 11 years, saying he wanted to be closer to his family in Italy. . . . more . . .
Totti extends Roma contract (May 31, 2005)
Roma captain Francesco Totti extended his contract with the Serie A club. . . . more . . .
Germany lose Hamann for Confed Cup (May 31, 2005)
Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has pulled out of Germany's squad for next month's Confederations Cup because of a stress fracture in his right foot. . . . more . . .
Don't rush me pleads Rio over contract talks (May 31, 2005)
England international central defender Rio Ferdinand asked for more time over his ongoing contract talks with Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Beckham, Owen plan long Madrid stays as English eye Colombia (May 31, 2005)
England stars David Beckham and Michael Owen are planning for long stays with Real Madrid, although Beckham has said on the eve of his US debut that he might one day play for an American side. . . . more . . .
Portugal's Figo faces Real uncertainty (May 31, 2005)
Luis Figo, happy to be back with Portugal's national squad after a nine-month break from international football, admits he is unsure of his future at Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Strachan relishing Celtic challenge (May 31, 2005)
Gordon Strachan has insisted he had no qualms about taking over from Martin O'Neill as Celtic manager. . . . more . . .
Kewell out of Australia's squad for Confederations Cup (May 31, 2005)
Harry Kewell has been officially ruled out playing for Australia in next month's Confederations Cup football tournament in Germany, Football Federation Australia (FFA) said. . . . more . . .
Glazer ready to sell Ferdinand (May 31, 2005)
England defender Rio Ferdinand could become the first big name to leave Malcolm Glazer's Manchester United if he refuses a final 100,000 pounds-a-week contract offer. . . . more . . .
Juve keeper Buffon rules out Man United move (May 31, 2005)
Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has ruled out a possible move to Manchester United who were reported to be ready to make a big-money offer. . . . more . . .
Champs Barcelona chase Forlan (May 31, 2005)
Spanish champions Barcelona have targetted Diego Forlan after the 26-year-old Uruguay striker finished the season as topscorer with 25 league goals to put Villarreal into the Champions League next season. . . . more . . .
Henry and Forlan top European scorers (May 30, 2005)
Uruguay international Diego Forlan's two goals for Villarreal against Levante secured his Spanish club a UEFA Champions League qualifying place and helped the former Manchester United striker share the Golden Shoe award with Arsenal's Thierry Henry. . . . more . . .
Zamora strike sends Hammers back to Premiership (May 30, 2005)
West Ham United claimed the third and final promotion place to the English Premiership this season after they beat Preston North End 1-0 in the Championship play-off final at the Millennium Stadium. . . . more . . .
No Liverpool bid for Hargreaves claim Bayern (May 30, 2005)
Bayern Munich claim Champions League winners Liverpool have not made a move for their England international Owen Hargreaves and are frustrated that the midfielder continues to angle for a move to the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Ballack not for sale say Bayern (May 30, 2005)
Bayern Munich vice-president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge insists German international playmaker Michael Ballack will not be sold to Spanish giants Real Madrid or any other club. . . . more . . .
Valencia name inexperienced Flores as coach; Edu moves from Arsenal (May 30, 2005)
Valencia made two important appointments - with Quique Flores named as coach and Brazilian midfielder Edu moving from Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Traattoni keeps Benfica guessing (May 30, 2005)
Benfica's Italian coach Giovanni Trapattoni will reveal on Tuesday whether he stays on with the Lisbon club for the second year of his contract. . . . more . . .
Fit-again Oliech ready for Kenya-Guinea World Cup duel (May 30, 2005)
Kenya's Qatar-based striker Dennis Oliech has been declared match-fit to play in this weekend's World Cup qualifier away in Guinea, team officials said. . . . more . . .
Brazilian Marcelinho voted Germany's Player of Year (May 30, 2005)
Hertha Berlin's Brazilian midfielder Marcelinho was voted German Player of the Year for the 2004/2005 season following a survey in Kicker magazine. . . . more . . .
Break-up forces Ronaldo out of World Cup qualifiers (May 30, 2005)
Brazilian superstar Ronaldo is to miss the upcoming two 2006 World Cup qualifiers with arch-rivals Argentina and Paraguay and June's Confederations Cup it was revealed. . . . more . . .
Liverpool decision this week says Hamann (May 30, 2005)
Liverpool's Champions League hero Dietmar Hamann admits a decision on his Anfield future could take place this week and he is leaning towards extending his contract with the European champions. . . . more . . .
FA Cup hero Lehmann confident over Arsenal future (May 30, 2005)
Germany international goalkeeper Jens Lehmann claims he will be at FA Cup winners Arsenal next season despite suggestions that manager Arsene Wenger is already looking for a high-profile replacement. . . . more . . .
Beckham, Owen plan long Madrid stays as English eye Colombia (May 30, 2005)
England stars David Beckham and Michael Owen are planning for long stays with Real Madrid, although Beckham said on the eve of his US debut that he might one day play for an American side. . . . more . . .
Udinese lose Czech star to AC Milan (May 30, 2005)
Udinese suffered a blow just a day after celebrating qualifying for the Champions League with the news that Czech Republic international Marek Jankulovski had been sold to Serie A rivals AC Milan. . . . more . . .
Warm-up win raises Iran spirits for North Korea clash (May 30, 2005)
Iran are looking confidently towards their World Cup qualifier with North Korea on Friday after a comfortable 2-1 win against Azerbaijan in a friendly. . . . more . . .
Simons injury adds to Belgium's woes (May 30, 2005)
Belgium's hopes of clawing their way back into contention for the 2006 World Cup finals suffered a blow as a rib injury ruled out defensive midfielder Timmy Simons from Saturday's Group 7 qualifier with group leaders Serbia and Montenegro. . . . more . . .
Chisholm setting new standards at United (May 29, 2005)
Dundee United manager Gordon Chisholm wants his players to set new standards for themselves following their brave Scottish Cup final defeat against Celtic. . . . more . . .
Villareal, Betis secure Champions League, Levante relegated (May 29, 2005)
Villareal and Real Betis secured their entry to next season's Champions League after respective must-win games on the final day of action in the Spanish league. . . . more . . .
Houllier named new Lyon coach (May 29, 2005)
Former Liverpool coach Gerard Houllier has been named the new coach of reigning French champions Lyon, the club announced here. . . . more . . .
UEFA president Johansson backs Liverpool: report (May 29, 2005)
UEFA president Lennart Johansson has backed Liverpool's bid to defend their Champions League title and a decision could be made before next month's meeting, the Sunday Times reported. . . . more . . .
Brussels pays homage 20 years after football disaster (May 29, 2005)
A memorial statue was inaugurated in Brussels on Sunday in honour of 39 football fans who died in the Heysel stadium disaster two decades ago, one of the defining moments for the world game. . . . more . . .
Keane stokes up Celtic interest (May 29, 2005)
Tottenham striker Robbie Keane sent out a come-and-get-me message to new Celtic manager Gordon Strachan after scoring the winner for the Republic of Ireland in Jackie McNamara's testimonial. . . . more . . .
Financial perils worse than Pardew thought (May 29, 2005)
Manager Alan Pardew has revealed that West Ham were harder hit financially by relegation than he first believed when he joined the club. . . . more . . .
McNamara pays testament to O'Neill (May 29, 2005)
Celtic captain Jackie McNamara will take to the field for his testimonial on Sunday reflecting on a glorious swansong under manager Martin O'Neill. . . . more . . .
Beckham, Owen set to rescue hurting England squad (May 29, 2005)
David Beckham and Michael Owen will come to the rescue for a hurting young England squad that might be without new hero Kieran Richardson and veteran defender Sol Campbell for Tuesday's match with Colombia. . . . more . . .
Udinese strike it rich, Brescia are relegated (May 29, 2005)
Udinese clinched the final Champions League place up for grabs, while Brescia were relegated, the final day of the Serie A season. . . . more . . .
Magath magic as Bayern clinch double (May 28, 2005)
Felix Magath crowned a fantastic debut season at Bayern Munich with his side defeating Schalke 04 2-1 in the cup final to clinch the double. . . . more . . .
Platini hits back at criticism in Belgian press over Heysel (May 28, 2005)
French football legend Michel Platini reacted firmly to Belgian press which criticised his behaviour during and after the Heysel tragedy. . . . more . . .
Wallwork signs contract extension (May 28, 2005)
West Brom midfielder Ronnie Wallwork has signed a new contract which will keep him at The Hawthorns for another two years. . . . more . . .
Liverpool's Baros claims Valencia want to sign him (May 28, 2005)
Liverpool's Czech Republic striker Milan Baros has confirmed he is a target for Spanish first division club Valencia. . . . more . . .
Sochaux ace Oruma doubtful for Rwanda clash (May 28, 2005)
Sochaux midfielder Wilson Oruma has hinted he is likely to stay away from next weekend's World Cup qualifier against Rwanda in Kigali as he tries to sort out his club future. . . . more . . .
Owen stars as Real overhaul Zaragoza (May 28, 2005)
Michael Owen claimed what could turn out to be his last goal for Real Madrid in a 3-1 league win over Real Zaragoza. . . . more . . .
Lille in Champions League heaven as Canaries beat drop (May 28, 2005)
There were tears all round as the French league season drew to a close, although it was difficult to measure who from the 20-team top flight was relieved most. . . . more . . .
Reid credits international recall to boss Hughes (May 28, 2005)
Blackburn midfielder Steven Reid has paid tribute to club boss Mark Hughes after earning a recall to the Republic of Ireland squad. . . . more . . .
England international Dyer in contract talks with Newcastle (May 28, 2005)
England international Kieron Dyer has begun discussions with Newcastle aimed at extending his tenure at the Premiership club. . . . more . . .
Celtic end O'Neill era on high with Cup triumph (May 28, 2005)
Celtic ended the Martin O'Neill era on a high by lifting the Scottish Cup with a 1-0 win over Dundee United at Hampden. . . . more . . .
Smith wary of Belarus threat (May 28, 2005)
Scotland manager Walter Smith has warned his players that Belarus pose the biggest threat to their World Cup qualification hopes. . . . more . . .
Richardson's dynamic debut leads England past USA (May 28, 2005)
Manchester United winger Kieran Richardson scored twice in his international debut to give England a 2-1 victory over the United States in a friendly with some not-so-friendly moments. . . . more . . .
Gerets resigns from Wolfsburg (May 28, 2005)
Erik Gerets resigned as coach of German championship side VfL Wolfsburg after falling out with sports director Thomas Strunz. . . . more . . .
Liverpool heroes parade cup as pressure mounts for UEFA re-think (May 27, 2005)
New European champions Liverpool got a rousing hero's welcome from home-town fans, but behind the scenes pressure was growing on UEFA to let the club defend their title next season. . . . more . . .
United release Carroll and Ricardo (May 27, 2005)
Manchester United have released Northern Ireland goalkeeper Roy Carroll and third choice keeper Ricardo. . . . more . . .
Crouch set for England debut while Campbell, James make comebacks (May 27, 2005)
Southampton forward Peter Crouch will have his chance to show he belongs in his England debut here Saturday while veterans Sol Campbell and David James try to make the most of comeback efforts. . . . more . . .
Serie A to turn nasty on final day (May 27, 2005)
The final day of the Serie A season promises to be a real nail-biter with as many as nine clubs involved in the relegation scrap and two fighting for the final Champions League place. . . . more . . .
European big guns back Reds Champions League bid (May 27, 2005)
Liverpool's campaign for a Champions League place next season has received heavyweight backing from Europe's top clubs. . . . more . . .
Drunk allegation 'not indicative' of Moore's character: Farina (May 27, 2005)
Australia coach Frank Farina said he intends to speak with skipper Craig Moore over drunken allegations made against him by his former German club at a team camp in London next week. . . . more . . .
Bayern eye Schalke revenge to clinch double (May 27, 2005)
Having already lifted the German championship Bayern Munich are targeting a sixth league and cup double when they take on Schalke 04 in Saturday's cup final in Berlin. . . . more . . .
Bordeaux want Liverpool's Smicer (May 27, 2005)
Struggling French side Bordeaux are hoping to secure the services of Liverpool's Vladimir Smicer, whose contract at Anfield has expired. . . . more . . .
Football might always be US sport of the future (May 27, 2005)
US football coach Bruce Arena has a timetable for when the global game will join the elite American sports scene and allow the US squad to schedule World Cup qualifying matches anywhere. . . . more . . .
Cech writes off Liverpool's Premiership credentials (May 27, 2005)
Petr Cech has dismissed newly-crowned European champions Liverpool's hopes of wresting the Premiership title away from Stamford Bridge next season. . . . more . . .
Japan's World Cup hopes take a dive with 1-0 defeat to UAE (May 27, 2005)
Asian champions Japan's World Cup hopes took a dive when they were defeated 1-0 by the United Arab Emirates in the Kirin Cup football tournament. . . . more . . .
Niemi eyes move to Glasgow giants Celtic (May 27, 2005)
Antti Niemi's agent has claimed the former Rangers goalkeeper would jump at the chance to speak to Gordon Strachan about a possible move to Celtic next season. . . . more . . .
French league climaxes with fight for Euro places (May 27, 2005)
The French championship comes to a head on Saturday with the once-mighty Nantes staring down the barrels of the second division, while Lille and Monaco face crunch games to secure the second automatic qualifying spot for next season's Champions League. . . . more . . .
Viduka to return from injury for Australia against New Zealand (May 27, 2005)
Middlesbrough striker Mark Viduka will make his return from long-term injury for Australia against New Zealand in a football international at Craven Cottage in London on June 9. . . . more . . .
Jealous? Not me, says former Red Owen (May 27, 2005)
Former Anfield star Michael Owen has denied he is jealous of Liverpool's Champions League triumph following his move to Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Spanish clubs take the maths test (May 27, 2005)
Four into two doesn't go but you don't need to be a maths expert to explain that fact to Villarreal, Real Betis, Sevilla and Espanyol. . . . more . . .
Birmingham chief threatens to sue Palace counterpart (May 27, 2005)
Birmingham co-owner David Sullivan has threatened to sue Crystal Palace counterpart Simon Jordan over an alleged verbal attack on the St Andrews club and its chief executive Karren Brady. . . . more . . .
Celtic look to salvage season (May 27, 2005)
Celtic will hope to salvage something from a disappointing season when they meet Dundee United in Saturday's Scottish Cup final. . . . more . . .
Bolton close in on permanent Diouf deal (May 27, 2005)
Bolton chairman Phil Gartside has revealed he is "90 percent confident" of wrapping up a deal to sign Liverpool striker El-Hadji Diouf. . . . more . . .
United's Ronaldo denies Real rumours (May 27, 2005)
Cristiano Ronaldo has distanced himself from speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Benitez set to break up European champions (May 27, 2005)
Rafa Benitez is ready to launch a new dynasty at Liverpool by breaking up the European champions. . . . more . . .
Everton eyeing Chelsea striker Forssell (May 26, 2005)
Everton are looking to bolster their attack with a bid for Chelsea's Finland striker Mikael Forssell, according to BBC Sport. . . . more . . .
Veteran Lambert hails departing O'Neill (May 26, 2005)
Paul Lambert hailed departing Celtic boss Martin O'Neill as a managerial genius in the mould of Ottmar Hitzfeld. . . . more . . .
Anfield hall of fame welcomes Benitez (May 26, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez made the bold claim that he wanted to join legendary managers such as Bill Shankly and Bob Paisley in the Anfield hall of fame. . . . more . . .
Fournier in charge at PSG (May 26, 2005)
Paris Saint-Germain have confirmed that Laurent Fournier will be their coach for next season after impressing in the job during the final few games of the season. . . . more . . .
Fourner in charge at PSG (May 26, 2005)
Paris Saint-Germain have confirmed that Laurent Fournier will be their coach for next season after impressing in the job during the final few games of the season. . . . more . . .
Moyes finally lands Davies (May 26, 2005)
Wales midfielder Simon Davies has completed his 3.5 million pounds (5.46 million dollars) move from Tottenham to Everton. . . . more . . .
Ezquerro joins Barca from Athletic on a free (May 26, 2005)
Athletic Bilbao striker Santiago Ezquerro is set to join newly-crowned Spanish champions Barcelona for free after agreeing terms on a three-year deal, the player announced at a press conference. . . . more . . .
UEFA holds firm on Liverpool decision (May 26, 2005)
Liverpool's stunning comeback win in the European Champions League final has not convinced UEFA to change the rules and allow them to defend the title next season. . . . more . . .
Grobbelaar the wobbler Dudek's inspiration (May 26, 2005)
Bruce Grobbelaar's penalty-shoot-out heroics for Liverpool in the 1984 European Cup final proved the inspiration for the present incumbent Jerzy Dudek, the Polish guardian admitted. . . . more . . .
O'Neill vows to return to management (May 26, 2005)
Martin O'Neill has not ruled out a return to football management in the future despite quitting Celtic. . . . more . . .
World Cup ramifications loom large over England-US friendly (May 26, 2005)
Young talent trying to crack England's 2006 World Cup lineup will have their chance to impress coach Sven-Goran Eriksson when a two-game US tour kicks off here Saturday against the Americans. . . . more . . .
Liverpool heroes parade cup as pressure mounts for UEFA re-think (May 26, 2005)
New European champions Liverpool paraded their hard-won trophy before jubilant fans in their home city, as pressure mounted on UEFA to let the club defend their title next season. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid keen to develop brand in China but denies buying stake in club (May 26, 2005)
Spanish football giant Real Madrid is negotiating with the CITIC Group, China's largest financial conglomerate, to develop its brand in China but has denied buying into a Chinese club. . . . more . . .
PSV's Vogel signs for Milan for free (May 26, 2005)
PSV Eindhoven's Swiss international midfielder Johan Vogel reportedly signed a three-year deal with beaten Champions League finalists AC Milan. . . . more . . .
Manchester United board finally caves in to Glazer (May 26, 2005)
The board of Manchester United caved in to Malcolm Glazer after agreeing to sell its minority stake to the US tycoon who recently won control of the world's richest football club. . . . more . . .
Celtic boss O'Neill to resign (May 25, 2005)
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill announced he will resign after Saturday's Scottish Cup final to help care for his sick wife. . . . more . . .
Blood sweat and tears not enough to save Union (May 25, 2005)
The valiant effort by the supporters of former East German club FC Union Berlin to maintain their professional status by selling their blood to raise funds proved futile as the board admitted defeat and were forced to become an amateur outfit. . . . more . . .
Liverpool unknowns aim to upstage Milan superstars (May 25, 2005)
European opponents used to be gripped with fear when they stole a glance at the Liverpool teamsheet with greats such as Kevin Keegan, Graeme Souness and Ian Rush all regarded as players of the highest order. . . . more . . .
NFL wants explanation on casino links from Tampa Bay owner Glazer (May 25, 2005)
The National Football League (NFL) has some questions for Tampa Bay Buccaneers owner Malcolm Glazer regarding Manchester United's links to a Las Vegas casino. . . . more . . .
South Africa coach slams Sir Alex over miss-Fortune (May 25, 2005)
South Africa coach Stuart Baxter slammed Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson after being forced to omit Quinton Fortune for a World Cup qualifier in Cape Verde next weekend. . . . more . . .
Dudek the hero as gutsy Liverpool win final (May 25, 2005)
Liverpool were crowned European champions for the first time in 21 years after beating AC Milan 3-2 on penalties in a dramatic final at the Ataturk Olympic stadium. . . . more . . .
Twenty year famine makes Liverpool hungry for success (May 25, 2005)
Having fed off scraps from Manchester United and Arsenal for over a decade, Rafael Benitez believes his Liverpool side have worked up a big enough appetite to overcome the experience of AC Milan in the Champions League final. . . . more . . .
Liverpool look to seal fairytale return to Europe's top table (May 25, 2005)
Two decades after the Heysel tragedy four-time European champions Liverpool attempt to re-establish themselves as one of the powerhouses in European football when they take on six-time winners AC Milan in the Champions League final. . . . more . . .
Ancelotti ready for Liverpool's 'catenaccio' (May 25, 2005)
AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti expects Liverpool to stick to their Italian style 'catenaccio' game plan in the Champions League final at the Ataturk Olympic stadium. . . . more . . .
World Cup security won't spoil fans' enjoyment: German minister (May 25, 2005)
The 2006 World Cup football finals in Germany will be surrounded by draconian security measures but organisers are determined not to spoil the occasion for the fans, German Interior Minister Otto Schily said. . . . more . . .
Cardiff appoint Dave Jones as manager (May 25, 2005)
Championship side Cardiff City appointed Dave Jones as their new manager on a three-year contract. . . . more . . .
Celtic boss O'Neill set to resign (May 25, 2005)
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is expected to announce that he will resign after Saturday's Scottish Cup final against Dundee United to devote his time to caring for his sick wife. . . . more . . .
Blood, sweat and tears not enough to save Union (May 25, 2005)
The valiant effort by the supporters of former East German club FC Union Berlin to maintain their professional status by selling their blood to raise funds proved futile as the board admitted defeat and were forced to become an amateur outfit. . . . more . . .
Grobbelaar the wobbler Dudek's inspiration (May 25, 2005)
Bruce Grobbelaar's penalty-shoout heroics for Liverpool in the 1984 European Cup final proved the inspiration for the present incumbent Jerzy Dudek, the Polish guardian admitted. . . . more . . .
World Cup security won't spoil fans' enjoyment: Schily (May 25, 2005)
The 2006 World Cup football finals in Germany will be surrounded by draconian security measures but organisers are determined not to spoil the occasion for the fans, according to German Interior Minister Otto Schily. . . . more . . .
France v Argentina replaced by France v Senegal (May 25, 2005)
An upcoming friendly between France and Argentina has been cancelled and replaced by France v Senegal because France was unable to confirm if they could travel to Argentina for a quick return match. . . . more . . .
Ailton claims loyalty to Schalke (May 25, 2005)
Brazilian marksman Ailton appears to have ended speculation about his immediate future at Schalke 04 by saying he intends to stay with the Bundesliga club. . . . more . . .
Milan: From bankruptcy to brilliance in two decades (May 25, 2005)
Long considered one of football's superpowers, AC Milan will contest their 10th European Cup final against English Premiership side Livepool. . . . more . . .
Olympiakos clinch Greek title (May 25, 2005)
Olympiakos secured a league and Cup double with a league-ending 1-0 away victory over Iraklis thanks to a second half goal by Brazilian star Rivaldo. . . . more . . .
Brazilian Paulo Cesar signs for Uniao Leiria (May 25, 2005)
Brazilian striker Paulo Cesar Rocha Rosa has signed for Portuguese first division club Uniao Leiria from rivals Rio Ave. . . . more . . .
Court bans speedy Ferdinand from driving (May 25, 2005)
Manchester United and England footballer Rio Ferdinand was slapped with his fourth driving ban after a court heard he was clocked travelling at more than 169 kilometres (105 miles) an hour. . . . more . . .
Leverkusen's Bierofka joins Stuttgart (May 25, 2005)
Germany international midfielder Daniel Bierofka has joined VfB Stuttgart from Bundesliga neighbours Bayer Leverkusen, Stuttgart announced. . . . more . . .
Twenty year famine makes Liverpool hungry for success (May 24, 2005)
Having fed off scraps from Manchester United and Arsenal for over a decade, Rafael Benitez believes his Liverpool side have worked up a big enough appetite to overcome the experience of AC Milan in Wednesday's Champions League final. . . . more . . .
Former England defender Le Saux retires (May 24, 2005)
Southampton and former England left-back Graeme Le Saux announced his retirement from professional football. . . . more . . .
FC Porto sign Adriaanse as new coach for two years (May 24, 2005)
European champions FC Porto have signed Dutchman Co Adriaanse of first division side AZ Alkmaar as their new coach on a two-year contract starting July 1. . . . more . . .
Real deny megabucks offer for Juve striker Ibrahimovic (May 24, 2005)
Spanish giants Real Madrid denied that they had made a 70 million euros (100 million dollars) bid for Juventus striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic as they seek to make up for a second straight barren season. . . . more . . .
FC Porto choose Adriaanse as new coach (May 24, 2005)
European champions FC Porto have appointed Dutchman Co Adriaanse of first division side AZ Alkmaar as their new coach, FC Porto president Jorge Pinto da Costa said. . . . more . . .
Liverpool look to seal fairytale return to Europe's top table (May 24, 2005)
Two decades after the Heysel tragedy four-time European champions Liverpool attempt to re-establish themselves as one of the powerhouses in European football when they take on six-time winners AC Milan in Wednesday's Champions League final. . . . more . . .
Barcelona offer Argentinian duo for Atletico's Torres (May 24, 2005)
Spanish champions Barcelona are reportedly trying to exchange Argentinian international duo Juan Roman Riquelme and Javier Saviola for Atletico Madrid's Fernando Torres. . . . more . . .
Wembley bridge named White Horse (May 24, 2005)
A footbridge at the new Wembley Stadium will reportedly be named the White Horse Bridge. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Parker keeping clubs waiting (May 24, 2005)
Chelsea midfielder Scott Parker is keeping several English Premiership clubs waiting as he decides on the move that he hopes will kick-start his career. . . . more . . .
Baros on verge of Liverpool exit (May 24, 2005)
Milan Baros has reassured Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez he will give everything in the Champions League final even though the game on Wednesday could be the last of his Anfield career. . . . more . . .
Brussels to mark Heysel, the disaster that changed football (May 24, 2005)
The city of Brussels marks the anniversary of the Heysel stadium disaster on Sunday by commemorating the deaths of 39 people, most of them Italian football supporters, for the first time in 20 years. . . . more . . .
Ancelotti ready for Liverpool's 'catenaccio' (May 24, 2005)
AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti expects Liverpool to stick to their Italian style 'catenaccio' game plan in Wednesday's Champions League final here at the Ataturk Olympic stadium. . . . more . . .
Milan: From bankruptcy to brilliance in two decades (May 24, 2005)
Long considered one of football's superpowers, AC Milan will contest their 10th European Cup final on Wednesday against English Premiership side Livepool. . . . more . . .
Eto'o fined 12,000 euros for insulting Real Madrid (May 24, 2005)
Cameroon's African Footballer of the Year Samuel Eto'o has been fined 12,000 euros by the Spanish football federation for insulting his former club Real Madrid during Barcelona's Spanish League winning celebrations. . . . more . . .
German football federation demands life ban for two corrupt referees (May 24, 2005)
The German football federation demanded that two referees, Jurgen Jansen and Wieland Ziller, suspected of being involved in corruption and illegal betting be banned for life. . . . more . . .
McClaren defends England's US tour (May 24, 2005)
England assistant coach Steve McClaren has defended the forthcoming two-game tour of the United States following criticisms from club managers who say it is too much for the players. . . . more . . .
Carroll to stay at Old Trafford (May 24, 2005)
Goalkeeper Roy Carroll is expected to sign a new contract at Manchester United after coach Sir Alex Ferguson assured him that he has a future at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Feyenoord coach Gullit quits after disappointing season (May 23, 2005)
Former Dutch international Ruud Gullit has quit as coach for Dutch first division team Feyenoord Rotterdam after a disappointing season. . . . more . . .
Real must win something next season: Butragueno (May 23, 2005)
Real Madrid, trophy-less for the last two years, cannot go another season without winning anything, said club vice president and former striker Emilio Butragueno. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann rejects criticism of his US residency ahead of World Cup (May 23, 2005)
German national coach Jurgen Klinsmann, who lives in the United States, rejected criticism from Bayern Munich general manager Uli Hoeness that he should live in Germany to better prepare for the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Souness hit by disrepute charge (May 23, 2005)
Newcastle boss Graeme Souness has been charged with bringing the game into disrepute by the Football Association. . . . more . . .
Glazer investment group to delist Manchester United on June 22 (May 23, 2005)
Bankers representing US tycoon Malcolm Glazer's investment vehicle, Red Football Limited, announced their intention to delist Manchester United from the London Stock Exchange on June 22. . . . more . . .
Antonetti set to coach Nice on three-year contract (May 23, 2005)
Frederic Antonetti is set to sign a three-year contract as coach of Nice, the French first division club revealed. . . . more . . .
O'Neill says Celtic will bounce back (May 23, 2005)
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill says his team will bounce back from the agony of losing the Scottish Premier League in the final minutes of the campaign. . . . more . . .
Dynamo's love affair with Portugal continues as Seitaridis signs (May 23, 2005)
FC Porto's Euro 2004 winning Greek defender Giourkas Seitaridis has been sold to Dynamo Moscow for 10 million euros, the Portuguese first division club said. . . . more . . .
Vieira calls on Coles and Reyes to stick with Gunners (May 23, 2005)
FA Cup-winning captain Patrick Vieira called on teammates Ashley Cole and Jose Antonio Reyes to stick with Arsenal next season. . . . more . . .
Moore rejects Borussia Moenchengladbach's drunken claim (May 23, 2005)
Australian national team skipper Craig Moore has denied a drunken claim that led to his sacking from German club Borussia Moenchengladbach. . . . more . . .
Defence the key to Juve's title success says Capello (May 23, 2005)
Juventus coach Fabio Capello said a mean defence provided the platform for the Turin club's 28th Serie A title. . . . more . . .
Nigerian supporters attack referee after Enugu Rangers eliminated (May 23, 2005)
A Malian referee was assaulted by Nigerian fans as the qualifying phase of the African Confederation Cup came to a stormy end. . . . more . . .
Larsson salutes Barca fans after injury nightmare (May 23, 2005)
Barcelona's Swedish international Henrik Larsson saluted the club's fans after making a late entrance into the club's title-winning party against Villarreal on Sunday to end a months-long injury nightmare. . . . more . . .
Thousands celebrate as Benfica bounce back (May 23, 2005)
Thousands of ecstatic Benfica fans celebrated across Portugal throughout the night after the club won the league championship for the first time in 11 years thanks to a 1-1 draw at Boavista on the final day of the season. . . . more . . .
O'Neill close to resigning at Celtic (May 23, 2005)
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill was said to be on the verge of resigning following the upset loss of the Premier Division title to Rangers on Sunday's final day of the season. . . . more . . .
Hargreaves keen on Liverpool move (May 23, 2005)
Bayern Munich's England midfielder Owen Hargreaves has revealed he would be keen on a move to Rafael Benitez's Liverpool side. . . . more . . .
Smicer returns to Czech side for World Cup qualifiers (May 23, 2005)
Midfielder Vladimir Smicer is included in the Czech squad for World Cup qualifiers against Andorra on June 4 and Macedonia on June 8 after a 10-month-absence, coach Karel Bruckner announced. . . . more . . .
Spaniard to ref Champions League final (May 23, 2005)
Spain's Manuel Enrique Gonzalez will take charge of the Liverpool - AC Milan European Champions League final. . . . more . . .
Couceiro steps down from FC Porto after losing title (May 23, 2005)
FC Porto coach Jose Couceiro has resigned as coach of the European champions after the team failed to win their third straight Portuguese league title losing out to Lisbon-based Benfica. . . . more . . .
Mafia started manipulation not me says Hoyzer (May 22, 2005)
Disgraced German referee Robert Hoyzer has rubbished claims that he was the instigator behind the match-fixing scandal that has crushed the credibility of German football. . . . more . . .
Fenerbahce clinch Turkish title (May 22, 2005)
Istanbul's Fenerbahce clinched the Turkish first division title for the second year running with a 1-0 win in their derby tie against city archrivals Galatasaray. . . . more . . .
Vieira calls on Cole and Reyes to stick with Gunners (May 22, 2005)
FA Cup-winning captain Patrick Vieira called on teammates Ashley Cole and Jose Antonio Reyes to stick with Arsenal next season. . . . more . . .
Gladbach sack Aussie captain Moore for drinking on job (May 22, 2005)
Borussia Monchengladbach have terminated the contract of Australia skipper Craig Moore, claiming the defender turned up drunk for training. . . . more . . .
Mallorca keep survival hopes alive (May 22, 2005)
Relegation-haunted Mallorca kept their hopes of Spanish league survival alive with a storming 3-0 win at midtable Deportivo La Coruna. . . . more . . .
Benfica win Portuguese league for first time in 11 years (May 22, 2005)
Benfica won the Portuguese football league championship for the first time in 11 years after drawing 1-1 at Boavista on the final day of the season. . . . more . . .
Forlan gatecrashes Barca's title party in six-goal thriller (May 22, 2005)
Barcelona came out to a Nou Camp guard of honour from visitors Villarreal -- but that was where the respect ended for the newly-crowned champions as they scrapped their way to a 3-3 draw in their final home game, Diego Forlan netting a hattrick for the visitors. . . . more . . .
Arsenal set to offer Wenger a job for life (May 22, 2005)
Arsenal are set to offer their French manager Arsene Wenger a job for life following their FA Cup final penalty shoot out triumph over Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Celtic lose at Motherwell to hand Rangers title (May 22, 2005)
Two last-gasp Scott McDonald goals gave Motherwell an unbelievable 2-1 win at home to Celtic to hand Rangers the Scottish Premier League title. . . . more . . .