Archive soccer news from around the world
McCarthy super strike gives Gunners more FA Cup woe (Feb 28, 2007)
A Benni McCarthy super strike handed Arsenal their second Cup disappointment in four days and booked Blackburn Rovers' place in the FA Cup sixth round on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Udinese end Inter's record winning run (Feb 28, 2007)
Inter Milan's record run of 17 consecutive Serie A wins was brought to an end after they were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Udinese on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Violence flares in Spanish Cup of shame (Feb 28, 2007)
Violence marred the Spanish Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday as the second leg between Real Betis and city rivals Seville was suspended due to crowd violence after the latter's coach was hit by a bottle. . . . more . . .
Top brain surgeon urges Terry to take it easy (Feb 28, 2007)
One of Britain's top brain surgeons has urged England captain John Terry not to rush back to action after suffering an horrific head injury last weekend. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann honoured by German Chancellor (Feb 28, 2007)
Jurgen Klinsmann, who coached Germany to third place at last year's World Cup, received the country's highest honour on Wednesday at a private ceremeny at the chancellery. . . . more . . .
Amateurs stun Lens as PSG put Cup up for grabs (Feb 28, 2007)
Champions League hopefuls Lens were bundled out of the French Cup by determined amateur side Montceau-les-Mines on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Hamm, Foudy voted into US Hall of Fame (Feb 28, 2007)
Mia Hamm and Julie Foudy, who helped the US women capture two Olympic titles and two World Cup crowns, have been elected to the US Soccer Hall of Fame, the honor shrine announced. . . . more . . .
Arsenal duo deny FA charges (Feb 28, 2007)
Arsenal's Emmanuel Adebayor and Emmanuel Eboue have denied Football Association (FA) charges resulting from Sunday's League Cup final. . . . more . . .
Scottish FA demand Romanov quotes explanation (Feb 28, 2007)
Controversial Hearts owner Vladimir Romanov could find himself in hot water after the Scottish FA asked him to explain comments attributed to him in a Russian football magazine. . . . more . . .
Lens stadium not fit for Champions League: Blatter (Feb 28, 2007)
FIFA President Sepp Blatter has called on UEFA to stop organising Champions League matches at French club Lens's Stade Felix-Bollaert after Manchester United fans were caught in a crush there during a match last week. . . . more . . .
Blatter puts US in pole for 2018, hints at China bid (Feb 28, 2007)
FIFA President Sepp Blatter on Wednesday placed the United States in pole position to host the 2018 World Cup and hinted that China could enter the race to secure the tournament. . . . more . . .
Liverpool's Fowler considering US switch (Feb 28, 2007)
Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler is considering joining former England team-mate David Beckham in the United States, New England Revolution coach Steve Nicol has claimed. . . . more . . .
Nigeria coach Vogts with his feet over pay dispute (Feb 28, 2007)
Former Germany and Scotland coach Berti Vogts cancelled his arrival in Nigeria on Wednesday until the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) pays him three months of his salary up front which was a condition in his contract. . . . more . . .
Barcelona to head to Beijing for Olympic countdown (Feb 28, 2007)
Spanish champions Barcelona will play a friendly match in Beijing in August as part of festivities marking the one-year countdown to the 2008 Olympic Games, a Beijing sports official said on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Eto'o seeks record fourth African title (Feb 28, 2007)
Barcelona star Samuel Eto'o hopes to be named African Footballer of the Year a record fourth consecutive time Thursday. . . . more . . .
Bruce eyes Premiership return (Feb 28, 2007)
Steve Bruce believes Birmingham are on course for promotion after Nicklas Bendtner fired his side back to the top of the Championship on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
United goal spree was the best ever says Ferguson (Feb 28, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson has seen virtually everything during his long and successful career but even the Manchester United manager was stunned by his side's early goal spree in their FA Cup win at Reading. . . . more . . .
Southgate savours United clash in FA Cup quarter-final (Feb 28, 2007)
Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate can't wait to pit his wits against Sir Alex Ferguson after his side set up an FA Cup quarter-final clash against Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Penalty kings Middlesbrough edge into last eight (Feb 27, 2007)
Middlesbrough booked a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals after a nerve-wracking penalty shoot-out win at West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
United hold off resurgent Royals to reach FA Cup quarter-finals (Feb 27, 2007)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson's decision to rest several first team players was justified as the Premiership challengers narrowly edged past Reading 3-2 to earn themselves a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals. . . . more . . .
Barthez the hero as Nantes, Marseille reach French Cup semis (Feb 27, 2007)
Former France goalkeeper Fabien Barthez was the hero for new club Nantes as he helped them reach the French Cup semi-finals on Tuesday with a 6-5 win on penalties over Sedan, as his former club Marseille crushed Brittany minnows Vannes 5-0. . . . more . . .
New women's league hopes to build on China World Cup (Feb 27, 2007)
Investors in six US cities will attempt to open a new women's football league in 2008, trying to capitalize on interest created in America by September's Women's World Cup in China. . . . more . . .
Wenger confident in young Gunners (Feb 27, 2007)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insisted Tuesday that he has full confidence in his young Gunners to deliver the goods in their midweek FA Cup fifth-round replay at Blackburn. . . . more . . .
Danish club fined for racist fans (Feb 27, 2007)
A football club in Denmark have been fined for the first time by the Danish Football Federation (DBU) on Tuesday for racism by their fans. . . . more . . .
Keane red card appeal rejected (Feb 27, 2007)
Tottenham's Robbie Keane has had his claim for wrongful dismissal rejected by the Football Association (FA) on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Ferguson staying put at Manchester United (Feb 27, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson intends to stay on as coach of Manchester United for at least another two years. . . . more . . .
AC Milan faced with defensive crisis for Palermo clash (Feb 27, 2007)
AC Milan are facing a crisis ahead of their crucial Serie A match away to Palermo on Wednesday with eight defenders ruled out through injury and suspension. . . . more . . .
Barcelona rest Eto'o for Cup match (Feb 27, 2007)
Barcelona said on Tuesday they will rest three-time African Player of the Year Samuel Eto'o in their Spanish Cup quarter final return leg on Wednesday against Real Zaragoza on medical advice. . . . more . . .
Bentley signs new contract with Blackburn (Feb 27, 2007)
David Bentley has been rewarded for his outstanding form for Blackburn this season with a new contract that ties him to the club until 2011. . . . more . . .
Nesta eyeing AC Milan comeback (Feb 27, 2007)
AC Milan received a welcome boost on Tuesday when injury-plagued Italy international Alessandro Nesta said he expected to return to action in three weeks. . . . more . . .
FA comes down hard on League Cup brawlers (Feb 27, 2007)
Arsenal's Emmanuel Adebayor and Chelsea's John Obi Mikel were banned for three and four matches respectively on Tuesday as the Football Association (FA) came down hard on the players at the centre of the brawl that marred Sunday's League Cup final. . . . more . . .
Santa Cruz looking for Bayern exit door (Feb 27, 2007)
Bayern Munich striker Roque Santa Cruz has pleaded for a club in England or Spain to rescue him from the frustration of sitting on the German champions' substitutes bench. . . . more . . .
Reading goalkeeper Federici aims to frustrate Man Utd (Feb 27, 2007)
The little town of Nowra in New South Wales will be keeping a night-time vigil as their favourite footballing son stands between Manchester United and a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals. . . . more . . .
Hiddink hit with fine and suspended sentence (Feb 27, 2007)
Former South Korea and Australia coach Guus Hiddink escaped a prison term but was found guilty of tax fraud and handed a fine and suspended sentence here on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
FIFA dragged into Canadian row over girl's hijab (Feb 26, 2007)
A young girl's expulsion from a tournament this weekend for wearing a hijab will be upheld by Quebec soccer officials, they said Monday, unless the world soccer federation FIFA changes gear rules. . . . more . . .
Terry has no memory of head injury (Feb 26, 2007)
John Terry said Monday he has no memory of the sickening head injury that saw him carried off on a stretcher during Chelsea's 2-1 League Cup Final win against London rivals Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Nakamura breaks hand (Feb 26, 2007)
Celtic's Shunsuke Nakamura has broken a bone in his left hand, the club's official website said Monday. . . . more . . .
Canadian businessman close to finalising Marseille purchase (Feb 26, 2007)
Jack Kachkar's bid to buy French footballing giants Marseille is in the process of being finalised, a spokesman for the Canadian businessman confirmed on Monday. . . . more . . .
Lille continue United goal appeal (Feb 26, 2007)
Lille, whose protest against Manchester United's controversial Champions League winning goal was thrown out by UEFA last week, announced Monday that they intend to appeal the decision. . . . more . . .
Chelsea, Arsenal appeal League Cup red cards (Feb 26, 2007)
Arsenal and Chelsea have lodged appeals against the red cards handed out to Emmanuel Adebayor and Mikel John Obi during Sunday's League Cup final, the Football Association (FA) confirmed Monday. . . . more . . .
Tottenham Keane for red card to be overturned (Feb 26, 2007)
Tottenham appealed to the Football Association on Monday against the red card issued to Robbie Keane in their 4-1 Premiership win over Bolton at White Hart Lane. . . . more . . .
Mourinho pointing at more Chelsea silverware (Feb 26, 2007)
Jose Mourinho's five-finger salute following Chelsea's 2-1 League Cup final defeat of Arsenal appears to have further notified the club of his intention to stay on as manager. . . . more . . .
Liverpool sign Ukrainian striker Voronin (Feb 26, 2007)
Ukrainian star Andriy Voronin has signed for English Premiership giants Liverpool on a four year contract the club announced on Monday. . . . more . . .
Barcelona open two-point lead (Feb 26, 2007)
Samuel Eto'o made a goal-scoring return as Barcelona put daylight between themselves and their Spanish title rivals by thrashing Athletic Bilbao 3-0. . . . more . . .
All change as Cagliari and Torino sack their coaches (Feb 26, 2007)
Serie A strugglers Cagliari and Torino both sacked their coaches on Monday and replaced them with former bosses. . . . more . . .
We were wrong, admits Madrid derby referee (Feb 26, 2007)
A Spanish referee admitted on Monday he blundered in disallowing an Atletico Madrid goal in Saturday's local derby with rivals Real Madrid which ended in a 1-1 draw. . . . more . . .
Eto'o adds shine to Barcelona brilliance (Feb 26, 2007)
Barcelona's Samuel Eto'o could not hide his delight after making a stunning return to the Spanish league leaders' starting line-up in their emphatic 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Totti to remain Roma penalty-taker despite sixth miss (Feb 26, 2007)
Roma captain Francesco Totti will continue to take penalties for the Serie A club despite missing his sixth spot-kick of the season. . . . more . . .
FA await report before acting on League Cup football brawl (Feb 26, 2007)
Arsenal and Chelsea players involved in a brawl during a dramatic League Cup final on Sunday are facing the scrutiny of the Football Association. . . . more . . .
Allardyce gives up on Champions League (Feb 26, 2007)
Bolton Wanderers manager Sam Allardyce insisted his team's chances of qualifying for next season's Champions League were extinguished by their 4-1 loss to Tottenham here at White Hart Lane. . . . more . . .
Last-gasp Nancy hold Lens as PSG slip again (Feb 25, 2007)
A last-gasp goal from Nancy's Youssouf Hadji held second-placed Lens to a frustrating 2-2 home draw as Paris Saint Germain's revival proved short-lived as they slumped to a 2-0 loss to Saint Etienne in French league action on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Adebayor baffled by Cup red card (Feb 25, 2007)
Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor insisted he should not have been sent off after the mass brawl that marred his side's 2-1 League Cup final defeat against Chelsea on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Terry out of hospital after League Cup horror injury (Feb 25, 2007)
Chelsea captain John Terry returned to be with his celebrating teammates less than two hours after being stretchered off during the Blues' 2-1 League Cup final win against Arsenal at the Millennium Stadium here Sunday. . . . more . . .
Eto'o shines as Barcelona open two-point lead (Feb 25, 2007)
Samuel Eto'o made a goal-scoring return as Barcelona put daylight between themselves and their Spanish title rivals by thrashing Athletic Bilbao 3-0. . . . more . . .
Beaten Schalke suffer German title setback (Feb 25, 2007)
Bundesliga leaders Schalke 04 slumped to their fourth league defeat of the season when they were beaten 1-0 by Bayer Leverkusen. . . . more . . .
Nonda helps Rovers dent Pompey's Euro push (Feb 25, 2007)
Shabani Nonda grabbed two goals as Blackburn bounced back from their UEFA Cup exit to put a dent in Portsmouth's European ambitions with a 3-0 win on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Keane the hero and villain as Spurs beat Bolton (Feb 25, 2007)
Tottenham forward Robbie Keane scored twice and was then sent-off in his side's 4-1 Premiership victory over Bolton Wanderers at White Hart Lane Sunday. . . . more . . .
Drogba double gives Chelsea stormy League Cup victory (Feb 25, 2007)
Didier Drogba fired Chelsea to League Cup final glory as his late winner clinched a 2-1 victory over Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Five-star Inter chalk up 17th straight win (Feb 25, 2007)
Inter Milan remain 14 points clear at the top of Serie A after extending their record run of league wins to 17 matches with a 5-2 victory against Catania on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Terry suffers another injury blow (Feb 25, 2007)
Chelsea captain John Terry has suffered another injury blow when he was stretchered off during his side's League Cup final against Arsenal on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Celtic leave it late to see off Caley (Feb 25, 2007)
Celtic came from behind in dramatic fashion to secure a 2-1 Scottish Cup quarter-final victory away to Inverness Caledonian Thistle on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Australia's Ceccoli rejoins Littbarski in Japan (Feb 25, 2007)
Ex-Australia defender Alvin Ceccoli is to rejoin former coach Pierre Littbarski at Japan's Avispa Fukuoka. . . . more . . .
Zaccheroni refuses to quit Torino hotseat (Feb 24, 2007)
Alberto Zaccheroni insisted on Saturday that he will not quit as Torino coach despite overseeing a sixth consecutive defeat which piled on the relegation misery for the Turin side. . . . more . . .
New boy Higuain saves Real in Madrid derby (Feb 24, 2007)
New boy Gonzalo Higuain scored his first goal for Real Madrid to earn a point in a 1-1 draw against city rivals Atletico Madrid on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Sowunmi so good for Hibs (Feb 24, 2007)
Thomas Sowunmi's first goal for Hibernian saw the Edinburgh club into the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup with a 2-1 win away to Queen of the South on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Everton push Watford nearer the drop (Feb 24, 2007)
Everton edged bottom-of-the-table Watford closer to the Premiership exit door with a 3-0 win at Vicarage Road here Saturday. . . . more . . .
Valencia's Del Horno returns after achilles injury (Feb 24, 2007)
Valencia's Spanish international defender Asier Del Horno is set to play his first game since moving from English champions Chelsea last summer, the club announced here on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Lyon snatch point in last minute comeback (Feb 24, 2007)
Champions Lyon scored two last-minute goals to snatch a point at home to Sochaux on Saturday, denying their visitors a place in the French league's top three. . . . more . . .
Bayern return to winning ways (Feb 24, 2007)
Bayern Munich shrugged off their midweek Champions League defeat at Real Madrid to beat Wolfsburg 2-1 on Saturday to hand coach Ottmar Hitzfeld a morale-boosting win. . . . more . . .
San Siro given green light to fully reopen (Feb 24, 2007)
The San Siro stadium in Milan shared by AC and Inter Milan has been fully reopened, the Italian sports ministry said Saturday. . . . more . . .
Fowler spot-on to fire Liverpool to easy win (Feb 24, 2007)
Robbie Fowler marked his first Premiership start for five months with two goals from the penalty spot as Liverpool cruised to a 4-0 win against Sheffield United at Anfield on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Dida on his way out, suggests Ancelotti (Feb 24, 2007)
AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti suggested Saturday that the club's Brazilian keeper Dida could leave when his contract runs out at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Terry to make surprise return in League Cup final (Feb 24, 2007)
Chelsea captain John Terry will make a surprise return from his ankle injury in Sunday's League Cup final against Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Viduka and Yakubu sink Reading (Feb 24, 2007)
Middlesbrough's strike duo of Mark Viduka and Aiyegbeni Yakubu both scored in a 2-1 Premiership win over Reading which dealt a blow to the visitors' European hopes at the Riverside here Saturday. . . . more . . .
Curbishley's job safe say West Ham (Feb 24, 2007)
West Ham manager Alan Curbishley has been told his job is safe despite Saturday's 4-0 thrashing at relegation rivals Charlton. . . . more . . .
Eto'o back in Barcelona squad (Feb 24, 2007)
Cameroon international forward Samuel Eto'o is back in Barcelona's squad to face Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, the club said Saturday. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo late show extends United's lead (Feb 24, 2007)
Cristiano Ronaldo's superb late winner moved Manchester United nine points clear of Chelsea at the top of the Premiership after they came from behind to beat Fulham 2-1 at Craven Cottage here Saturday. . . . more . . .
Mourinho draws up 2008 Premiership battle plans (Feb 24, 2007)
Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho has given more clues as to his future whereabouts by claiming he is already well ahead with his plans for next season's Premiership campaign. . . . more . . .
Zidane hails Asia's 'big step forward' (Feb 24, 2007)
French star Zinedine Zidane praised Asian football's "big step forward" on Saturday as he dazzled more than 10,000 fans at a charity match in northern Thailand. . . . more . . .
Alves hat-trick fires Osaka to Super Cup win (Feb 24, 2007)
Last year's top goalscorer Magno Alves hit a hat-trick to fire Gamba Osaka to a 4-0 victory over J-League champions Urawa Red Diamonds to win the Super Cup for the first time on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Stuttgart slip up in Schalke pursuit (Feb 23, 2007)
Stuttgart wasted a golden chance to close the gap on Bundesliga leaders Schalke 04 on Friday when they were held to a 0-0 draw by Hertha Berlin. . . . more . . .
Barca and Real Madrid join battle to sign 11-year-old ace (Feb 23, 2007)
Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid are among the clubs battling to sign an 11-year-old striker, seen as a rising star in his native Argentina. . . . more . . .
Rangers challenge McGregor's red card (Feb 23, 2007)
Rangers will challenge the red card handed out to goalkeeper Allan McGregor in the UEFA Cup win over Hapoel Tel Aviv, the Scottish club said on Friday. . . . more . . .
UEFA throw out Lille goal appeal (Feb 23, 2007)
UEFA on Friday rejected Lille's protest about Manchester United's controversial winning goal in their Champions League clash on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Zidane, Ronaldo headline Match Against Poverty (Feb 23, 2007)
Football legends Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo will each captain a team in the fourth edition of the Match Against Poverty to be held at the Stade Velodrome on March 19. . . . more . . .
Czech's confirm Cech authorised to wear headguard (Feb 23, 2007)
Czech federation officials confirmed Friday that international goalkeeper Petr Cech has been authorised by UEFA to wear a headguard in the European Championship qualifiers. . . . more . . .
Ferguson warns race far from over (Feb 23, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson has warned the Premiership title race will be far from over even if his Manchester United side move nine points clear of second-placed Chelsea this weekend. . . . more . . .
Ferguson repeats Lille criticism (Feb 23, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson has repeated his criticism of Lille's behaviour during this week's Champions League tie and insisted the French club have no grounds for complaint about Ryan Giggs' match-winning goal. . . . more . . .
Barcelona players defend Ronaldinho's waistline (Feb 23, 2007)
Barcelona players defended their Brazilian international team-mate Ronaldinho on Friday against media allegations that he is under form this season because of his expanding waistline. . . . more . . .
In Italian football, the show goes on despite tragedy (Feb 23, 2007)
It seems the death of Filippo Raciti may have counted for little as far as the ugly face of Italian football is concerned. . . . more . . .
Hearts chief launches bizarre tirade (Feb 22, 2007)
Hearts majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov, who ordered bananas to be handed out to football reporters last weekend, on Thursday launched another bizarre tirade. . . . more . . .
Leverkusen experience too much, says Friedel (Feb 22, 2007)
Blackburn goalkeeper Brad Friedel claimed his team were outdone by the European experience of Bayer Leverkusen after the German outfit progressed to the UEFA Cup last 16 with a 0-0 second leg draw at Ewood Park on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Ferguson double steers 10-man Gers into last 16 (Feb 22, 2007)
A Barry Ferguson double helped 10-man Rangers ease into the UEFA Cup last 16 with a comfortable 4-0 victory at home to Israeli side Hapoel Tel-Aviv. . . . more . . .
McCarthy misses cost Blackburn in UEFA Cup (Feb 22, 2007)
Benni McCarthy lost his goalscoring touch as Blackburn's UEFA Cup campaign came to an end with a 0-0 draw against Bayer Leverkusen on Thursday. . . . more . . .
by Mark Ogden (Feb 22, 2007)
Blackburn goalkeeper Brad Friedel claimed his team were outdone by the European experience of Bayer Leverkusen after the German outfit progressed to the UEFA Cup last 16 with a 0-0 second leg draw at Ewood Park on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Troubled Parma slump out of Europe (Feb 22, 2007)
Serie A strugglers Parma were knocked out of the UEFA Cup after losing 1-0 at home to Portuguese side Sporting Braga. . . . more . . .
Newcastle stroll into UEFA Cup last 16 (Feb 22, 2007)
Newcastle cruised into the last 16 of the UEFA Cup following a 1-0 victory over Belgian minnows Zulte-Waregem at St James' Park. . . . more . . .
Football: Leverkusen experience too much, says Friedel (Feb 22, 2007)
Blackburn goalkeeper Brad Friedel claimed his team were outdone by the European experience of Bayer Leverkusen after the German outfit progressed to the UEFA Cup last 16 with a 0-0 second leg draw at Ewood Park on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Emerson did not refuse to play, says Capello (Feb 22, 2007)
Real Madrid coach Fabio Capello moved to quash further murmurs of dissent inside the Bernabeu on Thursday by denying that Brazilian midfielder Emerson had refused to play against Bayern Munich. . . . more . . .
Newcastle count on Dyer for UEFA Cup clash with Zulte-Waregem (Feb 22, 2007)
Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer was in optimistic mood ahead of their UEFA Cup match at home to Belgian club Zulte-Waregem on Thursday night. . . . more . . .
Inter Milan's Vieira very doubtful for Valencia match (Feb 22, 2007)
Inter Milan's dynamic French midfielder Patrick Vieira is very doubtful for their crucial Champions League last 16, second leg away to Valencia, club doctor Andrea Butti told AFP on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Catania lose appeal against stadium ban (Feb 22, 2007)
The Italian football federation's disciplinary commission on Thursday rejected Catania's appeal against their stadium ban. . . . more . . .
Juventus confirm Grygera deal (Feb 22, 2007)
Juventus have completed the signing of Czech Republic international Zdenek Grygera, the Italian second division club confirmed on Thursday. . . . more . . .
CAF envoys set conditions for chaotic Kenyan football (Feb 22, 2007)
African football governing body officials sent to Kenya to help resolve the country's crisis-hit sport on Thursday said Nairobi must fulfil four key conditions in to order to return normalcy. . . . more . . .
Manchester City in takeover discussions (Feb 22, 2007)
English Premiership club Manchester City said in a statement to London's Stock Exchange on Thursday they were having discussions about a possible takeover of the club. . . . more . . .
Knee-victim Cole unscathed after run-out (Feb 22, 2007)
Chelsea's knee-victim Ashley Cole has passed a significant test on the road back to full fitness after coming through unscathed in a midweek reserve fixture. . . . more . . .
Hargreaves set for England recall (Feb 22, 2007)
Bayern Munich midfielder Owen Hargreaves is set for a long-awaited recall by England manager Steve McLaren following his impressive showing against Real Madrid in midweek Champions League action. . . . more . . .
There is confusion at Real Madrid: Reyes (Feb 22, 2007)
Real Madrid's Spanish international Jose Antonio Reyes admitted that the Spanish giants are blundering their way through the season, Spanish radio reported Thursday. . . . more . . .
Lille imply United should be thrown out of competition (Feb 22, 2007)
Lille director general Xavier Thuilot implied Manchester United should be thrown out of the Champions League following incidents involving their supporters in Tuesday night's match. . . . more . . .
Barcelona now need to become miracle workers (Feb 22, 2007)
'Miracle' was a word regularly used by many of the Spanish newspapers on Thursday in the wake of European champions Barcelona's shock 2-1 defeat by their predecessors Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Step up in class exposes Inter Milan's weaknesses (Feb 22, 2007)
Inter Milan may be 14 points clear at the top of Serie A after 16 consecutive wins, but their Champions League hopes hang in the balance after a 2-2 home draw against Valencia. . . . more . . .
Mancini backs Inter to reign in Spain (Feb 21, 2007)
Roberto Mancini boldly predicted his Inter Milan team would reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League despite being held to a 2-2 draw by Valencia. . . . more . . .
Jenas's late winner stuns Everton (Feb 21, 2007)
Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas grabbed a late goal to continue his side's resurgence with a 2-1 win at Everton on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Folan saves 10-man Wigan (Feb 21, 2007)
Caleb Folan rescued 10-man Wigan as his goal earned a crucial 1-1 draw at relegation rivals Watford on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Battling Bellamy and Riise swing tie Liverpool's way (Feb 21, 2007)
Only a few days ago, Liverpool's Craig Bellamy and John Arne Riise were battling each other but the pair joined forces to give Liverpool a memorable 2-1 win at Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Terry injury blights battling Chelsea display (Feb 21, 2007)
Chelsea emerged from a Champions League battle with FC Porto as favourites to reach the quarter-finals after a pulsating 1-1 draw in the first leg at the Estadio do Dragao. . . . more . . .
It's the life of Riley for referee as Lyon fail to roar (Feb 21, 2007)
Roma and Lyon played out a damp squib of a 0-0 draw in rainy Rome's Olympic Stadium in the Champions League last 16 first leg. . . . more . . .
Liverpool's Benitez pardons bad boy Bellamy (Feb 21, 2007)
Liverpool coach Rafa Benitez sprung his promised surprise on Barcelona even before the kick off by naming Craig Bellamy to start their Champions League last 16 first leg match on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Henry backs comeback kings to see off PSV (Feb 21, 2007)
Thierry Henry believes Arsenal's comeback kings will show their resilience yet again by knocking PSV Eindhoven out of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
No UEFA sanction over Rangers one-arm salutes (Feb 21, 2007)
European football's governing body UEFA will not be taking action against Rangers over one-arm salutes made by the Scottish club's fans in their UEFA Cup match at Hapoel Tel Aviv. . . . more . . .
Sampdoria captain tests positive for cocaine (Feb 21, 2007)
Sampdoria captain Francesco Flachi has tested positive for cocaine, the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) announced Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Stadium move puts Gunners in red (Feb 21, 2007)
Arsenal, in debt after the construction of their new Emirates Stadium, on Wednesday announced a loss of 6.2 million pounds (12 million dollars) for the six months up to the end of last November. . . . more . . .
Beckham could be used in USA 2018 bid (Feb 21, 2007)
Former England captain David Beckham could be used to promote a United States bid in competition with England for the 2018 World Cup finals, a newspaper reported Wednesday. . . . more . . .
G14 could withdraw complaint against FIFA (Feb 21, 2007)
The G14, a group of European football's richest clubs, hinted they might withdraw their complaint to the European Court of Justice in connection with the Abdelmajid Oulmers affair, G14 official Thomas Kurth said in Sport-Bild magazine. . . . more . . .
Beckham could be used in USA 2018 bid - report (Feb 21, 2007)
Former England captain David Beckham could be used to promote a United States bid in competition with England for the 2018 World Cup finals, reports say Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Raul says Real can win in Munich but Kahn warns all to play for (Feb 21, 2007)
After stirring themselves for one of their best performances of a season which has been deeply disappointing for both, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have it all to play for in Bavaria on March 7 in their Champions Leg return after the Spaniards' 3-2 first leg win. . . . more . . .
UEFA to probe Lille-United incidents (Feb 21, 2007)
European football's governing body UEFA confirmed Wednesday that they have officially opened an investigation into incidents which marred the Champions League last 16, first leg match between Manchester United's and Lille in Lens. . . . more . . .
Mourinho homecoming gives Chelsea recovery test (Feb 21, 2007)
The strength of Chelsea's recent revival faces its first real test when the English champions take on their Portuguese counterparts, FC Porto, here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid to protest to UEFA over van Bommel protest (Feb 21, 2007)
Real Madrid will protest to European football's governing body UEFA about Bayern Munich's Mark van Bommel's obscene gesture, according to Spanish media reports on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Barcelona and Liverpool aim for football not in-fighting (Feb 21, 2007)
Barcelona and Liverpool, the last two Champions League winners, will both be trying to put their off-the-field problems behind them in their last 16 first leg encounter on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Celtic face uphill task after Milan draw (Feb 20, 2007)
Celtic's hopes of reaching the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in their history were left hanging by a thread after drawing 0-0 with AC Milan. . . . more . . .
Tempers flare over United's controversial victory (Feb 20, 2007)
Manchester United snatched a vital 1-0 Champions League last 16 first leg victory in controversial circumstances against French side Lille. . . . more . . .
Capello full of praise for Beckham as Real edge Bayern (Feb 20, 2007)
Real Madrid coach Fabio Capello was full of praise for English veteran David Beckham after the man he banished for a month helped set up two goals in Tuesday's 3-2 Champions League round of 16 first leg win. . . . more . . .
Mendez make misfiring Gunners pay the price (Feb 20, 2007)
Edison Mendez punished wasteful Arsenal with a stunning strike to clinch a 1-0 win for PSV Eindhoven in the first leg of their Champions League first knockout round tie. . . . more . . .
Players have now clubbed together says Liverpool boss (Feb 20, 2007)
Liverpool coach Rafa Benitez said at a press conference that his players had been working together on more than their golf swing at their now-notorious 10-day training camp in Portugal. . . . more . . .
Barca explain Eto'o absence (Feb 20, 2007)
Three-time African Player of the Year Samuel Eto'o has been left out of the Barcelona squad that will play Liverpool in their Champions League last 16 first leg match. . . . more . . .
Mourinho claims immunity from Chelsea pressure (Feb 20, 2007)
Jose Mourinho marked his return to the city where he made his name by claiming that his 2004 Champions League with FC Porto had immunised him against pressure to deliver European football's biggest prize for Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Mascherano could make surprise Liverpool debut (Feb 20, 2007)
Liverpool coach Rafa Benitez revealed that new signing Javier Mascherano could make his debut for The Reds in their Champions League last 16 first leg match against Barcelona on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Barton incident dropped by FA (Feb 20, 2007)
Manchester City's Joey Barton will not be the subject of further action by the Football Association who said there was not enough evidence to inquire further following his clash with Portsmouth's Pedro Mendes. . . . more . . .
Liverpool bring back boyhood memories for Rijkaard (Feb 20, 2007)
Barcelona's laidback coach Frank Rijkaard doesn't get emotional, at least not usually in public, but the prospect of playing Liverpool in the Champions League on Wednesday has got him excited. . . . more . . .
Lyon well armed for Roma clash: Houllier (Feb 20, 2007)
Gerard Houllier reckons the European experience accumulated by Lyon in recent seasons will serve them well against AS Roma in Wednesday's Champions League last 16 first leg tie. . . . more . . .
US soccer boss eyes bid for 2018 World Cup: report (Feb 20, 2007)
US Soccer Federation president Sunil Gulati told US media that his group is preparing a bid for the 2018 World Cup and positioning US cities to be ready as a backup for the 2014 edition. . . . more . . .
Watford welcome back Foster (Feb 20, 2007)
Premiership basement club Watford will have England goalkeeper Ben Foster available for selection in their home league match against Wigan at Vicarage Road on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Wembley warm-up event delayed (Feb 20, 2007)
Wembley officials are confident the 2007 FA Cup Final will be played at the rebuilt 800 million pound stadium even though a planned event for local residents at the north London ground has now been delayed by two weeks. . . . more . . .
Bellamy included in Liverpool squad (Feb 20, 2007)
Craig Bellamy -- reportedly involved in an altercation with teammate John Arne Riise -- has been included in the Liverpool squad for their Champions League match at Barcelona on Wednesday night. . . . more . . .
Porto striker fires Chelsea warning shot (Feb 20, 2007)
FC Porto dangerman Lisandro Lopez is determined to enhance his growing reputation at Chelsea's expense on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Nigeria demands explanation over Vogts' assistant (Feb 20, 2007)
Nigeria Football Association (NFA) officials have asked new coach Berti Vogts to explain his appointment of former Germany international Thomas Hassler as his assistant. . . . more . . .
Bolton sign Spanish defender Martin (Feb 20, 2007)
English Premiership side Bolton have signed Spanish defender Cesar Martin until the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Man Utd lined up for Macau friendly (Feb 20, 2007)
English Premiership leaders Manchester United are being eyed to play a friendly in the southern Chinese city of Macau. . . . more . . .
Larsson to leave Man Utd as planned (Feb 20, 2007)
Swedish striker Henrik Larsson has ruled out any extension to his loan period at Manchester United and has insisted he will return home next month as planned. . . . more . . .
Media see Bayern challenge as Capello's last stand (Feb 20, 2007)
Real Madrid may have dismissed reports that coach Fabio Capello offered to resign, but the Madrid media have prophesied that that the Champions League match with Bayern Munich will be his swansong. . . . more . . .
Ferguson blames TV companies for disrupting Champions League plans (Feb 20, 2007)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has hit out at television companies for sabotaging his preparations for the crucial Champions League last 16 first leg trip to Lille. . . . more . . .
Crisis summit for old foes Real and Bayern (Feb 20, 2007)
A Champions League encounter between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich would in years gone by have been an encounter between two smooth running outfits looking to conquer Europe as a logical extension of domestic domination. . . . more . . .
Wenger hoping to lead Arsenal to Champions League glory (Feb 20, 2007)
Arsene Wenger is determined to ensure the nagging sense of unfinished business that surrounds Arsenal in the Champions League is erased this season. . . . more . . .
Draw no disaster against Milan, says Celtic boss (Feb 20, 2007)
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan admits he would settle for a draw at home to "world-class" AC Milan in their Champions League last 16 first leg clash. . . . more . . .
Bayern can bounce back, says Makaay (Feb 19, 2007)
Bayern Munich striker Roy Makaay believes that the four-time European champions can put the bad times behind them in their Champions League last 16 match against Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
United determined to make up for past disappointments (Feb 19, 2007)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson admitted that his team's past failures in the Champions League is driving their glory quest this season. . . . more . . .
We have to take our chances, says Lille's Puel (Feb 19, 2007)
Lille coach Claude Puel admitted that his team must be clinical in taking their chances if they are to spring a shock against English Premiership giants Manchester United. . . . more . . .
