Archive soccer news from around the world
Kranjcar grateful for Wigan win ahead of Cup semi-final (Mar 31, 2008)
Croatian international Niko Kranjcar believes Portsmouth's win over Premier League rivals Wigan last weekend was the ideal tonic as the south coast club prepare for Saturday's FA Cup semi-final against West Bromwich Albion at Wembley. . . . more . . .
Monaco's slide continues as Rennes get late late winner (Mar 31, 2008)
Monaco's alarming winless run continued on Monday as Rennes scored a goal in injury-time to record a 2-1 win here and inflict the fourth successive defeat on the 2004 Champions League finalists. . . . more . . .
Premiership clubs eclipse those in Spain (Mar 31, 2008)
Spanish clubs have fallen behind English clubs in recent years, said players who ply their trade in Spain and other football personalities. . . . more . . .
Ancelotti dreaming of coaching Roma (Mar 31, 2008)
AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted on Monday that he wants to take over the reins of Serie A rivals AS Roma. . . . more . . .
Porto accused of match-fixing by Portuguese league (Mar 31, 2008)
FC Porto have been formerly accused of match-fixing by the Portuguese league (LPFP), the former European Champions League winners said on Monday, with relegation to the second division and a heavy fine at stake. . . . more . . .
Stuttgart to lease stadium name for 30 years to Mercedes (Mar 31, 2008)
Bundesliga champions VfB Stuttgart have leased their stadium name for 30 years to Mercedes Benz, the German car manufacturer confirmed on Monday. . . . more . . .
Police out in force for Roma-Man United (Mar 31, 2008)
There will be a formidable police presence at the Champions League quarter-final, first leg match between AS Roma and Manchester United in Rome on Tuesday with 1,400 officers on duty. . . . more . . .
Nakamura still has faith in Celtic title hopes (Mar 31, 2008)
Celtic midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura believes the Parkhead club can still retain their Scottish Premier League title if they beat arch-rivals Rangers in this season's two remaining Old Firm clashes. . . . more . . .
UEFA drop Celtic probe (Mar 31, 2008)
European football governing body UEFA confirmed Monday they have dropped their investigation into alleged sectarian chanting by Celtic supporters in Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Totti aiming for Man Utd second leg (Mar 31, 2008)
AS Roma talisman Francesco Totti is hoping to be fit for his team's Champions League quarter-final, second leg against Manchester United at Old Trafford, his personal trainer said Monday. . . . more . . .
Malaysia may lift travel ban for Chelsea's Israeli pair (Mar 31, 2008)
Malaysia on Monday hinted it may lift a travel ban on Israelis to allow Chelsea coach Avram Grant and midfielder Tal Ben Haim to come here on a mini-Asian tour by the English Premier League title contenders. . . . more . . .
Milan desperation weighing heavily on Ancelotti (Mar 31, 2008)
With just seven matches left in the Serie A season, AC Milan are starting to panic. . . . more . . .
Merseyside derby win is perfect Euro tonic, says Benitez (Mar 31, 2008)
Rafa Benitez claimed Liverpool secured the perfect confidence-booster ahead of Wednesday's Champions League clash against Arsenal by sending Merseyside neighbours Everton to a 1-0 defeat at Anfield on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Beckham hopes for better days after Galaxy routed (Mar 30, 2008)
English star David Beckham can only hope his first full season in Major League Soccer is not filled with more nights like his opener for the Los Angeles Galaxy. . . . more . . .
Lyon on title track as PSG suffer Cup hangover (Mar 30, 2008)
Lyon eased closer to a seventh successive French title with a 2-1 win at Valenciennes on Sunday but Paris Saint Germain's League Cup party woke up with a thumping relegation headache. . . . more . . .
Cottbus out of bottom three as Bayern stay top (Mar 30, 2008)
Energie Cottbus striker Ervin Skela struck twice on Sunday to lift his side off the bottom of the Bundesliga and out of the relegation zone as leaders Bayern Munich remain seven points clear. . . . more . . .
Real punish Barca slip to surge clear (Mar 30, 2008)
Real Madrid came out of their recent slump to defeat Sevilla 3-1 on Sunday and stretch their lead at the top of the Spanish first division to six points. . . . more . . .
Torres gives Liverpool Champions League edge over Everton (Mar 30, 2008)
Fernando Torres put Liverpool in pole position to claim fourth spot in the Premiership and a place in next season's Champions League by scoring the only goal in the 207th Merseyside derby against Everton to seal a 1-0 win at Anfield on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Carvalho keeps Chelsea hot on United's heels with win over Middlesbrough (Mar 30, 2008)
Ricardo Carvalho kept Chelsea hot on Manchester United's heels as his first goal of the season clinched a 1-0 win over Middlesbrough on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Tragedy mars Italian football programme again (Mar 30, 2008)
Italian football suffered another tragic blow on Sunday as a Parma fan died after being run over by a bus on a weekend that saw AC Milan's Champions League hopes take another costly dent. . . . more . . .
Juve-Parma clash called off after fan death (Mar 30, 2008)
Juventus's Serie A clash at home to Parma on Sunday has been called off following the death of a visiting female fan at a service station. . . . more . . .
Roma's Totti out of Manchester United clash (Mar 30, 2008)
AS Roma suffered a crucial blow to their Champions League hopes as captain and talisman Francesco Totti was on Sunday ruled out of Tuesday's clash against Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Reds chief wants speedy end to ownership row (Mar 30, 2008)
Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry on Sunday called on the club's American co-owners to find a speedy solution to their row. . . . more . . .
Hitzfeld laments Bayern's bad day at the office (Mar 30, 2008)
A bad day at the office was how Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld summed up his side's lacklustre performance in their 1-1 draw at relegation-threatened Nuremberg on Saturday. . . . more . . .
We're not safe yet, warns Keegan (Mar 30, 2008)
Kevin Keegan insists Premier League safety hasn't yet been secured despite watching rampant Newcastle United dismantle Tottenham Hotspur 4-1. . . . more . . .
Carragher tells Reds to keep cool in derby heat (Mar 30, 2008)
Jamie Carragher believes that Liverpool can only thrive in the Merseyside derby with Everton if they keep their composure. . . . more . . .
I'll do it my way, says Grant ahead of Middlesbrough clash (Mar 30, 2008)
Avram Grant insists he is determined to bring the Premier League title back to Chelsea on his own terms. . . . more . . .
Footballer Cooke the star as Rapids down Beckham's Galaxy (Mar 30, 2008)
All eyes were on David Beckham as he launched his first full Major League Soccer season with the Los Angeles Galaxy Saturday, but Colorado's English import Terry Cooke stole the show. . . . more . . .
Ferguson backs Rooney to deliver title (Mar 30, 2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Wayne Rooney's double against Aston Villa could trigger a scoring run that will deliver Manchester United the Premier League title. . . . more . . .
Title is not ours yet, says Walter Smith (Mar 30, 2008)
Walter Smith insists Rangers are still a long way off winning the Scottish Premier League despite their victory over bitter rivals Celtic on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Arsenal fightback keeps Wenger's title hopes alive (Mar 30, 2008)
Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal are still in the hunt for the Premier League title after their stunning recovery to win 3-2 at Bolton. . . . more . . .
Injury-time penalty gives PSG French League Cup (Mar 29, 2008)
A penalty in the third minute of injury time by Bernard Mendy earned Paris Saint Germain a 2-1 victory over Lens in the final of the French League Cup on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Rijkaard embarrassed by Barca collapse (Mar 29, 2008)
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard said he was embarrassed by his team's woeful second half showing in Saturday's 3-2 defeat by Real Betis that could have ended their title hopes. . . . more . . .
Unstoppable Ronaldo keeps United on a roll (Mar 29, 2008)
Cristiano Ronaldo continued his outstanding campaign with a goal and three assists as Manchester United cruised to victory over Aston Villa to open up a six-point gap at the head of the Premier League. . . . more . . .
Same again as Inter and Roma draw (Mar 29, 2008)
Lazio did cross-city rivals AS Roma a favour by holding leaders Inter Milan to a 1-1 draw at the capital's Stadio Olimpico on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Cavenaghi double moves Bordeaux closer to Champions League (Mar 29, 2008)
Argentinian striker Fernando Cavenaghi scored twice as Bordeaux battled back from a goal down to beat nine-man Nancy 2-1 in the French championship on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Supersub Podolski strikes to save Bayern (Mar 29, 2008)
Supersub Lukas Podolski capped a memorable week on Saturday by saving Bayern Munich with a late equaliser at strugglers Nuremberg on a crazy day in the Bundesliga where none of the top five sides won. . . . more . . .
Reading edge towards safety (Mar 29, 2008)
Reading edged closer to Premier League survival with a goalless draw at home to Blackburn, who failed to take advantage of Marek Matejovsky's sending off with 20 minutes left. . . . more . . .
Arsenal's stirring fightback keeps title hopes alive (Mar 29, 2008)
Arsenal's title challenge is still alive after the 10-man Gunners completed a stunning comeback to win 3-2 at Bolton on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Last-minute Reid boosts Sunderland's safety hopes (Mar 29, 2008)
Andy Reid scored in the fifth minute of injury time to give Sunderland a 2-1 win over West Ham on Saturday as Roy Keane's side took another step closer to Premier League safety. . . . more . . .
Defoe double keeps Wigan on the brink (Mar 29, 2008)
Jermain Defoe made it eight goals in seven games as Portsmouth beat Wigan 2-0 to leave Steve Bruce's side hovering nervously above the relegation zone. . . . more . . .
Zarate boosts Birmingham's survival battle (Mar 29, 2008)
Mauro Zarate eased Birmingham's relegation fears as the Argentine striker's double clinched a crucial 3-1 win over Manchester City on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Villa double not enough to save Rams from the drop (Mar 29, 2008)
A double from Emmanuel Villa was not enough to save Derby County's desperate Premiership season as their 2-2 draw with fellow strugglers Fulham saw them relegated on Saturday with six matches still to go. . . . more . . .
Ranieri still focused on second spot (Mar 29, 2008)
Juventus coach Claudio Ranieri insisted Saturday that his team were still aiming at snatching second place in Serie A ahead of Sunday's visit of struggling Parma. . . . more . . .
Altintop aims for Euro 2008 return (Mar 29, 2008)
Turkey midfielder Hamit Altintop, who had surgery on a broken foot last Thursday, is aiming to be fit in time for June's Euro 2008, he told the Bayern Munich website on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Werder Bremen target Pizarro (Mar 29, 2008)
Bundesliga club Werder Bremen are interested in signing their former Peruvian international striker Claudio Pizarro from Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Ancelotti insists he's staying at AC Milan (Mar 29, 2008)
Carlo Ancelotti insisted on Saturday that he would not be leaving the AC Milan hotseat, even to take over as Italy coach. . . . more . . .
Derby triumph leaves Rangers on brink of title (Mar 29, 2008)
Kevin Thomson's first goal for Rangers was enough to earn a 1-0 win over Celtic that leaves the Ibrox giants on the brink of reclaiming the Scottish Premier League title from their arch rivals. . . . more . . .
Mourinho denies holding talks with Inter (Mar 29, 2008)
Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho vehemently denied on Saturday he had held talks with Serie A leaders Inter Milan about taking over next season from Roberto Mancini as had been widely reported. . . . more . . .
Capello showing his inexperience: Venables (Mar 29, 2008)
Former England boss Terry Venables believes that Fabio Capello is showing his international inexperience by his decision to rotate captains. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo eyeing Law's Man Utd record (Mar 29, 2008)
Cristiano Ronaldo will continue his quest to beat Denis Law's Manchester United scoring record as Sir Alex Ferguson's side attempt to move one step closer to the English Premier League title when Aston Villa visit Old Trafford on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Arsenal' s character facing Bolton test (Mar 29, 2008)
Arsene Wenger has always regarded visits to Bolton Wanderers as events to endure rather than enjoy but the Arsenal manager cannot afford to be sniffy as he prepares for Saturday's latest trip to the Reebok Stadium. . . . more . . .
Mourinho in talks with Inter - reports (Mar 28, 2008)
Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho was locked in talks with Inter Milan on Friday with the colourful coach tipped to take charge at the Italian giants next season, it was reported by Portuguese media. . . . more . . .
Chelsea in a strop over TV fixture change (Mar 28, 2008)
Chelsea have reacted angrily to having a potentially crucial Premier League match at Everton in mid-April brought forward by two days to suit television, claiming the move could hand Manchester United or Arsenal the title. . . . more . . .
Wenger keeps faith in stuttering Gunners (Mar 28, 2008)
Arsene Wenger takes his Arsenal squad to Bolton on Saturday insisting that they can emerge from their worst run in nine seasons to reclaim the Premier League title. . . . more . . .
Reds must keep focus in face of boardroom turmoil: Benitez (Mar 28, 2008)
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has insisted he will not be distracted by the boardroom turmoil engulfing the club as he prepares for a run of four matches that could make or break his season. . . . more . . .
Romario finally hangs up his boots (Mar 28, 2008)
Former Brazilian international striker Romario announced Friday that he will retire this weekend when his contract with Vasco de Gama expires. . . . more . . .
Liverpool in crisis as owners reach breaking point (Mar 28, 2008)
Liverpool have been plunged into a new boardroom crisis after George Gillett confirmed that his relationship with fellow co-owner Tom Hicks had broken down against a backdrop of death threats from disgruntled fans. . . . more . . .
Football: 2010 Champions League final set for Madrid (Mar 28, 2008)
The final of the 2010 Champions League will be played in Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu stadium, the club announced on Friday. . . . more . . .
Mascherano admits improper conduct charge (Mar 28, 2008)
Javier Mascherano has admitted a charge of improper conduct related to his sending-off against Manchester United last weekend but will seek to avoid a three-match ban by making a personal appearance at a Football Association disciplinary hearing. . . . more . . .
Cahill out for rest of the season (Mar 28, 2008)
Everton's worst fears over the injury suffered by Tim Cahill have been realised with manager David Moyes confirming on Friday that the Australian midfielder will miss the rest of the season with a broken metatarsal bone. . . . more . . .
Chelsea to make China debut in July (Mar 28, 2008)
Chelsea are to play their first ever match in China in Guangzhou in July, the English Premier League club announced on Friday. . . . more . . .
Fletcher injury leaves Fergie raging (Mar 28, 2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson has launched a scathing criticism of international friendly fixtures after losing his midfielder Darren Fletcher for six crucial weeks of the season. . . . more . . .
UEFA concerned over Euro 2012, Platini says (Mar 28, 2008)
European governing body UEFA are concerned about the state of preparations for Euro 2012 which is to be jointly held by Ukraine and Poland, the organisation's chief Michel Platini has said. . . . more . . .
Schuster set for extended stay at Real Madrid (Mar 28, 2008)
Real Madrid's German coach Bernd Schuster said Friday in a newspaper interview that he will stay on at the Spanish giants even it the team fails to defend its league title this season. . . . more . . .
Benfica seeking Man Utd's Queiroz as new coach (Mar 28, 2008)
Portuguese giants Benfica are courting Alex Ferguson's assistant at Manchester United, Carlos Queiroz, to become their new coach, the Portuguese press reported on Friday. . . . more . . .
Kewell cleared to play, fights for Liverpool football career (Mar 28, 2008)
Injury-plagued Australian star Harry Kewell has been told he does not require surgery for a groin injury and he will return to England to fight for his career at Liverpool, reports said Friday. . . . more . . .
Verbeek seeks Viduka's football World Cup commitment (Mar 28, 2008)
Mark Viduka remains in Australia's qualification plans for the 2010 World Cup and national coach Pim Verbeek said Friday he intends to talk to him next month. . . . more . . .
England football stars plead for time for Capello (Mar 28, 2008)
England's high-profile players have called for supporters and critics to be patient as new manager Fabio Capello picks over the evidence of a defeat against France in his second match in charge. . . . more . . .
Fed-up Podolski refuses to rule out Bayern exit (Mar 27, 2008)
German international striker Lukas Podolski, frustrated by his lack of first team opportunities, has refused to rule out leaving Bayern Munich in the summer. . . . more . . .
Metz deducted point over Ouaddou racism abuse (Mar 27, 2008)
First division strugglers Metz were on Thursday deducted one point by the French league disciplinary commission after a fan racially abused Valenciennes' Moroccan international defender Abdeslam Ouaddou in a league game last month. . . . more . . .
US to host Argentina before World Cup qualifying (Mar 27, 2008)
Top-ranked Argentina will play the United States in a football friendly June 8 at Giants Stadium near New York in what will be the final tuneup for both before World Cup 2010 qualifying matches. . . . more . . .
Germany's Metzelder set for quick return (Mar 27, 2008)
Germany defender Christoph Metzelder hopes to be back on the football pitch within two weeks - less than two months after his foot operation - and insists he is on course for June's Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
Pato delighted with Brazil goal-scoring debut (Mar 27, 2008)
Teenage star Pato said Thursday he was delighted with his Brazil debut, where he scored the winner in a 1-0 success over Sweden in London on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Latin Americans follow Beckham to MLS but hoopla quiets (Mar 27, 2008)
David Beckham begins his first full Major League Soccer campaign Saturday when the US league kicks off its 13th season with some talented Latin American newcomers but without Beckham-mania. . . . more . . .
Mascherano deadline extended (Mar 27, 2008)
Javier Mascherano has had the deadline for his response to a Football Association charge of improper conduct extended 24 hours until 1800GMT Friday, the governing body has announced. . . . more . . .
Pires staying on at Villarreal (Mar 27, 2008)
Veteran French international Robert Pires has agreed to a one-year extension to his contract with Spanish first division side Villarreal, the club announced on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Israel ban throws Chelsea's Asian tour into doubt (Mar 27, 2008)
Premier League giants Chelsea announced a mini-Asian tour on Thursday but said they may have to cancel the Malaysian leg if their Israeli coach Avram Grant is not allowed into the country. . . . more . . .
Scotland's new football manager says commitment key to continuing team's revival (Mar 27, 2008)
George Burley believes the commitment Scotland showed in the 1-1 draw at home to Croatia on Wednesday can take them all the way to the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa. . . . more . . .
Schwarzer the hero as Aussies draw with China at football World Cup qualifier (Mar 27, 2008)
Mark Schwarzer was acclaimed here Thursday as Australia's hero for his late penalty save to earn the Socceroos a gritty point in a scoreless World Cup qualifier draw with China. . . . more . . .
Football: Alarm bells for Japan's World Cup campaign (Mar 27, 2008)
Japan's World Cup qualifying campaign had an alarming wake-up call as they bowed 1-0 away to Bahrain in timidly defensive football for their first defeat under homegrown coach Takeshi Okada. . . . more . . .
Kewell in another football injury setback (Mar 27, 2008)
Harry Kewell has returned home for treatment after another setback to his injury-plagued career forced him out of Australia's gritty scoreless World Cup qualifying draw with China in Kunming. The 29-year-old Liverpool midfielder was a last-minute withdrawal from the Socceroos' team on Wednesday with a groin injury, and he decided to return to Sydney where he had a series of operations last year. . . . more . . .
Hail the Centurion! Beckham will not settle for 100 caps (Mar 27, 2008)
David Beckham celebrated reaching a century of England caps by insisting that he can keep his international career running all the way to the next World Cup in South Africa. . . . more . . .
Schwarzer the football hero as Aussies defy odds, pundits say (Mar 27, 2008)
Mark Schwarzer was acclaimed here Thursday as Australia's hero for his late penalty save to earn the Socceroos a gritty point in a scoreless World Cup qualifier draw with China. . . . more . . .
Styles in Ghana football team's firing line after friendly defeat (Mar 27, 2008)
Ghana coach Claude Leroy blamed English referee Rob Styles for his side's defeat in their friendly international against Mexico here at Fulham's Craven Cottage ground on Wednesday - but he acknowledged his side had paid for not taking their chances. . . . more . . .
England stars plead for time for Capello (Mar 27, 2008)
England's high-profile players have called for supporters and critics to be patient as new manager Fabio Capello picks over the evidence of a defeat against France in his second match in charge. . . . more . . .
Pato can emulate Ronaldo says Brazil football coach Dunga (Mar 27, 2008)
Brazil coach Dunga believes Alexandre Pato can emulate Ronaldo after the teenage prodigy marked his international debut with a sublime winner against Sweden. . . . more . . .
China keep football World Cup hopes despite Australia draw (Mar 27, 2008)
China remained hopeful Thursday of qualifying for the World Cup 2010 despite drawing 0-0 with powerhouses Australia and missing a golden chance to beat the Socceros. . . . more . . .
Spain upset world champions Italy (Mar 26, 2008)
David Villa scored a stunning left-foot volley to give perennial under-achievers Spain a morale-boosting 1-0 victory over Spain here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Burley begins Scotland reign with Croatia draw (Mar 26, 2008)
Scotland secured a morale-boosting 1-1 draw at home to Euro 2008 qualifiers Croatia here on Wednesday to hand new manager George Burley a promising start in his first game in charge. . . . more . . .
Bahrain shock Japan in crunch Asian qualifier (Mar 26, 2008)
Bahrain scored an upset 1-0 win over Asian giants Japan in a World Cup qualifier here on Wednesday, while China held Australia and the two Koreas also fought to a goalless draw. . . . more . . .
Pato marks his debut with a moment of magic (Mar 26, 2008)
Alexandre Pato showed why he is regarded as Brazil's next superstar as the teenager marked his international debut with a sublime strike to earn a 1-0 win over Sweden on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Hit-man Gomez strikes twice to blitz the Swiss (Mar 26, 2008)
Striker Mario Gomez proved he is the man to partner 2006 Golden Boot-winner Miroslav Klose for June's Euro 2008 campaign with two goals in Germany's 4-0 friendly win over Switzerland on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Beckham completes century but England beaten (Mar 26, 2008)
David Beckham was granted his 100th cap, saw just over an hour of action and departed to a generous ovation from all sections of the Stade de France. . . . more . . .
Bayern stars set to sleep on job under Klinsmann (Mar 26, 2008)
Bayern Munich's superstars Franck Ribery and Luca Toni can expect to sleep on the job next season as new coach Jurgen Klinsmann introduces radical changes - including beds in the team room. . . . more . . .
Benni breaks record as South Africa outclass Paraguay (Mar 26, 2008)
Benni McCarthy created a record and South Africa equalled one as they outclassed Paraguay 3-0 in a lively international friendly Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Beckham to start French friendly (Mar 26, 2008)
Former England captain David Beckham will start the friendly against France at the Stade de France later on Wednesday and become the fifth Englishman to win 100 caps. . . . more . . .
Cagliari penalty overturned on appeal (Mar 26, 2008)
Serie A strugglers Cagliari are off the bottom of the table after the Italian federal court of justice overturned a three-point penalty imposed on the Sardinians. . . . more . . .
Mascherano charged with improper conduct (Mar 26, 2008)
Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano was charged on Wednesday with improper conduct following his reaction to being sent off against Manchester United on Sunday, the Football Association announced. . . . more . . .
Oh man! First-minute madness costs Thailand (Mar 26, 2008)
Thailand were beaten 1-0 at home by Oman in a massive blow to their World Cup qualifying hopes on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Koreas fight to stalemate in Cold War clash (Mar 26, 2008)
South Korea were frustrated by stubborn North Korean defending on Wednesday as their much-anticipated World Cup qualifying showdown ended in a goalless stalemate. . . . more . . .
Germany striker Hanke handed two-match ban (Mar 26, 2008)
Germany striker Mike Hanke has been banned for two matches after his dismissal after only five minutes against Duisburg last weekend. . . . more . . .
Honours even in crunch Asian fixtures (Mar 26, 2008)
China held Australia and the two Koreas also fought to a goalless draw as Asian World Cup qualifying stepped up a gear on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Beating Croatia not vital for new Scotland boss (Mar 26, 2008)
New Scotland manager George Burley insists the performance rather than the result will be the priority at home to Croatia on Wednesday after a series of late call-offs disrupted his plans. . . . more . . .
Beckham ready to play reduced role as he approaches his century (Mar 26, 2008)
David Beckham will be firmly in the spotlight if he wins his 100th cap for England in Wednesday's friendly against France, but he is willing to retreat into the shadows if it helps Fabio Capello mount a serious challenge for the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Egypt and Argentina top African friendly bill (Mar 26, 2008)
African champions Egypt host mighty Argentina Wednesday in the pick of a friendly programme designed to prepare teams for 2010 World Cup qualifiers. . . . more . . .
'Rock bottom' South Africa tackle formidable Paraguay (Mar 26, 2008)
Seldom has a friendly international meant so much to 2010 World Cup hosts South Africa as that against Paraguay on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Donadoni contract distracting Italy ahead of Spain clash (Mar 26, 2008)
World champions Italy tackle Spain in a friendly in Elche on Wednesday with the issue of coach Roberto Donadoni's contract dominating the headlines. . . . more . . .
China rue penalty miss against Australia (Mar 26, 2008)
Shao Jiayi had a late penalty saved as China drew 0-0 with Australia despite a furious second-half onslaught in Asian World Cup qualifying here on Wednesday, Goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer dived low and to his left in the 87th minute to block Shao's shot as Australia escaped with a point to remain top of Group 1, the region's so-called "Group of Death." . . . more . . .
Ibanez condemns weekend beating of Atletico fan (Mar 25, 2008)
Atletico Madrid defender Pablo Ibanez condemned Tuesday the beating of a club supporter by Sevilla fans before the two side's weekend match in an incident caught on tape and shown on television. . . . more . . .
Dunga warns Brazil stars to prove their worth (Mar 25, 2008)
Brazil coach Dunga has warned Ronaldinho and Kaka that superstar status doesn't guarantee their place in the national team. . . . more . . .
Ex-coach Osim tells Japan to sharpen up (Mar 25, 2008)
Former Japan coach Ivica Osim, fresh out of hospital after a serious stroke that cost him his job, called on Tuesday on the former Asian champions to sharpen up. . . . more . . .
Sweden without star Ibrahimovic for Brazil friendly (Mar 25, 2008)
A lingering knee injury will leave Sweden without its star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic when the squad meets Brazil for a football friendly in London on Wednesday, the Swedish Football Association said. . . . more . . .
Super Mario looking to blitz the Swiss (Mar 25, 2008)
Less training has meant more goals for striker Mario Gomez and Germany's player of 2007 is looking to torment Switzerland in Wednesday night's pre-Euro 2008 friendly in Basel. . . . more . . .
Brazilian Marcelinho questioned after nightclub attack (Mar 25, 2008)
Brazilian international Marcelinho is under investigation by German police and faces a possible grievous bodily harm charge following a late-night attack in a Berlin nightclub. . . . more . . .
Only seven wins will do for Arsenal says Gilberto (Mar 25, 2008)
Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva admits his side need to win their last seven matches to have any chance of snatching the Premier League title. . . . more . . .
Benitez wants to see referees' chief after Mascherano red (Mar 25, 2008)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez wants to meet with Premier League referees boss Keith Hackett following the controversial sending-off of Javier Mascherano at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Ferguson wary of Chelsea threat (Mar 25, 2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Chelsea hold the key to the outcome of this season's Premier League title race. . . . more . . .
Terry snubbed as Ferdinand gets captain's armband (Mar 25, 2008)
Fabio Capello has appointed Rio Ferdinand as England's captain for Wednesday's friendly with France in Paris, overlooking both John Terry's claims for a return to the role and the Manchester United defender's history of having been banned for missing a doping test. . . . more . . .
Podolski hoping for the Schumi-factor at Euro 2008 (Mar 25, 2008)
On the first floor of his villa, 30 kilometres from Munich, Germany and Bayern Munich striker Lukas Podolski has set up an office where his most treasured sports memorabilia are kept. . . . more . . .
No crisis at Real Madrid: Robben (Mar 24, 2008)
Dutch international Arjen Robben on Monday denied suggestions of a crisis at Real Madrid after the Spanish side lost its second straight league match over the weekend. . . . more . . .
Mascherano 'can't believe' red card (Mar 24, 2008)
Javier Mascherano insisted on Monday he still had no idea why he'd been sent-off in Liverpool's 3-0 defeat away to champions Manchester United. . . . more . . .
James admits England stars have to show more respect (Mar 24, 2008)
England goalkeeper David James admitted his international teammates have a responsibility to act as role models for the next generation of homegrown stars. . . . more . . .
Anelka's international career reaches watershed (Mar 24, 2008)
The international career of France's Nicolas Anelka reaches a watershed on Wednesday with another friendly match against England almost a decade after he scored twice at Wembley in a previous friendly. . . . more . . .
Vieira joins Henry on sidelines for England clash (Mar 24, 2008)
France captain Patrick Vieira was ruled out on Monday from Wednesday's friendly with England at the Stade de France. . . . more . . .
Beckham wants more than 100 England caps (Mar 24, 2008)
David Beckham said he would be honoured to win his 100th cap for England in Wednesday's friendly away to France, if selected by manager Fabio Capello, but stressed he didn't want the milestone to mark the end of his international career. . . . more . . .
Scotland squad hit by injury crisis (Mar 24, 2008)
Goalkeeper Allan McGregor has joined Rangers team-mates Barry Ferguson, Lee McCulloch and Christian Dailly in withdrawing from the Scotland squad for Wednesday's friendly against Croatia. . . . more . . .
Guidolin fired by Palermo for the fourth time (Mar 24, 2008)
Francesco's Guidolin's fourth spell in charge of Palermo came to an end on Monday when once again he got the sack from club president Maurizio Zamparini. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo and Nani out of Greek friendly (Mar 24, 2008)
Manchester United's Portuguese stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani were ruled out on Monday of Wednesday's friendly with European champions Greece it was announced by the Portuguese Football Federation's doctor. . . . more . . .
Henry out of England friendly (Mar 24, 2008)
World Cup winning striker Thierry Henry was ruled out on Monday of France's friendly with England at the Stade de France on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
England out in force for training session (Mar 24, 2008)
Fears of fresh withdrawals from the England squad were allayed Monday when all 23 players selected by manager Fabio Capello arrived at London Colney for a training session ahead of the friendly international away to France. . . . more . . .
Trezeguet replaces Benzema in French squad (Mar 24, 2008)
Juventus striker David Trezeguet has been called into the French squad for the friendlies against England and Mali on Tuesday and Wednesday replacing the injured Karim Benzema. . . . more . . .
Scotland squad hit by fresh injuries (Mar 24, 2008)
Goalkeeper Allan McGregor has joined Rangers team-mates Barry Ferguson, Lee McCulloch and Christian Dailly in withdrawing from the Scotland squad for Wednesday's friendly against Croatia. . . . more . . .
Celtic striker McDonald joins Australia's injured list (Mar 24, 2008)
Australia have lost prolific striker Scott McDonald ahead of Wednesday's World Cup qualifier against China in Kunming. . . . more . . .
Koreas' Cold War World Cup clash comes to China (Mar 24, 2008)
North and South Korea square off for their much-anticipated World Cup qualifying clash on neutral ground on Wednesday after a row over flags and anthems forced a shift from Pyongyang. . . . more . . .
Wenger gets defensive over Arsenal's fading soccer title challenge (Mar 24, 2008)
Arsene Wenger fears Arsenal's defensive shortcomings have ruined his side's Premier League title challenge. . . . more . . .
Ferguson happy after Liverpool 'morale booster' (Mar 24, 2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson acclaimed a 3-0 victory over Liverpool as an ideal "morale booster" after his Manchester United side strengthened their bid for a second successive Premier League title with a resounding victory here at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Welcome extra-time goal lifts Honduras past US (Mar 23, 2008)
Georgie Wilson Welcome scored in the 103rd minute to give Honduras a 1-0 victory over the United States here Sunday in the final of the CONCACAF Olympic qualifying tournament. . . . more . . .
Lyon nine points clear after beating PSG (Mar 23, 2008)
Late goals from Sidney Govou and Juninho helped notch up a 4-2 victory for French league leaders Lyon at home to Paris Saint Germain on Sunday night to propel them nine points clear at the top of the table. . . . more . . .
Unknowns are hat-trick heroes in African Champions League (Mar 23, 2008)
International unknowns Edward Sadomba, Fankele Traore and Stephen Worgu scored hat-tricks Sunday as the goals flowed in the African Champions League. . . . more . . .
Bayern deserve Bundesliga title, says Voeller (Mar 23, 2008)
Bayer Leverkusen boss Rudi Voeller admitted Bayern Munich deserve to be crowned German champions after his side were beaten 2-1 by the league leaders at the Allianz Arena. . . . more . . .
Valencia rock Real to reignite title race (Mar 23, 2008)
Cup finalists Valencia blew the title race wide open with Angel Arizmendi's late goal sealing a sensational 3-2 win over champions Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Drogba keeps Chelsea's title hopes alive (Mar 23, 2008)
Didier Drogba kept alive Chelsea's Premier League title challenge as his double strike clinched a 2-1 win against Arsenal on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Celtic's McDonald ends drought in Gretna rout (Mar 23, 2008)
Australia international Scott McDonald scored his first goal in six games as Celtic overpowered Gretna 3-0 on Sunday to cut Rangers's lead at the top of the Scottish Premier League to just three points ahead of next weekend's Old Firm encounter at Ibrox. . . . more . . .
United stay top after downing 10-man Liverpool (Mar 23, 2008)
Manchester United strengthened their English Premier League lead with a 3-0 win at Old Trafford over arch-rivals Liverpool, who had to play more than half the game with 10 men. . . . more . . .
Time to protect refs, says Chelsea's Terry (Mar 23, 2008)
Chelsea captain John Terry has backed plans to curb dissent against referees even if it requires changing the rules of the game Terry, who also skippers England, said he was in favour of a rule change which would only allow team captains to speak to officials over contentious decisions on the pitch. . . . more . . .
Bayern star Ribery flattered by Zidane comparisons (Mar 23, 2008)
Bayern Munich's French midfielder Franck Ribery admitted on Sunday he is flattered by comparisons to Zinedine Zidane, but wants to match his compatriot's achievements to be worthy of such praise. . . . more . . .
African champions Etoile Sahel crush Senegal's AS Douane (Mar 23, 2008)
Etoile Sahel of Tunisia demonstrated why they are the best football club on the continent by overwhelming Senegal visitors AS Douanes 5-0 in the African Champions League this weekend. . . . more . . .
S Africa coach tells politicians to stop interfering (Mar 23, 2008)
Beleaguered South Africa football coach Carlos Alberto Parreira has told politicians to stop interfering in his attempts to turn round the on-field fortunes of the 2010 World Cup hosts. . . . more . . .
Consistency key for Wenger as Arsenal face title crunch (Mar 23, 2008)
Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal's consistency will prove decisive as their Premier League title challenge enters a defining period. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo told to rock Liverpool's world (Mar 23, 2008)
Cristiano Ronaldo "has the world in front of him" according to Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and the veteran boss wants the Portugal winger to maintain his "fantastic" form against arch-rivals Liverpool on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Desire to win driving weary Rangers (Mar 23, 2008)
Walter Smith admits Rangers' bid to win four trophies this season is causing fatigue amongst his players - but the manager believes they have the determination to battle on to glory. . . . more . . .
Moyes eager for derby clash despite Hammer blow (Mar 23, 2008)
Everton manager David Moyes looked forward to the Merseyside derby with Liverpool by insisting his team was still well positioned to secure a fourth-placed Premier League finish this season. . . . more . . .