Archive soccer news from around the world
Drogba gets revenge on Benitez to set up United showdown (Apr 30, 2008)
Didier Drogba sent Chelsea to their first Champions League final and got revenge on Rafa Benitez as his double strike clinched a 3-2 win against Liverpool in Wednesday's semi-final second leg. . . . more . . .
PSG to appeal expulsion from French League Cup (Apr 30, 2008)
Paris Saint Germain will not be allowed to defend their title in next year's French League Cup after a controversial banner was displayed during last month's final, the Professional Football League (LFP) ruled on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Grieving Lampard back for Chelsea (Apr 30, 2008)
Frank Lampard returned to the Chelsea team for their Champions League semi-final second leg against Liverpool after mourning the death of his mother. . . . more . . .
Fiorentina coach Prandelli hoping for a magic night (Apr 30, 2008)
Fiorentina coach Cesare Prandelli said he was hoping for a bit of magic on Thursday when his Serie A side host Rangers in the UEFA Cup semi-final, second leg. . . . more . . .
Bayern have nothing to fear insists Ribery (Apr 30, 2008)
French midfielder Franck Ribery insists Bayern Munich have nothing to fear when they tackle Zenit St Petersburg in Thursday night's UEFA Cup semif-final, second leg in Russia. . . . more . . .
Israel club wins league clincher reprieve (Apr 30, 2008)
Israeli football club Beitar Jerusalem, infamous for its ultra-nationalist fans, won a reprieve on Wednesday from a crucial league match forfeit this month just four minutes from time. . . . more . . .
Sagnol disciplined for slamming Bayern (Apr 30, 2008)
French defender Willy Sagnol was not on the plane to St Petersburg on Wednesday for the UEFA Cup semi-final, second-leg, after being disciplined by Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld. . . . more . . .
Croatian coach Bilic to prolong his contract (Apr 30, 2008)
Croatia football coach Slaven Bilic is to prolong his contract for another two years, the country's football association (HNS) said Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Fans will need visas for Moscow final: foreign ministry (Apr 30, 2008)
The thousands of English fans travelling to Moscow for the Champions League final on May 21 will need an entry visa the Russian Foreign Ministry said Wednesday, contradicting an earlier statement by the city's mayor, Yury Luzhkov. . . . more . . .
Rooney set for West Ham return (Apr 30, 2008)
Wayne Rooney is set to return to action for Manchester United against West Ham at Old Trafford here Saturday according to manager Sir Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .
Thaksin's son says Eriksson to lead Man City to Thailand (Apr 30, 2008)
Sven-Goran Eriksson's fate at Manchester City may be unclear but the Swede will lead the English Premier League side on their Asian tour in mid-May, the son of club owner Thaksin Shinawatra said Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Rijkaard nudges Chelsea as Barca axe looms (Apr 30, 2008)
Frank Rijkaard insists that he has no plans to quit Barcelona but that did not stop him highlighting his credentials as a purveyor of the beautiful game to potential employers that include Chelsea's Roman Abramovich. . . . more . . .
Russia lifts visa barrier for Champions League fans (Apr 30, 2008)
Thousands of English football fans travelling to Moscow for the Champions League final on May 21 will be able to enter the country without a visa, Moscow mayor Yury Lyzhkov said on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Lucio rules out a Bayern Munich departure (Apr 30, 2008)
Bayern Munich's Brazilian defender Lucio on Wednesday ruled out any chance of a summer switch to Barcelona and says he is happy to stay in Bavaria. . . . more . . .
Scholes fires Man Utd into Champions League final (Apr 30, 2008)
Paul Scholes has scored dozens of crucial goals for Manchester United over the years but none of them has been quite as precious as the sublime strike that sent Sir Alex Ferguson's squad into the Champions League final. . . . more . . .
Brazil books soccer friendlies with Canada, Venezuela on US soil (Apr 30, 2008)
Five time World Cup champion Brazil announced Tuesday that it will play two football friendlies on US soil later this year. . . . more . . .
Liverpool's Torres ready for Chelsea clash (Apr 30, 2008)
Fernando Torres has been living a dream in the Champions League this season but the Liverpool striker wants one more fairytale in his side's semi-final second leg against Chelsea on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Scholes launches United march on Moscow (Apr 29, 2008)
A superb long-range strike from Paul Scholes sent Manchester United into the first all-English final of the Champions League after a nerve-tingling 1-0 win over Barcelona here on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo, Andreia, Andre and the 30,000 dollar bribe (Apr 29, 2008)
Ronaldo had the shock of his life on Monday night when he discovered three prostitutes he'd picked up were in fact transvestites with one allegedly trying to bribe him out of 30,000 dollars for keeping mum about the incident. . . . more . . .
Werder call truce with Klasnic (Apr 29, 2008)
Werder Bremen and their striker Ivan Klasnic called a truce Tuesday following an emergency meeting after the Croatia international launched a 1.5 million euros (2.3 million US dollars) lawsuit over the mishandling of his kidney complaint. . . . more . . .
Cech ready to end Champions League misery (Apr 29, 2008)
Petr Cech insists Chelsea are ready to finally end their Champions League misery against Liverpool in Wednesday's decisive semi-final second leg. . . . more . . .
Benitez unrepentant over Drogba accusation (Apr 29, 2008)
Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez stoked up the row over Didier Drogba's theatrics after refusing to retract his claims that the Chelsea striker is a diver. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho too expensive for us, says Moratti (Apr 29, 2008)
Ronaldinho is too expensive even for Italian champions Inter Milan, their president Massimo Moratti said on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Rangers' defender Weir out of Fiorentina match (Apr 29, 2008)
Rangers defender David Weir has been ruled out by manager Walter Smith of Thursday's UEFA Cup semi-final second leg away to Fiorentina. . . . more . . .
Donadoni hands Del Piero Euro 2008 boost (Apr 29, 2008)
Italy coach Roberto Donadoni said in an interview published in La Repubblica on Tuesday that as things stand he will take Alessandro Del Piero to Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
Angry Daei threatens to quit Iran job (Apr 29, 2008)
Iran's coach Ali Daei launched a furious tirade against his football federation on Tuesday, threatening to quit and revealing he is still waiting for a contract to sign. . . . more . . .
FIFA president 'wants Spain to bid' for 2018 World Cup (Apr 29, 2008)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter hopes Spain will bid for the 2018 World Cup, possibly jointly with neighbouring Portugal, Spain's sports press quoted him as saying on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Bayern Munich chasing Bundesliga records (Apr 29, 2008)
With a 12-point lead, Bayern Munich have virtually won this season's Bundesliga title, but are still chasing records for the largest winning margin and the lowest number of goals conceded in a league season. . . . more . . .
Eriksson clinging on at Manchester City (Apr 29, 2008)
Sven-Goran Eriksson is determined to stay on as manager of Manchester City, his agent has said, despite indications that he could be facing the sack. . . . more . . .
Giggs expects Man Utd to kill off Barcelona (Apr 29, 2008)
Ryan Giggs expects Manchester United to use the bitter memory of their title slip at Chelsea to kill off Barcelona in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final second-leg. . . . more . . .
Russia cools passion for foreign football affairs (Apr 29, 2008)
The Russian Football Union (RFU) and the country's Premier league are losing their passion for foreign players in an effort to stimulate home-grown talent. . . . more . . .
Rijkaard ready to make United pay penalty (Apr 28, 2008)
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard shrugged off mounting speculation about his future Monday as he said his side had prepared for a penalty shoot-out ahead of their Champions League semi-final second leg clash against Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Adebayor nets three as Gunners thrash Derby (Apr 28, 2008)
Emmanuel Adebayor came off the bench to score a hat-trick as Arsenal thrashed already-relegated Premier League basement side Derby County 6-2 at Pride Park here Monday. . . . more . . .
Rijkaard ready to make United pay penalty (Apr 28, 2008)
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard shrugged off mounting speculation about his future Monday as he said his side had prepared for a penalty shoot-out ahead of their Champions League semi-final second leg clash against Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Ranieri lauds Del Piero contribution (Apr 28, 2008)
Juventus coach Claudio Ranieri heaped praise on evergreen forward Alessandro Del Piero a day after the Italian giants secured their place in next season's Champions League. . . . more . . .
Loew anxious over fitness of Schneider and Metzelder (Apr 28, 2008)
German national coach Joachim Loew admitted on Monday that he would be prepared to extend his preliminary squad for Euro 2008 to more than the obligatory 23 so as to give veterans Bernd Schneider and Christoph Metzelder time to prove their fitness. . . . more . . .
Hasek snubs Czech Republic job (Apr 28, 2008)
Al Ahly coach and former Czech Republic international Ivan Hasek on Monday pulled no punches in rejecting the job of national team coach when Karel Bruckner stands down after Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
Recovered Simak signs for Stuttgart (Apr 28, 2008)
Czech midfielder Jan Simak, whose career was on the rocks a few years ago as he battled alcohol addiction and depression, on Monday signed for 2007 Bundesliga champions VfB Stuttgart. . . . more . . .
Row between Russian tycoons hits London courts (Apr 28, 2008)
Boris Berezovsky says he was intimidated into selling shares in some of Russia's biggest companies, a court ruling on his claim against fellow Russian tycoon Roman Abramovich heard Monday. . . . more . . .
Giggs backs United youth to come good against Barca (Apr 28, 2008)
Ryan Giggs believes Sir Alex Ferguson's trust in youth will be the key to Manchester United's bid to defeat Barcelona and claim a place in the Champions League final. . . . more . . .
Capello doesn't have much choice, says Lippi (Apr 28, 2008)
Italy World Cup winning coach Marcelo Lippi sympathised with England manager Fabio Capello on Monday, claiming he doesn't have enough good players to choose from. . . . more . . .
Ferguson insists United still up to double task (Apr 28, 2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson has delivered a defiant response to suggestions his Manchester United side are faltering in their bid to complete a Premier League and Champions League double. . . . more . . .
Milan derby 'bigger' than Champions League final: Moratti (Apr 28, 2008)
Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti claimed on Monday that Sunday's Milan derby will be bigger than the Champions League final. . . . more . . .
Spain's forgotten about me, says Rangers hero Cuellar (Apr 28, 2008)
Carlos Cuellar was the toast of Scottish football two weeks ago when the Rangers midfielder was named the SPL Player of the Year but no one still seems to know his name in his native Spain. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Lampard back in training (Apr 28, 2008)
Frank Lampard is set for a return to action for Chelsea in Wednesday's Champions League semi-final, return leg game away to Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Barca coach Rijkaard finally admits Ronaldinho's going (Apr 28, 2008)
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard finally admitted that he expects his Brazilian superstar striker Ronaldinho to leave at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo tops PFA poll in England (Apr 28, 2008)
Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo has been voted as England's Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Player of the Year for the second straight year. . . . more . . .
Man Utd players blame Chelsea staff for brawl (Apr 28, 2008)
Manchester United players have claimed that Chelsea ground staff were reponsible for provoking the row that marred the end of the Premier League showdown between the two teams on Saturday by insulting Patrice Evra. . . . more . . .
Malaysia stands by Chelsea tour decision: report (Apr 28, 2008)
Malaysia is standing by its decision to allow the Israeli coach and player from English Premier League side Chelsea into the country, a report said Monday, despite planned protests by Muslims. . . . more . . .
Australia's Kewell to play in Ghana football friendly (Apr 28, 2008)
Liverpool's Harry Kewell said Monday he will play in next month's football friendly against Ghana here in preparation for Australia's block of vital World Cup qualifiers in June. . . . more . . .
Ancelotti hails evergreen Inzaghi at AC Milan (Apr 28, 2008)
AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti hailed the continuing impact of veteran forward Filippo Inzaghi as the reigning European champions closed in on fourth place in Serie A. . . . more . . .
Beckham lauds Donovan hat trick in Galaxy romp (Apr 27, 2008)
David Beckham can see progress in his Los Angeles Galaxy teammates and the English midfielder has contributed some kicks of his own in the team's climb up the Major League Soccer standings. . . . more . . .
Cisse keeps Marseille Champions League dream alive (Apr 27, 2008)
An opportunist goal from Djibril Cisse on Sunday preserved Marseille's chances of grabbing a slice of Champions League action next season as the former Liverpool man struck to seal a 3-2 victory at Monaco. . . . more . . .
Maringwa the hero as Dynamos upset African champions (Apr 27, 2008)
Veteran Desmond Maringwa scored the winner as Dynamos of Zimbabwe upset title holders Etoile Sahel of Tunisia 1-0 in the African Champions League on Sunday. . . . more . . .
LeBron, West power Cavaliers to brink of advancing (Apr 27, 2008)
LeBron James scored 34 points and Delonte West added 21, including the game-winning basket with 5.4 seconds remaining Sunday to give Cleveland a 100-97 NBA playoff victory over Washington. . . . more . . .
Carew caps Villa's late show to frustrate Everton (Apr 27, 2008)
John Carew kept Aston Villa in the hunt for a UEFA Cup spot with a late header in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Everton at Goodison Park on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Real crush Bilbao but must wait for title (Apr 27, 2008)
Real Madrid were unable to clinch a 31st Spanish title on Sunday but their 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao means they can retain their crown with victory at Osasuna next weekend. . . . more . . .
Ribery dazzles for Bayern as Hitzfeld admits title is won (Apr 27, 2008)
Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld admitted the league title race is over after Franck Ribery struck twice to seal a 4-1 win over VfB Stuttgart to put his side 12 points clear at the top of the table. . . . more . . .
Four-star Roma keep title race alive (Apr 27, 2008)
AS Roma kept the Serie A title race alive for another week at least with a four-goal destruction of sorry Torino at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday as Italy's top flight went goal crazy. . . . more . . .
Santa Cruz leaves Portsmouth's top five bid in tatters (Apr 27, 2008)
Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz shattered Portsmouth's bid for a top five finish as his second half goal sealed a 1-0 win at Fratton Park on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Celtic Old Firm victory keeps title race alive (Apr 27, 2008)
Celtic blasted the Scottish Premier League race wide open with a thrilling 3-2 victory over fierce city rivals Rangers on Sunday. . . . more . . .
DIC deny Mourinho talks (Apr 27, 2008)
Dubai International Capital, the investment company trying to buy Liverpool, have assured the Premier League club's fans that they have no intention of offering Jose Mourinho the manager's job if they do take over at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Eriksson set for Thaksin time (Apr 27, 2008)
Thaksin Shinawatra insists he is at Manchester City for the long-term, but the former Thai Prime Minster is still to reveal whether Sven Goran Eriksson will be staying beyond the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Benitez wary of Drogba threatrics (Apr 27, 2008)
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez said Sunday he would be calling on officials to keep a close eye on Didier Drogba's theatrics in their midweek Champions League semi-final second leg at Chelsea. . . . more . . .
FA examine Stamford Bridge bust up (Apr 27, 2008)
The Football Association (FA) confirmed Sunday they will be examining TV footage of the post-match bust-up between Manchester United players and Chelsea staff. . . . more . . .
Real boss would jump at chance to sign Ronaldo (Apr 27, 2008)
Real Madrid would jump at the chance to sign Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo, the Spanish club's president Ramon Calderon said on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Legalise football betting in Malaysia, says top coach (Apr 27, 2008)
Malaysia should legalise football betting to stamp out match-fixing, a top coach said Sunday, after police launched a graft probe into five of the 13 teams in the Malaysian Super League. . . . more . . .
Legalise football betting in Malaysia, says top coach (Apr 27, 2008)
Malaysia should legalise football betting to stamp out match-fixing, a top coach said Sunday after police launched a graft probe into five of the 13 teams in the Malaysian Super League. . . . more . . .
Muslim group urges Malaysians to boycott Chelsea football tour (Apr 27, 2008)
Muslim leaders on Sunday urged Malaysians to boycott a visit by English football giants Chelsea in protest at the move to let their Israeli coach and defender into the country. . . . more . . .
Inter primed for Serie A celebration (Apr 27, 2008)
Inter Milan could wrap up their third straight title on Sunday if they win at home to lowly Caglairi and stuttering AS Roma lose at home to Torino. . . . more . . .
Messi and co rested as Barca focus on Champions League (Apr 27, 2008)
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard took no risks ahead of Tuesday's massive Champions League semi-final with Manchester United, resting most of his stars in a 2-0 defeat at Deportivo La Coruna that all but gifts the title to Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Bolton gain precious point at Spurs (Apr 27, 2008)
Gary Megson expects to see Bolton Wanderers move within sight of Premier League safety next week following Saturday's 1-1 draw against Tottenham at White Hart Lane. . . . more . . .
Ferguson stokes angry United's sense of injustice (Apr 27, 2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced Manchester United's sense of injustice at their 2-1 defeat against Chelsea will help carry them to the Premier League title. . . . more . . .
Benitez confident of upsetting Chelsea (Apr 27, 2008)
Rafael Benitez believes Liverpool's chances of defeating Chelsea and making it to the Champions League final have been increased now that the pressure is off over qualifying for next season's competition. . . . more . . .
Hodgson dares to dream as Sven fears Thaksin axe (Apr 27, 2008)
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson admits he has started to dream of an incredible escape from relegation after a remarkable 3-2 comeback win at Manchester City which will only have added to Thaksin Shinawatra's apparent unhappiness with Sven-Goran Eriksson. . . . more . . .
Real ready for title as defeated Barca switch priorities (Apr 26, 2008)
A makeshift Barcelona team fell to a 2-0 loss at Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday meaning Real Madrid now have the chance to win the title on Sunday if results go their way. . . . more . . .
Ahly see Stars as South African minnows triumph (Apr 26, 2008)
Edward Williams scored in stoppage time to give minnows Platinum Stars of South Africa a shock 2-1 win over mighty Al-Ahly of Egypt in the African Champions League on Saturday. . . . more . . .
PSG win to allay drop fears; Lyon coronation on hold (Apr 26, 2008)
Paris St Germain bolstered their chances of avoiding relegation from the French top flight on Saturday with a 3-1 win over Auxerre courtesy of goals from Pedro Pauleta and a brace from Amara Diane while fellow strugglers Lens went down 3-2 at Le Mans. . . . more . . .
Bayern's Hitzfeld relishing Stuttgart showdown (Apr 26, 2008)
Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld says his side are relishing the chance to put one hand on the Bundesliga title if they beat defending champions VfB Stuttgart on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Late own-goal ensures Black Cats' Premier League survival (Apr 26, 2008)
A last-gasp own-goal from Emanuel Pogatetz gave Sunderland a 3-2 win over Middlesbrough and ensured Roy Keane's side will be playing Premier League football again next season. . . . more . . .
Unlikely point keeps Bolton afloat (Apr 26, 2008)
Bolton remain one point clear of the relegation zone after claiming an unlikely 1-1 draw at Tottenham on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Newcastle extend winning run to seven matches (Apr 26, 2008)
Newcastle will go into their May 5 clash with title-chasing Chelsea on the back of a seven-game unbeaten run after rallying to claim a point in a 2-2 draw with West Ham at Upton Park on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Fulham raise hopes of great escape with fightback (Apr 26, 2008)
Fulham not only put off relegation with a stunning 3-2 victory here on Saturday but also left themselves with a chance of surviving thanks to three goals in the final 20 minutes against Manchester City. . . . more . . .
Liverpool fightback leaves Birmingham in drop zone (Apr 26, 2008)
Jermaine Pennant pushed his claims for a role in Liverpool's Champions League showdown with Chelsea on Wednesday night by inspiring a wonderful second-half fight back as Liverpool forced Birmingham City to settle for a 2-2 draw. . . . more . . .
Spalletti lowers sights (Apr 26, 2008)
AS Roma coach Luciano Spalletti admitted on Saturday that his primary aim for the season is to secure second place rather than wresting the title from Inter Milan's iron-like grasp. . . . more . . .
Bore draw keeps Wigan and Reading in relegation mix (Apr 26, 2008)
Wigan and Reading fought out a predictably tense and dour match here on Saturday in a 0-0 draw that kept both sides embroiled in the relegation battle. . . . more . . .
Werder Bremen striker takes legal action against doctors (Apr 26, 2008)
Croatian striker Ivan Klasnic has launched a 1.5 million euros (2.3 million US dollars) lawsuit against two Bremen doctors for "gross mishandling" of his kidney complaint which led to a transplant. . . . more . . .
Football: Klasnic takes legal action against Bremen doctors (Apr 26, 2008)
Croatian striker Ivan Klasnic has launched a 1.5 million euros (2.3 million US dollars) lawsuit against two Bremen doctors for "gross mishandling" of his kidney complaint which led to a transplant. . . . more . . .
Ballack double keeps Chelsea in title race (Apr 26, 2008)
Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack breathed new life into the Premier League title race as his late penalty clinched a dramatic 2-1 win over Manchester United on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Ballack double keeps Chelsea title fight alive (Apr 26, 2008)
Michael Ballack kept Chelsea's hopes of reclaiming the English Premier League title alive with both goals in a 2-1 win over Manchester United here on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo needs a trophy to be 'the best', insists Mourinho (Apr 26, 2008)
Cristiano Ronaldo is the "best player in the Premier League" but needs to win a trophy in order to be crowned player of the year, fellow Portuguese Jose Mourinho said Saturday. . . . more . . .
Fergie rests United stars for Chelsea clash (Apr 26, 2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson rested a host of stars including Cristiano Ronaldo for Manchester United's crucial title showdown against Chelsea on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Renault chief Briatore in talks with Real Madrid over QPR (Apr 26, 2008)
Renault team chief Flavio Briatore and his fellow-director of English soccer club Queens Park Rangers, Bernie Ecclestone, the ring-master of Formula One, held two hours of talks with Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon late Friday. . . . more . . .
Tottenham win race to sign Croatian Modric (Apr 26, 2008)
Dinamo Zagreb's Croatia midfield star Luka Modric is heading for Tottenham next season after agreeing a five-year-old deal with the Premier League side, both clubs confirmed on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Tottenham win race to sign Croatian Modric (Apr 26, 2008)
Croatia midfield star Luka Modric is heading for Tottenham next season after agreeing a deal with the Premier League side, the club confirmed on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Cech plans to make United sweat for the title (Apr 26, 2008)
Manchester United are within touching distance of the Premier League title but Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech is relishing the chance to make the leaders sweat on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo vows to end the title race at Chelsea (Apr 26, 2008)
Cristiano Ronaldo has warned Chelsea that Manchester United are determined to end the Premier League title race by winning their decisive showdown on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Players call off strike at struggling Levante (Apr 25, 2008)
Players at struggling Spanish first division side Levante have called off their threat to strike during Sunday's match at Recreativo Huelva after the cash-strapped club found a way to pay debts to the squad. . . . more . . .
Toure ready to step into Gallas role (Apr 25, 2008)
Kolo Toure admitted Friday that he would love the chance to take over from defensive partner William Gallas as Arsenal captain next season. . . . more . . .
We can win Euro 2008 says Germany's Frings (Apr 25, 2008)
Germany midfielder Torsten Frings insists his side are capable of winning Euro 2008 in June to be crowned European champions for the fourth time. . . . more . . .
French Canaries fly back to top flight perch (Apr 25, 2008)
Nantes on Friday won promotion back to the French top flight a season after their shock relegation with a 1-1 draw at home to Montpellier while rivals Troyes could only draw 2-2 with Boulogne. . . . more . . .
S.Africa striker McCarthy agrees new Rovers deal (Apr 25, 2008)
South Africa international striker Benni McCarthy has agreed a new three-year contract with Blackburn, Rovers manager Mark Hughes confirmed on Friday. . . . more . . .
Lack of rest no problem says Ferguson (Apr 25, 2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Manchester United will be well prepared for their title decider with Chelsea here Saturday despite his side having had less rest than their rivals. . . . more . . .
Grant gives Lampard time to decide over Man Utd clash (Apr 25, 2008)
Chelsea manager Avram Grant will let Frank Lampard leave it until the last minute to decide if he wants to play in Saturday's Premier League title showdown against Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Bayern stars fall but boss Hitzfeld confident (Apr 25, 2008)
Bayern Munich are without striker Miroslav Klose and defender Philipp Lahm for Sunday's clash with defending champions VfB Stuttgart, while captain Oliver Kahn is a major injury worry. . . . more . . .
Celtic's Nakamura fighting fit for Rangers (Apr 25, 2008)
Celtic midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura insisted on Friday he will be fit to face Scottish Premier League rivals Rangers this weekend. . . . more . . .
Bayern stars fall, but Hitzfeld is confident (Apr 25, 2008)
Bayern Munich are without striker Miroslav Klose and defender Philipp Lahm for Sunday's clash with defending champions VfB Stuttgart, while captain Oliver Kahn is a major injury worry. . . . more . . .
Bayern stars fall, but Hitzfeld is confident (Apr 25, 2008)
Bayern Munich are without striker Miroslav Klose and defender Philipp Lahm for Sunday's clash with defending champions VfB Stuttgart, while captain Oliver Kahn is a major injury worry. . . . more . . .
McCarthy agrees new Rovers deal (Apr 25, 2008)
South Africa international striker Benni McCarthy has agreed a new three-year contract with Blackburn, Rovers manager Mark Hughes confirmed on Friday. . . . more . . .
Arsenal are in my heart, insists Henry (Apr 25, 2008)
Barcelona striker Thierry Henry insisted Friday that he has no regrets about his move to Spain but that his former club Arsenal hold a special place in his heart. . . . more . . .
Man City strengthen Thailand soccer ties (Apr 25, 2008)
Manchester City will play in Bangkok next month, a report said Friday, as the club strengthened its ties with Thailand by appointing a former Thai coach to help develop academies in Asia. . . . more . . .
Rangers 'favourites' for UEFA final says Fiorentina boss (Apr 25, 2008)
Fiorentina coach Cesare Prandelli believes Rangers are now favourites to reach the UEFA Cup Final despite the Glasgow side's failure to score at home in a goalless semi-final first-leg tie here at Ibrox Stadium. . . . more . . .
Toni could be the decisive factor in UEFA semi-final says Bayern's Hitzfeld (Apr 25, 2008)
Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld is hoping the return of Italian World Cup winner Luca Toni will be the decisive factor in next week's UEFA Cup semi-final, second-leg tie in St Petersburg. . . . more . . .
Rangers need an Italian job after Ibrox stalemate (Apr 24, 2008)
Rangers will need to carry out a successful Italian job in Florence next week after they failed to score against Fiorentina in a nervy UEFA Cup semi-final, first leg goalless draw here on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Lucio own goal gives Zenit an advantage in Munich (Apr 24, 2008)
Bayern Munich defender Lucio headed into his own net to give Zenit St Petersburg a crucial away goal ahead of next week's return match in Russia after Thursday night's UEFA Cup semi-final, first leg ended in a 1-1 draw. . . . more . . .
Lucio own goal puts Bayern under pressure (Apr 24, 2008)
Bayern Munich defender Lucio headed into his own net to give Zenit St Petersburg a crucial away goal ahead of next week's return match in Russia after Thursday night's UEFA Cup semi-final, first leg ended in 1-1 draw. . . . more . . .
Players still set to strike at struggling Levante (Apr 24, 2008)
Players at struggling Spanish first division side Levante said on Thursday that they will carry out their threat and go on strike over unpaid wages and bonuses at Recreativo Huelva on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Ferguson counting on home run to Moscow (Apr 24, 2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson has warned Barcelona to brace themselves for an Old Trafford backlash when the two sides resume battle next week. . . . more . . .
Koeman senior named Hungary's coach (Apr 24, 2008)
Erwin Koeman of the Netherlands was on Thursday named as Peter Varhidi's successor as manager of the Hungary national team. . . . more . . .
Benitez tells Liverpool owners to end their feud (Apr 24, 2008)
Rafa Benitez has called on Liverpool's feuding owners to resolve their differences so he can plan for the future. . . . more . . .
Cardiff given green light to play in UEFA Cup (Apr 24, 2008)
Cardiff City will be allowed to enter the UEFA Cup if they win next month's FA Cup final. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo happy to keep penalty responsibility (Apr 24, 2008)
Cristiano Ronaldo insists he will have no qualms about taking another penalty for Manchester United despite his spot-kick misery against Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy rejoins teammates after ankle surgery (Apr 24, 2008)
Real Madrid's Dutch international striker Ruud van Nistelrooy returned to training with the rest of his teammates on Thursday for the first time since undergoing surgery on his injured right ankle last month. . . . more . . .
Liverpool's Aurelio likely to miss rest of season (Apr 24, 2008)
Liverpool defender Fabio Aurelio is likely to miss the rest of the season after the Brazilian was ruled out for at least three weeks with a torn abductor muscle. . . . more . . .
Lahm set for another season at Bayern says Beckenbauer (Apr 24, 2008)
Germany defender Philipp Lahm will stay with Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich for at least one more season, Bayern president Franz Beckenbauer said on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Riise reveals own goal agony (Apr 24, 2008)
Liverpool defender John Arne Riise has revealed his misery at the own goal which threatens to derail his side's Champions League challenge. . . . more . . .
Toure committed to helping end Arsenal's trophy drought (Apr 24, 2008)
Kolo Toure wants to stay at Arsenal for the rest of his career and help the Gunners end their trophy drought. . . . more . . .
Schwarzer eyes Bundesliga move (Apr 24, 2008)
Australia goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer admits he would love to finish his career in Germany after reports linked the Middlesbrough star with a move to Bayern Munich. . . . more . . .
Riise reveals own goal agony (Apr 24, 2008)
Liverpool defender John Arne Riise has revealed his misery at the own goal which threatens to derail his side's Champions League challenge. . . . more . . .
Toure committed to help end Arsenal's trophy drought (Apr 24, 2008)
Kolo Toure wants to stay at Arsenal for the rest of his career and help the Gunners end their trophy drought. . . . more . . .
Rangers' Weir plays down fixture pile-up worries (Apr 24, 2008)
Rangers defender David Weir has insisted the Glasgow club will be able to cope with their impending fixture pile-up as they chase the three trophies they need for what would be an extraordinary 'quadruple'. . . . more . . .
United hold Barcelona to goalless Champions League football draw (Apr 24, 2008)
A rare failure of nerve by Cristiano Ronaldo cost Manchester United the chance of a famous victory but Sir Alex Ferguson's side still emerged as favourites to reach the Champions League final after a goalless draw with Barcelona in their semi-final first leg clash here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo comes out on top in trial of talent with Messi (Apr 23, 2008)
It didn't quite turn into the mesmerising display of skills between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi that everyone had anticipated but pundits gave the verdict to the United player. . . . more . . .
United hold on but count cost of Ronaldo penalty miss (Apr 23, 2008)
A rare failure of nerve by Cristiano Ronaldo cost Manchester United the chance of a famous victory but Sir Alex Ferguson's side still emerged as favourites to reach the Champions League final after a goalless draw with Barcelona in their semi-final first leg clash here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Hashemian set for return to Bochum (Apr 23, 2008)
Iranian international striker Vahid Hashemian is to return to Bundesliga side VfL Bochum after signing from rivals Hanover on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
United defender Vidic left out at Barcelona (Apr 23, 2008)
Manchester United's Serbian defender Nemanja Vidic has been left out of Manchester United's team to face Barcelona in their Champions League semi-final, first leg on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Santana takes over as South Africa football coach (Apr 23, 2008)
Brazilian Joel Santana was confirmed Wednesday as the new coach of 2010 World Cup hosts South Africa. . . . more . . .
Euro 2008: Swiss health authorities warn of measles risk (Apr 23, 2008)
Football fans risk being literally as "sick as a parrot" whether their teams win or lose at this summer's Euro 2008 games in Switzerland due to a measles epidemic, health authorities warned Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Rosicky reports knee injury improvement (Apr 23, 2008)
The Czech Republic's injured captain Tomas Rosicky announced Wednesday an improvement to the knee problem which has cast a major doubt over his Euro 2008 participation. . . . more . . .
Bilbao's Gurpegui returns after doping ban (Apr 23, 2008)
Athletic Bilbao's Carlos Gurpegui returns to Spanish league action at Real Madrid on Sunday following a two-year suspension for doping. . . . more . . .
Top African stars for Okocha farewell game (Apr 23, 2008)
Top African stars like Didier Drogba, Seyi Adebayor, Rigobert Song and Michael Essien have agreed to take part in an exhibition game that will mark the retirement of Austin Jay Jay' Okocha from international football. . . . more . . .
Bayern captain Kahn was right to criticise me, says Toni (Apr 23, 2008)
Bayern Munich captain Oliver Kahn was right to criticise Frank Ribery and Luca Toni earlier in the season, the Italian World Cup winner acknowledged on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Euro title up for grabs, says Germany's Loew (Apr 23, 2008)
German coach Joachim Loew has indicated that this summer's European Championships in Switzerland and Austria would be one of the most closely-contested ever with several sides in with a shout of glory. . . . more . . .
Hleb's season over as he accepts charge (Apr 23, 2008)
Arsenal winger Alexander Hleb will miss the rest of the Gunners' season after accepting Wednesday a Football Association (FA) charge of violent conduct. . . . more . . .
Barca want too much for Ronaldinho: Berlusconi (Apr 23, 2008)
AC Milan chairman Silvio Berlusconi complained Wednesday that Barcelona are holding out for too much money for their Brazilian star Ronaldinho, whom the Italians hope to land this summer. . . . more . . .
Will Ronaldo or Messi triumph in Barca v United clash? (Apr 23, 2008)
Manchester United return to Barcelona's Nou Camp stadium on Wednesday, the scene of one of their greatest victories, with the Champions League final again in their sights. . . . more . . .
Former Singapore League players jailed for match-fixing, says report (Apr 23, 2008)
Six footballers from former Singapore league side Liaoning Guangyuan have been sentenced to jail and fined for match-fixing, a newspaper reported Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Tim Cahill vows to be back for Everton pre-season training (Apr 23, 2008)
Everton's goalscoring midfielder Tim Cahill vowed Wednesday to be back for pre-season training after arriving in Sydney to undergo foot surgery. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's hopes boosted after last-minute goal (Apr 23, 2008)
Avram Grant believes Chelsea are in pole position to reach their first Champions League final after his side escaped with a fortunate 1-1 draw in the semi-final first leg against Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Chelsea Riise to the occasion at the death (Apr 22, 2008)
Chelsea snatched a Champions League lifeline as Liverpool defender John Arne Riise's last-gasp own goal allowed Avram Grant's side to escape with a 1-1 draw from Tuesday's semi-final first leg. . . . more . . .
Spain's Euro 2008 hopes increase after government backs down (Apr 22, 2008)
The chances of Spain being expelled from the Euro 2008 championships decreased on Tuesday when it was reported the government-run Spanish Sports Council had backed down on controversial plans to force the Spanish football federation to hold elections before Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
Henry and Messi provide dilemmas for Barca coach Rijkaard (Apr 22, 2008)
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard kept his cards close to his chest about who was going to take