Archive soccer news from around the world
Hanging on to Lampard Scolari's top task (Jun 30, 2008)
Frank Lampard's continued presence at Chelsea this season will be one of the top tasks of Luiz Felipe Scolari when the new Stamford Bridge boss officially starts work at the club on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Chelsea sign Portugal's Deco (Jun 30, 2008)
Portugal midfielder Deco has signed for Chelsea, the English Premiership club said on Monday, for eight million pounds (10.1 million euros). . . . more . . .
Corruption case dropped against FC Porto president (Jun 30, 2008)
Portuguese judicial authorities announced Monday they were dropping the case against FC Porto president Jorge Pinto da Costa, relating to alleged match-fixing of a first division game during the 2003/2004 season. . . . more . . .
Triumphant Spanish team returns to victory parade (Jun 30, 2008)
Hundreds of thousands of ecstatic flag-waving fans cheered Spain's Euro 2008 players as they were feted in a parade in an open-top bus through Madrid to celebrate the country's first major football trophy in 44 years. . . . more . . .
Heroes' welcome for Germany's almost-champions (Jun 30, 2008)
A huge flag-waving crowd gave Germany's not quite all-conquering football team a heroes' welcome in central Berlin on Monday despite their 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final of Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
Toni and Gomez head top of the Euro flops (Jun 30, 2008)
It doesn't say much for the Bundesliga defenders that Luca Toni and Mario Gomez accrued 40 goals between them last season and yet when they got to Euro 2008 their return was - zero. . . . more . . .
We've broken so many hoodoos, says Casillas (Jun 30, 2008)
Spanish goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas basked in the glory on Monday of having won Euro 2008 and reflected on the ghosts Spain laid to rest by winning their first title for 44 years. . . . more . . .
Xavi named player of Euro 2008 (Jun 30, 2008)
Spanish midfielder Xavi was named player of Euro 2008 by UEFA on Monday. . . . more . . .
Spanish fan found dead, 52 held after Euro 2008: police (Jun 30, 2008)
A Spanish football supporter was found dead on Monday in Madrid where 52 others were arrested after a night of revelry to celebrate their team's victory over Germany in the final of Euro 2008, police said. . . . more . . .
Nihat out for up to four months (Jun 30, 2008)
Turkish striker Nihat Kahveci could be out for up to four months after undergoing a successful operation on his right thigh that he injured in Turkey's Euro 2008 quarter-final win over Croatia. . . . more . . .
Japan name Endo in Olympic squad (Jun 30, 2008)
Gamba Osaka midfielder Yasuhito Endo was the only over-age player in Japan's preliminary 20-member Olympic football squad announced on Monday. . . . more . . .
Xavi named player of Euro 2008 (Jun 30, 2008)
Spanish midfielder Xavi was named player of Euro 2008 by UEFA on Monday. . . . more . . .
Spain bask in Euro glory after 44-year wait (Jun 30, 2008)
Spain ended their 44-year wait for a major international title with a 1-0 victory over Germany at the Euro 2008 final here. . . . more . . .
Spain put their "black legend" to bed with Euro win (Jun 30, 2008)
After 44 long years - virtually as long as the trophy drought still afflicting England - Spain finally threw off their chains on Sunday in winning the European Championship, beating Germany with a Fernando Torres strike. . . . more . . .
Spanish PM sets sights on World Cup after Euro 2008 win (Jun 30, 2008)
Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero is dreaming of glory for Spain at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa after his side beat Germany 1-0 to win Euro 2008, its first major title in over 40 years. . . . more . . .
Liverpool's Alonso says Euro win rivals 2005 (Jun 29, 2008)
Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso said Sunday night's Euro 2008 win over Germany was just as good as the Reds dramatic Champions League victory over AC Milan in 2005. . . . more . . .
Hats off to Spain, says Metzelder (Jun 29, 2008)
Real Madrid's German defender Christoph Metzelder praised Spain's Euro 2008 winning-performance which inflicted a 1-0 win over Germany in Vienna on Sunday night as Fernando Torres's first-half strike settled the matter. . . . more . . .
We are in shock, admits Lehmann (Jun 29, 2008)
Veteran German goalkeeper Jens Lehmann admitted his side were in shock after losing Sunday's Euro 2008 final as a first-half strike by Liverpool's Fernando Torres sealed Spain's 1-0 triumph. . . . more . . .
Viva Espana! Spain euphoric at Euro 2008 win (Jun 29, 2008)
Tens of thousands of ecstatic Spanish fans danced and chanted "Viva Espana" in central Madrid late Sunday as the country's first major international football trophy in 44 years sparked a nationwide fiesta. . . . more . . .
Loew gracious in defeat (Jun 29, 2008)
Germany coach Joachim Loew admitted that Spain were the better side after watching his team be beaten 1-0 in the Euro 2008 final here on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Ballack's silverware heartache continues (Jun 29, 2008)
Having lost May's Champions League final with Chelsea, Michael Ballack again suffered silverware heartbreak on Sunday as Germany lost the Euro 2008 final 1-0 to Spain. . . . more . . .
Torres steps out from under Villa's shadow (Jun 29, 2008)
Fernando Torres showed that anything his fellow striker David Villa can do he can do too with the precious goal that gave Spain victory over Germany in Sunday's Euro 2008 final. . . . more . . .
Aragones the mastermind behind Spain's Euro success (Jun 29, 2008)
Luis Aragones's tenure as national coach came to a glorious and deserving conclusion here on Sunday with Spain's success over Germany in the Euro 2008 final. . . . more . . .
Spain end 44-year title drought, beat Germany in Euro 2008 final (Jun 29, 2008)
Spain ended their 44-year wait for a major international title with a 1-0 victory over Germany at the Euro 2008 final here on Sunday. . . . more . . .
German Federation give Klinsmann share of Euro credit (Jun 29, 2008)
Jurgen Klinsmann took his place as a spectator at the final of Euro 2008 here on Sunday in the knowledge that the German Federation credit him with laying the foundations of Die Mannschaft's new rise to prominence. . . . more . . .
Football fans, Darth Vader celebrate Euro 2008 final (Jun 29, 2008)
The Euro 2008 final has arrived at last and the whole world - and universe - came together on Sunday in Vienna to celebrate the culmination of three weeks of football, ahead of Germany v Spain. . . . more . . .
'Red fever' grips Spain for Euro 2008 final (Jun 29, 2008)
Exuberant Spanish football fans massed in front of giant outdoor TV screens, piled into bars or rushed home on Sunday as normal life came to a halt across the country for the Euro 2008 final against Germany. . . . more . . .
Ballack set to start for Germany in Euro final (Jun 29, 2008)
Germany captain Michael Ballack was rated almost certain to start Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Spain despite straining his right calf in training, German media reported from Vienna as the countdown to the match reached fever pitch. . . . more . . .
Loew and Hickersberger ban wasn't justified, says Blatter (Jun 29, 2008)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter says the one-match bans handed to both Germany coach Joachim Loew and Austria's Josef Hickersberger by UEFA during a Euro 2008 group game were unjustified. . . . more . . .
Melancholy end to Germany's Euro 2008 party (Jun 29, 2008)
Germany's three-week-long Euro 2008 party ended with a whimper on Sunday as throngs of colourful supporters headed home forlornly after defeat to Spain, but looking ahead to the 2010 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Toughened-up Spain look to seal Euro deal against the Germans (Jun 29, 2008)
Spain will head into Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Germany here confident that they have overcome the mental fragility that has so often dogged them in the past. . . . more . . .
Germans apply the warpaint for Euro final (Jun 29, 2008)
Germans were unfurling their flags and applying the black, red and gold face-paints on Sunday as three weeks of Euro 2008 football frenzy approached its climax of Germany versus Spain. . . . more . . .
Spain turns red for 'appointment with history' (Jun 29, 2008)
Excited fans gathered in front of giant outdoor television screens, newspapers ran front pages in the team colour of red and shops planned to close early as Spain was gripped by football fever ahead of the Euro 2008 final Sunday. . . . more . . .
Spain turns red for Euro 2008 final (Jun 29, 2008)
Excited fans gathered in front of giant outdoor television screens, newspapers ran front pages in the team colour of red and shops planned to close early as Spain was gripped by football fever ahead of the Euro 2008 final Sunday. . . . more . . .
Football-crazy Germans warm up for Euro final (Jun 29, 2008)
Germans were unfurling their flags and applying the black, red and gold face-paints on Sunday morning as football fever approached its climax for the team's Euro 2008 final against Spain. . . . more . . .
Toughened-up Spain look to seal Euro deal against the Germans (Jun 29, 2008)
Spain will head into Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Germany here confident that they have overcome the mental fragility that has so often dogged them in the past. . . . more . . .
Another final - but still no Mullers on German horizon (Jun 29, 2008)
Once more, Germany are in the final of a European Championship, their sixth. . . . more . . .
Toughened-up Spain look to seal Euro deal against the Germans (Jun 28, 2008)
Spain will head into Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Germany here confident that they have overcome the mental fragility that has so often dogged them in the past. . . . more . . .
Spain's Cesc to start final against Germany: Aragones (Jun 28, 2008)
Spain coach Luis Aragones has hinted that Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas will start during his side's Euro 2008 final against Germany on Sunday night in Vienna. . . . more . . .
On eve of Euro final Aragones criticises Spanish Federation (Jun 28, 2008)
Spain coach Luis Aragones criticised his employers on the eve of Sunday's Euro 2008 final for not sounding him out about a new contract. . . . more . . .
Spain swept by Euro 2008 fever as final nears (Jun 28, 2008)
Spain was swept up in football fever Saturday one day ahead of its national team's Euro 2008 final against Germany in Vienna which fans were confident would lead to its first major title in over 40 years. . . . more . . .
Spain intent on breaking "horrible statistic" says Casillas (Jun 28, 2008)
Captain Iker Casillas says Spain will take to the field against Germany in Sunday's Euro 2008 final with only one objective in mind -- to end their 44-year title famine. . . . more . . .
Loew hopeful injury-victim Ballack is fit for Euro final (Jun 28, 2008)
Germany coach Joachim Loew is hopeful captain Michael Ballack can shake off the calf strain he suffered in training on the eve of Sunday's Euro 2008 final to lead his country against Spain. . . . more . . .
Guiza set to make a Euro diamond out of fiancee if Spain win (Jun 28, 2008)
Spanish striker Dani Guiza will marry his girlfriend if Spain land their first title since 1964 in the Euro 2008 climax against Germany on Sunday, the Real Mallorca marksman told the Spanish press on Saturday. . . . more . . .
'Old Lady' stadium with a Nazi past (Jun 28, 2008)
It may be called rather fetchingly the 'Old Lady' but the stadium for Sunday's Euro 2008 final between Germany and Spain has a dark past - it was formerly a site for Nazi propaganda and racial experiments. . . . more . . .
We'll beat Spain with or without Ballack, says Loew (Jun 28, 2008)
Germany coach Joachim Loew says he expects his side to beat Spain in Sunday night's Euro 2008 final in Vienna with or without their injured captain Michael Ballack. . . . more . . .
Senna, Kuranyi bring Brazilian flavour to Euro (Jun 28, 2008)
No South American has ever picked up a winner's medal in the European Championships - but that will change on Sunday when either Marcos Senna tastes glory with Spain or Germany's Kevin Kuranyi shares in a win for Die Mannschaft. . . . more . . .
Spain's Class of 2008 out to prove its a classic vintage (Jun 28, 2008)
A black political figure later to become president was sentenced to life imprisonment in South Africa, Can't Buy Me Love was number one in Britain, Cassius Clay upset Sonny Liston to win the world heavyweight title, Tokyo staged the 18th Olympic Games and here in Vienna Inter Milan won the Europe Cup. . . . more . . .
General agreement on enlarging Euro to 24 teams (Jun 28, 2008)
The presidents of the 53 football federations in European governing body UEFA indicated Saturday they backed plans for 24 teams at future Euros following an informal meeting chaired by UEFA president Michel Platini in Vienna, a source said. . . . more . . .
Germany to win final - on penalties....again, says 'The Kaiser' (Jun 28, 2008)
Double World Cup-winner Franz Beckenbauer says he expects Germany to win Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Spain in Vienna on penalties - as the Germans have not missed in a shoot-out for 26 years. . . . more . . .
Sweden captain Ljungberg retires from internationals (Jun 27, 2008)
Sweden captain Fredrik Ljungberg has announced his retirement from international football, the country's TT agency reported on Friday. . . . more . . .
Hiddink "amazed" at Russian team's reception in Moscow (Jun 27, 2008)
Russia football coach Guus Hiddink was amazed at the reception his team received here on Friday after returning to the country following the exploits at the Euro 2008 championships in Switzerland and Austria. . . . more . . .
Turkish players in the money after Euro exploits (Jun 27, 2008)
All 23 members of Turkey's Euro 2008 squad are to receive 450,000 euros each, dwarfing the amount which players from finalists Germany and Spain will be paid in bonuses. . . . more . . .
Merkel the football fan going to Vienna for final: government (Jun 27, 2008)
German Chancellor Angela Merkel will be in the stands on Sunday to watch Germany take on Spain in the Euro 2008 final, the government said. . . . more . . .
German plants to run on idle for football final, automakers say (Jun 27, 2008)
German automakers said Friday they would shut down production lines late Sunday so workers could follow the European football championship final between Germany and Spain. . . . more . . .
Spain, minus Villa, in relaxed mood ahead of Euro final (Jun 27, 2008)
In front of hordes of watching cameras Euro 2008 finalists Spain underwent a light training session here on Friday morning just hours after knocking out Russia on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Spanish trauma gives Metzelder final hope (Jun 27, 2008)
Germany's Spanish spy Christoph Metzelder says his side must take advantage of Spain's first appearance in a major final since 1984 when they face the Germans in Sunday's Euro 2008 final. . . . more . . .
Lehmann in top form - Beckenbauer (Jun 27, 2008)
German World Cup-winning player and coach Franz Beckenbauer on Friday insisted veteran keeper Jens Lehmann was in top form, notwithstanding a couple of errors in his team's run to the Euro 2008 final. . . . more . . .
Euro '96 hero Bierhoff says Germans will be fear-free (Jun 27, 2008)
Oliver Bierhoff, whose golden goal won Euro '96, says Germany must approach Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Spain without fear as the Germans bid to win a fourth European title. . . . more . . .
Cazorla sees Euro 2008 final as 50-50 (Jun 27, 2008)
Spain midfielder Santi Cazorla said on Friday he sees Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Germany as too close to call, telling reporters "there's no favourite." . . . more . . .
I'd play me in final if I was Germany coach, says Frings (Jun 27, 2008)
Germany midfielder Torsten Frings insists he would play himself in Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Spain if he was German coach - despite having a fractured rib. . . . more . . .
Lausanne offers table football with a twist (Jun 27, 2008)
The Swiss city of Lausanne, disappointed it would not be hosting a Euro 2008 game, found another way to celebrate the sport -- with artsy, offbeat "interactive" football tables. . . . more . . .
Classy Spain too good as Russia run out of steam in Euro 2008 (Jun 27, 2008)
Spain one of the pre-tournament title favourites ensured they made their first final for 24 years when they demolished Russia 3-0 here on Thursday in their Euro 2008 semi-final. . . . more . . .
I've lost one major final, I don't want to lose another: Cesc (Jun 27, 2008)
Spain's Cesc Fabregas says that he has no intention of letting Sunday's Euro 2008 final against Germany slip through his hands. . . . more . . .
Loew's men on a high as German song remains the same (Jun 27, 2008)
"Tonight we showed our winning mentality," was the simple, yet razor-sharp observation German coach Joachim Loew made after his side somehow cast aside dominating Turks to reach their sixth Euro final. . . . more . . .
'Big boots' one step away from history (Jun 26, 2008)
As a player Luis Aragones earned the nickname 'Zapatones' or big boots and his will certainly be hard to fill when he stands down as Spain coach after his side's exorcising of so many ghosts at Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
Spanish fans go wild at semi-final win (Jun 26, 2008)
The strains of "Que Viva Espana" rang out across central Madrid Thursday as around 10,000 Spanish fans celebrated their team's 3-0 defeat of Russia in Euro 2008, which they watched on giant outdoor screens. . . . more . . .
Spain refuse to fall under 'wizard' Hiddink's spell (Jun 26, 2008)
The South Koreans gave him free international flights for life after the 2002 World Cup, Russia's offered him honorary citizenship for his exploits at Euro 2008 - if Guus Hiddink ever took charge of Saudi Arabia he could end up with his very own oil well. . . . more . . .
Classy Spain too good as Russia run out of steam in Euro 2008 (Jun 26, 2008)
Spain one of the pre-tournament title favourites ensured they made their first final for 24 years when they demolished Russia 3-0 here on Thursday in their Euro 2008 semi-final. . . . more . . .
Spain hoping to continue shedding the burden of history in Euro 2008 (Jun 26, 2008)
Spain are hoping to continue undoing their underachievements of the past as they aim to get past Russia in Thursday's Euro 2008 semi-final. . . . more . . .
Germany beat comeback kings Turkey to reach Euro final (Jun 26, 2008)
Defender Philipp Lahm's late strike put three-times European champions Germany in Sunday's Euro 2008 final and sealed a 3-2 win to knock out injury-ravaged Turkey. . . . more . . .
Cold Turkey as Germany jumps for soccer joy (Jun 26, 2008)
Hope turned to sadness for Germany's huge Turkish minority as their team were denied a place in the finals of the Euro 2008 football championship by none other than their host country. . . . more . . .
Terim set for pastures new (Jun 26, 2008)
Turkey coach Fatih Terim is set to coach a European club side next season he revealed after his side pushed three-time champions Germany to the limit in their Euro 2008 3-2 defeat in the semi-final on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Terim set for pastures new (Jun 25, 2008)
Turkey coach Fatih Terim is set to coach a European club side next season as he revealed after his side had pushed three-time champions Germany to the limit in their Euro 2008 3-2 defeat in the semi-final on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Germany beat comeback kings Turkey to reach Euro final (Jun 25, 2008)
Defender Philipp Lahm's late strike put three-times European champions Germany in Sunday's Euro 2008 final and sealed a 3-2 win to knock out injury-ravaged Turkey on Wednesday night. . . . more . . .
If it's not broken, don't fix it: Aragones (Jun 25, 2008)
Luis Aragones insisted on the eve of Spain's crucial Euro 2008 quarter-final against Russia on Thursday that he has no need to change his winning side. . . . more . . .
Cold Turkey as Germany jumps for joy (Jun 25, 2008)
Hope turned to sadness for Germany's huge Turkish minority on Wednesday as their team were denied a place in the finals of the Euro 2008 football championship by none other than their host country. . . . more . . .
Carzola can be our star says Spain (Jun 25, 2008)
Villarreal forward Santi Cazorla is quickly becoming the revelation of Spain's run into the latter stages of Euro 2008 and the team's players agreed that he is a player who could make the difference. . . . more . . .
Realistic Hiddink revels in Russia's Euro journey (Jun 25, 2008)
Russia coach Guus Hiddink, recalling the hazardous qualification route his team suffered to get to Vienna, insisted he was keeping his feet firmly on the ground ahead of Thursday's Euro 2008 semi-final with Spain. . . . more . . .
Aragones is a big man: Hiddink (Jun 25, 2008)
Russia coach Guus Hiddink paid tribute to his Spanish counterpart Luis Aragones here Wednesday on the eve of their Euro 2008 semi-final. . . . more . . .
Germany vows to nix Turkish delight at Euro semis (Jun 25, 2008)
Germany captain Michael Ballack says his side must use the confidence from their 3-2 quarter-final win over Portugal to knock out comeback kings Turkey on Wednesday in order to reach the Euro 2008 final. . . . more . . .
Arshavin can handle the attention: Hiddink (Jun 25, 2008)
Russia forward Andrei Arshavin is well up to handling all the interest from media and clubs triggered by his starring role in his country's journey to the Euro 2008 semi-finals, coach Guus Hiddink stressed on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Thousands promise to shave heads if Spain wins Euro 2008 (Jun 24, 2008)
Thousands of supporters of the Spanish national team have vowed to shave their heads if their side wins the Euro 2008 football championship. . . . more . . .
I don't believe in miracles, insist Turkey's Terim (Jun 24, 2008)
On the eve of his side's historic Euro 2008 semi-final against Germany, Turkey coach Fatih Terim says he refuses to believe in miracles, despite his side's incredible come-back record. . . . more . . .
Luis and Juan Carlos are buddies (Jun 24, 2008)
If Spanish coach Luis Aragones greeted King Juan Carlos like an old friend following his team's quarter-final shootout success over Italy that's because that's just what they are, reporters Tuesday quoted him as saying. . . . more . . .
Donadoni to be sacked next week: Italian press (Jun 24, 2008)
Italy coach Roberto Donadoni is going to be sacked and replaced by reigning World Cup-winning coach Marcello Lippi, the Italian press reported on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Anti-racism message driven home prior to semis (Jun 24, 2008)
Euro 2008 semi-finalists will read out messages against racism ahead of their matches as part of the Unite Against Racism campaign at the tournament, organisers said Tuesday. . . . more . . .
On the margin but in the headlines - team player Cesc (Jun 24, 2008)
He is regarded as one of the world's most talented playmakers. . . . more . . .
Germany vs. Turkey: Germany's "two" football teams face off (Jun 24, 2008)
Football-crazy Germany is lapping up this month's European Championships but with a three-million Turkish minority, the country, it seems, has two national teams -- who face off on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Turkey's 'mole' spills the beans on Germany's Bayern five (Jun 24, 2008)
Hamit Altintop is using insider information to help Turkey plot Germany's downfall in Wednesday's Euro 2008 semi-final. . . . more . . .
Fenerbahce experience will help German coach Loew (Jun 24, 2008)
Germany coach Joachim Loew says he knows all about the passion and never-say-die spirit of Turkey ahead of Wednesday's Euro 2008 semi-final from his year spent coaching Fenerbahce. . . . more . . .
Hickersberger resigns from Austrian post (Jun 23, 2008)
Josef Hickersberger announced his retirement as Austrian coach in an interview to be published on Tuesday which will appear on the day that the Austrian federation were to decide on his future. . . . more . . .
Defeated Croatian squad get bonus (Jun 23, 2008)
The defeated Croatian squad will be get a 6.25 million-euro (9.7 million-dollar) bonus for reaching the Euro 2008 quarter-finals, the country's football association said Monday. . . . more . . .
UEFA turn down Volkan appeal (Jun 23, 2008)
Turkey's selection problems ahead of Wednesday's Euro 2008 semi-final with Germany deepened on Monday as they lost their appeal against first choice goalkeeper Volkan Demirel's suspension. . . . more . . .
No turning back for Aragones (Jun 23, 2008)
Luis Aragones said on Monday that he would not go back on his decision to retire as Spain coach after Euro 2008 despite having guided them to their first semi-final in 24 years. . . . more . . .
Don't write off injury-hit Turkey, warns Loew (Jun 23, 2008)
Germany coach Joachim Loew says his side can ill-afford to write off injury-hit Turkey ahead of Wednesday's Euro 2008 semi-final when the come-back kings look to claim another scalp. . . . more . . .
Euro 2008 saw 520 arrested, says ministry (Jun 23, 2008)
A total of 520 people have been arrested and 1,500 charges filed in the first two weeks of the Euro, the Austrian interior ministry said on Monday in a positive security assessment of the tournament. . . . more . . .
Referee Rosetti gets Euro 2008 final (Jun 23, 2008)
Italian Roberto Rosetti will take charge of the Euro-2008 final on Sunday, UEFA announced on Monday, becoming the first referee from his country since Pierluigi Collina's retirement in 2005 to referee a major final. . . . more . . .
Italy's Donadoni rules out quitting (Jun 23, 2008)
Defiant Italy boss Roberto Donadoni ruled out quitting the national team despite his country's insipid Euro 2008 exit on penalties to Spain. . . . more . . .
Lehmann ready to put his life on the line against Turks (Jun 23, 2008)
Veteran German goalkeeper Jens Lehmann said on Monday he was prepared to put his life on the line in Wednesday's Euro 2008 semi-final against Turkey. . . . more . . .
Germany's hour of truth is approaching, says Ballack (Jun 23, 2008)
Three-time champions Germany's hour of truth at Euro 2008 is approaching, claimed their captain Michael Ballack on Monday. . . . more . . .
I'm just doing my job, says Spain coach Aragones (Jun 23, 2008)
Coach Luis Aragones, unlike the rest of his fellow countrymen, was keeping his feet firmly on the ground after watching Spain finally confront their demons and defeat Italy to clinch a semi-final spot at Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
Spain defeat Italy on penalties to make Euro semi-finals (Jun 23, 2008)
Spain beat Italy 4-2 on penalties here on Sunday to reach the Euro 2008 semi-finals and in so doing break a number of painful hoodoos. . . . more . . .
Italy president fails to back Donadoni (Jun 22, 2008)
Italy Football Federation (FIGC) president Giancarlo Abete failed to back coach Roberto Donadoni after his team's Euro 2008 quarter-final defeat on penalties against Spain. . . . more . . .
We were lucky, admits Casillas (Jun 22, 2008)
Spain hero Iker Casillas admitted his team had been lucky in progressing to the Euro 2008 semi-finals following their penalty shoot-out victory over world champions Italy. . . . more . . .
Spain defeat Italy on penalties to make Euro semi-finals (Jun 22, 2008)
Spain beat Italy 4-2 on penalties here on Sunday to reach the Euro 2008 semi-finals and in so doing break a number of painful hoodoos. . . . more . . .
Arshavin gets Zidane's stamp of approval (Jun 22, 2008)
Russia's playmaker Andrei Arshavin is set to have a great career France football legend Zinedine Zidane told AFP on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Nihat leaves as Turkey put brave face on player plight (Jun 22, 2008)
Turkey striker Nihat Kahveci has left his team's base in Vienna to return to Spain for treatment on the injured right thigh which has ruled him out of Wednesday's Euro 2008 semi-final with Germany. . . . more . . .
Deschamps would be legitimate successor to Domenech, says Zidane (Jun 22, 2008)
France's World Cup and Euro winning captain Didier Deschamps would be a worthy successor to Raymond Domenech as France coach should the latter either resign or be sacked, claimed French football icon Zinedine Zidane on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Italy's Aquilani gets the nod from Donadoni (Jun 22, 2008)
Young AS Roma midfielder Alberto Aquilani was handed the onerous responsibility of replacing the suspended Andrea Pirlo for Italy's Euro 2008 quarter-final with Spain later on Sunday (kick-off 1845GMT). . . . more . . .
Hard-up Turkey mull putting keeper outfield (Jun 22, 2008)
Turkey are so decimated by injury and suspension ahead of Wednesday's Euro 2008 semi-final against Germany they may resort to playing reserve keeper Tolga Zengin as an outfield player, according to coach Fatih Terim. . . . more . . .
We will not take Turks for granted, says Ballack (Jun 22, 2008)
Three-time champions Germany will not be taking Turkey for granted in their Euro 2008 semi-final on Wednesday, German captain Michael Ballack said on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Swiss police arrest 30 fans for rioting (Jun 22, 2008)
Swiss police arrested 30 people in Basel following rioting in the city centre on Saturday in the wake of Russia's Euro 2008 quarter-final win against the Netherlands, police said Sunday. . . . more . . .
Future looks to be no longer Oranje for veterans (Jun 22, 2008)
Holland's elimination from Euro 2008 on Saturday by Russia looks certain to have brought down the international curtain on several of their older players - even if some have yet to admit it. . . . more . . .
We blew it against Russia, admit disappointed Dutch (Jun 22, 2008)
Disappointed Dutchman Arjen Robben admits the Holland team are hurting from their shock 3-1 defeat by Russia in Saturday's Euro 2008 quarter-final and says it will take time to get over it. . . . more . . .
Italy mentally stronger than Spain, says Panucci (Jun 22, 2008)
Echoing the thoughts of the majority of the Spanish public, Italy defender Christian Panucci believes his side have the mental edge over Spain ahead of Sunday's Euro 2008 quarter-final here. . . . more . . .
Russians ecstatic at historic Euro 2008 win over Dutch (Jun 22, 2008)
Hundreds of thousands poured out into the streets all over Russia early Sunday to a cacophony of honking and shouting as news came in of Russia's historic Euro 2008 quarter-final win over the Netherlands. . . . more . . .
Hiddink earns traitor status, steers Russia to historic Euro victory (Jun 22, 2008)
Russia coach Guus Hiddink got the result he wanted to become a traitor in his native Holland after his team's 3-1 quarter-final win after extra-time dumped the Dutch out of Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
Party time for Russia after Hiddink's heros make semis (Jun 22, 2008)
Russia coach Guus Hiddink says he knows what his side's stunning 3-1 win over Holland on Saturday will mean to millions of Russians as their side reached the Euro 2008 semi-finals. . . . more . . .
Van der Sar record equalling feat soured by defeat (Jun 21, 2008)
Dutch captain Edwin van der Sar equalled France's Lilian Thuram's record for appearances in European championships finals with his 16th here on Saturday in the quarter-final with Russia - but it ended in sadness as the Russians won 3-1. . . . more . . .
Buffon cites fear factor as spur to beat Spanish (Jun 21, 2008)
The fear factor and rediscovered pride will spur world champions Italy on to victory in their Euro 2008 quarter-final with Spain on Sunday according to their goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. . . . more . . .
Hiddink earns traitor status, steers Russia to historic Euro victory (Jun 21, 2008)
Russia coach Guus Hiddink got the result he wanted to become a traitor in his native Holland after his team's 3-1 quarter-final win after extra-time dumped the Dutch out of Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
Casillas says Spain must throw off quarters hoodoo (Jun 21, 2008)
Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas said on Saturday his countrymen must throw off the hoodoo of going out of major tournaments in quarter-finals, a regular fate in recent years. . . . more . . .
Bereaved Boulahrouz lines-up for Euro 2008 last eight clash (Jun 21, 2008)
Dutch defender Khalid Boulahrouz was selected in the starting line-up to face Russia in their Euro 2008 quarter-final here on Saturday against Russia - just days after the tragic loss of Anissa, his prematurely born baby daughter. . . . more . . .
No Vienna vengeance - we just want to win insists Villa (Jun 21, 2008)
Former Spanish great Luis Enrique has called for Spain and in particular striker David Villa to exact revenge on the country's 1994 World Cup loss to Italy when he walked off the pitch in Boston with a broken nose. . . . more . . .
Italian pedigree helps quick learner Donadoni (Jun 21, 2008)
He may not have their experience in the hotseat but Roberto Donadoni is benefiting from the twin benefits of the pedigree associated with being Italian coach as well as relative youth which has helped him establish a close bond with his squad. . . . more . . .
Germany look to Klose down come-back kings Turkey (Jun 21, 2008)
Germany striker Miroslav Klose said on Saturday the fighting-spirit of come-back kings Turkey is his side's biggest concern ahead of next Wednesday's Euro 2008 semi-final. . . . more . . .
We can win the tournament says Turkey's Altintop (Jun 21, 2008)
Hamit Altintop, who drove in Turkey's winning penalty in the quarter-final shoot-out win over Croatia, is relishing taking on some of his Bayern Munich teammates in Wedneday's semi-final against Germany. . . . more . . .
Kazim-Richards revelling in the dream (Jun 21, 2008)
Colin Kazim-Richards claimed that dreams do come true as he revelled in Turkey's victory over England's nemesis Croatia following his country's Euro 2008 quarter-final victory. . . . more . . .
Old man Panucci prepared to shoulder Italian defensive burden (Jun 21, 2008)
With World Cup winning veteran central defenders Fabio Cannavaro and Marco Materazzi either out injured or out of favour it has fallen to another old stager Christian Panucci to marshal the defence in Sunday's Euro 2008 quarter-final against Spain. . . . more . . .
Toni hopes to net his best friend (Jun 21, 2008)
Italy striker Luca Toni admits he has problems with "his best friend" - the football - and is looking to fix his troubled friendship by opening his Euro 2008 account against Spain on Sunday. . . . more . . .
We missed Arsenal's Eduardo says defeated Croatia coach (Jun 21, 2008)
Coach Slaven Bilic believes the absence of Arsenal striker Eduardo counted against his defeated Croatia side at Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
We're ready to die on the field: Aragones (Jun 21, 2008)
Spain coach Luis Aragones insisted on Saturday that his team will leave body and soul on the pitch in Sunday's Euro 2008 quarter-final against Italy here. . . . more . . .
Dutch in Russian's sights in Euro 2008 quarter-final (Jun 21, 2008)
Russian striker Andrei Arshavin has warned Marco van Basten's Holland to expect his side's attacking machine to hit top gear for Saturday's Euro 2008 quarter-final. . . . more . . .
Comeback kings Turkey edge into semis (Jun 21, 2008)
Turkey lived up to their billing as comeback kings with a 3-1 penalty shoot-out win over Croatia here on Friday to put them into the Euro 2008 semi-finals. . . . more . . .
Comeback kings Turkey edge into semis (Jun 20, 2008)
Turkey lived up to their billing as comeback kings with a 3-1 penalty shoot-out win over Croatia here on Friday to put them into the Euro 2008 semi-finals. . . . more . . .
Gulit sees Dutch shading it against Guus' Russians (Jun 20, 2008)
Former Dutch star Ruud Gullit said on Friday he believed the Oranje, coached by his 1988 teammate Marco van Basten, would just edge out a Russia side coached by Dutchman Guus Hiddink, in Saturday's Euro 2008 quarter-final. . . . more . . .
We've won nothing yet, insists Dutch skipper (Jun 20, 2008)
Netherlands captain Rafael van der Vaart says the Oranje may have earned plenty of praise ahead of Saturday's Euro 2008 quarter-final against Russia, but they have won nothing yet. . . . more . . .
Bereaved Boulahrouz puts himself in Dutch frame (Jun 20, 2008)
Dutch defender Khalid Boulahrouz declared himself available for selection for Saturday's Euro 2008 quarter-final on Friday as he battled to shrug off the tragic loss in midweek of Anissa, his prematurely born baby daughter. . . . more . . .
Bereaved Boulahrouz in Dutch frame (Jun 20, 2008)
Dutch defender Khalid Boulahrouz participated in training with his teammates on Friday as he battled to shrug off the tragic loss in midweek of Anissa, his prematurely born baby daughter. . . . more . . .
Russia's Hiddink wants to be the Dutch traitor of the year (Jun 20, 2008)
Russia's Dutch coach Guus Hiddink says he wants to be the traitor of the year in the Netherlands and see Russia knock his countrymen out of Euro 2008 in Saturday's quarter-final. . . . more . . .
French full of excuses, says Italy's Panucci (Jun 20, 2008)
Italian defender Christian Panucci on Friday said France coach Raymond Domenech, who criticised the referee after his side's loss to the Italians, "always has excuses". . . . more . . .
Holland's Little Prince ready to become a Euro kingmaker (Jun 20, 2008)
Wesley Sneijder may be the one reaping the praise for his attacking play, but to many afficionados eyes it is Rafael van der Vaart who has been the lynchpin in the Dutch success so far at Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
Tensions between Spanish coach and Real star (Jun 20, 2008)
Just as Spain prepare to end a hoodoo of quarter-final exits at recent major tournaments by beating world champions Italy on Sunday off-field tensions have emerged between coach Luis Aragones and Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos. . . . more . . .
Ince on pole for Blackburn post as Allardyce pulls out (Jun 20, 2008)
Sam Allardyce has pulled out of the race to succeed Mark Hughes at Blackburn as Paul Ince looks increasingly likely to fill the Ewood Park vacancy. . . . more . . .
Croatia wary of the comeback kings Turkey (Jun 20, 2008)
Croatia may go into Friday's Euro 2008 quarter-final as favourites but Slaven Bilic's men are wary of being caught out by Turkey's reputation as the comeback kings. . . . more . . .
Dutch Orange craze reaches fever pitch (Jun 20, 2008)
As Orange fever rises with every goal scored in the Dutch team's Euro 2008 campaign, lawyers, housewives and school kids become crazed wig-wearing fans adorning their homes, bikes and even their pets in the national colour. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo not for sale, insist United (Jun 20, 2008)
Manchester United slapped a 'not for sale' sign on striker Cristiano Ronaldo Friday following the Portuguese international striker's most recent bid to pave the way towards joining Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Scolari heads for Chelsea with bruised pride (Jun 20, 2008)
Luiz Felipe Scolari will head for Chelsea with his pride and his reputation for getting the most out of his players having suffered bruising blows at the hands of a German side that has reclaimed the status of favourites at Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
Germany advance as Portugal self-destruct in Euro 2008 (Jun 19, 2008)
Germany marched into the last four of Euro 2008 after Portugal pressed the self-destruct button in a five-goal thriller of a quarter-final here on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Football not as important as life, says Terim (Jun 19, 2008)
Turkey coach Fatih Terim reminded the watching world of the fragility of life as he looked ahead to his team's Euro 2008 quarter-final clash against Croatia here on Friday. . . . more . . .
Turkey's Kahveci dreams of meeting Spain in final (Jun 19, 2008)
Turkey striker Nihat Kahveci who plays his club football with Villarreal says he's dreaming of taking on Spain in the Euro 2008 final. . . . more . . .