Friday Futsal

Wes prefers to join Man Utd

2011-07-31T14:47:00.002+08:00

Inter Milan midfielder Wesley Sneijder has reportedly snubbed Manchester City's interest in his services in favour of rivals United.

The Dutch playmaker has been linked with a move to Old Trafford throughout the transfer window with the clubs reportedly set to agree to a 27.5 million euros fee.

But rivals Manchester City also enquired about the midfielder, only to be told he was more interested in joining English Premier League champions United.

'Sneijder wants to play for Manchester United because of their prestige and tradition, which meant City never really followed up their interest,' Goal.com were told on Saturday.

'City were also put off by Inter's asking price, which is also a problem for United because of his salary expectations.'

'United have told Inter they will pay 27.5 million euros for Sneijder. Inter have said they want 40 million euros, although they could be willing to sell for 35 million euros.'

Talks have stalled between the parties but it is likely a deal will be reached with new Inter coach Gian Piero Gasperini no longer considering Sneijder indispensable.

If Sneijder makes the move, Inter are likely to make a bid for want-away Manchester City forward Carlos Tevez.

The Argentine's representative, Kia Joorabchian, was reportedly in Milan on Thursday to speak with Inter officials.

Sergio "Kun" Aguero nearing Man City deal

2011-07-27T23:42:00.001+08:00

Aguero signs autograph for fans outside hospital after medical

Argentina striker Sergio Aguero is edging closer to becoming Manchester City's record signing after arriving in the north west.

The 23-year-old flew in from his homeland to Heathrow and then north to Manchester Airport before heading to the Bridgewater Hospital for his medical.

It is not anticipated Aguero's personal terms - reported to be a five-year contract worth about £200,000 a week - will be a stumbling block for cash-rich City who are backed by the wealth of Sheikh Mansour, a member of Abu Dhabi's ruling family.

City's previous record transfer was Robinho, who arrived from Real Madrid for £32.5million as the new owners made him their marquee signing to signal their intent just days after taking over in August 2008.

The Aguero deal is believed to be closer to £38million, the value of the buy-out clause inserted in the new contract he signed with Atletico Madrid in January.

"Just arrived in Manchester to finalise the details of signing with City," Aguero wrote on Twitter."Everything is going very well! I'll tell you more in a while."

With City striker Carlos Tevez adamant he wants to leave to be nearer his wife and two daughters in Argentina Aguero is seen as the ideal replacement.

Younger than his compatriot by four years, the Atletico star has been a prolific goalscorer in La Liga and that is why he became one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe.

Atletico had resigned themselves to the fact they would lose their prized asset when he announced in May, before he departed to play for Argentina in the Copa America, that he wanted to leave.

Aguero's preference was to remain in Spain, with city rivals Real seemingly the most likely destination, but Atletico were keen to resist such a move.

So an offer from Manchester City, although Italian club Juventus were also interested, represented a better option for the Madrid side.

Atletico coach Gregorio Manzano admitted on Tuesday night that Aguero's departure looked imminent.

"It seems as though in the coming hours we will have a final outcome to the issue that has has occupied us for so long," he told Spanish radio station Cope.

"It is already in it's final stretch, I've asked the players to focus on Thursday's game (a Europa League tie against Stromsgodset).

"Unfortunately we won't be able to call on Kun (Aguero)."

2011-07-24T06:31:00.000+08:00

Barcelona youngster, Oriol Romeu is heading to Stamford Bridge

English Premier League club Chelsea have reached an agreement with Barcelona to sign Spanish defensive midfielder Oriol Romeu.Romeu, 19, will be in Colombia competing at the Under-20 World Cup for Spain until August 20 at the latest, meaning the deal is not expected to be finalised next month.

With Michael Essien ruled out for up to six months after undergoing knee surgery, Romeu could provide cover in central midfield for the English Premier League side.

“He’s one of the most interesting, bright young players in the number six position, as we like to call it,” Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas said.

“And hopefully we can agree personal terms with the player and hopefully he will pass a medical. Oriol is a player, of course with a bright future, he still has to evolve as a player and prove himself as a player.”

Romeu made his full Barcelona debut in May, after featuring for the reserve team 49 times.

Villas-Boas also discussed the future of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

The 19-year-old joined Chelsea from Belgian club Racing Genk earlier this month, but was already set to join Atletico Madrid on loan as Chelsea look to further his development.

“Regarding Cortois, it is also a question of time and of deciding where we think it is better for him to evolve as a player, in Spain or in another country,” Villas-Boas said.

“Of course, the Spanish League is extremely competitive and Atletico is a great club to be at, but it is not decided yet.”

Courtois also had the option of returning to Genk next season, but has since passed a medical with Atletico and will spend the 2011/12 campaign at the La Liga club.

Chelsea will play a Thailand Premier League All-Stars XI in Bangkok on Sunday.

Runners-up to Manchester United last season, they begin their latest Premier League title challenge on August 14 with a trip to Stoke City.

Nasri to reject £115,000-a-week deal, ready to leave Arsenal on a free transfer

2011-07-24T06:28:00.000+08:00

Nasri might be off to Eastlands?

Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal are in serious trouble as playmaker Samir Nasri is refusing to put pen to paper for a £115,000-a-week contract to be finalized. According to The Sun, the French midfielder shared this news with his Arsenal team mates whom he expects to leave.

Manchester City have expressed desire in landing Samir Nasri and the player is ready to play the perfect game for the Sky Blues’ £20M offer to work out this summer.

Arsenal are now in a difficult situation because Nasri’s contract expires next year—meaning that the Gunners will get nothing in terms of money as the player will become a free agent.

Troubled Arsene Wenger spoke to the media about Nasri’s condition at Arsenal, saying:“Not completely [sorted out] but I want him to stay. He knows that. Hopefully we can sort that out in the coming weeks.”

Brazil Beats Equador and Moves Into QF of Copa

2011-07-14T12:20:00.000+08:00

Alexandre Pato and Neymar netted two goals apiece as defending champion Brazil beat Ecuador 4-2 in Cordoba to advance to the Copa America quarter-finals as Group B winner.

Defeat for Mano Menezes' side at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes would have sent it crashing out of the competition, but it produced a battling display to earn a last-eight date with pool rival Paraguay.

Felipe Caicedo twice got Ecuador back on level terms, cancelling out Pato's opener and then Neymar's effort, but the Selecao moved up a gear when required to do so to ensure its progress - and Ecuador's exit.

Menezes handed Maicon a starting berth at the expense of Barcelona's Dani Alves, the Inter Milan man turning in a star performance for Brazil, while Robinho also returned to the starting XI.

The Brazilians bossed proceedings from the outset but struggled to create clear-cut chances early on.

The deadlock was broken in the 27th minute when Andre Santos crossed from the left and Pato headed home.

Robinho struck the bar as Brazil searched for a second goal, with Maicon's marauding runs down the right causing all sorts of problems for Ecuador.

However, the next goal of the game arrived at the other end, Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar failing to hold onto a Caicedo effort on the counter-attack eight minutes before the interval.

Brazil restored its advantage within four minutes of the restart, Pato setting up Santos star Neymar to make it 2-1, but once again the lead was short-lived as another Caicedo shot from outside the box found its way past Julio Cesar in the 58th minute.

Ecuador may have been sensing a shock was on the cards, but when Brazil went ahead for a third time there was no way back.

Goalkeeper Marcelo Elizaga could not hold onto a Neymar shot and Pato pounced on the loose ball to make it 3-2 on the hour mark and then, 11 minutes later, Neymar notched his second after good play on the right by Maicon and Robinho.

The result left Brazil top of the group ahead of surprise package Venezuela - which will play Chile in the quarter-finals - and third-placed Paraguay, with Ecuador bottom of the pile.

Liverpool Kicks Off Tour With Win Over Guangdong

2011-07-13T22:27:00.000+08:00

Charlie Adam received a heroes reception from thousands of fervent fans in China as the £9million new signing made a winning start to life at Liverpool.

The Scotland midfielder came off the bench in the second-half for his first run-out in a Reds shirt following his move from Blackpool.

Manager Kenny Dalglish was buoyed by first-half goals from fringe players Christian Poulsen and David Ngog which ensured the Barclays Premier League side got their Asia tour off on a high note.

And their was a pleasing cameo from £35million striker Andy Carroll who scored the fourth on 85 minutes after he provided the third in the second-half for highly-rated academy prospect Connor Coady, helping the Reds survive two late goals from the hosts.

Argentina finally show up at the Copa America, Lionel Messi Shines

2011-07-12T12:52:00.003+08:00

Lionel Messi evades Costa Rica players

Argentina have shrugged off indifferent form in their first two matches to beat Costa Rica 3-0, advancing in the process to the Copa America quarterfinals.

Sergio "Kun" Aguero opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time, and added a second just seven minutes into the second half of the match on Monday. The 52nd minute goal came after Aguero was set up by a pass from Barcelona star Lionel Messi, who showed his best form of the tournament.

Angel di Maria, who plays his club football at Real Madrid, scored Argentina's third in the 64th minute, sealing a win that revives pre-tournament expectations that the side would challenge for the title.

Argentina now have five points from three matches, having drawn their previous two encounters, and finish second in Group A. Colombia won the group with seven points.

Aguero is now the leading scorer in the tournament so far, with three goals. Argentina, playing on home soil, are seeking to end an 18-year drought in major tournaments.

Under the Copa America format, the top two sides from each of the three groups advance, being joined by the best two third-place teams.

Argentina will now face either Chile, Peru or Uruguay in the quarterfinals, depending on who finishes second in Group C. Colombia will face the third-placed team from those countries.

Groups B and C will be settled on Tuesday and Wednesday. Costa Rica have still not been eliminated, despite Monday's loss, and await the outcome of other matches.

Argentina applied constant pressure in the first half, with Aguero breaking through just before the interval, slotting away a rebound past Costa Rica goalkeeper Leonel Moreira.

In the 52nd minute, he latched onto a through ball from Messi, tucking his shot inside the far post.

Messi set up the third goal, too, finding Di Maria, who slammed the ball into the back of the net from 15 yards out.

Sergio Batista, the Argentina coach and former World Cup winner, fielded an attacking line-up, with Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain and Di Maria playing just in front of playmaker Messi.

Forwards Carlos Tevez and Ezequiel Lavezzi started on the bench, after having two poor matches in the tournament.

The new lineup looked far more settled, with Messi bossing the game as he has so far failed to do in the tournament.

Ricardo La Volpe, the Costa Rica coach, appeared to be playing for a draw from the start.

Costa Rica have been playing a young squad, composed largely of under-23 internationals, as they are a guest side in the tournament, and their senior side just finished playing the Gold Cup in the United States last month.

U.S. Women Advances to the Women's World Cup in Expense of Brazil

2011-07-11T13:47:00.000+08:00

Running low on hope and almost out of time, the Americans were surely beat, about to make their earliest exit from the Women's World Cup.

And then, with one of the most thrilling goals in U.S. history, they weren't.

Showing a dramatic burst , the Americans packed an entire World Cup's worth of theatrics into a 15-minute span by beating Brazil 5-3 on penalty kicks after a 2-2 tie Sunday night.

Abby Wambach tied it with a leaping header in the 122nd minute, and Hope Solo denied the Brazilians - again - in one of the most riveting games in the history of the World Cup - men's or women's.

"There is something special about this group. That energy, that vibe," Solo said. "Even in overtime, you felt something was going to happen."

The United States advanced to Wednesday's semifinals against France, which eliminated England on penalty kicks Saturday.

The U.S. victory came 12 years to the day the Americans' last caught their country's attention in a big way with their penalty-kick shootout victory over China at the Rose Bowl that gave them their second World Cup title.

For Brazil, it is yet another disappointment at a major tournament. And this one is sure to sting more than any others because Marta had it won for the Brazilians, scoring her second goal of the game in the second minute of overtime for the 2-1 lead. But Erika stalled when she went down on a tackle, and the delay added three minutes of stoppage time to the game.

That was all the time Wambach and the Americans needed, after pushing themselves to limit while playing a woman short after Rachel Buehler's 66th-minute ejection.

"Not for one second," Wambach said when asked if she ever felt the Americans were beat. "I kept saying, all it takes is one chance. I kept holding up one finger to the girls."

Two minutes into stoppage time, Megan Rapinoe blasted a left-footed cross from 30 yards out on the left side that Andreia didn't come close to getting her hands on.

Wambach, one of the best players in the world in the air, made contact and with one furious whip of her head, buried it in the near side of the net from about five yards.

The Americans, shooting first, made their three penalty kicks only to have Cristiane and Marta easily match them. But then it was Daiane's turn - the same Daiane who'd given the U.S. a 1-0 lead with an own goal in the second minute of the game. She took a shot, but Solo batted it away.

After Rapinoe blistered the net with a blast and Ali Krieger converted hers, the Americans raced onto the field.

After Brazil spotted the U.S. the lead in the second minute, it spent the next 63 trying furiously for the equalizer.

When they finally did, it was controversial.

Marta made a dangerous run into the box in the 65th, beating two U.S. defenders and Buehler tracked back and dragged her down. Australian referee Jacqui Melksham not only ruled it a penalty but a red card as well. Cristiane, who already scored one goal off a penalty, took the kick. Solo made a perfect read and smacked it away.

But Melksham ordered the penalty retaken - and gave Solo a yellow card, ruling the American had left her line or a teammate encroached the penalty area before the kick was taken.

As the crowd jeered, Marta stepped up for the retake and buried the ball to pull Brazil even.

But the Americans have talked repeatedly about their resilience. On this day, it was on full display.

"We're just fighting for each other out there," said captain Christie Rampone. "We were totally believing the whole time."

Chile, Peru almost to QF of Copa America

2011-07-10T11:54:00.002+08:00

While favourites Argentina and Brazil struggle for form, Chile and Peru are awakening from years of slumber at the Copa America after moving to the brink of the quarter-finals on Friday.

Peru won the last of their two South American championships in 1975 in the halycon days of the gifted Teofilo Cubillas, who would go on to prove a star turn at the 1978 World Cup. Chile, meanwhile, have been bridesmaids at four finals but never the continental bride.

That may change if promising starlet Alexis Sanchez has his way. The Barcelona target scored to land a precious 1-1 draw with fancied Uruguay and leave the Chileans with four points — surely enough to start looking forward to the last eight.

Peru are joint top of Group C with the Chileans, having earned four points of their own after Paolo Guerrero's second goal of the tournament saw off inexperienced Mexico 1-0 in Mendoza.

With both joint leaders having held Uruguay and defeated the Mexicans, regular special guests at the South American event, Peru and Chile can look forward to a Pacific "clasico" on Tuesday with the pressure largely off. A draw will send both sides through while Uruguay will have to beat Mexico to ensure their own passage.

A third straight draw would leave Diego Forlans' Charruas, like Argentina chasing a record 15th title, perched on the precipice. Sanchez came to the event trying hard to put aside reports of interest in his talents from European champions Barcelona.

But his instinctive finish just after the hour mark to level Alvaro Pereira's opener eight minutes into the second half served to underline the talent of the 22-year-old from Tocopillo.

Chile coach Claudio Borghi is emerging as the would-be purist at the championships as his side have turned in some of the most entertaining football compared to the sterile fare of the hosts and Brazil.

Brazil late show to draw with Paraguay in Copa, risk of elimination

2011-07-10T11:51:00.003+08:00

Holders Brazil jeopardised their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals of the Copa America on Saturday after they just pulled out a last-gasp 2-2 draw with Paraguay.

After taking a first-half lead through new face Jadson the five-times world champions trailed 2-1 with barely a minute remaining before Fred saved his side after the favourites had stared defeat in the face.

Paraguay were left to kick themselves after coming so close to an upset victory.

“We had it won and then we go and let them off the hook,” stormed Argentine-born midfielder Nestor Ortigoza.

Brazil coach Mano Menezes recognised fans were not impressed by their team to date.

“The Copa is a tough tournament. But I do understand the anxiety of the fans - we’re looking for solutions,” he insisted.

Menezes sprung a surprise at the outset in dropping Robinho to the bench after his poor showing in the auriverde’s opening goalless draw with Venezuela.

That result, which came despite Menezes selecting an attacking line-up, prompted a rethink and AC Milan star Robinho exited to allow Jadson a chance to prove himself.

The Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder started off by getting himself booked but six minutes before the break he fired home a crisp low shot from outside the area to spark jubilation among the yellow-clad hordes at the Mario Kempes stadium.

But a muted Brazilian side who, like winless hosts Argentina, are struggling badly at the South American showcase event, then went to sleep and almost paid a heavy price.

Eleven minutes after the restart Paraguay, desperate to get more points on the board after Ecuador held them in their opening encounter, were level through Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz.

The veteran fired in after outmuscling Julio Cesar following a pinpoint cross from the left by Marcelo Estigarribia.

Ten minutes later, and with Brazil, having sent on Elano for Jadson, strangely unwilling to regain their grip on proceedings after the equaliser, it was 2-1 to the Paraguayans with Nelson Haedo Valdez bundling in a deflected effort which looped home.

Brazil fullback Daniel Alves lost the ball to Santa Cruz, who found Valdez and his shot deflected in on the rebound as he collided with Thiago Silva.

With just a quarter of the match left, Menezes reacted by withdrawing Chelsea’s Ramires and throwing on Liverpool’s Lucas.

He then also withdrew the disappointing Neymar for Fred in a final throw of the dice with nine minutes remaining and that finally unlocked the door as the reserve striker struck at the death to deny the Paraguayans a famous win.

Paraguay, twice continental champions - their last title came in 1979 - now are provisionally joint top of Group B with Brazil, both having two points.

Smalling signs 5 year contract extension

2011-07-08T22:42:00.002+08:00

Manchester United have handed young defender Chris Smalling a new five-year contract.

The 21-year-old arrived at the club from Fulham last summer, and put in some strong performances when called on to man the back line through the course of last season."I am delighted Chris has signed a new contract," manager Sir Alex Ferguson told the club's official website. "Chris has been outstanding since joining us from Fulham last year, he is an extremely talented young defender, he’s quick, strong and reads the game well, he is a great asset to the team." Smalling was delighted to commit his long-term future to the Premier League champions."This is a great club and, in the short time I have been here, I have already achieved more than I could have ever expected to," he told the club's official website. "I am looking forward to a long and successful career at Manchester United."Smalling made 34 appearances in all competitions last season, and could be given more chances to impress after Wes Brown and John O'Shea left to join Sunderland.

Albiceleste stumble again against Colombia in Copa

2011-07-07T11:38:00.003+08:00

Argentina stumbled to a 0-0 draw against Colombia in the Copa America on Wednesday; another disappointing result for the host nation which threatens its passage to the knock-out stage.

The match was similar to Argentina's 1-1 draw in the opener against Bolivia with coach Sergio Batista sticking with nearly the same starters, led by a misfiring Lionel Messi and Carlos Tevez.

Argentina has two points from one game and trails group leader Colombia, which has four points from two games. Bolivia, on one point, and Costa Rica, on nil, will play Thursday. The top two teams in the group advance automatically to the quarterfinals while the best two third-place teams from the three groups also advances.

Liverpool gets its Charlie

2011-07-07T11:35:00.000+08:00

LIVERPOOL have reached an agreement with Blackpool to sign Charlie Adam.

The Scotland midfielder, 25, travelled to Merseyside today for a medical and to discuss personal terms.

The Reds have been tracking Adam for six months and today confirmed they had finally met the Seasiders' valuation for their skipper.

In January, they had two bids — the latter worth £6.5million — rejected by Blackpool, who were keen to hang on to their captain for a relegation battle which ultimately proved unsuccessful.

But Liverpool maintained their interest in Adam, who was aslo linked to Tottenham and Manchester United, and reopened negotiations at the end of the season.

But a fee for a player who had only 12 months left on his contract continued to be the sticking point with Ian Holloway's side reportedly holding out for £9m.

Adam is Kop chief Kenny Dalglish's second capture of the summer following Jordan Henderson's £16million switch from Sunderland.

The arrival of two new central midfielders is likely to mean changes to Dalglish's personnel.

It pushes the likes of Alberto Aquilani and Christian Poulsen further down the pecking order and their futures seem destined to be away from Anfield.

Aquilani has returned from a season-long loan spell at Juventus, who chose not to take up the option to buy the Italy international, while Poulsen became a peripheral figure when Dalglish took over in January.

There are a number of other players Liverpool would like to move on in order to free up space not only in the squad but on the wage bill with Joe Cole, Milan Jovanovic and David Ngog all likely to leave.

But having secured both his central midfield targets Dalglish must now turn his attention to filling gaps on the left-hand side.

Newcastle defender Jose Enrique remains an option, while Aston Villa's Stewart Downing has emerged as the primary contender for the left midfield slot, although the club are increasingly being linked with Valencia star Juan Mata.

Malaysia mara ke pusingan kedua kelayakan Piala Dunia 2014

2011-07-04T12:08:00.001+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia mara ke pusingan kedua kelayakan Piala Dunia 2014 berdasarkan peraturan kelebihan gol di tempat lawan sekalipun tewas 2-3 kepada Taiwan, semalam.

Dengan agregat yang terikat 4-4, dua gol yang dijaringkan di Stadium Perbandaran Taipei sudah cukup untuk meletakkan skuad Harimau Malaya menempah pertemuan seterusnya dengan Singapura pada 23 Julai ini.

Anak-anak buah Datuk K. Rajagobal bakal menentang pasukan jiran di Singapura dalam aksi awal manakala perlawanan kedua dilangsungkan di Stadium Nasional Bukit Jalil, 28 Julai ini.

Perlawanan semalam, menyaksikan skuad senior kebangsaan tumpas buat pertama kali sejak menjuarai Piala Suzuki AFF pada tahun lalu.

Kekalahan itu wajar dijadikan satu pengajaran berguna buat barisan pemain Malaysia memandangkan lawan yang bakal mereka tentang selepas ini bukan calang-calang pasukan.

Ketika ditemu-ramah oleh Astro Arena, Rajagobal berkata, walaupun skuad kebangsaan berjaya ke pusingan kedua, namun, beliau masih tetap tidak berpuas terhadap persembahan yang dipamerkan anak-anak buahnya.

"Memang kita layak tetapi saya tidak berapa puas hati dengan persembahan mereka. Namun, bukan secara keseluruhan kerana ada masanya pemain kita bermain baik.

"Saya dapat lihat mereka mampu serang dengan baik tetapi masih banyak yang perlu diperbaiki" katanya.

Sementara itu, pengurus pasukan kebangsaan, Datuk Subahan Kamal pula memberitahu, kekurangan yang masih dimiliki oleh para pemain Malaysia ialah fizikal mereka.

"Fizikal juga amat penting kerana selain mental dan taktikal kita memerlukan kekuatan fizikal. Sebab itu, saya berasakan pendedahan bermain dengan pasukan gergasi seperti Arab Saudi, Bahrain dan Jordan diperlukan oleh skuad Malaysia," ujarnya.

Apa yang penting selepas ini, Rajagobal perlu segera mencari 'tonik' baru bagi memastikan pemain-pemain bimbingannya bersedia menghadapi cabaran Singapura.

Pertemuan kedua-dua negara jiran itu yang disifatkan sebagai pertembungan dua musuh tradisi sudah pasti menghidangkan satu perlawanan menarik yang menyaksikan kekuatan seimbang 50-50.

Singapura yang mendapat sentuhan jurulatih Serbia, Radojko Avramovic turut diperkuatkan dengan barisan 'awang import' yang diberi status kewarganegaraan.

Antara pemain tersebut ialah Goncalves dari Brazil, pemain kelahiran Croatia, Mirko Grabovac, Itimi Dickson dari Nigeria dan pemain Yugoslavia, Aleksandar Duric.

Kali terakhir Harimau Malaya bertemu Singapura pada 29 November 2008 di Stadium MPPJ, Kelana Jaya menerusi perlawanan persahabatan yang menyaksikan kedua-dua pasukan terikat dengan keputusan 2-2.

Pada perlawanan semalam, skuad kebangsaan mendapat sepakan percuma apabila kapten, Safiq Rahim dijatuhkan dan pemain pertahanan Aidil Zafuan Abd. Razak tidak mensia-sia peluang meledakkan gol sulung hasil jaringan cantik pada minit ke-7 menewaskan penjaga gol Taiwan, Lee Po Cheng.

Gol penyamaan diperoleh tuan rumah menerusi Chang Han yang mengambil kesempatan kekalutan yang berlaku di depan pintu gol skuad negara untuk menolak masuk dengan kaki kirinya pada minit ke-30.

Namun, jaringan itu tidak mematahkan semangat para pemain kebangsaan apabila Malaysia sekali lagi berjaya membolos gawang tuan rumah menerusi Safiq yang menggegarkan pintu gol Taiwan untuk meletakkan Malaysia di depan 2-1.

Taiwan yang mendapat sokongan padu penyokong tempatan, meraih gol penyamaan pada minit ke-44 melalui Che Po Liang yang menyempurnakan sepakan penalti setelah Mahali Jasuli menjatuhkan pemain tuan rumah.

Tuan rumah yang terdesak mencari dua lagi gol, sekali lagi dihadiahkan sepakan penalti oleh pengadil Vietnam, Goh Minh Tri apabila pertahanan Malaysia, Fadhli Shas menjatuhkan pemain lawan, namun rembatan yang diambil Po Liang kali ini berjaya diselamatkan Sharbinee pada minit ke-61.

Ingauan buruk berterusan menimpa skuad kebangsaan, setelah pengadil yang dilihat berat sebelah kepada Taiwan buat kali ketiga menghadiahkan penalti yang mudah disempurnakan oleh Xavier Tsan pada minit ke-74 untuk mengatasi dengan keputusan 3-2.

Argentina 1-1 Bolivia: Kun Aguero saves host Argentina

2011-07-02T23:36:00.000+08:00

Kun Aguero saves Argentina from Bolivian humiliation

Argentina escaped the jaws of defeat but had to scramble to earn a 1-1 draw against Bolivia in Group A in the opening game of the 2011 Copa America.

The Bolivians took a shock lead at the start of the second half thanks to a cheeky goal by Edivaldo Rojas, but Argentine substitute Sergio Aguero fired home a cracking volley 15 minutes from time.

Two years and three months after falling to Bolivia 6-1 in a World Cup qualifier, the host nation could not down their neighbours to the north on a frigid night in La Plata.

Argentina started the game with the majority of the possession, looking to go right at the Bolivia defence. For the first 30 minutes, both teams were plagued offensively by numerous fouls in the centre of the field.

Sergio Batista's men were the better side in the early going, playing through Ever Banega up the middle, who found Lionel Messi several times to start attacks.

Looking to play through Carlos Tevez on the left as well, the home side could not break through the last line of defence to test goalkeeper Carlos Arias. Ezequiel Lavezzi and Tevez both had a couple chances from acute angles inside the box, but could not convert them.

The 15 remaining minutes of the opening half passed with the Argentines showing their frustration at the 0-0 stalemate. Bolivia remained poised for the first 45 minutes, as they avoided making glaring mistakes.

Esteban Cambiasso, Javier Mascherano and Banega, all of whom were struggling creatively, forced Messi to return to midfield to look for the ball as failure in the connection between the midfielders and forwards hurt the host nation in the opening half.

Angel Di Maria came on at the beginning of the second half for Cambiasso as Batista opted for greater speed in attack. But despite the positive change, it was Bolivia who took a sensational lead.

Off a corner kick by Jhasmani Campos, Rojas flicked the ball cleverly to the front post off his heel, surprising Banega, who allowed it to slip by him from centimetres out as Gustavo Quinteros' side went ahead.

As the Bolivians celebrated on the sideline, the breath seemed to be taken out of the fans of the home side packed into the Estadio Unico.

With their backs against the wall, the frustration began to build. Lavezzi drilled two shots into the stands, while Di Maria's pace and ability to embarrass defenders was absent.

With 25 minutes to go, Marcelo Martins had a chance to put Bolivia up 2-0 as he went one-on-one against Sergio Romero. The AZ goalkeeper stretched his arm out as he dived to the ground to stop Martins to the left of goal, getting a touch on the ball and making another save right after to keep Argentina in the game.

With 15 minutes left on the clock, Aguero levelled the score with a stunning volley after Nicolas Burdisso had chested down Di Maria's cross.

Argentina continued to press for the winning goal, but had to settle for a draw as underdogs Bolivia stole a precious point in the opening game.

Next up, Argentina will face Colombia in Santa Fe on Thursday. Later that day, Bolivia will face Costa Rica in Jujuy.

Liverpool Targets Christian Chivu after Missing Out On Clichy

2011-07-01T12:11:00.001+08:00

One of Liverpool's main transfer targets, Gael Clichy, is now headed to Manchester City, and the Reds have now turned their focus elsewhere.

According to the Daily Mirror, Liverpool is interested in Inter Milan left-back Cristian Chivu. Chivu will not be easy for Anfield to snag, however. They will reportedly have stiff competition from Valencia and Napoli for his services, and Chivu would reportedly like to stay in Milan. But the Romanian international, who has one year remaining on his contract, might not be in Inter's long-term plans and is a good bet to be a transfer candidate.

Chivu, 30, notched one goal on 13 shots in 24 games with Inter during the 2010-11 season.

Harimau Malaya mungkin tanpa Safee

2011-07-01T11:21:00.002+08:00

Abdul Hadi Yahya mampu menggantikan tempat Safee Sali

KUALA LUMPUR - Skuad negara ke Taipei semalam bukan sahaja tanpa bekalan selesa apabila cuma menang 2-1 ke atas Taiwan di laman sendiri pada Kelayakan Piala Dunia, tetapi dihimpit risiko kehilangan Safee Sali pada aksi timbal balik, Ahad ini.

Kelibat Safee hanya sempat disaksikan pada babak pertama perlawanan di Stadium Nasional Bukit Jalil kelmarin, apabila pemain itu dikeluarkan akibat cedera bahagian urat pelipat lutut.

Situasi itu pastinya merumitkan lagi misi skuad negara untuk menembusi kubu lawan di Taipei, kerana Taiwan kini yang memiliki kelebihan apabila meledak satu gol di sini, kelmarin.

Jurulatih Datuk K. Rajagobal sememangnya berdepan masalah tidak banyak pilihan di bahagian penyerang sejak aksi persahabatan dengan Myanmar di Kota Bharu 18 Jun lalu dan terpaksa menggunakan penyerang Terengganu, Abd. Hadi Yahya sambil dibantu oleh Baddrol Bakhtiar.

Ekoran masalah terbaru yang membelenggu skuad negara, Rajagobal berdepan tugas berat untuk membentuk percaturan bahagian serangan pada aksi di Stadium Perbandaran Taipei, Ahad ini.

"Apa-apa pun, menang tetap menang (di sini), tetapi saya akan melihat kecederaan yang menimpa Safee. Saya rasa dia mungkin tidak dapat beraksi dalam perlawanan kedua kerana masalah urat pelipat lutut," katanya selepas perlawanan kelmarin.

Ini bermakna skuad kebangsaan kehilangan dua penyerang utama termasuk Norshahrul Idlan Talaha yang menjadi watak penting ketika menjuarai Piala Suzuki AFF 2010, kecuali jika pemain itu pulih menjelang pertemuan Ahad ini.

Selain Abdul Hadi dan Baddrol, Rajagobal masih memiliki seorang lagi calon yang mampu mengisi kekosongan bahagian serangan iaitu Ahmad Fakri Saarani, yang dimasukkan sebagai pemain gantian kelmarin.

Namun, Ahmad Fakri gagal membentuk gandingan mantap bersama Abdul Hadi, apabila mereka digandingkan buat pertama kali namun terlepas beberapa peluang untuk menambah jaringan pada babak kedua kelmarin.

Sementara itu, pada bahagian tengah Malaysia mungkin tidak dapat menggunakan khidmat ketua pasukan, Safiq Rahim yang mengalami kecederaan di bahagian lutut, namun tahap kecederaan tersebut masih menjadi tanda tanya.

Namun, tiada masalah besar buat Rajagobal pada posisi lain termasuk penjaga gol Terengganu, Sharbinee Allawee Ramli yang memberikan persembahan baik, namun kesilapan barisan pertahanan membiarkan Chen Po Liang menjaringkan gol kelmarin, sesuatu yang tidak boleh diterima.

Gandingan Aidil Zafuan Abd. Radzak dan Fadhli Shas agak leka sehingga membolehkan Taiwan memperoleh jaringan yang amat diperlukan mereka sebagai bekalan untuk perlawanan di gelanggang sendiri.

"Jaringan pasukan lawan akibat kelalaian pertahanan kita," kata Rajagobal.

Birmingham Chairman arrested suspicion of money laundering

2011-06-30T12:46:00.000+08:00

Hong Kong businessman & Birmingham Chairman Carson Yeung

Carson Yeung, Birmingham City's president and largest single shareholder, has been arrested in Hong Kong on money laundering charges. He will appear in court later today. A statement issued by Birmingham City has emphasised that the charges have nothing to do with the club's holding company. Nevertheless, they clearly have implications for the orderly running of the club if the matter is not cleared up soon.

Malaysia 2 - Taiwan 1

2011-06-29T23:27:00.002+08:00

Malaysia mendapatkan kemenangan 2-1 menentang Taiwan hari ini, 29 Jun 2011. Gol-gol pasukan Harimau Malaya dijaringkan oleh kapten pasukan, Safiq Rahim pada minit ke-28 manakala gol kedua oleh pemain pertahanan, Aidil Zafuan pada minit ke-54.

Pasukan Malaysia di kejutkan dengan jaringan pemain Taiwan, Po Liang Chen pada minit ke-76. Jaringan pasukan lawan ini sedikit sebanyak telah menjatuhkan sedikit semangat pasukan negara kerana mereka sedar jaringan di tempat lawan or "away goals rule" akan memainkan perananan dalam pusingan kelayakan ini nanti di Taipei.

Andre Villas Boas unveiled as new Chelsea manager

2011-06-29T23:15:00.001+08:00

Andres Villas Boas holds up a Chelsea jersey during his unveiling as the club's new manager

All eyes are on Blues' New Manager. The English Premier League runners up Chelsea officially unveiled their new manager Andre Villas Boas.

The former Porto manager was handed a three-year contract that starts with immediate effect on a reported contract of five-million pounds sterling a year.

It's not the first time though that Boas will be working at Stamford Bridge having assisted Jose Mourinho during his time at the club. Fresh from guiding Portuguese giants FC Porto to domestic league and Europa League titles, his first task will be to decide at what stage the team - featuring ageing stars like Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and John Terry - needs to be dismantled and rebuilt.

The man often compared to his former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is hoping to bring some much-needed dynamism to a club that failed to land any silverware last season.

De Gea's United Medical

2011-06-28T11:53:00.001+08:00

United's new No 1

Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David de Gea has arrived in England and is undergoing a medical ahead of his proposed move to Manchester United.

The Spain Under-21 keeper has been identified by Sir Alex Ferguson as the long-term successor to Edwin van der Sar at Old Trafford.

United are prepared to spend upwards of £17million in order to secure his signature, with it widely agreed that he is the most promising shot-stopper in Europe.

De Gea underlined his obvious potential on Saturday as he helped Spain to European U21 Championship glory.

Having put transfer discussions on hold while he competed in that tournament, he is now prepared to push ahead with a move to England.

De Gea has been pictured arriving at the Bridgewater Hospital and is all set to put the finishing touches to an agreement with United.

His arrival at Old Trafford will see the Red Devils push their summer spending spree past the £50million mark and continue with their policy of snapping up bright young talent.

Such is the Spaniard's reputation that compatriot and Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina, who seems likely to face De Gea when the north-west rivals clash at Anfield on October 15, reacted positively to the player's move.

"I very much welcome this news because David is a great keeper," he told La Gaceta.

"When it becomes official he is going to start working to prove in the Premier League what a good goalkeeper he is."

Following the retirements of Van der Sar, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville from last season Ferguson has moved quickly to strengthen in three areas, bringing in players who all - in theory - should have their best years ahead of them.

The Red Devils boss is believed to want to add more creativity to his midfield and has been linked with Inter Milan's Wesley Sneijder and Arsenal's Samir Nasri.

Ferguson has already acquired England Under-21 centre-half Phil Jones from Blackburn and England winger Ashley Young from Aston Villa.

Diego tells his time is up

2010-07-06T01:16:00.000+08:00

"I have no more to give to the Albiceleste", says Maradona

Argentinian legend and national team manager, Diego Maradona tells audience during a taping of Cronica that he might step down from being the team's manager.

His unorthodox training methods and weird antics off the pitch has attracted some attention during his reign as manager. His inexperience was found out when Argentina were dumped out by Germany 4-0 from the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2010.

Players and senior officials are calling for Maradona to continue, but the legendary no 10 will have the final say. When asked what he will do next, his answer was "let me enjoy the afternoon with my family".

England keep side who won againts Slovenia

2010-06-27T20:24:00.001+08:00

Fabio Capello will keep faith with the Matthew Upson - John Terry pairing in the heart of England's defense for their World Cup 2010 Second round against arch rivals Germany.

He will also choose Tottenham Hotspurs forward, Jermaine Defoe over Emile Heshey to partner the misfiring Wayne Rooney.

James Milner who impressed on the right and provided the decisive cross that Defoe profited from will also keep his place in the Three Lions' side to overcome Germany and progress to the quarter finals of this World Cup in South Africa

Expected Line Up:

01-James, 02-Johnson,03-A.Cole,06-J.Terry,15-Upson,16-Milner,4-S.Gerrard,14-G.Barry,08-Lampard,10-W.Rooney,19-J.Defoe

Are the French players right in revolting against FFF decision?

2010-06-21T16:42:00.001+08:00

French players discussing before abandoning training session

After star striker, Nicholas Anelka was sent home by the French Football Federation (FFF) on Saturday, the remaining French World Cup 2010 squad decided collectively to boycott training on Sunday. They came down from the team bus to meet and sign autographs of awaiting fans, who waited to watch them train and went back on the bus several minutes later.

Team captain, Patrice Evra was seen giving Domenach a letter stating that the player are not to train as protest against the decision (Anelka expulsion) and will seek explanation on how dressing room events appeared in L'Equipe newspaper.

Team captain, Patrice Evra having a talk with Domenach

I am totally supportive of their actions as a group but it brings the question, should they put the country's interest & pride first or be supportive towards their now ex-teammate? It seems that the player's have collectively decided that they are already done with this World Cup. So, in itself it answers the question. Players pride comes first.

Domenach will leave after the current World Cup and will be replaced by Laurent Blanc but what squad will he inherit?He must decide whether to start from scratch and leave the "bad apples" of this current squad and only select fresh and new player for his squad or try to work on what is left of the French squad.

Whatever it is, Les Mirables has finally shown its head & put the land of croissants and Eiffel Tower in disgrace.

Danish fightback to beat Cameroon

2010-06-20T10:26:00.000+08:00

Bendtner celebrate with Rohmmedahl after the latter's winner

Cameroon are out of the World Cup after losing to the Danes in this FIFA World Cup 2010 Group E match in Pretoria.

The Elephants took the lead through Samuel Eto'o, who was restored to his favoured central role in the 10th minute. This was after some sloppy defending from the Danish defense.

Nicklas Bendtner equalised after some great work down the wings by Dennis Rommedahl in the 33rd minute.

More goals were in the reckoning but not until 61st minute when Rommedahl curled a left foot shot that beat Hamidou Souleymanou. At the end, the Cameroonian's are dumped out of the World Cup and the Danes tied second in the group with Japan.