FOOT BALL

"Ronaldo rejects Real speculation"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:39:00 +0000

Manchester United midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo has reaffirmed he is "at the right club".

Neither the player nor his manager Sir Alex Ferguson was happy to fresh speculation about the Portuguese international to Old Trafford future.

The issue was raised again on Tuesday night ahead of the Champions League tie with FC Porto Ferguson wondered aloud "how many times" that would support this line of questioning the continuing speculation as " pathetic. "

A response
Ronaldo shrugged and said: "We always have this issue."
The 23 years of age, simply repeated the position he has held since reaffirming its commitment

to United last summer after a face to face with Ferguson appeared to stop linking him with a sound move to Real Madrid.

"I am happy at this club. I think it is the right club," said Ronaldo.

Was once again suggested that an agreement was made between United and Real for the transfer of the 2008 European and World Player of the Year this summer.

However, in the Club World Cup last December, Ferguson said that Real would not sell a "virus", a position that does not appear to have softened said judging by his response this afternoon.

Ferguson told the club's official website: "We're still in three tournaments with a chance to win them. That in itself tells you that it is in the club.

"He knows it. Its form has become in recent weeks. He is a threat all the time. He could have had four against Aston Villa. The goals are starting to come to him now. And there is no sense that the great time, where players such as Christian and the other top players on our team that are starting to go into overdrive. "

One reason Ronaldo is said to favor a move to La Liga that has become tired of being targeted by supporters of the opposition, eager to end the former sports star Lisbon by any means possible.

However, Ronaldo does not think they are suffering more than it has in the steps to reach from England six years ago.

MAJOR ROLE
He said: "It has always been the case. It's not just that the defenders have kicked this season to try to stop me. It's normal."

Ronaldo played a major role in lifting United back to the top of the Barclays Premier League with two goals against Aston Villa to launch his season tally to 20.

United are now one point ahead of Liverpool with a game in hand.

Ronaldo added: "We are the best team in England. We have shown that it is above the table. This speaks for itself.

"We respect all our opponents, but if we win, we will win the title again."

In fact, United States are still on track to record an unprecedented five times, Ronaldo is not to be so dismissive about the draft Ferguson.

"We have a chance to win everything this season," Ronaldo said. "First we have to win the FC Porto. After that, we must continue."

"Championship side record shock win"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 07:23:00 +0000

Goalkeeper Brian Jensen Burnley was the hero as Chelsea crashed out of the Carling Cup on penalties at Stamford Bridge 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

Jensen saved from captain Wayne Bridge and John Obi Mikel to put the Coca-Cola Championship side in the quarterfinals.

Returning striker Didier Drogba put Chelsea in front in the 27th minute but substitute Ade Akinbiyi Burnley tied with 20 minutes remaining.

Both sides ended the game with 10 men after the Burnley Steve Caldwell was sent off for a second offense to stay late, while Franco Di Santo was forced off injured with all the Chelsea substitutes already used.

However, Jensen provoked scenes of celebration when Obi saved from sudden death spot-kick to put the second-level part in the last eight.

Burnley had already beaten Bury, Oldham and Fulham to reach the fourth round in 6500 and led the fans at Stamford Bridge hoping to witness another sad.

In the 11th minute Puente, master of the night in the absence of substitute for John Terry, sent a curling shot just wide of the upright.

Owen Coyle part, fifth in the championship having lost just four times this season, were coping well with Chelsea with ambitions to attack.

In the 19th minute, Chelsea should have opened the scoring when Drogba, making his first start for six weeks, Salomon Kalou became clear.

However, the Ivory Coast striker was foiled by Jensen as Kalou tried to take the ball around the Burnley goalkeeper.

At the opposite end, a mistake by Chelsea keeper Carlo Cudicini almost gifted an opener Burnley, but Paulo Ferreira was on hand to clear the danger.

An injury to Juliano Belletti, Chelsea forced to make a change early and was replaced by Frank Lampard on 25 minutes.

England midfielder Lampard made an instant impact as Chelsea were ahead in the 27th minute.

His precision pass to Drogba towards establishing the brand in Burnley later in the penalty area.

Michael Duff Drogba left on the floor as they swept into the area and curled the ball across the unprotected Jensen.

Lampard introduction clearly had helped get to Chelsea at the top of his game, with England midfielder now at the heart of all their best moves.

In the 38 minutes Jensen had to be at their best to maintain a low, angled drive from Florent Malouda as Chelsea expects to end Burnley's interest in the competition forever.

The second goal came almost at the 45 minute when Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic headed a free kick against the crossbar from Mineiro.

In the 55 minutes Ivanovic put another header over the bar after Kalou and Malouda have combined to get the ball in the penalty area.

Kalou was thwarted by Jensen put his team when Drogba of the Ivory Coast-mate through on goal.

Burnley, sensing that they were still an opportunity, Martin Paterson replaced with Akinbiyi on the hour.

Drogba, the main threat to Burnley, in the opening half began to look for an isolated figure as the Blues settled for containment rather than a decisive second goal.

Chelsea of the frustration was underlined by Scolari in the next motion, which was replacing Drogba with Di Santo in the 68th minute.

However, Chelsea were stunned in 70 minutes.

Chris Eagles stormed a pass from Robbie Blake and when his shot was saved by Cudicini, substitute Akinbiyi pounced to equalize.

Di Santo lost two gilt-edged chances to restore Chelsea at the top as the game finally peter out in extra time.

However, the Chelsea of misery continued when an injury to Di Santo reduced to 10 men three minutes in the first period of added time.

Both parties failed to create a clear chance in the opening half but Akinbiyi brought a fine save from Cudicini with a clever header at minute 111.

Six minutes from time Chelsea defender Alex SCUFF shot in the bar from point blank range as the game lurched towards the penalty showdown.

The numbers were even in moments later when Caldwell was sent off for a second offense after ordering the freezing of Malouda.

However, that was the last event of note before the game went to penalties and Jensen became the hero of Burnley.

"Liverpool, Arsenal get wins in Premier League"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 07:14:00 +0000

Liverpool and Arsenal returned to winning ways Saturday to affirm their title credentials of the Premier League, while Hull lost their third match after an impressive start to his campaign debut in the top flight.

Robbie Keane scored his first two league goals since joining Liverpool in the offseason in a 3-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion.

Samir Nasri also had a double, leading Arsenal to a 2-1 victory over defending champion Manchester United and relieve the pressure on manager Arsene Wenger throwing a three-game winless streak in all competitions.

Liverpool leads the classification by three points ahead of Chelsea, which is at Blackburn on Sunday. United gunners in the past third.

Hull overcame Bolton 1-0 Matt Taylor in the 50 minute goal, while Portsmouth won for the first time since Harry Redknapp replaced Tony Adams two weeks ago. Jermain Defoe converted a 90th minute penalty to beat Sunderland 2-1.

Everton met with three goals in the last seven minutes to beat West Ham 3-1, and Wigan and Stoke played to a 0-0 draw.

Liverpool dominated West Brom, but took until the 34th to take the lead when Steven Gerrard went through the defense with a pass accuracy Keane, who shot a loft in advancing goalkeeper Scott Carson.

Carson was once again stranded on the edge of the area after Fabio Aurelio pass split the defense two minutes before the break, allowing Keane to return to the former Liverpool goalkeeper to score his second.

Alvaro Arbeloa curled in the third goal in the 90th

"Fans had a right to Boo, insists Gerrard"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 01:09:00 +0000

Steven Gerrard has bucker the trend of recent days with the argument of England fans had every right to Boo Ashley Cole during the 5-1 drubbing of the Republic of Kazakhstan on Saturday.

TomDulat / GettyImages
Steven Gerrard: Fans have the right to Boo
And it was a view echoed by West Ham defender Matthew Upson.
Cole was Jeera after his error gifted the visitors their consolation and their goal was attacked every time they touched the ball for the rest of the game.

The Football Association, coach Fabio Capello and stand-in captain Rio Ferdinand has publicly criticized at home all the followers of his actions, but now Liverpool midfielder Gerrard has explained that anyone paying their money has the right to make known their feelings. That said, I do not think that is needed.

When asked at a press conference this afternoon if the fans are entitled to Boo players, Gerrard said: "Of course.

"Any support, where you pay the money, he deserves to voice their opinion. But we need your support. If we are to succeed in the future, we need with us.

"It will not help Ashley, and it will not help the team, but the support was fantastic to us. They stayed with us throughout the game.

"He (Cole) is disappointed and the players are disappointed''said Gerrard.

Gerrard is confident the left-back the confidence of not being affected negatively by the fans reaction.

"You have to get on with it,''Gerrard continued." We have to take it like a man. Ashley a great character and the players are here to support him.''

England defender Matthew Upson believes the booing of Cole said the team together.

"It can be positive, which makes us pull together,''he said." We encouraged all the ash, it is unfortunate that it happened and everyone is going to make a mistake for England at some point, you pass, because behind you and hope that the next opportunity.

"It's one of those things and the team will be strong with it.''

The West Ham man defended the right of supporters to do whatever they wish and said: "It is their right. Nobody is asking them to come and clap for 90 minutes, we just ask for a little leniency when it happens.

"It's important for us to care about each other. They have their right to have a say and think what they want.

"It can affect a player's confidence that they do not react the right way. Ash knows who is going to deal with mental and hope that the next performance that can be done."

"It's natural for fans to expect a lot from his team, we are one of the strongest groups of players in the world, the stadium is fantastic game so it is going to be pressure and expectation.

"We ask people not to carry too far, but we are on track, it is only necessary to keep plugging away.''

Gerrard, meanwhile, believe that Belarus will be tough opposition

"They've had some great results, I remember that beating Holland recently,''he said." They were very unfortunate to lose in Ukraine, and that's a tough place to go.

"We are aware that it will be difficult, but there are more than confidence is high and we are ready. We're not getting carried, there is still a lot of obstacles to get over.

"We had a fantastic start. It's a difficult test, but we are convinced we can do that four out of four and enter the new year top of the group.''

"Champions League - Liverpool sweat on star duo"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 01:22:00 +0000

Liverpool are sweating on the fitness of key players Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres on Tuesday ahead of the Champions League encounter in Marseilles.

Gerrard managed 22 minutes of Saturday's confidence boosting 2-1 victory over Manchester United on his return from a groin operation.

But Spanish international Torres remained on the bench after having suffered a hamstring injury against Aston Villa on August 31.

Javier Mascherano is also a doubt after pulling a calf problem on Saturday at stake.

Liverpool is second in the Premier League and France to head held high after a manager Rafael Benitez saw his team record its first league victory over United in his fifth season in charge.

"Now we will go to Marseilles in a good mood," said Benitez on Saturday after winning.

"That was our best performance of the season and now feel we can go into a Champions League good heart and spirit."

Former European champions Marseille met Liverpool in the group stage last season, winning 1-0 at Anfield before being Thrash 4-0 at home.

"Sampdoria drew 1-1 with Inter Milan"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 22:48:00 +0000

Sampdoria rallies for 1-1 tie with Inter Mourinho in the Serie A debut

Marco Del Vecchio scored a second half equalizer Saturday to help draw 1-1 with Sampdoria and Inter Milan spoil José Mourinho's Serie A coaching debut.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been among the lead in 33 minutes in a shot from a tight angle that bounced off the post. However, Del Vecchio hit in a rebound, just a few feet from the finish line in the 68 th to salvage a point against the defending champion three times.

Mourinho, who won two Premier League titles with Chelsea, signed with Inter in June after the team fired Roberto Mancini despite the club to its third championship of Serie A. In its first official party last week, Inter defeated AS Roma in the Italian Supercup.

"I expected a tough match," said Mourinho. "We have lost control of the game in the second half. The Serie A season is a marathon and it is all right pointing this game. I'm not unhappy by the tie, but because they do not play well."

Inter Sampdoria pressed in every ball from the opening whistle, but the hosts also created several scoring opportunities before Del Vecchio finally broke in the second half. Sampdoria playmaker Antonio Cassano could have scored a winner, but not for controlling a long pass that have left one-on-one with Inter goalkeeper Julio Cesar.

"This is not a false start," said midfielder Amantino Mancini. "This was a hard game to come here with Sampdoria and pumped full stadium."

Midfielder Esteban Cambiasso played in defence because of the team's injury problems. Marco Materazzi returned after a long period, while several defenders still are recovering from injuries.

Also Saturday, Antonio Di Natale scored twice to help beat Udinese 3-1 Palermo.

Di Natale put Udinese ahead in the ninth by dribbling around a defender in the box before beating Palermo goalkeeper Marco Amelia. The forward made Italy 2-0 in 34 after taking a long pass and lobbing the ball over the head of Amelia.

Palermo midfielder Mark Bresciano pulled one back in the 69 th, but Gokhan Inler headed by a corner one minute later to seal the victory.

"Moyes backing to sign Moutinho"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 01:15:00 +0000

Everton defender Nuno Valente David Moyes hopes can Clinch signing his compatriot Portuguese Joao Moutinho of Lisbon Sp.

Caramels have already had an offer for the midfielder rejected by the Sporting, Nuno Valente, but trusts in Moya eventually get their man.

"The manager is talking with the president all the time," said Valente Everton's official website.

"I think staffing is short and it is important that we get some new players, but the important thing is that players who are a good sign and we will strengthen.

"We have players with quality. Everton is a team that already has quality and we must add to that. Moutinho, of course, is a good player and he is someone I know. He was a star at Euro 2008 in Portugal.

"He's strong, playing good football and driving his team forward. He is also a leader. If he was not, there would be no way that he would be the master of a great club like Sporting at the age of 21 years.

"If we spend so much money on a player like him, he was going to pay again in the coming years.

"I would like to see him here because he is Portuguese, but why we would want most is to see him here because he is a good player and we will improve."

"Ronaldinho, Robinho set for Vietnam friendly"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 14:48:00 +0000

Brazil's Olympic soccer team, with Ronaldinho and Robinho, will face Vietnam in a warming in Beijing for the Games, an official said Friday.

The friendly is scheduled for Hanoi's My Dinh stadium on August 1, said Tran Quoc Tuan, secretary general of the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF).

"This is good news for football fans and players in Vietnam," he told AFP.

"This is also a very rare opportunity to meet with renowned players from Brazil," said Tuan.

Ticket prices and team line-ups will be announced at the federation's official website, he said, adding that Ronaldinho and Robinho "are on the list of the 18 team members sent to VFF in Brazil."

Ronaldinho has just completed a 18.5 million euro move from Barcelona to AC Milan, while Robinho plays for Spanish giants Real Madrid.

The fixture is part of Brazil in preparation for Beijing to launch the August 8.

According to VN Express newspaper online, tickets will be sold at between 200000 dong (12 dollars) and 700000 dong.

"Fergie gives Ronaldo marching orders to return"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 14:55:00 +0000

Sir Alex Ferguson has ordered Cristiano Ronaldo to return to Manchester United in two weeks to end the ongoing tragedy on Ronaldo's dream move to Real Madrid, the Daily Mirror reported on Saturday.

Ferguson, who was furious at Ronaldo said that he agreed with Fifa Sepp Blatter, president of the Commission at this point that is being treated like a slave for which he was not allowed to leave United, Ronaldo wants to recover from ankle surgery in Under his watch and clear the air over Ronaldo's future at Old Trafford.

The Daily Mail also reported that Ferguson pulled out Saturday of a draft confrontation with Ronaldo in Lisbon. The meeting, scheduled for Sunday, would have been the first between the director and actor since the movement of Ronaldo to the Bernabeu became the hot topic during last month's European Championship.

"Lamps Livid Over Scolari Comments"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 22:51:00 +0000

Frank Lampard was reportedly furious with the new Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari's comments to the media yesterday declaring that the player was staying at the club ...

Only hours after Scolari inaugural press conference, the player's agent Steve Kutner issued a statement clarifying that the England international's future remains completely unresolved because of contract negotiations under way.

Internazionale president Massimo Moratti also rubbish Chelsea the official statement claiming that no financial offer was made and only an investigation of his club, insisting that both he and knew that an offer had been put on the table.

Later in the evening of the reports came to € 10 million bid for the midfielder, and the mirror now reports its disappointment with the very popular new leader Chelsea. "

The 30-year-old reportedly que se han ido al chief executive Peter Kenyon with a complaint, as earlier the same day the club refused to offer the five-year deal he was looking for - an agreement that will see him finish his career in club.

The objective of midfielder claimed he was being forced to leave the club after seven years of service - with only one remaining in his current contract - and the final offer from the Blues to 140000 pounds per week for four years cree que han been rejected by former West Ham United man.

Despite what Scolari told the press, Lampard was reported that in fact said: "Listen, I always dreamed to end my career at Chelsea, but not going to happen. We can not accept a contract".

"Rage no accident in this L.A. collision"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 23:08:00 +0000

David Beckham getting in Jesse Marsch's face is even more likely with Chivas and L.A. fighting for MLS's West lead Thursday.
The top of the Major League Soccer in the Western Conference resembles Los Angeles' rush hour in the middle of the season, with six of the seven teams separated by just three points. When the two clubs leading the jam square off on Thursday at night at the Home Depot Center, expect about 405-stylesheet rabies.

Because although the battle for first place in the West are added some extra spice to the confrontation between Chivas and the U.S. Los Angeles Galaxy (both on 21 points with a record 6-6-3), the prize of SoCal bragging rights really your blood boiling.

Both teams are radically different picture, financial clout and fan base. However, they share a strong mutual commitment displeasure that rearing its head every time you play and is actually a major positive impact for the league.

Local derbis are a basic element of all major soccer leagues, and they add color and flavor to the season. The Super Clasico is the only real city in the same derby in MLS, and how it has developed - and continues to do so - is welcome.

Of course, the limited history of the rivalry (Chivas MLS only joined in 2005) means that it is absurd to compare them with similar clashes in Manchester, Milan and Buenos Aires. However, the deep antipathy of the clubs share makes these games: compulsive.

Thursday's contest, which will be televised nationally by ESPN2, should not be different.

"Derbis the first games are always looking for when schedules leave," said Galaxy midfielder David Beckham, who has taken part in some of the world's largest intracity rivalry games during his time with Manchester United and Real Madrid.

"We know that it is important to play well against Chivas, because there are a lot of passion and a lot of spirit - and rightly so. - When you do reach against rivals you can see the rivalry that exists between players, between teams and among fans . "

LA has not forgotten the two hammerings Chivas 3-0 last season, bad losses pile further embarrassment to the already deplorable campaign. A 5-2 victory in April did little to the Galaxy sate your appetite for the success of their local enemies, but has given extra motivation for Chivas, which was enraged by Landon Donovan's coach antagonize preki while celebrating one of its three objectives.

Everything points to another fiery encounter. Chivas could not cope with the defensive with the Beckham / Donovan connection last time around and may try to exert greater physical presence. Beckham in particular does not like being pushed around, as evidenced by their furious charge towards Chivas midfielder Jesse Marsch after a rough tackle.

"We did well against them the last game, obviously," said Beckham. "I think the score flattered us because we played really well and deserved to win, but we have targets at the end of the game and Chivas did not play that bad in the day. We know it will be tough but hopefully we will strike again. "

Chivas striker Ante Razov played its part in stirring things this week, when he stressed his satisfaction with the attention it gets loud Galaxy supporters.

"That (booing) comes from fear," said Razov. "They must fear something to do with them. Do not boo bad players in general. They boo boys who fear could hurt your team."

"City's Hughes hopes to lure star"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 21:56:00 +0000

Mark Hughes remains determined to sign star Ronaldinho.

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes remains committed to attracting Ronaldinho Eastlands.

Discussions are ongoing between the club and the player's representatives after he was outside the burden of Barcelona.

City today declared its ambition to Hughes by completing the signing 21-year-old striker Jo, CSKA Moscow.

Now they want to tempt his colleagues from Brazil after splashing out an undisclosed club record fee, cree que se £ 19million.

Hughes claims Ronaldinho has given encouraging signs.

"It's a world star and whether these things will happen is likely to take a little time and we are patient," said the former Blackburn boss.

"In the discussions I had with the club I think is very positive about the idea of coming here.

"It's a process that is underway. It has not diminished in any way or form and there is no immediate deadline."

Ronaldinho has been linked with move to Chelsea under new manager Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Doubts have arisen about the playmaker of the form and fitness.

But Hughes remains adamant that Ronaldinho could give the platform they need to go back to his best.

The City boss said: "Perhaps in the past 18 months has not reached its potential.

"We are offering an opportunity to encourage him and let him return to the level it was in before.

"I think it might be an interesting idea to him. Perhaps what we are doing here what would attract more than go to a Champions League club.

"The decision is yours, of course, as I am sure that many offers. Whether he can see our vision is still to be seen."

Hughes, who will have the staffing to a training camp in Germany tomorrow, is ready to make further additions.

He said: "We are looking to improve the quality of the workforce. In the window that progresses I am sure that there will be players and leave to be replaced.

"It's an ongoing process and something that will continue until the end of the window.

"There are good quality and excellent players here. It's just one case, the balance of the workforce was the right one.

"We are very excited about what's ahead of us. Jo signature is only the first step."

Jo, capped once by Brazil, has agreed a four-year contract.

The state has at the point of making the move to Eastlands for several weeks and Hughes is the first signing since replacing Sven-Goran Eriksson.

During his spell with CSKA, which won the Russian league and cup double in 2006 and has Champions League pedigree having made numerous appearances in the competition for the Moscow club.

He said: "I decided to come to Manchester City because it is one of the clubs who showed more interest in me, although I had other offers too.

"After I spoke with the manager (Hughes) I was very pleased.

"I was told is a club Manchester City to move forward at this time. We can go there, that is our goal. I decided to come to Manchester City for that reason."

Jo revealed joint Spanish Valencia, the City of the main rivals of his signature.

He added: "The club showed interest was officially Valencia. I know the press there are other clubs who showed interest."

Meanwhile, Hughes is close to agreeing new deals to captain Richard Dunne and goalkeeper Joe Hart.

The Dunne said, without a hint of irony: "It's as good as done.

"It's a very important player for us. It's one of my priorities when I became a manager to keep it."

In Hart, added: "Joe is another that we want to stay. We hope to resolve their situation.

"These negotiations are ongoing but I think there is a willingness on both sides."

Hughes' comments came the same day that Barcelona sports director Txiki Begiristain admitted both Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto'o - also made available by the Catalan giants this summer - could end up staying at the club if not acceptable can be found.

Begiristain told reporters at the inauguration of Daniel Alves that "no news" on an agreement of the two players.

"We await concrete offers from other clubs so that we can negotiate. I understand that this is difficult because there are not many clubs in the world willing to pay these amounts."

"Pompey agree Crouch fee"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:42:00 +0000

Portsmouth have agreed a fee with Liverpool striker Peter Crouch and is ready for talks with the south coast club for a £ 10million move to Fratton Park.

Pompey boss Harry Redknapp has seen two previous bids for Crouch rejected by the Anfield club and has promised not to pay over the odds for the England striker.

However, the two clubs have now agreed a fee for a player who was scheduled to spend this summer after revealing his frustration at the lack of starting opportunities.

"We have reached a verbal agreement with Portsmouth and have given them permission to speak with Peter," confirmed a spokesman Reds.

Crouch spent one season at Portsmouth six years ago under Redknapp, before moving to Aston Villa, Southampton, and then the Reds in 2005.

The scored 42 goals in 135 games during his time on Merseyside, despite struggling to maintain a starting point in manager Rafael Benitez plans.

Crouch is a new way of seeing strike partnership with fellow England international Jermain Defoe at Fratton Park in next season if they agree personal terms at Fratton Park.

"Ronaldo likely staying at Manchester - Real Madrid boss"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 16:01:00 +0000

Striker Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo is likely to stay at Manchester United next season because the English champions are not willing to let him go, Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon said on Sunday.

"Ronaldo has said that he would like to play here, it's a dream, that would be very happy to come to Real Madrid but is a desire that the player can not be conducted without the agreement of Manchester," the online edition of sports daily Marca quoted him as saying.

"Manchester is that we want. Once you decide to sell him and communicate this, we can say that we are talking about a possible transfer. But as of today that is not happening," said Calderon.

"Theoretically we still have time, there are still two months until the end of August if Manchester in contact with Real Madrid and makes an offer," he added.

The most likely outcome "from today" is that "Cristiano Ronaldo will play for Manchester United next year," Calderon said.

Calderon and Manchester United chief executive David Gill held talks in Switzerland next week during the 23-year-old Spanish sports daily AS reported on Saturday.

The private talks will take place on Monday at the headquarters of the Uefa in Nyon on the sidelines of a broader meeting of European clubs, he said.

United on Friday moved to quell talk that his prize asset was about to establish a link with the Bernabeu club, saying that the rumours were "totally absurd and totally laughable. Cristiano Ronaldo is not for sale".

Manchester United have said repeatedly that the player - whose contract runs until 2012 - is certainly not for sale.

Last month, the club informed of nine real-time European champions to try to disconcert Ronaldo, but the Fife found no Spaniards had breached regulations.

Ronaldo is scheduled to undergo an ankle operation next week and is not scheduled to join the club in his pre-season tour of South Africa, which begins on July 18.

Ronaldo going nowhere say United

Manchester United said on Friday recent reports say extreme stars Cristiano Ronaldo was about to move to Spanish giants Real Madrid were "totally absurd" and insisted the Portugal international was not for sale.

Ronaldo, a boyhood fan Royal, has been related to the transfer to the Spanish capital since the end of last season even though they scored a very impressive 42 goals in all competitions last term as United won both the Premier League and Champions League trophies.

The 23-year-old could miss the start of next season if they need surgery on an ankle injury.

In the meantime, the U.S. insisted on their prize asset would not be joining Real in the coming days. "It is totally absurd and totally laughable. Cristiano Ronaldo is not for sale," said a spokesman for the club.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has become increasingly frustrated by the Royal very public courtship of Ronaldo, whose contract at Old Trafford until 2012. And that led United to report the Bernabeu club to Fifa, but the world governing body have taken no action against Real.

Ronaldo were to leave Old Trafford is unlikely to deviate from a rate much less than 70 million pounds.

United leave for their tour of South Africa on July 18, but Ronaldo was not scheduled to be a member of staff for pre-season trip.

"Ronaldo likely to miss out for start of Man U's Premier League season"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 22:32:00 +0000

Cristiano Ronaldo is likely to miss the start of the season with Manchester United due to an ankle surgery.

The end Portugal is ready to be operated on next week after playing with pain during the past two months across the English season and the Championship of Europe. The Premier League season begins in mid-August.

Despite talk of a transfer to Real Madrid, the 23-year-old Ronaldo seems likely to stay with United, which won the Premier League and Champions League last season. Ronaldo has not submitted a transfer request.

"Nasri close to Arsenal move"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 19:13:00 +0000

Samir Nasri France international is only ten days to join Arsenal, according to his agent.

The 20-year-old Marseille star claimed last month that it had signed an agreement to sign the Gunners only by his representative, Jean-Pierre Bernes, to deny the transfer had been completed.

The highly valued child is expected to move to the United Arab Emirates Stadium for a fee of around £ 15million.

But after being in limbo for two weeks, Nasri is now cree be close to sealing his transfer to north London Club.

"He is in his holidays," revealed Bernes. "It (the agreement) will take place when back in about ten days."

Nasri, who has been a long-term goal of Gunners manager Arsène Wenger, made two substitute appearances for France against Italy and Romania at Euro 2008, as Les Bleus not for the progress of the group stage.

"Report: Glazers give Madrid green light for Ronaldo"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:49:00 +0000

The Glazer family is willing to do business with Real Madrid and accept its mega-bid for Cristiano Ronaldo after lengthy talks with Manchester United directors, according to a report in the Spanish sports daily AS.

After weeks of promotion of the Portuguese star Mark switch increasingly problematic, the strongest Madrid-paper has now tilted by Wade with a statement that an agreement will be implemented.

While acknowledging that Sir Alex Ferguson will continue to strongly oppose the transfer, the owners of the Red Devils are tempted, according to the report.

It was reported several weeks ago that Madrid is considering circumventing the vociferante Scottish manager to try to tempt the Glazers, and can work.

After a meeting with United chief executive David Gill, the club heads are even more convinced that the cash bid is worth more than the player himself.

Recent reports that Ronaldo does not require surgery have declined cree que el deseo de Madrid, because as reported on Wednesday the club could not afford to lose him for signature.

Some figures in the Bernabeu doubt within the meaning of splashing out so much money when the club's debts are already supposed to be neighbors of 630 million dollars, but the president Ramon Calderon has much interest in the press.

The above figures of $ 140 million has been mentioned, but as now stated that Madrid will look to carry less than $ 110 million in order to maintain a certain restraint.

"Hughes remains hopeful of trying to Ronaldinho"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 01:25:00 +0000

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes remains committed to attracting Ronaldinho Eastlands.

Discussions are ongoing between the club and representatives of the player after he was outside the burden of Barcelona.

City have expressed their ambition to Hughes by completing the signing 21-year-old striker Jo, CSKA Moscow.

Now they want to tempt his colleagues from Brazil after splashing out an undisclosed club record fee, cree que se £ 19million.

Hughes claims Ronaldinho has given encouraging signs.

'The world is a star and if these things will happen is likely to take a little time and we are patient,' said the former Blackburn Rovers boss.

"In the discussions I had with the club I think is very positive about the idea of coming here.

"It's a process that is underway. It has not diminished in any way or form and there is no immediate term '.

Ronaldinho has been linked with move to Chelsea under new manager Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Doubts have arisen about the playmaker of the form and fitness.

But Hughes remains adamant that Ronaldinho could give the platform they need to go back to his best.

The City boss said: 'Maybe in the past 18 months has not reached its potential.

'We are offering an opportunity to encourage him and let him return to the level it was in before.

"I think it might be an interesting idea to him. Perhaps what we are doing here what would attract more than go to a Champions League club.

"The decision is yours, of course, as I am sure that many offers. If you can see our vision remains to be seen '.

Hughes, who will have the staffing to a training camp in Germany tomorrow, is ready to make further additions.

He said: 'We are looking to improve the quality of the workforce. As the window progresses I am sure that there will be players and leave to be replaced.

'It's an ongoing process and something that will continue until the end of the window.

'There are good quality and excellent players. It's just one case, the balance of the workforce was the right one.

"We are very excited about what's ahead of us. Jo signature is only the first step."

Jo, capped once by Brazil, has agreed a four-year contract.

The state has at the point of making the move to Eastlands for several weeks and Hughes is the first signing since replacing Sven-Goran Eriksson.

During his spell with CSKA, which won the Russian league and cup double in 2006, with Champions League pedigree having made numerous appearances in the competition for the Moscow club.

He said: 'I have decided to come to Manchester City because it is one of the clubs who showed more interest in me, although I had other offers too.

"After I spoke with the manager (Hughes) I was very pleased.

"I was told Manchester City is a club to move forward at this time. We can go there, that is our goal. I decided to come to Manchester City for that reason."

Jo revealed joint Spanish Valencia, the City of the main rivals of his signature.

He added: 'The club showed interest was officially Valencia. I know from the press there are other clubs who showed interest. "

Meanwhile, Hughes is close to agreeing new deals to captain Richard Dunne and goalkeeper Joe Hart.

The Dunne said, without a hint of irony: "It is as good as done.

'He is a very important player for us. It is one of my priorities when I became a manager to keep. "

In Hart, added: "John is another who want to stay. We hope to resolve their situation.

"These negotiations are ongoing but I think there is a willingness on both sides."

Hughes' comments came the same day that Barcelona sports director Txiki Begiristain admitted both Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto'o - also made available by the Catalan giants this summer - could end up staying at the club if not acceptable can be found.

Begiristain told reporters at the inauguration of Daniel Alves that "no news" on an agreement of the two players.

"We await concrete offers from other clubs so that we can negotiate. I understand that this is difficult because there are not many clubs in the world willing to pay these amounts.

"Spain leaps to top of FIFA rankings, U.S. falls to 30th"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 23:01:00 +0000

Spain jumped to the top of the monthly Fifa rankings for the first time after their triumph in the European Championship with Brazil and Argentina, both the drop in the first three.

The United States maintains its fall from the highest echelons of world football, falling nine places to 30, its lowest ranking since he was 30th in March 2007. The Americans were fourth in April 2006.

The teams are ranked based on points awarded for performances in matches in the past four years.

Spain 1-0 victory over Germany on Sunday in the Euro 2008 final which rose three places, making it the sixth team - along with France, Germany, Brazil, Italy and Argentina - to claim the top spot since the ranking began 15 years ago. The Spaniards have 1,557 points

Italy deadline for the quarter was enough to push it to a point at second place with 1404 points, while Germany climbed two places to third with 1364.

Brazil fell to fourth place in the list published on Wednesday, the first time since November 1993 that the five-time champions of the World Cup have been outside the first three.

The squadron of americas encountered from its previous ranking of 21, accumulating 780 points in the last survey. Places that the U.S. team behind countries like Israel (21 meetings), Ivory Coast (28 meetings) and Paraguay (25 meetings).

"Spain triumph"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 06:58:00 +0000

Spain claimed his first major title for 44 years after winning Euro 2008 with a 1-0 victory over Germany.

Fernando Torres scored the only goal of the game when chipped over Jens Lehmann but the 1-0 scoreline hardly reflect the true nature of a contest in which Spain were in complete control throughout.

Germany simply had no answer to the oppression exercised in the center of the field by the likes of Xavi, Iniesta, Fabregas, Silva and Senna, who combined to provide a measure of finesse and agility that neither side in the tournament could match . With the defensive security underpinned by reliable Casillas and a potent front line composed of Torres and Villa, Luis Aragno coach has done what many of his predecessors had failed to achieve: namely, a mixture of a group of prominent individuals into a formidable team . Now steps down, mission accomplished.

Spain started the game patient in his possession but it was Germany who led the initial threat, particularly by the left flank, where Lukas Podolski and Philip Lahm is combined well and it causes problems for Sergio Ramos.

The game's first chance fell to Klose who pounce on a step wandering Sergio Ramos but overran the ball under pressure from Carlos Puyol. Ballack, who had been a fitness doubt right until kick-off, broke left and cut inside Puyol before delivering a dangerous cross into the penalty area.

Although not rattled, Spain took time to get their intricate passing game going, but when they finally found their rhythm, almost opened the scoring. In 14 minutes, Iniesta sailed in a wonderful pass from Xavi and crossed into the box where the reverse Per Mertesacker forced goalkeeper Jens Lehmann into a sharp reaction save. It was the closest it had reached a goal and highlighted the growing threat of Spaniards.

Another proof of the growing dominance Spanish came midway through the half when Sergio Ramos' cross was met by a firm downward header from Fernando Torres in the post.

As the half wore on, Germany were looking increasingly vulnerable and that there was a big surprise when Spain finally achieved the breakthrough. Xavi was the architect of the goal, but the pace and strength Torres that ultimately undid Germany. Collecting a pass measured the Barcelona midfielder, Torres flick the ball beyond Lahm Dinka and a delicate chip over Lehmann into the far corner of the net.

Ballack, who was running repair a cut eye, saw his frustration get the better of him when he squared up Puyol and received a reserve for its problems. With his most influential player struggling to have any impact, rudder and Germany are looking devoid of ideas.

Joachim Low responded to the growing crisis of replacing Philip Lahm with Marcell Jansen. This is a like for like replacement and it is difficult to see how the introduction of another defender could change the shape of the game.

However, Germany are nothing if not tenacious and a brief spell after the interval finally began to take the game to their opponents. Schweinsteiger, who had been anonymous in the first half, began to make some races that threaten the right flank, although his delivery remains patchy. Their best chance fell to Ballack to volley just wide after Puyol had given the ball away near his own corner flag.

Spain were lucky to still have eleven men on the pitch when David Villa headbutted Lukas Podolski. The incident was not spotted by the referee, much to the dismay of the German side. Soon after Aragones wisely removed Silva.

Aragones responded to the growing threat of taking off Cesc Fabregas and lead to more defensive-minded Xabi Alonso. If the switch is intended to regulate the ship worked, but more importantly also the improvement of Spain as a joint attack. A barrage of opportunities fell their way in a frantic spell midway through the half, with Sergio Ramos and Iniesta with what a fine save from Lehmann.

As Germany pressed forward in search of a tie, became more vulnerable to rapid counter-attack of the Spaniards. In fact, if a second objective is reaching Spain seemed much more likely to score, earrings and Marcos Senna was only inches away from sealing victory after another sweeping move from Aragones'.

The game ended with Germany struggling to clear the ball outside their own half. They spent a force that seems unable to muster the necessary self-belief to challenge the authority of Spain. It has been this way for much of the game as men in red finally banished his international reputation as the football great underachievers.

However, for some derives from finishing the victors the margin would have been much higher. Sometimes, Spain were playing with their opponents, and only a propensity to develop along the front of goal denied the most emphatic victory of his overall superiority deserved.

Germany 0-1 Spain
Top Scorers: Fernando Torres 33

Half: 0-1

Attendance: 51,428

Teams:
Germany: 1-Jens Lehmann, 3-Arne Friedrich, 17-Per Mertesacker, 21-Christoph Metzelder, 16-Philipp Lahm (2-Marcell Jansen 46), 7-Bastian Schweinsteiger, 8-Torsten Frings, 13-Michael Ballack, 15 -- Thomas Hitzlsperger (22-Kevin Kuranyi 58), 20-Lukas Podolski, 11-Miroslav Klose (9-Mario Gomez 79)

Spain: 1-Iker Casillas, 15-Sergio Ramos, 5-Carles Puyol, 4-Carlos Marchena, Joan Capdevila 11-, 19-Marcos Senna, 6-Andres Iniesta, 8-Xavi, 10-Cesc Fabregas (14-Xabi Alonso 63), 21-David Silva (12 Santi Cazorla 66), 9-Fernando Torres (17-Daniel Giza 78)

Referee: Roberto Rosetti (Italy)

"Euro 2008 final preview - Germany v Spain"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 06:47:00 +0000

After a captivating tournament which has been elevated to the quality and refreshing and low in the dispute, tonight sees the culmination of a glorious Euro 2008 with a final assembly in Vienna between two of soccer's most powerful nations.

Despite the undoubted individual excitements offered by the previous group and knockout stages, nothing can match the anticipation aroused by this encounter weather. For both teams and their players and what a privilege it offers a rare opportunity to write themselves in the folklore of their respective nations and in the annals of football history.

On paper the tie offers an intriguing clash of styles, ideologies and stereotypes: the pace, talent, enthusiasm and passion of the Spaniards against the sand, efficiency, determination and traditional cruelty of the Germans. We have a young team Spanish, desperate to redress a generations-old national discrepancy in the balance between the undoubted ability and winning titles, which have hardly been sufficient. And we have a German side, eager to demonstrate its capability to continue its tradition of sporting nation of triumph when we have the majority against a more fashionable, dashing and critically acclaimed opponent - an event that has already happened several Sometimes too often in the eyes of the romantic neutral.

There is, however, a shadow hangs over the preparations due to the possible absence through injury of two of the tournaments biggest stars. Spain David Villa forward, top scorer of the finals so far, is struggling with the thigh injury he picked up last week in 3-0 semi-final victory over Russia, while Germany captain Michael Ballack is also a doubt with a calf strain. Of the two is that Villa is worth the most doubtful to play, but Ballack injury could also rule him yet. It would be a bitter disappointment if the end was stolen from these two brilliant players,

Strike devastating
The impression is that the absence of Ballack would be the most devastating blow to his team the chance of success, despite the objectives of the Villa. The Chelsea midfielder has been crucial to his side both on and off the pitch this summer, the brilliant performance in the quarter-final victory against Portugal and providing real leadership in the aftermath of the group stage of shock defeat of Croatia. In a team containing a mixture of young and promising solid experience is the established world-class player at the peak of his career. The coach Joachim Low must be praying that the positive noises coming out of the German chamber of treatment are well founded.

Germany were the pre-tournament favourites and the selection of many knowledgeable pundits before the final, but have been a model of inconsistency so far. Three good results against Poland, Austria and Portugal have been tempered by sad showing in their other two games. They paid the price for not turning in the intermediate group match against Croatia in the form of a well-deserved defeat, while in the semi-final against Turkey were a few very fortunate to win.

Much will depend, therefore, that Germany will become Vienna tonight. Those with decent memories will allude to the fact that this German team, like those of past generations, seem to thrive when underdogs, which undoubtedly are tonight, despite its own skinny pre-tournament odds.

After his fallibility was exposed in the group stages, no one expected the defeat to Portugal in the quarter-finals, but they did, and convincingly. Germany, and his predecessor as West Germany, have a history of upsetting the form book in big tournaments - look no further than the end of 1954 and 1974 World Cup tests. Both parties face the teams considered by the masses to be the legitimate winners, the proponents of football at its most dazzling style and form - and in both matches, against all odds, Germany emerged with the spoils. Tonight they face a similar dilemma in the form of a side that Spain had all of us to reach the superlatives after a scintillating second half performance against Russia last week in the semi-final.

Caution and Paranioa
However, if the history book offers comfort to Germany for the Spanish fans are offered only prudence and paranoia. While the Germans are looking to expand its relevance to the Spanish will rip it is composed.

It has been well documented that the Spanish football has produced 25 winners of European club soccer competition first, yet has produced one national team, some 44 years ago, capable of winning a major trophy. Among Spain have been at one another grand finale, which lost to hosts France to 84 euros. To illustrate the historical difference between the two sides, this will be the thirteenth and final principal Germany, if victorious, his seventh title.

However, if the outbreak is left to only tonight, to a single football game on paper, then is German fans surely will be the wiser. This morning the major newspapers in Europe are full of comparisons between the two formations, with almost all of them give Spain a significant advantage in all positions. It's easy to see why.

In goal, Iker Casillas of Spain has been one of the stars of the tournament shifts, while his counterpart, Jens Lehmann, has looked beyond his best in 38 years of age.

Spain is defending combination of athletics, in the form of Sergio Ramos, strength and determination in the form of centre halves Puyol and Marchena, and unfussy, the position of collateral in the form of the left side, Joan Capdevila. On the side, possibly, the Germans are a group match for Spain, but the German association of central defender Mertesacker and Metzelder notoriously lacking pace and mobility. Their job tonight could be made easier by the absence of Villa Quicksilver, but the pace and power of Fernando Torres is likely to cause them a lot of problems. It is unlikely to be intimidated by the German pair, who compensate for their lack of pace with the size and strength.

Both teams are likely to start with a top forward, Torres with Spain and Germany with Miroslav Klose. Both players are first class, with Torres comes from a superb debut season in the English Premier League and a scorer Klose tested in more than one of the major tournaments in the past. Torres is undoubtedly the most industrious and versatile of the two, and he will throw in positions of great regularity to offer a way out and give space for Spain interchangeable attacking midfielders to exploit. With Lukas Podolski and Bastian Schweinsteiger to the Germans that offer greater width midfield enjoying Spain, Klose will play their normal game inhalation opportunities in and around the penalty area.

It is at the center of the field that Spain has won the majority of people's hearts, with the duo Barcelona Xavi and Iniesta effort complemented by Valencia David Villa. All three are gifted technically, blessed with great vision and offer a threat Goalscoring, and all are also more hard work that they are given credit. Behind them sits Villarreal's Marcos Senna, a contender for the unsung but most effective player throughout the competition, the insurance policy that allows the three most advanced midfielders to express opposition half.

In the likely absence of Villa, Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas is likely to resume its role as a second striker behind Torres filled with such devastating effect in the second half of the semi-final. Despite starting only two games in his name is most people list as the star of the tournament so far, a turnover that could very well continue to cement a berth tonight from one of the biggest stages of all.

Therefore, much depends on the ability Ballack and his presence, or not, in the German midfield. Torsten Frings is a great companion to the captain and he will have to be at his best in the holding role to nullify the threat of Fabregas. The other midfielders faces the biggest game of his career so far. Podolski, a converted striker, has been effective but inconsistent in the left wing, with the same analysis applies to Schweinsteiger and Thomas Hitzlsperger. Of the three of them can be Schweinsteiger assume that most of the responsibility if Ballack has not made the starting signal. Only time will tell if his young shoulders are broad enough to carry him and the rest of his team.

"No one remembers the finalists"
"I've told my players that no one remembers the finalists," Spain coach Luis Aragones told media on Friday.

Aragones, who will be 70 next month, was celebrating the move to Madrid athletics as a striker in the summer of 1964 when Spain won the past a major title. He is better equipped than most for putting into context of Spain shortage of success, and you're eligible if a man who has witnessed all the ups and downs in the Spanish football since his last title leads them to glory tonight.

"We face a Germany side who are very good and we can cause problems. They do not play a game as fluid but we are very good in the counterattack. We must also ensure them a set of pieces, but we will be ready. We will give our people something to celebrate after all this time in the desert. "

Germany coach Joachim Low is realistic about the threat posed by the Spanish midfielders, and acknowledges that his team are underdogs - something he can disconcert cree Spain. He emerged half-Jürgen Klinsmann's predecessor in the shadow of taking his team to the finals, and hope to leave behind him lifting the trophy permanently.

"Spain has been the best and most consistent in this team," said on Saturday.

"They seem to have no weaknesses and most of its players are accustomed to playing in the Champions League under pressure. We have not been at a high level permanently, but have shown signs of our class. Now we are in the final pressure is shut down. Spain is expected to win and we can enjoy more of them - this could work in our favor. "

"Criticism inspired Spain - Aragones"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 20:42:00 +0000

Luis Aragones said that Spain had been inspired by their desire to confound the critics at Euro 2008.

The Spaniards easily beat Russia 3-0 on Thursday to reach her first Sunday in the finals, where they will face Germany.

Coach Aragones said: "Criticism has taught me a lot, except when I was insulted. I have been stimulated and encouraged me to do things better.

"When we arrived at the tournament we realized we had a good team and we can go far.

"We've had some difficult moments but we have always believed in ourselves. We have a great team.''

Spain outplayed Russia in the second half in Vienna, although Aragones is aware that Germany is a challenge harder.

"We are not doing very well in the first half against Russia, but in the second half we were able to play with more freedom and rediscover our game," he said.

"We are at the end and the opponent is Germany. It's a hell of a task."

With striker David Villa set to miss the finals due to a thigh injury, Cesc Fabregas is expected to start the game.

"With another midfielder Cesc we have had and it is difficult to control," said Aragones.

"I know how well they can perform, is a great player, like others in our squad.

"Cesc is 21, he and other players have gained experience you might have a player older.

Midfielder Fabregas added: "There are always doubts. Nobody expected that we would be where we are now."

"Spain hopes that they can cope without Villa"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 23:05:00 +0000

Spain hopes to be able to cope with the absence of leading striker David Villa on Sunday for the Euro 2008 final against Germany in Vienna.

The 26-year-old who is the top scorer in the tournament with four goals, was forced out late in the first half of Thursday's 3-0 semi-final victory over Russia with a thigh muscle injury. You will almost certainly miss the finals.

The team doctor told the official press in Spain on Friday that tests carried out at a hospital in Vienna showed the striker had suffered a minor injury to the muscle.

The players remained upbeat about the chances of winning side of the first trophy in 44 years despite Villa likely absence.

"It's going to be difficult for him to be fit for the finals', midfielder Xabi Alonso told reporters after a training session recovery in Vienna.

'Having a strain on his hamstring and probably will not be available. Whoever is playing I think we have different options ... and have enough courage to have a good system and will not be a problem for us. "

Fellow midfielder Santi Cazorla according to Alonso.

'You can cope with anything and we have great players in every position and whoever plays will do their job well and hope that does not affect us,' she said.

"We must keep faith with the same philosophy of football that we have shown so far. We hope to maintain the level to the end as champions'.

Alonso said that one of the most important factors in the success of Spain was a strong team spirit, because the bid to repeat their success of the 1964 European championship - its only major trophy.

'Of course we do not know how it worked 44 years ago, "he told journalists.

'But having been here a month with the boys share a lot of time, the group has been fantastic and we have a great atmosphere in the dressing room and that is one of the keys to success at this time. "

"Russia 0-3 Spain"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 09:44:00 +0000

Spain produced a wonderful second half display to defeat Russia 3-0 and earn a place in the finals of Euro 2008.

After a first half goals, Spain attacked across Xavi, Danny Giza and David Silva to overwhelm a Russian side that struggled to compete with the fluid movement and slick passing of Luis Aragones'.

The margin of victory was the same as Spain had succeeded in their opening group match win over Russia, but in many ways was a more impressive performance against a team that has evolved into genuine contenders in the course Tournament.

The result means that arrived in Spain have reached the end of a big tournament for the first time since 1984, and tonight shows that the fantasy that their chances of ending their 48 year drought of trophies.

Spain, which show no harmful effects of the exhausting 120 minutes of football that endured against Italy in the quarterfinals, were the first to settle. Russia, for its part, perhaps wary of suffering a recurrence of that drubbing, were considerably less adventurous than it had been in his victory over Holland.

It took only six minutes to Aragones's side to create their first decent opening when David Villa Torres found at the edge of the six-yard box, but the Liverpool striker could not get any power into his shot and Igor Akinfeev cleared with his feet.

Villa Akinfeev to test himself when cutting infield from the left before leaving to fly with a shot that goalkeeper Russian Palmer away from a corner.

Arshavin, of whom much was expected after his impressive displays in the last two games, are struggling to impose himself in the game and will convey to his fellow Roman Pavlyuchenko posed a greater threat in the first half. The striker was set up by Yuri Zhirkov, but his curling left foot shot sailed just wide of the post.

Spain suffered a blow on 34 minutes when David Villa was forced to leave the field through injury. The leading scorer in the competition seemed to jar his leg after a long range free-kick. Cesc Fabregas was brought in place of Villa, but its introduction was a need for a change of formation, with Spain and the adoption of a 4-5-1 set-up.

As half-time had come little to choose between two evenly matched sides. Spain had shadow that sometimes, but Russia is playing its part in a tactical encounter intriguing. The opportunities were at a premium, but there was much to admire and none of infertility that has hit Spain in the quarter-finals with Italy stagnation.

Five minutes after the break Spain were ahead. It is a goal created and completed in Barcelona with Iniesta cut infield before crossing for Xavi to volley past Akinfeev from close range.

The goal boosted by the Spanish and within two minutes that could have doubled their advantage when Torres was Xavi received a cross only to shoot. The striker squandered more chances to extend Spain to the head and was eventually replaced by Danny Giza.

Guus Hiddink rang the changes in Russia by introducing Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Dmitri Sychev, but with anonymity throughout Arshavin, substitutes are unable to make any impact on proceedings. Perhaps distracted by the praise from his luxurious way in recent days, Zenit St Petersburg playmaker was removed from the game tonight, and without him, Russia simply does not work after the break.

It was the substitute Giza that Russia finally ended the hopes of a return when they picked up a beautiful weighted chip Fabregas and finished coolly past the promotion of Akinfeev.

Fabregas, a growing influence on the game, was very active in Spain's third goal when he sailed to the left touchline and set up David Silva, who took a touch before calmly stroking the ball past Akinfeev.

Thus, Spain, the perennial underachievers have finally come good. They face a battle scars from Germany at the end of Sunday, but it produces enough in these results indicating that the game will start as favourites.

Spain 0-3 Russia

Annotation: Xavi 50, Daniel Giza 73, David Silva 82

Half: 0-0

Teams:
Russia: 1-Igor Akinfeyev, 22-Alexander Anyukov, 2-Vasily Berezutsky, Sergei Ignashevich 4, 18 Yuri Zhirkov, 17-Konstantin Zyryanov, 11-Sergei Semak, 20-Igor Semshov (15 Diniyar Bilyaletdinov 56), 9 - Ivan Saenko (21-Dmitry Sychev 57), 10-Andrei Arshavin, 19-Roman Pavlyuchenko.

Spain: 1-Iker Casillas, 15-Sergio Ramos, 5-Carles Puyol, 4-Carlos Marchena, Joan Capdevila 11-, 19-Marcos Senna, 6-Andres Iniesta, 8-Xavi (14-Xabi Alonso 69), 21 -- -- David Silva, 7-David Villa (10-Cesc Fabregas 35), 9-Fernando Torres (17-Daniel Giza 69)

Referee: Frank De Bleeckere (Belgium)

"Momentum with Russia against faltering Spain"

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 10:23:00 +0000

Vienna, June 25 (Reuters) - Spain hammered Russia 4-1 in the group stage of Euro 2008, but must be a very different game when they meet again on Thursday, the semi-final after their fortunes were transformed by return of Andrei Arshavin.

Spain won the first clash on June 10 thanks to enterprising attack, loose Russian and defending a hat-trick from David Villa, but is that the losers now have the momentum to their side.

With each game, accumulation of Spain has become its slower and less dangerous attacks. They hardly threatened their goals in the quarter-finals with Italy which won in penalties.

However, Russia has ido in the opposite direction of tightening up on the back and surfing a wave of attacks that culminated improvement as a whole deserved and very entertaining 3-1 victory over Holland in their quarter-finals.

Suddenly, it seems Innsbruck long ago.

"If we think that Russia will be the same as the opening match that will be very wrong ', warned Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas.

The progress Russia has much to do with the efforts of playmaker Arshavin, who was suspended for the first two games, and striker Roman Pavlyuchenko, who has rediscovered the form that played such a key element in his country by the end.

Arshavin was outstanding in the 2-0 group win in Sweden and again against the Dutch, where his direct running, great ball control and vision passing tore two holes in the defenses.

Three goals from Pavlyuchenko has regained its appetite for the fight lightweight and the central Spanish will be at the top of their game to maintain control over it.

Free High-Performance and passing midfielders Konstantin Zyryanov and Igor Semshov, along with the virtual wing-backs Alexander Anyukov and Yuri Zhirkov, adding more menace.

"The way we play, with expertise and talent, is always happy to see that, 'said the source of inspiration Russia Dutch coach Guus Hiddink.

Hiddink's major concern is the absence of suspended central Denis Kolodin, who helped reorganize the defense in a unit that has only granted a new target after the defeat Spain.

Vasily Berezutsky is likely to replace him and, along with Sergei Ignashevich must maintain constant shackles at Villa and Fernando Torres to keep Spain at arm's length.

After showing their entrepreneurs in the opener of Spain have slowed his midfield to play the point where Italy happily sat with eight men behind the ball patiently watching short step that was ordered desperately, but lacked penetration.

Only when reaching Fabregas, usually after an hour, there appears to be no joy and his coach Luis Aragones knows that it must find new ways to imperil if they are to progress.

"It will be difficult to surprise Hiddink, but we will try, 'she said.