Tag: football

Morocco and Spain divided over who should host 2030 World Cup final

wide angle view of football stadium Estadio Centenario
Soccer Football – World Cup – Estadio Centenario, Montevideo, Uruguay – October 4, 2023 General view inside Estadio Centenario after it was announced that it will host the opening matches of the Morocco, Portugal and Spain World Cup in 2030 to mark the tournament’s centenary hosted for the first time in the stadium in 1930…. Acquire Licensing Rights

A day after Morocco and Spain were nominated as joint hosts of the 2030 World Cup – along with Portugal – there were signs of friction, with both countries laying claim to being the venue for the final.

Spain’s Sports Minister Miquel Iceta on Thursday on Onda Cero radio said that although “you can’t count your chickens before they hatch”, he expected the final to be held in Spain.

But Fouzi Lekjaa, head of Morocco’s football federation, said that the goal was for the final to be in Casablanca.

He hoped to see the country’s efforts “crowned – god willing – with celebrations in Casablanca stadium at a historic final,” he said on Radio Mars.

In a surprise announcement a year earlier than planned, FIFA allocated the 2030 World Cup to Morocco, Spain and Portugal on Wednesday and said Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay will host three matches to mark the tournament’s centenary.

Argentina also weighed in, with government officials and the local football federation on Thursday saying the country would “go for more” games than the single opening match it has been allocated.

Relations between Spain and Morocco have for decades been marked by disputes over migration and territory.

There have been regular diplomatic crises over Spain’s enclaves in Africa and the arrival of thousands of illegal migrants in Spain each year through Morocco.

Ties improved last year after Madrid moved closer to Morocco’s policy on Western Sahara, a disputed territory that Rabat claims as its own but where the Algeria-backed Polisario Front is seeking independence.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/spain-will-likely-host-2030-world-cup-final-minister-says-2023-10-05/

FIFA World Cup to be hosted in six countries across three continents in 2030

“The Spain-Portugal-Morocco bid is the only candidate”, FIFA says, confirming that Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina will get an opening match each.

Lionel Messi celebrating with winner trophy in hand.
Argentina’s Lionel Messi celebrates holding the World Cup after victory in the final in Qatar in 2022. Pic: AP

The 2030 men’s FIFA World Cup is set to be spread across six countries on three continents, world football’s governing body has said.

In Europe, Spain and Portugal, will be the main co-hosts, along with Morocco in North Africa, as first revealed by Sky News.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement: “In 2030, we will have a unique global footprint, three continents – Africa, Europe and South America – six countries – Argentina, Morocco, Paraguay, Portugal, Spain and Uruguay – welcoming and uniting the world while celebrating together the beautiful game, the centenary and the FIFA World Cup.”

Earlier, the FIFA council, which has been discussing a plan to combine rival bids, said the Spain-Portugal-Morocco bid “is the only candidate”, confirming “three South American countries will host games.”

Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina will get an opening match each to mark 100 years since the first World Cup took place in Uruguay and was won by the hosts.

Argentina were runners-up in the tournament, while Paraguay is recognised as the traditional home of CONMEBOL.

The first game of the tournament will take place in the Uruguayan capital, Montevideo, the city which hosted the first World Cup finals match 93 years ago.

Matches in Argentina and Paraguay will follow, before the rest of the 48-team tournament moves to North Africa and Europe.

The proposal, backed by UEFA, the Confederation of African Football and South American confederation CONMEBOL, was accepted by the FIFA council at a meeting on Wednesday.

It now needs to be approved by FIFA’s congress.

The scandal surrounding the conduct of former Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales at the final of the Women’s World Cup has not prevented Spain being lined up to host its second finals, after it staged its first alone in 1982.

Rubiales remains the subject of ongoing FIFA disciplinary proceedings.

Source: https://news.sky.com/story/fifa-2030-world-cup-sky-news-understands-countries-in-three-continents-will-host-to-mark-100-years-since-first-tournament-12976650

Soccer player Da’vian Kimbrough makes historic debut at age 13

Da’vian Kimbrough holds up his jersey after signing a contract with the Sacramento Republic.
Paul Kitagaki Jr./The Sacramento Bee/AP/File

Soccer player Da’vian Kimbrough made his debut for the Sacramento Republic on Sunday at the age of 13, marking a historic moment for US sports.

Kimbrough was brought on as a substitute in the 87th minute of Sacramento’s 2-0 victory against Las Vegas Lights, making him the youngest professional athlete in American team sports. The match was played in front of a capacity crowd at Heart Health Park, according to the Sacramento Republic website.

Aged 13 years, seven months, and 13 days, Kimbrough also became the youngest professional soccer player to make their debut in a competitive match.

The previous record was held by Axel Kei who made his debut aged 13 months, nine months, and nine days on October 8, 2021 for the Real Monarchs against Colorado Springs Switchbacks.

The record for the youngest professional athlete in American team sports was previously held by New York City FC 2’s Maximo Carizzo, a landmark set in in 2022, said the Sacramento club.

Sacramento Republic plays in the USL Championship, the second-tier of US soccer.

With the victory, Sacramento remains in first place in the Western Conference.

Kimbrough signed with Sacramento in August, making him the youngest professional athlete in US team sports history.

Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2023/10/02/sport/davian-kimbrough-debut-sacramento-republic-usl-spt-intl/index.html

 

Asian Games Football: China Thrash Under-Prepared And Jaded India 1-5

Asian Games: A severely-fatigued and under-prepared Indian team got a rude reality check with hosts China out-muscling them 1-5 in an opening group league encounter

A severely-fatigued and under-prepared Indian team got a rude reality check with hosts China out-muscling them 1-5 in an opening group league encounter of the Asian Games football competition in Hangzhou on Tuesday. Giao Tianyi (17th min), Dai Weijun (51st min), Tao Qianglong (72nd and 75th minute) and Hao Fang (90 2) scored for the hosts, while Rahul KP’s (45 1 minute) equaliser from an acute angle was possibly the best strike of the match. It was heartening to see a third-string team holding the title contenders on an even keel during the first 45 minutes, which saw Indian custodian Gurmeet Singh Chahal valiantly save a spot-kick taken by rival captain Zhu Chenjie.

India now need to beat Bangladesh and Myanmar in their remaining two games to qualify for the second round. Myanmar beat Bangladesh 4-2 in another game in this group.

Having reached the Games Village late on Monday evening, the third-string Indian team, with not even four specialist defenders in their ranks, didn’t have enough co-ordination amongst themselves. They looked jet-lagged, not rested enough and there was no way that there could have been a miracle.

The gulf in class and quality was evident and most of the Chinese attacks happened from India’s wide left (China’s right flank) side, which was being manned by Sumit Rathi. It became a free-ride for the Chinese attackers.

Also, the humidity and lack of training time had its effect as the Indians didn’t have the legs to last beyond the first hour. And, once the second goal was scored due to Sandesh Jhingan’s poor anticipation, the floodgates opened.

Jhingan was also responsible for another goal when he had a brain fade and wanted to dribble his team past the danger in his own penalty box and committed harakiri.

A lot of players suffered from cramps due to humidity and, obviously, not having enough time to warm-up.

Skipper Sunil Chhetri was on the pitch for 85 minutes and, save a pile driver that sailed way over the horizontal, he had precious little to do with a literally non-existent feeder line, which concentrated on creating a melee in the defensive third to thwart the wave of Chinese attack.

The only silver-lining was the goal by Rahul KP, the former U-17 World Cupper, who was freed on the wide right by Abdul Rabeeh and the Kerala Blasters player sprinted and smashed it in from near zero degree, much to the awe of a capacity home crowd.

Source: https://sports.ndtv.com/asian-games-2023/asian-games-football-china-thrashes-under-prepared-and-jaded-india-1-5-4404571

Messi, Mbappe and Haaland among FIFA Best award nominees, Bonmati on women’s list

FILE PHOTO-Soccer Football – World Cup – South American Qualifiers – Argentina v Ecuador – Estadio Mas Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina – September 7, 2023 Argentina’s Lionel Messi reacts REUTERS/Agustin Marcarian/File Photo

Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland are on the short-list for The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award, while Spain’s Aitana Bonmati is among the nominees for the Best Women’s Player on the back of winning the Golden Ball at the World Cup.

Half of the dozen nominees in the men’s category were part of Manchester City’s 2022-23 treble-winning squad, while City’s Spanish manager Pep Guardiola is nominated for Best Men’s Coach.

Spain’s World Cup win sees four of their players among the 16 nominees for the women’s award. World Cup runners-up England have four players on the list, with Sarina Wiegman up for the women’s coaching award, while Australia have three players.

World Cup winners Messi of Argentina and Spain’s Alexia Putellas are the current holders of the top player awards.

The nominees were shortlisted by a panel of soccer experts that included retired players Mia Hamm and Didier Drogba.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/messi-mbappe-haaland-among-fifa-best-award-nominees-bonmati-womens-list-2023-09-14/

FIFA Ranking: India drops out of top 100 after the defeat against Lebanon

India were back in top 100 after the SAFF championship, now drops back to 102 after losing to Lebanon in the King’s cup.

Without skipper Sunil Chhetri, Indian men’s team put a creditable performance against high-ranked Iraq in King’s Cup 2023. (Source: AIFF)

The Indian men’s football team has dropped out of the top 100 in the FIFA Rankings after the defeat against Lebanon in the Kings Cup. A 77th-minute goal by Kaseem Al Zein put paid to India’s hopes of retaining the third place in the 49th King’s Cup 2023 as Lebanon defeated India, it also took away 5.09 ranking points from India. This disappointing outcome comes just months after India celebrated their return to the top 100. In the last FIFA Rankings update published by FIFA in June, India had managed to secure the 100th spot following an impressive performance in the Intercontinental Cup and the ongoing SAFF Championship. During June, India recorded five wins and two draws, earning them 4.24 ranking points and pushing them into the world’s top 100 teams.

Source: https://thebridge.in/football/laliga-and-spanish-influence-continues-to-grow-in-strength-in-the-indian-super-league-43763?infinitescroll=1

Luis Rubiales: Spanish FA president resigns after kissing player at Women’s World Cup final

Mr Rubiales’ decision comes after he was suspended by FIFA and the Spanish football federation called on him to resign following the incident.

Luis Rubiales kisses Jennifer Hermoso

Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales has resigned after he kissed a player following the country’s Women’s World Cup win.

Mr Rubiales, who was suspended by football’s governing body FIFA over the kiss, said in an interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored on TalkTV that he was stepping down because he “cannot continue my work”.

His decision comes after the Spanish football federation previously called for him to resign.

Asked what led him to make the decision to quit, Mr Rubiales said: “My father, my daughters, I spoke with them… Some friends, very close to me, they say ‘Luis, you have to focus on your dignity and to continue your life, because you know probably that you are going to damage people you love and the sport you love’.

“But this is more a question of not only me, the attitude of me can affect third parties that are very important.”

Mr Rubiales also posted a document on X, formerly known as Twitter, confirming he had handed in his resignation to the acting president of the Spanish football federation Pedro Rocha.

He said he had also resigned as one of UEFA’s vice presidents.

In the statement, he said the suspension by FIFA and other proceedings means he cannot return to the role he held for more than five years and that trying to hold on to the position would not contribute to “anything positive”.

Source: https://news.sky.com/story/luis-rubiales-spanish-fa-president-says-he-will-resign-after-kissing-player-at-womens-world-cup-final-12957459

Luis Rubiales: Under fire Spanish FA president again defends ‘mutual and consented’ World Cup final kiss

Mr Rubiales grabbed player Jennifer Hermoso and kissed her on the lips during the presentation ceremony following Spain’s World Cup final win over England.

Luis Rubiales in 2018

Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales has issued a fresh defence after kissing a player on the lips following the Women’s World Cup final.

Mr Rubiales’ statement comes as the Spanish football federation called for him to step down on Monday.

The 46-year-old has faced widespread criticism for kissing player Jennifer Hermoso on the lips during the awards ceremony after Spain’s 1-0 victory over England in the Women’s World Cup final on 20 August.

In his statement, he said: “I made some obvious mistakes, which I sincerely regret from the bottom of my heart.

“The spontaneity and happiness of the historic moment led us to carry out a mutual and consented act, the product of great enthusiasm.

“At no time was there any aggression, indeed, there was not even the slightest discomfort, but an overflowing joy in both.

“I repeat: with the consent of both parties, both in the affectionate hugs, as well as in the peak and subsequent farewell full of affectionate mutual gestures, that occurred on the medals delivery stage.

“I have also felt the growing support of people on the street and on social media.”

Earlier, the coach of the Spanish men’s national football team, Luis de la Fuente, apologised for applauding Mr Rubiales during the speech in which he refused to resign.

Mr Rubiales had claimed in the speech last Friday that he was the victim of a “social assassination”.

The men’s coach was sitting in the front row during Mr Rubiales’ speech and clapped when he attacked “false feminism”.

Source: https://news.sky.com/story/luis-rubiales-under-fire-spanish-fa-president-again-defends-mutual-and-consented-world-cup-final-kiss-12952611

Champions League Draw 2023/24 Highlights: Two group of deaths emerge, Man United and Bayern Munich slotted together

UEFA Champions League Draw Highlights: German heavyweights Bayern Munich take on Manchester United, FC Copenhagen and Galatasaray in Group A.

The trophy is on display before the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League group stage draw at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, Thursday, Aug. 31, 2013. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

UEFA Champions League 2023-24 Draw Highlights: Paris St Germain will kick off their quest for a maiden Champions League trophy in a strong Group F featuring Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan and Newcastle United following the draw on Thursday. Holders Manchester City will take on RB Leipzig, Red Star Belgrade and Young Boys in Group G.

City captured their first European crown this year and Pep Guardiola’s side should have few problems in making the last 16, having handed Leipzig a 7-0 thrashing in last year’s tournament. Record 14-times winners Real Madrid will play Serie A champions Napoli, Braga and Union Berlin in Group C. German heavyweights Bayern Munich take on Manchester United, FC Copenhagen and Galatasaray in Group A.

Last season’s runners-up Inter Milan meet Benfica, RB Salzburg and Real Sociedad in Group D, while Europa League winners Sevilla and Arsenal were drawn together in Group B along with PSV Eindhoven and RC Lens. LaLiga champions Barcelona take on Porto, Shakhtar Donetsk and Royal Antwerp in Group H and Group E is made up of Feyenoord, Atletico Madrid, Lazio and Celtic. Scroll down to check all the lhighlights.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/uerfa-champions-league-ucl-draw-2023-live-stream-updates-8917369/

Rubiales’ behaviour ‘inappropriate’, says UEFA’s Ceferin

Soccer Football – FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 – Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez receive the World Cup champions – Moncloa Palace, Madrid, Spain – August 22, 2023 President of the Royal Spanish Football Federation Luis Rubiales during the ceremony REUTERS/Juan Medina/File photo

The president of European soccer’s governing body Aleksander Ceferin called Luis Rubiales’ behaviour “inappropriate” but said he did not want to interfere with FIFA’s disciplinary investigation into the Spanish Football Federation chief.

Soccer’s world governing body FIFA suspended Rubiales from all football-related activities for three months on Saturday as it investigates allegations he gave a player an unwanted kiss on the lips after Spain’s women won the World Cup.

FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Rubiales over the incident with player Jenni Hermoso last Sunday in Sydney that has caused an uproar among players and fans.

Rubiales said he would use the FIFA probe to show his innocence.

“Of course, what he did was inappropriate. We all know it. I hope he knows it was inappropriate. This is enough for the moment because the independent disciplinary bodies will decide,” UEFA President Ceferin told French newspaper L’Equipe on Wednesday.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/rubiales-behaviour-inappropriate-says-uefas-ceferin-2023-08-30/

Women’s World Cup: Heartbreak for England as Lionesses miss out on final glory after defeat to Spain

Spain won the Women’s World Cup for the first time after defeating England’s Lionesses 1-0.

England’s Lionesses have missed out on glory at the Women’s World Cup after being beaten 1-0 by Spain.

Closely missing out on repeating their success at Euros 2022, Sarina Wiegman’s team fought to the very end at a packed-out Stadium Australia in Sydney.

But a first-half goal by Spain’s Olga Carmona, who shot across Mary Earps into the far corner in the 28th minute, broke England’s hearts.

It is Spain’s first major international trophy and makes them the first European team to win the Women’s World Cup since Germany in 2007.

England had come close to taking the lead themselves in the 15th minute when Lauren Hemp’s shot hit the bar.

A shot from England’s Lauren Hemp, right, hits the crossbar. Pic: AP
Spain’s goal by Olga Carmona

Two changes at half-time saw Lauren James and Chloe Kelly replace Rachel Daly and Alessia Russo for the Lionesses, as they tried to turn the game around.

Spain’s Jennifer Hermoso then missed a chance to double her side’s lead from a penalty – granted after a handball by Keira Walsh – after a heroic save by Earps, who dived to her left to save in the 69th minute.

James then forced a save from Spain’s goalkeeper from a tight angle a few minutes later, as England pushed for an equaliser.

Earps even went up to attack a corner in the dying moments for England.

But sadly, it wasn’t to be, as the Lionesses fell short at the final hurdle.

Earps saved a Spanish penalty. Pic: AP

Play was also briefly disrupted during the first half after a protester entered the pitch before an England free kick. The man was swiftly removed by stewards.

‘Absolutely heartbroken’

Captain Millie Bright said the team were “absolutely heartbroken” at the defeat.

“We can say hand on heart we gave everything. Sometimes football goes for you, sometimes it goes against you,” she said.

Complimenting Spain as a “fantastic team” she said: “A lot of emotion… but I’m really proud of the team. To come this far, to play in the World Cup final, not many get to do that.

“This is not it for us, we’ll bounce back.”

Women’s World Cup: Spain’s match-winner Olga Carmona found out father had died after game

Olga Carmona, who plays her club football for Real Madrid, played a starring role in Spain’s World Cup campaign by scoring the winning goals in the semi-final and final.

Olga Carmona kisses the World Cup trophy after the game

The Spanish star who scored the match-winning goal against England in Sunday’s World Cup final found out her father had died after the game.

Olga Carmona’s 29th minute strike was all that separated the sides in Sydney, securing a 1-0 win.

The Spanish FA has announced she found out about the death of her father following the full-time whistle.

“We send out most sincere hugs to Olga and her family in a moment of deep pain,” it said on X, formerly Twitter.

“We love you, Olga, you are the history of Spanish football.”

The 23-year-old Real Madrid star wheeled away in delight when her precise left-footed shot found the corner of Lionesses goalkeeper Mary Earps’s net.

She lifted her shirt to reveal the message “Merchi” on her compression top, which was reportedly a tribute to a friend whose mother recently passed away.

The defender, who scored a late winner in the semi-finals against Sweden, was named player of the match.

Real Madrid said the club’s “condolences and love” were with Carmona, her family and friends.

Spanish team ‘had something special’

Carmona took part normally in the post-match celebrations with her teammates on the Stadium Australia pitch; dancing, getting her medal and kissing the trophy.

According to the Spanish FA, Carmona’s father, who had been fighting a long illness, died on Friday – before the final got under way.

However, Spanish media outlet Relevo reported that family and friends decided not to tell her the news, so that she could focus on the match.

Carmona’s mother and brothers had rushed back to Spain – having originally been in New Zealand for the group stages – but arrived in Australia on Saturday to support her in the final.

It’s the first time Spain have won the competition.

“We felt this team had something special,” she said after the game.

Before news of her father’s death, the Spanish FA had said title celebrations would take place in Madrid when the squad return home on Monday.

Source: https://news.sky.com/story/womens-world-cup-spains-match-winner-olga-carmona-found-out-father-had-died-after-game-12944295

Final Four: Australia makes it through to Women’s World Cup semifinals seeking history for Matildas

There will be a first-time winner of the Women’s World Cup this year, and maybe, just maybe, it will be host country Australia.

The Matildas, serving as co-hosts of the tournament with New Zealand, became the first home team since the United States in 1999 to win a quarterfina l in nine Women’s World Cups. Australia has reached its first semifinal in team history and faces England on Wednesday for a chance to play for the title.

“I genuinely really believe that this team can do great history in so many ways,” Australia coach Tony Gustavsson said, “not just winning football games, but the way that they can inspire the next generation, how they can unite the nation, how they can leave a legacy that is much bigger that football.”

England, the European champion, advanced with a 2-1 victory over upstart Colombia. England also reached the semifinals in 2015 and 2019, only to finish third and fourth and never reach the Women’s World Cup final.

But before the Australia and England showdown, first-time semifinalist Spain takes on powerhouse Sweden on Tuesday in Auckland.

Aside from a 4-0 loss to Japan in group play, Spain has been a force throughout the tournament. It even tuned out an earthquake roughly an hour before its quarterfinal win over 2019 runner-up Netherlands.

The earthquake Friday in New Zealand’s capital of Wellington measured 5.6 on the Richter scale and created minor shaking in and around the stadium.

“We were so concentrated on the game that we didn’t feel it, although we felt some shakes at the hotel the day before,” Spain coach Jorge Vilda said. “The victory of Spain was the earthquake.”

Sweden, meanwhile, is the highest ranked team still in the tournament at second in the world, according to FIFA. The Swedes got into the semifinals by knocking off previously undefeated Japan, the 2011 winners and last remaining champions in the tournament after so many early eliminations of the best teams in women’s soccer.

“I think we have the team to go all the way,” left back Jonna Andersson said, “and now we are one step closer.”

AUSTRALIA
The Matildas advanced after a tense — and electric — penalty shootout 7-6 over France in front of a sold-out crowd in Brisbane, Australia.

It took 20 penalties to decide the winner in the longest shootout in the history of the tournament. It was the game of a lifetime for goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold, who stepped up to take a penalty with the score at 3-3 but hit the post.

Arnold then managed to twice save shots from French midfielder Kenza Dali, the first being waved off after Arnold was ruled to have come off her line for the first save. Arnold said she was “incredibly disappointed” to have missed her shot on goal and thanked her teammates for keeping the Matildas in the game.

Australia, at 12th in the world, is the lowest-ranked team remaining in the tournament.

Sam Kerr, the injured superstar who missed all of group play, came off the bench against France but ended up playing nearly a full game when the match went to extra time. Kerr converted her penalty kick. And the Australians have also been boosted by the play of 20-year-old Mary Fowler, who has stepped in to fill Kerr’s void in this tournament.

Arnold said the Matildas need a day to regroup before focusing on England.

“I don’t want to ever get ahead of myself, and we’re all the same in that aspect,” she said. “We just take one game at a time, one half at a time, whatever that is, and we just keep getting to the next step every time. So now that we’ve made the semifinal for the first time, we’ll take a moment to process what we’ve actually done.”

Source: https://apnews.com/article/world-cup-australia-england-sweden-spain-02d663dd771ae5d52c43b578b207c7cc

Harry Kane Contract: How much is Harry Kane’s salary at FC Bayern Munich, weekly wage, squad number

England’s record goalscorer has agreed a move to the Bundesliga with FC Bayern Munich. Here is the staggering amount he will earn in Germany.

Bayern Munich have agreed a fee for Tottenham Hotspur and England captain Harry Kane. (Getty Images)

It has been the transfer saga that has rumbled on all summer but it finally Harry Kane’s protracted move to Bayern Munich from Tottenham Hotspur has finally a conclusion.

England and Tottenham Hotspur’s top all time goalscorer has been chased by Thomas Tuchel’s side through the summer months, though they had struggled for a breakthrough until a third and final bid was accepted by Daniel Levy and it Kane’s move to the German giants has now been completed.

The 30-year-old, widely regarded as one of the greatest English strikers of all time, has scored 280 goals in 435 appearances for his boyhood club – though he is yet to win a single piece of silverware in his career, which is thought to be a big factor in the move to Germany.

His move to the continent will see him link up with former Chelsea boss Tuchel, who is a big admirer of the England skipper having faced him numerous times during his time in the English capital. He will become one of only a handful of English players to have represented the club and the first since Omar Richards in 2022.

Bayern have just won their 11th Bundesliga title in a row and will add Kane to their already world class forward line that includes the likes of former Manchester City winger Leroy Sane and former Chelsea youngster and German international Jamal Musiala.

How much is Harry Kane’s transfer fee, how much are Bayern Munich paying for Harry Kane

It has been widely reported that the initial fee for the 30-year-old forward will be around €100 million, which equates to approximately £86.4million – according to talkSPORT.

That fee has been confirmed by transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, who claims the Bundesliga champions will also pay a further €20 million in add ons.

In total, Kane’s move could cost Bayern around £104 million.

Source : https://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/harry-kane-how-much-will-harry-kane-earn-at-bayern-munich-harry-kane-transfer-fee-harry-kane-squad-number-4252332

 

Iraq footballer’s insane ‘second-best player’ caption on picture with Cristiano Ronaldo leaves internet in fury

The Iraq footballer posted a picture with Ronaldo following Al Shorta’s semi-final defeat to Al Nassr in the Arab Club Champions Cup.

Iraq player Ahmed Zero posts picture with Ronaldo(Instagram)

Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has been ruling the roost in Saudi Arabia, where he is part of Al Nassr. In the ongoing Arabian Club Champions Cup, Ronaldo is currently the highest goal-scorer, as his Al Nassr side will take on fellow Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal in the final later on Saturday. A global football icon, Ronaldo’s arrival at Saudi Arabia proved influential as many leadng names in footballing world including current Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema and Sadio Mane followed the Portuguese forward.

Just like everywhere else around the world, Ronaldo enjoys a massive fan-base in Saudi Arabia too; and in the ongoing Champions Cup, the Al Nassr forward is popular among players from rival clubs as well. During the side’s semi-final against Iraq-based club Al Shorta, a player from the side – Ahmed Zero – approached Ronaldo for a picture. While the Portgual star obliged, Ahmed’s caption for the photo didn’t sit well with many Ronaldo fans on social media.

The Iraq player, taking to his official Instagram account, wrote, “With the second best player in history.”

Interestingly, the post was filled with comments glorifying Lionel Messi – Ronaldo’s long-time rival – even as Ahmed didn’t clarify who he believes is the best in the world. Months after Ronaldo’s switch to Saudi Pro League, Messi also left Europe to join Inter Miami in Major League Soccer in the United States. The Argentinian World Cup-winner made a prolific start to his US stint, scoring 8 goals in his first five appearances for the side.

Source :https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/football/iraq-footballers-insane-second-best-player-caption-on-picture-with-cristiano-ronaldo-leaves-internet-in-fury-101691821794800.html

Women’s World Cup: England’s Lionesses through to semi-final after beating Colombia

Sarina Wiegman’s team will now face co-hosts Australia, who beat France following a dramatic penalty shootout, in the semi-finals on Wednesday 16 August.

The Lionesses have secured a spot in the semi-finals of the Women’s World Cup after beating Colombia 2-1.

Colombia led the match with Leicy Stantos’s goal 44 minutes in after she looped a shot over Mary Earps from the right, but England’s Lauren Hemp managed to equalise just minutes before half time after a mistake from goalkeeper Catalina Perez.

But it was Alessia Russo who secured England’s winning goal 63 minutes in, lobbing the ball into the bottom left corner from inside the penalty area which gave the Lionesses the lead.

Alessia Russo scored England’s winning goal 63 minutes into the match

Shortly after, Colombia’s Perez left the pitch with an injury and was subbed for Natalia Giraldo.

Sarina Wiegman’s team will now face co-hosts Australia in the semi-finals on Wednesday 16 August, with kick off at 11am UK time.

Speaking after the match, Russo told ITV: “It’s exciting, what more do you want in front of a home crowd?

“We got a bit of that tonight against Colombia. You want to play against the best teams. England fans can always dare to dream but we’ll carry on working hard,” Russo said.

Source : https://news.sky.com/story/womens-world-cup-england-through-to-semi-final-after-beating-colombia-12938471

England’s James gets two-match ban for stamp and red card v Nigeria

[1/2] Soccer Football – FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 – Round of 16 – England v Nigeria – Brisbane Football Stadium, Brisbane, Australia – August 7, 2023 England’s Lauren James clashes with Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie before being shown a red card by referee Melissa Borjas following a VAR review REUTERS/Dan Peled/File Photo
Lauren James has been handed a two-match ban for stamping on Nigeria player Michelle Alozie, meaning James will miss England’s Women’s World Cup quarter-final tie against Colombia, world soccer governing body FIFA said on Thursday.

James, England’s top scorer at the tournament with three goals, received a red card for a bad-tempered stamp on Alozie’s back in the 87th minute of Monday’s game.

The 21-year-old Chelsea player, who will also miss the semi-final if England qualify for the last four, apologised for the incident on Tuesday.

England were reduced to 10 players for more than half an hour but went on to beat Nigeria in a penalty shootout after the match ended 0-0 following extra time.

“The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed a two-match suspension on England’s player Lauren James…,” FIFA said in a statement.

“The suspension will be served for the FIFA Women’s World Cup quarter-final and the next international fixture following that.”

Source: https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/englands-james-gets-two-match-ban-stamp-red-card-v-nigeria-2023-08-10/

Women’s World Cup roundup: Colombia into quarterfinals with 1-0 win

Soccer Football – FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 – Round of 16 – Colombia v Jamaica – Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, Melbourne, Australia – August 8, 2023 Colombia’s Catalina Usme scores their first goal REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

Catalina Usme scored the only goal of the match in the 51st minute and Colombia outlasted Jamaica 1-0 on Tuesday to advance to the Women’s World Cup quarterfinals in Melbourne, Australia.

Usme punched a left-footed strike past Jamaica goalkeeper Rebecca Spencer, first corralling a pass from Ana Guzman from across the box. Colombia is the lowest seeded team left in the Women’s World Cup and advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time.

Catalina Perez made multiple brilliant saves as Jamaica cranked up the pressure in the final 10 minutes and five minutes of extra time. The Colombia goaltender’s next test comes against England on Saturday.

–France 4, Morocco 0

Eugenie Le Sommer scored twice and France dominated Morocco from the open of the Round of 16 match in Adelaide, Australia to reach the quarterfinals. A match with co-host Australia on Saturday is up next.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/womens-world-cup-roundup-colombia-into-quarterfinals-with-1-0-win-2023-08-08/

India vs Japan Asian Champions Trophy Highlights: IND, JPN play out 1-1 draw

India vs Japan Asian Champions Trophy Highlights: India were blocked out by a dogged Japanese defence.

India vs Japan Live Score Asian Champions Trophy 2023: IND vs JPN Latest Updates(PTI)

India vs Japan Asian Champions Trophy Highlights: Three-time champions and title favourites India were held to a 1-1 draw by Japan in their second match of the Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament here on Friday. India had started their campaign on a rousing note, demolishing China 7-1 on Thursday. But, the home side were blocked out by a dogged Japanese defence. Ken Nagayoshi gave Japan the lead in the 28th minute which was neutralised by India skipper Harmanpreet Singh in the 43rd minute.

Follow all the updates here:

Aug 04, 2023 10:12 PM IST
India vs Japan Live Score Asian Champions Trophy 2023: Final hooter! India 1-1 Japan

Japan definitely have to be slightly happier of the two sides. India had a chance of going top of the table today but Malaysia will stay there. For Japan, it is a valuable point against the hosts and tournament favourites and it is something that they can build on after the disappointment they suffered against South Korea.

Aug 04, 2023 10:12 PM IST
India vs Japan Live Score Asian Champions Trophy 2023: Sreejesh in the nick of time

60 mins: A long speculative ball threatens to cause chaos in the Indian circle but Sreejesh clears the danger. That should be that.

Aug 04, 2023 10:07 PM IST
India vs Japan Live Score Asian Champions Trophy 2023: India keep the pressure up

56 mins: Some desperate defending from Japan as they keep India out in these last minutes. First Yoshikawa thwarts the threat from Sukhjeet and Nilakanta comining and entering the circle. Before that Yamada drives Mandeep off the edge of the circle. Mandeep picks a five-minute suspension shortly after that which means India will be one-man short for the rest of this match.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/hockey/india-vs-japan-asian-champions-trophy-2023-live-score-ind-vs-jpn-hockey-match-latest-updates-chennai-101691146474103.html

US football legend Megan Rapinoe announces retirement

The star, who’s won two World Cups and a Ballon d’Or, says the “beautiful game” changed her life forever.

Megan Rapinoe is currently preparing to play at the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Pic: AP

Two-time women’s football World Cup champion Megan Rapinoe has announced her retirement.

The 38-year-old said the current National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season will be her last with a statement on social media.

Posting a picture of her as a little girl, Rapinoe wrote: “I never could have imagined the ways in which soccer would shape & change my life forever, but by the look on this little girl’s face, she knew all along.”

Thanking her family and teammates, she said that leaving professional football on her own terms was “incredibly special”.

Rapinoe will also play in her last Women’s World Cup, as the USA is gearing up to defend their two-time winning streak at this year’s competition, which starts on 20 July in Australia and New Zealand.

USA head coach Vlatko Andonovski said: “Megan Rapinoe is one of the most important players in women’s soccer history and a personality like no other.

Source : https://news.sky.com/story/us-football-legend-megan-rapinoe-announces-retirement-12917618

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