Late Lingard strike saves England

Jesse Lingard's late winner gave England Under-21s a 1-0 win over Sweden which keeps their European Championship dream alive.

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A year and a day after Roy Hodgson saw his side slide so meekly out of the World Cup, it looked like the Three Lions manager would witness the next generation fall short in Olomouc.
Gareth Southgate's men struggled for fluency throughout a Group B tie which was heading for a draw until substitute Lingard volleyed home from the edge of the box five minutes from time, securing the Young Lions a somewhat fortuitous 1-0 win.
It was the Under-21s' first finals victory in six years and boosted their hopes of progressing to the semi-finals ahead of Wednesday's encounter with Italy.
However, Southgate will be all too aware that better will be required against the Azzurini, with a decent performance tailing off dramatically after half-time.
Harry Kane and Will Hughes had the Young Lions' best first-half chances, with Sweden threatening to grab a winner after Carl Jenkinson fired into the side-netting.
England were running out of ideas as they hunted for a winner, only for Lingard, on for the injured Alex Pritchard, to strike the decisive blow by volleying home from the edge of the box.
To the credit of the vocal Swedish fans, they still continued to back their players just as they had done from the outset at the Ander Stadium.
They were quick to poke fun at England's star man Kane, with a banner saying 'Harry who?' complemented by an inflatable doll and humorous, if explicit, chants.
The only time they were quietened early on was when Luke Garbutt's fourth-minute curling effort from the edge of the box snuck just over.
Sweden's tactic was clearly to get behind the England backline and that fact looked to be unnerving the centre-back pairing of Liam Moore and Ben Gibson.
It led to a few hairy moments but the Young Lions were also to do that themselves, with Patrik Carlgren darting off his line to prevent Nathan Redmond meeting Hughes' threaded pass.
The first-half, unlike England's defeat to Portugal, was one of few chances and it took 20 minutes for Sweden to muster their first attempt.
Simon Tibbling's effort was followed by a hopeful Oscar Hiljemark strike, before the former forced Jack Butland into a save after John Guidetti all too easily got past Nathaniel Chalobah.
That moment appeared to jolt Southgate's men into life - for a while at least - and they had their best chances of the opening period soon after.
Having found space down the right, Jenkinson whipped in a low cross which Kane directed just wide with a diving header at the far post.
England quickly returned to the attack and Hughes looked set to convert after receiving an Pritchard cutback, only for an exceptional Filip Helander block to deny him.
Gibson, Tom Carroll and Kane all had tame efforts as half-time approached, with Guidetti and strike partner Isaac Kiese Thelin both testing Butland before time was called.
Danny Ings came on for Hughes at half-time in a bid to change things and quickly proved a nuisance.
Another timely Helander block prevented the Liverpool new boy meeting a cross from Kane, who attempted to scoop home off-balance soon after.
It was not the start of repeated England pressure, though, as an injury to the impressive Pritchard appeared to knock them off-kilter.
There was a rare flash of their quality in the 65th minute, with decent team play ending in Kane cutting back for Jenkinson, only for the right-back's close-range strike to hit the side-netting.
It was a let-off Sweden appeared determined to capitalise on, with Gibson fortunate not to turn in a corner from Ludwig Augustinsson, who had called England "overrated" on the eve of the game.
Kiese Thelin saw penalty claims against Garbutt ignored as the match edged towards the last 15 minutes, with Ruben Loftus-Cheek's introduction in place of Carroll the last throw of the dice by Southgate.
Ings was furious to see penalty appeals rejected after contact with Joseph Baffo and, after Mikael Ishak had an effort at the other end, Redmond tried his luck from distance, forcing Carlgren to tip around the post.
It proved catalyst to the match's decisive moment.
Garbutt sent in the corner which the Swedish goalkeeper flapped at, with the ball falling for Lingard on the edge of the box, cushioning the ball with his chest before volleying home to the delight of the English contingent scatted around the stadium.
There were a few nervy moments during the closing stages but England held out for a much-needed three points.

IHEANACHO, YAHAYA TO HIT UNDER 23 CAMP

seven players from the pool expected to prosecute the 2016 Olympic Games qualifiers against Congo next month.

Sani Faisal, Lukmon Gilmore, Emmanuel Ammana, Tonbara Tiongoli, Freedom Omofonma, Uche Okeke and Gabriel Sunday were axed after the Under 23 national team forced Wikki Tourists to a 3 - 3 draw at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi on Saturday.

Eight Flying Eagles stars will beef up the squad, with Musa Mohammed, Taiwo Awoniyi, Kingsley Sokari, Saviour Godwin and Dele Alampasu expected to report to camp on Monday, June 22.

The foreign - based contingent Musa Yahaya, Kelechi Iheanacho and Moses Simon have been told to join the team two weeks before the first leg tie against the Congolese.

Samson Siasia has also invited Sharks FC defender Chima Akas and Warri Wolves defender Semiu Laidi ‎for the Under 23s get - together in Abuja.

NEYMARless BRAZIL SEE OFF VENEZUELA

 

Neymar may be out of the Copa America, but Brazil are still in it. There may have been a frantic final few minutes after Miku cut the five-time World Cup winners' lead to 2-1, but the majority of this game brought Brazil's best play of the tournament -- and without their best player.
Then again, this was also a game of contradictions. Brazil looked so ferocious for so long but so fragile when it mattered. Analysis of all that will come ahead of their quarterfinal with Paraguay, and it is an intriguing question, given how they have now secured first spot in the group.
Of course, much of it has to be put in the context of a Venezuela who only belatedly started playing. They mostly looked like they didn't know the result of the earlier 0-0 draw between Colombia and Peru, and it beggars belief that their grandstand finish came so late. It ended up coming too late, although Miku still missed the chance to put them through. They are instead out.
That is the other consequence of this game. Brazil did the team that caused them such trauma in the World Cup -- and again in the group stage of this tournament -- a huge favour, as this result meant Colombia qualified by the skin of their teeth in third, behind second-placed Peru.

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Final - Wikki Tourists 3-0 Sharks

SERBIA MAKES HISTORY

© Getty Images

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THE DAY REPLAYED - In the end, a tournament full of surprises and late, late drama had a fitting conclusion. Serbia, playing in the FIFA U-20 World Cup for the first time as an independent nation, will leave as its champions. That is the remarkable outcome after a dramatic and enthralling final day of action that thrilled a sell-out, 25,000-plus crowd at Auckland's North Harbour Stadium. Nemanja Maksimovic's decisive, 118th-minute goal settled the final 2-1 in favour of the delirious Serbians, and left five-time champions Brazil to settle for silver.
Mali will also return home with medals after edging an all-African third-place play-off with Senegal. That game's final tallies of four goals and two saved penalties give an indication, but only that, of the excitement, drama and attacking football that both sides provided. Each head for home having provided fresh reminders of why they have been such fan favourites here in New Zealand. Mali's hero, Adama Traore, also headed the list of award-winners, picking up the adidas Golden Ball award as the tournament's best player. The Golden Glove and Golden Boot, recognising the leading keeper and top scorer, went to Serbia's Predrag Rajkovic and Viktor Kovalenko of Ukraine respectively.
Results
Match for Third Place
Senegal 1-3 Mali
Final
Brazil 1-2 Serbia AET
Goals of the day
Senegal-Mali, 1-2, Adama Traore (83)
When Adama Traore found the top corner with an inch-perfect, 25-yard free-kick, the thought that he would go on to top it - with just 16 minutes left to play - would have seemed ludicrous. But Mali and their richly talented No19 have made a habit of surprising us all, and today was no different. The three Senegal defenders who were surrounding Traore, ushering him down a blind alley, were more shocked than anyone when he suddenly turned 180 degrees to wriggle clear of them all. Then, they could only look on aghast as, somehow, with his weaker foot, he struck the perfect shot - flat, powerful and bound for the far corner from the minute it left his boot.
Brazil-Serbia, 1-1, Andreas Pereira (74)
Reclaiming Brazil's lost reputation for fantasy football has been a stated aim of Rogerio Micale's side, and goals like this will go a long way towards achieving that. Like Traore, Andreas Pereira seemed to be going nowhere but, similar to his Malian counterpart, he made light work of three pursuers. Milan Gajic, Andrija Zivkovic and match-winner Maksimovic were all left in his wake as the substitute capped a mazy, jinking dart in from the left with a clever change of direction and a delicious curling finish.
Memorable moments
Dedication amid the deluge
They may be outnumbered by their rugby and cricket counterparts, but there is no doubting the passion of New Zealand's football enthusiasts. That devotion was definitely put to the test today, as Auckland saved its worst weather of the tournament for the day when everyone had hoped the sun would shine. In a stadium with three uncovered stands and most of the fans open to the elements, the heavy, incessant rain that fell throughout the third-place play-off and returned late in the final was the most unwelcome of visitors. It was impressive, though, that Auckland's sodden supporters remained undeterred, sitting hardily through the downpour to enjoy their favourite sport. Fortunately, they were rewarded for that stoicism, with some thrilling on-field fare helping to make up for the conditions overhead.

Diarra, Traore help a friend in need
Falaye Sacko will return to Mali tomorrow as a hero, part of the side that broke new ground and brought home the bronze. But the midfielder will be as relieved as he is overjoyed at that status - for he could so easily have become a national villain. Missing one penalty was bad enough; conceding another at the other end just ten minutes later was positively calamitous. Fortunately for Sacko, he was bailed out by two inspired colleagues, with his errors all but forgotten due to Adama Traore's brilliant goals and Djigui Diarra's outstanding penalty save.
Coach knows best
Though Boschilia's U-20 World Cup has contained much to be proud of, his reaction to being substituted against Serbia - a bad-tempered booting of Brazil's dugout - was not his finest moment. And if the midfielder felt his coach had erred in replacing him, he was soon proved wrong. It took just eight minutes, after all, for his replacement to provide the magic that Brazil had been lacking. Fortunately, Boschilia's embrace with his coach after Pereira's strike told a story of a valuable lesson learned. 
A fan-tastic final
In the red corner, we had horns, waving flags and bouncing, chanting supporters. In the yellow, whistles, drums, balloons, dancers and the unmistakable sounds of Samba. If New Zealanders wanted a taste of the atmosphere that only a football World Cup can deliver, this was it. The colour was dazzling, the noise near-incessant, and Kiwi neutrals were clearly - and rightly - enraptured. And while the Europeans were left delighted, the South Americans disconsolate, both groups of supporters contributed to a wonderful occasion.
The stat
118 - Nemanja Maksimovic's title-winning goal, scored two minutes from the end of extra time, is the latest ever seen in a U-20 World Cup final.
The words
"I'm very happy to have sent a message in this tournament - a message of unity, of passion and playing with heart. And I hope we can help unite our people to live a peaceful kind of life after 20 years of struggle," Veljko Paunovic, Serbia coach.

Leon Balogun moves to Mainz 05

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Nigeria international Leon Balogun has joined Bundesliga side Mainz in a three-year deal after a successful spell with Darmstadt where he starred in a fairytale run that culminated in promotion to the Bundesliga. Leon told supersport.com that he was very happyy and grateful for this opportunity.
"I think it’s a good move to a team that has established itself over the last few years in the Bundesliga.
“I’m very excited to reach my goals with the new club and I am looking forward to a new start.”
The 26-year-old moves to Mainz as a free-agent after ending his contract with Darmstadt 98 but he remains grateful for the opportunity they gave him to pick up his career after injuring his leg while making his international debut for Nigeria against Mexico in Atlanta in March 2014 and not having his contract renewed by Fortuna Dusseldorf as a result.
I'm very grateful for everything SV Darmstadt 98 has done for me. It was them who gave me the opportunity to step on the stage again after my injury."
"What we made out of it was sensational...almost a miracle. Without them, none of this would have happened. So I give thanks to everybody at the club, because it was them who believed in me and my abilities."
Mainz’s sporting Director said they were made aware of Balogun during his time at Fortuna Düsseldorf, but then he suffered an injury which threw him off course.
"A strong season with Darmstadt 98 put him back on our radar. He is a physically strong, dynamic right back who can also play in the centre of defence. We are looking forward to having such a highly motivated and ambitious player, who is really passionate about playing in the Bundesliga.”
Balogun has previously played for Hannover 96 (2008-2010), Werder Bremen (2010-2012) and Fortuna Düsseldorf (2012- 2014), accumulating 23 appearances in the Bundesliga, as well as 32 in the 2. Bundesliga and 49 in the third division.
After breaking his foot during his international debut in March 2014, he signed last year for Darmstadt 98.
“In Leon Balogun we have found an aggressive, strong-tackling fullback, who is also flexible across the back-four. He is a nice, intelligent guy who will not just enhance our team on the pitch, but also in the changing room,” coach Martin Schmidt said to mainz05.de.
“I’m looking forward to the upcoming challenge. Mainz 05 has established itself in the Bundesliga in the last few years, just like I’d like to do. This is a very good opportunity for me and I am very happy and proud to be a future part of the 05s,” Balogun added in another chat with mainz05.de.

Kingsley Udoh Strikes Late To Hand Akure Gunners Late Victory Over Wolves

A last-gasp winner from Kingsley Udoh helped Sunshine Stars defeat Warri Wolves 2-1 in a Nigeria Professional Football League encounter played at the Akure Township Stadium on Thursday.

The opening stages saw Wolves have the upper hand in terms of ball possession, with Sunshine sitting back looking to hit the visitors on the counter.

Ikechukwu Ibenegbu gave Wolves the lead with a fine finish, beating goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa hands down, after being left unmarked in the box.

In the 30th minute, the Seasiders launched a counter-attack, with Ibenegbu’s decent strike deflecting off Emmanuel Olowo. It was almost goal number two for Wolves.

As the half-time break approached, the home side dominated possession in the final third of the pitch, winning a handful of corner-kicks.

And they were on level terms when big defender Stephen Eze scored for them.

On the stroke of 47th minute, Kingsley Eduwo unleashed a powerful header that left goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi untroubled.

Sunshine completely took control of the second half, but they were unable to create clear-cut goalscoring chances.

They were given a soft landing when central defender Oke Ogagotewho was sent-off at stoppage time.

Sunshine did eventually found the back of the net in stoppage time, when Udoh beat Akpeyi with a brilliant effort for Sunshine’s second on the day.

Group stage concludes with celebrations and tears

© Getty Images

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THE DAY REPLAYED – The final four group stage matches of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015™ came to a close on Wednesday as Groups E and F were finalised and the remaining spots in the Round of 16 were determined.
There were few surprises in store for the six teams still vying to secure a spot in the knockout stages (Brazil and Colombia has already sealed passage), though a flurry of fine French goals delighted the fans in Ottawa, England entertained the Montreal crowd, Korea Republic stunned Spain with a late fight back and Brazil took down Las Ticas in a tight contest.
Results
Group E
Costa Rica 0-1 Brazil
Korea Republic 2-1 Spain 
Group F
Mexico 0-5 France
England 2-1 Colombia
Goal of the day
Mexico 0-5 France, Amandine Henry (80’)
France were by no measure short of goals in their rout of a young El Tri team in Ottawa, but Amandine Henry definitely saved the best of the bunch for last. With ten minutes remaining and the game well in hand, the midfielder picked her head up and decided to have a go from about 25 yards out. After rolling the ball ahead of her slightly the No6 unleashed a wicked strike, which surely her namesake from Les Bleus’ fame would approve of, that was always curling away from Cecilia Santiago and into the top corner for what will be a clear contender for goal of the tournament.
Memorable moments
French frenzy
Les Bleues made easy work of El Tri, and Philippe Bergeroo’s side made history in the process. Marie Laure Delie scored 34 seconds into the match, just four ticks of the watch longer than Lena Videkull’s goal against Japan at China PR 1991, the fastest goal in tournament history. 
No boom box? No problem!
Upon arriving at Olympic Stadium in Montreal, the Colombian team sang in unison while walking to the dressing room, where they have become used to continuing the party with more singing and dancing in an effort to relax before the match. However, Las Cafeteras’ kit man accidentally left the all-important boom box back at the hotel, but that was no issue for the South Americans. Without missing a beat, the players started singing on their own and making their own rhythms to carry on a tradition established throughout the group stage.
Korean history
The Taeguk Warriors celebrated wildly in their dressing room and in the tunnel after completing a remarkable second-half comeback to sink Spain 2-1 and reach the Round of 16 for the first time at the Women’s World Cup. The Korea Republic bench sprinted onto the pitch at full time, then they got really loud once they were away from the cameras, singing and dancing while spraying members of their backroom staff with water and sports drinks to mark the occasion of qualifying for the knockout stages.
Tears for Las Ticas
Despite some brave goalkeeping by Dinnia Diaz – the Costa Rican keeper made eight saves before Raquel finally found a way past Las Ticas’ No1 with seven minutes remaining – the Central Americans never found that all-important goal, which would have helped them in the race to being one of the top four third-place teams. Reminiscent of Los Ticos’ exit at Brazil 2014 where Keylor Navas shone before the Netherlands edged Costa Rica on penalties in the quarter-finals, Amerlia Valverde’s side can leave Canada with their heads held high. 
The stat
13 – France became the quickest team to score three goals in a Women’s World Cup match, accomplishing the feat in just 13 minutes.
The words
“I don't often score, so I'm very happy to have scored at a World Cup, and I hope there are more to come. I'll have to watch it again, but I think I was it a bit lucky - sometimes those shots end up high or wide!" Amandine Henry on her 80th minute strike
Next matchday
Saturday 20 June
Round of 16
Germany – Sweden (Lansdowne Stadium, Ottawa, 15:00)
China PR – Cameroon (Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton, 18:3

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote wants to buy Arsenal

Africa's richest businessman says he is planning a bid to buy Arsenal.

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote believes the building of an oil refinery in his homeland will give him the finance to secure a takeover.
The 58-year-old, who has an estimated wealth of £11.5bn, says he has supported the Gunners since the 1980s.
"When we get this refinery on track, I will have enough time and enough resources to pay what they are asking for," he told BBC Hausa. 
American Stan Kroenke is Arsenal's majority shareholder, owning 67.02% of the club's parent company Arsenal Holdings plc.
Russian-Uzbek Alisher Usmanov owns 30.04% with the remainder of the 62,217 shares held by minority shareholders including former players and the Arsenal Supporters' Trust, who own three.
Dangote is ranked 67th on the Forbes rich list. 
He had previously been interested in purchasing the 15.9% stake sold to Kroenke for £123m by Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith in April 2011 only to pull out.
"There were a couple of us who were rushing to buy, and we thought with the prices then, the people who were interested in selling were trying to go for a kill," Dangote added.
"We backtracked, because we were very busy doing other things, especially our industrialisation."
Dangote believes Arsenal require a different ownership in order to be more successful on the pitch.
He added: "They are doing well, but they need another strategic direction. They need more direction than the current situation, where they just develop players and sell them."

Chinedu Obasi Hopes To Get Back To Full Fitness Before Summer Move

Published: June 18, 2015

Nigeria international Chinedu Obasi has returned to Germany after spending the last few weeks in Nigeria vacationing.

At the end of this month, the Beijing 2008 Olympics silver medalist will walk away from Schalke 04 as a free agent after his contract was not renewed.

In recent years the 29 - year - old has been plagued by injuries which limited his appearances in the Bundesliga to 6 league games in 2014 so his priority now is to return to full fitness before he begins his search for a new employer.

“Chinedu Obasi went back to Germany two days ago. He just needs to get fit, he is still undergoing physiotherapy before he thinks of joining a new club,” Obasi’s representative told alnigeriasoccer.com.

The former Flying Eagles striker starred for Lyn Oslo and Hoffenheim before switching to Schalke 04 in the winter of 2012.

Transfer Gossip

Arsenal, Spurs and Milan told Kondogbia price, City will test Wilshere's bond with Gunners, Newcastle keen on Cabaye reunion, United quoted £20million for Fabinho...

United target Barca youngster, Liverpool and Spurs battle for Steven N'Zonzi, Marcos Rojo to Fenerbahce (what?) and Arsenal back in for £30m Julian Draxler.

OSPINA CECH-ING OUT?
Reports in Turkey claim Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina is heading to Fenerbahce.

With Petr Cech seemingly on his way to The Emirates, Colombian Ospina seems set to be the one to make way only a year after joining the Gunners.

Turkish outlet Haberturk report that the Colombian will join Fener for just under £4million. Wenger presumably hopes Cech can help straighten out Wojciech Szczesny.


TOON MAKE DOST CONTACT
Newcastle have made an approach to Wolfsburg over striker Bas Dost, according to The Chronicle.

The Magpies are keen to recruit two strikers this summer, with a move for Charlie Austin said to still be under consideration, but the club are further along in their pursuit of Dost.

The 26-year-old will be available for under £10million and is understood to be keen on a move. In fairness, the prospect of playing alongside Emmanuel Riviere would be enough to tempt anyone to the North East.


ARSENAL TOLD KONDOGBIA PRICE
The Tottenham bid for Geoffrey Kondogbia reported earlier doesn't have much chance of succeeding given Gazzetta dello Sport claims Monaco want £25million, with Arsenal sniffing.

The Express claims "Arsene Wenger has apparently identified Kondogbia as the man to bring some steel to the Gunners' game, and is said to have already held talks with the France international."

AC Milan are also very interested and have been widely reported as having submitted an offer. The Rossoneri are closing in on Jackson Martinez, want Zlatan Ibrahimovic and the Express also says they "apparently" have a deal for Mats Hummels in the works. Righto.


SKRTEL AGREES LIVERPOOL DEAL
Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel has agreed a new contract with Liverpool after turning down the chance to join Inter Milan, according to various reports on Merseyside.

Presumably, Liverpool increased their offer from "the kind offered to players who are much older or who have health problems".

Skrtel's agent Karol Csonto is quoted in the Liverpool Echo as saying: "I confess that there were not mere rumours, the interest from Inter was real. The deal did not go ahead, but there was contact made.

"The player had been thinking about his future and eventually opted to remain at Liverpool."


REAL MADRID STILL WANT AGUERO
Madrid newspaper AS are doing their best to turn Sergio Aguero's head by repeating their claim that the dreamy Argentine is at the top of their summer wanted list.

The newspaper does warn - however - that 'the financial muscle of [Real Madrid] is not inexhaustible' and that they may have to sell Karim Benzema or Fabio Coentrao to fund a move for Aguero. They might want to ask themselves why on earth Manchester City would sell...


'SPURS BID FOR KONDOGBIA
It seems highly unlikely that Geoffrey Kondogbia would join Tottenham but Spanish newspaper Sport claim that the Monaco man has been the subject of a £20m bid from Spurs, who cannot offer Champions League football but can offer the chance to play alongside Ryan Mason and Andros Townsend.

So why is it on the front page of Sport? Because Barcelona are said to be interested in Kondogbia as an alternative to Paul Pogba. Don't they know that Fabian Delph is available?


'ARSENAL BID FOR MORENO'
This doesn't make a great deal of sense but we're only here to faithfully bring you the gossip. Spanish newspaper Marca claim that Arsenal have already offered £14m to Espanyol for defender Hector Moreno.

As Arsenal really don't need another centre-half, we suspect that this is gold-plated nonsense. feel free to ignore and move on.


CITY READY WILSHERE APPROACH
This one won't go away. Following the rejection of their second bid for Raheem Sterling, Manchester City will attempt to sign Jack Wilshere from Arsenal.

Presumably City want both Wilshere and Sterling. The idea it might be one or the other would hint at a skewed recruitment approach. Sterling certainly seems the more likely of the two to be playing at the Etihad come the new season, but City clearly fancy their chances of prising Wilshere away from his boyhood club and The Mirror report that an approach is on its way.

Just last week Wilshere was looking for reassurance from Arsenal. Despite warning he would not go to any club just to satisfy homegrown quotas, the midfielder said: "I'd want to be wanted by a club, I want to be wanted by Arsenal." City could certainly make him feel valued, though whether he is ready yet to walk away from Arsenal remains to be seen.


UNITED WANT LUKAKU
The Sun are calling it a 'new shock target' but we are not massively shocked that The Sun would claim that Manchester United are interested in Romelu Lukaku. We would be massively shocked if it were true, mind.

They also mention United's interest in Mario Mandzukic, reported by The Sun on June 9. It's difficult to see either being of any real interest to United as Lukaku scored just ten PL goals last season and Mandzukic's 12-goal La Liga haul was little better.


NEWCASTLE WANT CABAYE REUNION
Newcastle's attempt to get the 2010-11 band together could be boosted by a push to re-sign Yohan Cabaye from Paris Saint-Germain.

Coming days after it was reported the Toon were exploring the possibility of bringing Andy Carroll back to Tyneside, The Sun claims that France international Cabaye is a target for Steve McClaren. Joey Barton and Kevin Nolan must be staring at their phones.

Cabaye, 29, has also been linked with Crystal Palace recently, and with respect to the Eagles and Magpies, it is surprising that the midfielder's stock has fallen in quite the way it has. He struggles to get in the PSG XI, but many would. Isn't there a top-six side who could use a player of Cabaye's sort?


BIG GUNS ON THE PROWL IN MONACO
The Daily Mail has plenty of fresh, steaming...gossip from Monaco this morning involving United, Tottenham and Arsenal.

The Ligue 1 club have reportedly told United they will have to pay £20million for the wonderfully-named Fabinho. The right-back only signed permanently for Monaco last month for £4.2million having spent the last two years on loan at the Stade Louis II from Portugal's Rio Ave in Portugal. A few weeks on, they have quoted the Red Devils almost four times that amount. Sounds improbable until you consider that Jorge Mendes represents the Brazilian.

Meanwhile, Tottenham have been told to forget the idea of signing Anthony Martial, while Jeffrey Kondogbia is said to be the subject of a £20million bid from AC Milan, which the Mail says may spark Arsenal to finally move for the midfielder. Best get a shift on, Arsene.


AND THE REST
Aston Villa are eyeing up a move for Tottenham's Andros Townsend after signing Micah Richards...Chelsea are targeting Abdul Baba Rahman from Augsburg for £15million...Newcastle are hoping their pursuit of Watford's Troy Deeney could convince QPR to drop their asking price for Charlie Austin...Nathaniel Clyne is ready to snub Manchester United and push for a move to Liverpool...Estaban Cambiasso is weighing up whether to move to the US and play in Major League Soccer...Juventus have opened talks with Chelsea over an audacious £18m swoop for Brazil star Oscar.

Manchester City have been told Paul Pogba will only leave Juve if he asks to leave...Middlesbrough are in a £2m battle with Celtic to sign Jelle Vossen permanently from Genk...Chelsea have decided they will sell Petr Cech for Arsenal and bring in QPR's Rob Green as his replacement...Manchester United could be made to wait until the very end of the summer transfer window to sign Hugo Lloris...Arsenal and Manchester United have been told they can have Morgan Schneiderlin for £24m...Watford want Getafe midfielder Pablo Sarabia, who was once on Arsenal and Manchester United's radar.

Manchester United have asked Real Madrid about signing centre-back Raphael Varane during the David de Gea negotiations...Manchester City will wrap up a £10m deal for Fulham youngster Patrick Roberts in the coming days...Stephen Bywater and Peter Ramage could move to the Indian Super League this summer...Newcastle, Chelsea and West Ham are in a three-way battle for QPR's Charlie Austin...Chelsea are lining up a move to sign 18-year-old Serbian wonderkid Andrija Zivkovic...Manchester City's hopes of signing Kevin De Bruyne have been boosted after contract talks with Wolfsburg stalled...Celtic are calm about Virgil van Dijk's future despite the defender wanting to leave.

Brazil's Dani Alves blasts referee after Neymar red card in Colombia loss

Neymar, Carlos Bacca and Elias reflect on Colombia's 1-0 win against Brazil in a heated Copa America Group C match.

Dani Alves hit out at Chilean referee Enrique Osses after he dismissed Neymar during Brazil's 1-0 Copa America defeat to Colombia.
Jeison Murillo scored the only goal of the game in the 36th minute, and Brazil captain Neymar was sent off at the end of the match to cap a miserable night for Dunga's side.
Neymar, who had been booked in the first half, was dismissed along with Colombia's Carlos Bacca after a melee in injury time that involved several players.
Bacca, who shoved Neymar from behind, was apparently upset after the Brazilian kicked the ball at Pablo Armero and then seemed to head-butt Murillo.
However, Brazil defender Alves, who also plays alongside Neymar at Barcelona, blamed referee Osses.
"Referees have to stop thinking that they are the stars," Alves said, according to AFP. "The stars are not them -- they are there to control the game. We are used to this in South America -- everyone here is against Brazil."

Neymar protests to referee Enrique Osses during Brazil's defeat to Colombia.

Alves said the opposition had also played a role in the incident.
Neymar had suffered a broken vertebra during Brazil's World Cup victory over Colombia last year, and Alves said: "They know the personality of Neymar and they went in search of him. They tried to provoke him and make him nervous."
Chelsea forward Willian said officials had to do more to protect Neymar.
"The referees have to respect Neymar because he is always getting hit," Willian said. "It happened again today, and he was the one ejected."
Brazil coach Dunga added: "Colombia showed that it is a very experienced team. Our players at times got caught in their provocations and forgot to play football.
"Brazil has to play football. Brazil can't go to war, we have to focus on what we do best, which is play football."
The result ended Colombia's 24-year winless run against Brazil, and left the two sides level with Venezuela at the top of Group C with three points each.
Venezuela and Peru, however, have a game in hand, and they will play their second group match on Thursday. If Peru were to beat Venezuela, all four teams would enter the final round with three points each.
The top two teams in each of the three groups advance, plus the two-best third-place finishers.

Brazil can survive without Neymar'

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Brazil coach Dunga insisted that the team would find a way to cope at the Copa America without inspirational captain and goalscorer Neymar after his red card controversy against Colombia.
Tournament disciplinary chiefs are to announce Thursday the punishment for Neymar who was sent off after appearing to aim a headbutt at Colombia goalscorer Jeison Murillo following a 1-0 defeat on Wednesday.
The predicted two-match suspension would rule him out of Brazil's final group game against Venezuela and any quarterfinal clash.
"We have played without Neymar before. We have to be ready," Dunga said of the looming absence of the key player.
The coach said he would wait to see what punishment is inflicted but told a press conference after Wednesday's match that he was already thinking of possible solutions.
"We are starting to think about how to play," he said. "We played once without Neymar and now we will see the players we have."
Neymar was injured in Brazil's World Cup quarterfinal win over Colombia last year and missed the semifinal in which his side collapsed to a 7-1 defeat by Germany.
"We have a whole group of players," Dunga said. "Of course we wanted to be able to count on Neymar. We will have to find a way to replace him."
Dunga and Neymar have been strongly critical of Chilean referee Enrique Osses over the sending off.
"Our players were often provoked," Dunga said.
"In my view the rules are always used against me," Neymar told Brazilian media, as he criticised Osses' decision to caution him for a handball in the first half of the game.

Official : Ikechukwu Uche Joins Mexican Club Tigres ,Subject To A Medical

Mexican club Tigres have announced the signing of Ikechukwu Uche from Villarreal subject to a successful medical.

The Nigeria international watched from the stands when Tigres clashed with Emelec in the quarter - final of the Copa Libertadores last month and he would feature in the semi - final tie against Internacional on July 16 if his switch is completed by then.

Ikechukwu Uche has spent the last 13 years of his career in Spain after arriving from local side Iwuanyanwu Nationale.

The 31 - year - old represented Racing Ferrol, Recreativo, Getafe and Real Zaragoza before he was snapped up by Villarreal  in the summer of 2011.

Apart from the aforementioned teams, the Super Eagles star enjoyed a loan spell at Getafe.

Raquel sends Brazil through perfect, Costa Rica eliminated

A late Raquel goal sent Brazil through to the knockout phase as one of only two teams on maximum points and eliminated opponents Costa Rica from the FIFA Women's World Cup Canada 2015™ in the process with a 1-0 victory.
An under-strength Seleção monopolised possession and had umpteen attempts on goal, but the heroics of goalkeeper Dinnia Diaz appeared set to preserve deadlock and earn Las Ticas a third successive draw until the 24-year-old coolly slotted into the bottom corner in Moncton seven minutes from time.
Having already secured first place in Group E, Brazil rested several key players including the legendary Marta, but that did not stop them creating countless first-half chances. After Gabriela had a goal ruled out for offside, Darlene shot narrowly wide following a neat dribble, before the same player forced Diaz into a smart save. The South Americans’ best opportunity fell to Rosana, whose composure deserted her when unmarked in the box.
Costa Rican breaks were seldom, but Raquel Rodriguez did spurn one gilt-edged opening, heading a pinpoint Shirley Cruz cross straight into the arms of Luciana from close range. On the hour, Rafaelle propelled a rapid counter-attack and fed substitute Beatriz, whose firm strike from inside the area was pushed over the bar by Diaz. The Costa Rica No1 then blocked a point-blank Rosana flick on her line.
Diaz continued to repel opposition strikes, until Raquel broke clear and beat her in the 84th minute. That ensured Brazil, alongside Japan, advanced with a perfect group-stage record, sending Vadao’s girls into a last-16 duel with Australia high on confidence.

Colombia beat Brazil to exact World Cup revenge

© AFP

Colombia bounced back to stun Brazil 1-0 at the Copa America here Wednesday, avenging their bruising defeat to the South American giants in last year's FIFA World Cup™ quarter-finals.

A first-half goal by Inter Milan defender Jeison Murillo settled a frenetic Group C encounter in Santiago which leaves Colombia firmly in contention for a place in the quarter-finals. Three teams - Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela - now have three points in Group C.

A bad night for Brazil was compounded when skipper Neymar picked up his second caution of the tournament, which rules him out of the crucial final group game against Venezuela on Sunday. Victory was sweet for Colombia, who were subjected to rough-house tactics from Brazil last year during the World Cup in a 2-1 quarter-final exit.

A pulsating opening 45 minutes saw Colombia gradually get on top after a frantic start dominated by defence. Brazil, who brought in Thiago Silva at center-back in place of David Luiz, defended in depth throughout, dropping back in numbers and frustrating Colombia's attack.

Colombia also gave no quarter, with defensive midfielder Carlos Sanchez breaking up Brazil's attacks in midfield and restricting the five-time world champions to hardly any shots on goal. Colombia slowly began to get the better of their opponents however, and soon started to threaten.

A Sanchez shot deflected just wide of Brazilian defender Miranda just after the half-hour mark and then on 36 minutes the breakthrough came. Cuadrado's teasing free-kick from the right flank dropped into the area and when Brazil failed to clear, Murillo was on hand to rifle in a low shot past Jefferson.

Chelsea star Cuadrado might have doubled Colombia's lead on 43 minutes but wastefully shot wide after being teed up by Teo Gutierrez's deft back heel. Brazil might have grabbed a barely deserved equaliser just before half-time though when Dani Alves skipped clear down the right and curled a cross into Neymar whose diving header was saved by David Ospina.

It got worse for Neymar however, who was booked for handling the rebound from Ospina's save. It means Brazil will be without their most potent attacker for their tie with Venezuela. Brazil went for broke in the second half, bringing on Liverpool attacking midfielder Philippe Coutinho for Fred, and immediately looked more threatening as a result.

But they squandered a golden chance to equalise on 58 minutes when German Bundesliga-based striker Roberto Firmino missed an open goal. The ball ended up with Firmino after Ospina made a hash of a clearance. But with an open goal begging, Firmino blazed over the bar.

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Falcao to join Chelsea

Chelsea have agreed a season-long loan deal with Monaco for Radamel Falcao, according to Sky sources.

Falcao spent last season on loan at Manchester United but boss Louis van Gaal opted against making the move permanent after he scored just four goals in 26 Premier League appearances.
The 29-year-old Colombian striker was keen to remain in the Premier League and Sky Sports reported last week that Chelsea were in talks to sign him following the release of Didier Drogba.
And Blues manager Jose Mourinho spoke publicly about the discussions, stating his desire to help Falcao "reach his level again".
He said: "It hurts me that people in England think that the real Falcao is the one we saw at Manchester United.
"He played in Spain and Portugal and I know him very well because I was in Portugal and Spain. In Spain we were together when he was at Atletico and I was at Real and I know him very, very well... he is a great player."
Falcao made his name in Europe with Mourinho's former club Porto, where he 41 goals in the Portuguese Primera and 21 in 21 appearances in Europe.
He moved to Atletico Madrid for £35million in 2011 where he continued to be prolific, scoring 70 goals in 90 appearances in all competitions.
Monaco signed him in 2013 for £52m but he suffered from injuries and played just 22 times over two season, scoring 13 goals in all competitions.
Falcao, who has 25 goals in 52 appearances for Colombia, was under considerable scrutiny at Old Trafford last season during an expensive loan for United, and was criticised by Van Gaal for a lack of fitness.

Six teams through, two head home

© Getty Images

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THE DAY REPLAYED - Although most teams are a long way from home at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2015™, all of them are eager to extend their stay in Canada for as long as possible. However, with the final round of matches taking place in Groups C and D on Tuesday, some were inevitably going to be disappointed, while others would celebrate reaching the knockout stages. In Group C, Cameroon prevailed after going head-to-head with Switzerland for a place in the Round of 16. Things were rather different in Group D, where all four teams kept an eye on results elsewhere as they all still had a chance of going through to the next stage. At the end of the day it was Ecuador and Nigeria who were forced to pack their bags for home.

Results
Group C
Switzerland 1-2 Cameroon
Ecuador 0-1 Japan

Group D
Nigeria 0-1 USA
Australia 1-1 Sweden

Goal of the day
Sweden – Australia 1-1, Sofia Jakobsson (15’)
Jakobsson’s equaliser against Australia proved that power is not always a must when it comes to shooting from distance. Sweden’s No10 received the ball on the right wing, cut inside and dribbled parallel to the edge of the penalty area before hitting a left-footed shot inside the near post. Despite being well positioned to make a save, goalkeeper Lydia Williams had no chance against such a superbly placed effort.
Memorable moments
Out of sight, but very much in mind
The tournament was over for Japan’s Kozue Ando in her team’s very first game after she broke her left ankle, forcing her to watch from afar as she recovers from the injury. Her team-mates have not forgotten her, however, and have taken to placing a teddy bear sporting her No7 shirt on the substitutes’ bench, making sure she is still very much a part of the action.
Musical number
Upon arriving at the BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, Nigeria demonstrated that even seemingly ordinary occasions can be made into special ones. After the Super Falcons emerged from the bus, the players, coaches and backroom staff made the short trip to their changing room singing and clapping loudly. Nevertheless, their opponents USA remained unfazed and won the encounter 1-0, leaving Nigeria bottom of the group and out of the competition.

Into the last 16 without touching a ball
The Netherlands were one of the biggest winners of the day – and they did not even play. Instead, they probably watched the match between Switzerland and Cameroon sitting on a sofa in their hotel, and will have been happy to see Switzerland stay on three points following their defeat, the same tally as Thailand in Group B. The Dutch side ended the group stage on four points, only marginally better perhaps, but enough for the tournament debutants to be guaranteed a place in the Round of 16 as one of the best third-placed finishers. Switzerland’s frustration at losing was short-lived, as results in Group D meant they too were certain to be among the best third-placed teams, becoming the sixth side to book their place in the next round.
A taste of home
Despite the considerable distance to their respective homelands, both Switzerland and Cameroon will have felt at home during their encounter in Edmonton. Fans of the former arrived at the stadium with cow bells, which they rang every time their team approached the opposition goal, almost creating the impression the match was taking place on an Alpine pasture. Meanwhile, the African supporters sang their country’s national anthem so wholeheartedly it seemed to give their side added motivation to succeed. In doing so, they played their part in helping Cameroon reach the knockout stages.
The stat
14 – Abby Wambach’s volley for USA against Nigeria was her 14^th goal at a Women’s World Cup, pulling her level with Germany’s Birgit Prinz and just one behind the tournament’s all-time leading scorer: Brazil attacker Marta. With both USA and Brazil now in the last 16 in Canada, the duo can battle it out for supremacy. Christie Rampone was the second American to write her name in the record books on Tuesday, becoming the oldest player to feature at a Women’s World Cup at the age of 39.
The words
“Despite the two heavy defeats in our opening games, today we showed that we deserved to be here. We deserved to qualify and we’ve defended the honour of our country. That’s the experience we can take from here and we’ll continue to work on developing women’s football in Ecuador.” Ecuador coach Vanessa Arauz was proud of her team, who showed in their 1-0 defeat to Japan that the difference between the sides was not as big as the gulf separating the two in the FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking, where Japan are in fourth and Ecuador in 48th.

Next matchday
Wednesday 17 June (all times given are local)
Group E
Korea Republic - Spain (Lansdowne Stadium, Ottawa, 19:00)
Costa Rica – Brazil (Moncton Stadium, Moncton, 20:00)
Group F
Mexico – France (Lansdowne Stadium, Ottawa, 16:00)
England – Colombia (Olympic Stadium, Montreal, 16:00)

Aguero diving header downs Uruguay

(FIFA.com) Wednesday 17 June 2015

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© AFP

Sergio Aguero reignited Argentina's Copa America challenge, scoring the only goal as the favourites defeated historic rivals Uruguay 1-0 in a hard-fought clash. The little striker headed home a cross from Manchester City team-mate Pablo Zabaleta in the 56th minute to settle a gritty encounter that leaves La Albiceleste on track to win Group B.

Uruguay's defeat means the 2011 champions must now beat Paraguay in their final group game to be certain of clinching a place in the last eight, although they could still reach the knockout phase as one of the best third-placed teams.

Tuesday's game between the 1930 FIFA World Cup™ finalists was the 199th encounter between the two South American rivals.

A tense first half had seen Argentina, surprisingly held to a 2-2 draw by Paraguay in their opening match, dominate possession and territory but fail to break down a resolute Uruguay defence. The two best chances of the period both fell to Gerardo Martino's men, with Manchester United winger Angel Di Maria testing Fernando Muslera in the ninth minute with an angled shot that the goalkeeper needed two attempts to gather. Muslera was pressed into action again midway through the half, producing a superb one-handed save to deny Aguero after he met Lionel Messi's sublime cross with a downward header.

Tensions began to rise thereafter, with Martino shown a red card by Brazilian referee Sandro Ricci in the 38th minute. On the stroke of half-time tempers flared once more with Argentina enforcer Javier Mascherano booked for sliding through Uruguay playmaker Nicolas Lodeiro, who had earlier seen yellow for a wild challenge on Zabaleta.

Uruguay carved out their best effort in the opening minutes of the second half, Maxi Pereira uncorking a fierce shot that Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero did well to clear.

With Messi being shadowed at every turn, it fell to others to break the deadlock and the game-changing moment came courtesy of Javier Pastore on 56 minutes. The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder showed sublime skill to release Zabaleta down the right, and the right-back took one touch before whipping in a cross to the near-post, met by Aguero to head home.

Uruguay, who entered the tournament without Luis Suarez, who is still suspended, were largely devoid of inspiration in attack, with Edinson Cavani largely anonymous.

But the holders were left ruing a glorious chance to equalise against the run of play in the 75th minute. Alvaro Perreira bludgeoned a shot goalwards that Romero was unable to control. The rebound fell invitingly for Diego Rolan but with the goal at his mercy from six yards out, the Bordeaux striker blazed over the bar.

Five-star Brazil cruise to the final

© Getty Images

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Brazil have booked their place in the FIFA U-20 World Cup final with a hugely impressive 5-0 victory over Senegal in Christchurch. The lopsided scoreline provided an accurate reflection of a match in which the South Americans were at their scintillating best, and their African opponents powerless to resist.
This last-four encounter was all but over inside seven minutes, in fact, with Senegal floored by two crushing early blows. The first was self-inflicted, with the luckless Andelinou Correa turning the ball into his own net in an attempt to cut out right-back Joao Pedro's low cross from the byline. And worse was to follow for Joseph Koto's side just a couple of minutes later. This time, there was no element of luck involved, with classy No10 Gabriel Jesus bursting from midfield and threading a lovely pass into the path of Marcos Guilherme. The Atletico Paranaense forward then obliged with an equally impressive finish, firing clinically into the net from just inside the box.
Brazil might have looked to protect their lead at this stage, but relying on defence doesn't appear to be in the mindset of a team reviving the great traditions of adventurous, attack-minded Seleção sides. By the 19th minute, and after Gabriel Jesus had struck the post with another fine effort, their lead had been stretched yet further.
Real Madrid's Jean Carlos showed fine skill on the left and delivered an inviting low cross that keeper Ibrahima Sy could reach, but not quite hold. When the ball ran loose, Boschilia took full advantage, swooping in decisively to slot home from close range.
Senegal did have moments of their own, and only a brilliant reflex save from Jean was enough to divert Sidy Sarr's ferociously struck volley on to the crossbar soon after. But Brazil retired to the dressing rooms at half-time assured of their place in the final, having made it 4-0 with eight minutes of the opening 45 remaining.
It was a terrific goal and, again, a full-back was at the heart of the attacking action. Jorge took centre stage on this occasion, drifting away from a couple of Senegalese challenges before slotting home a composed finish to put his team out of sight.
Already with an impossibly high mountain to climb, the Africans' task became tougher still in the closing stages of the half when they were reduced to ten men.  Elimane Cisse was already on a yellow card when he snapped into a rash challenge on Marcos Guilherme, and the ensuing red was both inevitable and just.
The pace dropped in the second period, with Brazil preserving energy and Senegal unable to muster any kind of comeback. But Marcos Guilherme remained lively and, after testing the reflexes of Sy from 20 yards, he wrapped up the win with a well-worked fifth goal.
Much of the credit on this occasion belonged to Boschilia, who provided an excellent assist. The midfielder had ghosted into the box and was in a good position to shoot, with only the keeper to beat, but saw his team-mate even better placed and passed unselfishly for Marcos Guilherme to fire into the unguarded net.
Brazil now march on to Auckland's North Harbour Stadium, where they will hope to secure a sixth U-20 World Cup title on Saturday against either Serbia or Mali.

Aguero eyes Ballon d’Or...Can he make it when MESSI and Ronaldo still play?

Sergio Aguero has no plans to leave the Premier League and believes he can push to win the Ballon d’Or with Manchester City.

Aguero finished top of the Premier League's scoring charts this season with 26 goals in 33 matches.
But his aspirations to take home the Ballon d’Or - the world footballer of the year award - would require breaking the seven-year stranglehold Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have had on the trophy. The last time someone other than the duo picked up the prize was Brazilian Kaka in 2007.
“The truth is that I would be very happy with the Ballon d’Or, I had a great year, I missed some games but the season has been very good,” Aguero said.
“The Premier League has this vision where they want everybody in the world to watch it so I have plenty of chances to at least be nominated for the Ballon d’Or.
“I think for any player it’s important. Playing in the Premier League obviously I have a lot of opportunities.”
And Aguero could be joined by a number of new team-mates next season with City owner Khaldoon Al Mubarak promising to bring in a host of “high quality” signings in an effort to improve on the disappointing finish to last season.
“Every year City try to improve the team and while I don’t know how it will be next season obviously the club always wants us to win titles," said Aguero.
"City are prepared to win titles every year, obviously the Champions League is a great competition and I think that City are doing everything to win it.
“The truth is yes, I’m very happy. I’m enjoying these four years that I’ve had at City and there are still many more years to come. I’m very happy.”
Aguero is competing against Harry Kane, Thibaut Courtois and Jordan Henderson, amongst a host of other top-flight players, to feature on the UK cover of the FIFA 16 video game. Fans will be able to vote for their favourite player from midday on June 16 at EAsports.com.

Leon Balogun quits  SV Darmstadt

Leon Balogun has bid farewell to SV Darmstadt 98 despite being offered a new contract by the newly promoted Bundesliga side.

The central defender cum right back, who turns 27 on June 28, was searching for a new team for several months before Darmstadt took a gamble by offering him a deal until the end of the 2014 - 2015 campaign.

“Leon has informed me that he is looking for a new challenge,” coach Schuster told Kicker.

“He has  thanked and informed us that he will not sign a new contract in Darmstadt.”

The Nigeria international is thought to be on the radar of other clubs in the Bundesliga and his preferred destination will be announced in a matter of days.

WHO IS THE BETTER RONALDO?

Buhari won’t save your job, Laloko warns Keshi

Former Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Association, Kasimawo Laloko, has warned Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, to put in his best, saying President Muhammadu Buhari would not save his job if he fails to get the ticket for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.
Keshi initially could not have his contract renewed after failing to help Nigeria qualify for the 2015 AFCON, but was reinstated reportedly on the orders of the Presidency under former President Goodluck Jonathan.
That reinstatement eventually led to the Nigeria Football Federation offering him a two-year contract amid intense controversy.
Laloko told journalists in Abeokuta shortly before the kick-off of Nigeria’s first AFCON qualifying match against Chad in Kaduna on Saturday that the NFF should sack Keshi at the earliest sign of failure.
He said, “We are not going to wait to qualify or not. If we see any sign of non-qualification today (Saturday), the coach should be sacked. We waited the last time and you saw what we got. I hope this time some godfathers will not sit somewhere and say let Laloko do the job. No, if Laloko does not do the job well, sack him immediately too.
“We did what was right; Keshi was sacked and somebody was threatening somebody from the Presidency. But it’s over now because President Muhammadu Buhari is always for the best. He won’t cover irresponsibility. And any coach who knows his onion won’t wait to be told, he just walks away. That was what we did when we were coaching.
“Before you are called, you resign that is what it means to be professional. The job is about hiring and firing. When they hire you, do the job. When you fail, resign. If you don’t resign you will be sacked.”
Laloko added that the Flying Eagles were unlucky to have crashed out in the round of 16 at the FIFA U20 World Cup and said the players should be encouraged as they prepare to join the senior teams.

Nigeria 2-0 Chad: Super Eagles start Afcon qualifying with victory

tephen Keshi's side were made to wait over an hour before breaking the deadlock on Saturday, Gbolahan Salami eventually finding a way through before Odion Ighalo doubled their advantage with his first international strike.

Watford striker Ighalo netted from the penalty spot with 11 minutes remaining, moments after team-mate Ogenyi Onazi had been sent off.

Keshi's side made a promising start to proceedings in Kaduna with the best of the early chances, but they lacked quality in the final third as Kingsley Madu and Musa Ahmed were both wasteful.

Chad were not overawed and should have been ahead after 17 minutes, but captain Marius Mbaiam's shot was deflected wide.

A half full of chances concluded with Salami firing straight at Mbaradji Dillah in the Chad goal, before Vincent Enyeama produced a fine reflex save to keep the scores level.

Eventually Nigeria's pressure told as Salami latched onto a loose ball in the penalty area and blasted high into the roof of the net from 12 yards.

Ighalo completed the win late on, but his penalty came after a skirmish following the awarding of the spot kick, Onazi lashing out as Chad's players remonstrated with the officials, earning himself a red card.

The delay did not affect substitute Ighalo's concentration, though, as he rolled the spot kick home to give Nigeria a winning start in Group G.

Ghana 7-1 Mauritius: Gyan and Jordan Ayew score twice in Black Stars romp

The pair ran riot as the Black Stars made light work of their latest Africa Cup of Nations qualifier

Asamoah Gyan and Jordan Ayew both scored twice as Ghana beat Mauritius 7-1 in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
Ghana were beaten on penalties by Ivory Coast in this year's final and they looked determined to make up for that heartache in Sunday's Group H fixture in Accra.
They had far too much quality for Mauritius, who have only reached the tournament once in their history, back in 1974.
After Christian Atsu put Ghana in front, Ayew netted his first and Gyan scored twice as the home side ran riot in the first half.
JS Piesie pulled one back for the visitors but Ayew doubled his tally seven minutes before half-time as Ghana head into the break firmly on top.
Mauritius put up more of a fight in the second period but Jeffrey Schlupp scored his first international goal and substitute David Accam netted in stoppage time to make it seven for Avram Grant's side.
The gulf in class became apparent in the early stages and Atsu broke the deadlock in the 10th minute by heading home Harrison Afful's cross.
Ayew tapped home a low cross six minutes later and midway through the half he turned provider for Gyan to claim his first of the game.
Gyan then headed in from a corner as Ghana raced into a 4-0 lead on the half-hour, but slack marking from a free-kick allowed Piesie to prod home and give the visitors something to shout about.
The four-goal lead was soon re-established, however, as Ayew capitalised on poor defensive work to fire home and midway through the second half, Schlupp's powerful left-footed strike flew into the bottom-right corner.
Gyan twice wasted golden opportunities to complete his hat-trick in the closing stages, before Accam swept home as the Black Stars began their qualifying campaign with an emphatic victory.

Torino Join Napoli In Race To Sign In - Demand Carpi Star Mbakogu

 
According to reports in the Italian press, Torino have joined the race for the much - coveted striker Jerry Mbakogu.

Tuttosport says the Turin - based outfit could use Italy youth international Vittorio Parigini as makeweight in the deal to bring the striker to the Stadio Olimpico in the summer.

Mbakogu’s 15 goals in 30 matches for Carpi in the second - tier last term did not go unnoticed by clubs overseas and the Serie A.

Apart from the interest from Turin, the Nigerian is on the wishlist on Napoli, Lokomotiv Moscow and Kuban.

It is thought that Carpi will do business with any club that can meet his asking price of around 8 million euros.

JOHN SHITTU Debunks False Reports Of Obi Mikel Agreeing Personal Terms With Al Ain

Jos - based agent Babawo Mohammed is not pleased with reports in the local media that claimed one of his proteges, Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel, has agreed personal terms with Al Ain.

The Nigeria international traveled to Dubai with his Russian girlfriend after The Blues post - season friendly against Sydney FC, which fueled speculation that he was in the country to thrash out terms with the United Arab Emirates side.



“You have asked me this before and I told you it’s just a clean lie. Please them it is a lie. Mikel has not agreed personal terms with Al Ain, ”Babawo Mohammed told allnigeriasoccer.com from New Zealand on Sunday morning.

Babawo Mohammed is credited with discovering Obi Mikel and he promptly recommended him to the Golden Eaglets coaches ahead of the 2003 Fifa Under 17 World Cup.

 Zlatan steals the show.

Austria, Spain, Switzerland and Sweden were all victorious in European Championship qualifying on Sunday, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic scoring a brace for the latter.

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Switzerland moved up to second behind England - who beat Slovenia 3-2 earlier in the day - in European qualifying Group E as they claimed a 2-1 comeback victory over Lithuania at Zalgiris Stadium.
Fedor Cernych handed the hosts a shock lead against the run of play midway through the second half, but Josip Drmic netted an equaliser five minutes later before Xherdan Shaqiri fired home a late winner to extend their unbeaten run to seven matches.
David Silva scored the only goal as Spain claimed a 1-0 win over Belarus in Group C.
The Manchester City midfielder hit the target on the stroke of half-time to keep Spain in second place behind Slovakia, who beat 10-man Macedonia 2-1 thanks to goals from Kornel Salata and Marek Hamsi.
Arijan Ademi scored a consolation effort in the second half before Macedonia were forced to finish the game with 10 men after Ferhan Hasani was dismissed for his second bookable offence.
Ukraine kept the pressure on the top two in Group C with a comfortable 3-0 victory from a dominant performance against Luxembourg in their clash at Arena Lviv on Sunday.
The home side began to apply the pressure early on but it took three second-half goals - from Artem Kravets, Denys Garmash and Yevhen Konoplyanka - to seal all three points to extend their unbeaten run to three matches.
Marc Janko scored a spectacular goal as Austria claimed a 1-0 win over Russia to maintain their grip at the top of the Group G standings in Sunday's Euro 2016 qualifier in Moscow.
Russia were guilty of not clearing the ball from their penalty area and Janko capitalised with an overhead effort to beat goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev from close range in the first half.
It meant Austria made it five wins and a draw in their qualifying campaign and kept them four points ahead of Sweden, who won their match against Montengro 3-1 at the Friends Arena in Solna.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored twice just before half-time after Marcus Berg headed the hosts ahead, with Dejan Damjanovic's second half penalty for Montenegro not enough to affect the outcome.
Estonia kept alive slim hopes of forcing their way into contention for a play-off place in Group E with a 2-0 Euro 2016 qualifying win over San Marino in Tallinn.
Sergei Zenjov netted a brace on his 100th appearance as Estonia moved up into fourth, just two points behind Slovenia, beaten at home by group leaders England, and Switzerland, who have played a match less.
Moldova picked up only the second point of their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign as they held Liechtenstein to a 1-1 draw in Vaduz.
The home side took the lead through Sandro Wieser's stunning opener before Gheorghe Boghiu equalised.