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Champions League Team of the Week: Matchday 2

The 35-year-old is set to work under a new trainer following his October switch to The Royals 

Asamoah Gyan will mark his Ghana Premier League return under a new coach after the club parted ways with Bosnian-German trainer Goran Barjaktarevic.

The Accra-based outfit has announced the development after days of media speculation about the coach’s future following the club's disappointing 3-0 loss to Great Olympics in the Ghana Premier League (GPL) on Friday.

The Royals have drawn one and lost one of two league games thus far. Gyan, though, is yet to make an appearance for the side due to match fitness concerns following his signing in October.

"Legon Cities announces that manager Goran Barjaktarevic has left the club with immediate effect," Cities have announced in a statement.

"The club would like to thank Goran for his services during his time at Legon Cities FC and to wish him success in the future.

"A new manager will announced in the coming days."

Barjaktarevic joined Cities ahead of the 2019-20 GPL season which was ultimately terminated midway due to outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic.

His team struggled throughout the campaign with an early battle with relegation, and eventually found themselves just one point and one spot above the drop zone after matchday 15 when the championship was truncated.

This term, The Royals' fortunes have not been any different as they settled for a 1-1 home draw with Berekum Chelsea in their league opener before falling heavily to Olympics on Friday.

Eleven Wonders coach Ignatius Osei Fosu, ex-Ghana and Cameroon assistant coach Ibrahim Tanko and former Asante Kotoko boss Bashir Hayford have all been linked to the vacant Cities job.

The club has had to do without marquee signing Gyan so far following his return to domestic club football for the first time in 17 years.

After leaving Liberty Professionals for Italian outfit Udinese in 2003, the 35-year-old has gone on to represent the likes of Sunderland, Kayserispor, Al Ain, Shainghai SIPG, Al Ahli Dubai and Indian Super League outfit NorthEast United.

He is currently Ghana's all-time top scorer and most capped player, having netted 51 times in 109 internationals. The forward also currently stands as Africa's all-time top scorer at the World Cup after reaching six goals (in all tournaments) during the 2014 event in Brazil

Original author: Prince Narkortu Teye

FC Goa 0-1 Mumbai City: Adam Le Fondre's late penalty secures win against 10-man Gaurs

Mumbai City had to wait until the added time to break the deadlock against a 10-man FC Goa...

Adam Le Fondre's late penalty (90+5') secured a win for Mumbai City against a 10-man FC Goa at the Fatorda Stadium in Goa on Wednesday. 

FC Goa were dominant and looked more likely to break the deadlock but a red card offence from Redeem Tlang at the end of the first half put the team in a spot of bother. Mumbai City couldn't find the opening even with the numerical advantage until Lenny Rodrigues handled the ball inside the box to allow Le Fondre to step up and convert the spot-kick. 

Both teams underwent a few changes after their winless starts to the season. Juan Ferrando made three alterations to the team which drew against Bengaluru FC. Saviour Gama, Redeem Tlang and Alberto Noguera replaced Sanson Pereira, Princeton Rebello and Jorge Ortiz.

Lobera, on the other hand, made four changes in Mumbai lineup as Amey Ranawade, Cy Goddard, Mourtada Fall and Farukh Choudhary came in place of Mohammed Rakip and Bartholomew Ogbeche, injured Raynier Fernandes and the suspended Ahmed Jahouh, 

Goa looked the dominant side in the first half as they enjoyed plenty of the ball and created several chances to score. They were more fluent in their gameplay compared to Mumbai who failed to settle into the game throughout the first half. Lobera missed Ahmed Jahouh’s services at the centre of the park as his team failed to create chances without the Moroccan midfielder dictating play. 

Igor Angulo came close to scoring his third goal of the season in the eighth minute of the match when he received pass inside the box from Alberto Noguera but his heavy first touch allowed Sarthak Golui to close the gap and block his effort.

After a stale period of play, the home team were jolted with a blow in the final few minutes of the first half when Redeem Tlang lunged into a tackle on Hernan Santana with a high foot. The awful tackle was punished with a red card, reducing Goa to 10 men. 

Goa were able to maintain the same momentum after the restart and continued to create chances. Angulo had an early chance after the break to score the opening goal. After receiving a pass from Len Doungel at the centre of the pitch, the forward did well to dribble through the middle and skip past Fall but his effort from the edge of the box rolled wide. 

They once again got a chance to break the deadlock in the 60th minute. Lenny Rodrigues whipped in a cross into the box and Ivan Gonzalez attempted a shot. Goalkeeper Amrinder Singh produced a stunning reflex save to keep the scoreline intact. 

The easiest chance of the match fell to Mandar Rao Dessai who had an empty net in front of him when Le Fondre drilled a low cross into the box from the right but the former Goa skipper couldn't connect properly and ended up sending the ball into the stands. 

Lobera's side finally scored in the dying minutes of the match after Lenny Rodrigues handled the ball inside the box and gave away a penalty. Le Fondre scored his maiden ISL goal from the spot and secured three points for his team. 

Original author: Ritabrata Banerjee

Ochola to Rachier: Gor Mahia letter to FKF on StarTimes deal valid and will stand

The official maintains his communication to the federation on the position of K’Ogalo on the sponsorship arrangements remains authentic

Gor Mahia Secretary-General Sam Ochola has stated his letter authorising the StarTimes partnership deal stands overruling the club’s chairman Ambrose Rachier.

In a presser on Tuesday, Rachier suspended Ochola for endorsing the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and StarTimes deal claiming he did so without consulting other officials.

In response, Ochola has maintained he signed the letter as he is empowered by the statutes that have established his office.

“I am the custodian of the communication in the club and Head of the Secretariat for all the club’s dealings. The letter signed on behalf of Gor Mahia to FKF stands and will remain valid,” Ochola said in a document obtained by Goal.

“Guided under articles 2 (b), 11 (a), 19, 79 (a) (c) and 81 of the FKF constitution, coupled with limited time, before the league's kick-off and of course participation in the Champions League this weekend in Rwanda, I signed the document in good faith and absolute fairness to our beloved club as the Secretary-General.”

The newly-elected official further revealed what pushed him to sign the letter that has now threatened the team that is preparing for the Caf Champions League.

“Yes, I signed the document,” Ochola added. “We had numerous discussions in the Executive Committee members’ meeting where we resolved to sign the club to the newly created FKF Premier League,” he added.

“Gor Mahia are participating in local and international football courtesy of FKF as the representative of Fifa in Kenya. Should Gor Mahia stop playing football because of an individual? No.

“It was never because I was being coerced, cajoled or blackmailed as the chairman purported yesterday. I have signed many documents for Gor Mahia as the Secretary-General and Head of the club’s Secretariat including contractual ones and I wonder whether these are also illegal under Article 15 of the club.”

The Secretary-General also shed more light on the contentious issue of the money the clubs are set to receive from the FKF-StarTimes partnership.

“The chairman alleged that FKF has not disclosed the amount of cash in the StarTimes partnership,” he concluded.

“This is the summary; every club gets KSh10 million for league participation, the sponsor also footing bills on branding, pays for referees, and covers production cost.

“Today, the chairman of Gor Mahia, who also doubles up as the chairman of KPL, knows that KPL gives a fraction of this sponsorship.

“Gor Mahia are broke! We want to gather any available monetary support to reduce the gaping operational cost even if there are no kickbacks to individuals; it is for the sake of the club.”

Original author: Kiplagat Sang

'Ozil could get into any team in the Premier League' - Wilshere 'surprised' by Arteta's stance on Arsenal midfielder

A former Emirates Stadium favourite doesn't think the German is being left out of the Gunners squad for footballing reasons

Mesut Ozil "could get into any team in the Premier League", according to Jack Wilshere, who is "surprised" by Mikel Arteta's stance on the Arsenal midfielder.

Ozil has racked up 254 appearances for Arsenal since moving to Emirates Stadium from Real Madrid for a then-club record fee of £42 million ($56m) in 2013, scoring 44 goals while also providing an impressive 77 assists.

However, the ex-Germany international's last outing for the Gunners came during a 1-0 win over West Ham on March 7, with Arteta taking the decision to exile the playmaker from his squad following the three-month coronavirus-enforced break in the 2019-20 season.

The 31-year-old didn't see a single minute of action as Arsenal secured an eighth-place top-flight finish and a record-extending 14th FA Cup triumph, and his fortunes have not improved at the start of the new campaign.

Arteta left Ozil out of his final Premier League and Europa League squads in October, prompting the ex-Madrid star to question the club's loyalty in a passionate rant on social media.

He admitted to being saddened by his current situation, but also pledged to keep fighting for his place heading into the final eight months of his current contract.

Wilshere doesn't think Ozil is being left out of the Gunners team for footballing reasons, and has insisted that his old team-mate is still capable of playing for any of the top teams in English football.

"Yes, I am [surprised], because I played with him and I used to love playing with him," the former Arsenal talisman told The ITV Football Football Show.

"I really enjoyed it and he is one of the best I have played with, so, yes, I am surprised. But there is obviously something that we don't know because a player of his quality [should be playing].

"I reckon he could get into any team in the Premier League, that is my opinion, and to not even have the opportunity to compete for a place is difficult to understand.

"But there must be a reason, I don't know."

Wilshere also rejected the notion of laziness being one of the main factors behind Ozil's continued omission, pointing out that the German's work off the ball often went unnoticed during his time at the club.

"You look at the number 10s and a lot of them run in behind, they do a lot of work without the ball and the luxury players don't," he added.

"Look, Ozil... there was a lot of shouts about him being lazy, but I have never found him to be lazy.

"I know this is easy to say, but if you looked at his stats after a game, he wasn't at the bottom of it. He is also pretty quick, surprisingly."

‘If Blue Bulls are Liverpool, maybe Western Province are Orlando Pirates' - Hlungwani

The Buccaneers have been compared with a rugby team as the 2020 Currie Cup season starts this weekend

Western Province assistant coach Rito Hlungwani says they are the Orlando Pirates of South African rugby.

Hlungwani was responding to their rivals Blue Bulls' head coach Jake White, who recently compared his side to English giants Liverpool FC and Manchester United.

“I’m very happy. I signed for this franchise on the basis that they are a sleeping giant,” White said on IOL after guiding Bulls to the 2020 Super Rugby Unlocked title over the weekend. 

“This is one of the best franchises in the world – this is the Liverpool or the Manchester United of rugby. You look at the teams around the world and the Bulls will be up there.

“You look at the Real Madrids, Juventuses, Liverpools or Man Uniteds, if you went to the top five or six, seven rugby clubs in the world, this would be one of them."

The Bulls are one of the giants of South African rugby and they are co-owned by Mamelodi Sundowns president Patrice Motsepe with the mining magnet having bought 37% of the franchise 12 months ago.

The Pretoria-based giants are set to take on Western Province in the opening round of the 2020 Currie Cup season at Newlands Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday afternoon.

Hlungwani has taken a bit of a dig at White by stating that Liverpool struggled for 30 years before finally clinching the league title during the 2019/20 season.

“I just would like to say I do like a bit of soccer myself, so I think Province might be compared to Orlando Pirates,” Hlungwani said in a press conference. 

“It must be nice for them [the Bulls] to compare themselves to Liverpool, who struggled for 30 years to win anything.

"Liverpool have a good coach in Jurgen Klopp. I mean Up the Bucs if anything."

Pirates are one of the biggest football teams in the country and they were the first PSL club to have won three major trophies in a single season back-to-back between 2010 and 2012. 

Watch Hlungwani's response to White below: 

 

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo

PlayStation 5 stock: Can I play FIFA 21 on PS5 before Christmas?

The new console sold out on launch day, but some retailers expect to have more units in stock in time for the holiday period

The PlayStation 5 is one of the most in-demand presents for Christmas 2020 and the holiday period.

As a result, pre-orders everywhere sold out in minutes, while launch day saw retail websites crash as so many people tried to get on and buy any stock which hadn't been pre-ordered.

Many people were disappointed as launch day stock sold out almost instantly as well, but there is still hope that new stock will arrive before the end of the year.

This always leaves FIFA fans in a bind as they wait to get their hands on the new console before playing next-generation FIFA 21.

Contents

When does FIFA 21 launch on PlayStation 5? Will old versions of FIFA work on PlayStation 5? Do I have to buy another version of FIFA 21 for PlayStation 5? When is the PlayStation 5 back in stock? How much does the PlayStation 5 cost? Where can I buy a PlayStation 5 before Christmas?

When is FIFA 21 released for PlayStation 5?

FIFA 21 will be released on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X on Friday, December 4, 2020.

It was released on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One on Friday October 9.

The game will be available through the PlayStation Store as well as in a physical edition that can be bought from retailers.

However, as there are two different versions of the PlayStation 5, only the more expensive model comes with a disc drve to allow you to play physical games.

You must buy the downloadable version of FIFA 21 if you wish to play it on the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition.

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Can I play older versions of FIFA on PlayStation 5?

The PlayStation 5 is backwards compatible with the majority of PlayStation 4 games, so you will be able to play previous editions of FIFA on PlayStation 5.

Any PlayStation 4 game that you have bought through the Store or downloaded can be re-downloaded onto the new console.

If you have the disc edition of the PlayStation 5, you can also play using the physical copies of PlayStation 4 games.

However, PlayStation 3 and older games cannot be played on the new console, meaning you can only play games from FIFA 14 onwards.

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Do I have to buy another version of FIFA 21 for PlayStation 5?

If you have already bought FIFA 21 on PlayStation 4, you will not need to purchase it again on PlayStation 5.

EA Sports is offering a Dual Entitlement package which means you can easily upgrade from the PS4 version to the PS5 verson of FIFA 21 at no extra cost.

You can upgrade by inserting the PlayStation 4 disc into the PlayStation 5 or else simply download automatically from the Store after logging in to the PlayStation Network.

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When is the PlayStation 5 back in stock?

Retailers in the UK are hopeful of having more PlayStation 5 stock in December 2020.

All pre-ordered and launch day stock sold out very quickly with Sony Interactive Entertainment chief Jim Ryan confirming: “Everything is sold. Absolutely everything is sold.”

US retail giant Walmart hopes to have PlayStation 5 consoles back in stock for Black Friday, November 27, while GameStop in America has also confirmed that they will have limited stock available on November 27.

Currys in the UK says it is "working very hard" to get more stock, while toy store Smyths says that more stock is coming in December, but has not given an exact date.

It has been the "biggest console launch ever" for PlayStation, with eager gamers keen to get their hands on the device.

A message from PlayStation said: "Demand for PS5 is unprecedented, so we wanted to confirm that more PS5 inventory will be coming to retailers before the end of the year - please stay in touch with your local retailers."

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How much does the PlayStation 5 cost?

PS5 version UK price US price
Standard £449.99 $499.99
Digital £359.99 $399.99

There are two different versions of the PlayStation 5, with the standard edition having a disc drive where you can play PS5, PS4 games and DVDs.

The Digital Edition of the PlayStation 5 is £90 cheaper than the disc version in the UK and $100 cheaper in the US. However, on the Digital Edition, you can only play downloaded games and movies.

Most downloaded games purchased on PlayStation 4 can be played on PlayStation 5, while you need a disc version of the PS5 to play any physical PS4 games.

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Where can I buy a PlayStation 5 before Christmas?

No retailer has given a definite date for PlayStation 5 stock returning in December, but many have told shoppers to keep an eye on their websites and social media channels over the next few weeks.

It is expected that new stock will arrive in both the UK and US before the holiday period, with some retailers such as Walmart even optimistic that they will have PlayStation 5s available on Black Friday.

*Note that PS5 stock availability will vary between retailer and some outlets have suspended orders while demand is catered for.

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Original author: Ronan Murphy

Video: Nivea Men Football Insight - Inter vs Real Madrid

Video: Nivea Men - Five Real Madrid Facts | Goal.com

UEFA Champions League

15:23 GMT 25/11/2020

Hakimi Eden Hazard Real Madrid Inter Champions League

Goal.com & Nivea link up to bring you these five exclusive facts ahead of the Inter Milan vs Real Madrid Uefa Champions League encounter

Original author: Goal

Gustavsson's 'line in the sand' moment: Pressure on Matildas to deliver vs. Canada

A former Blues midfielder heaped praise upon the Frenchman after seeing him net the winning goal against Rennes in the Champions League

Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud is "one of the Premier League's most underrated players", according to Joe Cole.

Giroud headed home his second goal of the season to give Chelsea a 2-1 win away at Rennes in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

The 34-year-old's late effort booked the Blues a place in the round of 16, and he could now be in contention to feature when Frank Lampard's men play host to Tottenham in Sunday's London derby.

Giroud has been restricted to just four top-flight appearances this term, all from the substitutes' bench, having fallen behind summer signing Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham in the squad pecking order.

The Frenchman wasn't given the chance to build on his impressive post-lockdown form in 2019-20 - a period in which he managed to hit eight goals in 11 matches - but Lampard insisted he still has an important role to play after his star turn against Rennes.

Cole is in awe of how Giroud has remained so consistent in front of goal since moving to Stamford Bridge from Arsenal in January 2018, and thinks Lampard will try to keep the veteran striker happy so that he stays in west London beyond the winter transfer window.

“I think he’s one of the Premier League’s most underrated players, he consistently performs whether it be for Arsenal or Chelsea,” the former Blues midfielder told BT Sport.

“It’s not just moments like today such as getting the winning goal, it’s his general demeanour around the place, he’s a good player in the dressing room.

“There’s a reason why Didier Deschamps relies on him for France. Frank will not want Giroud walking out of the door in January.

“It was a great header from Giroud. That was amazing.”

Cole also reserved special praise for Mason Mount, who provided the assist for Callum Hudson-Odoi to open the scoring at Roazhon Park.

“He’s a manager’s dream. He’s in that bracket when he gets on the pitch and he gets on with it, he does what’s required in the moment," he added.

"He’s everywhere on the pitch, but on top of that, he’s a genius as well - he can make something happen, he can score a goal, make a pass, he’s so down to earth.

"He makes that (assist vs Newcastle) look easy, but he’s fizzed that into an area where Fernandez has no option but to put it in his own goal. He does the right thing with the football at all times, he’s well-schooled, he’s a great lad.

"He’s a mainstay now for Chelsea and England, for me.”

Dani Carvajal expected to miss rest of season with injury

The Namibia international’s impact has immediately been felt after arriving at the Brazilians in September

Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Mohammed Ouseb says the warm welcome Peter Shalulile received at Mamelodi Sundowns was key to the forward's high start to life at Chloorkop where more can be expected from him.

Shalulile arrived at Downs from Highlands Park at the beginning of this season to quickly establish himself as a starter and has managed two Premier Soccer League (PSL) goals and an assist in four matches.

He has appeared in every match Sundowns has played this term as he also featured in the MTN8 quarter-finals defeat by Bloemfontein Celtic.

The Namibia forward’s bright start points at him again contending for the PSL Golden Boot award he won last season after managing 16 goals to become joint top-scorer with Orlando Pirates forward Frank Mhango.

Ouseb says finding a welcoming environment at Sundowns has helped Shalulile feel at home, something he feels has added quality to his game as he insists that more is coming from the striker.

“I remember one particular year when I and Woody Jacobs took those boys [Namibia Under-20] to Ghana as part of our U-20 national team training camp, it was there when I got the opportunity to see and work with Peter and there was no doubt that the boy was headed for the bigger stage,” said Ouseb as per Far Post.

“He is hard-working, humble and is an all-rounder. The young man is a workhorse and a player any coach can rely on. I really also have to say the way that Sundowns welcomed him also made it easier for Peter to settle down and the team’s style of play also fits very well with how Peter moves and positions himself.

“Sundowns is the perfect fit for him and I can only encourage him to keep going, he’s only getting started.”

Shalulile appears to have struck an understanding with midfielder Themba Zwane as well as fellow new arrival Kermit Erasmus.

The trio’s impressive showing has so far seen Sundowns not showing signs of missing the injured Uruguayan duo of Gaston Sirino and Mauricio Affonso as well as Sibusiso Vilakazi.

With Sirino being heavily linked with a move to Al Ahly, Lebohang Maboe, Vilakazi, Affonso and Lesedi Kapinga could act as back-up to the Shalulile-Zwane-Erasmus partnership.

Original author: Michael Madyira

Galiwango to wear jersey number three as Vipers unveil full squad

The Venoms have unleashed their full squad as they get ready to defend the league title and take part in Caf
Original author: Dennis Mabuka

Alderweireld injury boost as Mourinho gives update after Tottenham defender forced off against Man City

The Portuguese boss has revealed that the Belgian defender's muscular issue is not as bad as originally feared

Tottenham have been handed an injury boost heading into the Christmas period, with Jose Mourinho delivering a positive update on Toby Alderweireld after seeing him forced off against Manchester City.

Alderweireld hobbled off holding his groin in the latter stages of Spurs' 2-0 home victory over City on Saturday, with summer signing Joe Rodon coming on in his place for the final few minutes.

Asked whether the Belgian's knock was a serious one, Mourinho told Sky Sports post-match: "I would say so.

"I just feel sorry for Toby. He did a fantastic performance, he has an important injury. It's the injury of fatigue."

It was initially feared that a man who has played a key role in Tottenham's rise to the Premier League summit would be out of action until late December, leaving Mourinho short on centre-back options at a potentially pivotal stage of the season.

However, the Portuguese has now revealed that Alderweireld's recovery time will likely be quicker than originally expected, and he could return to the pitch just in time to help Spurs negotiate their way through a congested festive fixture list.

"Toby has a muscular injury but not as big as we initially thought," Mourinho told a press conference ahead of a Europa League meeting with Ludogorets on Thursday night.

"He will have his time to be out but not like a month, which was immediately what we thought. I'd say between two and four weeks."

Alderweireld will be forced to sit out Spurs' latest European clash, and will also be unavailable for selection when they make the short trip across London to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Mourinho's side are currently sitting two points clear of the Blues at the top of the Premier League standings, having recorded six wins, two draws and only one defeat from their opening nine games.

Tottenham are already being tipped to dethrone Liverpool after their bright start to the campaign, and Tim Sherwood has been among those to lavish praise on their current manager for the way he has brought the best out of a squad that had previously been lacking in confidence.

“Jose has brainwashed his players to believe they have to work to achieve something – they need to win trophies, this group of players," the ex-Spurs midfielder said earlier this week.

“And why wouldn’t you believe in him? He’s won 20 major trophies in his career and you’re winning football matches, so then you start believing that this guy is the real deal, he knows what he’s talking about, and why can’t we win the league?"

Broke Gor Mahia stranded for APR clash, FKF ready to buy them tickets

The Kenyan champions are yet to secure travel tickets for their trip to Kigali for the first leg match on Saturday

Gor Mahia are stranded in Nairobi and could miss their trip to Kigali to face APR in the preliminary match of the Caf Champions League on Saturday.

Suspended club official Sam Ochola has confirmed in a signed statement the club is broke and that players did not turn out for training on Wednesday.

“Gor Mahia is broke! We want to gather any available monetary support we can to reduce our gaping operational costs, even if there are no kickbacks to us, individuals - it is for the sake of the club,” Ochola wrote in the statement obtained by Goal.

“FKF was to disburse Sh3million immediately to enable Gor Mahia to travel to Rwanda, a mandatory Covid-19 test was also to be carried out today [Wednesday] at 3 pm but players are on strike as we speak.”

Goal can now reveal the team’s plans to travel to Rwanda on Wednesday have hit a snag because they are yet to purchase tickets and test players and officials for Covid-19.

Another source who did not want to be named has told Goal the team can only travel on Friday as there are no flights to Rwanda on Thursday.

“I am very disappointed and cannot call this my club, the club I love because I fear that the club standards are going down,” said the source.

“The players have not trained today [Wednesday] because they are asking for money, they have not been paid and also even the mandatory test for Covid-19 for the travelling party has not been conducted, I fear APR will beat us.”

When reached for comment, FKF, CEO Barry Otieno told Goal they are ready to help the clubs secure tickets and travel for the first match in Kigali, but only if they write to them formally.

“We have been informed of Gor Mahia’s situation and are ready to cover for the team’s air tickets to Rwanda using funds from FKF Premier League sponsors,” Otieno told Goal on Wednesday.

“The federation’s proposal has been shared with Gor Mahia club officials and we are awaiting feedback from them.”

The last time Gor Mahia played against APR was in 2008 during the Confederation Cup where the army side beat K'Ogalo 6-0 on aggregate.

Original author: Dennis Mabuka

'Martial's not a good centre-forward' - Scholes remains unconvinced by 'moody' Man Utd star

The Red Devils legend has been critical of the Frenchman in the past, with his display against Istanbul Basaksehir doing little to change his opinion

Paul Scholes has reiterated his belief that Anthony Martial is not capable of being Manchester United's main striker, insisting that he doesn't possess the necessary attributes to play in the role on a regular basis.

The France international featured in United's 4-1 win over Istanbul Basaksehir although failed to make a significant impact, with Bruno Fernandes proving to be the star of the show as he netted two goals from midfield.

Martial has often been Solskjaer's first choice to occupy the number nine position in the 2020-21 campaign, although Edinson Cavani was given the chance to prove his fitness in the Champions League match at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.

The Uruguayan forward attracted widespread praise for his tireless running over the 90 minutes although there is every chance that the United boss will move Martial back to the centre-forward role for the trip to Southampton in the Premier League on Sunday.

Scholes, though, isn't convinced that Martial is capable of playing the position effectively, insisting that he lacks the required movement, as well the ability to play with his back to goal, to be able flourish in that role.

He told BT Sport: "Martial's strength... we’ve spoke about him being a centre-forward, he's not a good centre-forward.

"I don’t think he's got that movement for centre-forward, he's not good with his back to goal. But when he gets the ball and he's facing someone, it's a different position. You see him going at someone."

When asked if Martial relies heavily on confidence, Scholes added: "Definitely. He's a little bit moody and you see him. But once he gets a goal there's every chance he'll go on to get three or four."

It's not the first time that United legend Scholes has questioned Martial's performances, with the 46-year-old having claimed back in October that the former Monaco star had "almost conned us" into thinking he was a top central striker.

Indeed, after scoring 23 goals across all competitions last season, Martial has managed just two in the 2020-21 campaign up to now, with both of them coming in the Champions League.

Original author: Stephen Darwin

Kekana dedicates Fifa Puskas award nomination to late Ngcongca

The Mamelodi Sundowns skipper will challenge Luis Suarez, Andre-Pierre Gignac and Heung-min Son for the prestigious Fifa award

Hlompho Kekana has dedicated his Fifa Puskas award nomination to former Mamelodi Sundowns teammate Anele Ngcongca.

The former Genk right back who was set to be unveiled by Amazulu on Monday evening, passed away tragically following a car accident in Durban.

In a touching post on Twitter, the Downs skipper says his shortlist for the prestigious award is for the former South Africa international.

“As a club we are still mourning the loss of our brother. In training we feel it. Amidst the sadness, it is difficult to process this, and I have to dedicate this nomination to my brother #16 Anele Ngcongca,” Kekana tweeted.

The 35-year-old’s long-range screamer in the Brazilians’ 1-1 draw against Cape Town City on August 20, 2019 made the cut alongside Tottenham Hotspur’s Son Heung-min, Atletico Madrid’s Luis Suarez, Caroline Weir (Manchester City), Leonel Quinonez (Universidad Catolica, Zlatko Junuzoic (Rapid Wien), Sophie Ingle (Arsenal Women), Andre-Pierre Gignac (UANL Tigres), Shirley Cruz (Costa Rica women), Jordan Flores (Shamrock Rovers) and Giorgian De Arrascaeta (Ceara SC).

This is not the first time Kekana would be listed for the accolade after his goal for South Africa versus Cameroon in March 2016 was considered for that year’s prize. Nevertheless, he did not win the award.

“The winner of the Fifa Puskas Award will be selected by an international jury comprising a panel of Fifa legends and by the fans from all over the world registered on fifa.com. Each of the two groups of voters within the jury has the same electoral weight,” Fifa wrote in a statement.

Voting is already open and will close on December 9 with the three finalists revealed two days later.

Winner will be crowned at The Best Fifa Football Awards on December 17 and the 2020 winner will replace Hungarian Daniel Zsori, who won it last year.

Meanwhile, Liverpool duo of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane will compete for the Best Fifa Men's Player alongside Barcelona's Lionel Messi, Paris Saint-Germain's Kylian Mbappe and Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo.

Original author: Shina Oludare

ISL 2020-21 LIVE: FC Goa vs Mumbai City FC

FC Goa XI: Mohammad Nawaz; Seriton Fernandes, Ivan Gonzalez, James Donachie, Saviour Gama; Edu Bedia (C), Lenny Rodrigues; Len Doungel, Alberto Noguera, Redeem Tlang; Igor Angulo.

Lineups are in.

Hello and welcome to the Live match centre of today's Indian Super League clash between FC Goa and Mumbai City FC at the Fatorda Stadium, Goa.

Original author: Anselm Noronha

'I'm an Arsenal man!' - Wilshere admits Emirates return would be a 'dream'

The former England international says he would jump at the chance to rejoin the Gunners, but doubts the opportunity will ever present itself

Jack Wilshere has admitted he is still an "Arsenal man" and that returning to Emirates Stadium would be a "dream".

Wilshere spent ten years in Arsenal's senior squad after signing his first professional contract in 2008, racking up 198 appearances for the club across all competitions.

The former England international contributed 14 goals and 30 assists to the Gunners' cause in total, but ultimately failed to live up to his potential due to a series of injury problems.

Wilshere eventually decided to leave the Emirates in the summer of 2018, having grown frustrated by a lack of regular minutes, and subsequently joined West Ham on a three-year deal.

The midfielder's fitness struggles continued at the London Stadium as he only featured in 19 games across two seasons, and his contract was eventually cancelled by mutual consent last month.

The 28-year-old has been on the lookout for a new club ever since, and although he has welcomed the prospect of undertaking a new challenge abroad, Scottish Premiership leaders Rangers are reportedly leading the race for his signature.

Wilshere says Arsenal would be his first-choice next destination because he remains an avid supporter of the club, but the experienced playmaker acknowledges the fact it is unlikely the north London outfit will look to bring him back.

The ex-Gunners star told the ITV Football Football Show when quizzed on the possibility of a return to the Emirates: "Listen, you never know. I'm an Arsenal man. There's nothing, I've not spoken to anyone or anything but that would be the dream.

"I'm not stupid to know that there's probably no chance of it happening but I'm an Arsenal man, I love the club and want to see the club do well."

Wilshere was also asked how he thinks Mikel Arteta has fared in his first year in the Arsenal hot seat, to which he responded: “I’ve heard he’s really good, a lot of people who were there when I was there have left, but a few are still there.

“He’s really hands on, it’s really coach-led, is what I’ve heard, he knows what he wants and where he wants his players to be. He wants hard work every session and I think you can see that when he first came in.”

Olunga on target as Kashiwa Reysol bounce back with win over Kashima Antlers

The goal is the 25th for the Kenya international who is a clear front runner in the Golden Boot award race in Japan

Kenya international Michael Olunga scored his 25th goal in the 2020 J1 League season when Kashiwa Reysol defeated Kashima Antlers 4-1 on Wednesday.

Leo Silva’s and Kim Seung-Gyu's own goals were among the goals that were scored in the mid-week encounter.

Olunga, Yuta Kamiya, and Cristiano da Silva were the other scorers as Kashima Antlers played their 30th game while Kashiwa Reysol engaged in their 27th match.

Silva’s 26th-minute own goal gave Kashiwa Reysol a lead but it was cancelled out by Kim Seung- Gyu’s own goal in the 56th minute.

Olunga handed a lead to Kashia Reysol in the 75th minute as he scored his 25th goal of the season.

This is the second straight time the Kenya international has scored since resuming actions after they were forced into self-isolation when their camp reported six coronavirus positives in late October.

The Harambee Star was also on target when Kashiwa Reysol went down 2-1 to Sagan Tosu on November 21.

Da Silva added the third in the 83rd minute with an assist from Ataru Esaka, who had also helped Olunga score a few minutes before.

Kamiya scored the fourth for Kashiwa Reysol in the first minute of added time to hand the 2019 J2 League champions a big win. The victory is the first for Olunga’s side after they had failed to win in the last two games.

November is turning out to be another good month for Olunga, who is chasing the Golden Boot award. In October he was named in the team of the month after his exploits for the club given the number of goals he amassed.

The former Girona striker missed Kenya’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Comoros in earlier this month after some of his teammates and head coach returned positive coronavirus tests.

The Harambee Stars picked up just a point from the double-header as they drew 1-1 at home before they lost 2-1 in the second game.

As his Golden Boot award dream remains very much alive, Olunga will be in action against Vegalta Sendai on December 1.

Kawasaki Frontale have been declared winners of the league title already given they lead with 75 points, 17 more than Gamba Osaka who are second with four matches to go.

Original author: Kiplagat Sang

Benzema 'shocked' by France squad call up

The ex-Ajax star has endured a slow start since his £40 million ($55m) move to Old Trafford last summer, but was dominant on Tuesday night

Donny van de Beek says he is comfortable playing wherever Ole Gunnar Solskjaer needs him in Manchester United's midfield following an impressive display during the 4-1 Champions League victory over Istanbul Basaksehir.

Van de Beek has had to be patient since his £40 million ($55m) move to Old Trafford, but was dominant during the European clash on Tuesday night.

Deployed in a deeper role alongside Fred, the Dutchman's discipline in that area allowed Bruno Fernandes to be freed up to excel further up the pitch.

Fernandes scored twice in the opening 20 minutes as United dominated in midfield, and Van de Beek said he is happy to play further back should that be what Solskjaer requires.

“It worked really well,” Van de Beek told MUTV . “Some games I play No.10 and sometimes the coach needs me in the control position. That is fine for me because before, when I played at Ajax, I was playing in those positions, so it is okay.”

United now need only one point to qualify for the Champions League knockout stages from their final two group-stage games, having recovered from a shock defeat away to Basaksehir in the third match of the group.

Van de Beek was pleased with United's reaction to the 2-1 defeat in Turkey, but admitted their second-half performance - in which Basaksehir scored a free-kick and hit the crossbar as they threatened to get back in the match - was not acceptable.

He said: “It was a good reaction from the away game. [To win] 4-1 at home I think you can be happy.

“The first half was really good especially the first 30 minutes and we played nice football and scored nice goals. In the second half we lost too many balls and gave them some chances but the last five minutes we controlled the game again.

“We had some chances in the second half to make the fourth goal before we did but we lost too many balls, and then the control of the game you lose that. It was not good from our side.”

United now only need to avoid defeat at home to PSG or away to RB Leipzig to advance.

“It is not finished but we are in a good position. We need to keep working and everything will be fine," Van de Beek said.

Ssimbwa looking to maintain URA FC's surprising position at the top

Which goal will be the best of the year? The Tottenham forward and the former Barcelona striker are in the mix for the gong

Luis Suarez and Heung-min Son are among the nominees for the FIFA Puskas Award 2020 with the field narrowed down to 11 nominees ahead of The Best awards ceremony.

The award, which is given to the player who scored the best goal of the year, is truly global and nominees can be found across the world at all levels of competition.

Icons such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Cristiano Ronaldo, Mohamed Salah and Neymar populate the list of previous winners, but the beauty of the competition allows more obscure goals to receive global recognition.

So who are this year's Puskas Award nominees? We have listed all the goals for you to watch below, as well as the details on how to vote.

Puskas Award nominees:

Shirley Cruz vs Panama Giorgian de Arrascaeta vs Ceara SC Jordan Flores vs Shamrock Rovers Andre-Pierre Gignac vs Pumas Sophie Ingle vs Arsenal Women Zlatko Junuzovic vs Rapid Wien Hlompho Kekana vs Cape Town City Leonel Quinonez vs Universidad Catolica Heung-min Son vs Burnley Luis Suarez vs Mallorca Caroline Weir vs Man Utd Women

Shirley Cruz | Costa Rica vs Panama | January 28, 2020

Click here to watch the video.

Giorgian de Arrascaeta | Flamengo vs Ceara SC | August 25, 2019

Click here to watch the video.

Jordan Flores | Dundalk vs Shamrock Rovers | February 28, 2020

Click here to watch the video.

Andre-Pierre Gignac | Tigres vs Pumas | March 1, 2020

Click here to watch the video.

Sophie Ingle | Chelsea Women vs Arsenal Women | January 19, 2020

Click here to watch the video.

Zlatko Junuzovic | Red Bull Salzburg vs Rapid Wien | June 24, 2020

Click here to watch the video.

Click here to watch the video.

Leonel Quinonez | Macara vs Universidad Catolica | August 19, 2019

Click here to watch the video.

Heung-min Son | Tottenham vs Burnley | December 7, 2019

Click here to watch the video.

Luis Suarez | Barcelona vs Mallorca | December 7, 2019

Click here to watch the video.

Caroline Weir | Man City Women vs Man Utd Women | September 7, 2019

Click here to watch the video.

Which goal gets your vote?

You can take part in the The Best FIFA Puskas Award poll on FIFA's official vote here.

Voting is open until December 9, 2020 and the winner will be announced at The Best awards ceremony in Zurich on December 17, 2020.

Original author: Ryan Kelly

Chelsea to Offer Michy Batshuayi New Contract Before Loan Exit

The 30-year-old has started every Amakhosi match this season but has failed to reproduce his old form

Former Zimbabwe captain Peter Ndlovu says fatigue could be creeping into Kaizer Chiefs star Khama Billiat’s game, causing loss of form, and suggests that the player needs rest.

Since arriving at Kaizer Chiefs from Mamelodi Sundowns in June 2018, Billiat has struggled to play the football that saw him being crowned the 2016 PSL Player of the Season as well as earning him a nomination for the 2016 Caf African Player of the Year.

Eleven goals and 10 assists in all competitions in his debut Chiefs season were followed by just three goals and two assists last term.

After starting eight games for Chiefs across all competitions this campaign, Billiat has not a single goal to his name but has managed four assists.

His statistics in Amakhosi colours are a far cry from the numbers he posted while at Sundowns, especially during the 2015/16 season.

“He has played lot of football, that what we must know also, loss of form is caused by too much football, and must be aligned with rest,’’ said Ndlovu as per The Herald.

“There are a lot of things going around a player, involving fatigue and mental [issues], but loss of form is just a temporary thing, but it’s how you come back. How I managed all these things, during my playing days, was you look at what can bring you back into the game, so you have to contribute for the team, with or without the ball.”

Billiat’s struggles have even seen him being benched by Zimbabwe coach Zdravko Logarusic when the Warriors faced Algeria for a 2022 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Harare last week.

Despite such a rare scenario to start from the Zimbabwean bench, Ndlovu believes that his compatriot will bounce back from the loss of form.

“And, you have to actually play for the team, so Khama will do that and he is going to do that. I hope this message helps him get through anything, and it’s not only from me but also his teammates, and also his captain in the national team, and other players around him," Ndlovu said.

“You know, when you have a good player, you always pat him and say ‘come on boy we need you now,’ and they will feel the importance, they feel that they are very important and will rise to the occasion. “So, for Khama, nobody will take that quality away from him, and he will come back and believe you me, he is a quality player.”

Billiat continues his quest to improve his showing when Kaizer Chiefs play Cameroonian champions PWD Bamenda in Friday’s Caf Champions League preliminary round, first leg away match.

Original author: Michael Madyira

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