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'It's a perfect day' - USMNT star Dest delighted to open Barcelona account in Champions League win at Kiev

The 20-year-old opened the scoring on the night after taking the ball from Martin Braithwaite inside the Ukrainian side's box

Barcelona defender Sergino Dest was delighted to score his first goal for the club after he netted the opener in a 4-0 win at Dynamo Kiev on Tuesday. 

The Champions League match entered the break scoreless, but the right-back's 52nd-minute strike opened the floodgates in Ukraine

Martin Braithwaite would add a brace after Dest's goal before Antoine Griezmann wrapped up a comfortable win that saw the Catalans advance to the last 16. 

Dest's goal meant he became the first American to score in the Champions League for Barcelona, in a match when his USMNT team-mate Konrad de la Fuente also made his senior debut for the Catalans. 

After the game, the 20-year-old couldn't help but express his satisfaction with his and his team's performance on the evening. 

"It's a perfect day, I'm very happy to score my first goal, the team has played very well and I think we have done a great job," Dest said. 

"I am the first American to score in the Champions League with Barca, it is a source of pride and even more so doing so with a club as important as Barca."

Playing as a right-back, Dest got forward every opportunity he could against Dynamo, which he did effectively to take the ball off Braithwaite in the box and finish low into the corner for his goal.

The USMNT defender said that playing on the front foot was part of his side's game plan on the night.

"The game needed to play like this and I have done so, to look for the rival goal," Dest said. "It is an important victory for us, we are in a good position in the Champions League."

With Sergi Roberto facing two months on the sidelines due to a thigh injury, Dest could be set for an extended run in the team. Still, he expressed his disappointment that his team-mate will likely be out until 2021.

"I do not like that Sergi Roberto is injured," Dest said. "I wish him a quick recovery. Now I have the opportunity to play and I will try to do my best."

Original author: Goal

'I hope this is start of something big' - Mingueza thrilled after assured Barca debut

The centre-back provided an assist and helped the Catalans keep a clean sheet on his introduction to first-team football

Barcelona debutant Oscar Mingueza could not hide his delight after coming through his first experience with flying colours against Dynamo Kyiv on Wednesday. 

Mingueza, 21, started for the Catalans to make his maiden senior appearance in the Champions League as coach Ronald Koeman shuffled his first XI following Saturday's defeat to Atletico Madrid

Pedri, Trincao, Sergino Dest, Carles Alena and Junior Firpo also featured in a youthful line-up, while the likes of Jordi Alba and Antoine Griezmann dropped to the bench and Lionel Messi was left out of the matchday squad altogether. 

Koeman's gamble paid off in a straightforward 4-0 win for the visitors, with Martin Braithwaite netting twice following Dest's opener and Griezmann coming off the bench to hit the fourth of the evening. 

Mingueza looked solid in the middle of defence alongside Clement Lenglet and, with Gerard Pique set to miss up to six months after suffering ligament damage, he hopes to step up and feature on a more regular basis in the Blaugrana first team.

"I am really, really happy after so many years and everything that I have suffered to play here. It's a dream to debut in the Champions League for the best club in the world," he beamed to Barca TV. 

"I spent all week wondering if I would play or not and when I found out I was so happy.

"I was a little nervous and I thought of my family, my girlfriend and the people that know what I have suffered and the work behind reaching this point.

"I hope that this is the start of something big. I played well, we didn't give much away, the team was switched on when we lost the ball.

"With the rhythm we played with, they ended up tiring. We played well with and without the ball." 

Mingueza's debut included a fine assist to set up Braithwaite's first goal of the Group G fixture, and he earned high praise from Alba for his contribution to Barca's victory. 

"He's a kid who has been training with us for a long time and today he played a great game and assisted Braithwaite's goal," the full-back, who entered the game off the bench replacing Lenglet, told reporters after the game. 

"Defensively he was very good, it didn't seem like his debut with the first team."

Original author: Goal

Leeds Ponder Edinson Cavani Approach But Dismiss Second Zlatan Ibrahimovic Swoop

After a VAR review Marcel Sabitzer was deemed to have fouled the Argentine, which led to the game's only goal

RB Leipzig head coach Julian Nagelsmann has slammed the decision that led to PSG's penalty in his side's 1-0 defeat, saying it was a "joke" while also accusing Angel Di Maria of diving. 

PSG were awarded an early penalty in Tuesday's Champions League clash after a VAR review, with Marcel Sabitzer deemed to have fouled Di Maria just inside the penalty area. 

Neymar stepped up and converted from the spot after 11 minutes and that goal would hold up, as the Ligue 1 champions earned a 1-0 win over Leipzig.

It was a crucial victory for PSG, who moved up to second in Group H, level on points with Leipzig who are third. Both clubs sit three points behind group leaders Manchester United.

Nagelsmann was clearly unhappy with the manner in which the home side earned their penalty on Tuesday, saying the decision was not acceptable. 

"I don't think Paris had a real chance in the game and the penalty was a joke," Nagelsmann fumed to Sky Germany.

"That decision at Champions League level – that's really sad. That was a dive, there was zero contact. VAR was probably watching another game.

"Sometimes nuances make the difference and in the end it would have been deserved if we had rewarded ourselves. Now we are holding worse cards in the group, we have to win our two games and hope that Paris doesn't succeed."

Speaking to RMC Sport after the match, PSG head coach Thomas Tuchel expressed his relief to have come away with three points after he entered the game under intense pressure.

“We needed a win and now we have a win," Tuchel said. "It was a very difficult game."

Tuchel then hit out at suggestions that his side weren't up to standard despite the win, insisting his team's togetherness carried them through the match.

"You haven't seen a very good PSG? Sorry, sorry," Tuchel said. "I retain the heart, the solidarity. We are in a difficult situation but we can always count on our solidarity. We expect more with PSG. We needed a win and we have a win. It was a challenge to win and we won."

Original author: Goal

Transfer Talk: West Ham set to sign Ajax's Alvarez as Rice replacement

The Red Devils star decided to give his team-mate the opportunity instead of taking the glory for himself

Manchester United talisman Bruno Fernandes has revealed he passed up the opportunity to score a Champions League hat-trick to help the confidence of team-mate Marcus Rashford.

The Portuguese star scored twice in the Red Devils 4-1 rout of Istanbul Basaksehir at Old Trafford on Tuesday evening - with Rashford's spot kick and Daniel James' late strike putting the finishing touches on a solid performance.

Fernandes' two goals came in the opening 20 minutes as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side got off to a flying start, but when Rashford was felled in the penalty area, the ex-Sporting attacker handed the ball to his team-mate to get on the scoresheet instead of going for the hat-trick himself.

With Fernandes scoring from the spot in United's last match against West Brom, the playmaker revealed he had agreed to give Rashford the next penalty and said it was important the England international maintained his confidence.

"Of course every player wants a hat-trick," Fernandes told BT Sport post-match.

"But after the game in the Premier League I told Rashford that he could take the next one so I remembered that and also he's one of the top scorers in the Champions League so it's important for him to get the confidence.

"It doesn't matter who takes the penalty as long as the team scores."

It took United just seven minutes to begin the scoring, and they did so in style, Fernandes lashing a ferocious half-volley in off the crossbar from just outside the box after Basaksehir partially cleared a corner

The Portugal international was in the right place at the right time 12 minutes later, on hand to tap in from close range when Basaksehir goalkeeper Fehmi Mert Gunok inexplicably spilled a routine cross.

It seemed like Fernandes would step up to the spot to score this hat-trick on 35 minutes after Rashford was fouled by Boli Bolingoli, but instead he gave the ball to the latter, who slotted the penalty into the bottom right corner.

Despite Deniz Turuc pulling a goal back with a brilliant free kick on 75 minutes, James finished the match in stoppage time - finishing off a sweeping counter-attack move by side-footing Mason Greenwood's cross into the back of the net.

"I think we played really well," Fernandes said about performance. 

"We started the game with the right mentality - strong, intense. First half was important to get three points today.

"We're in a good position but can't relax - we have to think of the Premier League now and win the next game on Sunday and after that we don't have much time but we have some time to think of the next Champions League game.

Original author: Goal

Cavani and Van de Beek adapting to Man Utd style - Solskjaer

The Red Devils boss believes his new recruits are starting to show what they can bring to his side

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer heaped praise upon summer signings Donny van de Beek and Edinson Cavani after their 4-1 win over Istanbul Basaksehir in the Champions League on Tuesday. 

Both Van de Beek and Cavani played the full 90 minutes at Old Trafford with an early brace from Bruno Fernandes followed up a penalty from Marcus Rashford and a late Daniel James strike. 

Van de Beek was a reliable distrubuter in midfield, while Cavani worked tirelessly in the final third as the Red Devils claimed a third straight victory in all competitions. 

Solskjaer was asked about his two summer signings after the match and stressed his belief that both are making promising progress in their adaption to the side. 

"The two are getting used to how we want them to play - Donny can play in different positions and Edinson is a good old fashioned number nine and we haven't had that for a while and I was happy with how Anthony [Martial] played off the left," Solskjaer told BT Sport

"I felt first half we saw the intent straight away, they wanted to play and they enjoyed it. It's a Champions League night at Old Trafford, you'd expect them to enjoy themselves. We scored some very nice goals, I'm pleased. 

"We need one point, but of course we want to be top of the group but we'll take it one game at a time."

Despite being on a hat-trick, Fernandes allowed Rashford to take United's penalty in the 35th minute after the England attacker had won the foul. 

Solskjaer had no issue with Fernandes delegating the spot-kick and is simply thankful to have a number of players willing to step up to the spot. 

"Marcus is a very good penalty taker and Bruno is very confident, if Bruno wants to give it to Marcus then why not?" Solskjaer said. "Anthony Martial took one against Leipzig too - why not share it around?"

The Red Devils win was tainted somewhat by minor injuries picked up by Victor Lindelof and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, though Solskjaer doesn't believe they are anything serious. 

"Hopefully they'll be ready for the weekend - it's ankle for Aaron and back for Victor. There was no point taking anymore risks," he said. 

Original author: Josh Thomas

'I want to see America win a World Cup!' - Young USMNT stars in Champions League deserve respect, says Richards

For the first time since 2004, two Americans featured for the same team in a Champions League game on Tuesday
Original author: Goal

Alvarez and Gabigol attracting transfer attention in South America

Juventus 2-1 Ferencvaros: Morata books last-16 place as Ronaldo equals Messi record

Juventus were made to work for a victory in Turin on Tuesday, but Alvaro Morata's stoppage-time header sealed their place in the last 16.

Alvaro Morata's late header lifted Juventus into the Champions League knockout stages as Andrea Pirlo's side claimed a last-gasp 2-1 win over Ferencvaros.

It looked as though Juve would fall five points behind Group G leaders Barcelona as they toiled in Turin, with Ferencvaros' goalkeeper Denes Dibusz having made a string of fine stops.

Dibusz had been beaten by Cristiano Ronaldo's thumping 35th-minute equaliser, which cancelled out Myrto Uzuni's opener and moved the 35-year-old level with Lionel Messi on 70 home Champions League goals.

Yet it was an error from Dibusz – who made several mistakes in the reverse outing – which ultimately cost Ferencvaros a point, the goalkeeper only able to fumble Morata's header over the line in the 92nd minute.

Paulo Dybala volleyed at Dibusz with a quarter of an hour gone and Juve fell behind four minutes later – Uzuni tucking into a gaping goal after Tokmac Nguen had capitalised on Matthijs de Ligt's mistake.

Juve soon hit back and, two minutes after he saw a strike disallowed for offside, Ronaldo equalled Messi's haul of home goals in UEFA's premier competition, lashing a strike into the bottom-right corner from the edge of the area.

Ronaldo almost had his second early in the second half, but Dibusz beat him to a poor backpass.

Dibusz pulled off another vital stop on the hour, tipping Federico Bernardeschi's venomous strike onto the upright before he then denied Ronaldo a tap-in with a well-timed dive at the forward's feet.

The post came to Dibusz's rescue when Morata curled a close-range strike beyond him, but another fine stop from Rodrigo Bentancur's effort seemed to have sealed a point.

It was not to be, though, with Dibusz failing to keep out a Morata header which was directed straight at him as Juve clinched their last-16 place with two games to spare.

What does it mean? Juve through, but Bianconeri have work to do at both ends

Juve are second on nine points, eight clear of both Ferencvaros and Dynamo Kiev with two games remaining, though they must be much better if they are to progress deep into the competition.

As would be expected, Juve dominated possession (66.1 per cent) and mustered 19 attempts. While profligate finishing will be a concern for Pirlo, his side were also open at the other end, allowing Ferencvaros to have nine shots, and the hosts were fortunate only two were on target.

Morata equals his Champions League best

A move back to Juve seems to have reinvigorated Morata, though his chance looked to have gone after he hit the woodwork when one-on-one with Dibusz.

However, luck was on his side, and Morata's header now means he has netted five Champions League goals this term, equalling his best tally in the competition, which came when he helped Juve to the final in 2014-15.

From hero to zero

It was a tough break for Dibusz, who had been at his best through the game, making five saves, with the finger-tip stop to deny Bernardeschi a particular highlight.

But his concentration ultimately slipped at the vital moment, and the 30-year-old will be left to reflect on another Champions League howler.

What's next?

Benevento are Juve's next Serie A opponents, before the Bianconeri host Kiev in the Champions League. Ferencvaros go up against Barca next week.

Haaland keeps Dortmund in Bundesliga race, Barcelona's revival, ref admits he got Pickford call wrong

Neymar's penalty was enough for Paris Saint-Germain to secure a much needed, but unconvincing win over RB Leipzig.

Paris Saint-Germain leapfrogged RB Leipzig into second place in Champions League Group H after Neymar's first-half penalty secured a scarcely deserved 1-0 win over the Bundesliga side on Tuesday. 

Thomas Tuchel's side suffered a 2-1 defeat in Germany three weeks ago but they got their campaign back on track at Parc des Princes despite an underwhelming display. 

Neymar sealed all three points from the spot after 11 minutes, with the Ligue 1 champions then failing to have another shot on target until the closing stages of the match.

The result means the two sides are level on six points after four games, with PSG ahead courtesy of a better goal difference. 

Neymar opened his Champions League account for the season early on, slotting home from 12 yards after Angel Di Maria had been fouled just inside the penalty area by Marcel Sabitzer. 

Leipzig midfielder Sabitzer then saw an effort deflected narrowly wide soon after, with Keylor Navas tipping over Dayot Upamecano's header from the resulting corner. 

Di Maria whipped a free-kick wide of Peter Gulacsi's right-hand post after 30 minutes as the hosts ended the first half with just 37.2 per cent possession, their lowest total at half-time in a Champions League game since facing Bayern Munich in September 2017.

The visitors continued to look bright after the interval, with Emil Forsberg and Sabitzer sending efforts just wide.

Yussuf Poulsen should have done better with a header from a corner with 10 minutes remaining as Leipzig looked the more likely to score.

PSG managed to hold on and claim maximum points, though, condemning Leipzig to a second consecutive away Champions League defeat following their 5-0 thumping by Manchester United in October.

 

What does it mean? PSG prevail despite insipid display

It will be of grave concern to under pressure head coach Tuchel that his side looked so short of firepower, despite having Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Di Maria in his starting line-up.

Last season's beaten finalists were badly off the pace against a lively Leipzig side, who can consider themselves unlucky to be returning to Germany with nothing after having 15 shots and 62 per cent possession.

Upamecano unlucky to be on losing side

Upamecano proved exactly why so many of Europe's biggest clubs are interested in his services with another imperious display. The Frenchman won nine of his 11 duels, completed more passes (83) than any player on the pitch and gained possession a game-high 14 times.

Mbappe endures a game to forget

Mbappe scored twice against Monaco last Friday to take his tally in Ligue 1 this season to nine goals, but his struggles in the Champions League continued. The 21-year-old did not manage a shot on target in what was his eighth game in the competition this year without a goal.

What's next?

PSG will hope to return to winning ways in Ligue 1 following their 3-2 defeat to Monaco when they host Bordeaux on Saturday, while Leipzig entertain Arminia Bielefeld in the Bundesliga on the same day.

What's next for Xavi, Barcelona after their economic lever gamble failed?

Barcelona made it four wins out of four Champions League games with victory over Dynamo Kiev thanks to Martin Braithwaite's brace.

Martin Braithwaite scored twice as Barcelona eased to a 4-0 victory over Dynamo Kiev in Champions League Group G on Tuesday.

After an underwhelming first-half display, Ronald Koeman's side took the lead early in the second period with a fine finish from Sergino Dest.

Braithwaite netted his first goal in Europe for Barca with a close-range finish from a corner before he added his second of the game from the penalty spot.

Substitute Antoine Griezmann put the gloss on the win in injury time with a clinical finish from the inside the box as Barca booked a place in the last 16 for the 17th season in a row.

Barca completed the victory without Lionel Messi, who did not make the trip to Kiev after Koeman gave him a break following a hectic schedule.

Koeman rotated his squad as he gave first starts of the season to Carles Alena, Junior Firpo and Braithwaite, while Oscar Mingueza made his first-team debut.

The side named by the Dutchman had an average age of 24 years and 206 days, which was the club’s youngest in the Champions League since 2011 and their seventh youngest ever in the competition.

A youthful Blaugrana showed early promise although Dynamo had the first meaningful attempt with Marc-Andre ter Stegen saving Carlos de Pena's scuffed shot.

Philippe Coutinho curled a free-kick wide from distance but Francisco Trincao's dipping effort, easily gathered by Georgi Bushchan, was Barca's only shot on target during a drab first half.

Koeman's side increased the tempo after half-time and soon took the lead with a well-crafted goal which saw Braithwaite slide the ball through for Dest, who crisply angled a low finish into the net.

Shortly before the hour-mark Barca added a second when Braithwaite stabbed home at the back post after Mingueza's deft flick from Alena's corner.

Braithwaite won a penalty after he was fouled by Denys Popov and the Denmark striker confidently stepped up to send the spot-kick high into the corner of the net.

Dynamo rarely threatened in the remainder of the contest while Riqui Puig missed a sitter for Barcelona late on when he fired over the crossbar.

Griezmann, a 66th-minute replacement for Coutinho, added a fourth in injury time when he swept the ball home.

 

What does it mean? Koeman's gamble pays off

A 1-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in LaLiga on Saturday was hardly the tonic Koeman was looking for after the international break.

Life has been more comfortable in the Champions League for the Dutchman, though, and this victory ensured Barca have won all of their first four group-stage games in the Champions League for the first time since the 2002-03 campaign.

Defeat against Dynamo would have meant more scrutiny on Koeman, so it was a calculated gamble to put his faith in a relatively inexperienced starting line-up. On this occasion, however, it paid off and Barca are sitting top of Group G with maximum points. Now to transfer that form to LaLiga.

Braithwaite takes his chance

Braithwaite's opportunities in a Barcelona shirt are typically few and far between, but he proved his usefulness as a reliable backup with an impressive showing. He became the second Danish player to be involved in three goals in a single Champions League game (two goals and an assist) after Nicklas Bendtner for Arsenal in 2010 (three goals) since at least the 2003-04 season.

Karavaev give a stern test by Dest

This was a game that Dynamo full-back Oleksandr Karavaev will want to forget after he was given a torrid time by Trincao, and the overlapping runs of the superb Dest. Karavaev lost possession 15 times – the second worst in Dynamo's side – and was hauled off on the hour as he failed to make a single tackle.

What's next?

Koeman will hope for a return to winning ways in LaLiga when Barcelona welcome Osasuna to Camp Nou on Sunday while Dynamo host Vorskla in the Ukrainian Premier League a day earlier.

Neymar backs Antony over showboating controversy

Manchester United 4-1 Istanbul Basaksehir: Fernandes leads the way as Solskjaer's men close on last 16

Manchester United edged closer to Champions League progression thanks to a 4-1 win over Istanbul Basaksehir at Old Trafford.

Bruno Fernandes was integral for Manchester United yet again as he scored a brace in Tuesday's 4-1 Champions League win over Istanbul Basaksehir, taking them a step closer to the last 16.

United had suffered a shock 2-1 defeat in Turkey prior to the international break that provided Group H rivals RB Leipzig and Paris Saint-Germain with encouragement, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men bounced back at Old Trafford.

It was not entirely plain-sailing early on for United, who did afford Basaksehir a few chances, but the hosts were clinical in the first half as Fernandes netted twice – the first a glorious strike – to take his goal-involvement tally to 34 in 35 games for the club.

Marcus Rashford converted a penalty before United appeared a little more conservative in the second period, and Basaksehir pulled one back via a Deniz Turuc free-kick before seeing Edin Visca hit the crossbar, but the Red Devils sealed victory nevertheless as Daniel James struck a much-needed late goal.

It took United just seven minutes to begin the scoring, and they did so in style, Fernandes lashing a ferocious half-volley in off the crossbar from just outside the box after Basaksehir partially cleared a corner.

The Portugal star was in the right place at the right time 12 minutes later, on hand to tap in from close range when Basaksehir goalkeeper Fehmi Mert Gunok inexplicably spilled a routine cross.

Fernandes might have had a hat-trick just past the half-hour mark, but he allowed Rashford – who earlier had an effort disallowed for offside – to take the penalty that the England international had won following a foul by Boli Bolingoli.

United lost Victor Lindelof to an apparent injury at the break and Basaksehir quickly looked to put a bit of pressure on them, with Visca forcing David de Gea to tip a fine effort around the post.

Basaksehir enjoyed more pressure late on, with Turuc's free-kick crossing the line despite De Gea's best efforts as he became the first player to score direct from a set-piece in the Champions League against the Red Devils since March 2010.

Visca then rattled the bar from distance as United began to flag but a turnaround was beyond the visitors, with James making certain in injury time as Mason Greenwood set him up for a simple finish.

 

What does it mean? Job done for United as crunch matches await

A victory over Basaksehir here was the only acceptable result for United and Solskjaer given their final two group games are of course against Leipzig and Paris Saint-Germain, both of whom are still desperately tussling over second place, the Ligue 1 champions having beaten the German side 1-0 on Tuesday to move level with them on six points.

Given the inconsistency United have shown this season, heading into those matches level on points with them would have given most fans feelings of unease and trepidation. Of course, they could still fail to progress even with nine points, but the odds are certainly in their favour.

Fernandes stamps his authority

It cannot be a coincidence that the biggest dip in United's performance on Tuesday came after Fernandes' exit. The Portugal star had a team-high four shots – three of which were on target – and they obviously led to two goals. On top of that, he also laid on three key passes. That was one less than Alex Telles, though the Brazilian played the full match.

Kahveci offers little

Ordinarily one of the stars of this Basaksehir team, it was a difficult day for Irfan Can Kahveci. The midfielder had just 25 touches of the ball, the fewest of his team's starting XI, he made no key passes and had hardly any presence defensively, failing to make a single tackle, clearance or interception.

Key Opta Facts

- Manchester United have won their past seven home games in European competition by an aggregate score of 24-2.
- Istanbul Basaksehir have lost their previous four away games in major European competition by an aggregate score of 12-2.
- United have scored nine goals in their two Champions League home games this season, compared to just three goals in five league games at Old Trafford this term.
- Daniel James became the first Welshman to score a Champions League goal for United since Ryan Giggs against Benfica in September 2011.
- Marcus Rashford has scored five goals in four Champions League games this season – as many as he had netted in his first 18 appearances in the competition.

What's next?

United return to Premier League action at Southampton on Sunday, before hosting PSG in the Champions League three days later. Basaksehir face Denizlispor on Saturday and then welcome Leipzig on Wednesday.

Baxter provides update on whether Billiat will start for Kaizer Chiefs against Mamelodi Sundowns

Truter feels that his charges got carried away during their clash with Amakhosi as he reflected on the match

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Gavin Hunt was disappointed in the officiating and missed chances following his side's narrow defeat to Swallows FC on Tuesday evening.

Amakhosi suffered a 1-0 defeat to the Birds in a PSL match which was played at Dobsonville Stadium and the loss extended their winless run to five matches. 

Hunt's side dominated the first-half with Philani Zulu hitting the crossbar and Daniel Cardoso's goal was disallowed as he was adjudged to have fouled Swallows goalkeeper Virgil Vries. 

"Uhm obviously disappointed, I thought we did enough in the first half​," Hunt told SuperSport TV.

"We had some great opportunities, scored the goal, I don't know why it was disallowed, I'm not sure. And they had one chance, they scored, I mean, yeah.

"There wasn't much threat the whole night, I didn't think there was any threat in front of us you know. So yeah, but you got to score."

Hunt explained why he introduced Bernard Parker and Njabulo Blom, who replaced Lebogang Manyama and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo with 20 minutes left.

"There [was] no defensive structure, it just becomes a game that goes from end to end," he added. 

"I wanted a little bit more structure in the game, we have to try play players, you know... it is what it is. Away, try go again and come back, try again."

Chiefs, who are placed 11th on the PSL standings, will now take on Cameroonian side PWD Bamenda in the Caf Champions League match on Sunday. 

Meanwhile, Swallows coach Brandon Truter was pleased to see his side improve after a poor first-half performance in the Soweto Derby encounter. 

"What an awful game to watch in the first half, haha yoh! But I think it was the excitement, it's our first season back in the PSL," Truter said on SuperSport TV.

"We do have experienced guys but the youngsters were excited, got carried away by the occasion, it's Chiefs, not just another game.

"It showed, it was long ball after long ball, me and Gavin [Hunt] had a go at one another, 'what game is this we're watching?" he asked. 

"But yeah we managed to settle in the second-half, calmed them down, told them to enforce the structure and keep the ball better."

Truter was happy for Mhlongo, who marked his debut for Swallows with a late winning goal which took the team to the top of the league standings. 

"So yeah, second-half was better, I'm just happy for Joe [Joseph Mhlongo], came back from a long lay-off, didn't have much of pre-season," he continued. 

"We wanted to give him 20 minutes, well he scored the goal. Our pressing game is low, some of the guys lost energy, the gas was gone."

Sammy Seabi, who had a good game in midfield for Swallows, was replaced by Musa Nyatama and the hosts continued to dominate the game.

"We had to make changes in the front line, also Sammy Seabi, it was his first start today, He also ran out of legs, we had to replace him," he said.

"In my opinion, at that time we were dominating and we didn't want to change much."

Swallows' next match is against Lamontville Golden Arrows in a PSL match on December 5.

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo

Chelsea transfers: How Thomas Tuchel's midfield could look in 2022/23

The A-League side looked like they were going to seal their first ever win in the competition until a late collapse

Perth Glory have come heartbreakingly close to their first ever Asian Champions League win until a late burst from South Korean side Ulsan saw the Australians lose 2-1 in Qatar on Tuesday.

Daniel Stynes looked to have secured all three points for the A-League side as stoppage time approached, but late strikes to Kim In-sung and Junior Negrao at the Education City Stadium saw the Glory shattered.

Glory were on the back foot for most of the match, against a team that featured former Perth defender Jason Davidson at left back, with centre-half Jonathan Aspropotamitis putting in a solid shift at the back.

Richard Garcia's side defended stoutly however and they got their reward on 71 minutes when Stynes scored his first senior goal for the club with a low drive from outside the area.

Ulsan turned up the pressure in the latter stages of the match and Glory were finally overwhelmed on 89 minutes when Yoon Bit-garam brought down a cross and played it across to Kim to score the equaliser.

Despite being shellshocked by the equaliser, Glory nearly went ahead again straight after through a Bruno Fornaroli free-kick that was superbly saved by Ulsan goalkeeper Jo Su-huk.

However, in the third minute of stoppage time as both teams went for the win, the Koreans struck a decisive blow as Junior clinically volleyed home Kim's cross to go top of the group at the halfway point of the stage.

Glory have yet to get a point from their three group matches to date and will likely face elimination from the competition if they fail to defeat Ulsan in the return match on Friday.

Original author: Goal

Thiago explains injury issue that has held him back at Liverpool and left him playing through pain

ISL 2020-21: FC Goa vs Mumbai City - TV channel, stream, kick-off time & match preview

21:35 GMT 24/11/2020

Goa Bengaluru FC ISL

It will be an emotional reunion for Sergio Lobera & co. as the Spaniard leads Mumbai City against his former side...

Juan Ferrando's FC Goa are set to face Sergio Lobera's Mumbai City in a 2020-21 Indian Super League (ISL) clash at the Fatorda stadium in Goa, on Wednesday evening. 

Game FC Goa vs Mumbai City
Date Wednesday, November 25
Time 7:30 PM IST (GMT +5:30)
 

TV CHANNELS & LIVE STREAM

The Star Sports Network have the exclusive broadcasting rights of the ISL in India.

India (English) TV channels Online streaming
Star Sports 1 SD & HD, Star Sports 2 SD & HD Disney+ Hotstar and Jio TV


Commentary will also be available in vernacular languages across India.

Hindi TV channels Marathi TV channels
Star Sports Hindi 1 SD & HD, Star Sports 3, Star Gold 2 Star Sports Marathi
 
Malayalam TV channels Kannada TV channels
Asianet Plus, Asianet Movies Star Sports Kannada
 
Tamil TV Channels Telegu TV channels
Star Sports Tamil Star Sports Telugu

 

TEAM NEWS

FC Goa Possible XI:   

Injured - None
Doubtful - None  
Suspended - None  

Key Players - Igor Angulo, Jorge Ortiz     


Mumbai City FC Possible XI: 

Injured - None  
Doubtful - Raynier Fernandes  
Suspended - Ahmed Jahouh

Key Players - Hugo Boumous, Adam de Fondre    

 

Original author: Anselm Noronha

Sasman: Swallows FC confirm interest in Kaizer Chiefs defender and Mamelodi Sundowns duo

The Portuguese star found the back of the net on Tuesday to bring up a milestone that only his Argentine rival has also managed

Cristiano Ronaldo's first-half strike against Ferencvaros has seen the Juventus attacker bring up his 70th home goal in the Champions League - a record haul he now shares with Lionel Messi. 

After Andrea Pirlo's side went behind in the 19th minute via a goal from Myrto Uzuni on Tuesday, Ronaldo brought Juve level 16 minutes later as he fired home from distance after being set up by Juan Cuadrado. 

The 35-year-old has enjoyed a strong start to the season in front of goal and has eight goals from just five Serie A appearances this campaign. After missing Juventus' first two Champions League group games through Covid-19, Ronaldo now has his first goal in the competition this season. 

Overall, Ronaldo has struck 131 Champions League goals across just 172 games with the former Real Madrid attacker winning the competition an impressive five times to date. 

The Portugal icon also recently celebrated scoring his 100th international goal as he continues to etch his name into football history for both club and country. 

After seeing Ronaldo strike twice for Juventus on Saturday in a 2-0 win over Cagliari, Pirlo was quick to praise his star man and noted that he sets an example for everyone

"He is a great professional, as we already knew," Pirlo told DAZN . "He is a real champion and sets the example for everyone around him, both in the matches and in training.

"The only advice I can give him is to keep going in the same way."

Speaking prior to the match against Ferencvaros, Pirlo was also quick to stress that Ronaldo gets no special treatment despite his importance to the Turin side. 

"I treat him like I treat all the other players. I'm always available on and off the pitch," Pirlo told a press conference on Monday.

"It's easy to have a good relationship between humble people. I'm like that. I behave with him – a champion – like I do with [Gianluca] Frabotta or [Manolo] Portanova, who are two young players.

"I do the same things I was used to doing when I was a player."

Original author: Josh Thomas

Leeds lose legal battle with RB Leipzig over Jean-Kevin Augustin transfer

The veteran has played sparingly this season but his manager has insisted he is set to be a key performer moving forward

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has insisted Olivier Giroud is a major part of his plans after the striker sent the Blues into the Champions League last 16 with a late winner at Rennes.

Serhou Guirassy looked to have rescued a point for the Ligue 1 side when he cancelled out Callum Hudson-Odoi's first-half opener in the 85th minute at Roazhon Park.

But Giroud, who came on as a second-half substitute, would have the last word as he netted a header in stoppage time to give Chelsea a 2-1 win.

The 34-year-old has grown frustrated at his lack of minutes at Stamford Bridge this season, as he's made just one total start and played only 36 minutes in the Premier League. 

The play of Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham has helped keep Giroud on the sidelines, with the France international looking for a move in January to gain more minutes ahead of Euro 2020.

In his press conference after the game, Lampard saluted Giroud's professionalism during what has been a difficult period.

"The things behind the scenes, everybody kind of feels from the outside to be fair what a great professional he is and how highly regarded he is by his team-mates and myself," Lampard said.

"So for him to get a goal, you saw the reaction of his team-mates, he's so professional in how he trains and looks after himself that age isn't even a factor for him. He's getting better with age if anything in terms of how he looks after himself.

"So he offers a lot for us and I keep saying it but the big schedule coming up and the way we play means I will rely on players. So thankfully for me he's a player that always keeps the right attitude if he's not playing regularly, and I know when I call upon him that he comes in as he did today."

As Chelsea get set for a busy December that will see them play eight matches, Lampard has stressed the importance of Giroud to his plans.

"It is selection issues for me," Lampard said. "We need that. We need that with playing every three days, maybe at Christmas we are playing every two days unless the schedule gets sorted out.

"With Oli, it is hard to say I have to prove it to him. I have to look at it game by game and play him to get the best for us. At the moment, Tammy is in great form as well. I think Oli knows how much I am happy with him. I hope he knows how much I rely on him.

"Every player wants to play every game and that's an impossible part of my job to keep them all happy but hopefully he knows and feels content. He got minutes, he came on today and there will be games where he starts for us as well."

Original author: Goal

Can Dortmund keep their young stars this summer?

The Glamour Boys suffered a 1-0 defeat to Swallows FC in a PSL match on Tuesday night. Goal rates the Amakhosi players' performances
Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo

'Negative Mount talk needs to go away' - Lampard delighted with Chelsea star's impact

The midfielder pulled off an inspired assist to send Callum Hudson-Odoi away for the Blues' opening goal against Rennes on Tuesday

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard was pleased to see Mason Mount play a crucial part in qualifying his team for the Champions League knockout phase, with a performance he believes answers many of the young midfielder's detractors. 

The Blues secured passage to the last 16 with two games to spare on Tuesday with a tense 2-1 victory away to Rennes in Group E. 

Callum Hudson-Odoi had fired his side into the lead 22 minutes in, only for the hosts to strike back towards the end through Sehrou Guirassy. 

But just when it looked like Guirassy had earned his team a point, Olivier Giroud emerged to score the decisive goal deep into injury time, leaving his side assured of qualification alongside Sevilla

Mount played a key role in Chelsea's opener with an inspired long pass that set up Hudson-Odoi for the opener, and Lampard backed his former charge at Derby County to keep shining at Stamford Bridge.

"I'm really pleased. With Mason there's been a lot of talk and any negative talk just needs to go away," the manager explained to BT Sport after the final whistle.

"I've been lucky enough to be closer to him and what he did at Derby last season has been outstanding.

"I'm not going to undermine the quality he has and when we have two No.8s he's got all the qualities - I think he can get more goals and assists. The pass for Callum Hudson Odoi's goal was top class. You saw Kai [Havertz] coming on too, we need to keep that competition.

"I actually don't speak to [Mount] too much. We have a good relationship, not as close as some think. He knows I'm here if he needs any guidance but it's the social media world, in the modern-day world we all have opinions and want different things from players.

"It should only be what I think, the players think and proper Chelsea fans think of him. The conversation just needs to move on, there's nothing to make of it."

Lampard added on Hudson-Odoi: "I'm happy. I knew he'd had a couple of good performances last week for [England] Under-21s and I know he wants more minutes.

"It's not cut and dry, he's still developing and he came off the back of a really bad injury.

"There's loads of great things about Callum and things he can improve, he's a big player for Chelsea and got a big future for Chelsea. His all-round performance was great tonight."

Original author: Goal

Men's Player of the Year nominees

The Super Falcons defender has signed a one-year contract extension with the Swedish Damallsvenskan outfit

Nigeria international Faith Micheal has signed a one-year contract extension with Swedish club Pitea, Goal can exclusively report.

The development brings an end to protracted talks over her contract extension with the Damallsvenskan side following the expiration of the defender's deal.

Last week, the Super Falcons star, who turns 34 in February, had offered some positive updates regarding her future at LF Arena.

"I will play with Pitea IF. Nothing has been signed yet, but I have talked to the club and hope that we can solve everything," She told Pitea-Tidningen.

"Pitea is home to me. When you are in a place that makes you happy, there is no point in changing."

Having put pen to paper, the veteran defender, who joined the club in 2011 will be staying put at Norrbotten beyond a decade.

While confirming her contract extension to Goal, she explained her decision to remain at Pitea amid tempting offers from rival Swedish clubs.

"It's done and dusted. I have signed a new one-year deal with club (Pitea)," she told Goal.

"I choose to extend my contract with the team because I like it here, even there were also other offers."

The 2018 champions struggled for most period of the 2020 season before confirming their stay in the Swedish top-flight. This was following a final day 1-0 triumph at Orebro on November 15.

And the 33-year-old, who played the duration in all her side's 22 matches during the season, opened up on the secrets that saw her side succeeding in their long battle against relegation.

"It was not by my power but the grace of God for me to play all matches without being substituted or injured. It's a blessing," she continued.

"First, I was praying for the team believing God that no matter what, we are not being relegated but on the other hand, the harmony in the team played a vital role.

"We were not moved by the situation but told ourselves that we must stay up against all odds because many rival teams even wanted us out due to the distance and how cold the city is.

"The club's board played their part by organising fun activities like car races and some other fun games. Others from the community twice organised lunch or dinner for us as players.

"All these were done just for us to be happy, united as a team and deliver the results on the pitch.

"We got massive support, so all that was left for us to appreciate them was by working even harder and to see every match as a final.

"So out of 4 matches to end the season, we ended up winning three of them and only lost one. It's tough but ended in praise at the end."

She becomes the fifth player to sign a new deal ahead of the 2021 season after Astrid Larsson, Linnea Sehlberg, Guro Pettersen, Sofia Wännerdahl and Maja Green for Stellan Carlsson's team.

Following her extension, Micheal will unite with compatriot Anam Imo who joined from Rosengard on a three-year deal last week.

On completion of her new deal, Micheal would have played in the Swedish top-flight for 16 years since her first signing for QBIK in 2004, including a two-year stint with Linkopings.

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu

Copyright

© UEFA

WSL clash between Man City & Birmingham postponed due to Covid-19

The duo teamed up for their side's first goal at Rennes on Tuesday in a game they ultimately won 2-1

Callum Hudson-Odoi has hailed the vision of Mason Mount after his Chelsea team-mate picked him out with a fantastic long pass for the club's opener against Rennes on Tuesday.

Mount collected the ball near midfield in the first half and found Hudson-Odoi with an incisive through ball, before the winger calmly finished when in alone against the goalkeeper.

The goal gave Chelsea the lead before Rennes equalised the Champions League match late through Serhou Guirassy. But substitute Olivier Giroud would grab a stoppage-time winner for the Blues to seal a 2-1 victory and a place in the last 16.

The Blues have now won six matches in a row in all competitions, but Hudson-Odoi has urged his side to keep their feet on the ground.

"Everybody is playing well at the moment but we want to keep improving," Hudson-Odoi told BT Sport.

"I need to take each opportunity I get when I'm in the team. I want to keep getting goals and assists and working hard for the team. I'm happy with the three points."

The 20-year-old saved particular praise for Mount, saying his team-mate's "amazing" vision was on full display on his 22nd-minute goal.

"I know Mason, he works really hard and presses well in the middle of the pitch so as soon as he got the ball I knew I was in front of the full-back," Hudson-Odoi said. "His vision is amazing and [I knew] he'd pick me out so I got in there and got the goal." 

The Blues can now turn their focus to the Premier League, with a massive London derby coming up on Sunday against league-leaders Tottenham.

Chelsea are in third, two points behind Spurs and Liverpool, and Hudson-Odoi is feeling bullish about his side's chances of picking up all three points at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

"We'll go in there trying to win, we're confident and playing well at the moment. We've got to recover well and hopefully get the win there," Hudson-Odoi said.

The two sides have already met once this season, with Tottenham coming out on top after a shootout in the Carabao Cup in September.

 

Original author: Goal

Tariq Lamptey: Brighton boss Graham Potter addresses Ghana target's suspension ahead of Liverpool game

The Seagulls manager shares his thoughts about losing the right-back for Saturday's Premier League tie 

Brighton and Hove Albion manager Graham Potter wants the club to move on from losing Tariq Lamptey to suspension ahead of Saturday's epic Premier League clash with Liverpool.

The Ghana target was sent off in stoppage time during last week's 2-1 away win over Aston Villa for a second bookable offence.

He copped his two yellow cards within a period of two minutes, the first coming for a foul in the 89th minute and the second in the first minute of injury time for a late challenge.

“It is what it is. We have to get on with it," Cooper said, as reported by AE Daily.

“We have a squad of players and we have to adapt. At the same time, Tariq has done really well for us.

“He is an important part of what we are trying to do and I thought he was really good.

“He has got some incredible attributes we try to use the best we can.

“Don’t forget he was playing on Jack Grealish’s side, who is in an incredible moment of form.

“He is having to cover a bit of ground and I thought his teammates helped him, covered behind him well.”

Lamptey's good form for Brighton has caught the eye of Ghana football officials who have launched a strong bid to secure his international future from England.

The 20-year-old right-back, who was born to Ghanaian parents in Hillingdon, currently plays for his country of birth at U21 level.

“In fact when I was watching him [Lamptey] on TV, the first thing I did was to call a couple of people and it was clear that he will be a good player for our national team, the Black Stars,” Ghana FA Executive Council member George Amoakoh told  Nhyira FM in September.

“It is not going to be easy [to get him to switch international allegiance]. The national team's department is making serious efforts to get his parents and the boy to agree to play for Ghana.

“But it's not going to be easy. I don’t want to sound like it's impossible, but it's not going to be easy.

“Most of the [Ghanaian] players born in Europe, if you want to entice them to come and play for Ghana, it is very difficult. They mostly aspire to play for their country of birth or host countries. Even their parents don’t opt for their children playing for Ghana."

Lamptey is one of two main England-born targets of the Ghana Football Association, the second being Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah. 

Original author: Prince Narkortu Teye

FutPost.com