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Mallory Pugh out of USWNT roster for October friendlies

Following the NFF’s vow to stop NPFL stars from playing in obscure leagues in Europe, Goal looks at Nigeria players who have gained from such a move
(Originally posted by Shina Oludare)

Utd won't confirm Antony availability amid probe

The Spain striker's fantastic goal kept his team's hopes alive in their Euro 2020 semi-final at Wembley

Alvaro Morata put his name in history books as his dramatic late equaliser against Italy saw him surpass Fernando Torres while leveling Cristiano Ronaldo for a Euros record.

Morata's stunning goal came in the 80th minute of Tuesday's Euro 2020 semi-final against Italy with the Azzurri up 1-0 thanks to a goal from Federico Chiesa.

But, after receiving a pass from Dani Olmo, Morata capped a stunning sequence with a perfect finish, making history while also sending the game to extra time.

What did Morata's goal mean?

In addition to keeping Spain's Euros hopes alive, it also saw the oft-criticised Morata move past Torres.

The goal was Morata's sixth career strike at the Euros, surpassing Torres, who was previously Spain's top scorer at the competition with five.

Morata also became the second player to score three or more goals in multiple Euros, joining Cristiano Ronaldo, who has done so at three separate tournaments.

In addition, Morata, who did not start on Tuesday, became the first-ever Spanish player to score for both club and country at Wembley Stadium.

The night didn't end well for Morata though, as he missed a vital spot kick in a shootout that helped Italy advance to the final with a win on penalties.

A difficult tournament for Morata

Morata has been the subject of intense criticism throughout the tournament, with that vitriol often being taken to inappropriate levels.

The striker revealed that he and his family received death threats during the group stage, adding that he couldn't sleep after seeing people say they wanted his children to die as a result of his performances for Spain.

But Morata's goal on Tuesday was his third of the tournament, with the striker also scoring against Poland and Croatia.

Further reading

Tottenham eyeing Erik ten Hag as Julian Nagelsmann alternative

The ex-Everton boss reached out to his former player to discuss a potential transfer to the Spanish capital

New Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has been in contact with Richarlison, a player he is eager to reunite with in Spain this summer.

Ancelotti was hired by Real Madrid in June as he opted to leave Everton to return to his former club on a contract that runs through 2024.

The Italian boss is now interested in bringing one of Everton's stars to Madrid with him, as he has held conversations with Richarlison over that possibility.

What happened?

Goal can confirm that a call between Ancelotti and Richarlison happened recently, with the forward currently on duty with Brazil for Copa America.

Ancelotti is eager to bring him to the Bernabeu, but any potential talks are in the early stages.

Still, the conversation between the two could evolve into an offer for Everton to consider in the coming weeks.

Richarlison's time at Everton

The Brazilian forward has been with Everton since 2018, having made the move to Goodison Park after one season at Watford.

Ancelotti arrived midway through the 2019-20 season, with Richarlison netting 15 goals by the end of that campaign.

In total, Richarlison has scored 42 goals in 119 appearances for Everton, with 13 of those coming this past season.

Richarlison is currently with Brazil for the Copa America, with the Selecao booking their spot in the finale with a win over Peru on Monday.

He started that 1-0 win before being replaced by Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior in the 85th minute.

Further reading

(Originally posted by Thiago Fernandes)

Phil Neville leaves England women job with immediate effect

The ex-Lokomotiv Moscow man has words of compliment for the erstwhile Juventus attacker

Former Ghana midfielder Laryea Kingston has named ex-international colleague Stephen Appiah as one of “the best” he has played alongside.

Appiah represented Ghana between 1995 and 2010, playing at two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and two World Cup finals.

At the 2006 Afcon in Egypt, Appiah and Kingston formed a formidable midfield partnership with Sulley Muntari and Michael Essien, even though the Black Stars suffered a first-round elimination.

Nevertheless, they propelled Ghana to a maiden World Cup qualification in Germany, where Appiah scored a decisive match-winning penalty at the championship as the Black Stars beat the USA 2-1 in their last group game to book a place in the Round of 16.

“Tornado [Stephen Appiah] is someone I grew up with. For me, he is one of the best technical players that I have played with,” Kingston, on Euro 2020 Championship punditry duty with the 40-year-old Appiah, said on Joy TV.

“It is not because he is in the studio with me, but I have so much respect for him as a player.

“I feel honoured to have played with him. His technical ability, you cannot take it away from him.

“These are the guys that when you are playing with, they make the game easy for you.”

Appiah, who won the U17 World Cup with Ghana, made his senior debut in 1995 against Benin.

He made his tournament debut for the Black Stars at the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil, and went on to become captain of the side two years later.

He missed out on the 2008 Afcon tournament on home soil due to injury, just as he did with the 2010 edition, but returned to national duty for the World Cup as Ghana marched on to the quarter-final.

At club level, Appiah, who played for Hearts of Oak during his time in Ghana, featured for Italian sides Juventus, Parma, Cesena, Udinese, Brescia and Bologna.

Outside Italy, he was on the books of Turkish outfit Fenerbahce and Serbian outfit.

(Originally posted by Prince Narkortu Teye)

Chelsea's James, Mount to miss rest of season

A place in Saturday's Copa America final against Brazil is the prize for the winner in Brasilia

Colombia will look to cause something of an upset when they take on Argentina in the Copa America 2021 semi-final at the Estadio Nacional Mane Garrincha on Tuesday. 

Argentina are on an 18-game unbeaten run stretching back two years and have won their last four matches, including a convincing 3-0 win against Ecuador in the quarter-final.

Lionel Messi has once again been the inspiration for Lionel Scaloni's side, with the Barcelona superstar topping the scoring charts with four goals as well as a tournament-high four assists as he chases a first senior title with La Albiceleste.

Colombia, meanwhile, lost two of their four group matches to qualify for the knockout stages in third, before edging past Uruguay on penalties after a goalless draw.

Ahead of the game, Goal has the details of how to watch on TV, stream live online, team news and more.

Game Argentina v Colombia
Date Tuesday July 6, 2021
Time 6pm PT / 9pm ET / 2am BST

TV channel, live stream & how to watch

Fox Sports 1 is showing the game live on TV in the United States (U.S.), with Univision and TUDN USA also providing coverage. An online stream for the match will be available on the Fox Sports App, Univision NOW and the TUDN App.

US TV channel Online stream
Fox Sports 1 / Univision / TUDN USA Fox Sports App / Univision NOW / TUDN App

The BBC Red Button service will have the game on TV in the United Kingdom (UK). BBC iPlayer is the online streaming service providing live coverage.

UK TV channel Online stream
BBC Red Button BBC iPlayer

Team news & rosters

Position Argentina players
Goalkeepers E. Martinez, Marchesin, Musso, Armani
Defenders Montiel, Tagliafico, L. Martinez, Molina, Romero, Pezzella, Lucas Martinez, Otamendi
Midfielders Dominquez, J. Correa, Rodriguez, Gomez, Lo Celso, De Paul, Palacios, Di Maria, Paredes, Acuna
Forwards Aguero, Lautaro Martinez, Messi, A. Correa, Alvarez, Gonzalez

Argentina will be without defender Cristian Romero through injury so German Pezzella is likely to start.

Lionel Scaloni also needs to decide whether to stick with Marcos Acuna at left-back or bring in Nicolas Tagliafico. Guido Rodriguez is also competing with Leandro Paredes for a spot in central midfield.

Predicted Argentina starting XI: E Martinez; Molina, Pezzella, Otamendi, Acuna; Paredes, De Paul, Lo Celso; Messi, Aguero, Lautaro.

Position Colombia squad
Goalkeepers Quintana, Ospina, Vargas
Defenders Lucumi, Sanchez, Cuesta, Tesillo, Mina, Munoz, Fabra, Murillo, Medina
Midfielder Cuellar, Cardona, Barrios, Cuadrado, Perez, Perlaza, Campaz
Forwards Borre, Morelos, Borja, Chara, Zapata, Diaz, Muriel

Colombia have Juan Cuadrado available again after the Juventus winger missed the quarter-final through suspension. He is likely to come straight back into the side in place of Rafael Borre.

Miguel Borja is also pushing for a start after coming off the bench for Luis Muriel against Uruguay.

Predicted Colombia starting XI: Ospina; Munoz, Mina, Sanchez, Tesillo; Cuadrado, Barrios, Cuellar, Diaz; Zapata, Borja.

Recent results & head-to-head

Last five results

Argentina results Colombia results
Argentina 3-0 Ecuador (July 4) Uruguay 0-0 Colombia (4-1P) (July 3)
Bolivia 1-4 Argentina (June 29) Brazil 2-1 Colombia (June 24)
Argentina 1-0 Paraguay (June 22) Colombia 1-2 Peru (June 21)
Argentina 1-0 Uruguay (June 19) Colombia 0-0 Venezuela (June 17)
Argentina 1-1 Chile (June 14) Colombia 1-0 Ecuador (June 14)

Head-to-head

Date Result
June 9, 2021 Colombia 2-2 Argentina
June 15, 2019 Argentina 0-2 Colombia
September 12, 2018 Colombia 0-0 Argentina
November 15, 2016 Argentina 3-0 Colombia
November 17, 2015 Colombia 0-1 Argentina
Original author: Goal

'The work doesn’t stop now' - Van Dijk sends emotional message to Liverpool fans after injury return

It is unknown if the Inter playmaker, who collapsed during his country's opening game of the tournament, will attend the festivities this weekend

Christian Eriksen, his wife and the half-dozen medical staff who attended to him following his cardiac arrest have been invited to the Euro 2020 Final by UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin.

The Denmark playmaker collapsed during the first half of the Group B opener against Finland and was rushed to hospital after resuscitated on the field at Parken Stadium.

It is currently unknown whether Eriksen will make the trip to Wembley Stadium from his home country, where he continues to recover, though the six medics are expected to attend as guests on Sunday.

What has been said?

Though UEFA have not officially made an announcement as to the invitation, paramedic Peder Ersgaard - one of the team who rushed to attend to Eriksen after he dropped to the turf a handful of minutes before the interval in Copenhagen last month - confirmed that he and his fellow professionals has accepted the offer.

"You look forward [to it] as a child does to Christmas Eve," he told Fagbladet. "It's a great feeling that you can be surprised that way, and it is a surprise; I never saw this coming. It completely swept my legs away from underneath me."

Ersgaard, who added that he was unsure who had made the final call on invitations - his partner Christian Norskov who also attended the scene, was not invited - was quick to praise the actions of his fellow professionals, adding: "I am very proud of what I did that day, but it was a team effort, not a one-man performance. It will be two anniversaries that I will never ever forget."

Will Eriksen attend?

Eriksen and his partner Sabrina Kvist Jensen "have been invited by the president in person", a UEFA spokesperson told AFP.

"We don't know if they will come or will prefer to rest," the spokesperson added.

The bigger picture

Eriksen would possibly get the chance to see Denmark reach a first major final since they shocked the world to win Euro 1992 if they defeat England at Wembley on Wednesday.

The victors will encounter either Spain or Italy in north London, with the last two sides due to meet on Sunday.

Kasper Hjulmand's side, already highly motivated following the Inter man's forced abdication from their squad, have emerged as one of the surprise packages of the tournament and remain fully convinced they can shed their underdogs tag in style.

Further reading

How Man Utd could line up with Rasmus Hojlund

19' Olmo plays a lovely ball out to Torres on the left and he drags the ball away from Di Lorenzo to open up space for a cross. He whips it towards the near post, but Jorginho gets an important touch to help it out for a corner.

17' Azpilicueta fizzes a clearance into Busquets and it's a heavy touch from him that lets Barella in to nick the ball back. The Spanish captain drags him back and gives away a free-kick in a good position through the middle, but it comes to nothing.

15' It's a loose pass from Barella which is cut out by Torres and he dances past Jorginho to get into space for a shot. He ends up dragging at it though and sends it wide from the edge of the box.

13' Busquets' throughball to Pedri catches out the Italian midfield and he plays a great pass into Oyarzabal, who timed his run perfectly to stay onside. His first touch lets him down though and Bonucci is able to get back and clear his lines.

12' Italy have only beaten Spain twice in their last 14 meetings in all competitions (D7 L5), a 2-1 friendly win in 2011 and most recently, a 2-0 victory at Euro 2016 in the round-of-16.

10' Koke plays a one-two with Busquets to open up a pocket of space through the middle and he debates having a go from distance before laying it off to Oyarzabal. He tries to drill a low cross into the box, but it's cut out by Chiellini.

8' Italy's high press is causing Spain all sorts of problems at the back as Simon's clearance is cut out by Jorginho. He switches it out to Emerson on the left, who plays a one-two with Insigne, but Oyarzabal stops him from getting a cross into the box.

6' Jorginho's pass to Immobile is cut out by Laporte and he instantly sets Spain on the counter by picking out Torres with a long ball over the top. He tries to slot it through to Olmo, but it's a poor pass from him which Donnarumma collects.

4' OFF THE POST! It's a wonderful throughball from Emerson to Barella and he takes it around Simon, who rushed off his line. He waits for backup, but none comes, so he goes it alone, chipping his effort over Simon and off the far post. It wouldn't have counted though as he'd just strayed offside.

2' Spain are seeing a lot of the ball in the opening minutes here and Azpilicueta goes long to try and get Oyarzabal in behind the defence. He tries to knock it onto Torres first time, but it's intercepted by Bonucci.

1' Oyarzabal gets the game underway for Spain! 

The teams are out on the pitch, the national anthems have been sung, and kick-off is just moments away!

This is the seventh European Championship meeting between Italy and Spain. Indeed, the two nations are meeting in the knockout stages for the fourth consecutive tournament, with Spain progressing in 2008 and winning the 2012 final before Italy eliminated then in 2016.

Luis Enrique makes three changes to the team that started against Switzerland last time out. Garcia is brought in to partner Laporte in defence again, with Olmo and Oyarzabal, who have both made big impacts from the bench in recent games, also coming in. Pau Torres and Morata drop to the bench, while Pablo Sarabia misses out with an abductor injury.

Roberto Mancini makes just one change to his side after the win over Belgium, and it's an enforced one. Leonardo Spinazzola was forced off in that game with an Achilles injury, so Emerson comes in to replace him.

SPAIN SUBS: Diego Llorente, Rodrigo, Pau Torres, Fabian Ruiz, Marcos Llorente, Thiago Alcantara, Gerard Moreno, Robert Sanchez, Adam Traore, Alvaro Morata, Jose Gaya, David de Gea.

SPAIN STARTING XI (4-3-3): Unai Simon; Cesar Azpilicueta, Eric Garcia, Aymeric Laporte, Jordi Alba; Koke, Sergio Busquets, Pedri; Ferran Torres, Mikel Oyarzabal, Dani Olmo.

ITALY SUBS:Bryan Cristante, Federico Bernardeschi, Manuel Locatelli, Rafael Toloi, Domenico Berardi, Francesco Acerbi, Alessandro Florenzi, Alessandro Bastoni, Alex Meret, Salvatore Sirigu, Matteo Pessina, Andrea Belotti.

ITALY STARTING XI (4-3-3): Gianluigi Donnarumma; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini, Emerson; Nicolo Barella, Jorginho, Marco Verratti; Federico Chiesa, Ciro Immobile, Lorenzo Insigne.

Italy edged past Belgium in their quarter-final with a 2-1 win which extended their impressive unbeaten run to 32 matches in all competitions, winning the last 13 on the bounce. They're the only team in the final four to have won all of their games in the tournament so far. They face a Spain side that were taken to penalties by Switzerland after a 1-1 draw, winning the shootout 3-1, with goalkeeper Unai Simon making three saves to help them through to this round.

Hello and welcome to live coverage of the Euro 2020 semi-final between Italy and Spain at Wembley Stadium!

Rangers respond to Ondrej Kudela being banned for 10 games by UEFA

The 28-year-old has spent all of his professional career in Tshwane where he has also played for University of Pretoria

Grant Kekana says he does not expect to march straight into the Mamelodi Sundowns starting line-up as he confirmed joining the Brazilians from their Tshwane rivals SuperSport United.

Without revealing the length of his deal at Chloorkop, Kekana said he completed his medicals on Monday and is “up for the challenge” at his new club. 

Kekana is expected to begin pre-season with Masandawana, who are yet to officially announce the signing. Kekana who also explains how the move came about. 

“I don’t expect to just walk into the team. This team has been winning trophies, so there will be added pressure and I just need to keep working hard,” Kekana told Soccer Laduma, explaining how the move came about. 

“I hope being versatile helps, but I am not here to look for any favours. I have to show that I am worthy of playing for a big team like Downs and I stay injury-free.

My agent told me there had been an enquiry from Sundowns soon after the end of the season and he asked me if I would like to take the offer. 

“I realised the fact that I am not getting any younger and I’ve done so much at SuperSport, a club which has helped me advance my career. If it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t have had this type of enquiry.

"So the right thing to do was to speak to the club – Stan Matthews [SuperSport CEO] and the team have been so good to me.

“We did medicals at the club yesterday and then we are heading for camp to start pre-season.” 

Kekana has never played for a team outside Tshwane in his professional career. 

He graduated from SuperSport's youth ranks during the 2010/11 season, before leaving for the University of Pretoria after three seasons.

After two terms at Pretoria University, he returned to Matsatsantsa where he then spent six seasons. 

“At SuperSport, when I started, there was Morgan Gould, Bongani Khumalo, Ricardo Katza and when I left now, a couple of guys like Luke Fleurs and [Thatayaone] Ditlokwe were doing well. It’s about grabbing your turn with both hands when it comes,” concluded Kekana.

Original author: Michael Madyira

'Has it ever been home?' - Schmeichel aims cheeky dig at England ahead of Euro 2020 semi-final

The Denmark goalkeeper was quick to note the Three Lions' lack of success at the European Championship thus far

Denmark goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel aimed a cheeky dig at England ahead of the teams' Euro 2020 semi-final, highlighting the Three Lions' lack of recent tournament success.

England will aim to reach their first European Championship final by beating the Danes on Wednesday, with Three Lions supporters consistently invoking the "Football's Coming Home" anthem originally made popular at Euro 96.

Schmeichel, however, asked: "Has it ever been home?" in reference to England having never experienced European Championship success.

What was said?

At a press conference on Tuesday, Schmeichel was asked what it would mean if Denmark were able to "stop it from coming home," to which he replied: "Has it ever been home? I don't know. Have you ever won it? '66? Was that not the World Cup?

"To be honest I haven't given any thought to what it would mean to stop England. It's more what it would do for Denmark. I've focused very little on the England team.

"It's what it would do for our country back home. The joy it would bring to five million back home to do something like that, to compete with the nations we are competing with. Not really a lot of feelings for England on this."

England's major tournament history

England's only major tournament win came when they lifted the 1966 World Cup on home soil, defeating West Germany 4-2 in the final. 

They've only advanced as far as the semi-finals one other time at the European Championship, reaching the final four in 1996 where they fell to Germany on penalties. 

Denmark, meanwhile, are in a Euro semi-final for the first time since 1992, when they were surprise winners of the competition.

Kasper's father Peter was in goal 29 years ago when the Danes beat Germany 2-0 in the final in Sweden.

Further reading

(Originally posted by Seth Vertelney)

Cecafa Cup: Okumbi set to ready his troops after players arrive

The Emerging Stars will learn their opponents for the annual competition on Friday, July 9

The Kenya U23 team players have reported to camp ahead of the Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup to be held in Ethiopia from July 17.

Among those who arrived are Kariobangi Sharks custodian Brian Bwire, AFC Leopards defender Collins Shichenje, Harun Mwale of Ulinzi Stars as well as midfielders Marvin Nabwire, Austin Ochieng, and Oliver Maloba.

The attacking department is made up of Tusker FC danger man Henry Meja and Gor Mahia's Benson Omalla.

The three senior players included in the Emerging Stars squad are Mwale, Wazito FC's Benard Ochieng, and Kakamega Homeboyz attacker David Odhiambo.

Head coach Stanley Okumbi is now focusing on the annual competition while looking to ensure his charges are ready for the challenge.

"We are a full house at the moment. Our focus now is to condition the team to be ready for the tough but doable tournament in Ethiopia," the Posta Rangers coach said as quoted by the FKF Website.

The draw will be conducted on Friday, July 9, with the team scheduled to leave the country five days later.

This is the first time countries in the Eastern Africa region will be sending their U23 teams to the competition.

Previously, the senior teams have been taking part but the latest development is meant to develop youngsters and make them competitive and ready when called upon for senior roles.

Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers: Brian Bwire (Kariobangi Sharks), Caleb Otieno (Gor Mahia), Dolph Junior Owino (Nairobi Stima) 

Defenders: Jimmy Ndungi (Tusker), Portipher Odhiambo (Vihiga Bullets), Silvester Owino (Kakamega Homeboyz), Collins Shichenje (AFC Leopards), Boniface Mwangemi (Kariobangi Sharks), Fredrick Alushula (Kariobangi Sharks), Harun Mwale (Ulinzi Stars), Benard Ochieng (Wazito), Lewis Bandi (AFC Leopards), Frank Odhiambo (Gor Mahia) 

Midfielders: Marvin Nabwire (AFC Leopards), Sven Yidah (Nairobi City Stars), Vincent Wasambo (KCB), Faraj Ominde (Tusker), Reagan Otieno (KCB), Oliver Maloba (Nairobi City Stars), Josephat Lopaga (Posta Rangers), Steiner Musasia (Posta Rangers), John Njuguna (Ulinzi Stars), Austin Ochieng (AFC Leopards)  

Forwards: Benson Omalla (Gor Mahia), Henry Meja (Tusker), David Odhiambo (Kakamega Homeboyz).

(Originally posted by Seth Willis)

Euro 2020 matchday LIVE: Italy vs Spain updates, news and TV reaction

Join us for live updates from the first European Championship semi-final, including the latest news from the camps and TV reaction

Kudus: Ghana and Ajax midfielder opens up over Liverpool injury

The 20-year-old attacker looks back on he setback on the night of his Champions League debut

Ajax star Mohammed Kudus believes he could have come off worse from his injury suffered on his Champions League debut against Liverpool last year.

Just when he was beginning to find his rhythm for his new side following a move from Denmark, the midfielder suffered a major setback, picking up a meniscus injury and going off as early as the ninth minute in the group stage fixture following a challenge from Fabinho.

Expected to be out of action for “several months” according to his club, he resumed training after two months on the sidelines.

“That was the first major injury I had in football, and also that was the first time I had to stay out of football for a long time,” Kudus told 3Sports.

“Normally when you play week in week out, you don’t really get time for the other aspects of your life, you know you just focus on football.

“I was very disappointed but I’m strong religiously and I really believe in God. So everything that happened, I gave thanks to him because I believe it could have been worse.”

After resuming training in December, Kudus completed his return with match action in January but another setback sent him back into the treatment room for one more month.

He returned again strongly towards the end of the season, scoring against Feyenoord and VVV in the Eredivisie.

"It went well before my injury," Kudus said in February after his injury return.

"I get along well with everyone here and I feel at home. It is a pity that we do not have the fans in the stadium, but I also feel them when they are not there. 

"I received a lot of encouragement and good wishes from supporters and that helped me in my recovery. Thanks to them!”

In all, Kudus made 17 league appearances for Ajax last season, starting in eight of the matches and scoring four goals. He also finished the term with three assists to his name.

He joined the Dutch giants on a five-year deal from Danish outfit Nordsjaelland.

 

(Originally posted by Prince Narkortu Teye)

Man City release 2022/23 home kit inspired by Colin Bell

Despite the victory, the hosts did not claim top spot in their pool after Eswatini beat Lesotho 3-1

Swallows FC midfielder Kagiso Malinga rose from the bench to grab the all-important goal which separated South Africa and Botswana in a Cosafa Cup, Group A match at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Tuesday.

Malinga decided the contest on 67 minutes to save an unimpressive Bafana Bafana side facing opponents the majority of whose players are from a league which has not been active for almost two years.

The victory was not enough to help South Africa claim top spot in Group A after Eswatini beat Lesotho earlier on at the same venue.

South Africa coach Morena Ramoreboli started with a team that hardly representative of the full Bafana squad, with goalkeeper Veli Mothwa, the Mamelodi Sundowns trio of defender Rushine De Reuck, Nyiko Mobbie and Sphelele Mkhulise as well as AmaZulu midfielder Siyethemba Sithebe the familiar faces.

Three National First Division players were started by Ramoleboli who was in charge of Bafana in the absence of Helman Mkhalele, who was advised to isolate after a Monday's round of Covid-19 testing.

SuperSport’s Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, ex-Chippa United midfielder Thatayaone Kgamanyane and former TS Galaxy defender Mosha Gaolaolwe headlined the Zebras side. 

It was Botswana’s first game since the departure of former coach Adel Amrouche, who parted ways with the team in June, and Letang Kgengwenyane was in charge on Tuesday. 

The match started on a promising note with Free State Stars’ Monnapule Saleng forcing a save from Botswana goalkeeper Ezekiel Morake two minutes into the contest. 

But from then, neither side seriously tested the other as play weighed more on the hosts, who had the likes of Mkhulise and Sithebe firing stray shots as they struggled for precision. 

It took until the half-hour mark for Botswana to trouble Bafana captain Mothwa when Francis Setsile had a shot bound for the top left corner tipped just over the bar by the AmaZulu goalkeeper. 

From the resultant corner-kick, Segolame Boy had an effort blocked on the goal-line while Gape Mohutsiwa missed the target by a whisker from the rebound. 

The start of the second half saw no improvement in terms of chances but Boy narrowly missed the target from a freekick from the edge of the box in the 52nd minute. 

Boy continued to be a big threat to Bafana when he forced a save from Mothwa eight minutes later. 

The Zebras were an improved side and Kgamanyane took advantage of a miscued clearance by Basil Mphahlele but his volley hit the crossbar with Mothwa looking helpless. 

Soon after as Botswana looked to have seized control of play, Malinga got to the end of a counter-attack to shoot the first time, at an acute angle, past Morake 11 minutes after coming on from the bench.  

As Botswana tried to hit back, Mbatshi Elias saw his shot just over the bar with 10 minutes to go.

South Africa managed to hold on as they showed no prospects of increasing their lead while risking to allow Botswana to equalise. 

Earlier on, Eswatini beat Lesotho 3-1 in the opening match of Group A. 

TS Galaxy midfielder Felix Badenhorst opened the scoreline for Eswatini in the 42nd minute but Black Leopards attacker Tumelo Khutlang beat the half-time whistle to restore parity. 

Khethokuhle Mkhontfo then reclaimed the lead for Eswatini 12 minutes into the second half, before Fanelo Mamba sealed victory for Sihlangu on 78 minutes. 

(Originally posted by Michael Madyira)

Willock receives 'daily' racist abuse online

The former Real Madrid defender has completed a switch to the Ligue 1 giants as Mauricio Pochettino continues to add star quality to his squad

Paris Saint-Germain have completed the signing of Inter full-back Achraf Hakimi.

The Morocco international will cost in the region of €60 million (£52m/$71m), plus €10m (£9m$12m) in add-ons, and he leaves the Serie A champions after just one season playing in Italy's top flight.

The transfer comes as a significant blow for Inter, with Hakimi considered to be one of the game's top attacking full-backs, although financial struggles mean the transfer has become a necessity.

What was said?

“I feel a great sense of pride today," Hakimi told PSG's official website. "After Spain, Germany and Italy, Paris Saint-Germain offers me the chance to discover a new championship with one of the most prestigious clubs in the world.

"I can’t wait to meet my new team-mates, the fans and experience the incredible colour and passion inside the Parc des Princes.

"I share the same big ambitions as the coaching staff and my teammates and will do everything I can to deliver what is expected of me.”

Why have Inter sold Hakimi?

It may seem strange that Inter are selling one of their best players having only just won the Serie A title although the financial issues at the club mean that a transfer that could be worth as much as €70m (£60m/$83m) is too good to turn down.

Indeed, the Italian's club's CEO Giuseppe Marotta admitted as much, stating that, having already seen head coach Antonio Conte depart, having to allow Hakimi to leave is a "painful moment".

He told Sky Italia: "Obviously, this is a painful moment for us, but I am an administrator who must guarantee the economic sustainability of the club during a difficult time for the world of football in general.

"Once the Hakimi operation is concluded, it will allow us to have a bit of breathing room and we really hope that we will no longer need to sell any other big players, as we want to maintain most of the squad that won the Scudetto."

Inter fans will undoubtedly be hoping that Hakimi is the last of the club's top players that will be allowed to leave, with Marotta having expressed his desire for Lautaro Martinez to stay, while Romelu Lukaku has already committed his future to the Nerazzurri.

Hakimi's stay in Italy is over, however, with the 22-year-old having made 37 appearances in all competitions for Inter during his one season at the club, helping them win the Serie A title.

Who else could PSG sign?

For PSG, meanwhile, the signing of Hakimi represents a significant coup as Mauricio Pochettino's side look to recover from what was a disappointing 2020-21 campaign that saw them miss out on the Ligue 1 title.

Georginio Wijnaldum has already arrived from Liverpool, while goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma is also expected to join on a free transfer from AC Milan.

In theory, PSG are also one of few sides who would be able to afford Lionel Messi's wages, with the Argentine now officially a free agent after his contract with Barcelona expired.

And the French giants have also begun discussions with Sergio Ramos's representatives - the former Real Madrid captain now also available on a free transfer after he failed to agree a new contract at the Bernabeu.

There have also been links with Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba, as well as Lazio forward Joaquin Correa.

Further reading

Original author: Stephen Darwin

Prediction: DC United vs Cincinnati

Video: Big Match Focus - England v Denmark | Goal.com

European Championship

16:59 BST 06/07/2021

Denmark England

Check out some surprising stats and facts ahead of England's last four clash against Denmark at Wembley.

Original author: Goal

Chelsea 0-0 Wolves: Player ratings as Thomas Tuchel's first game ends goalless

The Western Cape side continue to bolster their goalkeeping department and their latest acquisition has already begun training

Cape Town City have announced the signing of Bongani Mpandle from Maritzburg United.

The goalkeeper, who turns 29 next Monday, is the second shot-stopper to be signed by City within 24 hours following the arrival of Darren Keet on Monday.

Mpandle has already started training after he was spotted working out with the rest of the Citizens squad on Tuesday, though the club did not reveal the length of his contract.

“Cape Town City are delighted to announce the signing of South African goalkeeper Bongani Mpandle from Maritzburg United. Bongani joins new signing Darren Keet, as we prepare the new goalkeeping department for 2021/22,” City announced in a brief statement.

� | Cape Town City are delighted to announce the signing of South African goalkeeper Bongani Mpandle from Maritzburg United.

Bongani joins new signing Darren Keet, as we prepare the new goalkeeping department for 2021/22!#iamCityFC pic.twitter.com/CBNSUSsRPx

 

Mpandle has, however, struggled to command a first-team jersey in his eight seasons of playing Premier Soccer League football. 

He has largely been an understudy goalkeeper with 10 league appearances during the 2016/17 season being the highest he has ever made in a season in the PSL.  

“I’m happy to be part of Cape Town City. I’m here to learn and help the team to achieve,” Mpandle told City’s media. 

“I think we can achieve more, working as a team and having our own goals as a team.  Ja, I’m happy to work with Darren, I’ll learn more from him, as he represented the national team before.  

The goalkeeper leaves Maritzburg after five seasons with the KwaZulu-Natal club, and he has also played for Bloemfontein Celtic in the PSL.

Mpandle previously worked with coach Eric Tinkler at Maritzburg United, who, in turn, spent some time with Keet when he was assistant coach at Bidvest Wits.

“I know Coach Eric and I know the style of football that he likes to play and I think I can help the team achieve, and he’s a good guy and if you push, you will get a chance to play,” added Mpandle. 

The goalkeeper leaves Maritzburg at a time the Team of Choice also lost Kwanda Mngonyama and Bandile Shandu who were both announced as new Orlando Pirates players on Monday.


 
Original author: Michael Madyira

Lucy Bronze joins Barcelona on two-year deal

The Buccaneers have so far confirmed the signing of four players ahead of the new campaign, but their former player thinks it won't be easy for them

Ex-Orlando Pirates midfielder Benson Mhlongo has challenged the club's new signings to fight for their place in order to prove they deserve the club's jersey.

Monnapule Saleng, Goodman Mosele, Kwanda Mngonyama, and Bandile Shandu are the new players that have been signed by Bucs to strengthen the team ahead of the forthcoming campaign.

The former Bafana Bafana midfielder, however, suggests the pressure of playing for a big team means it will not be easy for the new arrivals.

"We all know that most players’ dreams are to play for the big teams and I can only congratulate and advise them to focus and work hard," Mhlongo told Sowetan.

"To play for a big team is not easy, but if they can stand the pressure of playing for a big team, they can make it because they are good players.

"There must be a competition in a big team because that will make everyone to be on their toes. If you don't have competition, then you are going to relax.

"It is good for them that they will have competition. Everyone must fight for his place. They must go there and fight, that’s why you stay in a football for long when you fight and win your jersey.

"A player must work hard to earn a place and this is the time for them to fight for their jersey. They must go there and fight."

Little-known midfielder Saleng was signed from Free State Stars on a three-year deal after finishing as the National First Division top goal-scorer last season.

Attacking midfielder Mosele joined the Buccaneers on a four-year deal, while Mngonyama and Shandu have signed for two and three years, respectively. 

Two of the new acquisitions were already rumoured to be on their way to join the Buccaneers.

The quartet have become coach Josef Zinnbauer’s first new signings ahead of the 2021/22 season.

Mosele was already strongly linked with a move to Pirates after an impressive season with Baroka the last term in which he missed just two Premier Soccer League games.

He will join his new Pirates teammates for pre-season when he returns from the Tokyo Olympic Games where he will be with the South Africa Under-23 side.

Shandu was also expected to join Pirates as some reports linked him with the Buccaneers when he left Maritzburg last week. 

Original author: Seth Willis

Transfer Talk: Bayern eye Koulibaly to set up dream duo with Upamecano

Roberto Mancini's side will look to extend their record-breaking unbeaten run with victory over La Roja in a repeat of the 2012 final

Italy take on Spain at Wembley on Tuesday with a place in the Euro 2020 final against England or Denmark the prize for the winner.

The Azzurri go into the game as favourites thanks to a record-breaking 32-game unbeaten run, most recently a fine 2-1 win against Belgium, the world's number-one ranked team, in the quarter-final.

Spain's form has been less impressive, having won just one of their three group games before needing extra-time to beat Croatia 5-3 in the last 16 and edging past Switzerland on penalties.

However, Italy have won only two matches against La Roja in their last 14 fixtures in all competitions - a friendly triumph a decade ago and their last meeting at the Euros in 2016.

Tuesday's game is also a repeat of the Euro 2012 in Kyiv, which Spain won 4-0.

Ahead of the game, Goal has the details of how to watch on TV, stream live online, team news and more.

Game Italy vs Spain
Date Tuesday July 6, 2021
Time 12pm PT / 3pm ET / 8pm BST

TV channel, live stream & how to watch

ESPN is showing the game live on TV in the United States (U.S.) An online stream for the match will be available on ESPN+ and the ESPN App.

US TV channel Online stream
ESPN  ESPN+ and the ESPN App

BBC One will be showing the game live on TV in the United Kingdom (UK). BBC iPlayer is the online streaming service providing live coverage.

UK TV channel Online stream
BBC One BBC iPlayer

Team news & rosters

Position Italy players
Goalkeepers Donnarumma, Meret, Sirigu
Defenders Bonucci, Chiellini, Spinazzola, Toloi, Acerbi, Di Lorenzo, Emerson, Florenzi, Bastoni
Midfielders Cristante, Verratti, Barella, Castrovilli, Pessina, Jorginho, Locatelli
Forwards Immobile, Belotti, Insigne, Berardi, Bernardeschi, Raspadori, Chiesa

Italy will be without Leonardo Spinazzola against Spain after he suffered an Achilles injury in the win over Belgium.

The Roma wing-back has been one of the players of the tournament but now faces several months on the sidelines, with Emerson Palmieri set to replace him in the starting XI.

Alessandro Florenzi is also back in contention after a calf problem, though Giovanni Di Lorenzo is likely to keep his place at right-back.

Predicted Italy starting XI: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bonucci, Chiellini, Emerson; Barella, Jorginho, Verratti; Chiesa, Immobile, Insigne.

Position Spain squad
Goalkeepers Simon, Sanchez, De Gea
Defenders Garcia, P. Torres, Laporte, Azpilicueta, Alba, Gaya, D. Llorente
Midfielders Olmo, M. Llorente, Busquets, Rodri, Sarabia, Koke, Alcantara, Ruiz
Forwards Moreno, F. Torres, Morata, Pedri, Oyarzabal, Traore

Pablo Sarabia is doubtful for Spain after he was forced off early on against Switzerland with a muscle problem.

RB Leipzig's Dani Olmo, who came on for Sarabia against the Swiss, is battling with Gerard Moreno to replace him in the starting line-up.

Predicted Spain starting XI: Simon; Azpilicueta, Laporte, Garcia, Alba; Koke, Busquets, Pedri; F Torres, Morata, Moreno.

Betting odds, tips & predictions

Italy are priced at 6/4 (2.50) to win in 90 minutes and at 7/10 (1.70) to make the final.

Spain can be backed at 21/20 (2.05) to qualify and at 2/1 (3.00) to win without extra time. The draw is priced at 21/10 (3.10). 

Full betting preview here

Recent results & head-to-head

Last five results

Italy results Spain results
Belgium 1-2 Italy (July 2) Switzerland 1-1 Spain (1-3P) (July 2)
Italy 2-1 Austria (AET) (June 26) Croatia 3-5 Spain (AET) (June 28)
Italy 1-0 Wales (June 20) Slovakia 0-5 Spain (June 23)
Italy 3-0 Switzerland (June 16) Spain 1-1 Poland (June 19)
Turkey 0-3 Italy (June 11) Spain 0-0 Sweden (June 14)

Head-to-head

Date Result
September 2, 2017 Spain 3-0 Italy
Ocotber 6, 2016 Italy 1-1 Spain
June 27, 2016 Italy 2-0 Spain
March 24, 2016 Italy 1-1 Spain
March 5, 2014 Spain 1-0 Italy

Conte urges Spurs board to explain strategy

The Manchester United full-back's displays at the tournament have earned widespread plaudits

Luke Shaw’s performances at Euro 2020 have been given the seal of approval by Roberto Carlos, after the England man earned comparisons with the Brazilian legend.

Shaw has been one of the standout players for the Three Lions during the tournament, particularly in the knockout stages, where he has three assists in two games.

After a man-of-the-match display in the quarter-final against Ukraine on Saturday a nickname given to him by Manchester United fans earlier this season -  ‘Shawberto Carlos’ – gained national attention, with Carlos now responding to the comparisons.

What did Carlos say about Shaw?

When asked for his thoughts on Shaw’s performances so far, Carlos told PA: “You can see he’s very motivated.

“He’s really improving, his performance against Ukraine was very good. He’s been an important part of this English team, along with all the others.

“He’s been improving each game and I think he’s got everything to get to the top. He’s the left-back for England, that in itself says a lot.”

Asked about the comparisons with himself the former defender, who earned 125 caps for Brazil between 1992 and 2006, was keen to play them down, saying the game was different when he played.

“I don’t like comparing,” added the 48-year-old, who was part of the Brazil squad that lifted the 2002 World Cup. “It’s two completely different periods in football. I had my time and now he’s having his.

“Similarities I think could be that he has strength and the desire to win, just like I did.”

The bigger picture

Though the ‘Shawberto Carlos’  comparisons have been partly made in jest, the fact Shaw is being compared to such an legendary player highlights how well he has performed in the tournament.

After missing the opening game win against Croatia Shaw has started every game since, with his attacking threat growing to match his defensive capabilities in wins against Germany and Ukraine.

His impressive displays come off the back of a fine season with Manchester United, which has seen Shaw revive his career under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after his much-publicised struggles under previous boss Jose Mourinho.

He is almost certain to start Wednesday's huge semi-final against Denmark at Wembley as England look to reach their first major tournament final since 1966.

Further reading

A look back at Gareth Bale's extraordinary Euro 2016

The highly-rated midfielder continues to see his stock soar, but his representative says no exit will be sought at Elland Road
Original author: Chris Burton

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