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Spain midfielder Rodri admits there has been a “fear” among the squad this week that a positive test for Covid-19 could rule them out of the European Championship after an outbreak threatened to derail their preparations.

Midfielder Sergio Busquets and defender Diego Llorente both tested positive and were forced to self-isolate, though Llorente was quickly able to re-join the squad after he subsequently tested negative.

That raised fears among the rest of the players that a rush of further positive tests would follow – though that has not proved the case so far.

What did Rodri say?

Spain’s Las Rozas training ground was placed into lockdown in response to Busquets’ positive test, with all the players tested daily for the virus as a precaution, while a “parallel bubble” of players was created should there be a raft of positive cases.

Rodri admits that created a tense atmosphere as they waited for the results, knowing their tournament could be ended at any moment.

“For the last few days, every morning when the PCRs [tests] are done, there’s been this idea going round your head: ‘Please, please don’t let there be a positive'. It would be very cruel,” he told the Guardian.

“There’s a fear, not so much for our health, as we’re young and it seems unlikely that anything serious could happen to us, but that you could miss the Euros. Busi [Busquets] caught it, he doesn’t feel anything [symptoms] at all but you know that could mean missing out. It happened to Diego, although fortunately it was a false positive and he can come back but that idea leaves you with a really bad feeling, a sadness. The situation is what it is, though; we know it’s the age we’re living in. And luckily it now seems like we’re moving forward.”

Outbreak disrupts training plans

With the training ground locked down players have been unable to train or relax together as they prepare for Monday’s tournament opener against Sweden.

The squad have also agreed to be vaccinated against the virus following the outbreak, though they will not have full protection straight away.

Rodri admits the disrupted training regime has been frustrating but understands why every precaution needs to be taken for everyone’s safety.

“These last few days we haven’t been able to work the way that we would like,” he said.

“We’ve been doing individual training, more physical. That’s useful in terms of fitness, but we haven’t had the collective preparation you need: sessions where there’s ball work, passes, possession, mini-games, combinations. We haven’t done much with the ball, which is what really makes things function.

“In the residency, the common spaces have been closed. We got rid of any type of contact. Meals have been organised so that everything is done separately, the tables are apart, we eat in shifts. It’s all done individually, everything we do. Everyone’s in their own rooms.

“It does end up feeling like a long time. It’s a price to pay, but we don’t mind if that’s what it takes to ensure there are no more [Covid] positives. And if there are no late setbacks we’ll soon get back to normal, begin the Euros, which is what we all want.”

On the vaccine, he added: “They vaccinated us and I’m fine. No symptoms or side-effects. It’s good news that they’ve given us all the vaccine at last and we can get that bit of tranquillity; we can all be calmer now.”

Further reading

Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has revealed his desire to work with the governor of Kogi state Yahaya Bello for the betterment of Nigerians.

The ex-Super Eagles captain paid a courtesy visit to the governor on Sunday and praised his contribution to the progress of Kogi State.

Mikel also promised to support Bello in his future political endeavours and help foster youth development.

“It is an honour for me to finally meet his Excellency personally after all the good things I have heard and read about him from not just the people of Kogi State but from Nigerians,” Mikel said as per the Guardian.

“My main aim is to come here to show my appreciation and to thank him for all the things he has been doing for the people and also to support him in whatever future political positions he wants to go into.

“I will like to be there to support him, to be there by his side through this journey for him to achieve whatever he wants which is for the betterment of Nigeria.

“What better person to lead the youths than him, because he has been doing all these good works and that is why I am here to see whatever way I can come in.

“To get the youths together to know and see how we can make things better for our country and how we can align to achieve all that”

Bello, meanwhile, is delighted with the visit from the former Super Eagles captain and hopes to work with him to improve the economy, healthcare, and security among others.

“We can always come from our comfort zone to support each other. If we do not take charge we are going to blame ourselves tomorrow. The opportunity has come and it is now, not a second later,” he said.

“So you are going to integrate with us, not just as the superstar, Mikel Obi, but as one who will be in tune with what is happening at home politically.

“In the western world, because they have political stability that is why there is safety and security. We can as well do the same. First economic stability that will guarantee security and safety and then every other thing will follow.

“Even if it is just to talk, you have millions of followers, our achievements are online where you can click, take your time to go through.

“When you go through, send it through your social media handles and tell your advocates and let them see it.”

Mikel currently plays for Stoke City and was recently handed a contract extension after delivering impressive performances during his debut season with the Championship side.

Austria goalscorer Michael Gregoritsch was overcome by emotion after helping lead his country to a competition-opening win over North Macedonia on Sunday.

Gregoritsch scored the second of three Austria goals as he was joined on the scoresheet by Stefan Lainer and Marko Arnautovic in the 3-1 win.

And, after the victory, the 27-year-old Augsburg attacker admitted that he was "overwhelmed" as he scored a goal in his first game in a major tournament.

What did Gregoritsch say?

"It's fantastic. That means everything to me," he told ORF while fighting back tears. "It's my brother's birthday, I've had a difficult year. It was for those who believed in me: my family, my girlfriend. It's wonderful, it was world class."

He added in an interview with Euro2020.com: “I’ve had a difficult year, two years and it wasn’t a given that I’d be in the final Euros squad.

"I’ve given my all in every training and thank God I scored. I’m totally overwhelmed right now.”

Bouncing back from 2016

This tournament marks only the third time Austria have qualified for the Euros, having previously featured in 2008 and 2016.

In both competitions, Austria were eliminated in the group stage, earning just one point in each tournament.

 As a member of that 2016 team, David Alaba says this group is desperate to take things a step further and make a true mark on this summer's Euros.

"We're very happy because we wanted to win this first game, we wanted to start well in this tournament," the newly-signed Real Madrid star said.

"In 2016 we didn't start well. We have a really good squad with a lot of potential. You could see it today with two guys who came off the bench and scored so that was very important for us."

A day to remember for North Macedonia

Despite the defeat, Sunday was a memorable day for North Macedonia, who are making their first appearances in the competition.

The debutants also scored their first-ever goal in the Euros, with the legendary Goran Pandev the scorer.

"I am so happy for Goran because he scored a historic first goal for North Macedonia at the Euros but we must now turn our attention to the remaining two group matches." manager Igor Angeloski said after the game. "I am also at a loss of words to describe how I feel about the fantastic atmosphere our fans generated. We played against a team that never stops running and tried to close them down as much as we could."

He added: "Playing our first-ever European Championship game was a massive experience and there was no way back after we conceded an unfortunate third goal in the closing stages.

"We have to get some rest now as we're still in with a chance. We face a difficult next match against Ukraine and we have to take the game to them and go all out for a win because we have nothing to lose."

Further reading

Former Orlando Pirates striker Phumudzo Manenzhe believes that AmaZulu FC will find it difficult to retain their best players during the upcoming transfer window. 

Usuthu are coming off their best season in the PSL era as they achieved their highest finish in the league when they clinched a secured second position behind champions, Mamelodi Sundowns.

Therefore, the KwaZulu-Natal giants qualified for the Caf Champions League for the first time and Manenzhe believes that the ambitious club will able to sustain its success.

However, the retired striker said that keeping key players will be the Durban-based side's biggest challenge. 

"I don't think AmaZulu FC will find it hard to maintain their 2020/21 PSL success, I think they know [that, but] will they be able to keep their best players?" Manenzhe told the media.

"Because we've already seen Sibusiso Mabiliso leaving the club, their challenge will be keeping their best players from going to Gauteng to play for these teams."

Mabiliso was one of AmaZulu's most consistent performers and the 22-year-old left-back has been tipped to join Chiefs when the transfer window opens next month by recent reports.

The new Bafana Bafana international fuelled speculation that he's on his way to the Soweto giants after he announced his departure from Usuthu over a week ago.

AmaZulu's KwaZulu-Natal rivals, Lamontville Golden Arrows, also enjoyed a successful 2020/21 season as they secured their highest finish in the PSL era after clinching a fourth-place finish in the league.

Their influential players, Ntsako Makhubela, Devine Lunga and Nkosinathi Sibisi have strongly been linked with big spenders, Sundowns.

However, Manenzhe, who is a former South Africa under-20 international, believes that Arrows will be able to replace their key players with youngsters from their academy.

"For Golden Arrows, I don't think it will be a problem because if another one goes, you will find two or three that will come out from the development struggling because I feel they have a strong development," he concluded. 

Sibisi was nurtured in the Arrows academy, before being promoted to the first team and he is now a Bafana international having made his debut for the national team against Uganda in a friendly match on Thursday.

Goalkeeper Brandon Petersen has revealed he still fancies a move to Kaizer Chiefs as opposed to other teams that have shown interest in his services as well.

The former Bidvest Wits custodian, who is currently a free agent, was a target for ex-Amakhosi coach Gavin Hunt at the beginning of the 2020/21 season.

However, the transfer ban imposed on the club meant the player could not be signed at that time.

While Hunt has since departed the club, the player has been regularly linked with a move to the team and he has conceded he would love to join Chiefs.

"We are still busy planning now, my agent will see what the next move is," Peterson answered when asked by KickOff whether Amakhosi have made contact recently.

"The thing is I have been in talks with Chiefs, as you know that coach Gavin [Hunt] was there. And obviously, coach Gavin [Hunt] is not there anymore, but obviously, it's something that's still on the cards, but there's nothing for sure yet.

"When the opportunity is there [to join Chiefs], why not? Chiefs is one of the biggest teams in Africa. So obviously it will be a big opportunity for me. If you look at the calibre of keepers they have at Chiefs you know, it's not gonna be a walk-in and play. 

"I don't like freebies, I like to work for my place so, I don't expect anyone to hand me the number one jersey. I'm always up for a challenge."

The 26-year-old has further revealed the teams who had approached him when they realized he was a free agent.

"Like I say I still have to plan out the future and see what's going to work out for me," Peterson added.

"Last season when they found out that I don't have a club obviously there were a few teams you know. In the beginning, it was [Orlando] Pirates, and then Chiefs came, and then AmaZulu came.

"But because it is a new season there will be a few teams because I'm a free agent."

Now that he is not with any team, what has he been doing in preparations for the new campaign?

"The thing is I was recovering from an injury that I sustained just before the lockdown [owing to Covid-19]," he continued.

"But for now, I have a 10-month-old baby. I'm enjoying my time with him, my daughter, and my wife. And still trying to keep fit.

"At the moment I'm in Cape Town but I'm going back to Joburg soon. I bought a house in Joburg when I was at Wits, I'm staying in Joburg."  

Gareth Southgate has come to Harry Kane's defence following a quiet afternoon for the England captain in their Euro 2020 victory against Croatia at Wembley Stadium.

The Three Lions skipper, on the back of a third Premier Legaue Golden Boot-winning campaign with Tottenham this season, was unable to find the mark in the opening game of Group D, with Raheem Sterling's tidy finish the difference in London.

The Spurs forward was kept relatively buttoned up by his opponents throughout, restricted to fewer touches than any other member of England's starting line-up, but speaking after the full-time whistle, his coach was quick to highlight his contributions throughout.

What has been said?

"I think he led the line really well," Southgate told his post-match press conference. "It was a game where he had to take a lot of physical buffeting.

"A lot of the game for him today was to link and create spaces, which he did for the goal, to let others play. There are days when chances will fall to him but today he was really tightly marked by their team.

"They know what a threat he is, [and they] crowded [him] out. [I've] not seen the chance at far post yet, to see how good that was. But he brings so much more to our team than the goals."

Southgate praises midfield contribution

The 50-year-old was also keen to counter suggestions that his side are struggling to get players in behind Kane as a target man, pointing to the scorching conditions at Wembley as a key factor in their more measured approach.

"It happened a fair amount and we got Kalvin and Mason in there too," he added. "Part of that was the heat, incredible conditions.

"They're fortunate [they] could keep [it] better than [the] team I played in as we'd have been chasing forever!

"We knew we had to pick moments when to keep possession and get behind. You always have to have runs to disrupt the back-line."

Further reading

A fan is in serious condition after falling during England's Euro 2020 match against Croatia.

The supporter is said to have fallen from the stands shortly after the match at Wembley began.

A spokesperson at Wembley confirmed that the person was treated and then taken to hospital.

What has been said?

"We can confirm that a spectator fell from the stands just after kick off in the match between England and Croatia at Wembley Stadium," the spokesperson said.

"The spectator was given on-site medical attention and was then taken to hospital in a serious condition.

"We will continue to work with UEFA to ensure the matter is fully investigated and we are continuing to monitor the situation."

How did the game go?

England secured a 1-0 win in their opening game of the tournament.

Raheem Sterling made the difference for the Three Lions when he got on the end of a Kalvin Phillips pass and sent it beyond Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.

Manager Gareth Southgate was relieved to see his side get off to a good start, telling BBC Radio 5 Live: "You know if you don't win the first game, the pressure ramps up.

"We have two really difficult games left in this group and we made a good step forward today, but [there are] important steps to go to qualify."

Who do England face next?

Southgate's side will take on Scotland in their next match at Wembley on June 18.

Four days later they will meet Czech Republic in the last game of Group D.

Further reading

Kalvin Phillips has been hailed by Germany legends Mesut Ozil and Michael Ballack, among others, following a superb maiden tournament display for England in victory over Croatia at Wembley in the pair's Euro 2020 opener.

The Leeds United playmaker arguably proved to be the Three Lions' best player in their Group B clash with their old World Cup foe, anchoring a fine team performance in only his ninth game for his country.

The 25-year-old, playing in the Championship at Elland Road only a year ago, was on hand to set up Raheem Sterling's matchwinner just before the hour-mark, and his display has now drawn the plaudits of several major faces from across football.

What has been said?

Phillips 'happy' with breakout performance

Named as part of an unexpected double pivot alongside Declan Rice in the absence of Jordan Henderson, Phillips arguably remained the most unknown commodity of England's midfield options heading into the tournament, at least on the international stage.

Speaking afterwards, however, the playmaker told BBC Sport that he was delighted with his turn at Wembley in front of 18,497 fans, in particular nailing his assist for Sterling.

"It's a great result and I'm happy with my performance," he stated. "There are two group games left and we need to perform like that - if not better.

"As soon as we finished celebrating [with Raheem Sterling] it's the first time I have found him with a pass since I've linked up with England."

Midfielder rubbishes Rice competition

With Henderson still sidelined after a prolonged injury, Phillips has capably filled the void, though many expect he may be squeezed out when the Liverpool man returns, leaving him locked against Rice for the other spot in midfield - but he has sought to dampen any such speculation of rivalry.

"There's a lot of talk about me and Declan Rice fighting for one position but when we play together," he added. "I think we play really well. It's an honour to play with him.

"It's a great feeling to get an assist and a great feeling for the three points. I'm laid back - that's the kind of person I am regardless of what is thrown at me. I just try and take it in my stride.

"If I didn't have the team around me and the coaching staff around me to make me feel like that then I don't think it would be possible."

Further reading

Gor Mahia head coach Carlos Manuel Vaz Pinto has stated he did not expect to get into penalties with Bidco United in the FKF Shield Cup.

The reigning league champions won 4-1 in penalties to set up a Mashemeji Derby with AFC Leopards, in the FKF Shield Cup final, after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
In the Sunday game at the Utalii Grounds, Kenneth Muguna opened the scoring in favour of K'Ogalo with David Orem replying for the opponents.

Gad Mathews saved a Zacharia Gathu penalty with Orem shooting wide while Anthony Simasi managed to beat the goalkeeper.

K'Ogalo scored all their penalties through Alpha Onyango, Miheso, John Macharia, and Onyango to set up a Mashemeji Derby final against AFC Leopards who beat Equity FC 6-5 on penalties.

What did Pinto say after the match?

We conceded the first goal from our mistake, and had chances which we did not utilise," the Portuguese told Goal .

"The second half was not easy, and the pitch made it more difficult. We did not expect to get into penalties, we had aimed at winning within 90 minutes, but we did not manage. Bidco are a good team in the league and have given us a good game. 

"As a coach, it is important to get into the final for the first time since 2013. It is an opportunity to get a ticket to Caf [competition]. It will be tough against the Leopards but my players will give everything."

What did Anthony Akhulia say after the Bidco loss?

"We conceded first but managed to get back into the game which shows my players were mentally strong," the tactician told Goal.

"The penalties are tricky, you might practice them but in a game situation, it is tough. It has been a good season for us, making our debut in the game and reaching the semis is no mean achievement.  

"We are targeting the final next season. Against KCB it will be a very different game and a different approach."

 Gor Mahia will now play AFC Leopards - who eliminated Equity 6-5 on penalties, with the overall winner representing the nation in next season's Caf Confederation Cup. 

Yanga SC have come out to reveal why they are in love with signing players from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

At least in every transfer window, the Jangwani giants have always gone for players from DR Congo with the latest reports indicating they have already sealed the signing of AS Vita right-back Djuma Shabani ahead of the new season.

During the last transfer window, Yanga signed two Congolese players Mukoko Tonombe and Tuisila Kisinda both from AS Vita and they are among the players shining in the Mainland Premier League and have helped the team to second position on the 18-team table and they are also in the semi-finals of the domestic cup.

Yanga’s Vice-Chairman of Players’ Registration Committee, Hersi Said has explained apart from having a good relationship with DR Congo clubs, they are more attracted to players’ from the country because of their commitment and discipline.

What has been said?

“You can look at players like Mukoko [Tonombe] and Tuisila [Kisinda], who always thrive to give out their best to help the team and they do show high commitment plus discipline in the team. We also have a vibrant connection with DR Congo clubs,” Hersi said as quoted by Daily News.

“But, I have come here because of the quality of the player we want to sign for next season. He has shown a big impact in the Caf Champions League and the team he plays for has won the Congo Premier League title.

“To me, it is a privilege if you manage to get such a player. That is why we have come here to seek his services at our club.”

Yanga to sign only Nabi targets

Hersi has further stated the signings they will make for the new campaign have been shortlisted by coach Nasreddine Nabi insisting he is the one who will assess them.

“We will do whatever we can to make sure that the requirements of the coach are met in order to strength our team and make it very competitive for next season's duels,” Hersi continued.

Yanga are currently sitting second on the 18-team league table on 61 points from 29, six fewer than table-toppers Simba SC, who have 67 from 27 matches, and they still have two matches in hand.

Yanga will next face Ruvu Shooting in a league assignment on June 15.

Kenya international Jesse Were and Kelvin Kampamba struck to hand the Zambian Super League title to Zesco United against Napsa Stars at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on Sunday.

Were - the all-time top scorer for Zesco United - scored in the first half before Kampamba added the second in the other half as the hosts emerged 2-0 winners against the struggling side.

Were had the first chance in the eighth minute, but he was not clinical enough as his effort was saved by the goalkeeper, Shaban Odhoji in the Napsa Stars goal. A minute later, the Kenyan goalkeeper was alert enough to save the Pensioners from conceding as he collected a powerful header by Samuel Sikaonga.

In the 11th minute, a combination of Simon Nkhata and Tapson Kaseba almost gave Napsa Stars the lead, but the former was flagged down because he was in an offside position while he received the final cross.

Both Kampamba and Thabni Kamusoko were unable to break the deadlock in the 16th and 19th minutes, respectively, with Zesco United determined to get the first goal. For the second time, Were did not manage to beat the former Gor Mahia goalkeeper as a close-range shot by the ex-Tusker striker was collected with ease a minute past the half-hour mark.

But in the 39th minute, Were - who previously earned his 100th goal for Timu ya Ziko - managed to find the back of the net and could have earned a brace, but Odhoji denied him again in the 45th minute. Kampamba was unlucky to double the lead with two of his efforts in the 50th and 51st minutes stopped by Odhoji, who was the busier of the two goalkeepers.

Kaseba came close to equalising for Napsa Stars in the 52nd minute, but a largely untested Toaster Nsabata stopped his effort from finding the target.  

The hosts were dominant all through especially in the remaining 20 minutes and they doubled the scoreline in the 80th minute through Kampamba. The Ndola side emerged winners to claim the trophy despite struggling in the opening stages of the second half.

Zesco United XI: Toaster Nsabata, Simon Silwimba, John Chishimba, Solomon Sakala, Adrian Chama, Samuel Sikaonga, John Ching'andu, Thabani Kamusoko, Winston Kalengo, Jesse Were, Kelvin Kampamba.

Napsa Stars XI: Shaban Odhoji, Gift Zulu, Daniel Obeng, David Odhiambo, Luka Banda, Dickson Chapa, Simon Nkhata, Doisy Soko, Tapson Kaseba, Jimmy Mukeya, Danny Silavwe.

Gor Mahia defeated Bidco United 4-1 in penalties to set up a Mashemeji Derby with AFC Leopards in the FKF Shield Cup final after a 1-1 score in regulation time.

In the Sunday game at the Utalii Grounds, Kenneth Muguna opened the scoring in favour of K'Ogalo with David Orem replying for the opponents.

It was the Football Kenya Federation Premier League defending champions who started the game on a high and made an attempt just two minutes into the game. Muguna was left with a lot of space and tried his luck but he failed to hit the target.

But as the time went by, K'Ogalo was growing in confidence and their nice build-up in the fourth minute ended with the free-kick in a promising position. Muguna took it well and managed to beat the goalkeeper to give his team the lead.

Karim Abdul Nikiema would have done better in the 12th minute when the goalscorer set him up. However, he failed to beat the goalkeeper from close range.

The first shot for the Thika-based charges came in the 17th minute. Gor Mahia's defence failed to properly mark the opposition so Alex Juma unleashed a fierce strike but Gad Mathews came to the team's rescue with a decent save.

Two minutes later, the custodian had no answer to Orem. A ball was floated in from the right and the forward capitalised on poor communication at the back to pounce on the ball and score the equalizer.

In the 40th minute, Clifton Miheso did well to hold two defenders but shot across the goal as the former champions pushed for the second goal, but it was not to be as the half-time whistle ensured the two teams were tied one all.

After the break, it was Bidco United who showed intent by starting the game on a high. They pushed forward hoping to break K'Ogalo's defense once again, but it was not to be.

Miheso was brought down about 25-yards from the Bidco goal. He rose up to take the set-piece but the goalkeeper ensured the ball did not hit the back of the net.

K'Ogalo opted to play with three defenders at the back in the 66th minute and introduced Samuel Onyango in place of Andrew Juma to pile pressure in Bidco's defence.

Ernest Wendo was lucky not to be sent off after intentionally stamping on Gathu Zacharia with five minutes to go. Philemon Otieno was sent off in the 87th minute after retaliating to what he felt was a foul from Gathu.

With no team getting another goal, the match was to be decided by penalties. Mathews saved Gathu's penalty with Orem shooting wide while Anthony Simasi managed to beat the goalkeeper.

K'Ogalo scored all their penalties through Alpha Onyango, Miheso, John Macharia, and Onyango to set up a Mashemeji Derby final against AFC Leopards who beat Equity FC 6-5 on penalties.

The July 4 winner will represent the country in the Caf Confederation Cup.

Gor Mahia: Gad Mathews, Philemon Otieno, Geoffrey Ochieng, Frank Odhiambo, Andrew Juma, Haron Shakava, Ernest Wendo, Alpha Onyango, Kenneth Muguna, Abdul Karim, Clifton Miheso

Subs: Caleb Otieno, Fred Nkata, Joachim Ochieng, John Ochieng, Sydney Ochieng, Nicholas Omondi, Samuel Onyango, John Macharia, Jules Ulimwengu

Bidco United: Adisa Omar, David Kalama, Geoffrey Gitau, Francis Oduor, Anthony Simasi, Peter Nzuki, Alex Juma, Jacob Onyango, David Orem, Gathu Zacharia, Stephen Waruru

Subs: Edwin Obwabani, Lambert Otieno, Kassim Mwinyi, Wilson Anekeya, Steven Okiro, Stephen Obukui, Batts Awita, Nelson Chieta, Hillary Shilaho