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Osimhen scores sixth Serie A goal as Napoli push for Champions League spot

The Nigeria forward came off the bench to seal the Blues' emphatic home victory against Simone Inzaghi's men

Victor Osimhen scored his sixth Serie A goal of the season in Napoli's 5-2 hammering of Lazio on Thursday night.

After he failed to find the back of the net in the Blues' 1-1 draw with Inter Milan on Sunday, the Super Eagles forward came off the bench to seal his team's big victory at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Lorenzo Insigne's double and goals from Mattaeo Politano and Dries Mertens powered Gennaro Gattuso's men to a comfortable 4-0 lead but quick-fire efforts from Ciro Immobile and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic in the 70th and 74th minutes respectively were not enough to inspire Lazio's comeback.

Osimhen replaced Mertens - who became Napoli's all-time top scorer in Serie A with 102 goals - in the 72nd minute and eight minutes later, the Nigerian benefitted from Hirving Lozano's assist before blasting home Napoli's fifth goal of the night which sealed all three points.

The strike was Osimhen's third goal in his last five league appearances and he appears to have rediscovered his goalscoring touch after enduring a nine-match goal drought earlier this year.

The 22-year-old has now scored six goals after 18 appearances in his debut Serie A campaign following his big-money move from French Ligue 1 club Lille last August.

Also in action in Naples were Senegal centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly who played the entire duration for the hosts while Algeria’s Mohamed Fares featured for Lazio and Ivory Coast’s Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro was introduced with seven minutes left on the clock.

Although they are fifth in the Serie A table with 63 points from 32 matches, the triumph boosted Napoli's push for Champions League qualification as they are two points behind fourth-placed Juventus and third-placed Juventus.

Lazio, meanwhile, are sixth in the standings with 58 points though they have a game in hand.

Osimhen will be expected to build on Thursday's goal when Napoli travel to Torino for their next Serie A fixture on Monday.

Original author: Taiye Taiwo

Leicester City's Iheanacho sets new personal scoring record in Premier League

The Super Eagles star continued his impressive goalscoring run with another effort that sealed a vital win for the Foxes on Thursday night

Kelechi Iheanacho has set a new personal scoring record in the Premier League with his ninth goal of the season in Leicester City's 3-0 thrashing of West Bromwich Albion.

The Nigeria international has surpassed his previous record of eight goals in a league season which was achieved after 26 matches in the 2015-16 campaign at Manchester City.

After grabbing the match-winning effort that sent Leicester City into the FA Cup final on Sunday, the 24-year-old continued his goalscoring form as the Foxes bounced back to winning ways in the English top-flight on Thursday night.

Jamie Vardy opened the scoring for the hosts at the King Power Stadium in the 23rd minute and they immediately doubled their lead courtesy of Johnny Evans' goal three minutes later.

In the 36th minute, Iheanacho compounded West Brom's woes after combining with Vardy to complete their first-half dominance and end their back-to-back defeats in the league.

The effort also took the Super Eagles striker's tally to 13 goals in all competitions in 2021, making him the second-highest scorer for a Premier League club after Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane with 15 goals so far since the start of the year.

Across all competitions, Iheanacho has scored 16 goals for the Foxes – nine in the Premier League with three and four goals in the Uefa Europa League and the FA Cup respectively.

Thursday's victory stretched Leicester City's lead in the third position to 59 points after 32 games, and they are four points above fourth-placed Chelsea and fifth-placed West Ham United.

Next up for Iheanacho and Ndidi's Leicester City is a Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace at the King Power Stadium on Monday with the former aiming to equal Odion Ighalo's record of 17 goals in a single campaign.

The ex-Manchester United star, who now plies his trade in Saudi Arabia, scored 17 goals for Watford in all competitions during his debut Premier League season in the 2015-16.

Original author: Taiye Taiwo

Red-hot Iheanacho continues scoring form as Leicester City decimate Ajayi’s West Bromwich Albion

The 24-year-old was again on the scoresheet as the Foxes handed a heavy defeat to the Baggies at King Power Stadium

Kelechi Iheanacho found the back of the net while Semi Ajayi featured as Leicester City secured a 3-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion in Thursday’s Premier League game.

Iheanacho has been delivering terrific performances for the Foxes this season and against the Baggies he again shone, increasing his tally in the encounter.

The centre-forward was handed a starting role, paring Jamie Vardy in Leicester's attack and continued his fine understanding with the England international.

His compatriot Ajayi was a second-half substitute but could not help the Baggies from avoiding the heavy defeat which further dealt a big blow to their chances of maintaining their Premier League status at the end of the season. 

Iheanacho hit the ground running in the encounter and came close to opening the scoring as early as the third minute when he dribbled past his markers before unleashing a ferocious shot towards goal but goalkeeper Sam Johnstone managed to parry the effort.

The Foxes eventually broke West Brom’s tough defense in the 23rd minute when Vardy fire home his effort after benefiting from a fine square pass from Timothy Castagne.

Three minutes later, Jonny Evans doubled Leicester City’s lead, powering a fine header into the back of the net.

Iheanacho then scored a superb effort in the 36th minute after a fine combination with Vardy to ensure the Foxes headed into the half-time break on a 3-0 lead.

After the restart, West Brom manager Sam Allardyce made a number of changes in an attempt to turn around the game to his favour, including introducing Super Eagles defender Ajayi for Callum Robinson.

The tactical changes, however, did little to alleviate the pains of the Baggies as Brendan Rodgers’ men continued their domination and could have further increased their lead in the 86th minute when Iheanacho fired a shot but was deflected off target.

West Brom however, managed not to concede more goals as the Foxes clinched their 18th league win of the season.

The victory ensured Leicester maintained their third spot on the Premier League table after gathering 59 points from 32 games.

Iheanacho featured for the duration of the game and has now bagged 16 goals and provided five assists across all competitions this season in as many appearances.

The defeat, meanwhile, further condemned West Brom to the relegation zone with 24 points from 32 matches.

The Nigeria stars will hope to continue their consistent performances for their respective clubs in their next outings.

 

 

Original author: Gbenga Adewoye

'First of many' - Lampard trusts Mount to captain Chelsea again after performance in FA Cup win

The Nigerian and Cameroonian were in impressive form for their Israeli top-flight side, with goals against Bnot Netanya

Nigeria's Uchechi Sunday and Cameroon's Genevieve Mbeleck were on target for Maccabi Kiryat Gat as their side crushed Bnot Netanya 5-0 to reach the Israeli Women's Cup final on Wednesday.

The African duo has been in breathtaking form this term, combining well to inspire their side to wins and kept them in the frame for a domestic double, after a trophyless spell last term. 

To reach the semis, Maccabi Kiryat Gat had edged Ironi Ramat HaSharon 2-0 in the quarter-final, while Bnot Netanya had defeated Hapoel Be'er Sheva by the same scoreline to book a last-four spot.

Sunday and Mbeleck were handed starting roles for Kiryat Gat and they played crucial roles in their side's progression to the final.

Eden Avital got the visitors off to a bright start in the encounter when she opened the scoring after just seven minutes of action.

The Israel international went on to double the lead for Maccabi Kiryat Gat, with her second of the match in the 28th minute before Sunday made it three for the visitors six minutes later.

After the break, any hope of a possible comeback was dashed when Shahar Nakav netted the fourth eight minutes into the second half before Mbeleck netted in the 58th minute to seal the triumph.

The result at Ramle Stadium confirmed Maccabi's passage to the final of the competition, where they will battle with Maccabi Emek Hefer.

Besides notching her 10th goal, Sunday lasted 55 minutes and Ghana's Sumaila Sherifatu also saw 61 minutes, while Mbeleck got her 13th goal, featuring from the start to the finish for Maccabi.

On the other hand, Bnot Netanya featured Mabel Effiom in action for 61 minutes, while Yetunde Adeboyejo lasted the entire duration.

Having clinched a final spot, Maccabi will continue their campaign with a trip to Maccabi Kishronot Hadera on April 28, while Bnot Netanya will be away to Hapoel Petach Tikva the next day.

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu

Birama Ndoye scores as Sion defeat Servette

The Senegalese centre-back was among the goalscorers as Marco Walker’s men secured an away win against the Maroons

Birama Ndoye was on target as Sion recorded a 5-3 away win over Servette in Thursday’s Swiss Super League outing.

Having played a 2-2 home draw against FC Zurich, Marco Walker’s side followed the result up with a commendable away result to boost their survival battle.

Three minutes into the game, the visitors took the lead courtesy of Leo Lacroix – however, the effort was ruled out for offside after VAR replays.

However, they took the lead four minutes later through Gaetan Karlen who profited from an assist from Guillaume Hoarau.

With Hoarau controlling a long cross from Dimitri Cavare, he teed up the Swiss forward who had the simple task of tapping past goalkeeper Jeremy Frick.

Eight minutes before the half time break, Alex Schalk put the hosts back on level terms with French striker of Ghanaian descent Grejohn Kyei providing the assist.

In the 56th minute, Karlen restored Sion’s lead after completing his brace after capitalising on a defensive mishap from the Servette defenders.

Two minutes later, Ndoye extended the lead for Walker’s team – heading home a corner kick taken by Matteo Tosetti. That was the Senegalese defender’s second league goal of the 2020-21 campaign.

Schalk reduced the deficit for the home side in the 63rd minute after tapping Vincent Sasso’s short pass into Kevin Fickentscher’s goal post.

In the goal-laden affair, the Stade Tourbillon giants got their fourth goal of the evening through Hoarau, albeit, Servette got their third goal through French winger of Malian background Boubacar Fofana.

Eight minutes before the end of the fixture, Matteo Tosetti sealed the win for the visitors by scoring the fifth after rifling Lubomir Tupta’s assist past the stranded goalie.

While Ndoye was in action from start to finish alongside Christian Zock of Cameroon, Algeria's Ayoub Abdellaoui, Cote d'Ivoire's Serey Die, Guinea Bissau's Mauro Rodrigues and Congolese goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu were not listed for the eight-goal thriller.

For the hosts, Gael Ondoua (Cameroon) was handed a place in the starting XI but he was subbed off for Fofana in the 62nd minute, whereas, Senegal's Arial Mendy, Congo's Joel Kiassumbua and Cameroon's Gael Ondoua did not make the matchday squad.

Even with their away result, Sion remain at the base of the Super League log with 30 points from 30 games.

Original author: Shina Oludare

Kanu selects Saka and Smith Rowe as his best players at Arsenal this season

The 44-year-old has been impressed by the youth players in Mikel Arteta's team and he wants the club do everything to keep them

Former Nigeria and Arsenal star Nwankwo Kanu has picked Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka as the best players in Mikel Arteta’s squad so far this season.

Although the Gunners are struggling in the Premier League with 46 points after 32 matches which places them ninth on the table, the former Arsenal Academy players have proven to be a crucial part of the first-team with their performances and contributions in front of goal.

So far this season, Smith Rowe has a tally of seven assists and two goals for Arsenal while Saka has five goals to his name with seven assists in all competitions as well.

Kanu, who was part of the Invincibles team that won the Premier League in 2004, noted how the duo’s versatility has helped Arteta’s team and he urged his former club to do everything to keep the promising talents at the Emirates Stadium.

“There are two names which spring to mind as far as Arsenal’s player of the season goes; Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka,” Kanu told Ladbrokes. “They offer the team so much through their versatility. Saka can play in so many positions, and when he’s not playing, you can see the side struggles without him.

“Smith Rowe is a very good player. He can open up games and Arsenal definitely need him to play more in the next few years. These two, for me, have been the best players for Arsenal this season – they can’t afford for either of those two players to get injured.

“The way Bukayo Saka is playing, he’s so good that there’s always a worry a big club might come in for him in the summer.

“Arsenal have to do everything within their power to keep him. He’s very young, and he’s got so many years ahead of him. Arsenal have to make sure they keep all of these young players like Saka, Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah.”

With star forwards Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang ruled out of Friday’s Premier League match against Everton, Arteta will be counting on Saka, Smith Rowe and Nketiah – who rescued a point against Fulham on Sunday – to fire the hosts to victory at the Emirates Stadium.

Original author: Taiye Taiwo

LIVE: Barcelona vs Getafe

That's all for today, goodbye!

That win takes Barcelona back into third place above Sevilla, and five points behind the leaders Atletico, who won earlier today. Next up for them is a trip to Villarreal at the weekend. Getafe stay in 15th, still four points above the relegation zone. They're now winless in seven and Bordalas will be hoping to turn that around against Huesca next time out.

Barcelona cruise past Getafe with a 5-2 win. The hosts were 3-1 up at half-time, with Messi scoring twice on either side of a horrible mix-up where Chakla put his backpass into his own net and Lenglet scored an own goal at the other end as well. Unal pulled one back from the spot after VAR awarded a penalty, but Barca wrapped it up late on through Araujo's header and Griezmann slotted in his spot-kick with the last kick of the game.

90' + 4' FULL-TIME: BARCELONA 5-2 GETAFE.

90' + 2' PENALTY TO BARCA! Messi tries to play it through to Griezmann, but it takes a deflection off Dakonam which sends it looping up. Griezmann stretches for it at the same time as Chakla, but the defender can't reach it and catches the forward with his studs.

90' + 1' CHANCE! Messi is looking for his hat-trick goal as De Jong plays him in on the right of the box with a great throughball. He takes the shot early, before Chakla can get back with him, but fires it high over the bar.

89' Barcelona are keeping possession well again now as they try to keep Getafe on the back foot for the last minutes of the game. Trincao cuts inside from the right instead of driving down the wing and ends up being dragged down by Kubo.

86' Messi steps up to take the free-kick that he won and he floats another good cross into the middle of the box. It's over De Jong's head at the near post, and Dakonam gets there just ahead of Araujo to put it out for a corner.

84' Messi is still causing Getafe all sorts of problems as he drifts out to the left to get on the ball. He dribbles past Suarez before being pulled down by Arambarri and he wins a free-kick in a good position.

82' Iglesias cuts inside before drilling a dangerous cross into the six-yard box which catches out the Barcelona defenders. Kubo is running onto it at the far post, but it's just out of his reach on the stretch and he can't tap it towards goal.

80' Alba is the furthest forward for Barcelona despite Getafe being on the attack and when Araujo wins it back, he instantly goes long, looking for the full-back. He just set off too early though and the offside flag goes up against him.

78' Getafe look a lot more confident going forward now and Suarez is starting to find more space down the right. He floats a dangerous cross into Iglesias at the far post, but he gets caught under the header and it loops up kindly for Ter Stegen.

73' Barcelona are moving the ball upfield quicker now as they look to try and restore their two-goal advantage. Messi has drifted out to the right to try and get it forward, but he's blocked off by Koffi.

71' Messi spins away from Rodriguez in midfield and makes a driving run through the middle without being closed down. He squares it to Trincao on the right instead of going for goal, but he can't pick out Mingueza with his cross and Chakla sweeps it clear.

68' PENALTY TO GETAFE! Araujo stepped on Unal's foot as they both went to get on the end of Kubo's cross and the referee initially waved play on before being asked to go and look at the monitor. After a quick watch of the replay, he points to the spot.

66' Barcelona are still getting a lot of joy down the right with De Jong getting the better of Arambarri before he fizzes a low throughball forward for Trincao to chase. There's just too much on it though and Soria comes out to collect it.

62' Rodriguez has stayed down holding the back of his head after an accidental clash with Abdulai when they both tried to clear Mingueza's pass. The referee stops play, but the midfielder is back to his feet without needing treatment.

60' Roberto is given so much space to run into down the right and Pedri is breaking quickly through the middle to provide him with support. Roberto floats a cross into the near post, but it's just behind his team-mate and held onto by Soria.

58' Griezmann plays in Messi on the edge of the box and he manages to skip past Dakonam by chipping the ball over the defender's head. He brings it down and tries to pick out Pedri to his left, but it's cut out by Suarez.

56' It's better from Getafe now and Kubo and Koffi are linking up well down the left, with Mingueza struggling to keep up. The substitute makes the overlapping run but then puts a poor cross into the box which is cleared at the near post by Moriba.

54' Busquets is still being given a lot of time on the ball when he gets it in midfield and he tries to pick out Griezmann's run as he pulls off the back of Chakla. There's too much on it though and there's nothing the Frenchman can do to keep it in play.

52' The visitors are starting to close Barca down higher upfield now and forcing them to move the ball quicker than before. Kubo is chasing down Araujo's pass to Ter Stegen and the keeper just manages to clear his lines in time.

50' Getafe win their first corner of the game and it's played short by Iglesias to Suarez. The right-back whips a dangerous cross into the middle, but Chakla can only flick his header wide of the far post.

48' Barcelona have picked up where they left off in the first half - keeping possession well and forcing Getafe deep into their own half. It's patient play by the hosts as they try to open up some space.

46' Barcelona get us back under way for the second half! 

Koeman will be pleased with his side's performance so far and will be looking for more of the same after the break as they've looked dangerous every time they've got into the final third. As for Getafe, they've looked shaky at the back and Bordalas will want to see a big improvement when they come out for the second half.

Barcelona are in control with a 3-1 half-time lead over Getafe. Messi dictated the play, smacking an early chance off the bar before putting his side ahead. The visitors levelled when Cucurella's cross went in off Lenglet, before a horrible mix-up between Soria and Chakla saw the defender's backpass cross the line. Messi then got his second from a tight angle after his initial shot was tipped onto the post.

45' + 2' HALF-TIME: BARCELONA 3-1 GETAFE.

45' Messi wins a free-kick on the right for Barcelona and steps up to take it himself. He chooses to float it into the far post instead of going for goal, but it's too high for everyone in there and Iglesias sees it harmlessly out of play.

43' Chakla is there to intercept Roberto's cross from the right, but he takes too long to clear his lines and he's closed down by Griezmann. The defender ends up hitting the ball against him and gets lucky as it bounces kindly into Soria's gloves.

41' Pedri switches play out to Alba on the left and he drives forward to create space for a cross. He has Griezmann to pick out in the middle, but can't get enough on it and Dakonam is there to clear up for Getafe.

39' Still, Barcelona are happy to keep possession in their own half as they try to draw Getafe out of their shape. Pique lays it off to Messi and he tries to turn away from Rodriguez, only to be fouled by the midfielder.

37' Getafe just can't get on the ball at the moment and are dropping deeper into their own half and inviting the pressure from Barca. De Jong fires it forward for Griezmann to chase, but Soria is quickly off his line to collect it.

35' Cucurella is pushing forward down the left for Getafe and he's the furthest forward, trying to make something happen. None of his team-mates are getting up in support though and he's eventually crowded off the ball by the Barcelona defenders.

32' Messi has ended his worst run without scoring against Getafe at home in LaLiga (three games in a row). The Barca captain has now scored more goals in the competition this term (24) than all of Getafe's players combined (23).

30' Barcelona are on the attack again, with Messi spinning away from Rodriguez before laying it off for Griezmann. The Frenchman gives chase through the middle, but Chakla recovers really well to nudge him off the ball.

26' Getafe are happy to just sit back in their own half now and let Barcelona keep possession on the halfway line. The hosts are patiently trying to work it forward, but there's no way through for them at the moment.

24' None of the Getafe players spot Pedri in acres of space in the middle and he lifts a lovely ball over the top to De Jong, who's running onto it at the far post. He volleys a cross into a dangerous area, but none of his team-mates followed in, and the chance is wasted.

22' Getafe aren't being given a lot of space down the left, but Kubo does well to squeeze a pass into Cucurella, who then pulls it back from the byline. It's cleared by Pique ahead of Angel and Pedri is alert enough to touch it away from Alena, who is following in.

20' Barcelona are keeping the pressure on Getafe here as Roberto does well to keep the ball in play at the byline. Dakonam heads his cross away, but only as far as Messi on the edge of the box. He scuffs at the shot though and it's a comfortable save for Soria down the middle.

18' Alba just drifts off the back of Suarez down the left and De Jong picks him out by fizzing the ball into him. The left-back tries to pull it back for Griezmann in the middle first time, but Dakonam is there to smother the cross.

16' CHANCE! Busquets picks out another brilliant throughball, this time into Griezmann, but he can't work any space for a shot. He tees up Messi to his left and he takes the shot first time, but he ends up firing it high over the bar.

14' Mingueza is back on the pitch now and the Barcelona defenders are knocking it around between themselves patiently as they try to find a way through Getafe, who have dropped deep.

10' Mingueza has gone down holding his knee after Kubo accidentally caught him with his studs as they both tried to reach Alena's cross. He's limping as he makes his way off the field and they're waiting to make a decision on if he can carry on.

4' OFF THE BAR! Griezmann gets the better of Suarez and turns him to square it to Messi on the edge of the box. He isn't closed down and he fires a powerful shot on goal which beats Soria. It bounces off the crossbar, onto the goal line and back out, much to the keeper's relief.

2' Busquets spins away from Maksimovic before trying to get Griezmann in behind with an early throughball down the left. He gets ahead of Iglesias, but Soria is alert and quickly out of his box to sweep it clear.

1' Angel gets the game underway for Getafe!

The teams are out on the pitch now, with kick-off just moments away.

Barcelona lost 1-0 against Getafe in the reverse fixture this season - they've never lost both league games against them in a single campaign.

Jose Bordalas makes six changes to his team after their draw with Real Madrid last time out, with only Soria, Dakonam, Maksimovic, Alena and Cucurella retaining their places. Top scorer Mata starts on the bench.

Just the one change for Ronald Koeman's side from the Copa del Rey final on Saturday as Roberto is brought into the starting line-up for Dest, who drops to the bench.

GETAFE SUBS: Josete Miranda, Dario Poveda, Francisco Portillo, Xabier Etxeita, Koffi, Enes Unal, Mauro Arambarri, Mamor Niang, Jaime Mata, Ruben Yanez, Sabit Abdulai, David Timor.

GETAFE STARTING XI (4-4-2): David Soria; Juan Iglesias, Djene Dakonam, Sofian Chakla, Chema Rodriguez; Damian Suarez, Nemanja Maksimovic, Carles Alena, Marc Cucurella; Takefusa Kubo, Angel Rodriguez.

BARCELONA SUBS: Samuel Umtiti, Ronald Araujo, Ilaix Moriba, Matheus Fernandes, Miralem Pjanic, Trincao, Inaki Pena, Riqui Puig, Arnau Tenas, Konrad De la Fuente, Sergino Dest, Junior Firpo.

BARCELONA STARTING XI (4-3-3): Marc-Andre ter Stegen; Oscar Mingueza, Gerard Pique, Clement Lenglet, Jordi Alba; Sergi Roberto, Sergio Busquets, Frenkie de Jong; Lionel Messi, Antoine Griezmann, Pedri.

Barcelona have been constantly in the news this week after the announcement of the European Super League, and have expressed their continued support for it earlier today. In their first game since that, they have a chance to leapfrog Sevilla back into third with a win, coming into today on the back of winning the Copa del Rey and have lost just one of their last 11 in all competitions, though that came in their last league game. They face a struggling Getafe, who have won just one of their previous 13 matches and are winless in their last six (D4 L2), failing to score in four in that run.

Hello and welcome to live coverage of the LaLiga meeting between Barcelona and Getafe at Camp Nou!

MozzartBet: Arsenal v Everton

We preview the stats ahead of Arsenal v Everton, Liverpool v Newcastle, Leeds v Manchester United, Leicester v Palace, Villarreal v Barcelona

Gomes to become second South African referee to officiate at Olympic Games

The nation's football governing body released the following statement on Thursday evening

Prominent South African football referee Victor Gomes continue to set himself lofty standards after he was appointed among officials to officiate at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics.

Gomes becomes the only second South African referee to be appointed for the Olympic Games after Jerome Damon’s appearance at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Gomes said he was excited about the appointment and thanked Safa and his colleagues for pushing him to be the best, not only on the African continent but the world.

“Being invited to officiate at the Tokyo Olympic Games is a huge honour for me. I am grateful to Safa, Caf and Fifa for this recognition. This is the pinnacle point in my career and another step closer to my personal targets,’’ said the tough-talking referee.

‘’I will need to put on some extra hard work as I will not only be representing myself, my family but the whole of Mzansi and the African continent,’’ added Gomes.

Safa’s chair of the referees' committee, Ms Natasha Tsichlas said Gomes’ appointment once again showed South Africa’s officials are among the best on the continent.

‘’The high number of our officials appointed to officiate in global showpieces is an indication of the high standards of our football officials. We also have a number of upcoming referees who will look at the likes of Gomes for inspiration and guidance.

I would like to thank Safa President Dr Danny Jordaan’s leadership for continuing to produce world-class administrators and officials,’’ said Tsichlas.

The Olympic Games that were initially scheduled for 2020 but postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic will now be held from 23 July – 8 August 2021.

The SA U-23 Olympic Team will also represent the country at the world’s biggest sporting showpiece.

'No intention of selling' - Kroenke committed to Arsenal and excited by summer transfer plans

Josh Kroenke, son of Arsenal owner Stan, took part of a fiery meeting with Gunners fans answering questions about the failed Super League project

Josh Kroenke told Arsenal supporters that Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) have no intention of selling the club during a fiery fans forum on Thursday.

Kroenke, who sits on the board at Arsenal and is son of 73-year-old owner Stan, joined chief executive Vinai Venkatesham at the fans forum to answer questions on the failed European Super League proposals.

The American came under fierce criticism from supporters during the 30-minute conference call, with some saying they were embarrassed by the club's actions and others labelleling the decision to join the Super League as a disgrace. 

What has been said?

But when asked if KSE still considered themselves fit and proper owners of Arsenal, Kronke said: "I believe we are fit to carry on in our position as custodians of Arsenal.

"We were put in a very difficult position by forces outside of the club. We have the same plans for summer that we had several weeks ago and I’m still excited about those.

"So I might be met with mistrust, I might be met with skepticism, but over time I hope to establish some sort of relationship with our supporter groups and show them that we are capable of taking our club forward."

When pressed on when KSE might sell the club and what their exit strategy was, Kroenke added: "I am not willing to answer that question because we have no intention of selling.”

If Josh Kroenke was in any doubt over the level of ill-feeling towards KSE following the past few days, he won’t be anymore.

Arsenal fans made their feelings perfectly clear over how they felt about the club’s ownership and the decisions that have been made.

"From a trust perspective, all of our trust was shredded this week," accepted Kroenke. "I understand that, which is why I am here today to try and rebuild some sort of relationship with the supporters.

"You have my word. You are going to be seeing more of me. I know the trust has been shredded, but you are going to be seeing me try and rebuild that both now and in the future."

What else did Kroenke say?

Kroenke apologised for signing up to the Super League and explained why the club took the decision to sign up.

He said: "As this project took shape in a very fast manner, we asked ourselves two key questions. The first question was: what is worse, a Super League or a Super League without Arsenal? That was a very tough one for us to weigh. We decided a Super League without Arsenal was the worst of both those answers.

"The second question we asked ourselves was: what do the fans want? We tried to answer that question in as many ways as possible. We were obviously bound by certain confidentiality aspects of the decision we were thinking about making, and it was a much more complicated answer than we had time to contemplate.

"I think the global fan wants to see Arsenal versus Barcelona as much as possible. I think the European fan wants to see more big matches between top clubs, to be quite frank because their domestic league is so predictable.

"I think from an English fan’s perspective, and this is what was so educating for me, they want to see more big matches. But as one Chelsea supporter wrote on a sign that I saw online the other day, you still want your cold nights in Stoke.

"I think to me that sent a strong message of the English Premier League, football in the UK as a whole and the fan sentiment across England. We got it wrong, and that is why we are here today.

And the Super League costs?

Kroenke confirmed that KSE would cover all the costs incurred by the ill-fated agreement to join the league and then by withdrawing.

"Absolutely," he replied, when asked the direct question.

There have been reports that the bill for clubs involved could be as much as £8 million, but Arsenal chief executive Venkatesham insisted that wasn't the case.

"That number of £8m is absolutely miles out," he said. "It is nowhere near that number."

Original author: Charles Watts

'We train together and support each other' – Kepa close with Mendy despite Chelsea rivalry

The Manchester City midfielder has criticised UEFA's new format for Europe's premier competition, which is set to come into effect in 2024

Ilkay Gundogan has expressed his belief that the new Champions League format is "just the lesser of the two evils in comparison to the Super League", while asking the question: "is no one thinking about us players?".

This week's football headlines have been dominated by the proposed formation of a new Super League competition containing 12 of the richest clubs in European football, which has been universally condemned by fans and experts alike.

UEFA snuck in their announcement of a fresh Champions League structure amid the chaos, which Gundogan believes has the potential to be almost as detrimental to players as the controversial breakaway plans.

What's been said?

The Manchester City midfielder wrote on Twitter: "With all the Super League stuff going on... can we please also speak about the new Champions League format?

"More and more and more games, is no one thinking about us players?

"The new UCL format is just the lesser of the two evils in comparison to the Super League..."

Gundogan added: "The UCL format right now works great and that is why it's the most popular club competition in the world - for us players and for the fans."

What changes have been made to the Champions League?

UEFA announced on Monday that Europe's Premier League competition will be expanding from 32 teams to 36, with the new format coming into effect in 2024.

The group stage will be replaced by a single league including all participating clubs, with the top eight automatically qualifying for the knockout stages.

The teams that finish between ninth and 24th will contest two-legged play-offs for the remaining last 16 spots, with the competition following the current design for the latter stages.

France have also been handed an extra qualifying spot, meaning the top five teams in Ligue 1 will now be granted entry to Champions League on an annual basis.

What is the state of the Super League?

Twelve teams were originally signed up to the Super League, including Manchester City, who were joined in representing the Premier League alongside Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham.

However, all six clubs have withdrawn following the fierce backlash in the media, along with Inter and Atletico Madrid, leaving only Barcelona, Real Madrid, Juventus and AC Milan still left involved in the project.

Further reading

Jozy Altidore training alone at Toronto FC following fall out with Chris Armas

The striker has been a regular scorer for the Matugga club while the youngster received the accolade for his Afcon U20 achievements

Bright Stars head coach Baker Mbowa has lauded Samuel Ssekamatte for the consistency he has maintained especially in the Ugandan Premier League.

Ssekamatte last scored when Bright Stars defeated Express FC and it is the form that he has kept over the season so far that has impressed Mbowa. He is the top scorer of the club with 11 goals with nine of those coming from the league matches while two have been scored in the Uganda Cup engagements.

“By the way, things are going, he must have listened to what I shared with him and kept on practicing and here we are, scoring has become part of him,” Mbowa said as quoted by Football256.

“Yes, other strikers from other clubs are scoring goals, but the level of consistency Ssekamatte is showing is exceptional.”

“If he can continue like this, I definitely expect him to challenge for the leading goal-scorers crown.”

The tactician shared the secret he gave to his club’s top scorer in order to keep on finding the back of the net.

“During my playing time, I was a striker and I have shared with Ssekamatte the secret of scoring goals,” Mbowa continued.

“And I told him that when you listen to what I am telling you and you put it into action, definitely you are going to score goals here in Uganda and everyone will be proud of you.”

Mbowa was also elated by the kind of play his side – who are seventh and with just a loss in the last five games - has been showing.

“If you try to see the way we play, we do not give up easily and even in the games that we have lost we have been fighting until we cannot do much so that is the drive we have got as a team,” Mbowa concluded.

“And I expect us to keep that mentality and character and also play real football until the end of the season and see where we shall have finished.”

Meanwhile, Police FC striker Derrick Kakooza has been feted by the Uganda Sports Press Association for his performances in the Africa Cup of Nations U20 tournament in Mauritania.

He scored five goals in six games and emerged as the Afcon’s top scorer. Kakooza’s notable contribution was a hat-trick against Tunisia when Uganda defeated the North African rivals 4-1.

Original author: Kiplagat Sang

Chelsea's FA Cup Semi-Final Will Be Frank Lampard's Biggest Test Yet

With so many frontmen in top form, the excitement within the nation’s fanbase has arguably never been higher

Gernot Rohr may not admit it, but he probably rues the fact the Africa Cup of Nations isn’t being held in the off-season in June, owing to the options he’d have at centre-forward.

Options, in theory, translates to firepower, and no manager in modern football runs from that. While observers will point to the upshot of the paradox of choice potentially affecting the eventual decision-making process, the German has probably never had it this good in his career.

The players available for the central striking role are, but not limited to, Victor Osimhen, Paul Onuachu, Simy, Umar Sadiq and, to a lesser extent, Kelechi Iheanacho because he plays deeper and isn’t an out-and-out goalscorer.

The Napoli frontman, underwhelming showing vs Inter Milan on Sunday aside, has shown signs of a return to form after a rough ride from November into the New Year where injuries and illness understandably impacted his form and fitness. However, the hiatus in March incited the reaction Gennaro Gattuso probably wanted and the forward has gone on to score or assist four times in his last five appearances for club and country.

Despite the form of other countrymen ostensibly vying for a place as the Super Eagles’ number nine, Osimhen likely leads the line when Afcon comes around anyway. Therefore, the 22-year-old’s recent uptick is music to everyone’s ears.

Still, besides Nigeria’s most expensive player of all time, the other choices pose thought-provoking questions for Rohr.

Onuachu’s return for Genk this term may be the best of his career, but the archetypal target man is not unfamiliar with finding the back of the net regularly, evidenced by his exploits in Denmark. He netted 19, 10 and 17 goals in his last three campaigns with Midtjylland and, by the time he departed in 2019, had unquestionably outgrown the Danish Superliga.

A challenging maiden year in Belgium where defending champions Genk disappointingly ended seventh didn’t reflect well on the towering striker who only found the back of the net nine times in 17 starts. While this wasn’t a poor return, it was the first time he hadn’t hit double figures in league football since 2016.

Given the rather underwhelming nature of his opening year, this term’s upsurge in front of goal has been striking. 29 league goals in 33 appearances (31 starts) is impressive by any standard and a breakdown of Onuachu’s return reflect his profile as a target man and penalty box frontman: every strike has been from within the 18-yard area with 10 headed goals emphasising his aerial strength.

When compared with Simy, a player with similar physical attributes, the subtle difference in both presents interesting findings. The Crotone frontman has scored 17 times in Serie A, but only one has been with his head, while the other 16 have been right-footed strikes.

The aforementioned not only hints at the striker’s one-footedness but relative weakness in the air.

He’s notably won only 39 percent of his aerial duels this term, a remarkable statistic for someone as tall, and Onuachu’s 55 percent success despite being about three centimetres taller (201cm-198cm) points to the Genk man’s superiority aerially.

Almeria forward Sadiq is a fascinating watch.

The gangly frontman appears awkward on the ball but that hasn’t stopped him from registering 16 goals in Spain’s second division. Evidently not as gigantic as the aforementioned pair (he’s only 192cm), still, one headed goal and a 37 percent success in aerial tussles put him closer in profile to Simy than Onuachu.

Be that as it may, the fact six of his goals have been with his left foot and the other nine being right-footed implies the former Roma striker is ambipedal to an extent.

Still, critics may frown at Sadiq’s tendency to miss really presentable chances as a flaw in his game — Onuachu and Simy have missed eight and seven respectively, whereas the Almeria forward has failed to tuck away a staggering 18 — but probably subsequently assuage by indicating how he keeps getting into those positions as an encouraging sign of his goalscoring instincts.

Iheanacho is unlike the aforementioned quartet in that he’s possibly the only one unsuited to playing as a lone striker but thrives when there’s another frontman occupying space and defenders in the final third.

It’s that change that has provoked his return to form at Leicester City and one that’s seen him score 10 times in seven appearances for the Foxes.

His preference for the inside-right channel allows him to chop inside to shoot and his two efforts from outside the box is level with the other frontmen combined—Osimhen and Sadiq have scored one each from outside the penalty area.

Despite the ex-Manchester City attacker’s return, his 24 percent conversion rate falls below Onuachu (31 percent), Simy (34 percent) and only just betters Sadiq’s 22 percent. Curiously, Osimhen’s 12 percent is a decrease to last year’s 15 percent and staggeringly adrift of the Genk and Crotone frontmen, although it ought to be pointed out the unsustainability of the latter pair’s runs.

While penalties make up eight of the Genk striker’s return and seven of the Crotone frontman’s tally, both attacker’s returns shouldn’t be diminished in any capacity, but extolled for having the most prolific campaigns in their careers.

Unquestionably, Nigeria could be the beneficiaries of the current promise and Rohr has to be excited. He’s got an all-rounder and one of England’s finest second strikers to call upon from the off and an old-school target man, traditional poacher and slight blend of all in Umar.

Asking all five to maintain their runs in front of goal may be a tough ask, yet, the German will welcome having those tough choices to make before Afcon and Nigerians will relish going up against the continent’s finest with so much firepower in their forward line. 

Original author: Seye Omidiora

Darwin Nunez discusses transfer to Liverpool

The Spanish giants have issued their response to the intense public criticism aimed at the breakaway proposal

Barcelona have insisted they would have been making a "historic error" by not signing up to the Super League, and that an "in-depth analysis" is now required to reshape the project.

Barca were one of the 12 founding clubs to initially sign up to the Super League, which has fallen apart gradually over the last few days amid fierce protests from fans and high profile figures across the game.

Eight teams have already officially withdrawn from the breakaway, but Barca have said that they remain committed to the project, albeit while admitting the public reaction must be taken into account with regards to how the initiative now moves forward.

What's been said?

The Spanish giants have released an official statement on their website, which reads: "FC Barcelona shares the view of most major European football clubs, and even more so given the current socio-economic climate, that there is a need for structural reforms to guarantee the financial sustainability and feasibility of world football by improving the product that is offered to fans around the world and by consolidating and even increasing the fan base on which this sport is sustained, which is its mainstay and greatest strength.

"In this context, the FC Barcelona Board of Directors accepted, as a matter of immediate urgency, the offer to form part, as the founding member, of the Super League, a competition designed to improve the quality and attractiveness of the product offered to the football fans and, at the same time, and as one of FC Barcelona's most inalienable principles, seek new formulas for solidarity with the football family as a whole.

"The decision was made in the conviction that it would have been a historical error to turn down the opportunity to be part of this project as one of its founding members. As one of the world's top sports club, our intention shall always be to be at the forefront, this being an indispensable part of the club's identity and its sporting, social and institutional spirit.

"In whatever case, FC Barcelona, as a club that always has been and always shall be owned by each and every one of its members, expressly reserved the right to submit such an important decision to the final approval of its competent social bodies following careful and very necessary study of the proposal."

The statement continues: "Given the public reaction that the aforementioned project has generated in many and various spheres, there is no question that FC Barcelona appreciates that a much more in-depth analysis is required into the reasons that have caused this reaction in order to reconsider, if necessary, and to the required extent, the proposal as originally formulated and resolve all those issues, always for the good of the general interest of the football world. Such in-depth analysis needs time and the necessary composure to avoid taking any rash action.

"We feel it is equally important to highlight the objective fact that a Court of Justice has already granted urgent legal protection as requested, thus confirming right of the initiative on the part of the founding clubs of the Super League project. In this regard, FC Barcelona considers that it would be improper for the necessary process of reflection and debate to be established under criteria of unjustified pressure and intimidation.

"Despite being perfectly aware of the importance and interest raised by this matter, as well as the need to always act with the utmost transparency, FC Barcelona shall act at all times with due prudence and asks for the utmost understanding, respect and most of all patience among FC Barcelona supporters and public opinion in general."

How has the Super League responded to the backlash?

The Super League formation was thrown into serious doubt after Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham all pulled out within the space of 24 hours, with Inter and Atletico Madrid following suit soon after.

Barca, Real Madrid, Milan and Juventus are still signed up, but founding chairman Andrea Agnelli concedes that there is now no feasible way for the initiative to go ahead.

Agnelli, who is also the current president of Juve, told Reuters on Wednesday: "I remain convinced of the beauty of that project. But admittedly ... I mean, I don’t think that that project is now still up and running.”

Further reading 

Premier League predictions: Gameweek 36

Bucs will be hoping that the former Platinum Stars player shrug off his injury and makes the matchday squad for the clash against the Beautiful Birds

Orlando Pirates could be forced to promote a youngster from the club's reserve team with a goalkeeper crisis looming at the Houghton-based club.

The Buccaneers' injury woes continued on Wednesday afternoon after Siyabonga Mpontshane picked an injury during the team's clash against Algerian giants ES Setif at Orlando Stadium.

The experienced shot-stopper had to be replaced by Wayne Sandilands just 24 minutes into the Caf Confederation Cup Group A game.

Sandilands is now Pirates' only fit keeper as Ghanaian shot-stopper Richard Ofori is still unavailable due to an injury that he picked up in the reverse fixture against Setif in Ghana.

Pirates head coach Josef Zinnbauer pointed that they could bring in a young keeper if Mpontshane doesn't recover in time ahead of their clash with Swallows FC on Saturday.

“The first plan was, or is with Mpontshi, I don’t know 100% now what’s happened but it doesn’t look good," Zinnabuer told the media. 

"But we have to see what’s happened with the young keeper, then we have to improve the young keeper.

"I don’t know, we have to wait on what’s happening with the injuries in the next [few] days." 

The German tactician could promote Elson Sithole, who has been captaining the club's reserve team in the DStv Diski Challenge this term.

Sithole has played an instrumental role in helping the Buccaneers win their first two matches in this season's PSL's reserve league campaign.

The promising shot-stopper kept a clean sheet as Bucs secured a 2-0 victory over their Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs at Dobsonville Stadium two weeks ago.

Before leading the Pirates reserve team, which is coached by Mandla Qhogi, to a 2-1 victory over Bloemfontein Celtic at Bidvest Stadium on Saturday.

It remains to be seen whether Sithole will be considered by Zinnbauer to deputise for Sandilands as the Buccaneers look to return to winning ways against Swallows after drawing with Setif.

Swallows will host Pirates at Dobsonville Stadium in the original Soweto Derby match with the two teams having drawn 1-1 in their first round clash at Orlando Stadium in January 2021.

 

 

 

 

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo

'We should be up for every game' - Hunt cautions Kaizer Chiefs players ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns clash

The 56-year-old tactician feels that Amakhosi, who have blown hot and cold this term, miss the support from their fans in the stadiums

Kaizer Chiefs coach Gavin Hunt says his charges should be up for every game as the Soweto giants prepare for their titanic clash with Mamelodi Sundowns on Sunday. 

This comes after the Glamour Boys succumbed to a 2-1 defeat to Cape Town City at FNB Stadium on Wednesday evening and they have won just one of their last 10 PSL matches. 

Hunt was asked if their recent wins in big matches against Orlando Pirates in the league and Wydad Athletic in the Caf Champions League Group C could inspire his side to a win over Sundowns. 

“Yes and no. I think we should be up for every game. You can’t pick and choose where you want to be up for," Hunt responded when speaking on Sowetan

"So that’s something that I still have to instil in our players‚ but that takes time.”

The defeat to City dented Amakhosi's hopes of finishing in the top eight as they are placed 11th on the league standings - eight points above the relegation zone. 

Hunt feels that the absence of the fans in the stadiums due to Covid-19 restrictions has affected the team's performance this season. 

“The bottom line‚ as you can see around the world‚ supporters are everything for football clubs. And it’s important that we got to understand them and we do better for the supporters," he continued. 

“I do think in a club like Kaizer Chiefs it certainly doesn’t help them not having supporters [on the stands] because that’s been the cornerstone of the football club for the last 50 years.

“So, there’s no doubt that it [their absence] has certainly taken a huge chunk out of us while the other clubs don’t get much support."

Chiefs are arguably the most supported football club in South Africa and they always enjoy a huge following wherever they play in the country. 

"They play week in and week out [without the fans]‚ but a club like Chiefs need supporters‚ there’s no doubt about it," Hunt added.

“I’m sure they won’t be happy by now that’s for sure‚ but they would have seen more at a live game.”

Chiefs will be looking to become the first team to defeat Sundowns in the PSL this season when the two Gauteng giants meet at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo

Ibrahimovic to sign new one-year AC Milan contract worth around €6m

The Sweden international has agreed to extend his current deal with the Rossoneri, with an announcement due later on Thursday

Zlatan Ibrahimovic will put pen to paper on a new one-year contract with AC Milan, Goal can confirm.

The contract, worth around €6 million (£5m/$7m) a year plus €1m in additional bonuses, is due to be announced by the Serie A club on Thursday evening.

Ibrahimovic has been one of Milan's top performers during the 2020-21 campaign and seemingly still has plenty to offer, despite the fact he will turn 40 later this year.

What are the details?

The Sweden international will extend his stay with Milan for at least another season, with Ibrahimovic having been with the Rossoneri since joining them in December 2019 on a free transfer.

Milan have already teased the announcement via their social channels, with a Twitter post showing their television studio accompanied by the text: "What'Z happening?" and an hour-glass emoji.

Indeed, Goal can confirm that Ibrahimovic has agreed to a new one-year contract, with his current deal having been due to expire at the end of the 2020-21 campaign, and an official announcement is due to follow later today.

How has Ibrahimovic performed since joining Milan?

Ibrahimovic initially only arrived a six-month contract when he signed for Milan in 2019 although his performances in that short period - that saw him score 10 goals in 18 league games - convinced the club to offer him an extension.

That was due to expire at the end of the current season although the 39-year-old has continued to impress for the Rossoneri, scoring 15 goals in just 17 Serie A games in what has been an injury-disrupted campaign.

Speaking back in March, Ibrahimovic explained how he hoped he could remain at San Siro, despite negotiations over an extension having dragged. He told Rai Play: "Let’s see [about a renewal].

"If [Milan technical director] Paolo [Maldini] wants, I am up for it. When I spend a day without them [my team-mates], it's like one without my children."

What next for Zlatan & Milan?

Ibrahimovic has missed Milan's last two matches, owing to suspension and injury, but could return for the Serie A meeting with Lazio on April 26.

Without their legendary forward, the Rossoneri suffered a surprise 2-1 defeat at home to Sassuolo last time out as they failed to take the chance to close the gap to league leaders Inter.

Indeed, Antonio Conte's side are 10 points clear at the summit with just six games remaining and are set to finally break Juventus's dominance of Serie A.

Ibrahimovic may not be able to help Milan win the title from here although he is set to appear on the international stage with Sweden at the European Championship in the summer, having recently come out of retirement.

Further reading

Original author: Stephen Darwin

U.S.' Dest: Milan move will make me complete

Everything you need to know about the Sky Original film about the Red Devils which is out this year

Manchester United are one of the most successful football clubs in England and the Old Trafford outfit's exploits have reverberated across the globe.

Ad Hoc Films and director Mat Hodgson have teamed up with one of United's most iconic players, Eric Cantona, to bring a new documentary to our screens looking at the legend of the Red Devils.

'The United Way' comes around the same time that Amazon Prime's Paul Pogba documentary is launched, so fans of the Manchester club - and football documentaries in general - are in for a double treat.

So, when will it be released, how can you watch it and what's it all about? Goal brings you all the details.

On this page

What is The United Way about? When is The United Way released? Who is in The United Way?  The United Way trailer How can I watch The United Way?

What is The United Way about?

The United Way tells the story of Manchester United, looking back at the club's origins and focusing on a number of decisive moments in the history of what has become an institution of English football.

From Sir Matt Busby, his famous Busby Babes and the tragedy of the Munich Air Disaster to the era of Sir Alex Ferguson and his all-conquering treble-winning team, the documentary examines what makes the Old Trafford outfit special.

Eric Cantona, a man fondly referred to as 'The King' by many Manchester United supporters, narrates the documentary, providing his own unique insights into a club he claims he was "born to play for".

"The United Way is at heart a story of the people," reads a press release. "It is set against a background of four dynamic decades of change on and off the pitch."

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When is The United Way released?

The United Way will be released and available to watch on DVD or digital download on Monday May 10, 2021.

It will be available to watch on TV and can be streamed live online from Monday May 24, 2021.

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Who is in The United Way?

As well as being narrated by Eric Cantona (who also co-wrote the documentary), The United Way stars an array of Manchester United legends.

Among them are David Beckham, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ryan Giggs, with input provided by the likes of Peter Schmeichel, Nicky Butt and Teddy Sheringham too.

There are also contributions from those who laid the groundwork before them, such as Bryan Robson, Brian Kidd, Ron Atkinson and the late Tommy Docherty.

A political perspective is provided by Lords Kinnock and Heseltine, while Peter Hook and Shaun Ryder - leading members of 'Madchester' bands Joy Division/New Order and Happy Mondays respectively - give their considered cultural commentary.

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The United Way trailer

A trailer for The United Way was released at the beginning of April 2021 and it can be watched below.

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How can I watch The United Way?

The United Way will be available to watch on Sky Documentaries, which is available on Sky channel 114 or on Virgin Media channel 227.

It will also be accessible to stream live online through Sky Go or Now TV, provided, of course, you have the right subscription package.

If you wish to watch the documentary on Sky Documentaries, you will have to wait until May 24.

However, should you wish to watch it before then, you can purchase on DVD or digital download from May 10. It can be pre-ordered now at a cost of £9.99 (or £12.99 for Blu-ray) from HMV or Amazon.

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Original author: Ryan Kelly

Former Juventus, Chelsea and Real Madrid boss Ancelotti thought Super League was 'a joke'

The Italian, who is currently in charge of Everton, has hit out at those who attempted to put a breakaway competition in place

Former Juventus, AC Milan, Chelsea and Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti admits that he thought talk of a breakaway Super League being formed was "a joke".

Twelve leading clubs from across Europe, including six from the Premier League, announced plans on Sunday to put a new European tournament in place that would allow them to compete among themselves.

Ancelotti's current employers at Everton were among those to speak out against the proposals and the "preposterous arrogance" of those involved, with much-maligned plans ripped up within 48 hours.

What has been said?

Ancelotti, who was surprised to see so many of his former clubs sign up, has told reporters of a project that involved plenty of American influence from owners at Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal: "My immediate reaction was they are joking, this is a joke!

"It's a joke because it's not going to happen. It's impossible.

"Sport culture in Europe is different to American sports. Not because we are right and they are wrong, but because the culture of the people is different. In America, in the USA, sport is different. Sport is entertainment.

"In Europe, we live with more passion. When we grow up, we want to beat our neighbours. We grew up differently. It is not sport [in the USA]. Football now is part business. But we need to take into consideration both.

"Football is a sport first. And then with a lot of investment, it also becomes a business. We need to take into consideration both. This is absolutely normal."

Ancelotti - who has also spent time with Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, who both reportedly passed on Super League involvement - added: "For every supporter of football it was a strange day, a surprise.

"We heard about the Super League in the past few months but I was sure it was not going to happen. What can I say? They were wrong.

"These 12 clubs were wrong. They did not take into consideration the opinions of the players, managers or supporters."

The bigger picture

With Super League plans being shelved, players, coaches and supporters around the world have been freed to focus on a thrilling climax to the 2020-21 campaign.

European places and silverware remain up for grabs, with Everton among those in the mix for a top-six finish in the Premier League.

Ancelotti is eager to get the Toffees over that line, making it easier for him to add in the summer transfer window, and will have his side back in action on Saturday when they travel to Arsenal.

Further reading

Original author: Chris Burton

Troost-Ekong lauds Cathcart and Gosling’s impact against Norwich City

The Nigerian centre-back heaped praise upon his Hornets teammates following their effect in Tuesday’s defeat of the Canaries

Watford centre-back William Troost-Ekong has praised the contributions of Craig Cathcart and Dan Gosling in Tuesday’s Championship triumph over Norwich City.

The players were two of the four changes made to the Hornets’ squad that took on Daniel Farke’s men at Carrow Road.

Starting his first game since February 27 at Bournemouth, Cathcart put up a solid shift at right-back while English midfielder Gosling got the game’s only goal in the 57th minute.

That result away from home was a massive boost to their Premier League ambition, and the Nigeria international was keen to praise the impact of his colleagues.

“He [Cathcart] was fantastic,” Troost-Ekong told Watford website.

“It's been a difficult few months for him, but he's the kind of person who trains the same way every day and is a vocal person in the group.

“He doesn't do a lot of interviews, but in the dressing room, he is really positive, helping everyone out.

“He's the kind of player who supports and never makes you feel a certain kind of way because he isn't playing. That's a credit to him.

“He showed his professionalism and experience, and he made it look like he had played the whole season at right-back. Kudos to Craig.”

“We had so many players coming back who added to the team and the good thing about our squad is that anyone who steps in makes the team better,” he continued.

“Dan [Gosling] made a difference today and everyone was really happy for him.

“He has waited for his chance and he is a player who has really helped us since arriving in January. He came in and did really well.”

Troost-Ekong, whose father-in-law is a Watford fan explained that he answered a lot of questions when he returned home on the back of his team’s derby defeat to Luton Town.

“The result hit me quite deep as it was my first derby and I had to discuss that when I got home,” he added.

Occupying the second position in the English Championship having accrued 85 points from 43 fixtures, they welcome Millwall to the Vicarage Road on Saturday.

Original author: Shina Oludare

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