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Partey return will be like a new signing for Arsenal - Arteta

The Ghana midfielder has not featured since the north London derby with Tottenham on account of injury

Mikel Arteta feels the return to fitness of Thomas Partey will be the equivalent of a new signing for Arsenal.

The Ghana midfielder was Arsenal’s big signing of the previous transfer window from Atletico Madrid, but he has made only a handful of appearances on account of injury.

Partey returned from a month on the sidelines to feature in the north London derby with Tottenham on December 6, but broke down again with a recurrence of the thigh problem.

Arsenal are nursing him back to fitness, but he is now in training and could feature against Newcastle in the FA Cup on January 9.

Arteta says Partey has to come through a couple of additional sessions before being given the green light, but the Spaniard feels it will be like having a new signing in the team.

“We are in January and I think he’s played two and a half games,” Arteta said of Partey during a press conference following the 4-0 win over West Brom on Saturday. “That’s all and he was our main signing. 

“We’ve been missing him. He brings something different to the team, he’s a player with an enormous talent. But as well someone that can transform the team the way we want. 

“It’s great if we can have him, keep him healthy and I think he will contribute in a really positive way.

“He’s done the most part training the last few days. He’s feeling good and we will assess him. 

“He needs another two or three good sessions to see if he’s 100 per cent ok to play. And if that’s the case, great news for us.”

The Gunners were impressive in beating West Brom 4-0, their third win on the spin, and Arteta feels Arsenal are starting to produce the type of football he wants to see.

“There were moments that I think we were really, really good,” Arteta said. “Both defensively and offensively. 

“Obviously in attacking phases we had moments where it’s exactly what I want, it’s exactly what we tried to train and teach the players to do. And in other moments we became a little bit sloppy. 

“In certain moments where we thought the game was won, which is something that we have to improve. But in general it’s close to what we want."

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Transfer news and rumours LIVE: Man Utd want Haaland instead of Sancho

Goal takes a look at the biggest transfer news and rumours from the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A and around the world
Original author: Goal
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Godoy Cruz says Uruguay's Garcia found dead

The Gabonese scored in each half as the Star of the South secured a comeback win against the Anatolian Eagle

Aaron Boupendza was the hero for Hatayspor after scoring a brace in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat of Konyaspor in a Super Lig clash.

The Gabon international came into the game having found the net four times in the Star of the South’s 6-0 defeat of Antalyaspor.

Against the Anatolian Eagles, however, he continued with his blistering form in front of goal to hand Omer Erdogan’s side a crucial home triumph.

In the keenly contested affair at the Hatay New Stadium, Antakya, it was the visitors who took a 33rd minute lead through Artem Kravets. Profiting from a shambolic defending from the hosts, the Ukrainian forward headed past goalkeeper Munir a pass from Nejc Skubic.

While it appeared like Konyaspor would be heading into the half-time break with a goal advantage, Boupendza equalised for the hosts in the 43rd minute. Left unmarked outside the goal area, the 24-year-old curled in a beauty past goalkeeper Ibrahim Sehic.

In the second-half, both teams came out stronger but their inability to convert begging chances ensured that scores remained 1-1.

Nonetheless, it was the African star who had the final say with his winner in the 68th minute courtesy of a half volley inside the opponents’ box.

Ahmet Calik levelled matters for Konyaspor with barely the last kick of the game, albeit, VAR replays ruled his goal out for being in an offside position to the anguish of the visiting side.

Two minutes to full time, Boupendza was substituted for Selim Ilgaz, while Nigeria’s Babajide David was in action from start to finish alongside Morocco international goalkeeper Munir and Senegal’s Mame Biram Diouf.

Malian midfielder Adama Traore was handed a starter’s role but he was taken off for Yusuf Abdioglu in the 90th minute. Elsewhere, Ghana’s duo of Joseph Akomadi and Isaac Sackey, Algeria’s Idir Ouali plus Senegal’s Dame Diop were not dressed for action.

For the visiting side, Uganda’s Farouk Miya did not make manager Ismail Kartal’s cut.

Thanks to this result, Hatayspor climbed to fifth in the Turkish Super Lig log with 27 points from 15 games, while occupy the 11th spot with 19 points from the same number of outings in the 2020-21 campaign.

Boupendza, who now boasts of nine goals so far will be aiming to add to his goal tally when Erdogan’s team travel to Genclerbirligi on Wednesday.

 

Original author: Shina Oludare
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'Gor Mahia have not sanctioned unscrupulous collection of monies' - Ochola

The French striker was unusually quiet after an electric few weeks in front of goal

Zinedine Zidane has no plans to rest Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema as he vowed slowly ease Eden Hazard back to full match fitness.

Benzema failed to register a single shot on goal in Madrid's 2-0 win over Celta Vigo in La Liga on Saturday and twice missed the target from good positions.

The 33-year-old has started 15 of Madrid's 17 La Liga matches this season and only goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Raphael Varane have played more minutes.

When asked in a post-match media conference if Benzema, who has scored eight goals in La Liga, needed a break, following a slightly jaded showing, Zidane disagreed.

"I don’t think he’s tired," Zidane said. "I think he did well and I took him off so that another player could play. We’re in a great spell. We’re doing the right things and we have to continue like this."

Hazard came off the bench for another run out late in the second half against Celta as he stepped up his return from an injury-hit start to the season.

"We are going to go little by little," added Zidane. "Little by little, you have to recover feelings.

"We have to take it slowly and not force anything. He has to get back to his best and take it slowly. That’s all it is."

Madrid's possession against Celta was 41 per cent which was the lowest recorded in a win under Zidane at home in all competitions.

The Madrid head coach was, however, satisfied with the manner in which his side were able to manage the game against Celta.

"We played a complete game from the beginning to the end," Zidane explained.

"We controlled the game well, we had a good balance, when it came to pressing up and getting the ball back, we did everything well.

"You have to control when the rival team has strong moments in the game, but the feelings are good, out of nine games we won six and three draws."

Goals from Lucas Vazquez and Marco Asensio gave Madrid the victory as the pair assisted each other in what was the fourth duo to combine between them in a single La Liga game this season.

Zidane added: "I am happy for Asensio. He has had a major injury and now he is much better and improving every time.

"Vazquez is very reliable, very involved and I am happy for what he is doing. We played a very serious game. I'm happy for everyone."

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McCarthy provides update on AmaZulu striker Ntuli's situation

Ntuli is set to add to an impressive list of attacking options the ambitious KwaZulu-Natal side have at their disposal this season
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Liverpool's Champions League home clash with RB Leipzig will return to Budapest

The Argentina superstar sat out the draw with Eibar on account of an ankle injury but will be back to face Huesca

Ronald Koeman says Lionel Messi is back to full fitness and “really excited” to be in the Barcelona squad for the game with Huesca.

Messi was absent for the 1-1 draw with Eibar in La Liga on Tuesday on account of an ankle injury.

Koeman described Messi as a “ bit banged up in his ankle ” ahead of the game with Eibar, but he trained freely on New Year’s Eve and was pictured with his team-mates on Saturday.

Following the training session, Koeman confirmed the club’s talisman at 100 per cent fitness and ready for the trip to Huesca on Sunday.

“Leo is fine,” Dutch coach Koeman said at a press conference . “He was training the 30th and 31st while the rest of the squad was resting. 

“No doubts for him, he has great fitness and is happy and really excited and that is important for us.”

Messi returns with Barca facing an uphill battle in the Liga title race.

The draw with Eibar meant Barcelona entered 2021 trailing leaders Atletico Madrid by 10 points.

Even with a peak-form Messi, Barca would find it tough to peg back the deficit and the focus may now turn to the Champions League and securing a top-four finish in La Liga.

A player not in the squad for the trip to Huesca is midfielder Philippe Coutinho who has been sidelined by a knee injury that has required surgery .

“Philippe will be about three months out injured,” Koeman said. “He has always been an important player, and will be important again, but now he has to recover. 

“I do not know when he will be 100% recovered. He is an important absence and we will have to see how we can solve Philippe’s absence.”

Also missing the trip to Huesca is defender Samuel Umtiti who has been sidelined by a stomach illness.

Umtiti joins Gerard Pique, Sergi Roberto and Ansu Fati on the list of absences for Barcelona.

The trip to Huesca is the first of a run of four successive away games - Athletic Club, Granada and Elche being the others - for Barca as they bid to battle their way back into the Liga title picture.

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‘Chilwell overpriced at £80m, Chelsea should get Dunk’ – Cascarino assesses Blues transfer options

The Nigerian midfielder and the Ghana international found the back of the net as the Eagles claimed all three points at Selhurst Park

Eberechi Eze and Jeffrey Schlupp scored to help Crystal Palace secure a 2-0 victory over Sheffield United in Saturday’s Premier League game.

Eze was handed his 14th league appearance since teaming up with the Eagles in the summer from Queens Park Rangers.

The Anglo-Nigerian utilized the opportunity to score his second Premier League goal of the season in fantastic fashion, similar to his debut goal for Palace in November, which won him the club's Goal of the Month award.

Schlupp also impressed in the encounter, scoring his second league goal in 15 appearances this season for the Selhurst Park outfit.

The Ghana international put Roy Hodgson’s men in front after four minutes into the encounter with a well-taken strike.

Schlupp’s strike is Palace’s fastest Premier League goal since November 2017 when James McArthur scored against Everton less than a minute into the game.

The forward then made ways for Eze in the 40th minute after suffering an injury, and the Super Eagles target continued from where Ghana forward had left off.

Moments before the end of the first-half, Eze sent Palace supporters into jubilation when he fired home a beauty.

The Nigerian midfielder dribbled past Sheffield United defenders before unleashing a fine strike into the back of the net.

After scoring his first goal for Palace from a free-kick, the 22-year-old, thus, become the first player to score two Premier League goals from outside the box since Ricky Newman in 1994.

Ivory Coast international Wilfried Zaha featured for the duration of the game while Black Stars forward Jordan Ayew was brought on in the 48th minute for Christian Benteke.  

The victory moved Palace to the 13th spot on the league table, above Arsenal, after gathering 22 points from 17 games.

Crystal Palace will hope to continue the impressive performance in their next outing against Wolverhampton Wanderers in a FA Cup tie on January 8.

 

 

Original author: Gbenga Adewoye
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Kai Havertz or Jadon Sancho: Assessing Who Should Be Considered the Better Player

The Red Devils manager has been holding regular talks with his No.9 and believes there is much more to come from him this season

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes the floodgates will open for Anthony Martial in front of goal after seeing the French forward get back in the groove against Aston Villa.

The Red Devils’ No.9 found the target on 23 occasions last season, with that impressive return representing a personal best.

More of the same was expected this term, but Martial has found the going tough at times and he has just five efforts to his name, with only two of those coming in the Premier League.

An opener against Villa, in what was to be a 2-1 win for United, was Martial’s first in the league at Old Trafford this season, but Solskjaer is convinced there will be many more to come.

The Red Devils boss told reporters after seeing his favoured frontman turn home a cross from Aaron Wan-Bissaka: “I love diving headers. I can keep on about that in crossing and finishing sessions. It was a good goal.

“Anthony is going to improve. He’s going to be better and better. He’s had a few chances this season. 

“He’s still creating chances, he’s just not had that little bit of luck, margins in front of goal. They’ll come. We saw a better version of Anthony, a more confident one.”

Solskjaer, as a former striker himself, is always on hand to offer words of advice to Martial.

He has been holding regular talks with the 25-year-old during the 2020-21 campaign and expects “class” to shine through when it comes to a proven performer.

The Norwegian added on his efforts to bring the best out of Martial: “We’ve had some chats, of course.

“We have spoken about last season and how important he was for us then and he is going to be important for us this season.

“A player’s form is temporary but when you have got class that is permanent. I think he has proven he is class.

“Now he is getting fitter and fitter and that means he is going to get better and better.”

United, who have moved level with Liverpool at the top of the table, are about to put their Premier League commitments on hold as attention turns to knockout football and meetings with Manchester City and Watford in Carabao Cup and FA Cup competition.

Original author: Chris Burton
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Hearts of Oak 6-1 Bechem United: Papic's ruthless Phobians humiliate Hunters

The GPL giants registered their highest win of the season with half a dozen goals on Saturday

Kosta Papic's Hearts of Oak began the New Year in style as they handed Ghana Premier League leaders Bechem United a 6-1 thrashing on Saturday.

A Victor Aidoo double and a goal each by Abdul Manaf Umar, Fredrick Ansah Botchway, Souleymane Lawali and Benjamin Kotey Afutu ensured full points for the Phobians in the matchday seven fixture at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Ghana U20 striker Prince Kwabena Adu recorded the visitors' consolation goal.

The result has taken Hearts to second on the league table, behind Bechem, who still sit top of the table with three points clear. 

The match was also the fourth for former Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, Enyimba and Young Africans coach Papic, who replaced Ernest Nii Odoom early into the season after a poor start to the latter's GPL campaign. The win is the second triumph for the Serbian on his return to the Phobian job for a second spell, having previously coached the club in 2008-09.

Papic made three changes to the team that started against King Faisal in their last game, bringing on William Dankyi, Daniel Barnieh Afriyie and Lawali in place of Michelle Sarpong, Patrick Razak and Afutu, who would later score as a substitute.

The highlight of the first half was Afriyie striking the woodwork in the 38th minute and Bechem's Emmanuel Asante receiving the marching orders for a second bookable offence a minute later.

After the break, the heavens opened with goals.

Umar broke the deadlock for Hearts in the 53rd minute before substitute Aidoo made it 2-0 with a cool finish in the 68th minute.

Five minutes later, Aidoo found the back of the net to put the Phobians in a comfortable lead. Then Botchway converted from the spot to make it 4-0.

Bechem would not go down without landing a blow of their own as Adu put the ball beyond Hearts goalkeeper Richmond Ayi to register a consolation.

Two minutes to full-time, Lawali scored for Hearts to add his name to the score sheet before Afutu wrapped things up with a strike on the stroke of full-time.

Hearts return to action against Elmina Sharks on matchday eight. 

Original author: Prince Narkortu Teye
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Farke confident Arsenal-linked Buendia will not leave Norwich in January

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has his sights set on a creative force but Norwich are confident Buendia will remain at the club

Daniel Farke is confident Emiliano Buendia will remain at Norwich City, amid reported interest from Arsenal.

The former Argentina Under-20 international netted an excellent goal as Norwich beat Barnsley 1-0 on Saturday to cement their position at the top of the Championship.

The goal added to Buendia’s stock, and ramped up talk of a move to Arsenal, who have been linked with a move for the young Argentine in recent weeks.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is reported to be a fan of the forward, with Goal able to confirm that Arsenal have scouted him extensively.

Canaries boss Farke was asked about the future of the 24-year-old Argentinian and said he is confident the club would retain his services in January.

“Emi is a key player for us, an important member of the group, and he is totally committed to us,” Farke said. “He is our player and will continue to be our player - he is on a long-term contract with the club so we keep him.

“Everyone knows his qualities - and I don’t expect interest just because he scored a wonder goal today. He has scored a number like this for us and people know what he can do. It was an excellent finish and that is what Emi can do. He instinctively knows when to make a run and then has the quality to finish like that."

A creative force is top of Arteta’s wish list for the January transfer window, with the likes of Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Brandt also linked .

Arteta hinted recently that he would need to get players off the wage bill before being able to boost his squad. 

The aim for Norwich is to bounce back into the Premier League, and Buendia is a key figure in their bid as they currently sit atop the league.

Norwich currently maintain a four-point lead over second-place Swansea and a six-point lead over third-place Brentford, who have a game in hand.

Arsenal, meanwhile, sit 14th in the Premier League ahead of Sunday's clash with West Brom.

After that, the Gunners will look ahead to an FA Cup third-round clash with Newcastle next Saturday.

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'The future is in good hands' - Klopp insists Liverpool's stars will stay regardless of Champions League qualification

The Scottish full-back admits Jurgen Klopp’s side should be clear of the chasing pack, but he is looking forward to a tough title defence
Original author: Chris Burton
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Fashanu: Genk’s Onuachu is currently Nigerian best striker

81' Mallo looks to clip a cross into the penalty area for Mina from the right after Olaza’s delivery from the left was met with a block - but Varane rises highest to nod away the danger.

79' Celta Vigo have only won one of their last 11 away LaLiga games (D6 L4) but this win was under Coudet – 2-0 vs Athletic Bilbao at San Mames on MD12.

76' Mendez looks to spring Mina through on-goal with a disguised pass, but Varane is there to shield the ball immediately, prompting Courtois to race off his line and pick it up.

71' Suarez takes a corner-kick but it fails to beat the first man as Benzema stoops low to clear the delivery out of the penalty area.

69' Celta Vigo will need to do something soon if they wish to set up a grandstand finish. The visitors have seen much more of the ball in the second half, but they’ve not yet been able to force Courtois into a save.

67' Celta have a free-kick deep in their own half after Real Madrid's overzealous press gets them in trouble with the referee. It should be no worry for the hosts though - as time continues to tick. 

63' BENZEMA ROLLS IT WIDE AGAIN! Kroos’ leading pass gets the striker into the penalty area, but his off-balance strike to the far post is sent just past the post - though it was close enough to force a dive from Blanco.

62' Suarez looks to split Nacho and Mendy with an incisive pass to play Mendez into the penalty area, but it’s hit with too much power as Courtois casually collects for a goal-kick.

60' Real Madrid have scored in each of their last 28 home LaLiga games against Celta de Vigo (74 goals in total, 2.6 per game), their current longest scoring run at home against a single team in the competition.

58' Zidane’s side are looking very professional as they close down space when out of possession, and keep it coolly when they do. The three points will send Real Madrid top by a point should they see out the match, though rivals Atletico have three matches in-hand.

55' Down by two goals and without their leading scorer, Celta Vigo have quite the mountain to climb in the last 30 minutes. Of the 22 goals scored by the visitors this season, Aspas has had a hand in 15 of them; nine goals and six assists.

48' Casemiro's intercepted cross in midfield sparks a Celta counter-attack, but the visitors are forced to slow the play down and hold onto possession after Mina is unable to work space to shoot from the edge of the 18-yard box.

46' Celta Vigo get the match restarted from the kick-off!

As Celta pour forward in the second half, their full-backs will need to be aware of Madrid’s counter-attacking threat. With Vinicius and Hazard both available from the bench, the visitors will need to do their best to keep the deficit at just one, while trying to find the equaliser. It doesn’t appear, however, that coach Eduardo Coudet will be able to do much from the substitute’s bench, as nine out of his side’s last 10 goals have come from those already on the pitch - with Beltran the only exception. If they are to get anything from the match, Aspas must be brought into play more often.

The first half comes to a close with Real Madrid leading 1-0, thanks to Vazquez’s headed finish after just five minutes. Asensio’s assist should have served as a warning, with the left-winger involved in everything positive for his side going forward in the first 45. His interchanging with Benzema has given Mallo and Araujo no end of troubles - including a shot from the striker from close-range which was sent just wide. Celta started the match well but Aspas’ opportunity prior to Asensio’s goal was the only chance they had to trouble Courtois, with Nacho saving the day with his goal-line clearance. The visitors will need to step it up should they wish to take anything from the match, as two shots in three-quarters of an hour will not suffice. 

45' HALF-TIME: REAL MADRID 1-0 CELTA VIGO. 

43' JUST WIDE! The free-kick isn’t cleared properly as the ball is sent to the edge of the 18-yard box and no further. Carvajal is well-placed and lines up a volley which he hits cleanly - but it misses the target narrowly!

40' The free-kick comes into the penalty area from the left, but Celta are unable to get near it as it’s knocked down by a defender before Modric whacks it away.

36' CLOSE FROM BENZEMA! The striker takes up a position just left of centre inside the Celta penalty area and receives a pass from Asensio in space. At the first time of asking, he whacks his left boot at the ball but it drags just wide of the far post!

36' Murillo gets into Madrid’s half and looks to play a clever chip into the penalty area for Aspas to latch onto, but the striker is far too eager in pursuit of the ball - bowling Nacho over from behind and giving away a free-kick.

34' Celta Vigo have found it very difficult to get back into the game after conceding the early goal. Madrid are patient in the knowledge that their opponents will be forced to come forward the longer it remains 1-0, opening up space at the back. Zidane’s side look confident, even if they’ve seen less of the ball in recent minutes.

31' Suarez finds Olaza in space down the left flank, but the full-back’s delivery is extremely poor as Nacho is able to cut it off before reaching Aspas.

28' Celta appeal to the referee for a penalty after Murillo’s volley following a corner seemed to catch the elbow of Mendy, but it seems completely innocuous and the match official waves claims away immediately.

26' Real Madrid are unbeaten in their last 12 LaLiga games against Celta de Vigo (W10 D2), since a 0-2 defeat at Balaídos in May 2014 - the last time they failed to score against them in the competition.

24' Benzema is brought down in midfield after Murillo goes low on the striker, taking his legs out from under him. It’s the fifth free-kick given away by Celta in just over 20 minutes.

22' As Real Madrid attack again, it seems as though the forward trio are being told to squeeze more and more in-field, allowing the full-backs to push higher up the pitch to provide the width. Asensio is now attacking the space in-between Mallo and Araujo - which will make it harder for the former to get up the pitch, as he is wont to do.

20' Asensio is once again at the heart of Madrid’s attacks as he delivers a low cross into the penalty area for Benzema, but Mallo is there to intercept.

18' Real Madrid players queue up and wait for their chance to strike as Vazquez brings the ball towards the 18-yard box, but it’s Modric who receives the square pass. He takes a moment to set himself, but the eventual effort is blocked at the last moment by Araujo. 

16' Benzema reaches the edge of the penalty area and lays the ball off for Mendy, but it’s an incredibly poor cross from the left-back, which balloons high and winds up going out for a Celta throw-in on the other side.

14' More frustration for Celta as Tapia goes to ground and catches Asensio, bringing him down well inside his own half and giving away a free-kick.

12' Looking for Vazquez again, Asensio clips a cross to the far post - but this time it’s put a bit too far as Blanco is allowed to collect for a goal-kick.

8' Celta were so close to opening the scoring themselves after a lovely ball played over the top for Aspas - but his inability to put more power on the shot really cost his side - as the visitors had camped inside Madrid’s half.

3' Real Madrid have been able to hold onto possession in the opening minutes, but an organised Celta midfield has offered little in the way of space, as Modric is forced to turn back and pass to Varane yet again.

1' Real Madrid get the match underway from the kick-off! 

Celta Vigo see no need to change their formation, sticking with the same shape and personnel that beat Huesca 2-1. Blanco is kept between the posts, behind a back four of Mallo, Araujo, Murillo and Olaza. Mendez and Nolito cover the flanks while Suarez and Tapia continue their partnership in midfield, the latter providing defensive cover. In attack, Mina plays beside the talisman - Aspas.

Real Madrid make two changes to the XI that drew with Elche last time out. Mendy replaces Marcelo at left-back, while Nacho is alongside him at centre-back, taking over for the unavailable Sergio Ramos.

CELTA VIGO SUBS: Lautaro De Leon, Joseph Aidoo, Sergio Carreira, Miguel Rodriguez, Ivan Villar, Miguel Baeza, Okay Yokuslu, Fran Beltran, Jose Manuel Fontan, Gabriel Veiga.

CELTA VIGO XI (4-4-2): Ruben Blanco; Hugo Mallo, Nestor Araujo, Jeison Murillo, Lucas Olaza; Brais Mendez, Denis Suarez, Renato Tapia, Nolito; Iago Aspas, Santi Mina.

REAL MADRID SUBS: Marcelo, Isco, Martin Odegaard, Federico Valverde, Eder Militao, Mariano, Luka Jovic, Eden Hazard, Andriy Lunin, Vinicius Junior, Diego Altube, Alvaro Odriozola.

REAL MADRID XI (4-3-3): Thibaut Courtois; Ferland Mendy, Nacho Fernandez, Raphael Varane, Dani Carvajal; Luka Modric, Casemiro, Toni Kroos; Marco Asensio, Karim Benzema, Lucas Vazquez.

With 15 minutes to go before kick-off, let’s look at how the two sides are lining up, starting with our hosts!

After gaining only three out of a possible 28 points from the end of September until mid-November, Celta Vigo have completely turned their form around and won five of their subsequent six matches in LaLiga. As is so often the case, Iago Aspas has been crucial to Celta’s success, scoring in four of his last five matches. The eighth-placed side can go as high as sixth with a win today, though it’d be their first victory over Madrid in the league since a 2-0 in 2014. 

Real Madrid’s draw with Elche three days ago arrested a run of five consecutive LaLiga victories; a far cry from their November form which saw them winless in the month. Los Blancos now sit second in the table, two points back of cross-town rivals Atletico Madrid having played two matches more.

Hello and welcome to our LIVE commentary of the LaLiga fixture between Real Madrid and Celta Vigo!

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Real Sociedad 2-0 Real Madrid: Player ratings as Los Blancos' limp title defence continues

82' CLOSE! Willian cuts open the West Brom defence with an incisive throughball for Lacazette. The Frenchman drills a low ball across the face of goal that evades Aubameyang on the stretch, while Furlong does well to divert it away from Tierney at the back post.

80' SAVE! Aubameyang leads a break for the Gunners down the left flank. He runs into the left inside channel and fires at goal on his left boot. Johnstone holds firm at his near post to beat the ball away.

78' CHANCE! Robinson turns past Maitland-Niles down the left flank and digs out a cross. Arsenal fail to clear the danger and Austin finds space to fire at goal on his left foot, but he lifts his strike over the bar.

75' OVER! Tierney surges down the left flank once again. He clips a cross into the middle for Willian to attack. The Brazilian connects on his left boot with a strike that appears to be heading wide. Aubameyang reacts to try to turn it towards goal, but sends his effort over the bar.

74' Tierney has acres of space to roam down the left flank. He sends an early cross into the middle that O'Shea has to divert away from the lurking presence of Lacazette.

69' Tierney is played into space once again down the left flank. However, on this occasion he lifts his cross to the back post whereas the movement from Lacazette and Saka was to the near stick.

67' Ceballos latches on to loose ball 30 yards from goal and drives a strike towards the target, but he pulls his effort wide of the left post.

63' Lacazette has scored his fourth away Premier League goal of 2020-21, his joint-highest tally on the road in the competition alongside 2018-19.

62' The Baggies have been outplayed for the second game on the bounce at home. They're heading towards another defeat unless they pull off a miracle in the final 28 minutes.

57' West Brom have come out for the second half with a stronger intent, but the Gunners look dangerous on the counter.

55' CHANCE! Lacazette latches on to a long ball over the top from Ceballos. Johnstone is caught in two minds and the Frenchman gets past him, but cannot force his strike from a tight angle past Ajayi covering on the line.

52' O'Shea sends a precise throughball for Gallagher's run in the left inside channel. He takes a poor first touch amid the presence of Holding and the ball travels out for a goal-kick.

51' Ceballos and Smith Rowe combine down the right flank to open up space for Bellerin, but the Spaniard lifts his cross straight into the hands of Johnstone.

49' Saka was a key man in the first half for the Gunners. Since the start of last season, Saka has been directly involved 22 goals in all competitions (7 goals, 15 assists) - the second most by a teenager playing for a Premier League side after Mason Greenwood (25).

47' DISALLOWED GOAL! O'Shea lifts a pass over the top for Pereira to chase in the left inside channel. He drills a low strike across goal that hits the right post and bounces out into the box. Robinson hammers home the rebound, but the home side's celebrations are short lived as the flag is up for offside against Pereira.

46' We're back underway at The Hawthorns.

West Brom have been overwhelmed for the second game in a row at home. Sam Allardyce's men have had no answers at the back and are fortunate to be only two goals behind. Matt Phillips spurned their best chance of the game firing straight at Bernd Leno. It's going to take something special for the Baggies to get a positive result out of this one.

Arsenal are in complete control of their Premier League clash against West Brom, taking a 2-0 lead into the break at The Hawthorns. Kieran Tierney put the visitors ahead with a super run and finish after cutting in from the left flank. The Gunners' second goal was even better as Alexandre Lacazette, Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka all combined to allow the latter to slot home from close range. 

45' + 2' HALF-TIME: WEST BROM 0-2 ARSENAL

45' + 2' Bellerin and Saka attempt to combine with a one-two on the edge of the West Brom box, but the offload from the former travels straight through to Johnstone.

45' There will be two minutes of added time.

44' SAVE! Lacazette eases his way past Ivanovic in the left inside channel and has space and time to fire at goal. He goes for a blast from a tight angle, but his effort is repelled by Johnstone before the Baggies clear the danger.

43' West Brom are trying to edge their way back into the contest, but are lacking the quality needed to cause problems in the final third.

40' WIDE! Ajayi rises to connect with Phillips' cross from the left flank, but he can only send his effort wide of the right post.

39' Holding tries to offload to Bellerin under pressure down the right flank, but he concedes a corner in the process. That was unnecessary from the Arsenal defender.

37' O'Shea attempts a long throw into the box, but the ball slips as he throws and loops into the air. He gets a second chance to knock a cross into the middle. Leno has to be careful in the conditions, although he is able to claim it at the second attempt.

36' Heavy snow is falling at The Hawthorns and is beginning to lie on the pitch. It could make life interesting for the keepers.

34' Ceballos sends a corner into the box from the left flank and Holding rises above Ajayi to head at goal. However, his effort is straight at Johnstone, who is able to smother the ball.

32' SAVE! Smith Rowe carves apart West Brom again. He works triangular offloads with Tierney and Lacazette before feeding the Frenchman down the left inside channel. The forward sees his strike deflected towards goal, but Johnstone backpedals to turn it over the bar.

30' Arsenal break with menace again as the Baggies are caught out at the back. Aubameyang shapes to shoot, but he sees his effort charged down.

26' Tierney is the first Scotsman to score an away Premier League goal for Arsenal.

25' Lacazette wins the ball from Gallagher and turns quickly to fire at goal. However, he slices his right-footed strike well wide of the target.

24' Johnstone has to be alert just inside his box to gather a long ball over the top ahead of Lacazette.

21' CHANCE! The Baggies break on the counter as Pereira runs at the Gunners defence. He flicks a ball over the top for Phillips on the charge. The midfielder connects with his strike on the half-volley, but he drills it straight Leno, who produces a solid stop.

19' The visitors continue to have success down the right flank. Bellerin has a charge at O'Shea and hammers a cross towards the near post from the byline, but Johnstone beats it away.

18' Saka causes further problems down the right flank. He cuts inside with menace and arcs a cross towards the back post that travels wide of the target.

16' CLOSE! Saka probes down the right flank before cutting inside on his left foot. He drives a low ball towards the bottom-left corner, but it just evades the inside of the post and Aubameyang on the stretch.

14' OVER! Ceballos lifts a cross into the box from the right wing, which is cleared by the fist of Johnstone. Tierney lines up an ambitious strike on the half-volley from distance, but he sends his attempt well over the bar.

13' Gallagher brings down Smith Rowe on the right flank, handing Arsenal a free-kick in a useful position.

12' Smith Rowe tries to get the better of Ivanovic down the right flank and he wins a corner off the legs of the defender.

10' SAVE! Lacazette offloads towards Saka, who runs at the West Brom defence and charges into the box. He takes on a strike with his right foot that travels straight at Johnstone, allowing the keeper to make a comfortable save.

7' Ceballos lines up an ambitious ball over the top for Aubameyang, but it travels well away from the Gabonese and out for a goal-kick.

5' Gallagher twists and turns down the right flank for the home side. He lifts a cross into the middle, but Pablo Mari rises to clear the danger.

3' SAVE! Aubameyang breaks down the left flank and whips a cross into the box. Bellerin latches on to the delivery in the right inside channel and fires low towards goal. Johnstone makes a good stop with his boot before Saka sees his effort on the rebound blocked by Sawyers.

2' Phillips tries to angle a ball over the top for the run of Robinson, but the forward is caught offside.

1' We're underway at The Hawthorns.

West Brom are unbeaten in their last three Premier League home games against Arsenal (W2 D1), having only avoided defeat in three of their first nine against them at the Hawthorns in the competition (W1 D2 L6).

Arteta has made two changes to his team for tonight from his line-up that defeated Brighton. Elneny drops out of the team to the bench as Ceballos partners Xhaka in the midfield. Lacazette gets the call to spearhead the attack, which sees Martinelli also move to the sidelines. Aubameryang will start on the left side of a three-man attacking line behind the Frenchman.

The Baggies have made two changes in response to their hammering against Leeds. Ivanovic and Pereira get the nod to start in place of Peltier and Karlan Grant. The latter misses out altogether, while Peltier drops to the bench. West Brom could shift to a new back-three system that could see Phillips deployed as a wing-back. Robinson leads the line in the absence of Grant, with Diangana and Pereira in support.

ARSENAL SUBS: Willian, Runar Alex Runarsson, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Nicolas Pepe, David Luiz, Mohamed Elneny, Joe Willock, Eddie Nketiah, Gabriel Martinelli.

ARSENAL (4-2-3-1): Bernd Leno; Hector Bellerin, Rob Holding, Pablo Mari, Kieran Tierney; Dani Ceballos, Granit Xhaka; Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang; Alexandre Lacazette.

WEST BROM SUBS: Kieran Gibbs, Kyle Bartley, Kamil Grosicki, Charlie Austin, Rekeem Harper, Filip Krovinovic, Lee Peltier, David Button, Cheikh Diaby.

WEST BROM (4-1-4-1): Sam Johnstone; Darnell Furlong, Semi Ajayi, Dara O'Shea, Branislav Ivanovic; Romaine Sawyers; Matheus Pereira, Matt Phillips, Conor Gallagher, Grady Diangana; Callum Robinson.

Arsenal have found life just at the right time under Mikel Arteta. The Gunners endured a seven-match winless run in the Premier League before beating Chelsea on Boxing Day. They backed up their efforts with a solid victory on the road over Brighton and Hove Albion. Arteta and his team cannot afford to rest on their laurels in their bid to maintain their momentum into the second half of the campaign.

West Brom endured a horror show in their last outing, which undid the work of their battling point against Liverpool on the road last week. Sam Allardyce's men were hammered 5-0 by Leeds on home soil, extending their winless run to six matches in all competitions. The Baggies have a major challenge on their hand in the second half of the season to haul themselves out of trouble, beginning with the Gunners tonight.

Good evening and welcome to the live commentary of the Premier League clash between West Brom and Arsenal at The Hawthorns.

  160 Hits

'Athletes unite the world, politics divides the world' - Ibrahimovic responds to LeBron James criticism

The English forward of Nigerian descent got his fourth goal of the season as Boro recorded an away victory over the Chairboys
Original author: Shina Oludare
  121 Hits

‘I don’t shine, I allow others to’ – Gundogan aware of his place in Man City’s galaxy of stars

The Germany international midfielder is not one to steal the headlines, but his value continues to be recognised by those at the Etihad Stadium

Ilkay Gundogan is happy to fill the role of unsung hero at Manchester City, with the German playmaker admitting that he allows “others to shine” in a galaxy of stars.

The 30-year-old midfielder boasts plenty of ability and has graced the Champions League final with Borussia Dortmund while collecting eight pieces of silverware in England.

He does, however, tend to steer clear of headline-making exploits, with those heroics being left to those operating alongside him.

Pep Guardiola is fully aware of how important players of that ilk can be, with the Catalan billing Gundogan as one of City’s best-ever signings, but the man himself is prepared to shun the spotlight.

“Someone said to me once I perhaps don’t shine but I allow others to shine, and that’s how I see myself,” Gundogan, who has taken in 177 appearances for City, told the Blues’ official website.

“You cannot just build a team of 11 players playing the same type of football and same type of characters and players.

“In the end, there has to be one harmony – one great picture that fits. That’s always the challenge.

“The most successful teams in history were so successful because they had different players playing in harmony.”

Gundogan has been catching the eye again for City this season, as he keeps things ticking over in the middle of the park, but he believes that his finest form in the Premier League came during a title-winning campaign in 2018-19.

“Maybe I would disagree [this is my best run of form] because the last few months where we won the league one point ahead of Liverpool, I felt very confident about my personal game,” added a man with 42 international caps to his name.

“That’s a period that still feels really good, not just for myself, but for the team. Maybe with the numbers people think I am better now, but I am honest, numbers are never really important for me in football.

“When I leave the pitch after the final whistle, if I feel I have played as good as I could, when I am happy and proud of what I have done on the pitch, that’s the point I feel comfortable – not if I score one, two goals or whatever.

“You need players who score, but that’s not something I identify with. Obviously, when I am in the region to score goals, I try.”

City have not been at their free-flowing best as a collective this season, but they have tightened up at the back and could move to within four points of defending champions Liverpool with victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Original author: Chris Burton
  189 Hits

Flamengo vs Corinthians: How to watch Brasileirao Serie A matches

K'Ogalo will be hosting CR Belouizdad in the second leg of their Caf Champions League tie on Wednesday at Nyayo Stadium

Gor Mahia treasurer Dolfina Odhiambo has hit out at coach Sammy Omollo stating he was rigid in his strategy and had no experience playing against North Afircan teams after the embarrassing loss away to CR Belouizdad in the first leg of their Caf Champions League tie.

The Posta Rangers tactician had come in as a stand-in coach for K'Ogalo in the aftermath of that humiliation, and is now charged with avoiding a similar result in the return match. 

In the match, that was played at the Stade du 5 Juillet 1962 on December 26, the Great Chabab put six goals past K'Ogalo and the official believes the coach did not manage the game properly.

"I still maintain, our strategy sold us," Odhiambo told Radio Jambo on Saturday. "I am not saying that the coach [should be held fully responsible for the result] but the problem was that he was too rigid.

"If I was in his shoes, I would have given the boys three options because you can never tell," he added. "Also remember, he has never played with these Arabs.

"You know we were speaking from experience having [faced North African teams] before. He has never faced them as a coach, he has never had the Caf [Champions League] experience with these guys."

The vocal official opined the former Kenya defender should have changed the tactics early to avoid the humiliating loss in Algeria.

"[Omollo] was just being rigid, and that rigidity is what cost us," Odhiambo continued "Not that he is a bad coach; but if I were him, I would have given the players two or three different strategies for example after we conceded two goals in the first 15 minutes, we could have changed our strategy.

"He changed the strategy in the second half when we had already conceded four goals and by the time it was tough already."

Meanwhile, Gor Mahia players have once again threatened to boycott the second leg of their second preliminary round of the Caf Champions League game against CR Belouizdad if their dues are not settled.

The Kenyan champions are scheduled to host the Algerian giants on Wednesday, January 6 at Nyayo Stadium. However, all is not well at K'Ogalo and senior players have opted to stay away from training ahead of the game.

"The situation is not good at all, players have opted to stay at home in protest for their money," a senior source at the club told Goal "On Saturday, players were to report in training but a few fringe ones turned up. Remember, also current caretaker coach [Patrick] Odhiambo is also in his rural home with the family.

"If nothing is done, I doubt whether the Wednesday game will be played, or even if it will be played, results might be worse or close to the 6-0 loss suffered in the first leg."

Original author: Seth Willis
  44 Hits

'I make the decisions' - Klopp defends choice to take off 'tired' Salah in Chelsea defeat

Unai Emery has admitted that Takefusa Kubo is looking to find a way out of his loan spell at Villarreal from Real Madrid.

Real signed the Japanese teenager from FC Tokyo in 2019, but farmed him out on loan to Mallorca last season and Villarreal this term.

While he enjoyed a productive time at Mallorca, things have not gone as planned at Villarreal and the winger is keen to head out of the club in January.

“I asked Kubo if he wanted to stay or leave and he told me that he is looking for a way out,” coach Emery said after Villarreal’s 2-1 win over Levante on Saturday.

“Take’s behaviour is good, he has helped us and he must continue to grow as a player, however, he told me he wants to leave in order to find more minutes elsewhere and that’s why he wasn’t in the matchday squad today.”

Getafe are keen to pick up the player for the second half of the season.

Speaking on Onda Cero , Getafe president Angel Torres confirmed his club’s interest.

“Kubo wants to come to Getafe,” Torres said. “Yes, another reinforcement could be Carles Alena, but we are not going to go crazy.”

An agreement would need to be struck between Real and Villarreal for the early termination of the loan, but given that Kubo has been a bit-part player - and was not in the squad for the game with Levante - it suggests that will not be difficult to achieve.

Real are keen for the 19-year-old to secure regular game time in a bid to aid his development, and Getafe may be prepared to offer that chance.

While the focus at Villarreal is on securing a place in the top four in La Liga, the aim at Getafe is to avoid relegation.

Getafe sit in 15th in the table, two points above the relegation spots, and coach Jose Bordalas will hope any arrival is up to speed.

Bordalas’ side are on a three-game winless run and were beaten 1-0 at home by Valladolid on Saturday.

It is unlikely any deal will be done in time for Getafe’s trip to Cordoba on Tuesday.

  65 Hits

Modise lauds Mamelodi Sundowns' ability to adapt in Orlando Pirates win

Downs' victory over what are arguably their biggest rivals for the title was a solid statement of intent in terms of defending their league crown

Former Bafana Bafana midfielder Teko Modise is impressed with Mamelodi Sundowns' ability to adapt their style in order to beat Orlando Pirates.

The Brazilians edged out the Buccaneers 1-0 in the first Premier League encounter of 2021, played at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The only goal of the game came 10 minutes before the interval in Pretoria and was scored by Downs defender Brian Onyango, his first for the club.

It was not a pretty win for Sundowns, who were without several of their usual attacking threats, including Themba Zwane, Sibusiso Vilakazi, Hlompho Kekana, Gift Motupa, Gaston Sirino and Promise Makhuma, while Kermit Erasmus started on the bench as he makes his way back to full fitness.

In the end it took some backs-to-the-wall defending from Sundowns in the final 20 minutes of the game, which as Modise points out, highlights the fact that, although Masandawana are known for their free-flowing attacking play, they also have the tools to dig in and grind out victories when needed.

"Mamelodi Sundowns proved today that can defend. They did well, especially later on when the system required them to defend,” Modise said in his role as a SuperSport TV analyst. “Credit should go to Sundowns, defensively they did well. 

"I thought they were very defensive, but also because the game required them to do so, because we all know how dangerous Pirates are in transition.

“We also spoke about how Mamelodi Sundowns can be dangerous from set pieces, especially with the personnel that was on the pitch today, and they got the goal from a set piece," Modise, who played for both clubs, added.

Modise’s fellow analyst and former Buccaneer Dikgang Mabalane meanwhile believes that the manner of the win was a statement of intent from the Brazilians and bodes well for Masandawana’s hopes of securing a fourth successive league title.

“Not only did Sundowns win the game today, but they’ve shown the character of the team, the resilience of the team," he said. "These are the reigning champions, and they’re still at the top of the log.

"It's an intention, you can see the superiority of the team, in terms of competing in the league.”

  223 Hits

Boca Juniors vs River Plate on US TV: How to watch Liga Argentina matches

While both Superclasico rivals have one eye on their upcoming Libertadores matches, they will still be desperate to put in a strong display

Argentine football continues across the festive season this December and January with the playing of the Copa Diego Armando Maradona.

All games are live streamed on Fanatiz and you can sign up to watch free here.

Boca was crowned 2019-20 league champions in March after coming out on top during the 23-game season. 

The Copa Superliga was scheduled to follow on from the regular campaign, but was scrapped after just one game as football came to a halt.

This season’s action began with a new cup format, renamed after Diego Maradona following his death in November, where six groups of four teams competed for 12 places in the Campeon de Copa phase.

This next step consists of two groups of six teams and the winner of each will play in a final clash on January 17.

The winner of the Campeon phase will then qualify for the 2021 Copa Libertadores.

There is also a Sudamericana spot open to the sides disputing the Complementary phase, which is exactly the same in format and includes all the teams that failed to qualify for the Campeon phase.

It is expected that the new season of the next Primera Division will then follow in March 2021.

Fanatiz has the rights to the Copa de la Liga Profesional worldwide, excluding Argentina, Germany, Austria, Portugal, Israel, Russia, Sweden and the Balkans.

How to watch Boca vs River on US TV

The Superclasico fixture between Boca Juniors and River Plate is Argentina's showpiece clash, bringing together the nation's two biggest clubs who have disputed one of the world's fiercest rivalries for over a century. 

Saturday's game, though, the first played between the two since 2019, will take on a slightly different look. 

Covid-19 restrictions means that Boca's famed Bombonera home will be shorn of its usual passionate support, stripping the Superclasico of its usual colour and noise. 

Both Boca and River, meanwhile, have their minds elsewhere during this Copa Maradona despite playing in the decisive Championship phase - the sides currently sit joint-top of the group with only two games remaining - as their Copa Libertadores semi-finals with Santos and Palmeiras respectively approach midweek. 

Plenty of squad rotation is therefore expected for Saturday's crunch match, with the two sides focused first and foremost on their Copa aspirations. 

But that will not affect the commitment of those picked to walk out at the Bombonera, with expectations as high as ever in this most hard-fought of derbies.

Live Stream: Fanatiz English ( stream now )

Date Time (US PT / ET) Match Channel
January 2 4:30pm/7:30pm Boca Juniors vs River Plate Fanatiz

Boca vs River team news and preview

Boca are set to rest a handful of key players for River's visit, including veteran captain Carlos Tevez.

Mauro Zarate and Ramon Abila are likely to start up front in Tevez's place, while Edwin Cardona will have the chance to shine after losing ground in the Boca starting XI in recent weeks. 

River coach Marcelo Gallardo trained during the week with an almost entirely changed, experimental first team, but it remains to be seen whether more established names such as Matias Suarez or Robert Rojas eventually push their way into contention to form a more familiar side. 

The Millonario will definitely be without injured defensive duo Fabricio Angileri and Milton Casco as well as Lucas Pratto, who sealed a move to Feyenoord at the end of December.

Watch all this weekend's Copa Diego Armando Maradona matches on Fanatiz in the US  with a 7-day free trial.

What other Copa Diego Armando Maradona matches are available on Fanatiz?

Date Time (US PT / ET) Match Channel
January 2 12:30pm/3:30pm Rosario Central vs Defensa y Justicia Fanatiz
January 3 12:10pm/3:10pm Independiente vs Arsenal Fanatiz
January 3 2:20pm/5:20pm Patronato vs Lanus Fanatiz
January 3 2:20pm/5:20pm Newell's Old Boys vs Velez Sarsfield Fanatiz
January 3 4:30pm/7:30pm Central Cordoba vs Racing Club Fanatiz
January 4 12:10pm/3:10pm Aldosivi vs Union Fanatiz
January 4 2:20pm/5:20pm San Lorenzo vs Gimnasia Fanatiz
January 4 4:30pm/7:30pm Talleres vs Banfield Fanatiz
January 5 2:20pm/5:20pm Godoy Cruz vs Estudiantes Fanatiz
January 5 2:20pm/5:20pm Huracan vs Argentinos Fanatiz
January 5 4:30pm/7:30pm Atletico Tucuman vs Colon Fanatiz

All games are live streamed on Fanatiz and you can sign up to watch free here.

Original author: Goal
  239 Hits

Afcon Qualifiers: Togo announce squad to play Comoros and Kenya

The former Hamburger SV mentor was disappointed to see his charges fail to take their chances which saw Bucs remain fifth on the league table

Orlando Pirates head coach Josef Zinnbauer believes that luck wasn’t on his team's side in their defeat by Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday afternoon. 

The Buccaneers recorded their maiden defeat of the season when they suffered a 1-0 loss to Masandawana in a PSL match which took place in Tshwane. 

Zinnbauer watched on as Bucs created chances which they failed to take at Loftus Versfeld Stadium and he felt that his side was unlucky on the day.

"Set-pieces, goal, it's always difficult. We know against Sundowns. All the little luck in think in the first half we were good in the game," Zinnbauer told SuperSport TV.  "We had a lot of opportunities to score the first goal. Second half we did what we can.

"Played forward, chances yes, but not enough of the final shot or final pass."

Current PSL Golden Boot holder Frank Mhango was brilliantly denied by Sundowns goalkeeper Denis Onyango in the closing stages of the match, before striker Jean-Marc Makusu failed to control the ball in a one-on-one situation with the Uganda international. 

"We gave it all in our last 20 minutes, and when you do that, they could hit us on the counter. Then we had a little luck. I'm disappointed," he continued. "We did a lot of work, it was not a bad performance. But yeah we had not the goal that we need. I think if we scored in the first half, we could have won the game."

Full-back Wayde Jooste was substituted at half-time by Zinnbauer and the German tactician explained why he introduced midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu, who was deployed in the right-back position. 

"It was a tactical aspect. We needed a goal. We know Ndlovu is flexible, he can play as a six or as an eight," he added. "This was the reason we changed at half-time. We wanted more offensive options. It wasn't just Ndlovu. It was the whole team.

"We had the opportunities but we didn't score and then it's not possible you can win a game."

Pirates have now turned their attention to their Caf Confederation Cup first round second-leg game against Angolan side Sagrada Esperanca.

The match will be played in Soweto, Johannesburg on January 6 and Bucs are leading 1-0 in aggregate. 

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo
  132 Hits

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