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Success breaks Serie A duck in Udinese's draw with Verona

The Nigeria forward marked his first start for the Little Zebras with their only goal at the Dacia Arena

Isaac Success opened his Serie A goal account in Udinese’s 1-1 draw with Verona on Wednesday.

Success made his first start for Luca Gotti's side since his loan signing for Watford in August and he instantly made an impression for the hosts.

The 25-year-old opened the scoring at the Dacia Arena in the third minute, following an assist from Tolgay Arslan.

The lead separated the two teams for the majority of Wednesday’s encounter, until Antonin Barak scored the equaliser for Verona from the penalty spot in the 83rd minute.

The late strike denied the Little Zebras maximum points as they settled for their fourth straight draw in the Italian top-light.

Meanwhile, Success was in action for 63 minutes, which was his second league appearance of the season. On the other end, Verona had Cameroon's Martin Hongla on parade for the first 45 minutes.

Gotti’s men are 14th in the league table with 11 points after 10 matches – four points above the drop zone.

Success will be looking to build on his maiden goal when Udinese visit Inter Milan for their next Serie A match on Sunday.

The Nigeria striker who has been at Vicarage Road since 2016, moved to Italy to secure regular time at Udinese, which is controlled by the same owner of Watford – the Pozzo family.

He played a part in the Hornets' promotion to the Premier League last season after he scored a goal in 10 Championship matches.

(Originally posted by Taiye Taiwo)
  213 Hits

Lookman on target as Leicester City overcome Mwepu's Brighton in League Cup

Two African stars were on target at the King Power Stadium before the hosts progressed via penalty shoot-out

Ademola Lookman scored Leicester City's second goal before Enock Mwepu scored the equaliser for Brighton & Hove Albion as Wednesday's League Cup ended in a 2-2 draw before penalty shoot-out.

Harvey Barnes put the Foxes in the lead in the sixth minute and there were two late goals from the two teams before the interval.

Adam Webster cancelled out Barnes' opener, three into added time but it did not take long for Lookman to restore the hosts' lead at the King Power Stadium.

The Anglo-Nigerian found the back of the net, two minutes after Webster’s equaliser as Leicester City go into the break ahead.

Upon resumption from half-time, Zambia international Mwepu was introduced for Dan Burn and shortly later, he grabbedd the equaliser that forceed the game into a penalty shoot-out.

His compatriot Patson Daka played the entire duration for the Foxes while Nigeria's Kelechi Iheanacho replaced Lookman in the 73rd minute and Senegal's Nampalys Mendy was introduced in the 59th minute.

During the shoot-out, Leicester City converted all their efforts with Daka scoring the third attempt. For Brighton, Mwepu and Neal Maupay missed their strikes which gave Brendan Rodgers' side a 4-2 penalty shoot-out victory.

Next up for Leicester City, is a Premier League clash against Arsenal at the King Power Stadium on Saturday, before they play host to Victor Moses' Spartak Moscow for their Uefa Europa League encounter.

(Originally posted by Taiye Taiwo)
  246 Hits

Rashford: I'm embarrassed by Manchester United's flop against Liverpool

The forward started in a nightmare 5-0 defeat to the Reds on Sunday and admitted he needed time before speaking about the game

Marcus Rashford said he is "embarrassed" by Manchester United's 5-0 defeat to Liverpool on Sunday, explaining the humiliation as his reason for being silent on social media in recent days.

The forward acknowledged the lopsided result was unfair to fans and pledged to redeem himself as the season progresses.

It was Manchester United's heaviest defeat at home to Liverpool and their first shutout loss by at least five goals at home since February 1955.

What has been said?

Rashford issued his public apology for Manchester United's loss on Wednesday afternoon after a period of reflection.

It was his first tweet since the previous Thursday.

Bigger picture

Manchester United have needed to do plenty of soul-searching this week, with Rashford's comments likely resonating among his peers.

The Red Devils meet Tottenham on Saturday in a crucial Premier League fixture. United are in seventh place, one point behind Tottenham in sixth.

Further reading

  219 Hits

Barcelona boss Koeman insists defeat to Rayo Vallecano was not fair

The Dutch manager will see more calls for his job after another underwhelming result

Ronald Koeman has insisted that Barcelona's 1-0 defeat to Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday was not a fair result.

Radamel Falcao's 30th-minute goal at Estadio de Vallecas was the difference as Barca suffered their second straight defeat after losing El Clasico to Real Madrid at the weekend.

The result left Barcelona in ninth place in La Liga and will likely lead to more calls for Koeman's job as manager.

What was said?

“I don’t know if my future is in danger,” Koeman said at his post-match press conference. “We have players with goals in them. [Sergio] Aguero, [Memphis] Depay.

“It was difficult for us to get into the game, they put a lot of pressure on us. We’ve been superior. The result isn’t fair, but it’s there and we can’t change it. 

"The game we lost today isn’t a problem of attitude or play. The team’s level has dropped. We’ve lost very effective players, which also counts.”

What is Koeman's job status?

There were strong rumours earlier in the season that Koeman was set for the axe, with Belgium boss Roberto Martinez and ex-Barca star Xavi tipped to step in.

But earlier this month, Barcelona president Joan Laporta insisted that Koeman would not be sacked any time soon.

Since Laporta's declaration, however, Barca have lost three games out of five and appear a long way off challenging for trophies this term.

After a match against Alaves at the weekend, the Blaugrana have a huge Champions League encounter with Dynamo Kyiv on Tuesday.

With Bayern Munich clear at the summit of Group E, Barcelona appear to be battling Benfica and Dynamo for the second qualification spot.

Further reading

(Originally posted by Seth Vertelney)
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Who'll be next to join Premier League's 100 Club? Mane, Sterling, Ronaldo?

The Bafana Bafana forward has netted twice in his first match for the Egyptian giants

Bafana Bafana forward Percy Tau has scored twice on his debut for Egyptian giants Al-Ahly, as they take on Ismaily SC in Wednesday’s top flight fixture.

The 27-year-old was named in Pitso Mosimane’s 21-man matchday squad for their opening showdown against their local rivals as they look to clinch their record-extending 43rd domestic league title.

Tau is one of a swathe of exciting new signings at Ahly, with ex Simba SC attacker Luis Miquissone, and duo Ahmed Abdelkader and Hossam Hassan also included in the Red Devils’ squad.

The former Brighton man netted twice inside the first 35 minutes, opening the scoring in the 22nd minute when he latched onto a through ball, dribbled through the middle of the Ismaily defence, before sending a left-footed shot beyond the hosts’ stopper.

For Tau’s second, seven minutes later, he reacted first to meet a cross, evading the pressure of a defender, before scooping the ball beyond the advancing stopper.

(Originally posted by Ed Dove)
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Barcelona win over Sociedad shows 'we will be where we should be', says Koeman

Having failed to win their last three PSL games, the Buccaneers are looking to redeem themselves against Thwihli Thwahla. This is how they could start
(Originally posted by Michael Madyira)
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PSL Wrap: McCarthy's AmaZulu FC humbled, Stellenbosch FC close gap on Mamelodi Sundowns

Two matchday eight games were played on Wednesday and it was Stellies and Sekhukhune, who recorded wins

AmaZulu FC were humbled by Sekhukhune United in an encounter that was played at Emirates Airline Park in Johannesburg.

Usuthu were oozing with confidence having qualified for the Caf Champions League group stage for the club's history over the weekend and coach Benni McCarthy was now looking to mastermind a win over Sekhukhune. 

However, two second-half goals from Willard Katsande and Chibuike Ohizu inspired Sekhukhune to a well-deserved 2-0 victory as they brought McCarthy's side down to earth. 

Babina Noko dominated the game and created the better chances with goalkeeper Veli Mothwa forced to produce fine saves to deny Pogiso Mahlangu and Seth Parusnath in the first-half.

However, the Bafana Bafana international was finally beaten after the restart and it was former Kaizer Chiefs star Katsande, who broke the deadlock in the 48th minute.

Tlotlo Leepile's corner-kick was flicked by Mahlangu at the near post and Katsande scored with a tap in from the blind spot to hand Sekhukhune a 1-0 lead and it was his first goal for the club.

Mothwa was beaten for the second time in the 51st minute when Ohizu scored from close range to make it 2-0 to Sekhukhune and it was his fifth league goal of the season.

Babina Noko were reduced to 10 players when Mahlangu was sent off after receiving his second yellow card of the game, but they managed to contain Usuthu until the game ended in a 2-0 win in favour of Sekhukhune.

The victory took Sekhukhune to fourth place on the league standings as they continue to impress in their debut season in the local top flight, while AmaZulu remained eighth on the log.

Meanwhile, Stellenbosch FC maintained their unbeaten start to the current PSL season when they secured a 1-0 win over Marumo Gallants at Danie Craven Stadium in the Western Cape.

Stellies were hoping to move up to second place on the standings after SuperSport United dropped points over the weekend, while Gallants were brimming with confidence having reached the Caf Confederation Cup play-off round last week Friday.

The only goal of the match was netted by the in-form Ashley Du Preez, who beat goalkeeper Washington Arubi with a cool finish to hand Stellenbosch a 1-0 lead three minutes before the half-hour mark.

Bahlabane Ba Ntwa pushed for the equalizing goal after the restart, but they couldn't beat Sage Stephens in the Stellies goal-posts on the day and the game ended in a 1-0 win in favour of Stellenbosch.

The victory took Stellies to second-place on table - three points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, while Gallants, who are still winless in the PSL, remained 15th on the table. 

(Originally posted by Austin Ditlhobolo)
  292 Hits

‘We get on very well’ - Choupo-Moting on his relationship with Mbappe and Neymar

The Nigerians crashed out in the competition’s second round, but the goalkeeper claims it was a learning experience for the Yenagoa-based outfit

Goalkeeper John Shaibu says Bayelsa United have no regrets about losing to CS Sfaxien in the second qualifying round of the Caf Confederation Cup.

The Nigeria National League side crashed out of the competition after losing 4-1 on aggregate to the Tunisian giants.

Bayelsa secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg, but they were mauled 4-0 in the reverse fixture staged at the Stade Taieb Mhiri, Sfax on Saturday.

According to the former Sunshine Stars and Abia Warriors star, Diepreye Teibowei’s men have taken some positives from the loss.

“I am proud of my team’s performance and I must say that we have no regrets losing to a top club like CS Sfaxien,” Shaibu told Goal.

“We put in our best both home and away but at the end, we were unlucky not to qualify for the play-off round.

“This is a good learning experience for us and going forward, you will see a better Bayelsa United, we have set a standard for ourselves.

“Despite playing in the Caf Confederation Cup, we set out to shock the continent by emerging as champions, but that did not happen the way we wanted.

“Hopefully, we will try and qualify for the tournament again in the 2022-23 campaign and we hope to go beyond the second round.”

The NNL side won the 2021 Aiteo Cup after defeating NPFL side Nasarawa United via penalty shoot-out following a 2-2 draw after extra-time.

With that, they became the first team from Nigeria’s second division to lift the prestigious cup since Dolphins FC's feat 20 years ago.

Shaibu added how his team’s ambition is to now earn a berth in the Nigeria Professional Football League when the new season begins.

“With our hopes to stun Africa dashed, we have moved on and we have shifted our focus on qualifying for the NPFL,” he continued.

“The teams we played in the Confederation Cup found it hard to believe that we are playing in Nigeria’s lower league because of the way we played.

“We will not let that get into our heads and all we can do to make our fans happy is by returning to the Nigerian topflight where we truly belong.”

(Originally posted by Shina Oludare)
  231 Hits

Arsenal needed 'complete midfielder' Partey during Wenger era - Essien

After some stadium spectators were allowed to watch the Bafana Bafana against Ethiopia match, the league has also moved to open the turnstiles again

The Premier Soccer League has announced 2000 “fully vaccinated” fans will be at Moses Mabhida Stadium for the MTN8 final between Mamelodi Sundowns and Cape Town City on Saturday.

Since March 2020, no supporters have been allowed to attend matches organised by the PSL due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But Safa opened FNB Stadium earlier in October to watch the 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifier between South Africa and Ethiopia with spectatorship limited to 2000 fully vaccinated fans.

The PSL has attached similar conditions for Saturday's clash, and no tickets will be sold.

“In accordance with the approval granted by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in terms of the directives issued by the minister of Sport, Arts and Culture on 15 October 2021, a total number of 2000 people will be allowed to attend the MTN8 final,” the PSL said in a statement.

“The attendees will be made up of tickets issued to sponsors of the league as per contractual obligations, MTN8 finalist member clubs’ allocation, and accredited personnel [working staff, members of the media, players, technical team members and match officials].   Due to the above-mentioned factors, there will be no tickets available for sale.  

“As provided in the directives, all attendees must be fully vaccinated and adhere to all covid-19 protocols such as wearing of masks and social distancing.”

Earlier this month, Safa said the PSL had agreed to use the November 6 Soweto derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates as a “mass vaccination drive” by allowing a certain number of fans to attend this fixture between the traditional giants.

The Soweto Derby is the biggest crowd-puller in South African football and is always sold out.

But the league has decided to begin that drive earlier, starting with the MTN8 final.

“The League calls upon all members of the public to continue supporting the government's stance on the importance of vaccinations and the achievement of the required herd immunity. The sooner sufficient South Africans are vaccinated, the sooner supporters will be able to return in numbers,” added the PSL.

(Originally posted by Michael Madyira)
  169 Hits

Tusker 1-2 FC Talanta: Kahiro brace condemn Brewers to second defeat

The Brewers remained winless from two matches in the top-flight after failing to beat the promoted side at Ruaraka grounds

Tusker suffered their second defeat of the season in the FKF Premier League after losing 2-1 against FC Talanta in a match at Ruaraka grounds on Wednesday.

The promoted side took the lead in the 20th minute when Francis Kahiro scored from close range before Tusker levelled courtesy of James Macharia's tap-in in the 56th minute but Kahiro scored yet again in the 62nd minute to sink the Brewers at their backyard.

The Brewers coach Robert Matano handed new signing Stewart Omondi his first start since joining the team while former Kariobangi Sharks goalkeeper Brian Bwire was restored between the sticks after he sat out of the team's 4-0 Caf Champions League defeat against Zamalek last Friday.

Meanwhile, Talanta coach Ken Kenyatta kept faith with the team that had beaten Vihiga Bullets 2-0 with goalkeeper Kevin Otieno keeping his spot same as striker Brian Yakhama.

It was Talanta, who started the game on the front foot and they almost took the lead with only five minutes played when Barrack Odhiambo released the unmarked Michael Jairo at the far end of the corner and the left-footed player dribbled past two defenders before unleashing a shot which hit the woodwork.

However, five minutes later, they took a deserved lead when Kahiro pounced onto a loose ball in the Brewers’ danger zone after a clever deliver from Nichodemus Malika before beating Bwire with a right-footed effort.

Talanta kept knocking at Tusker’s door and they almost went 2-0 up in the 20th minute after Malika set Kahiro with a through ball but Bwire came out quickly from his line to gather the ball.

In the 36th minute, Tusker missed an open chance to level the scores after former AFC Leopards player Clyde Senaji set up Omondi but his final effort flew over the bar.

In the 44th minute, Tusker were handed a free-kick at the edge of the box after Ibrahim Joshua was fouled by Alvin Ochieng, and Senaji stepped up to curl a good effort which Talanta keeper Otieno tipped over the bar to keep the scores 1-0 at the half-time break.

On resumption, Otieno pulled a great save to deny Tusker’s Joshua after he combined well with John Njuguna and Macharia.

Tusker made three changes Shami Kibwana, Kevin Mbugua, and Boniface Muchiri coming in for Rodgers Ouma, Omondi, and Njuguna while Talanta pulled out Yakhama for Edwin Lavatsa.

Tusker then levelled the scores in the 56th minute when Macharia tapped in a cross from Kibwana which bounced off keeper Otieno to hit the back of the net.

But five minutes later, Talanta took the lead for the second time in the game when Kahiro powered home his second of the day after beating his markers to slot past Bwire.

The defeat means Tusker are yet to win a match this season since they lost their season opener 1-0 against AFC Leopards while Talanta have two wins from four matches.

Tusker: Brian Bwire, Kevin Monyi, Hillary Wandera, Kalos Kirenge, Eugine Asike, Clyde Senaji, Jackson Macharia, Rodgers Ouma, Stewart Omondi, Ibrahim Joshua and John Njuguna.

Subs: Patrick Matasi, Christopher Oruchum, Mbugua, Teddy Osok, Boniface Muchiri, and Shami Kibwana.

FC Talanta: Kevin Otieno, Alvin Ochieng, Evans Makari, Nichodemus Malika, Shela Mandela, Michael Bodo, Barrack Odhiambo, Francis Kahiro, Anthony Gicho, Michael Jairo and Brian Yakhama.

Subs: James Omusinde, Eugene Ambulwa, Erick Lusala, Luis Masika, Enock Machaka, Mohamed Coulibaly, Edwin Lavatsa, Maurice Dukuly and Vincent Otieno.

(Originally posted by Dennis Mabuka)
  208 Hits

'Anything goes in the league' - Solskjaer calls on Manchester United players to show title credentials over Christmas

The Brazilian made his 50th Liga appearance for the Blancos at Camp Nou, but is not content to rest on his laurels

Rodrygo has admitted he is not completely "satisfied" after starring in Real Madrid's Clasico win at Barcelona as he aims to reach even greater heights with the Spanish giants.

Madrid moved up to second in the Liga standings with an impressive 2-1 win at Camp Nou on Sunday, opening up a five-point advantage over their arch-rivals in the process.

David Alaba and Lucas Vazquez grabbed the goals for the Blancos, but Rodrygo also produced another impressive display on the right wing to mark his 50th appearance in the Spanish top flight in style.

What has been said?

The Brazilian is currently keeping Eden Hazard out of Madrid's starting XI and they are on course to fight for the title after seeing off Barca, but he has no intention of resting on his laurels.

"I'm not satisfied with the Clasico, I want more," Rodrygo told Goal. "Reaching 50 games in La Liga is something very important for me.

"I am young, this is only my third season and I have already reached such a milestone. I hope to continue, always with the aim of helping Real Madrid win.

"I'm happy to reach these figures and I will work to reach others. We are in a very good moment, the team has evolved and the trend is to improve more and more, with each game."

Rodrygo's Madrid record

Rodrygo completed a €45 million (£38m/$52m) move to Madrid from Flamengo in 2019, and has since appeared in 71 games in all competitions for the club. The 20-year-old has scored 11 goals, including two at the start of the new campaign, and has 12 assists to his name.

What's next?

Rodrygo will be back in contention for a place in Carlo Ancelotti's line-up when Madrid welcome Osasuna to Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday night.

The Blancos then prepare for an away fixture against Osasuna on Saturday, which comes four days before their next Champions League group stage outing against Sheriff.

Further reading

(Originally posted by Mario Cortegana)
  266 Hits

Real Madrid 3-2 Inter: Player Ratings as Subs Combine to Hand Los Blancos Much-Needed Victory

Kariobangi Sharks 0-2 Gor Mahia: Omala, Lwasa help keep K'Ogalo's unblemished run going

The local giants are yet to drop points in the league as they have outshined their first three season-opening rivals

Gor Mahia have registered their third straight Football Kenya Federation Premier League win after a 2-0 victory against Kariobangi Sharks on Wednesday at Kasarani.

The positive midweek result - courtesy of goals from Peter Lwasa and Benson Omala - means K'Ogalo have not dropped a point in the Premier League after victories against KCB, AFC Leopards, and now Kariobangi Sharks.

Omala - who scored against KCB in a league duel and against Al-Ahly Merowe of Sudan in the Champions League - opened the score for Gor Mahia with a 12th-minute strike.

Harun Shakava and John Ochieng had to assemble fast in their penalty area and their combined efforts managed to stop Kariobangi Sharks' Eric Mmata who had made his way into the danger zone at a terrific speed in the 21st minute.

K'Ogalo's backline was almost caught off guard again in the 24th minute as Karioangi Sharks attacked and won a corner after a water break. However, the away side managed to clear the resultant corner after William Muluya's side had decided to take a short one.

Samuel Onyango wasted a very open chance that would have doubled Gor Mahia's lead in the 28th minute. Austin Odhiambo did well to beat a number of his markers and laid a cut-back pass for the former Ulinzi Stars forward, whose final shot hugely missed the target as the ball flew way above the crossbar.

Kariobangi Sharks' goalkeeper Brandon Obiero had to make a quick retreat and tip Lwasa's shot over the bar. Lwasa had spotted Obiero off his line and tried to volley the ball over him, but the custodian was quick to retreat and clear the danger in the 31st minute.

Omala would have registered a brace in the 49th minute had the referee not disallowed his goal for offside. The former Western Stima striker took a volley over Obiero, but his effort could not count as the referee overturned the goal as the second half picked up speed.

Gor Mahia's Gad Mathews was called to action in the 54th minute when he stopped Mata - from close range - from restoring parity. A few seconds after stopping Mata's effort, Mathews had to react quickly and deny Sydney Lokale from scoring from the rebound.

Boniface Omondi - who scored in the Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards in Gor Mahia's last Premier League engagement - came on for Onyango in the 63rd minute before John Macharia, Yusuf Mainge, and Peter Oudu replaced Ochieng, Omala and Fred Nkata respectively.

Lwasa, who was unlucky to get a goal on a number of previous occasions, found the back of the net in the 82nd minute. Obiero made a mistake as he tried to build from the back and gave the former Kariobangi Sharks star a perfect chance to double Gor Mahia's lead.

The loss is Kariobangi Sharks' first in the new campaign.

(Originally posted by Kiplagat Sang)
  153 Hits

Which other Africans could overtake Drogba's Premier League record?

Could any other Africans All-Stars eclipse the Chelsea great?
(Originally posted by Ed Dove)
  277 Hits

West Ham 2-1 Aston Villa: Player Ratings as Villans Rue Missed Ollie Watkins Penalty

The veteran administrator calls on the government to disband the current regime and set up a committee to oversee the day to day running of football

Sam Nyamweya has called on the government to move with speed and disband the Football Kenya Federation led by Nick Mwendwa after they were accused of running down the sport in the country.

With the government confirming they have been given the go-ahead to audit the federation accounts, Nyamweya, who served as the FKF boss in the last regime, has called on the Ministry of Sports to disband the current office with immediate effect.

'Current FKF regime has failed Kenyans'

“It is now clear the current FKF has failed Kenyans in their mandate to manage football in the country and I wish to thank the Ministry of Sports through Cabinet Secretary Amb. Amina Mohamed for her quick intervention to salvage what is left of the game,” Nyamweya said in a statement obtained by Goal.

“The move by the Ministry of Sports to order for the audit of FKF accounts is a clear indicator that the game of football is not in safe hands; the current regime has taken the game down the drain by misappropriating funds meant to improve the sport.

“On behalf of football stakeholders in the country, I want to request the Ministry of Sports to do the following: “There have been several claims of misappropriation of funds and several malpractices, and in our view we want the government to disband the federation with immediate effect because it is not worth to have such a federation now.

“The government to sit down with stakeholders and Fifa so as to form a caretaker committee to take charge of running football in the country with immediate effect, by doing so, it will help the investigative team to complete their work without interference.”

The statement continued: “In conclusion, it is now obvious the current regime does not have any moral authority to run football in the country and it is also obvious that money has been misappropriated.

“The stakeholders will be satisfied when the federation is disbanded and sent home and fresh blood brought in to run football in the country.”

Permission granted

On confirming the government had received the backing of Fifa to audit FKF accounts, Sports Principal Secretary Joe Okudo said: "We got the go-ahead from Fifa. That is why we have also requested the auditors from the Kenya National Audit Office and the private sector to audit the FKF funds. 

"We have been engaging Fifa to allow us to move in and help have proper structures at the FKF. Now that Fifa has allowed us, we will ensure proper management of football in this country.

"The committee’s summoning of Mr [Nick] Mwendwa will help our course to ensure accountability in the management of football in the country."

Meanwhile, the Sports Registrar has already started work to audit the federation’s accounts just three days after the Cabinet Secretary for Sports Amina Mohamed ordered for the same.

(Originally posted by Dennis Mabuka)
  160 Hits

Tau can really explode at Anderlecht - Elsner backs Bafana Bafana forward

In an exclusive interview with Goal, the Reds goalkeeper offers an insight into the Egyptian star's elite training-ground mentality
(Originally posted by Neil Jones)
  192 Hits

NWSL Challenge Cup a return to normalcy and a chance for change

The Inspection Committee has promised to complete the exercise of scrutinizing the federation’s accounts in the next two weeks

Sports Registrar has moved to start the process of auditing Football Kenya Federation accounts as ordered by the Ministry of Sports.

Goal can exclusively reveal the Sports Registrar through a committee formed to undertake the exercise have written to the federation seeking to have at least 34 documents so they can commence the exercise.

In a letter sent to FKF CEO Barry Otieno signed by the Inspection Committee chairperson Mike Kimoko and obtained by Goal, the committee has listed three key areas that will help them undertake the exercise.

'Scrutinise FKF books or records'

“Pursuant to the directive, the Sports Register on October 18, 2021, appointed an inspection [inspection committee] to undertake the exercise with the following Terms of reference," stated the four-paged letter dated October 25 and obtained by Goal.

“Identify areas of non-compliance to the Sports Act and any other relevant law including submission of Annual returns and other relevant documents to the Ministry.

“Scrutinise FKF books or records, accounts, and expenditure alongside the Kenya Constitution 2010, Public Management Finance Act. Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act. 2015 requirements to establish whether there has been misappropriation of funds advanced to FKF by the government, and any international or national organization or person among others and...

“Prepare an inspection report and submit it to the Cabinet Secretary within two weeks from the date of appointment.”

The statement continued: “Following the Cabinet Secretary’s directive that an inspection of FKF is undertaken in accordance with the Sports Act and the subsequent appointment of the Inspector, the Inspector hereby requests you to submit certified copies of the following documents for the period between July 1, 2014, to date or on or before October 28, 2021, to enable the Inspectors to execute their mandate.”

'Committee wants 34 documents from FKF'

Some of the documents the committees want include the current FKF constitution, Fifa and Caf statutes, FKF registration certificate(s), license for referees, coaches and athletes, list of registered sports organisations (County football sports associations and clubs including premier league, nationwide and super league), affiliated to FKF- and their registration certificates.

Other documents include a list of registered members, national officials/governing council members, athletes, and technical officials, identification documents i.e identity cards and phone numbers of staff members, national officials/governing council members, athletes and technical officials, contract of engagement of coaches, and referees and staff.

Others include master payroll, proposals, and requests for funding, a list of all projects undertaken and the respective projects' implementation, records including but not limited to contracts relating to funding of FKF by the government, Fifa, Caf, Odibets, Multi-choice amongst other donors.

Grants and donations from international organisations like Multichoice, Fifa, Odibets, and Caf, exchequer releases, expenditure returns and reports relating to funds received from the government, various organisations and individuals, internal and external audits, approved budgets, list of bank accounts held by FKF authorized signatories to FKF Bank accounts and the mandate, bank statements, bank reconciliation statements, cheque counterfoils, cashbooks, payment and vouchers properly grouped as per the voted provisions, impress files and registers, asset register, strategic plan, and procurement plans.

When reached for comment, FKF CEO Barry Otieno confirmed receipt of the letter but could not confirm whether they will comply or not.

“It is true we have received the letter asking us [FKF] to submit 34 documents to the investigating team, but we will discuss and get back to you,” Otieno told Goal.

The orders to investigate FKF accounts were issued by the Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Amina Mohamed.

(Originally posted by Dennis Mabuka)
  337 Hits

Liverpool's stunning Champions League triumph over Manchester City

Arsenal navigate a tricky tie to make it into the last eight of the EFL Cup then. The Gunners might not be favourites to win the trophy come February but on their day they'll give the best sides a run for their money. That's all for now. Goodbye!

Arsenal join Nottingham Forest as the only two sides Bielsa has failed to beat in any of his first four games against them. Leeds weren't really that bad here, but Arsenal's greater nous and strength in depth was evident. It was a mature second half by the Gunners, one that will please Arteta greatly.

Arsenal have edged their way into the EFL Cup quarter-finals! Leeds caused the hosts issues in the first half but Arteta's men smartened up in the second half, nosing themselves ahead through Chambers before sitting in. Once Nketiah capitalised on the visitors' unforced error, it was game over.

90' + 4' FULL-TIME: ARSENAL 2-0 LEEDS UNITED

90' + 3' Leeds earn a free-kick down their right. Harrison smashes the rebound into a defender and Gerhardt beats Lokonga before hitting the side netting. Leno takes the goal-kick and that's it!

90' + 2' To their credit Leeds are still trying to score. They're just not going to. 

90' There'll be four more minutes of this. Summerville races after Dramek's ball forward but can't create a chance of note.

88' Leeds eventually concede possession and hand Arsenal a goal-kick. Leno's ball upfield doesn't trouble Leeds as much as they do themselves. Lacazette robs Phillips and pirouettes into the box, lashing just over the crossbar.

86' Leeds pass the ball around in their own half but Arsenal are staying in shape. Bielsa's men look out of ideas.

84' Leeds have actually had more possession in this half than they did in the first half - they've had 58 per cent so far in this second period. Arsenal have stayed compact though and been able to pick the Whites off.

82' Leeds are still getting the odd chance but nothing to worry Leno. Greenwood twists this way and that to the right of Arsenal's box before rolling a tame effort into the goalkeeper's arms.

80' Harrison is still trying his best for Leeds but it's not working out. His cross from the right sails over everyone and out for a goal-kick.

78' Leeds have lost their way in this second half. Phillips demonstrates this fact by knocking a routine pass to Drameh out of play for an Arsenal throw-in and tripping Nketiah to give away a free-kick shortly after.

74' Leeds are huffing and puffing but it feels like the game has decisively swung against them now. Klich's shot from distance is blocked and Greenwood blasts into Leno's arms from a difficult angle on the right.

70' Nketiah has now scored seven goals in eight appearances in the EFL Cup, including two strikes while on loan at Leeds in 2019-20. The 22-year-old may not have forced himself into Arteta's first team yet but he's a useful squad player for Arsenal to have.

67' In typical fashion Leeds haven't given up yet. Harrison has a speculative effort blocked from the edge of the box. The winger gets a second bite of the cherry and curls the ball straight into the arms of Leno.

65' Smith Rowe makes a decent run through the middle but Pepe's pass sends the Englishman a little too far wide to test Meslier. 

63' Dallas trips Elneny in Arsenal's half. Arsenal have taken control of the game for now.

61' Arsenal have gone up a gear since the break. Martinelli heads wide from Cedric's free-kick before Nketiah darts behind Leeds' back line and forces a decent save from Meslier.

57' Arsenal have scored with their first shot on target of the half. Leeds don't really deserve to be behind and yet they are.

55' White is sat down looking glum. The centre-back looks to have picked up an injury and will have to go off. Arteta gives Chambers a pep talk down on the touchline.

51' Leeds hack the ball away from Meslier's goal. They lose out to Arsenal's press again though and Martinelli rattles a shot against a defender. The offside flag goes up seconds later.

49' Klich has slotted into midfield in Leeds' 4-1-4-1 which they've been playing since the start. The visitors pop the ball around for a while. Arsenal soon win the ball back though and Maitland-Niles earns his side a corner.

47' Martinelli stays down after a crunching challenge by Drameh. Leeds sportingly put the ball out of play as the Brazilian gets to his feet.

47' Leeds get the second half started. If these two teams can't be separated at the end of 90 minutes, the game will go straight to penalties.

Leeds haven't won any of their previous three games against Arsenal under Bielsa. They've got a decent chance of victory here at the moment though, having successfully got in behind the hosts a few times. Arteta's men need to stay focused in the second half if they're to avoid an unceremonious defeat.

Arsenal and Leeds will be pleased with how those opening 45 minutes went. This game may not have a goal yet but it's still been engaging. Both teams' goalkeepers have been called into action, although Leno has had slightly more to do. More to come!

45' + 1' HALF-TIME: ARSENAL 0-0 LEEDS UNITED

45' The officials indicate there'll be one minute of time added onto the end of this first half.

44' Arsenal keep Leeds pinned in their half and get yet another corner kick which is uneventful. James wins a free-kick as he's blocked by Cedric.

42' Now it's Arsenal's turn to attack. Nketiah keeps their latest corner in play at the far post and the hosts fling the ball back into the danger area. Smith Rowe spanks wildly over the crossbar from the edge of the box when Pepe's header lands to him.

40' Leeds stream forward once more and Roberts heads wide from the centre of the box as he reaches Harrison's cross. This is an entertaining tussle at the moment.

38' Arsenal have another corner but achieve little with it. Leeds have shaded possession so far. They've also had more shots than Arsenal: seven to the hosts' four.

36' Arsenal survive the corner but Leeds' direct passing is troubling Arsenal. The visitors move through midfield in two passes and Rodrigo finds himself running through on goal. Leno spots the danger early and wins the footrace to clear.

34' James takes down a forward pass with ease and Leeds move quickly from right to left. Roberts shifts onto his right foot to shoot in the box and his shot takes a deflecton for a Leeds corner.

33' Leeds' full-backs are playing ridiculously high when they play out from the back. It's leaving them at risk when Arsenal press, which they do and force another corner.

31' Arsenal come on the attack again, trying to force the issue. Smith Rowe loses possession down the Gunners' right. This has been a keenly fought affair so far.

29' White tries to play his way out from the back and is frustrated to be impeded by Rodrigo. Leeds stream forward after a turnover of possession but James can't find the right pass to trouble Arsenal again.

28' Leeds get another corner and again win the second ball. This time James gets a free pop at goal from the edge of the box but it's tame and Leno catches it easily. Still, Arsenal have been warned.

27' Leeds give Leno work to do again as they win a corner of their own. Arsenal can't head it out entirely and Harrison aims for the bottom right corner. The Gunners' goalkeeper dives low to keep it from finding the net.

26' Leeds go hunting from Arsenal's corner. Maitland-Niles positions himself well to stop James' cross.

25' Arsenal earn a free-kick near the touchline. Cedric takes it. Leeds get to it first but the rebound lands to Pepe whose shot is blocked for a corner.

21' Leeds are livening up. Harrison, finding himself on the right, darts inside and floats a harmless ball over everyone in the Arsenal box.

19' Chance for Leeds! James latches onto a ball over the top and finds himself one-on-one with Leno. The German rushes off his line to close James down and block the Welshman's shot. Pepe jinks into the box shortly after only to blaze high and wide.

17' Rodrigo strays offside as he tries to run onto Forshaw's throughball. Arsenal are playing a high line and Leeds are clearly trying to take advantage of it.

16' Leeds' corner doesn't lead to anything as Struijk nods wide. These two teams are fairly evenly matched so far, although Arsenal are faring slightly better.

14' Arsenal don't let up and they win another corner. Cedric's attempt is poor though. Rodrigo teases his way into the box and plays a one-two with Roberts. Roberts' shot clatters against a defender and goes out for a corner.

13' Leeds' attempt to play out from the back ends in them giving Arsenal a cheap throw-in. Pepe cuts onto his favoured left foot and Dallas sticks a foot in to prevent him from getting a cross in.

11' Arsenal get a second corner which Leeds manage to clear. Pepe looks to beat his man down the right but can't keep his footing.

10' Maitland-Niles arrives first to Nketiah's flick on, taking a tumble in the box. The ball falls for Kolasinac and the Bosnian left-back forces a decent stop from Meslier at his near post, earning Arsenal a corner.

9' Phillips plays a sliderule pass for Rodrigo that almost pays off. It doesn't though and Arsenal counter. Leeds soon get back to tidy up.

8' James' foray down the wing for Leeds doesn't lead to a shooting opportunity. Bielsa is in his familiar position, on his haunches in the technical area.

6' Nketiah drags a shot wide of Meslier's goal from the left of the box. Arsenal are looking perky so far.

4' Harrison takes an ambitious shot from range that cannons against an Arsenal defender. The hosts swiftly break but Nketiah can't find a teammate with his ball in.

2' Pepe darts down the right and Dallas nips in to block the Frenchman's cross. Arsenal get the first corner of the game which Leeds clear comfortably after blocking Holding's header.

1' The teams take the knee and Arsenal get this game going!

The players are out on the pitch at the Emirates. Arsenal are wearing their traditional red shirts and white shorts. Leeds are in their dark blue away kit.

This is the first meeting between Arsenal and Leeds in the EFL Cup since September 1979 when the Gunners won 7-0 at Highbury, their biggest ever win in the competition. Leeds have won just three of their 12 domestic cup ties against Arsenal historically. A victory here would definitely boost their morale.

Mikel Arteta makes nine changes to the Arsenal team that saw off Aston Villa. White and Smith Rowe lead a strong second string, while former Leeds loanee Nketiah leads the line. The rotation-shy Bielsa brings in four new players from Leeds' 1-1 draw with Wolves. 19-year-old defender Drameh makes his Leeds debut.

SUBS: Kristoffer Klaesson, Leo Fuhr Hjelde, Crysencio Summerville, Joe Gelhardt, Charlie Cresswell, Stuart McKinstry, Mateusz Klich, Sam Greenwood, Liam Cooper.

LEEDS UNITED (3-3-3-1): Illan Meslier; Cody Drameh, Pascal Struijk, Diego Llorente; Stuart Dallas (c), Kalvin Phillips, Adam Forshaw; Daniel James, Tyler Roberts, Jack Harrison; Rodrigo Moreno.

SUBS: Albert Sambi Lokonga, Alexandre Lacazette, Aaron Ramsdale, Folarin Balogun, Nuno Tavares, Bukayo Saka, Thomas Partey, Calum Chambers.

ARSENAL (4-2-3-1): Bernd Leno; Cedric Soares, Rob Holding (c), Ben White, Sead Kolasinac; Mohamed Elneny, Ainsley Maitland-Niles; Nicolas Pepe, Emile Smith Rowe, Gabriel Martinelli; Eddie Nketiah.

Marcelo Bielsa's Leeds may have lost some of their lustre from last season but are still a capable outfit. The Whites will be keen to make it into the EFL Cup last eight for just the second time in the last nine seasons. They last did so in 2016-17.

Fresh from defeating Aston Villa here 3-1 in the Premier League last week, Arsenal now welcome Leeds to the Emirates. The Gunners will have to be at their best to make it to the quarter-finals, having come unstuck at home against Premier League sides in three of the last five seasons.

Hello! Welcome to our live text commentary of this EFL Cup fourth round match between Arsenal and Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium.

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'A perfect example of f*ck the haters' - Brady and Dempsey join USWNT stars in saluting retiring Lloyd

Tom Brady, Clint Dempsey and Sam Mewis are among those that have paid tribute to Carli Lloyd as the U.S. women's national team star prepares to play her final game.

Lloyd will take the field for the final time on Tuesday night as the U.S. take on South Korea at Allianz Field.

The match will be Lloyd's 316th and final cap as she ends one of the most legendary international careers in the sport's history.

Tributes to Lloyd

Among those to pay tribute to the 39-year-old star are several of her USWNT teammates, including Samantha Mewis, Tobin Heath and Lindsey Horan.

Current U.S. men's national team star Brenden Aaronson, who like Lloyd grew up in New Jersey, also expressed his admiration, as did USMNT legend Clint Dempsey, who invited Lloyd to join him for a hunting, fishing or golf trip.

Joining the chorus of praise from soccer stars was a video message from legendary NFL star Tom Brady, who marveled at Lloyd's achievements throughout her professional career.

Lloyd's legendary career

When she steps off the field on Tuesday, Lloyd will bring an end to a career that is matched by few in international soccer.

Lloyd is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, a two-time Women's World Cup champion and a two-time FIFA Player of the Year.

Her performance in the 2015 Women's World Cup finale, a 5-2 win over Japan, etched her into the tournament's lore forever as she became the first woman and the second soccer player ever to score a hat-trick in any senior World Cup Final after Geoff Hurst. 

In total, Lloyd has scored 134 goals across her 315 career appearances for the USWNT while also serving as a leading face of the NWSL for years.

Further reading

  282 Hits

AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers: How to watch India vs UAE - TV listings and Online streaming

India are joint group leaders before taking on the hosts who lost to Kyrgyzstan in their opener...

The U-23 Indian national team face their United Arab Emirates (UAE) counterparts in Group E of the AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers at the Fujairah Stadium in UAE, on Wednesday.

Both teams are coming into the tie on the back of contradicting results, as India defeated Oman 2-1 and UAE lost to Kyrgyzstan by the same margin.

Here's how to watch India U23 vs UAE U23 from India. 

What time does the SAFF Championship 2021 game between India U23 and UAE 23 start?

Game India U23 vs UAE U23
Date Wednesday, October 27
Time 10 pm IST

How to watch India U23 vs UAE U23 on TV & live stream in India?

There is no TV channel broadcasting this match in India. However, fans stream the game online via the Indian FA's Facebook page. 

TV channels Online streaming
NA Facebook

India U23 vs UAE U23: Team news

The Indian boys, under Igor Stimac, started off on the right foot as they defeated Oman 2-1 as Rahim Ali and Vikram Pratap Singh combined well up top and scored a goal each.

If Vikram was the livewire going forward, Deepak Tangri and Narender Gahlot formed a strong central defensive partnership. Skipper Suresh Singh commanded the midfield, and the full wing-back pair of Asish Rai and Akash Mishra fared well too.

Meanwhile, UAE are coming off a loss to Kyrgyzstan. Khalid Al-Balochi had given UAE the lead against Kyrgyzstan at the stroke of half-time but the hosts weren't able to prevent their opponents from scoring twice towards the end. 

(Originally posted by Anselm Noronha)
  249 Hits

Zinedine Zidane's final club game - Who were his teammates and where are they now?

The French midfield maestro played his last game for Real Madrid in May 2006...
(Originally posted by Ritabrata Banerjee)
  246 Hits

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