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Zambia coach Milutin Sredojevic has stated he is proud of what he has achieved since taking charge of the national team despite their early exit from the 2021 Cosafa Cup.

Chipolopolo failed to make it to the knockout stage of the competition being held in South Africa after losing two of their Group A matches – 2-1 against Lesotho and 1-0 against Eswatini.

After winning 2-1 against Botswana, Zambia then managed a 0-0 draw against South Africa and it was not enough to guarantee them passage to the knockout stage, meaning it will be the first time in in the history of the tournament that they failed to advance.

What has been said?

“I am very proud of each moment I have spent as Zambia coach. I am present, whether I will be a coach it will be purely on the people that are in charge,” Sredojevic said as quoted by Lusaka Times.

“Supporters very often look at the game in a very emotional way. However, administrators are the ones to decide whether it is enough or it is not enough.

“I am pushing myself to the limits and telling myself that my conscience is clean. I have given my best.”

On losing their opening match against Lesotho, the former Orlando Pirates coach blamed his side for not being clinical enough with the chances created.

"Without wishing to be an excuse maker or blame shifter, we have felt the bitter side of football," Sredojevic said.

"We gave respect to the opponent but not over-respect, we have self-respected ourselves, we imposed ourselves very well, opened the game very well in the first half, it was supposed to be more than one goal.

"We created clear-cut chances that we did not convert, there were crucial moments in the game, instead of putting the game beyond the opponents’ reach, we conceded that goal."

"In moments of domination, in moments when we have been totally in control of the game and against the run of play, we conceded that goal that put us in a position that we needed to go back to the drawing board and analyse the second half and prepare very well for the game against Eswatini that is supposed to help us to bounce back."

Lionel Messi sent a heartfelt thank you video to a 100-year-old fan that has spent years making a note of every goal scored by the Barcelona and Argentina star.

The fan, named Hernan, has made a note of each goal on paper, where he writes down the date, opponent and the number of goals scored by Messi on the given day.

Hernan's grandson revealed his grandfather's hobby on social media in an appeal to the Barcelona icon and the dedication to chronicling Messi's career has earned him a thank you message from the man himself.

What did Messi say?

"Hello Hernan," Messi said in a video recorded for his 100-year-old superfan. "I’ve listened to your story. It’s crazy, I don’t have my goals written down like you have done it.

"I want to send you a big hug and I want to thank you for keeping track of that. I wish you the best. Bye!"

Staying with Barca

It's been a big week for Messi, who will still be riding high after lifting Argentina to a Copa America triumph.

The trophy is Messi's first on the senior international level, helping check one of the few boxes that had previously been unchecked in his illustrious career.

Goal can also confirm that Messi is set to sign a new five-year contract at Barcelona and take an incredible 50 per cent wage cut to remain with the club.

The decision comes after his previous contract came to an end after a year of uncertainty around his future, but that uncertainty is set to come to an end as he commits himself to Barcelona once again.

Further reading

Atletico Madrid star Saul has not decided on his future and has offers from many clubs, according to his agent.

The midfielder has been an integral part of Diego Simeone's team in recent years, making over 300 appearances in all competitions.

The 26-year-old still has five years left on his contract at the capital side, but has reportedly told the club that he wants to leave.

What has been said?

His representative, Joshua Barnett, has said no avenues have been closed off this summer, telling AS: "Saul will do with his future what is best for Saul.

"Nothing has been decided, Saul has as many options to stay as he has to leave."

Who is interested in Saul?

The Spain international has been linked to several top teams over the last year.

La Liga rivals Barcelona are the latest to join the fight to land Saul, according to recent reports.

The Catalan side are said to be open to bringing him in as part of a swap deal that would see Antoine Griezmann return to the Rojiblancos.

Manchester United were eyeing him last summer, while Liverpool have been linked after Georginio Wijnaldum left to join Paris Saint-Germain.

Bayern Munich are also among the clubs reported to be monitoring the Atleti star's situation.

Who have Atletico signed this summer?

On Monday, Atletico confirmed the arrival of Rodrigo De Paul from Udinese in a €35 million (£30m/$42m) deal.

They also brought in 20-year-old winger Marcos Paulo from Brazilian side Fluminense.

Meanwhile, Simeone and his coaching staff have signed new deals that will run until 2024.

Further reading

The deadlock between East Bengal and their investor Shree Cement continues as on Friday as the executive committee members of the club decided to not sign the final agreement of the joint venture which was to be formed between the two parties. 

The executive committee of the club met on Friday and discussed at length the differences between the initial term sheet which was signed and the final agreement as claimed by the club officials.

After the meeting, the executive committee issued a press release informing their decision which read, "Under the leadership of the club president (Dr. Pranab Ganguly), the executive committee has decided not to sign the final agreement which will force us to transfer the ownership, club ground, club tent, logo and the name of the club to the investors. The final agreement is insulting to the club members and they curtail the rights of the members. 

"We appeal to our fans to stand beside the club. Under the current circumstances, we have decided to discuss the matter with the former players of the club."

What is going on in East Bengal?

After Quess Corp parted ways with East Bengal in June 2020 after being the club's investor for two seasons, Shree Cement came on board as their new investor which facilitated the club's move to the Indian Super League (ISL).

They then proceeded to establish a joint venture named Shree Cement East Bengal Foundation, in which the cement giants held 76 per cent stakes while the club had 24.

After Shree Cement's arrival, a term sheet was signed by both parties in September 2020 in the presence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee who had played an important role in bringing the company on board as the club's new investor.

Based on the term sheet, the club’s sporting rights as well all its assets and properties (including intellectual) were reportedly transferred to the newly formed joint venture between the two parties.

Even though the term sheet has been signed, a final binding agreement of the deal is yet to be signed by the officials despite multiple reminders.

The club officials have remained firm on the claim that certain points in the final agreement are different from the term sheet that the parties had signed. The new management, on the other hand, claims otherwise. 

Shree Cement managing Hari Mohan Bangur also mentioned in the past that no meeting with the officials will take until they put pen to paper.

What is the Shree Cement management saying?

A  senior official of the Shree Cement East Bengal management informed Goal, that the management will only decide its next course of action once they receive an official letter from the club. The senior official further stated that according to the club, only the assistant general secretary, Rupak Saha is authorised to speak on behalf of the club. So Saikat Ganguly's statement in this matter cannot be taken into consideration.

"With preparations for the new season in full swing, Mamelodi Sundowns are delighted to announce the latest addition to the squad," a club statement read.

"Limpopo-born forward and Bafana Bafana international, Thabiso Kutumela has reached an agreement with Mamelodi Sundowns and signed a 5-year contract with the reigning DStv Premiership Champions.

"The 28-year-old striker joins The Yellow Nation after scoring 12 goals in 26 league starts with Maritzburg United FC this past season.:

"Kutumela’s high work rate, assists and goals culminated in him earning his Bafana Bafana call up for the AFCON qualifiers."

MORE TO FOLLOW...

Fifa Disciplinary Commission has sanctioned Serie A club Spezia from signing new players after they were found guilty of bringing several underage players from Nigeria to Italy.

They have been banned from signing new players for four transfer windows, starting from January 2022 till the summer of 2023.

In addition to the suspension, Spezia will also pay a fine of 500,000 Swiss francs.

The Eagles finished in the 15th spot during the 2020-21 Serie A season and the punishment come as a blow to former PSG star Thiago Motta who was appointed as new manager a week ago.  

"Following an investigation carried out by the FIFA Regulatory Execution Department, the Disciplinary Commission of the highest football body found that the La Spezia club violated Article 19 of the FIFA Regulations on the status and transfer of players (RSTP) by having brought several Nigerian underage footballers to Italy using a system designed to circumvent the aforementioned RSTP article as well as national immigration regulations,” read a statement on Fifa website.

“Taking into account Spezia Calcio's admission of responsibility for its serious regulatory violations, the FIFA Disciplinary Commission imposed a market blockade, nationally and internationally, for four sessions along with a fine of 500,000 Swiss francs. Spezia Calcio, therefore, will not be able to register new players for the next four market registration periods established by the Italian Football Federation.”

Two other Italian clubs were found guilty of the offence USD Lavagnese 1919 and Valdivara 5 Terre, and they were also suspended from signing new players until the summer of 2023 with a fine of 4,000 Swiss francs each.

It continued: “The FIFA Disciplinary Commission has also imposed a freeze on the market, nationally and internationally, for four registration periods and a fine of CHF 4,000 against USD Lavagnese 1919 and Valdivara 5 Terre, since these two clubs played a active role in the aforementioned system.

“The protection of minors is a fundamental objective of the legal framework governing the transfer system of players and the effective application of these rules is essential to ensure the protection of the well-being of minors on all occasions. The three football clubs were informed today of the decision of the Fifa Disciplinary Commission.”

Harry Kane continues to be linked with the likes of Manchester City and United but new Tottenham boss Nuno is reluctant to be drawn into a debate regarding the striker's future.

With major silverware proving elusive in north London, it has been suggested that a man who captained England to the Euro 2020 final this summer will seek a switch in order to land major honours.

Leading sides across Europe would welcome the opportunity to add such a prolific presence to their respective ranks, but Spurs have a 27-year-old striker tied to a contract through to 2024 and remain reluctant sellers.

What has been said?

Quizzed on Kane's future at his first press conference since taking the reins at Tottenham, Nuno told reporters: "Harry is our player. No need to talk about anything else. Period. 

"Now is the time for Harry to recover his energy and rest. When he returns is the time to talk. He needs to prepare for what's to come.

"I have no doubts in my mind. I have no doubts. What I wish is for Harry to recover well, to have a good rest and when he arrives he will feel that every one of us has to commit ourselves to become better.

"We are very ambitious, we are ambitious people and we want to do it well and [we have] no doubts on Harry on that."

Will there be movement at Spurs?

The rumours raging around Kane are unlikely to go away, with Premier League champions City seemingly leading the hunt for his signature.

Spurs are, however, working on retaining the services of key men while also bringing in fresh faces alongside them.

Nuno is eager to bolster his ranks, having inherited a squad from fellow countryman Jose Mourinho, and admits discussions are being held when it comes to recruitment.

He added: "We've been talking. Me, Fabio [Paratici] and Steve [Hitchen]. 

"We're aware there's a lot of work to be done. It's hard work to improve the quality we have. We need to find the right players. 

"On a daily basis we talk. Fabio and Steve, they do their job in the market. I do mine."

Is Nuno the right man for Spurs?

The 47-year-old boasts plenty of experience when it comes to coaching in England.

He walked away from a role at Wolves back in May, with a productive four-year spell at Molineux brought to a close.

Little time has been wasted in finding a new job and, after seeing several names linked with a vacant role at Spurs, Nuno is excited by the challenges ahead.

He added, with Tottenham entering the Europa Conference League this season alongside their domestic efforts: "I am here, this is where I want to be, I am so happy. 

"What we want is to make our fans proud and make our teams love their players, let's make our fans proud, to create a good atmosphere. 

"I'm totally positive that the fans are going to love it."

Further reading

Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Fabian McCarthy has urged the club's players to give their all against Al Ahly in the 2020/21 Caf Champions League final on Saturday. 

Amakhosi are set to become the third South African club to play in the final of Africa's most prestigious club football tournament after their Gauteng rivals Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates.  

A place in this year's Fifa Club World Cup final will be at stake when Chiefs take on Al Ahly in a once-off affair at Stade Mohamed V in Morocco's biggest city, Casablanca. 

Having faced Al Ahly in the 2001 Caf Champions League as a Sundowns player, McCarthy could only wish Amakhosi the best of luck against the Egyptian football powerhouse. 

"They must win and bring back the star and celebrate with us," McCarthy told Goal. 

"Yes, obviously they are the underdogs. But I would just like to wish them all the best. They should go out there and give their best, give everything they have and we shall see."

Al Ahly are looking to continue their dominance in African football having won a record nine Champions League trophies, while Chiefs have won one continental title which is the 2001 African Cup Winners' Cup.

McCarthy started both matches for Sundowns in the two-legged final against Al Ahly, who ran out 4-1 winners on aggregate and they clinched their third Champions League title. 

The former Bafana Bafana international, who spent five years with Chiefs, is optimistic about the Glamour Boys' chances of winning their maiden Champions League trophy. 

"I am confident and I am in the mood. I just want to see the referee blow the final whistle," he added.

"They must go there and do it for the Khosi nation [Chiefs supporters], for Bra K [Kaizer Motaung senior] and the country." 

Chiefs took on Al Ahly in the 2002 Caf Super Cup after the Soweto giants clinched the African Cup Winners' Cup, while the Red Devils had being crowned 2001 Champions League winners.

The Red Devils proved too strong for Amakhosi as they claimed a 4-1 win in a match which was played at Alexandria Stadium in Egypt and it remains the only meeting between the two clubs.

Tusker ended their recent bad run of results against AFC Leopards after they secured a 2-0 win in an FKF Premier League match at Thika Stadium on Friday.

The Brewers needed a goal in each half courtesy of Chris Ochieng in the 15th minute and Chris Onyango in the 50th minute to earn revenge against Ingwe, who had beaten them 2-1 in the first round meeting and also eliminated them from the FKF Shield Cup after a 1-0 win.

The Brewers went into the game missing six of their key players and coach Robert Matano opted to ring changes, keeper Emery Mvuyekure making a comeback to replace Robert Mboya while Humphrey Mieno was handed the role to partner Apollo Otieno at the heart of the midfield.

In the absence of Boniface Muchiri and Henry Meja, who are with the Kenya U23 national team taking part in the Cecafa tournament being held in Ethiopia, the veteran tactician gave starting roles to Chris Onyango and Chris Ochieng respectively.

On their part, AFC Leopards made two changes to the starting XI that managed to beat Bandari 2-0 in their last outing with Peter Thiong’o and Bienvenue Shaka starting while keeper John Oyemba returned to the bench alongside Hansel Ochieng.

It was Tusker, who started the game on a high note, as George Odhiambo almost gave them the lead in the eighth minute after dancing through the Ingwe defence but his final effort was weak to trouble Ezekiel Owade.

However, Tusker took a deserved lead in the 15th minute when Ochieng calmly controlled the ball inside the box before planting it into the bottom right corner past keeper Owade.

In the 22nd minute, Tusker suffered a blow after Odhiambo, who was having a good game from the right-wing, was injured while tussling for the ball with Eugune Mukangula, and despite medics trying to treat him, he could not continue as he was replaced by Jackson Macharia.

Tusker then created another chance in the 40th minute, Brian Marita dancing through the tight Ingwe defence to set up Rodgers Aloro, however, the latter’s left-footed effort was saved by Owade.

On resumption, AFC made a quick change as Hansel Ochieng replaced Harrison Mwendwa but it was Tusker who went 2-0 up in the 50th minute as Ochieng, who had scored the first goal, unleashed a shot which was punched back to play by Owade, but Onyango reacted quickly to tap it home from the rebound.

In the 61st minute, Ingwe coach Patrick Aussems was forced to make another change, injured Brian Wanyama coming out for Caleb Olilo while Tusker brought in Faraj Odenyi for the injured Mieno.

The win enabled Tusker to cement their place at the top of the 18-team table with 54 points from 25 matches while AFC will remain third on 43 points from 24 matches.

Tusker: Emery Mvuyekure (GK), Kevin Monyi, Sammy Miseh, Rodgers Aloro, Eugine Asike, Apollo Otieno, George Ogutu, Humphrey Mieno, Christopher Ochieng, Chrispinus Onyango, and Brian Marita.

Subs: Robert Mboya (GK), Hillary Wandera, Erick Ambunya, Jimmy Mbugua, Jackson Macharia, Eric Zakayo, Michael Madoya, and Faraj Odenyi.

AFC Leopards: Ezekiel Owade (GK), Collins Shivachi, Robert Mudenyu, Washington Munene, Isaac Kipyegon, Eugene Mukangula, Bienvenue Shaka, Brian Wanyama, Harrison Mwendwa, Peter Thiong’o, and Elvis Rupia.

Subs: John Oyemba, Yusuf Mainge, Omar Somobwana, Caleb Olilo, Dan Sunguti, Boniface Mukhekhe, and Hansel Ochieng.

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Whether you’re looking to avoid paying for a gym membership, or you simply want to add some extra at-home steps to your current routine, there are thousands of great items to help you with your fitness goals.

Exercising at home can come with some limitations though, mostly in regards to space. With that in mind, all of the products featured in this article have been chosen with size and compactibility taken into account, so there’s no need to worry about them taking up too much room in your home.

1. This set of five resistance bands are a great low-cost alternative to dumbbells for muscle strength training and even comes with a handy carry bag. 

Promising review: “With these bands, you're able to do bicep, tricep, back and shoulder workouts – they're incredibly versatile. While they won't give you the same level of burn as weights and dumbbells at the gym, I'm still able to do a complete workout and see impressive results. Given the versatility, the cheap cost, and the ease of use, these resistance bands offer a solid Gym alternative making them absolutely indispensable.” – hasty6

Get them on Amazon for £9.59

2. These adjustable dumbbells let you rapidly switch between weights from 2-24 kg while saving your home from becoming cluttered with multiple dumbbells.

Promising review: “These are solid, well made, and extremely easy to use with the gearing mechanism proving very reliable. They're also very compact and take up a minimal amount of room. The time you save in not interchanging weights does make your workout more streamlined and effective. Would strongly recommend!” – G W Baker

Get them from Amazon for £215.74

3. Or if you’re after more traditional dumbbells, these rubber hexagonal weights can be purchased individually and come in 20 different sizes.  

Promising review: “Great bit of kit; feels just like the dumbbells in the local gym that I use. I may buy another couple in the future. I would recommend them if you want some dumbbells for your home gym.” – B. Given

Get them from Amazon for £15.99 - £199.99

4. This dumbbell stand is perfect for storing all your weights in an orderly fashion.

Promising review: “This is nice! Instead of being scattered about the floor, this rack holds my weight set and some medicine balls perfectly!” – steve_oakland

Get it on Amazon for £77.50

5. This workout log book is the perfect solution for creating new exercise plans while easily tracking your daily routine. 

Promising review: “Really simple and easy to follow book. Allows the creation of workout plans for clients as the book is not super ‘personal’. Each workout can be written on a separate page. Lovely book. Lightweight, too.” – T. Saunders  

Get it from Amazon for £7.99

6. Not only does this pair of training gloves protect your hands from calluses while lifting, they also provide some much-needed wrist support. 

Promising review: "Great value, they are comfortable and provide enough padding to suit me on pull days. High-quality microfiber and reinforced stitching. No pain anymore when I lift weights and they really protect my wrists too. Highly recommend."  – Shawn zhang

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7. This abdominal roller wheel is great for training your abs at home and even comes with a foam pad to protect your knees.

Promising review: "I've used one of these at the gym and have to say that this is a sturdier version to the one that the gym has in place. The roller is easy to assemble and is robust once it has been assembled. The movement in the wheels is smooth and the grip is firm. Recommended to anyone wishing to train their abs/core."  – InTheDark  

Get it from Amazon for £11.99

8. This soft kettlebell is weighted with sand, meaning that you're at no risk of damaging the floor if you drop it too quickly. 

Promising review:  "Different from the more traditional hard type kettlebells this allows me to exercise with full confidence and it is a bit gentler on my floor if I accidentally drop it a bit too quickly or if I knock it with a knee while swinging it. The handle also allows me to have a firm and well-controlled grip and I feel that it's a far better option to the hard type variety." – Computer_lover  

Get it from Amazon for £33.00-£63.99

9. This Fitbit Charge 4 is an easy way to track your activity, heart rate, and more during your everyday routine.  

Promising review: “My first Fitbit and I’m obsessed. I’ve had it for four months now and love beating my step goals and I especially like the sleep tracker. I find the app easy to use and the device is accurate. I’ve moved more in the last 4 months because I'm tracking everything. I like the heart monitor and tracking my zones a lot too – really motivates me during workouts. I will likely be a Fitbit wearer for life now.” – Mel

Get it from Amazon for £99

10. This adjustable length skipping rope with tangle-free PVC-coated steel cable is a fun and effective way to tone muscle.

Promising review: “At the beginning, I wasn't sure whether this would meet my expectations but I got it anyway. It turns out to exceed all my expectations: comfortable handles, nice grip, the rope is strong and resistant yet light enough to just skip or speed jump. What I've found most useful is how easy it is to adjust the length, so if you train with someone else who's a different height you can quickly change the length to take turns. To be honest, I can't find any drawbacks. All in all, this is a great product.” – Daniel del Castillo

Get it from Amazon for £6.99

11. This aerobic step is great for incorporating into a full-body workout and can be adjusted to three different height levels. 

Promising review:  Promising review: “Really good quality, sturdy step. Spent ages looking at different ones and thought I’d need to spend a lot of money to get a good quality one, but read the reviews on this one and thought I’d give it a try. Really worthwhile purchase and amazing quality for the price!” – S. Murphy

Get it from Amazon for £29.99

12. This multi-purpose exercise mat protects your floor while cushioning your joints and preventing any unfortunate slips.

Promising review: “After a bit of a disastrous experience with a cheap gym mat (which slowly began to disintegrate), I purchased one of these. Really happy with it. It's nice, thick material, and after six months of relatively heavy usage (mostly cardio and stretches), it's showing no signs of wear and tear.” – AJW

Get it on Amazon for £20.97

13. This adjustable weighted vest that comes in four different starting weights will add extra intensity to any workout routine. 

Promising review: “Have been using it for a few months and suits my needs well. Weights are removable which is great to progressively increase the intensity of the workout or vice versa. Price is very reasonable for the quality and functionality. Definitely recommending!” – R5371

Get it from Amazon for £35.99-£74.99

14. This multi-purpose foldable bench can be used for weightlifting and a whole host of body workouts.

Promising review: "What a bench! Lightweight, very adjustable, sturdy & best of all...no assembly required. Definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a quality bench at a good price for a home gym." – Mike G.

Get it from Amazon for £89.99

15. This exercise ball can be used to improve your core stability and even comes with a foot pump. 

Promising review: “Exercise ball with multiple value plugs and removal tools AND a foot pump - brilliant. Does exactly what you need and has clear instructions on how to inflate and the sizes to inflate to. Can't ask for more than that.” – Adrian J. Kerry  

Get it on Amazon for £12.99-£20.99

16. These push-up bar stands reduce pressure on your wrists while also allowing for a better range of motion. 

Promising review: “Love them! They are quite light and really solid at the same time as well as easy to assemble. Totally recommend.” – Harris  

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17. This pull-up bar is adjustable and can safely fit most door frames without leaving a trace.

Promising review:” Being a bit of a health and safety-conscious person I wasn't keen on hanging from a bar that wasn't screwed to the door frame. The way this has been designed is awesome. In fact, the more weight you put on it, the more secure it becomes. Great bar and wouldn't buy anything else for this purpose.” –  Ploomy

Get it from Amazon for £39.99

18. This 2.2L water bottle guarantees that you'll always stay hydrated during your workout and beyond. 

Promising review: “Just a good water bottle that’s handy for my workouts and to make sure I get enough water. It’s leak-proof lid means I can throw it in my kit bag and not worry about everything getting wet or can carry it with the easy hold strapon."  – Rob Parker

Get it from Amazon for £13.99

19. This medicine ball is perfect for both beginners and advanced athletes and comes available in weights of 4kg, 6kg, 8kg, 10kg, 15kg, and 20kg.

Promising review: “Exactly like the one I use at the gym, the same quality and feeling. This has been ideal and in light of UK lockdown 2.0. The price point is fantastic in comparison to similar items.” – Zafron Jones

Get it from Amazon for £21.19

20. This free-standing punching bag is equally good for power training and stress relief. 

Promising review: “Light to get to where you need it in the house (up two flights of stairs for me). Lots of bolts to hold the punching bag to the base so you can be sure you won’t break it no matter how hard you punch. The padding has good resistance and there's a good swing to the bag which helps you get into a punching rhythm. Better than the swing of a normal punching bag.” – BnY

Get it from Amazon for £109.99 

21. And finally, this foam roller to help with pain relief after you've finished your workout. 

Promising review: ‘I'm new to foam rollers. I've had sports therapy for a back injury so understand the importance of sorting muscle knots. This is a very solid roller with two different textures. It does hurt but I feel better the next day. This roller is very tough – I'm not the lightest person but it holds my weight. Worth the money!” – R. Ford

Get it from Amazon for £10.99

Leandro Paredes admits he has "never seen Lionel Messi so happy" after helping an Argentina icon to break his international trophy duck at this summer's Copa America.

A six-time Ballon d'Or winner has finally got his hands on major silverware at senior level with his country, with an all-time great adding to the enviable collection of honours he has secured with Barcelona.

The relief as Messi hoisted a continental crown aloft was clear for all to see, with the 34-year-old now expected to commit his club future to Barcelona after reaching the end of his contract at Camp Nou.

What has been said?

Paredes sees an illustrious fellow countryman being in a good place, telling TyC Sports of a memorable triumph for those that have been crying out for something to cheer: "Not just us, but the 45 million Argentines wanted Leo to lift a title with the Argentine national team.

"Then, to contribute something to make it happen and to be there enjoying it with him was incredible.

"I’ve never seen Messi so happy and much less for 45 days. He really enjoyed being with us. It was like a graduation trip where we had a lot of fun. 

"We won, because we did it against everyone, and we reached the final. For us, it was a really incredible Copa America, a dream come true."

What did Messi say to Neymar?

After an epic final showdown between old adversaries Argentina and Brazil, two former Barcelona team-mates shared an emotional on-field embrace.

Messi and Neymar were then spotted chatting behind the scenes, with Parades also involved in those discussions as a current PSG colleague of a Selecao striker.

On what was said, Paredes added: "We are not talking about the final. We talked about how we were doing, how the family was doing, what we were going to do on vacation and what we had done in these 45 days. It was more of something else than the final itself. 

"With that you realise the kind of people the two (Messi and Neymar) are. Beyond being stars, they have the humility to sit down after such an important final and talk about other things."

Further reading

Mason Greenwood admits Wayne Rooney is the Manchester United legend that he would most like to get advice from, with the teenage forward eager to master the art of goalscoring.

The 19-year-old has time on his side, with the Old Trafford academy graduate still learning his trade and currently more at home in wide attacking berths than he is down the middle.

The expectation is, however, that the England international will become a central striker in time, and he would welcome an opportunity to pick the brains of United's greatest-ever marksman.

What has been said?

Greenwood was asked during a Q&A session on United's official website which icon he would like to speak with, and he picked the Red Devils' all-time leading goalscorer.

"The person I’d probably go to is Wayne Rooney. He’s done it all and is the leading scorer," Greenwood said.

"I’d probably just ask him, like not how he played because you can watch how he played, but any tips on how you can get in between defenders and how you can anticipate the game a bit more. 

"Obviously, he scored hundreds and hundreds of goals for United. That would be the little question I would ask him."

How many goals did Rooney score for Man Utd?

The former England international, who is also the all-time leading scorer for his country, spent 13 years with United after joining from Everton in 2004.

Rooney took in 559 appearances for United, claiming Premier League and Champions League titles along the way, and hit a record-setting 253 goals.

Greenwood has spent just two seasons as a first-team regular, however, he has already passed the 100 appearance mark and found the target on 29 occasions.

The bigger picture

Greenwood will face added competition for places in 2021-22, with United in the process of wrapping up a £73 million ($101m) deal for England winger Jadon Sancho.

Squad depth will be embraced by everyone at Old Trafford, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side determined to bring a five-year wait for major silverware to a close.

Greenwood added on collective ambition: "We need to win trophies and that's our aim at the end of the season.

"Like last season, we missed out slightly, but hopefully next season will be a lot better."

United finished as runners-up in the Premier League and Europa League last season, while also making another semi-final in the Carabao Cup and the last eight of the FA Cup.

Further reading

Chris Smalling holds no grudge against Jose Mourinho and is putting any past differences with the former Manchester United boss to one side amid much "excitement" at Roma.

One of the most decorated coaches in world football finds himself back in Serie A after taking in spells with Chelsea, United and Tottenham in the Premier League.

During his time at Old Trafford, Mourinho once questioned Smalling's willingness to play through pain - when the England defender was ruled out of action through injury - but the pair are pulling in the same direction after being reunited at Stadio Olimpico.

What has been said?

Smalling, who made 100 appearances for United across two-and-a-half years under Mourinho, has told BBC Sport of working with a familiar face: "Ultimately, if the manager wasn't speaking about you and didn't want you to play and push, that is when you need to worry because he has stopped caring about you, he doesn't want you involved and he doesn't want you to play.

"He is a born winner. He likes to push everyone to the limits. That is what he has done throughout his career and it has reaped results."

Will Mourinho be a success at Roma?

Mourinho was relieved of his duties at Spurs in April after failing to break their silverware duck, but he has delivered tangible success just about everywhere else he has been and intends to get Roma back on top.

He guided Inter to an historic treble during a previous stint in Italy and is being backed by Smalling to succeed at Roma after completing a shock return to management.

The 31-year-old centre-half, who is approaching his third season with the Giallorossi, added on Mourinho's appointment: "It was quite a surprise to a lot of us, but there was initial excitement from everyone.

"I knew the media would build up something about our relationship in the past. But from a personal point of view, it is a good thing because I have played under him.

"We have won trophies together. He made me captain in one of those finals - the 2017 EFL Cup final - as well, so having the chance to play under someone who you know is good, has been so successful and is so determined to win trophies at all costs is a positive.

"I know how big a deal it would be to bring a trophy of some sort to the club.

"Jose's history shows the club has picked the perfect man to do that."

Further reading

Harambee Starlets international Esse Akida has sealed a return to Europe after signing for Greek giants FC PAOK Thessaloniki.

PAOK have confirmed the signing of the former Thika Queens player and confirmed she has signed a one-year contract.

What has been said?

“PAOK and the women's football department announce the start of their collaboration with the athlete Esse Akida, for the 2021-22 season,” read a statement on the club’s official website.

“Born on 11/18/1992 in Kenya, Akida plays mainly as a centre-forward but can also be used as a winger.

“In 2018 she left her country and travelled to Israel where she signed for Ramat HaSharon FC, for the 2018-19 season, she played mainly as a full back, recording 19 appearances with four goals and five assists.

In February 2020, she transferred to Besiktas and a year later left due to the suspension of the Turkish championship due to the Covid-19 pandemic, without being able to become the first Kenyan to play in the Champions League. At that point, she returned home and signed for Thika Queens.

“She is an integral part and top scorer in the history of the Kenyan national team and has 33 appearances with the Starlets managing 15 goals and nine assists."

The statement continued: “In 2016 she won the Golden Boot at the COTIF Women's Tournament and the Golden Boot Shoe at the Cecafa Women's Championship. Finally, she scored the historic, first goal of Kenya in the [Africa Women's Cup] in 2016, against Ghana.”

What did Akida say?

On signing the deal, Akida said: "I am incredibly excited to become a member of PAOK's women's team. I had heard about the team when I was playing in Turkey. My dream is to play in the Champions League and I believe I will make it happen here.

“I come to one of the biggest clubs on the planet. PAOK is known in the world of football and I believe that we can achieve great things as a team. I will make the dream of the Champions League come true with the Club. I know there are big names in the event but nothing is impossible. We can shock some teams.

"I like the football culture that PAOK stands for, it is something we watch and read about often. I know that my adaptation will not be difficult because we all speak the language of football. My only goals are to help the team achieve its goals.”

Guest Feature | Lotfi Wada

Coming in second in our rankings of Africa's greatest teams are SC Zamalek, and their sublime side at the turn of the century who - for a time at least - were Africa's most successful club side in the continent's premier competition.

SC Zamalek entered the 1996 edition of the African Cup of Champions Clubs with what is known by the club’s fans as the ‘Dream Team’, composed of the likes of Khaled Ghandour, Hazem Emam, Ismail Youssef or Medhat Abdelhadi.

The White Knights fought tooth & nail in the semi-final against CS Sfaxien to punch their ticket for the final through penalties.

Facing Shooting Stars in a rematch of the 1984 grand final, Zamalek took a 2-1 loss from their trip to Ibadan and had scored what was proven to be a crucial away goal courtesy of a late strike from Tarek Mustafa.

One goal was all that separated Zamalek from a fourth African title.

Everything was going in Zamalek’s favour; taking the lead after half an hour of play through Abdelhadi, before Ayman Mansour doubled the White Knights' lead.

Cruising to the title, Zamalek were given a taste of their own medicine as a late strike from Johnson Ademola sent the game to penalties.

Late in the contest, in a well-oiled strategy, the Egyptians decided to sub starting custodian Hussein El-Sayed for his younger teammate Nader El Sayed ahead of the shootout.

The young keeper would go on to save two penalty kicks to liberate the Red & Whites’ fans.

Like the 1993 final, this audacious substitution paid off and Zamalek were on Africa's throne for the fourth time in 13 years.

Allowed to enter the Caf Super Cup & Afro-Asian Cup, Zamalek would go on to collect those two new international titles after beating, respectively, countrymen Arab Contractors & Korean giants Pohang Steelers.

Four years later, in the heart of Yaounde's den, and after a bumpy road to the final, Zamalek stood firm to win the Cup Winners' Cup with victory over Canon.

Finally, they had re-tasted their favourite glory—African dominance.

2002 would see Zamalek's return in the Champions League after a four-year hiatus, as a masterful campaign concluded with a final showdown against Raja Casablanca’s finest generation.

After a stalemate in the first leg at the Stade Mohamed V, they returned to the Cairo International Stadium with the wind in their sails as they sought an unmatched fifth Champions League.

Forward Tamer ‘Dunga’ Abdelhamid sparked the contest to light in first-half injury time, when he unleashed a shot which deflected off a Raja player beyond Mustapha Chadili to give Zamalek a crucial advantage.

Despite their probing, Raja failed to get the away goal that they needed to secure the title, and Zamalek had done it…ending their six-year wait for the championship.

It was a victory that wrote them into the history books as the most successful team in the competition’s history—at that time—although they were surpassed by eternal rivals Al-Ahly in the subsequent years.

After winning the Super Cup, Zamalek entered the 2003 Champions League among the favourites, only to be dispatched by Tanzanian giants Simba on penalties in the Second Round.

It remains one of the greatest shocks in the tournament history, with goalkeeper Juma Kaseja delivering an inspired performance that would haunt the White Knights.

In most unlikely fashion, the sun had set on a magical generation.

Felipe Anderson has left West Ham to return to Lazio, it has been confirmed.

The winger joined the Premier League side from Lazio in 2018 in a deal worth £34 million ($44m).

But the 28-year-old spent last season on loan at Porto and has opted to move back to Serie A this summer.

What has been said?

Anderson arrived in Italy on Tuesday to complete his return to the Italian capital and the club posted an image of him wearing a Lazio scarf on social media.

A statement on West Ham's website confirmed that a deal has been struck with Lazio for the Brazil international.

Although the Premier League side did not disclose a fee, Lazio are reported to be paying €3m for him.

How did Anderson perform at West Ham?

The attacker made 73 appearances all in for the London side, scoring 12 times along the way.

He was a first-team regular in his first season with the club, playing 40 games in all competitions.

But his playing time halved the following year and he then spent the 2020-21 campaign in Portugal.

Anderson made just 10 appearances for Porto after making the temporary switch last October.

Further reading

U.S. women’s national team legend Hope Solo believes there are no weaknesses in Vlatko Andonovski’s side going into the Olympic Games, meaning there should be no reason to lose in Japan.

Solo joined Goal ’s new podcast, All Of US: The U.S. Women's Soccer Show, to preview the upcoming tournament, which gets under way on Wednesday July 21.

The two-time Olympic gold medalist and World Cup winner also reflected on the controversy that occurred five years ago, when Sweden eliminated the U.S. at the 2016 Games and Solo was suspended by U.S. Soccer for comments made in the aftermath.

‘I don’t see one weakness in the USWNT’

“You look at the players, spectacular players across the board, I don't see one weakness on this side," Solo told Goal. "They shouldn't lose. They absolutely should not lose because of the talent on the field.

“The coach - everybody I know, everybody I've spoken to, players and coaches alike, have a lot of respect for Vlatko, but I think it's very important to keep in mind this is his first international tournament.

“What I have seen in my experience is it's not always about the coach. The coach, the manager, can bring those details, they can help teams win, absolutely. But I have also seen teams win without the organization skills of certain managers so I'm really curious to see how Vlatko is going to do in his first international tournament.

“I have heard and I've seen a little bit of the nerves, a little bit of a lack of organization going in to Japan, and I've seen it with every single coach I've ever played for before every major tournament. We have to remember, managers and coaches, they get nervous too and that's not necessarily a bad thing. It just means that they care as well.”

‘We were ill-prepared for Rio 2016’

The first opponent for the U.S. this summer will be Sweden, who knocked them out in the quarter-finals five years ago. In the wake of that defeat, Solo called her opposition “a bunch of cowards”, referring to their defensive game plan.

Reflecting on those comments today, Solo said: “I'm not going to apologize for being a poor sport. I was p*ssed. I was hurt. We're there to give it our all.

“Our team was ill prepared. We didn't show up to play great soccer - and Sweden, I wanted to go one on one against one of the best forwards in the world, Lotta Schelin. To see her drop back into her 18-yard box, it was tough because when you're playing for your country at the Olympics, it's about leaving it all on the line.

“You're playing with your heart and with passion and to see them drop back defensively, I was p*ssed, and so I ended up calling them cowards. But all was forgiven, we moved on and I have great relationships with the Swedish national team and my friends in Sweden.

Asked if she would do things differently if she could, Solo added: “I think you see male athletes all over the world be angry when they lose and make comments. I think I definitely took a lot of heat, unnecessary heat, for it.

“I made apologies to the people I needed to apologize [to]. The media, they ran with it. But no, I can look at myself in the mirror. At least I cared about losing. I had many teammates who went to party in Rio and didn't really care that we lost the game.”

The Sweden team that Andonovski’s side will face on Wednesday gave them a real scare back in April, almost beating them but for a late, controversial penalty securing the U.S. a 1-1 draw.

“They kind of have everything in their bag,” Solo said, asked what makes them such a challenge. “They're great on set pieces. They have strong goalkeeping. I don't know what it is. It's almost like they got in our heads and they gained some confidence in winning once.

“No disrespect to them, they're a great team with a lot of talent, but I don't have the answer on why they continue to make it very difficult for the United States, because as I said earlier, player for player, the United States should be winning every game.”

Further reading

Wayne Arendse has warned Kaizer Chiefs that they can expect Al Ahly to attack them in search of an early goal.

The Soweto heavyweights will be playing the Red Devils in the Caf Champions League final on Saturday in Casablanca, Morocco. While the defending champions will be targeting their 10th crown, Chiefs will be aiming at landing their first.

It is for the aforementioned reason the ex-Bafana Bafana defender has given Amakhosi a piece of advice on what to expect from his former coach Pitso Mosimane.

What is Mosimane's style?

"Obviously, Pitso respects Chiefs and he will be cautious a bit because he knows they [Chiefs] also have good players. But at the same time, knowing him, he wants to score," Arendse told Sowetan.

"The quicker he can get the goal, the quicker his team can settle because his teams always fight to score first. If they score first, Chiefs would have to come out and that would expose them at the back.

"Pitso [Mosimane] always wants to score, that is how he plays. He always thrives on trying to get the first goal. He imposes his game-plan and that is how he’s been playing all the years…

"He imposes it and forces his opponents into making mistakes. I don’t see Al Ahly sitting back, that is not Pitso's style."

Mosimane, of course, is no stranger to Kaizer Chiefs, having won the PSL title on five occasions during his tenure with Mamelodi Sundowns.

This includes two seasons ago - his final title with the Brazilians - when Amakhosi stumbled on the final day of the season which allowed Mosimane's charges to overtake them.

Who is the favourite?

"Pitso [Mosimane] knows what Chiefs are about, he knows their weaknesses and all that… he knows [South African] football whereas on the other hand Chiefs have probably watched a few games of Al Ahly and they don’t know the depth of each and every player," Arendse continued.

"It’s going to be a very tactical game. Obviously, the game being played at a neutral venue and it being only one leg, it’s anyone’s game. Anyone can win it."

Chiefs made it to the final after defeating Wydad Casablanca 1-0 on aggregate. Amakhosi won the first meeting away by a solitary goal before playing out a goalless draw at home.

The Red Devils made it to the final after a 4-0 aggregate win over Esperance de Tunis. They narrowly won the first leg away from home 1-0 before a 3-0 home victory secured their place in yet another final.

Further Caf Champions League final reading