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Man City suffer worst home record in 43 years to delay Premier League title party

Pep Guardiola's side still have one hand on a top-flight crown, but they have found clean sheets hard to come by at the Etihad of late

Manchester City are being forced to wait on their coronation as Premier League champions, as they once more paid the price for sloppy defending on home soil which saw their title-winning party being put on hold.

Pep Guardiola's side headed into a meeting with Chelsea on Saturday knowing that victory would be enough to see them secure a third crown in four years.

Raheem Sterling put the champagne on ice, but Sergio Aguero suffered an embarassing Panenka penalty miss before Hakim Ziyech and Marcos Alonso turned a heavyweight tie on its head.

City's defensive issues

The Citizens are capable of blowing opponents away with attacking firepower and still boast the best defensive record in the English top-flight this season.

They have, however, been finding clean sheets at the Etihad Stadium hard to come by.

Visitors to the blue half of Manchester have been able to pick holes in Guardiola's side, with four successive Premier League home games seeing City breached on at least two occasions.

That is the first time that has happened in 43 years, with Southampton, Manchester United, Leeds and Chelsea all finding the target twice - with a last shutout secured against Tottenham on February 13.

The bigger picture

Aguero's failure from 12 yards came back to haunt City against Chelsea - their upcoming opponents in the Champions League and a side that has already dashed their FA Cup dreams at the semi-final stage this season.

Alonso left it late to take all three points back to west London, with his bundled effort conjuring up unhappy memories for the hosts.

They also conceded in stoppage-time when being downed 2-1 by Leeds, with it unlike the Blues to leave themselves so open to late sucker punches.

City have earned a repuation down the years for kicking opponents while they are down and offering them no glimmer of hope when getting their noses in front.

They have, however, dropped eight points from winning positions in 2020-21 - their worst record on that front since 2008-09 (12).

Guardiola will be irked by that, while four home league defeats - twice as many as he has suffered in any other campaign in his managerial career - will also be doing little to lift his mood.

Further reading

Original author: Chris Burton
  501 Hits

'Ronaldo lives for goals & has always been a champion' - Kjaer remains a big fan of Juventus superstar

The AC Milan defender is preparing to face the Portuguese superstar in Serie A on Sunday and expects another tough test

Simon Kjaer says Cristiano Ronaldo has "always been a champion" and "lives for goals", with Juventus preparing to face AC Milan on Sunday.

A Portuguese superstar will head into that contest one effort short of reaching a century of strikes for the Bianconeri and with questions being asked of his ongoing presence in Turin.

Kjaer is hoping to keep the 36-year-old quiet in a heavyweight Serie A encounter, but admits to being a big fan of a five-time Ballon d'Or winner that has raised the bar of individual excellence over the course of a remarkable career.

What has been said?

Danish defender Kjaer has told Sky Sport Italia of Ronaldo: "It has always been a pleasure to play against him. Since the first time 11 or 12 years ago.

"He has changed a lot compared to before, but he has always been a champion and there’s no need to discuss it.

"He lives for goals. He can play a game a bit off, but if there’s a ball in the 90th minute, he does everything to score that goal.

"He is always there during the whole game, which is why he has always been at the top of football for the last 10 to 15 years."

Ronaldo's record at Juventus

An all-time great was lured away from a record-setting spell at Real Madrid in 2018.

He has won two Serie A titles while with the Bianconeri, but has seen Andrea Pirlo's side lose their grip on that prize this season.

Champions League glory has also proved elusive for a man who has previously conquered the continent on five occasions.

Failure in Europe has contributed to the reports of Ronaldo potentially moving on again this summer, as he approaches the final 12 months of his contract.

He has offered no indication that a new challenge is being sought, with his full focus locked on the present.

Ronaldo, who could still claim Coppa Italia glory in 2021, has hit 99 goals for Juve through 129 appearances.

Further reading

Original author: Chris Burton
  467 Hits

Man Utd-linked Sancho unsure over future but says he's 'very happy' at Dortmund

The 21-year-old England international is the subject of fierce speculation over a possible move to Old Trafford

Manchester United target Jadon Sancho admits he cannot say for certain what the future holds for him, while insisting that he is happy at Borussia Dortmund. 

Sancho has long been a top transfer priority for the Red Devils, but Dortmund have been equally stubborn in holding on to one of their top young stars. 

United are expected to renew their offensive for the England forward once the summer transfer window commences. 

What was said? 

“I don’t know about my future," the 21-year-old told ESPN on Saturday after netting twice in his side's 3-2 defeat of RB Leipzig. 

"I am very happy here in Dortmund at the moment. I love the club, the fans and the team.

"They gave me my first professional start. The fans motivate and push me to the limit.”

The bigger picture

Sancho's double was also welcomed at the Allianz Arena, as Bayern Munich clinched the Bundesliga title prior to their game against Borussia Monchengladbach thanks to the setback suffered by Leipzig. 

But BVB will not begrudge them their celebrations, as Saturday's victory could prove crucial to their hopes of making the Champions League next season. 

With two games remaining the club now sit in fourth place in the Bundesliga standings, leapfrogging Eintracht Frankfurt into the final qualifying spot. 

Frankfurt could regain fourth with a win on Sunday over Mainz, leaving the stage set for a gripping battle to reach Europe's top competition. 

Champions League football in turn would be a huge boost for the club in their fight to retain the likes of Sancho and Erling Haaland, who have been linked with some of Europe's top clubs thanks to their exploits in Germany

Further reading 

Original author: Goal
  629 Hits

Matchday LIVE: Manchester City vs Chelsea, Barcelona held by Atletico Madrid & more

Stay right up to date with Goal's live commentary coverage of the biggest games from around the globe
  414 Hits

'We are not playing Kariakoo Derby' - Yanga SC refuse to play Simba SC after impromptu changes

The 27-time champions insisted rules have to be observed and refused to wait for the new kick-off time

Yanga SC have refused to honour the Kariakoo Derby against rivals Simba SC in the Tanzania Mainland League and left the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Initially, the match was scheduled to be played from 17:00 but was pushed forward by two hours by the Tanzania Football Federation.

The federation stated it happened because of a rescheduling programme from the Ministry of Sports and the relevant authorities.

It is a move that has not been well by Timu ya Wananchi, who insisted they will stick to the initial plan.

"The Yanga management is disappointed with the pushing forward of the game against Simba from 5 pm to 7 pm," read a statement obtained by Goal.

"The changes are against the rules; article 15 (10) of the rules governing the game in the country states 'any changes regarding the kick-off should be communicated to both teams 24 hours earlier.'  

"Yanga management will not agree on the kick-off time communicated and will honour the initial time, 5 pm.  

"The management has further challenged the TFF to run the league in accordance with the set rules and guidelines."

True to their word, the team entered the pitch and warmed up, preparing to play at 17:00.

They then selected their starting xi for the game, who were Metacha Mnata, Adeyum Saleh, Shomari Kibwana, Bakari Mwamnyeto, Abdallah Shaibu, Mukoko Tonombe, Faisal Salum, Tuisila Kisinda, Saidi Ntibazonkiza, Yacouba Songne, and Michael Sarpong.

However, there were no match officials and the opponents, who had opted to abide by the time changes. 

With Yanga standing their ground, the organisers had no alternative but to communicate the game has been postponed. 

"The Tanzania Mainland League game against Yanga SC has been postponed," Simba posted on their official social media platforms.

"We take this opportunity to thank our fans who filled the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, ready to support us."

In the first round, Wekundu wa Msimbazi held the 27-time champions to a 1-1 draw, when Joash Onyango fouled Tuisila Kisinda and the referee pointed to the penalty spot, Sarpong rose to the occasion, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.

In the second half, the Kenyan international managed to head in a corner after the break to ensure spoils were shared.

Original author: Seth Willis
  508 Hits

LIVE: Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid

Thanks for joining our commentary this afternoon. Until next time, goodbye.

Barcelona are next in action against Levante on the road on Tuesday. Atletico take on Real Sociedad at home on Wednesday.

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid play out a goalless draw in their LaLiga clash at Camp Nou this afternoon. The result favours Atletico more than Barca, although Real Madrid will be the happiest team in the battle for the crown. Diego Simeone's men had the best of the first half, but were unable to break past Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Barca had same issue regarding Jan Oblak in the second half. Ousmane Dembele could have yet won the game late on for the hosts, only to head over the bar from close range. Ronald Koeman and his team need a lot to go their way to win the title now.

90' + 3' FULL-TIME: BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID

90' + 3' Koke sees his corner cleared by Alba and the referee ends the contest.

90' + 2' Suarez wins a corner off the body of De Jong. Atletico have one final chance from the resulting corner.

90' There will be two minutes of added time.

90' INCHES WIDE! Messi wraps his left foot around the ball and strikes it towards the top-left corner. Oblak is scrambling and watches as it travels just wide of the target.

89' Messi takes a touch and gets brought down by Kondogbia on the edge of the Atletico box. This could be a huge moment in the game.

87' That was the chance for Barcelona. They've not been at their best, but Dembele could have snatched the three points for the hosts there.

85' WHAT A MISS! Barca carve open Atletico down the left flank as Messi and Griezmann combine to release Alba. He lifts a cross into the box for Dembele to attack. However, he can only plant his free header over the bar with the goal gaping.

84' Suarez turns and looks for a one-two with Joao Felix, but the two players are not on the same page and the ball travels behind for a goal-kick.

80' Messi tries a cutback from the free-kick to Dembele that is intercepted by Joao Felix. However, the Argentine tracks back to stop the Atletico counter by dispossessing Carrasco.

79' Carrasco brings down Dembele on a run down the right flank. Messi will take the free-kick from a tight angle.

76' There has been no way through for either side in the contest. Both keepers and backlines have been stout enough. It's going to take something special to get the three points this afternoon.

74' Messi clips a ball over the top for Alba to chase and he send a pass into the path of Griezmann in the box. The Frenchman shoots first time, but he scuffs his effort straight Oblak.

72' Correa and Pique battle for possession in a tussle in the Barcelona box. Both players go down, but the referee favours the home side and awards a free-kick before Suarez smashes home the loose ball.

71' DISALLOWED GOAL! Araujo rises to head an Alba cross into the back of the net, but the defender is in an offside position. The flag is raised before he can celebrate.

69' Llorente takes possession in the left-inside channel and he bends a cross to the back post, but no one in a red and white shirt attacks the delivery before it travels behind.

67' CHANCE! Messi sends a sublime effort over the wall from the right edge of the box towards the bottom-left corner, but Oblak reaches with his right hand to palm it behind.

63' SAVE! Messi cuts back on his right foot and supplies a delightful cross into the box from the left flank. Pique attacks the delivery with a glancing header, but Oblak reads the danger to gather low to his left.

62' WIDE Moriba latches on to a deflected cross from Alba in the box. He pulls the trigger on his left foot first time, but Savic acts quickly to divert it wide of the target.

60' Saul nudges over Griezmann and has a nervy look at the referee. It's only a free-kick to Barcelona, but Saul has to be extremely careful.

57' Suarez pulls into space to latch onto Trippier's cross, but he steers his strike into the hands of Ter Stegen. However, the Uruguayan is offside anyway.

55' BLOCK! Moriba puts his body on the line at the back to deny Carrasco, who produces a blast on the half-volley. The Barca man holds firm to deflect it away from goal.

54' Correa makes a good run into the left-inside channel, forcing Alba into a desperate dive to poke the ball behind for a corner.

52' Correa performs his defensive duties well and earns his team a free-kick from a challenge from Lenglet.

50' It has been a positive start to the second half by both sides. A moment of magic or a mistake could decide this contest.

48' CHANCE! Correa tees up Suarez for a strike on the edge of the Barca box on the half-volley, but his effort just travels wide of the right post with Ter Stegen scrambling.

47' OVER! Messi curls a dangerous free-kick into the box for Lenglet to attack, but he just cannot make clean contact on the stretch and nods his effort over the bar.

46' We're back under way at Camp Nou.

Both teams have had their moments, but they have been a tad tense. With so much riding on the game it is understandable. The team that handles their composure in the second period could well be lifting the trophy on the final day of the season.

It's goalless at the break in the LaLiga contest between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou. The visitors have had decent opportunities in front of goal, but poor finishing and fine work from Marc-Andre ter Stegen has denied them the lead. Lionel Messi produced Barca's best opening, but saw his effort brilliantly saved Jan Oblak. It's all to play for in the second half.

45' + 4' HALF-TIME: BARCELONA 0-0 ATLETICO MADRID

45' + 2' Simeone will be frustrated with his side's finishing this afternoon. They've had the better of the opportunities, but have not been able to punish Barca.

45' There will be four minutes of added time.

45' OVER! Felipe snatches at a low cross in from the right flank from Correa following an Atletico corner and blazes a left-footed strike over the bar.

43' Carrasco is played into space down the left flank and he produces a marauding run into the Barcelona box. He cuts back to shoot on his right foot, but he gets crowded out and his eventual strike is blocked by Pique.

41' CLOSE! Messi weaves his way brilliantly through the Atletico defence, skipping past three challenges in a run from the right flank. He pulls the trigger on a left-footed strike that Oblak stretches and just manages to turn wide of the right post.

39' Messi tries to send Griezmann down the left-inside channel, but the Frenchman moves a fraction too soon and is caught offside.

38' Atletico are finding holes in the Barcelona defence and are looking the more likely side to break the deadlock.

37' SAVE! Ter Stegen does brilliantly to deny a powerful left-footed strike from Carrasco low to his right. His next action is more impressive as he springs to his feet to push the rebound behind away from the lurking presence of Suarez. Top keeping from the German.

34' CHANCE! Suarez takes a neat touch down the left flank and bursts into the box. He does not have a great deal of support so he goes for a strike from a tight angle that is repelled by Ter Stegen.

33' SAVE! Atletico stretch the Barcelona defence down the left flank as Koke releases Carrasco. The Belgian cuts a low ball back for Llorente to strike, but his scuffed effort is well saved by Ter Stegen with one hand before Pique clears the danger.

31' No Busquets is struggling. The Spaniard will have to make way here. He perhaps should not have returned to the field.

30' Busquets returns to the field for the home side, which will be a relief for Koeman as there is no direct replacement on the bench.

29' SAVE! A quick ball over the top from De Jong finds Griezmann in space on the edge of the Atletico box. The Frenchman shoots on his left foot, but sends his effort straight at Oblak.

28' Busquets has to leave the field temporarily for further treatment and a concussion test.

27' Savic and Busquets have a clash of heads, leaving the Barcelona midfielder down on the deck in need of treatment for a bloody nose.

26' Carrasco gets the better of Mingueza in the middle of the park and is pulled back by the Barca defender. The visitors get the free-kick.

25' Barca try to play their way through the Atletico backline on the edge of the box, but the red and white shirts hold a firm line to halt the home side.

22' Pique and Suarez collide for the second time of the game and the Atletico forward wins a free-kick inside the Barca half.

20' Barcelona are on their mettle at the back and Koke's cross is claimed by Ter Stegen at the back post with a solid reach.

19' CHALLENGE! Lenglet makes a vital intervention in the box to deny Correa. Hermoso makes a good run into the left-inside channel to latch on to Saul's offload. He works a low cross into the middle that Correa attacks, but Lenglet sticks out a leg to divert his strike wide of the left post.

16' Messi works the ball short to Dest to flick a cross into the box, but Felipe guides it away from Pique.

15' Hermoso brings down Dest on the charge down the right flank and gives away a free-kick in a dangerous spot.

13' Lemar is struggling with an injury and may have to make way for the visitors.

12' Carrasco has to be alert at the back to poke Messi's throughball for the run of Dest in the right-inside channel behind for a corner.

10' SAVE! Suarez lifts an effort over the wall from the resulting free-kick, but he curls his strike straight into the hands of Ter Stegen.

9' Suarez is brought down on the edge of the Barcelona box by Pique and the referee awards a free-kick to the visitors.

7' Barca opt for the short free-kick, which is disrupted by the visitors with relative ease.

6' Messi wins a free-kick just inside the Atletico half after being fouled by Hermoso.

5' Barca are trying to get their foot on the ball to establish a rhythm in their possession game in the Atletico half.

3' Lemar makes a break at the Barca defence and shoots with power on his right foot from the left-inside channel, but Ter Stegen saves his effort with ease.

1' We're underway at Camp Nou.

Barcelona have lost just one of their 21 last LaLiga games against Atletico Madrid (W14 D6), 0-1 in the reserve fixture this season. The last season the Blaugranas lost home and away in the league against Atletico was 2005/06 (1-2 at Vicente Calderon and 1-3 at Camp Nou).

Atletico have made two changes to their side that overcame Eibar in their lasting out. Felipe returns to the line-up in place of Gimenez, who drops to the bench. Simeone can operate with a back three or back four using the flexibility of Trippier and Carrasco. Koke returns to the fold to replace Kondogbia in the middle of the park alongside Llorente.

Barcelona have made only one change to their side that beat Valencia during the week. Mingueza gets the start in the back three alongside Lenglet and Pique in place of Araujo, who drops to the bench. Pedri and De Jong sit in behind Griezmann and Messi in the final third.

ATLETICO MADRID SUBS: Ivo Grbic, Jose Gimenez, Geoffrey Kondogbia, Lucas Torreira, Joao Felix, Saul Niguez, Renan Lodi, Hector Herrera, Moussa Dembele, Vitolo, Sime Vrsaljko.

ATLETICO MADRID (4-4-2): Jan Oblak; Kieran Trippier, Stefan Savic, Felipe, Mario Hermoso; Yannick Carrasco, Koke, Marcos Llorente, Thomas Lemar; Luis Suarez, Angel Correa.

BARCELONA SUBS: Ronald Araujo, Miralem Pjanic, Martin Braithwaite, Ousmane Dembele, Riqui Puig, Neto, Trincao, Sergi Roberto, Samuel Umtiti, Junior Firpo, Ilaix Moriba, Arnau Tenas. 

BARCELONA (3-1-4-2): Marc-Andre ter Stegen; Oscar Mingueza, Gerard Pique, Clement Lenglet; Sergio Busquets; Sergino Dest, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Jordi Alba; Antoine Griezmann, Lionel Messi.

Atletico have held top spot in LaLiga since the beginning of November and cannot afford to relinquish their advantage. Diego Simeone knows that a win over Barca would effectively end the Catalan club's late surge for the crown, therefore, there is plenty of incentive for Los Rojiblancos to raise the level of their game to defeat them on the road. Atletico beat Eibar last time out, recovering from a 2-1 loss to Athletic Bilbao. Only Atletico's best will be good enough today.

Barcelona bounced back from a surprise defeat to Granada by edging out Valencia last time out by a 3-2 margin. It was a close contest at the Mestalla, but Ronald Koeman's men were able to respond after going behind to take the three points courtesy of a brace from Lionel Messi and a strike from Antoine Griezmann. The Catalan club have a huge opportunity to surpass Atletico at the top of the table with a victory this afternoon to shake up the title race.

Good afternoon and welcome to the live commentary of the LaLiga clash between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou.

  435 Hits

LIVE: Bayern Munich vs Gladbach

6' Another goal for Lewandowski edges him closer to that all-time Bundesliga record of course. He'll need a few more, but he's getting closer to the magic number.

4' This could very easily become a party for Bayern - they've been know to blow opposition off the park when in the mood - but they are forced back onto the defensive almost from the restart. Lainer lashes an attempt towards goal but it is comfortably wayward in the end.

1' We are underway in this Bundesliga clash between Bayern Munich and Borussia Monchengladbach!

The teams have emerged and we are moments away from kick-off.

Since the start of 2011-12, Bayern have lost more Bundesliga games against Gladbach than versus any other side (8). The Foals are the only side that FCB do not have a positive record against in this timeframe (W8, D3, L8).

Subs: Hannes Wolf, Lars Stindl, Jordan Beyer, Oscar Wendt, Patrick Herrmann, Alassane Plea, Christoph Kramer, Tony Jantschke, Tobias Sippel.

BORUSSIA MONCHENGLADBACH (3-4-3): Yann Sommer; Matthias Ginter, Nico Elvedi, Ramy Bensebaini; Stefan Lainer, Denis Zakaria, Florian Neuhaus, Valentino Lazaro; Breel Embolo, Jonas Hofmann, Marcus Thuram.

Subs: Tanguy Kouassi, Bouna Sarr, Marc Roca, Alexander Nubel, Leon Goretzka, Javi Martínez, Serge Gnabry, Niklas Sule, Leroy Sane.

BAYERN MUNICH (4-2-3-1): Manuel Neuer; Benjamin Pavard, Jerome Boateng, Lucas Hernandez, Alphonso Davies; Joshua Kimmich, David Alaba; Kingsley Coman, Thomas Muller, Jamal Musiala; Robert Lewandowski.

There's just two changes from last time out for the hots, with Lucas Hernandez and Jamal Musiala drafted into the starting XI. Jonas Hofmann meanwhile is the only change for the visitors.

Their visitors, Champions League contenders this term, have enjoyed a less illustrious campaign however. Marco Rose's side face a fight to finish in sight of Europe this season - but victory over the champions would be a fine feather in their cap at the tail-end of a tough season.

Today's earlier victory for Borussia Dortmund over RB Leipzig made it a ninth consecutive title for the Bavarian giants, to help cap off Hansi Flick's final month at the helm before he departs. But the treble-winning coach would surely love to see his side mark the occasion with a fine game on home turf.

Hello and welcome to live coverage of the 2020-21 Bundesliga season, as newly crowned champions Bayern Munich look to celebrate their triumph in style against Borussia Monchengladbach at Allianz Arena.

  380 Hits

LIVE: Manchester City vs Chelsea

10' It's still all City at the moment and they're patiently playing out from the back to try and open up some space in behind Chelsea. Cancelo lifts a pass over the top to Jesus, who flicks it on, but there's no one behind him to bring it down.

8' Sterling is crowded off the ball, but he manages to touch it through to Aguero and his shot ends up bouncing off Jesus' back on the edge of the box. It falls for Mendy though and he drills a low shot across goal, but it's always going wide.

6' Ederson plays the ball out to Dias on the right and he takes his time to try and pick out a pass until Ziyech closes him down. The defender ends up backing himself into a corner but just manages to get out of trouble.

4' Christensen completely misses his clearance and Torres runs onto it behind him before driving into the box. The Spaniard hits the shot just before Rudiger gets back, but he fires it high over the crossbar.

2' City are pressing Chelsea high up the field in the opening minutes of the game and are making it difficult for the visitors to get out of their own half. Azpilicueta chooses to go long for Werner but overhits the pass and Ederson sweeps it clear.

1' Werner gets the game underway for Chelsea! 

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

Victory for City would see them win the Premier League title for the fifth time, with only Manchester United (13) lifting the trophy more since its foundation in 1992.

Thomas Tuchel makes five changes to his side after their win over Real Madrid last time out, bringing in James, Ziyech, Gilmour, Alonso and Pulisic. Jorginho and Havertz drop to the bench, with Mason Mount, Thiago Silva and Ben Chilwell all being rested.

Pep Guardiola rotates his squad again and makes nine changes to the team that beat Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday, with only Ederson and Dias retaining their places. Aguero, Sterling and Jesus are brought in to lead the line, while De Bruyne is left out of the squad due to not being fully fit.

CHELSEA SUBS: Jorginho, Emerson, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Olivier Giroud, Kai Havertz, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Valentino Livramento, Tammy Abraham, Kurt Zouma.

CHELSEA STARTING XI (3-1-4-2): Edouard Mendy; Cesar Azpilicueta, Andreas Christensen, Antonio Rudiger; N'Golo Kante; Reece James, Hakim Ziyech, Billy Gilmour, Marcos Alonso; Christian Pulisic, Timo Werner.

MANCHESTER CITY SUBS: Ilkay Gundogan, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez, Zack Steffen, Eric Garcia, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Fernandinho, Kyle Walker.

MANCHESTER CITY STARTING XI (3-3-3-1): Ederson; Nathan Ake, Ruben Dias, Aymeric Laporte; Joao Cancelo, Rodrigo, Benjamin Mendy; Ferran Torres, Sergio Aguero, Raheem Sterling; Gabriel Jesus.

This is the first of two meetings between the clubs this month after they both booked a place in the Champions League final earlier this week. And City could wrap up the Premier League title this weekend with a win today. If they draw or lose though, they'll have to hope Manchester United don't better their result tomorrow. City have lost just one of their last seven in all competitions (W6) though that was a defeat to Chelsea in the FA Cup final, which was a win that set the Blues on a run of six games unbeaten in all competitions.

Hello and welcome to live coverage of the Premier League meeting between Manchester City and Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium!

  425 Hits

Lingard told he can become a 'God' like Di Canio at West Ham as Noble airs transfer hope

The England international has been enjoying a productive loan spell in the East End from West Ham, with a permanent deal being mooted

Mark Noble is hoping to see Jesse Lingard remain at West Ham beyond the end of his loan spell from Manchester United, with the England international told he can join Paolo Di Canio in securing "God" status with the Hammers.

The 28-year-old playmaker has been endearing himself to the East End natives with his efforts since arriving in London, with nine goals and three assists recorded across 12 appearances.

There is no purchase option in his current deal, but Noble is eager to see David Moyes explore the option of keeping a rejuvenated performer in his current surroundings.

What has been said?

Hammers captain Noble told the Daily Mail of Lingard: "He’s been phenomenal. 

"When you’re playing well, it’s like autopilot. When your confidence is gone, that’s a bad place to be as a footballer. But he looks so comfortable in a West Ham shirt.

"It’s a tough one. You know what it’s like — money is important but when you’re playing well and enjoying your football, nothing else matters. 

"We’d love to have him back. We’ve got four games to go, and we need four more big ones from him."

Will Lingard want to stay?

Regular game time had been in short supply for Lingard in Manchester before he took the decision to seek a winter switch.

Confidence has returned to his game with the Hammers, with Moyes prepared to show the kind of trust in him that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer seemingly lacked.

West Ham would welcome the opportunity to put a permanent deal in place, with Lingard having shown that he boasts the potential to become another cult hero for them.

Noble admits as much, saying of a current colleague and his ability to fill Di Canio-sized shoes: "I’m sad Jesse hasn’t witnessed West Ham fans. 

"You know what it’s like when they love someone. It’s madness. They idolise him, like they’re a God."

Further reading

Original author: Chris Burton
  465 Hits

World Cup team of the round: Group stage round 3

The official ruled out a goal that would have helped the visitors get a positive outcome away

Ugandan Premier League Jane Mutonyi has been banned for one month by the Referees Disciplinary Panel for wrongfully ruling out a goal in the Police FC against Wakiso Giants match played on April 28 at Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium.

The hosts won 3-1 after Joshua Lubwama scored a brace in that particular game, with Viane Sekajugo scoring the third while the Cops scored theirs courtesy of Herman Wasswa.

With the score at 3-1, Wasswa managed to beat the defenders and the goalkeeper for his team's second in the 84th minute but was shocked when Mutonyi ruled it out, stating the ball had gone out of play which was not the case.

She advised centre referee George Nkurunziza against allowing the goal to stand, something that was not taken lightly by the Police players and officials. Later reviews proved the official was wrong.

As a result, disciplinary proceedings were opened against Mutonyi and she was found guilty, and as result, she has been banned from officiating for one month.

The ban took effect on May 7 and will expire at the lapse of 30 days.

Meanwhile, Express FC are aiming at completing a double over Police when they meet on Saturday in their UPL assignment at Wankulukuku.

Head coach Wasswa Bbosa concedes it will not be easy, but he has exuded confidence they will get maximum points from the Cops after 1-0 in the initial meeting.

"We shifted our focus to the league immediately after we advanced to the cup quarters," the tactician stated.

"We respect Police because they are a decent side with a good coach but the target remains winning all our home games to keep in reach with the table leaders."

On his part, forward Mustafa Kiragga maintained their focus is to win to make their home ground a fortress for teams and they have prepared well to beat Police.

"Advancing to the quarter-finals of the Uganda Cup was a major boost for the team and as we prepare to face Police tomorrow [Saturday], the focus is on getting maximum points,” Kiragga told the same portal.

"We have always wanted to make home a fortress and the game against Police won’t be any different, the boys have prepared well and I am positive we shall win."

 

Original author: Seth Willis
  121 Hits

Ange Postecoglou confirms Alistair Johnston 'definitely on Celtic's radar'

A prolific Argentine frontman is set to become a free agent this summer and has seen a switch to Catalunya mooted for some time

Sergio Aguero would be "a great signing for Barcelona", says Rivaldo, with a Blaugrana icon hoping to see another Argentine forward lining up alongside Lionel Messi next season.

Manchester City's all-time leading goalscorer is set to drop into the free agent pool, with a Premier League legend preparing to take on a new challenge at the age of 32.

A switch to Camp Nou has been mooted for some time and Rivaldo - who has spoken in the past about the impact a deal for Aguero could have on Messi signing a new contract - is hoping to see a bargain agreement put in place by Barca.

What has been said?

Rivaldo has told Betfair: "Rumours tell me that Barcelona are negotiating with Sergio Aguero to sign him when he leaves Man City at the end of season.

"He's been magnificent at City and, at 32, I'm sure he will be ready to compete with Barcelona. 

"He still has a lot of football to play and would be a great signing for Barcelona, especially coming for free at a moment when our club is having some issues for financial reasons."

What has Aguero had to say?

The experienced South American is aware of the speculation he is generating, with gossip inevitable following the revelation that he is to sever ties with City.

He has heard all about the Barcelona talk, but has sought to play it down for now as no decision on his next move has been made.

Aguero has said: "They are all writing Barca, Barca, Barca.

"Let's hold on a little, have a look. Stop. We are still with City."

Further reading

Original author: Chris Burton
  122 Hits

Manchester United vs Sevilla: Complete head-to-head record

The federation states they have received the directive from the government consequently altering the initial plans

Tanzania's Ministry of Sports has changed the kick-off time for the Premier League encounter pitting Simba SC and Yanga SC on Saturday.

According to a statement obtained by Goal, the Kariakoo Derby will now start at 19:00 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam. TFF and the Premier League board had planned to see the game start at 17:00 but given the move by the government, the time stands changed.

"TFF would like to inform stakeholders that the Premier League game pitting Simba SC and Yanga SC will kick-off at 19:00 EAT unlike the initial plan which had placed the kick-off time at 17:00 EAT," the statement read.

"TFF has received the rescheduling programme from the Ministry of Sports and the relevant authorities and clubs have already been accordingly informed of the new plan."

The move should be good news for the fans who are planning to attend the stadium given that they will now have more time to organise themselves.

The TFF had stated supporters will not be allowed into the facility an hour before the kick-off but the directive has given them more time to do so.

“We have always witnessed fans streaming into the stadium when the match has already started. There is going to be an end to that tradition on Saturday and the gates shall be closed at 4:00 pm,” TFF's media officer Clifford Ndimbo said in a separate interview.

“The exception will be applied to those who will be in the line already but anyone who will not be around there will not be allowed entry thereafter.”

Yanga’s forward Tuisila Kisinda – who impressed in his Kariakoo Derby debut – is hoping to have a good outing against Wekundu wa Msimbazi who are at the top of the table with two games in hand.

“I am now in fine form for the game as we make last preparations for the tough game. I am not under any pressure going into the derby,” Kisinda said.

“In my Kariakoo Derby debut, I wanted to know what kind of a game it was and in this one, I think I will not be under pressure at all. What is important is to be at my optimal level in order to help my team.

“I hope to do a great job against Simba than I did in the two previous games.”

The arch-rivals shared points in the first round courtesy of a 1-1 draw in November 2020.

Original author: Kiplagat Sang
  137 Hits

Barcelona predicted lineup vs Real Madrid - La Liga

The Brazilian has ended months of speculation about his future after his committal to a new long-term deal with the Ligue 1 heavyweights

Neymar has signed a new contract with Paris Saint-Germain that will take him through until 2025 at Parc des Princes, the club has confirmed.

The Brazilian, who moved to the Ligue 1 heavyweights from Barcelona in 2017 for a world-record transfer fee, has ended months of speculation over his future after renewing terms with Mauricio Pochettino's side.

It represents a major boon for the French outfit, who have dominated domestic football and seen increased European success since his arrival from Camp Nou four years ago.

What has been said?

"It is a great happiness to extend the adventure at Paris Saint-Germain," Neymar told the club's official website. "I am very happy in Paris.

"It is a real pride to be part of this group, to work with these players, this great coach and to be part of the history of this club. These are things that make me believe even more in this great project.

"Here I have grown as a person, as a human being and as a player, too. So I'm very happy to extend and I hope to win many more trophies here."

President Nasser Al-Khelaifi added: "The centre of gravity of our ambitious project to grow PSG lies in the heart, the talent and the total involvement of our players.

"I am proud to see Neymar reaffirm today his long-term commitment, until 2025, to the Paris Saint-Germain family, whose fans he will continue to delight.

"We are very happy to see him continue to be part of our project and to be by our side for many more years."

Neymar in numbers

The 29-year-old has played over 100 games for les Parisiens since he made a €222 million (£193m/$270m) switch from Spain to France, helping to significantly raise the profile of PSG as they looked to establish themselves among Europe's historic elite.

In his first three seasons, he helped the club achieve two domestic trebles and a further double, winning the Ligue 1 title in each of those campaigns, while continuing to bolster their continental standing.

Brazilian hands PSG boost

The announcement that Neymar will remain at the club beyond the end of his previous deal will undoubtedly please both club powerbrokers and fans, particularly as they look to take the final step to continental success and claim the Champions League.

Last season's final defeat to Bayern Munich represented the nearest that the club have come to the coveted trophy, and only fell short in the semi-finals this year against another well-financed club seeking a maiden triumph in the form of Manchester City.

As speculation continues to swirl over Kylian Mbappe's future in the capital, however, the news that the Brazilian is committed through the next half-decade - well into the autumn of his career - is a major boost for Pochettino, as he continues to attempt to build his own vision following a frustrated half-season at the helm.

Further reading

  119 Hits

Fulham vs Chelsea: Why Anguissa & Lookman can outclass Ziyech & Mendy

A man who has spent time as manager of Bayern and Borussia Dortmund can see a prolific Norwegian attracting further interest

Bayern Munich will step up their interest in Erling Haaland the longer he remains in the Bundesliga, says Ottmar Hitzfeld, with the Borussia Dortmund striker considered to be an obvious successor to Robert Lewandowski.

Those at the Allianz Arena have history when it comes to luring top talent away from domestic rivals.

Haaland will already be on their radar, as transfer talk rages around him heading towards another window, but an extended stay with BVB is being mooted for the prolific 20-year-old as he continues to weigh up his options.

What has been said?

Hitzfeld, who has spent time in charge of Bayern and Dortmund, has told Funke Mediengruppe of Haaland: "You have to consider yourself lucky to see players like that playing in the Bundesliga. 

"It would be a big challenge for Haaland to leave the Bundesliga and assert himself abroad.

"But if he stays in Dortmund a little longer, I assume that he would then be of interest at Bayern again."

Hitzfeld added on the speculation surrounding a striker with 37 goals to his name this season: "I hope that Dortmund can keep their players for a long time so that there is competition. 

"But you also have to wonder what happens when Lewandowski stops."

Any other business at Bayern?

Change is on the cards at the Allianz Arena, with Hansi Flick preparing to walk away from his managerial post at the end of the 2020-21 campaign.

He is being billed as a potential successor to Joachim Low with the Germany national side, with Hitzfeld seeing a man who led Bayern to treble glory in 2019-20 as an obvious choice for that role.

He said on Flick: "It would be understandable that he would now like to take the chance to become national coach. 

"The door that has now opened might be closed in two or three years.

Flick will be replaced at Bayern by Julian Nagelsmann, with Hitzfeld saying the 33-year-old current RB Leipzig boss is "no risk, and Bavaria is no risk for Nagelsmann". 

Further reading

Original author: Chris Burton
  148 Hits

PSG vs Benfica: How to watch on TV live stream, team news, lineups & prediction

According to the federation official, Muslim players will be allowed to observe their evening prayer that sets the breaking of their fast

Tanzania Football Federation media liaison officer Clifford Ndimbo has revealed how the Ramadan regulations will affect the Kariakoo Derby pitting Simba SC and Yanga SC.

Ndimbo revealed the players will be allowed to shortly observe the regulations of Ramadan. The evening prayer will be conducted at 6:34 pm when the May 8 match will be ongoing - as Muslims break their fast.

“We understand that some of the players are in Ramadan and we will accordingly give them a short break to pray when the time comes,” explained Ndimbo. “So, people should not be surprised by the unusual act of giving players time to obey the obligations of their faith.”

Another change of tradition will see fans barred from entering the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium one hour to kick-off. Fans have also been advised to head to the stadium using Taifa Road as other roads will not be accessible.

“We have always witnessed fans streaming into the stadium when the match has already started. There is going to be an end to that tradition on Saturday and the gates shall be closed at 4:00 pm,” added the official.

“The exception will be applied to those who will be in the line already but anyone who will not be around there will not be allowed entry thereafter.”

Ndimbo further added that officials who are not part of the technical bench will not be allowed in the dressing room as has been the case before.

“There have always been the officials who visit dressing rooms after the game and that will not be allowed this time around,” he concluded. “We all know that there are members of the technical bench that are allowed to enter the dressing rooms.”

The Kariakoo Derby has been played 105 times since 1965 and Yanga would be keen to beat Simba and maintain their dominance in the derby since they have won 37 games compared to Wekundu wa Msimbazi’s 31.

37 draws have been registered between the sides while Simba have kept 32 clean sheets and Yanga have registered 43 of them. A win for the Wekundu wa Msimbazi will help them widen the gap against Timu ya Wananchi to seven points.

Original author: Kiplagat Sang
  214 Hits

Kaizer Chiefs to discuss potential fan protest in specially arranged club meeting

Amakhosi have been enduring a difficult season in which they are struggling to secure a top-eight spot and this has angered their fans

Kaizer Chiefs have stated they will meet next week to discuss threats by fans on social media to march to Naturena in protest against poor Premier Soccer League results.

According to posters on social media, May 14 is the suggested date for the protest under the hashtags #KaizerChiefsProtest, #KaizerChiefsSupportersProtest and #KaizerChiefsMarch.

Amakhosi corporate communications manager Vina Maphosa says they are aware of the online campaign and will discuss the issue at a special meeting. 

“No reaction. We have a meeting about it next week, so I don’t have anything to share with you at the moment,” said Maphosa as per Sowetan Live.  

“I don’t want to engage on it. I haven’t got a directive to engage on it until we meet on it next week. We will comment after that meeting. We are saying we are aware of it.” 

Chiefs are currently ninth on the Premier Soccer League table with three points off the top half. 

They have failed to win their last three league games against relegation-threatened sides Chippa United and Bloemfontein Celtic, before Tuesday’s defeat by Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila which ended many of their fans' patience. 

With four league games remaining, the Soweto giants have what looks like a difficult remainder of their campaign as they continue with their top-eight bid. 

They host Swallows FC next Wednesday, before traveling to basement side Black Leopards who are fighting against relegation. 

In-form Golden Arrows will then be up next before they visit TS Galaxy for their final match of the season.

Original author: Michael Madyira
  444 Hits

'Haaland will stay at Dortmund one more year' - Sahin tips Norwegian star to emulate Lewandowski

In an exclusive interview with Goal, the midfielder discusses the future of BVB's star striker

Nuri Sahin has tipped Erling Haaland to remain at Borussia Dortmund for at least one more year, and believes the Norwegian star has the potential and mentality to match Robert Lewandowski’s achievements in the game.

Haaland’s future has been the subject of much debate, with the 20-year-old having enjoyed an incredible first year in Germany.

Since joining Dortmund from Salzburg in January 2020, he has scored 53 goals in 56 appearances. Little wonder he has been linked with the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City, then. 

His agent, Mino Raiola, caused a stir recently when suggesting that Dortmund would be tempted to sell this summer, but the stance from the club is that Haaland will be going nowhere until at least 2022. 

And Sahin, who made more than 200 appearances across two spells at Signal Iduna Park, believes Dortmund will stick to their guns.

What’s been said? 

Speaking exclusively to Goal, the Turkey international said: “As a fan of Dortmund, I hope he will stay! But it’s his decision. There are many people around him who are speaking and helping, showing him the pros and cons of staying at Dortmund, but in the end he will decide if he will stay or not.

“He still has a contract for a few more years, and if Dortmund don’t want to let him go, they will make that clear.

“I don’t see a big problem, to be honest. I think Dortmund will get the Champions League and Haaland will stay at least one more year, and then everyone will be happy!”

‘He can get to Lewandowski’s level’

Sahin, of course, played alongside another great Dortmund striker in Lewandowski, watching in awe as the Poland star established himself as one of the world’s best.

And the 32-year-old says the signs are that Haaland has what it takes to reach a similar kind of level in the future.

He said: “He can get there. But the thing is not to get there, but to stay there. This is what Lewandowski has done. 

“Let’s speak about the last 10 years; there was [Luis] Suarez, [Sergio] Aguero, Harry Kane, Lewy and [Karim] Benzema, and they stayed at that level. 

“Haaland can make it, for sure. He has huge potential, and what I heard from Dortmund is that he is training really well, that he’s very professional. 

“That mentality is key. People at Dortmund say they never saw a guy as professional since Lewandowski. I don’t know Haaland, but I saw Lewy, and every day you could see in his eyes that this guy wants to win everything. 

“If Haaland has that, then he can absolutely make it.”

‘Sancho is like Mbappe and Neymar – you’d pay to watch him’

Sahin also spoke glowingly about another in-demand Dortmund prospect, Jadon Sancho, whom he played with as a 17-year-old.

“He’s a player you would pay to watch,” he said. “You watch him in these 1v3 situations, and he comes out with the ball! He’s a joy.

“He’s the same as Neymar and [Kylian] Mbappe. These kind of players make the fans pay for the tickets, make the kids want to have them on their shirt. 

“He came to Dortmund at 17, and it was crazy to see his ability. It was a brave decision from him, but Jadon and his family thought that it was the best thing for him to leave his comfort zone, and it worked for him.

“He hasn’t had the most spectacular season, maybe, but his numbers are still there. It is normal at this age to have ups and downs. He had a crazy year last year, and people naturally will always want to see that level, but he is back now. 

“I watched a few minutes of the last match, and he is back!”

Further reading

Original author: Neil Jones
  539 Hits

Kerr: TTM must replicate Kaizer Chiefs form against Chippa United in Nedbank Cup final

The British tactician calls on his players to put up a good show when they face Vladislav Heric’s Chilli Boys in the cup final

Tshakuma Tsha Madzivhandila coach Dylan Kerr has called on his players to put up a good show as they did against Kaizer Chiefs when they face Chippa United in the final of the Nedbank Cup on Saturday.

The former Gor Mahia tactician will lead his side at the Free State Stadium and the final comes after they defeated Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 in a midweek Premier Soccer League clash.

While admitting Cup games are different from league matches, the British tactician has called on his players to put up a fight in the final and also confirmed they don’t have injury concerns heading into the clash.

“I hope we can replicate or surpass our performance against Chiefs in the cup final. I told the players it is about winning the trophy and not financial gain. It is a cup final, so league form goes out the window,” Kerr told Citizen.

“The players are excited and want to impress. This week we have had training sessions with no injures, which is almost unheard of. It is an important game for the club and players, it could be the one and only chance for these players to reach a cup final. Our opponents have got a couple of good results behind them and have a new coach in Vladislav [Heric].”

Kerr has also admitted they have not trained enough for the fixture owing to their involvement in the league but maintained they have a food chance to win the final.

“We have the disadvantage of one day’s fewer training because we played on Tuesday but we have put in a good performance, which was very successful,” Kerr continued.

“We must look forward to the game and create history. I think this is the first time the Nedbank Cup would have been won by a team in the Limpopo province.

“I know how some people are going to feel on Friday night when I announce the team but at the same time I am hoping that those who are going to be picked will appreciate being in the line-up against a team that has not done as well in the league as we are.”

TTM stunned overwhelming favourites Mamelodi Sundowns on penalties in the semi-final to earn the right to take on Chippa‚ who overcame GladAfrica Championship side, Pretoria Callies, in the other semi-final.

Original author: Dennis Mabuka
  529 Hits

'I did not play with Messi' - Eto'o loses cool with journalist

The Bavarian side have been linked with some major moves, but will not splash the cash in the wake of a Covid-affected market this year
  164 Hits

Ezri Konsa: New long-term contract is a signal of intent from Aston Villa

Video: ZEbet: Aston Villa v Manchester United | Goal.com

Premier League

09:06 BST 08/05/2021

Bruno Fernandes

We preview this weekend's biggest fixtures in the Premier League featuring Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal

Original author: Goal
  149 Hits

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