The English Premier League has announced that they are going to introduce the vanishing spray which Fifa used at the World Cup in Brazil, next season in the Premier League. The vanishing spray was for the first time introduced to matches at the just concluded football tournament in Brazil. The chief Executive of Premier League, Richard Scudamore, said that the vanishing foam really helped the referees and players to mark the line position in a free-kick situation. ''It was clear from watching the 2014 Fifa World Cup in Brazil that vanishing spray benefited referees, players and all of those who watched the matches.''
The Liverpool captain, Steven Gerrard (34), said that the last three months was ''probably the worst three months of my life.'' He said that England not going through in the group phase of the World Cup and his club failing in the last period of last season to win the EPL was what constituted it. It was his slip and lost of footing that opened the door for Demba Ba to score the first of Chelsea's two goals. Liverpool lost that match 2 - 0, and that was when Liverpool's title challenge faded away.
The former Barcelona star, Seydou Keita, who now ply his trade with the Serie A giants AS Roma, refused to shake hands with Real Madrid defender Pepe, during the teams pre-season encounter in Dallas, Texas. Keita threw his water bottle at Pepe which he dodged. It seem like their quarrel which started in 2011, when Keita said that Pepe called him monkey during one of the El Classico matches has continued, even in USA. Xavi Alonzo, intervened and talked to Keita separately and cooled him down before the game could start. Pepe seem to be attracting hostility very often from players due to his behaviour.
Romelu Lukaku (21), has signed a five year contract with the Merseyside club - Everton. The club paid the sum of €35m to his former club Chelsea. The fee was a record signing fee for Everton. Lukaku is a very gifted striker with enormous energy and speed. He was on a season loan to Everton last season, where he was the highest goal scorer for the club, with 16 goals. He has become a surplus at Chelsea after the Chelsea legend Didier Drogba re-signed for a second spell to the club. Chelsea also signed Diego Costa, formerly of Atletico Madrid. Romelu Lukaku was in the World Cup in Brazil with the Belgium national team.
Serena Williams (32), the world number one women tennis star made a triumphant return to competition today, Wednesday at the Bank of the West Classics at Stanford, by beating Karolina Pliskova in two straight sets of 7 - 5, 6 - 2. Serena withrew from Wimbledon doubles with her sister at the beginning of this month due to virus infection. She returned today to competition after treatment and resting. Her big sister Venus also went through to the second round yesterday by defeating Paula Kania of Poland, 6 - 3, 6 - 2. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
The Feyenoord defender and Netherlands international, Stefan de Vrij (22),
has joined the Italian Serie A club - Lazio for an undisclosed fee. Stefan shined at the World Cup in Brazil with the Dutch national football team nicknamed De Oranje (The Orange) Boys. After signing the contract, the young player said, ''Lazio really proved that they wanted me and I am very happy I have made this move. I hope to become a more complete defender in Italy.''
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Serena William's Back In The Tennis Court
Serena Williams (32), the world number one women tennis star is back in the tennis court, after a virus forced her out of the Wimbledon double, with her sister Venus earlier this month.
She has recovered from the sickness, after treatment and some resting. She will be participating in the Bank of the West Classic at the Stanford University, beginning on Wednesday. That means that she will be fully fit, before the US Open starts next month, 25th August.
Serena said that she is feeling very good and is happy to be returning to the tennis coart.
'' I feel very good. I feel very happy to be here, so it's good,'' she said.
Refering to the sickness that forced her out of the Women's double after she had lost a day earlier on, in the fourth round of women's single.
She said that the medical personnel, that treated her at the Wimbledon, told her that she was really ill.
''They just said I was really ill, and really under the weather and I was just wasn't doing very well,' she said.
''I didn't leave my house or my bed for a few days,'' she added.
The American tennis star who had already won 17 Grand Slams in her career, did not make it past fourth round, in the first three Grand Slams of the year.
But she still has one opportunity to win, the last Grand Slams of the year - US Open. She is the defending champion of the US Open, and has won it on five previous occassions. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
She has recovered from the sickness, after treatment and some resting. She will be participating in the Bank of the West Classic at the Stanford University, beginning on Wednesday. That means that she will be fully fit, before the US Open starts next month, 25th August.
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| Serena Williams |
Serena said that she is feeling very good and is happy to be returning to the tennis coart.
'' I feel very good. I feel very happy to be here, so it's good,'' she said.
Refering to the sickness that forced her out of the Women's double after she had lost a day earlier on, in the fourth round of women's single.
She said that the medical personnel, that treated her at the Wimbledon, told her that she was really ill.
''They just said I was really ill, and really under the weather and I was just wasn't doing very well,' she said.
''I didn't leave my house or my bed for a few days,'' she added.
The American tennis star who had already won 17 Grand Slams in her career, did not make it past fourth round, in the first three Grand Slams of the year.
But she still has one opportunity to win, the last Grand Slams of the year - US Open. She is the defending champion of the US Open, and has won it on five previous occassions. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Monday, July 28, 2014
Sports News In Brief
Arsenal has signed the Southampton gifted and versatile defender, Calum Chambers (19), for 5 years at the cost of €20m. The cost of the transfer deal was a surprise to many in the football community, because of the player's age and also many considered the cost as expensive for a defender. Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, said that the teenager has tremendous quality.
''The way he adapted to the Premier League last season at a young age shows that he has tremendous quality.''
Antoine Griezmann (23), of Real Sociedad has agreed on a deal to join the Spanish champions - Atletico Madrid after passing his medical.
''Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad have reached an agreement for the transfer of Antoine Griezmann,'' the club website stated.
''The young French footballer will sign a contract with our team once he passess his medical.''
The Dutch coach, Dick Advocaat, has been appointed the new Serbia national football coach. He signed a two year contract with the mandate to get the team to qualify for the Euro 2016. The contract could be extended beyond, if he manage to get the team to qualify for the tournament, which will take place in France. The experienced coach, has coached many teams both clubsides and national teams, such as PSV Eindhoven, Glasgow Rangers, Zenit St. Petersburg, AZ Alkmaar. He had also coached the Dutch national team, South Korea, Belgium, UAE and Russia.
Terence Kongolo (20), has extended his contract at the Dutch giant club - Feyenoord to the end of 2017 league season. His old contract was to expire end of next season. Kongolo appeared in the first team of the club in 2012 and has been developing well in the team. He was part of Louis van Gaal team at the just concluded World Cup in Brazil. He played as a substitute at the World Cup. He has a great potential. He said in the Feyenoord website,
''I am confident that I can develop myself through, at Feyenoord.''
Southampton's Dejan Lovren, has officially joined Liverpool football club in what is estimated to be around €24m. The defender who also plays for the Croatian national team was very delighted to join Liverpool. After signing for Liverpool, the obviously delighted Lovren said. ''It's a dream come true. I'm happy and glad to be here. I'm proud and can't wait to start.''
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
''The way he adapted to the Premier League last season at a young age shows that he has tremendous quality.''
Antoine Griezmann (23), of Real Sociedad has agreed on a deal to join the Spanish champions - Atletico Madrid after passing his medical.
''Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad have reached an agreement for the transfer of Antoine Griezmann,'' the club website stated.
''The young French footballer will sign a contract with our team once he passess his medical.''
The Dutch coach, Dick Advocaat, has been appointed the new Serbia national football coach. He signed a two year contract with the mandate to get the team to qualify for the Euro 2016. The contract could be extended beyond, if he manage to get the team to qualify for the tournament, which will take place in France. The experienced coach, has coached many teams both clubsides and national teams, such as PSV Eindhoven, Glasgow Rangers, Zenit St. Petersburg, AZ Alkmaar. He had also coached the Dutch national team, South Korea, Belgium, UAE and Russia.
Terence Kongolo (20), has extended his contract at the Dutch giant club - Feyenoord to the end of 2017 league season. His old contract was to expire end of next season. Kongolo appeared in the first team of the club in 2012 and has been developing well in the team. He was part of Louis van Gaal team at the just concluded World Cup in Brazil. He played as a substitute at the World Cup. He has a great potential. He said in the Feyenoord website,
''I am confident that I can develop myself through, at Feyenoord.''
Southampton's Dejan Lovren, has officially joined Liverpool football club in what is estimated to be around €24m. The defender who also plays for the Croatian national team was very delighted to join Liverpool. After signing for Liverpool, the obviously delighted Lovren said. ''It's a dream come true. I'm happy and glad to be here. I'm proud and can't wait to start.''
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Redknapp Insists Remy Didn't Fail Liverpool Medical
Harry Redknapp, the Queens Park Rangers' manager does not believe, that the club's striker Loic Remy, move to Liverpool failed through due to the player's medical failure.
Rangers agreed an estimated €11m move to Liverpool, which prompted Remy to join Liverpool in USA, where the team is preparing for the new season, that is starting next month - August.
According to Liverpool, Remy had his medical there and there was a problem they discovered, but the club was not specific as to what it was.
Redknapp told the media, ''Reports have come out that he failed a medical. That's not possible. He is a very fit lad, there has to be another reason.''
''I don't see how he could have failed a medical,'' coach Redknapp said.
''He had a stringent one here, one at Marseille and at Newcastle and with France before the World Cup. You couldn't meet a fitter lad,'' he added.
Remy who was in the just conluded World Cup in Brazil with France, moved to QPR from Marseille in January 2013 in a club record deal of €10m.
The gifted striker went on a season loan to Newcastle last season, after Queens Park Rangers was relegated to the lower division.
Liverpool have not said any thing further, about why they did not want to sign the player any more, or than the reason they've already given.
As aforementioned in this article, Harry Redknapp did not believe that reason, but seem to be happy to have the player back in his team.
''Their loss is our gain - we've got a fantastic striker. I said last year he was capable of scoring 20 goals in the Premier League. That's what we now want him to do for us,'' Redknapp added.
Last season at the Newcastle United, he appeared 26 times and scored 14 goals, but it could 've been more, had it been that he did not suffer an injury, which kept him away for awhile.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Rangers agreed an estimated €11m move to Liverpool, which prompted Remy to join Liverpool in USA, where the team is preparing for the new season, that is starting next month - August.
According to Liverpool, Remy had his medical there and there was a problem they discovered, but the club was not specific as to what it was.
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| Loic Remy in action with Newcastle United |
Redknapp told the media, ''Reports have come out that he failed a medical. That's not possible. He is a very fit lad, there has to be another reason.''
''I don't see how he could have failed a medical,'' coach Redknapp said.
''He had a stringent one here, one at Marseille and at Newcastle and with France before the World Cup. You couldn't meet a fitter lad,'' he added.
Remy who was in the just conluded World Cup in Brazil with France, moved to QPR from Marseille in January 2013 in a club record deal of €10m.
The gifted striker went on a season loan to Newcastle last season, after Queens Park Rangers was relegated to the lower division.
Liverpool have not said any thing further, about why they did not want to sign the player any more, or than the reason they've already given.
As aforementioned in this article, Harry Redknapp did not believe that reason, but seem to be happy to have the player back in his team.
''Their loss is our gain - we've got a fantastic striker. I said last year he was capable of scoring 20 goals in the Premier League. That's what we now want him to do for us,'' Redknapp added.
Last season at the Newcastle United, he appeared 26 times and scored 14 goals, but it could 've been more, had it been that he did not suffer an injury, which kept him away for awhile.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Saturday, July 26, 2014
Drogba Has Re-Joined Chelsea
Didier Drogba (36), the Ivorian international and Chelsea legend, has signed a one year contract with his old club, where he made his name in football.
He left the club in 2012 after helping the club to win ten trophies, which included 3 English Premier League titles, 4 FA Cups, 2 League Cups, and one champions League title.
After winning the Champions League, he left in 2012 and joined the Chinese club - Shanghai Shenhua, but he was there for just about six months.
He then joined Galatasaray in January 2013, where he played until the end of last season. He was a free agent when his former Chelsea coach - Jose Mourinho, decided to bring him back to the club for a second spell.
Jose Mourinho, said that he was bringing Drogba back to the club, because he is one of the best strikers in Europe.
''He's coming because he's one of the best strikers in Europe,'' Jose said.
Drogba himself said in the Chelsea site, that it was an easy decision for him to come back to the club, since he couldn't turn down the opportunity to work with Jose Mourinho.
''It was an easy decision - I couldn't turn down the opportunity, to work with Jose again,'' Drogba said.
''Everyone knows the special relationship I have with this club, and it has always felt like home to me,'' he said.
I hope that his going back to Chelsea in the twilight of his career, will go well, becuase he is not as young and agile as he used to be. And he could not do some of the things he used to do in his prime.
I think that coach Mourinho brought him back, not because he is in top form but because he wants him to retire in the club, and then be employed in one capacity or the other to help the club.
Maybe as an assistant coach, director of football or even as a scout agent etc. Didier Drogba is a legend of the club and as such, Mourinho wants to honour him with a role in the club after he retires.
I think that it is a fitting gesture, for a man who brought so much joy to the club, that was an under achiever for so many decades. Chelsea won so many titles, because of his amazing goals.
Read also: africansports.blogspot.com
He left the club in 2012 after helping the club to win ten trophies, which included 3 English Premier League titles, 4 FA Cups, 2 League Cups, and one champions League title.
After winning the Champions League, he left in 2012 and joined the Chinese club - Shanghai Shenhua, but he was there for just about six months.
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| Didier Drogba |
Jose Mourinho, said that he was bringing Drogba back to the club, because he is one of the best strikers in Europe.
''He's coming because he's one of the best strikers in Europe,'' Jose said.
Drogba himself said in the Chelsea site, that it was an easy decision for him to come back to the club, since he couldn't turn down the opportunity to work with Jose Mourinho.
''It was an easy decision - I couldn't turn down the opportunity, to work with Jose again,'' Drogba said.
''Everyone knows the special relationship I have with this club, and it has always felt like home to me,'' he said.
I hope that his going back to Chelsea in the twilight of his career, will go well, becuase he is not as young and agile as he used to be. And he could not do some of the things he used to do in his prime.
I think that coach Mourinho brought him back, not because he is in top form but because he wants him to retire in the club, and then be employed in one capacity or the other to help the club.
Maybe as an assistant coach, director of football or even as a scout agent etc. Didier Drogba is a legend of the club and as such, Mourinho wants to honour him with a role in the club after he retires.
I think that it is a fitting gesture, for a man who brought so much joy to the club, that was an under achiever for so many decades. Chelsea won so many titles, because of his amazing goals.
Read also: africansports.blogspot.com
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Transferville
The Spanish giant and the Champions League champions, Real Madrid has signed one of the World Cup revealations, James Rodrigues (23), to a six year contract from AS Monaco, believed to be about €80m. He will be presented in the Santiago Bernabeu, on Tuesday. The young gifted football star won the golden boot at the World Cup with six goals.
The coach of Borussia Dortmund, Jurgen Klopp has denied the rumour that his player, Mats Hummels, who was part of the German World Cup winning team, is on his way to Manchester United. Klopp said that, the defender and Marco Reus, who was targeted by Barcelona and Bayern, are not going anywhere this summer. He said that, when newspapers mentioned that Man United, will pay €20m for Hummels, he called that garbage.
Dunga has been appointed, the new Brazil coach for a second time. He will be replacing Luis Felipe Scolari, who resigned after Brazil was knocked out of the World Cup semi - final, in a most humiliating manner by the eventual winners, Germany, 7 - 1. Dunga was the team's captain in 1994 when Brazil won the World Cup in USA. He was appointed national coach, during his first term in 2006 until 2011. In 2010 World Cup in South Africa under him, Brazil was knocked out in the quarter final.
Sven Goran Eriksson, the former England manager said that, he think Wayne Rooney (28), should be made the new England captain, following Steven Gerrard retirement from international duties. The 34 years Gerrard announced his retirement, after a very disappointing performance of the team in Brazil 2014, without winning any match in the group phase. Eriksson said that Rooney will be a good choice.
''He is the right age and he's a very important player for England,'' he told BBC Radio 5 Live.
David Ospina (25), the Colombian World Cup goalkeeper, has agreed to join Arsenal. The FC Nice of France goal tender, performed impressively at the World Cup, and will sign for Arsenal next week, when he comes back from vacation and pass his medical. The contract which is for 4 years is said to be worth €4.5m. It was also reported, that he will be earning a weekly salary of about €60,000.
Bojan Krkic (23), has signed a four year contract with the English Premier League clubside - Stoke City, from the Spanish giant Barcelona. The amount of the deal was not revealed. Last season he was on loan at Ajax Amsterdam. He was down in the pecking order of Barcelona, so this season he wants to move on. Bojan is a very gifted and talented footballer.
Alvaro Morata (21), who joined Juventus last weekend on a €20m contract from Real Madrid, has suffered an unfortunate knee injury, on his first day of training with his new club. The injury was estimated to keep him away from playing football for about two months.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
The coach of Borussia Dortmund, Jurgen Klopp has denied the rumour that his player, Mats Hummels, who was part of the German World Cup winning team, is on his way to Manchester United. Klopp said that, the defender and Marco Reus, who was targeted by Barcelona and Bayern, are not going anywhere this summer. He said that, when newspapers mentioned that Man United, will pay €20m for Hummels, he called that garbage.
Dunga has been appointed, the new Brazil coach for a second time. He will be replacing Luis Felipe Scolari, who resigned after Brazil was knocked out of the World Cup semi - final, in a most humiliating manner by the eventual winners, Germany, 7 - 1. Dunga was the team's captain in 1994 when Brazil won the World Cup in USA. He was appointed national coach, during his first term in 2006 until 2011. In 2010 World Cup in South Africa under him, Brazil was knocked out in the quarter final.
Sven Goran Eriksson, the former England manager said that, he think Wayne Rooney (28), should be made the new England captain, following Steven Gerrard retirement from international duties. The 34 years Gerrard announced his retirement, after a very disappointing performance of the team in Brazil 2014, without winning any match in the group phase. Eriksson said that Rooney will be a good choice.
''He is the right age and he's a very important player for England,'' he told BBC Radio 5 Live.
David Ospina (25), the Colombian World Cup goalkeeper, has agreed to join Arsenal. The FC Nice of France goal tender, performed impressively at the World Cup, and will sign for Arsenal next week, when he comes back from vacation and pass his medical. The contract which is for 4 years is said to be worth €4.5m. It was also reported, that he will be earning a weekly salary of about €60,000.
Bojan Krkic (23), has signed a four year contract with the English Premier League clubside - Stoke City, from the Spanish giant Barcelona. The amount of the deal was not revealed. Last season he was on loan at Ajax Amsterdam. He was down in the pecking order of Barcelona, so this season he wants to move on. Bojan is a very gifted and talented footballer.
Alvaro Morata (21), who joined Juventus last weekend on a €20m contract from Real Madrid, has suffered an unfortunate knee injury, on his first day of training with his new club. The injury was estimated to keep him away from playing football for about two months.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Sports News In Brief
Lewis Hamilton (29), the British formula 1 driver for Mercedes fought amazingly hard from the back grid of 20th position to finish 3rd on the Podium. It was a wonderful piece of driving skills and talents. His Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg finished 1st and is now leading Hamilton on the drivers' table standing with 14 points difference. Valtteri Bottas of Williams finished 2nd on the podium. Hamilton crashed out in the Saturday's practice and in today's race he also had a minor accident with his former team-mate at Williams, Jenson Burton.
Caroline Wozniacki (24), the ex - girl friend of the Northern Irish golfer, Rory Mcllroy, won the Istanbul Tennis Open title on Sunday, by defeating Roberta Vinci (31), 6 - 1, 6 - 1 in the tournament's final.
Wozniacki was so good in the match as the scoreline showed, that Vinci who had beaten her twice out of their three previous meetings, was left with shock at the manner she was crushed. On the day Wozniacki won the Istanbul Open, her former boy friend Mcllroy also won the Open Championship.
The Chelsea striker and Senegalese international, Demba Ba (29), has joined the Turkish club, FC Besitas for €6m according to the club's website. The President of the club, Fikret Orman, said, ''Ba is a player we all believe in, we put in a lot of time and effort to complete the transfer.''
While the new Besitas hitman, Demba said in the club site,
''I've had a lot of positive feedback about Besitas and Istanbul from my Senegalese friends in Turkey.''
The Philipino WBO, welterweight boxing champion, Manny Pacquiao, camp has announced, that the champion's next fight will be against the undefeated American boxer Chris Algieri. Algieri who was a former kick-boxer defeated Ruslan Provodnikov, in the WBO light - weltereight title fight in June. Pacquiao fight against Algieri, is scheduled for 22 November in the Chinese macau. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Rory Mcllroy (25), the Northern Irish golfer, and former boy friend of the Danish tennis star, Caroline Wozniacki (24), lifted his first Open Championship trophy today, Sunday at the Hoylake. He clinched the title with a two - shot victory over Rickie Fowler and Sergio Garcia.
This makes it three majors that he has won, since he turned professional. On the day he won the Open Championship, his ex-girl friend, Caroline Wozniacki also won the Istanbul Open.
The Brazilian international and Atletico Madrid left-back, Filipe Luis (28), has signed a three year contract for a fee of €20m, with the London club Chelsea. The player was signed to replace the former club left-back, Ashley Cole, who has since joined the Serie A clubside AS Roma. Filipe said that joining Chelsea was a dream come true for him. ''This move is a dream come true for me. I now have the opportunity to play for Chelsea and also in the Premier League.'' He was the second player from Atletico Madrid that Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho has signed this month. Mourinho had already signed his former team-mate and striker, Diego Costa, this week.
David Obaze (25), a British citizen has been found guilty of match fixing in an Australian court. He was found guilty, for helping a global betting syndicate fix three semi-professional matches, in the Victoria Premier League. Obaze and three of his former team-mates, at the Southern Stars of the league, were charged with corruption. He is making it the third British, that has been convicted of match fixing in Australia. The world football governing body, FIFA had already given the four men a life ban. Another British man, Nicholas McKoy (24), has also pleaded guilty for match fixing, and his court hearing has been scheduled for September.
The Newcastle right-back, Mathieu Debuchy (28), has signed a five year contract with the English Premier League (EPL) top flight club - Arsenal, for an undisclosed fee. Debuchy who featured for France at the just concluded World Cup in Brazil, now has a big opportunity to play for a big club in big matches, especially in the Champions League. The former Ligue 1 defender with the clubside FC Lille, is believed to be a very good replacement for Bacary Sagna, who joined Manchester City last month, at the end of his contract as a free agent. Read: africanfootie.blogspot.com
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| Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes |
Caroline Wozniacki (24), the ex - girl friend of the Northern Irish golfer, Rory Mcllroy, won the Istanbul Tennis Open title on Sunday, by defeating Roberta Vinci (31), 6 - 1, 6 - 1 in the tournament's final.
Wozniacki was so good in the match as the scoreline showed, that Vinci who had beaten her twice out of their three previous meetings, was left with shock at the manner she was crushed. On the day Wozniacki won the Istanbul Open, her former boy friend Mcllroy also won the Open Championship.
The Chelsea striker and Senegalese international, Demba Ba (29), has joined the Turkish club, FC Besitas for €6m according to the club's website. The President of the club, Fikret Orman, said, ''Ba is a player we all believe in, we put in a lot of time and effort to complete the transfer.''
While the new Besitas hitman, Demba said in the club site,
''I've had a lot of positive feedback about Besitas and Istanbul from my Senegalese friends in Turkey.''
The Philipino WBO, welterweight boxing champion, Manny Pacquiao, camp has announced, that the champion's next fight will be against the undefeated American boxer Chris Algieri. Algieri who was a former kick-boxer defeated Ruslan Provodnikov, in the WBO light - weltereight title fight in June. Pacquiao fight against Algieri, is scheduled for 22 November in the Chinese macau. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Rory Mcllroy (25), the Northern Irish golfer, and former boy friend of the Danish tennis star, Caroline Wozniacki (24), lifted his first Open Championship trophy today, Sunday at the Hoylake. He clinched the title with a two - shot victory over Rickie Fowler and Sergio Garcia.
This makes it three majors that he has won, since he turned professional. On the day he won the Open Championship, his ex-girl friend, Caroline Wozniacki also won the Istanbul Open.
The Brazilian international and Atletico Madrid left-back, Filipe Luis (28), has signed a three year contract for a fee of €20m, with the London club Chelsea. The player was signed to replace the former club left-back, Ashley Cole, who has since joined the Serie A clubside AS Roma. Filipe said that joining Chelsea was a dream come true for him. ''This move is a dream come true for me. I now have the opportunity to play for Chelsea and also in the Premier League.'' He was the second player from Atletico Madrid that Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho has signed this month. Mourinho had already signed his former team-mate and striker, Diego Costa, this week.
David Obaze (25), a British citizen has been found guilty of match fixing in an Australian court. He was found guilty, for helping a global betting syndicate fix three semi-professional matches, in the Victoria Premier League. Obaze and three of his former team-mates, at the Southern Stars of the league, were charged with corruption. He is making it the third British, that has been convicted of match fixing in Australia. The world football governing body, FIFA had already given the four men a life ban. Another British man, Nicholas McKoy (24), has also pleaded guilty for match fixing, and his court hearing has been scheduled for September.
The Newcastle right-back, Mathieu Debuchy (28), has signed a five year contract with the English Premier League (EPL) top flight club - Arsenal, for an undisclosed fee. Debuchy who featured for France at the just concluded World Cup in Brazil, now has a big opportunity to play for a big club in big matches, especially in the Champions League. The former Ligue 1 defender with the clubside FC Lille, is believed to be a very good replacement for Bacary Sagna, who joined Manchester City last month, at the end of his contract as a free agent. Read: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Saturday, July 19, 2014
Ideye Brown Joins West Brom Albion
The Nigerian international with Dynamo Kiev, Ideye Brown (25), has signed a three year contract, with the option of one year extension with the English Premier League clubside - West Brom Albion. The deal which was about €10m is said to be a club record.
Brown did not participate with the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles in the just concluded World Cup in Brazil.
He was in the 30 man provisional team of coach Stephen Keshi, but did not make the 23 man team to the tournament.
However, he represented Nigeria in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and also the Confederation Cup in Brazil in 2013. He was also a member of the Super Eagles, that won the African Cup of Nations in 2013. He has played for his country 24 times and scored 5 goals.
The West Brom coach, Alan Irvine said after the forward signed for them,
''Brown is a quality striker and I'm looking forward to working with him.''
''He's a strong strong, quick, powerful player who likes to get in behind defences, and has plenty of Champions League and international experience,'' Irvine said.
The striker said that he is a big fan of the Premier League, since he started playing in Europe. He played for the Swiss clubside - Neuchatel Xamas in 2008 and also for the Ligue 1 club - Sochaux in 2010, before he joined the Kiev club Dynamo. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
''I always wanted to play in the Premier League (EPL). I've always been a massive fan from the moment I moved to Europe. It was always a dream,'' the striker told BBC Sports.
''It's what I really wanted for my career and family. I thank God for the opportunity, West Brom and my agents for making it happen,'' he said.
''I have a big enthusiasm and a big will, but undoubtedly my performance on the pitch will judge me,'' he said.
I think he hit the nail at the head, indeed the only thing that will judge his success or failure in the EPL, is only his performance.
There is no doubt that he will succeed in the EPL, if he make good use of his talent, work very hard and avoid bad influences and swollen head.
I wish him success in the EPL. Cheers.
Brown did not participate with the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles in the just concluded World Cup in Brazil.
He was in the 30 man provisional team of coach Stephen Keshi, but did not make the 23 man team to the tournament.
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| Brown Ideye |
However, he represented Nigeria in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and also the Confederation Cup in Brazil in 2013. He was also a member of the Super Eagles, that won the African Cup of Nations in 2013. He has played for his country 24 times and scored 5 goals.
The West Brom coach, Alan Irvine said after the forward signed for them,
''Brown is a quality striker and I'm looking forward to working with him.''
''He's a strong strong, quick, powerful player who likes to get in behind defences, and has plenty of Champions League and international experience,'' Irvine said.
The striker said that he is a big fan of the Premier League, since he started playing in Europe. He played for the Swiss clubside - Neuchatel Xamas in 2008 and also for the Ligue 1 club - Sochaux in 2010, before he joined the Kiev club Dynamo. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
''I always wanted to play in the Premier League (EPL). I've always been a massive fan from the moment I moved to Europe. It was always a dream,'' the striker told BBC Sports.
''It's what I really wanted for my career and family. I thank God for the opportunity, West Brom and my agents for making it happen,'' he said.
''I have a big enthusiasm and a big will, but undoubtedly my performance on the pitch will judge me,'' he said.
I think he hit the nail at the head, indeed the only thing that will judge his success or failure in the EPL, is only his performance.
There is no doubt that he will succeed in the EPL, if he make good use of his talent, work very hard and avoid bad influences and swollen head.
I wish him success in the EPL. Cheers.
Friday, July 18, 2014
Philipp Lahm Retires From International Duties
Philipp Lahm (30), the German captain who led his team-mates to the World Cup victory, in the just concluded tournament in Brazil, has announced his retirement from international duties.
He wants to concentrate on club football. Bayern Munich, the club where he ply his trade extended his contract until 2018.
Lahm represented Germany in international duties for 113 times, and the crowning glory came with winning the World Cup, last Sunday on the 13th.
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Philipp Lahm
In his message in the German football association (DFB) website, he said
''I am happy and grateful, that the end of my career with the national team coincided with winning the World Cup in Brazil,'' Lahm wrote.
The President of DFB, Mr Wolfgang Niersbach, said that Lahm, was not just a superb footballer, but also a real role model.
''He was not just a superb player for 10 years in the national team, but also a complete role model. I thanked him for everything that he's done for the DFB.''
His club President and former German international Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, said that there is no better way to say farewell, than to leave at the height of your career and also as a World Champion.
''There is hardly a better farewell than to be a World champion at the peak of your career.'' Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
He wants to concentrate on club football. Bayern Munich, the club where he ply his trade extended his contract until 2018.
Lahm represented Germany in international duties for 113 times, and the crowning glory came with winning the World Cup, last Sunday on the 13th.
In his message in the German football association (DFB) website, he said
''I am happy and grateful, that the end of my career with the national team coincided with winning the World Cup in Brazil,'' Lahm wrote.
The President of DFB, Mr Wolfgang Niersbach, said that Lahm, was not just a superb footballer, but also a real role model.
''He was not just a superb player for 10 years in the national team, but also a complete role model. I thanked him for everything that he's done for the DFB.''
His club President and former German international Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, said that there is no better way to say farewell, than to leave at the height of your career and also as a World Champion.
''There is hardly a better farewell than to be a World champion at the peak of your career.'' Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Toni Kroos Joins Real Madrid
Toni Kroos (24), the former Bayern Munich midfielder and German international has signed a six year contract with the Champions of the Champions League and Spanish giant - Real Madrid. The cost of the deal was not made public.
Kroos came back with his German national team-mates after playing a vital role in Germany winning their fouth World Cup in Brazil after beating Argentina 1 - 0 in the final match on Sunday.
He was unvailed on Thursday at the famous Bernabeu Stadium to the club's teeming fans.
Real Madrid President Perez, said that the club legend, Alfredo Di Stefano, who died recently of heart attack, would've been very excited that Kroos joined the club.
Perez described the young talented German player, as " the most complete player at the World Cup " and he believes, that he will help the club win many more titles, both domestic and in Europe.
''His excellent performances in recent weeks, were not a surprise for us, but just a confirmation that we chose the right man. He had a spectacular World Cup,'' he said.
''Bayern imprints a special character, on to those who wear their jersey. But this is your home now, Toni. This is your family.''
''Two months ago we were celebrating our 10th Champions League, but Real Madrid always want more.''
''Many, if not all of us, are already dreaming of the 11th Champions League now. I expect you to fulfil big dreams here,'' Perez told Kroos.
Toni Kroos said that, he wanted to convey his sadness, about the passing away of the club legend, Alfredo Di Stefano.
''First of all, I want to express my deep sorrow for the loss of Di Stefano. I know how much he meant for Real Madrid.''
''I am incredibly proud to be here. I cannot imagine anything more beautiful than being here, with the Real Madrid fans.''
''I want to thank the club for giving me the opportunity, to come and play here, at thebiggest club in the world.''
He promised to do his best, to help the club win many more silverwares.
Kroos joined Bayern Munich at the age of 16 years, from the East German club Hansa Rostock. He won many titles in Bayern including the treble titles of last year in the Bundesliga.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Kroos came back with his German national team-mates after playing a vital role in Germany winning their fouth World Cup in Brazil after beating Argentina 1 - 0 in the final match on Sunday.
He was unvailed on Thursday at the famous Bernabeu Stadium to the club's teeming fans.
Real Madrid President Perez, said that the club legend, Alfredo Di Stefano, who died recently of heart attack, would've been very excited that Kroos joined the club.
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| Toni Kroos |
Perez described the young talented German player, as " the most complete player at the World Cup " and he believes, that he will help the club win many more titles, both domestic and in Europe.
''His excellent performances in recent weeks, were not a surprise for us, but just a confirmation that we chose the right man. He had a spectacular World Cup,'' he said.
''Bayern imprints a special character, on to those who wear their jersey. But this is your home now, Toni. This is your family.''
''Two months ago we were celebrating our 10th Champions League, but Real Madrid always want more.''
''Many, if not all of us, are already dreaming of the 11th Champions League now. I expect you to fulfil big dreams here,'' Perez told Kroos.
Toni Kroos said that, he wanted to convey his sadness, about the passing away of the club legend, Alfredo Di Stefano.
''First of all, I want to express my deep sorrow for the loss of Di Stefano. I know how much he meant for Real Madrid.''
''I am incredibly proud to be here. I cannot imagine anything more beautiful than being here, with the Real Madrid fans.''
''I want to thank the club for giving me the opportunity, to come and play here, at thebiggest club in the world.''
He promised to do his best, to help the club win many more silverwares.
Kroos joined Bayern Munich at the age of 16 years, from the East German club Hansa Rostock. He won many titles in Bayern including the treble titles of last year in the Bundesliga.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Sports News In Brief
Louis van Gaal (62), the new Manchester United began his reign today. He just came back from the just concluded World Cup in Brazil, where he guided the Dutch national team to the third best team in the world. His contract with the Dutch FA (KNVB), ended with the end of the World Cup.
Van Gaal said during the tournament, that he did not need a vacation after the WC. So three days after coming back home with his team, he began his new job at the old Trafford. He said that, he hope Manchester United will become like his Dutch team at the world Cup.
''I hope the group in Manchester will become like this one. We have to sing from th same hymn sheet.''
The Juventus Chilean midfielder, Arturo Vidal has been declared ''Not for Sale'' by the club as a number of clubs including Manchester United has been linked with trying to buy the services of the gifted midfielder.
The director of the club, Guiseppe Marotta, says that the club have no interest to sell the player.
''Vidal is a Juventus player and we have never put him up for sale,'' Marotta said during a press conference.
''A lot of clubs have asked for him, but we have never sat down to negotiate. We want to keep him,'' Marotta added.
The former AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri, has been appointed to replace Antonio Conte who won the last Serie A titles for the club, after he resigned due to disagreement with the management over signing of new players, according to media report.
''It is an honour for me. I'm very happy and I know what a big job coaching Juventus is,'' Allegri said.
Allegri was sacked in January by AC Milan, after a series of poor performances with the team, and Clarence Seedorf was appointed to replace him. Many people in football community, were surprised that Juventus allowed their successful coach, Mr Conte to leave.
Ashley Cole (33), the former Chelsea defender, has signed a two year contract with the Serie A clubside AS Roma.
Mr Cole's contract expired this summer, and was not renewed. The new club, AS Roma announced in their site that they have signed, the former Arsenal and Chelsea left back. The deal has the option of extension to a third season.
Van Gaal said during the tournament, that he did not need a vacation after the WC. So three days after coming back home with his team, he began his new job at the old Trafford. He said that, he hope Manchester United will become like his Dutch team at the world Cup.
''I hope the group in Manchester will become like this one. We have to sing from th same hymn sheet.''
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| Louis van Gaal |
The Juventus Chilean midfielder, Arturo Vidal has been declared ''Not for Sale'' by the club as a number of clubs including Manchester United has been linked with trying to buy the services of the gifted midfielder.
The director of the club, Guiseppe Marotta, says that the club have no interest to sell the player.
''Vidal is a Juventus player and we have never put him up for sale,'' Marotta said during a press conference.
''A lot of clubs have asked for him, but we have never sat down to negotiate. We want to keep him,'' Marotta added.
The former AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri, has been appointed to replace Antonio Conte who won the last Serie A titles for the club, after he resigned due to disagreement with the management over signing of new players, according to media report.
''It is an honour for me. I'm very happy and I know what a big job coaching Juventus is,'' Allegri said.
Allegri was sacked in January by AC Milan, after a series of poor performances with the team, and Clarence Seedorf was appointed to replace him. Many people in football community, were surprised that Juventus allowed their successful coach, Mr Conte to leave.
Ashley Cole (33), the former Chelsea defender, has signed a two year contract with the Serie A clubside AS Roma.
Mr Cole's contract expired this summer, and was not renewed. The new club, AS Roma announced in their site that they have signed, the former Arsenal and Chelsea left back. The deal has the option of extension to a third season.
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Floyd Mayweather Vs Marcos Maidana Rematch
Floyd Mayweather Jr, the undefeated welterweight world champion, who defended his World Boxing Council (WBC) belt and World Boxing Association belt in May, against the Argentine Marcos Maidana, will be fighting each other again.
They will fight each other again, on the 13th of September in Las Vegas. In the first match in May, Mayweather defended his belts with a victorious decision by the judges.
The American has won all his 46 fights and at the of 37 years is still rock solid in his choosing profession.
The flamboyant boxer said that, the up coming fight against Maidana has only one out-come, and that is he will have another victory over his opponent.
''I only see the outcome one way and that's another successful night for me and my team,'' Mayweather said.
''I'm not one to give second chances in the ring, but I want to give the fans
what they want to see,'' he added.
Mayweather accused Maidana of being a dirty fighter, and claimed that he got a deep gash, in their first fight from his head butt.
''Is Maidana a better fighter than Canelo? No. Cotto? No. He's just a dirtier fighter. I didn't get a deep gash from a punch; I got it from a head butt...'' the champ said.
Marcos Maidana then replied by calling Mayweather, the king of elbowing.
''I fight dirty? He's the king of the elbows,'' Maidana said.
This rematch is going to be very interesting to watch who will come out tops. The accusation and counter accusation has already started. The first match ended in a victory for Mayweather, who knows whether he will still claim another victory or maybe Maidana will have his revenge, only time will tell. Cheers. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
They will fight each other again, on the 13th of September in Las Vegas. In the first match in May, Mayweather defended his belts with a victorious decision by the judges.
The American has won all his 46 fights and at the of 37 years is still rock solid in his choosing profession.
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| Floyd Mayweather |
The flamboyant boxer said that, the up coming fight against Maidana has only one out-come, and that is he will have another victory over his opponent.
''I only see the outcome one way and that's another successful night for me and my team,'' Mayweather said.
''I'm not one to give second chances in the ring, but I want to give the fans
what they want to see,'' he added.
Mayweather accused Maidana of being a dirty fighter, and claimed that he got a deep gash, in their first fight from his head butt.
''Is Maidana a better fighter than Canelo? No. Cotto? No. He's just a dirtier fighter. I didn't get a deep gash from a punch; I got it from a head butt...'' the champ said.
Marcos Maidana then replied by calling Mayweather, the king of elbowing.
''I fight dirty? He's the king of the elbows,'' Maidana said.
This rematch is going to be very interesting to watch who will come out tops. The accusation and counter accusation has already started. The first match ended in a victory for Mayweather, who knows whether he will still claim another victory or maybe Maidana will have his revenge, only time will tell. Cheers. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Monday, July 14, 2014
Super Mario Shot Germany To 4th WC Title
Germany lifted the World Cup for the 4th time, through a lone goal scored in the second half of the extra time against Argentina by the Bayern Munich ''Wonder Boy" Mario Gotze.
The World Cup final, which was played on Sunday, at the famous Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janiero, was 0 - 0 at the end of full 90 minutes.
There were some glaring scoring chances, missed by both teams, especially Argentina. Three good chances were missed by Higuain, Messi and palacios.
In the regular time of play the two teams played well, but it was the Argentines that were more of a threat.
Germany played really well, but not as good as in the semi-final against the host nation - Brazil. May be it was because they were cautious, to avoid making a costly mistake.
Even so, they still played a very good game. It was an entertaining match, a nail biter, which went into extra 30 minutes.
The first 15 minutes of the extra time, still did not produce any goal. At this stage of the game, any team that first score was likely to win the match, but still no goal was forth coming.
But everything changed half way into the second half of the extra time, when the Chelsea striker, Andre Schurrle beat two Argentines at the left flank and crossed the ball into the box, which Mario Gotze expertly chested down and immediately shot into the net with his left foot, beating goalkeeper Sergio Romero.
In the remaining 7 minutes after the goal, the Argentines fought to equalize, but the Germans wouldn't allow them, so it ended 1 - 0 in favour of the Germans.
After the match the German coach, Joachim Loew, revealed the pep talk he gave the match winner at the interval.
He said that he said to him, to show that he was better than Lionel Messi.
''Show you're better than Lionel Messi.''
''Gotze is a miracle boy, a boy wonder. He can play any position, he has superior technical qualities and is always able to decide a match.
''So at the break I said to Mario, 'Okay, show the world you're better than Messi and that you can decide the World Cup final, you have the possibility to do that.'
''I had a good feeling with him. I said he can play anywhere. And he showed it,'' the happy coach Loew said. Germany is the only European nation to win the World Cup in the Americas.
The match winner whose coach described as ''Wonder Boy" said that the feeling of being the match winner was undescribable.
''It's an unbelievable feeling. I don't know how to describe it,'' Gotze said.
''You just shoot and don't know what's happening, and suddenly you're part of an incredible party, with the whole team and country,'' he added.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
The World Cup final, which was played on Sunday, at the famous Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janiero, was 0 - 0 at the end of full 90 minutes.
There were some glaring scoring chances, missed by both teams, especially Argentina. Three good chances were missed by Higuain, Messi and palacios.
In the regular time of play the two teams played well, but it was the Argentines that were more of a threat.
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| Mario Gotze |
Even so, they still played a very good game. It was an entertaining match, a nail biter, which went into extra 30 minutes.
The first 15 minutes of the extra time, still did not produce any goal. At this stage of the game, any team that first score was likely to win the match, but still no goal was forth coming.
But everything changed half way into the second half of the extra time, when the Chelsea striker, Andre Schurrle beat two Argentines at the left flank and crossed the ball into the box, which Mario Gotze expertly chested down and immediately shot into the net with his left foot, beating goalkeeper Sergio Romero.
In the remaining 7 minutes after the goal, the Argentines fought to equalize, but the Germans wouldn't allow them, so it ended 1 - 0 in favour of the Germans.
After the match the German coach, Joachim Loew, revealed the pep talk he gave the match winner at the interval.
He said that he said to him, to show that he was better than Lionel Messi.
''Show you're better than Lionel Messi.''
''Gotze is a miracle boy, a boy wonder. He can play any position, he has superior technical qualities and is always able to decide a match.
''So at the break I said to Mario, 'Okay, show the world you're better than Messi and that you can decide the World Cup final, you have the possibility to do that.'
''I had a good feeling with him. I said he can play anywhere. And he showed it,'' the happy coach Loew said. Germany is the only European nation to win the World Cup in the Americas.
The match winner whose coach described as ''Wonder Boy" said that the feeling of being the match winner was undescribable.
''It's an unbelievable feeling. I don't know how to describe it,'' Gotze said.
''You just shoot and don't know what's happening, and suddenly you're part of an incredible party, with the whole team and country,'' he added.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Netherlands Over Came Brazil For Bronze
The Orange Boys beat the host nation Brazil 3 - 0, in the battle for bronze, in the on-going Fifa World Cup in Brazil.
Robin van Persie , the captain of the Dutch team scored the first goal, in the 3rd minute through a penalty.
The Brazilian team was a bit disorganised, and the absence of their injured star player - Neymar, was evident as in the semi-final, when Germany dismantled the host team with a whopping 7 - 1.
In less than a quarter of an hour, Daley Blind doubled the score, with a right footed shot at the right hand side of the net, beating the goalkeeper, Julio Cesar. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
To compound matter for Brazil, Georginio Wijnaldum added a third goal a couple of minutes to stoppage time.
The match was the last for the Dutch coach, Louis van Gaal, who was appointed the new manager of the English Premier League club, Manchester United.
Robin van Persie , the captain of the Dutch team scored the first goal, in the 3rd minute through a penalty.
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| De Oranje (Dutch Team) |
The Brazilian team was a bit disorganised, and the absence of their injured star player - Neymar, was evident as in the semi-final, when Germany dismantled the host team with a whopping 7 - 1.
In less than a quarter of an hour, Daley Blind doubled the score, with a right footed shot at the right hand side of the net, beating the goalkeeper, Julio Cesar. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
To compound matter for Brazil, Georginio Wijnaldum added a third goal a couple of minutes to stoppage time.
The match was the last for the Dutch coach, Louis van Gaal, who was appointed the new manager of the English Premier League club, Manchester United.
Graziano Pelle Joins Southampton
Graziano Pelle (28), the former striker for the Dutch giant club - Feyenoord, has signed a three year contract with the English Premier League (EPL) club Southampton.
The deal is reported to be around €10m. He joined Feyenoord from the Italian Serie A club - Parma in 2012 and scored a mouth-watering 55 goals in 66 appearances for the Rotherdam club.
In joining Southampton, he will be teaming up with his former Feyenoord coach, Ronald Koeman, who is the new manager of the club.
Ronald Koeman said about signing his former Feyenoord star striker,
''I had Graziano in my team for my last years at Feyenoord. He scored a lot of goals - more than 50 in two seasons and they brought a lot of points to the club.''
''Goals means points, and we needed a good player in that position, after Richie Lambert left,'' Koeman added.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
The deal is reported to be around €10m. He joined Feyenoord from the Italian Serie A club - Parma in 2012 and scored a mouth-watering 55 goals in 66 appearances for the Rotherdam club.
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| Graziano Pelle |
In joining Southampton, he will be teaming up with his former Feyenoord coach, Ronald Koeman, who is the new manager of the club.
Ronald Koeman said about signing his former Feyenoord star striker,
''I had Graziano in my team for my last years at Feyenoord. He scored a lot of goals - more than 50 in two seasons and they brought a lot of points to the club.''
''Goals means points, and we needed a good player in that position, after Richie Lambert left,'' Koeman added.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Luis Suarez Has Joined Barcelona
Luis Suarez (27), has finally joined the Spanish giant Barcelona from Liverpool, on a five year contract that cost about €88m.
Suarez scored 31 goals last season as the highest goal scorer, in the English Premier league, which helped Liverpool to finish in second position on the EPL table.
He is currently serving a four month ban, from all football activities by Fifa for biting the Italian international, Giorgio Chiellini during the World Cup match, between Uruguay and Italy.
This week the appeal the Uruguay Football Association made to Fifa, regarding the ban was rejected, so the ban stands.
It was reported in the media, that Barcelona is hoping to appeal to Fifa, for a reduction in the punishment given to the controvertial, but highly talented and skillful footballer.
Luis Suarez camp is now talking of taking the case to Court of Sports Arbitration (CAS). They felt that that is their last resort. Lets wait and see what will be the out-come of the case. Cheers.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Suarez scored 31 goals last season as the highest goal scorer, in the English Premier league, which helped Liverpool to finish in second position on the EPL table.
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| Luis Suarez |
He is currently serving a four month ban, from all football activities by Fifa for biting the Italian international, Giorgio Chiellini during the World Cup match, between Uruguay and Italy.
This week the appeal the Uruguay Football Association made to Fifa, regarding the ban was rejected, so the ban stands.
It was reported in the media, that Barcelona is hoping to appeal to Fifa, for a reduction in the punishment given to the controvertial, but highly talented and skillful footballer.
Luis Suarez camp is now talking of taking the case to Court of Sports Arbitration (CAS). They felt that that is their last resort. Lets wait and see what will be the out-come of the case. Cheers.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Thursday, July 10, 2014
The Dream Is Over For The Orange Boys
Argentina managed to scale through to the World Cup final after beating the Netherlands 4 - 2 in the penalty shoot out in the semi - final on Wednesday.
After the full normal 90 minutes of play there was stalement. They played an extra 30 minutes and still the match ended 0 - 0.
There were just a few chances created in the encounter by the two teams. And the two leading stars in either camp - Messi for Aegentina and Robben for the Netherlands were not given space by the oppositions to operate.
Infact Lionel Messi hardly touch ball in the box, while Arjan Robben in a few moments of brilliance in the box, where not allowed by the Argentine defenders to take shots.
In the penalty shoot out two Dutch players Wesley Snijder and Ron Vlaar missed. The Argentine goalkeeper, Sergio Romero blocked their shots, while the Dutch goalkeeper Jasper Cillisen could not save any penalty.
The Dutch coach, Louis van Gaal said that he asked two players to take the first penalty kick, but they refused to be the first to take the penalty. Then Ron Vlaar who was outstanding in the match accepted to do it.
''I asked two players to take the first ball, before ending up with Vlaar.
I taught he was the best player on the pitch so should have confidence,'' coach Louis van Gaal said.
In a twist of fate, Sergio Romero, who played under van Gaal for two seasons, and was taught by the coach how to stop penalties, became the man to deny van Gaal's team passage to the final.
''Penalties are always a matter of luck. And I taught Romero how to stop penalties so that hurts,'' Van Gaal said.
Though after the match, the goalkeeper Romero went and thanked Van Gaal for everything he did for him at AZ Alkmaar club.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
After the full normal 90 minutes of play there was stalement. They played an extra 30 minutes and still the match ended 0 - 0.
There were just a few chances created in the encounter by the two teams. And the two leading stars in either camp - Messi for Aegentina and Robben for the Netherlands were not given space by the oppositions to operate.
 |
| The Dutch players |
Infact Lionel Messi hardly touch ball in the box, while Arjan Robben in a few moments of brilliance in the box, where not allowed by the Argentine defenders to take shots.
In the penalty shoot out two Dutch players Wesley Snijder and Ron Vlaar missed. The Argentine goalkeeper, Sergio Romero blocked their shots, while the Dutch goalkeeper Jasper Cillisen could not save any penalty.
The Dutch coach, Louis van Gaal said that he asked two players to take the first penalty kick, but they refused to be the first to take the penalty. Then Ron Vlaar who was outstanding in the match accepted to do it.
''I asked two players to take the first ball, before ending up with Vlaar.
I taught he was the best player on the pitch so should have confidence,'' coach Louis van Gaal said.
In a twist of fate, Sergio Romero, who played under van Gaal for two seasons, and was taught by the coach how to stop penalties, became the man to deny van Gaal's team passage to the final.
''Penalties are always a matter of luck. And I taught Romero how to stop penalties so that hurts,'' Van Gaal said.
Though after the match, the goalkeeper Romero went and thanked Van Gaal for everything he did for him at AZ Alkmaar club.
Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
The Worst Day Of My Life Says Scolari
The Brazil national team was handed a massive crushing defeat of 7 - 1 by the Germans in the semi-final of the on going Fifa World Cup on Tuesday at the Belo Horizonte.
It was a match result that shocked the football community all over the world. The Germans were so good and the Brazilians were disorganised and ill prepard for the match that the scoreline in the first half was 5 - 0.
Thomas Mueller scored the first goal at the 11th minute of play, followed by a second goal by Miroslav Klose, a goal saw him become the highest goal scorer in the history of Word Cup. It was his 16th goal, which helped him surpass 15 goals of the Brazilian Ronaldo.
The Brazilian coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari (65), who won the 2002 World Cup as the team coach described the match as the worst day of his life.
''I think it was the worst day of my life,'' the coach told the media.
Scolari took the responsibility for the humiliating and devastating result.
''I will be remembered as the coach to lose 7 - 1, but I knew that risk when I took the job and life goes on so so that is what I am going to do.''
Before the interval Mueller, Klose and Khedira scored one each and Toni Kroos scored two. When they came back in the second half Andre Schuerrle completed the German goals with additional two goals. Oscar got the one goal consolation for Brazil.
The team was dismantled in six crucial minutes, when the Germans scored four goals. It was really unbelievable. The Germans out played the Brazilians in every department of the game.
''My message for the Brazilian people and fans is that we did what we could do and we did what we think was our best,'' Scolari said.
''We lost to a great team with great skill, that took six minutes to change the game with four goals in an extra ordinary manner.''
He went on and apologise to the nation for the humiliation the team suffered.
''Please excuse us for this mistake. We are sorry we could not get to the final,'' he said. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
''Who is the one responsible? I am. This catastrophic result can be shared with the whole group, because that is what my players say and want, but I am the one who chooses the tactics, the lineup, so the person responsible for the result is me,'' Luis Scolari said.
Brazil missed two key players - Neymar and the team captain Silva were not involved in the match. Neymar had injury, while Silva was serving a match ban, due to yellow cards.
He disagreed with the suggestion that Brazil performed badly, because their star player - Neymar did not play.
''Lets not try to find excuses. What happened was that Germany imposed a fantastic rhythm and was able in two or three moments to define the match.
It has nothing to do with Neymar,'' he said.
It was a match result that shocked the football community all over the world. The Germans were so good and the Brazilians were disorganised and ill prepard for the match that the scoreline in the first half was 5 - 0.
Thomas Mueller scored the first goal at the 11th minute of play, followed by a second goal by Miroslav Klose, a goal saw him become the highest goal scorer in the history of Word Cup. It was his 16th goal, which helped him surpass 15 goals of the Brazilian Ronaldo.
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Luis Felipe Scolari |
The Brazilian coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari (65), who won the 2002 World Cup as the team coach described the match as the worst day of his life.
''I think it was the worst day of my life,'' the coach told the media.
Scolari took the responsibility for the humiliating and devastating result.
''I will be remembered as the coach to lose 7 - 1, but I knew that risk when I took the job and life goes on so so that is what I am going to do.''
Before the interval Mueller, Klose and Khedira scored one each and Toni Kroos scored two. When they came back in the second half Andre Schuerrle completed the German goals with additional two goals. Oscar got the one goal consolation for Brazil.
The team was dismantled in six crucial minutes, when the Germans scored four goals. It was really unbelievable. The Germans out played the Brazilians in every department of the game.
''My message for the Brazilian people and fans is that we did what we could do and we did what we think was our best,'' Scolari said.
''We lost to a great team with great skill, that took six minutes to change the game with four goals in an extra ordinary manner.''
He went on and apologise to the nation for the humiliation the team suffered.
''Please excuse us for this mistake. We are sorry we could not get to the final,'' he said. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
''Who is the one responsible? I am. This catastrophic result can be shared with the whole group, because that is what my players say and want, but I am the one who chooses the tactics, the lineup, so the person responsible for the result is me,'' Luis Scolari said.
Brazil missed two key players - Neymar and the team captain Silva were not involved in the match. Neymar had injury, while Silva was serving a match ban, due to yellow cards.
He disagreed with the suggestion that Brazil performed badly, because their star player - Neymar did not play.
''Lets not try to find excuses. What happened was that Germany imposed a fantastic rhythm and was able in two or three moments to define the match.
It has nothing to do with Neymar,'' he said.
Miroslav Klose - The Goal Merchant
Miroslav Klose (36), of Germany has achieved the record, as the highest goal scorer in the history of the World Cup tournaments, after scoring his 16th goal in his country's 7 - 1 dismantling of Brazil in the semi-final encounter, at the Belo Horizonte on Tuesday.
Up until this tournament in Brazil, the legend Brazilian striker Ronaldo was the highest World Cup goal scorer at 15 goals.
Klose came to this World Cup having scored 14 goals in previous three tournaments, and needed to score one to equal that of Ronaldo. He did that in the group phase match against Ghana.
He scored one of their 2 - 2 draws goals in that match. And that goal put him at par with Ronaldo's 15 goals, but that was not enough for the goal scoring machine.
He had to surpass Ronaldo and be on top of World Cup goal scorers. The very gifted striker, with high sensitivity for goals, scored the German second goal in the semi-final, which took his goal-tally to 16.
The Polish born German Klose, is the highest goal scorer in Germany with 71 goals, in 136 appearances for the national team (Die Mannschaft).
He is only the third person to score in four different World Cups.
The other two players who scored in four World Cup were the Brazilian legend - Pele and the German Uwe Seeler, both in 1958, 1962, 1966 and 1970. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Gary Lineker, the former Tottenham and England striker, said about the amazing feat achieved by Klose,
''Klose is not a Ronaldo, or a Pele or that kind of footballer. He is a poacher but to break that record is a phenomenal achievement.''
The former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand said,
''He does not excite you outside the box but he is a pure goalscorer. When the ball comes into the box, he comes alive.''
His coach Joachim Loew, said that they were all happy and that he deserved the record, because at his age he is still playing at the highest level.
''Miro is incredible. To set the record and to do it in Brazil is a great performance. It really means a lot to all of us. This is a record.
''This is a record that could be beaten only by Thomas Mueller. We believe that he deserves it. Because at his age, he is still playing at the highest possible level,'' Mr Loew added.
Miroslav Klose was very very happy that he was able to achieve such a record. When asked why he did not do his usual flipping after scoring a goal he said that he was hit on his left foot as he was attempting a shot.
''I got hit in my left foot while attempting a shot and I was not able to do the flip.'' Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Up until this tournament in Brazil, the legend Brazilian striker Ronaldo was the highest World Cup goal scorer at 15 goals.
Klose came to this World Cup having scored 14 goals in previous three tournaments, and needed to score one to equal that of Ronaldo. He did that in the group phase match against Ghana.
 |
| Miroslav Klose celebrating his record achievement |
He scored one of their 2 - 2 draws goals in that match. And that goal put him at par with Ronaldo's 15 goals, but that was not enough for the goal scoring machine.
He had to surpass Ronaldo and be on top of World Cup goal scorers. The very gifted striker, with high sensitivity for goals, scored the German second goal in the semi-final, which took his goal-tally to 16.
The Polish born German Klose, is the highest goal scorer in Germany with 71 goals, in 136 appearances for the national team (Die Mannschaft).
He is only the third person to score in four different World Cups.
The other two players who scored in four World Cup were the Brazilian legend - Pele and the German Uwe Seeler, both in 1958, 1962, 1966 and 1970. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Gary Lineker, the former Tottenham and England striker, said about the amazing feat achieved by Klose,
''Klose is not a Ronaldo, or a Pele or that kind of footballer. He is a poacher but to break that record is a phenomenal achievement.''
The former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand said,
''He does not excite you outside the box but he is a pure goalscorer. When the ball comes into the box, he comes alive.''
His coach Joachim Loew, said that they were all happy and that he deserved the record, because at his age he is still playing at the highest level.
''Miro is incredible. To set the record and to do it in Brazil is a great performance. It really means a lot to all of us. This is a record.
''This is a record that could be beaten only by Thomas Mueller. We believe that he deserves it. Because at his age, he is still playing at the highest possible level,'' Mr Loew added.
Miroslav Klose was very very happy that he was able to achieve such a record. When asked why he did not do his usual flipping after scoring a goal he said that he was hit on his left foot as he was attempting a shot.
''I got hit in my left foot while attempting a shot and I was not able to do the flip.'' Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Monday, July 7, 2014
Djorkovic Beat Federer To The Wimbledon Crown
Serbia's Novak Djorkovic (27), defeated the Swiss tennis legend, Roger Federer (32), 6 - 7 (7 - 9), 6 - 4, 7 - 6 (7 - 4), 5 - 7, 6 - 4 in a five sets thriller at the 2014 Wimbledon final on Sunday, to clinch his second title of the tournament.
After the match, Djorkovic told the media, that it wasn't easy to win the fifth set after he lost the fourth set, which leveled the match at 2 - 2 sets.
He said that, he did not know how he managed to win the last set, of their hotly entertaining encounter. The match was so well fought, that either of the pair could have won it. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
''After losing the fourth set, it wasn't easy to go on and win the fifth set, I don't know how I did it,'' the happy Djorkovic said.
The Serbian who will as a result of this win becaome the new world number one player again next week, when the ranking is released, said that the tournament is the best in the world, and that he always wanted to win. He also said that, he was grateful to have done it in such a high level.
''This is the best tournament in the world, and the one I always wanted to win, so to be able to compete at such a high level, I am so grateful,'' he said.
After the match, Djorkovic told the media, that it wasn't easy to win the fifth set after he lost the fourth set, which leveled the match at 2 - 2 sets.
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| Novak Djorkovic kissing his trophy |
He said that, he did not know how he managed to win the last set, of their hotly entertaining encounter. The match was so well fought, that either of the pair could have won it. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
''After losing the fourth set, it wasn't easy to go on and win the fifth set, I don't know how I did it,'' the happy Djorkovic said.
The Serbian who will as a result of this win becaome the new world number one player again next week, when the ranking is released, said that the tournament is the best in the world, and that he always wanted to win. He also said that, he was grateful to have done it in such a high level.
''This is the best tournament in the world, and the one I always wanted to win, so to be able to compete at such a high level, I am so grateful,'' he said.
Friday, July 4, 2014
Germany Books Semi - Final Spot
Germany has book their semi - final spot in the on going Fifa World Cup, after beating France 1 - 0 in the quarter final match on Friday, in the Estadio de Maracana in Rio de Janeiro.
In the 12th minute of play, defender Mats Hummel scored a header over Varane Raphael, through a Toni Kroos free - kick. Hummel out jumped the French defender, to score the only goal of the match.
Even though, the game was not a high tempo and very combatant or thrilling as expected, before the match began the Germans managed to hold onto their earlier goal to the end.
One had expected that after the break, the French would up their game and bring in a sense of urgency into their game, but they did not do that.
Although, they used counter attacks and long balls, the Germans were able to handle them very effectively.
The Germans dominated the midfield but their ever capable goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, made a number of vital saves to deny the French an equalizer. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
After the match the French coach, Didier Deschamps, said to the media
''Although our adventure in Brazil ends here and we're sad, disappointed and frustrated, we'll move on.
''I hope this group of players can play together for a long time. I have a lot work to do with them, but things are definitely promising.
''Today there wasn't much between the two sides. I thought we were a little bit timid at first and they scored early. After that we showed promise. We created chances and could have been more clinical, but Manuel Neuer had a good game,'' Deschamps added.
His opposite number Joachim Low, thought that his team did very well.
'' We played well, we played with a compact defence. They had some long balls against us, but we did a classy job taking care of those.''
''Our Our midfield did a very good job, disrupting their attack. We didn't have any organistion problems,'' Mr Low said.
''It was an incredible exciting match, but you can't expect anything else at the World Cup. Both teams were equals. Our team had fought hard to the end,'' Joachim Low said.
In the 12th minute of play, defender Mats Hummel scored a header over Varane Raphael, through a Toni Kroos free - kick. Hummel out jumped the French defender, to score the only goal of the match.
Even though, the game was not a high tempo and very combatant or thrilling as expected, before the match began the Germans managed to hold onto their earlier goal to the end.
 |
| Germans celebrating a goal |
One had expected that after the break, the French would up their game and bring in a sense of urgency into their game, but they did not do that.
Although, they used counter attacks and long balls, the Germans were able to handle them very effectively.
The Germans dominated the midfield but their ever capable goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, made a number of vital saves to deny the French an equalizer. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
After the match the French coach, Didier Deschamps, said to the media
''Although our adventure in Brazil ends here and we're sad, disappointed and frustrated, we'll move on.
''I hope this group of players can play together for a long time. I have a lot work to do with them, but things are definitely promising.
''Today there wasn't much between the two sides. I thought we were a little bit timid at first and they scored early. After that we showed promise. We created chances and could have been more clinical, but Manuel Neuer had a good game,'' Deschamps added.
His opposite number Joachim Low, thought that his team did very well.
'' We played well, we played with a compact defence. They had some long balls against us, but we did a classy job taking care of those.''
''Our Our midfield did a very good job, disrupting their attack. We didn't have any organistion problems,'' Mr Low said.
''It was an incredible exciting match, but you can't expect anything else at the World Cup. Both teams were equals. Our team had fought hard to the end,'' Joachim Low said.
Lewis Hamilton Inspired By Mohammed Ali
The 2008 Formular one (F1) champion, Louis Hamilton (29), who will be trying this weekend to win his home town race, in order to reduce the 29 points gap, between him in the second position and his Mercedez team-mate, Nico Rosberg on top of the driver's championship.
Hamilton told BBC, that he is very much inspired, by the boxing legend Mohammed Ali's fight, against George Forman in 1974 in Congo, which was dobbed, ''The Rumble In The Jungle.''
''I think about Mohammed Ali. He sat on the rope and let (Forman) have the upper hand, until he decided it was the right time to turn it around,'' he said.
''I am hoping I can do a similar thing. He inspires me in that fight. I am going to do everything to be out front.''
He believes that one winning his home town grand prix, is one of the greatest experiences a driver can have in his career.
''Winning your home grand prix, is one of the greatest experiences you can have as a driver,'' Hamilton said.
Louis Hamilton, has been battling with his Mercedez team-mate, for the top position on the driver's championship. Rosberg has won the last three races, hence the 29 points margin between them.
But Louis is hoping to win this weekend's Silverston race in the Uk, as he did in 2008. If he wins as he is planning to, then the difference in points will be cut down to the bearest minimum.
Hamilton has also had two bad lucks, of crashing out of two races already this year, and that was what affected his challenge to Rosberg.
''I'm hopeful I don't have any more bad luck with the non - finishes and it's time to turn things around,'' he added.
I wish him goodluck in the race. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Hamilton told BBC, that he is very much inspired, by the boxing legend Mohammed Ali's fight, against George Forman in 1974 in Congo, which was dobbed, ''The Rumble In The Jungle.''
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| Louis Hamilton |
''I think about Mohammed Ali. He sat on the rope and let (Forman) have the upper hand, until he decided it was the right time to turn it around,'' he said.
''I am hoping I can do a similar thing. He inspires me in that fight. I am going to do everything to be out front.''
He believes that one winning his home town grand prix, is one of the greatest experiences a driver can have in his career.
''Winning your home grand prix, is one of the greatest experiences you can have as a driver,'' Hamilton said.
Louis Hamilton, has been battling with his Mercedez team-mate, for the top position on the driver's championship. Rosberg has won the last three races, hence the 29 points margin between them.
But Louis is hoping to win this weekend's Silverston race in the Uk, as he did in 2008. If he wins as he is planning to, then the difference in points will be cut down to the bearest minimum.
Hamilton has also had two bad lucks, of crashing out of two races already this year, and that was what affected his challenge to Rosberg.
''I'm hopeful I don't have any more bad luck with the non - finishes and it's time to turn things around,'' he added.
I wish him goodluck in the race. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Dimitrov Defeats Wimbledon Champion - Andy Murray
Andy Murray (27), the defending Wimbledon champion was defeated in three sets 6 - 1, 7 - 6 (7 - 4), 6 - 2 by the young Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov, today the 2nd of July.
The 23 year old Bulgarian was in a very fine form especially with his terrific serves and defences.
Dimitrov who happened to be a friend of Murray, played so well that the defending champion was forced to make so many errors.
After the match was over the euphoric Dimitrov said, ''Today was one of those days, when I was pretty steady for the whole match and came out the winner.''
''It's tough when you know the person well outside the court and you have to face them. I have hopefully two more matches left, and I am just focusing on that, and trying not to get carried away,'' he said.
His friend Andy Murray, said that he played badly right from the start of the match, and gave his opponent the confidence to do very well.
''My start to the match was poor. I started the match badly and I think that gave him confidence. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
''I should have done a better job at the beginning of the match, making tougher for him, and I didn't manage to do that.
''Also, when I got back into the second set, that was my opportunity there,'' he added.
Anyway, he did not take the opportunity and he lost. Many of his fans were very disappointed especially the British fans, which included Prince William and Princess Catherine, who were in the stadium and watched the match.
The 23 year old Bulgarian was in a very fine form especially with his terrific serves and defences.
Dimitrov who happened to be a friend of Murray, played so well that the defending champion was forced to make so many errors.
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| Andy Murray |
''It's tough when you know the person well outside the court and you have to face them. I have hopefully two more matches left, and I am just focusing on that, and trying not to get carried away,'' he said.
His friend Andy Murray, said that he played badly right from the start of the match, and gave his opponent the confidence to do very well.
''My start to the match was poor. I started the match badly and I think that gave him confidence. Read also: africanfootie.blogspot.com
''I should have done a better job at the beginning of the match, making tougher for him, and I didn't manage to do that.
''Also, when I got back into the second set, that was my opportunity there,'' he added.
Anyway, he did not take the opportunity and he lost. Many of his fans were very disappointed especially the British fans, which included Prince William and Princess Catherine, who were in the stadium and watched the match.
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