The Nigeria's Super Eagles Legend Peter Rufai A K A Dodo Mayana has passed away.
May his soul rest in peace
The Nigeria's Super Eagles Legend Peter Rufai A K A Dodo Mayana has passed away.
May his soul rest in peace
Showing posts with label soccer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label soccer. Show all posts
Nigeria's Flamingos, Host Nation in Group A of FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup draw
Nigeria to face Dominican Republic, Ecuador, New Zealand in Group A
The Nigerian Flamingos have been drawn in Group A of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2024 in Dominican Republic.
Flamingos are drawn alongside hosts Dominican Republic, Ecuador and New Zealand as 16 teams are battle ready to compete for the title of world champions from October 16 to November 3.
The groups for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2024 was nveiled in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
This marks the first time the Dominican Republic will host a FIFA tournament.
Nigeria to face Dominican Republic, Ecuador, New Zealand in Group A
The Nigerian Flamingos have been drawn in Group A of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2024 in Dominican Republic.
Flamingos are drawn alongside hosts Dominican Republic, Ecuador and New Zealand as 16 teams are battle ready to compete for the title of world champions from October 16 to November 3.
The groups for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2024 was nveiled in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
This marks the first time the Dominican Republic will host a FIFA tournament.
Confederation of Africa Football CAF opens bid for three competitions
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has invited bids from interested countries for the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League, Africa U-20 Cup of Nations and Africa U-17 Cup of Nations.
Also, Africa’s soccer governing body is looking for host for CAF Awards 2024.
Nigerians duo of Victor Oshimen and Ashisat Oshoala are the current holders of male and female footbollrrs of the year.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has invited bids from interested countries for the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League, Africa U-20 Cup of Nations and Africa U-17 Cup of Nations.
Also, Africa’s soccer governing body is looking for host for CAF Awards 2024.
Nigerians duo of Victor Oshimen and Ashisat Oshoala are the current holders of male and female footbollrrs of the year.
Arsenal ready €100m Osimhen bid
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Nigerian Victor Osimhen will most likely end up at Arsenal, with Italian journalist Ciro Venerato reporting that the Premier League giants are ready to make a €100 million bid for the striker, which is €30 million short of the release clause set by Napoli in his recent contract. President of Napoli, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has made it clear that they will not entertain bids below his release clause, which would surpass Arsenal’s current transfer record of £105 million paid for Declan Rice last summer.
However, Arsenal hope to strike a deal for a more modest sum, around €100m or £85m. “[Arsenal] will now try with the Nigerian [who dreams of the Premier League], but not by paying the onerous amount of the clause, but a lower sum,” continued Venerato. “Napoli will have to evaluate the pros and cons.”
Nigerian Victor Osimhen will most likely end up at Arsenal, with Italian journalist Ciro Venerato reporting that the Premier League giants are ready to make a €100 million bid for the striker, which is €30 million short of the release clause set by Napoli in his recent contract. President of Napoli, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has made it clear that they will not entertain bids below his release clause, which would surpass Arsenal’s current transfer record of £105 million paid for Declan Rice last summer.
However, Arsenal hope to strike a deal for a more modest sum, around €100m or £85m. “[Arsenal] will now try with the Nigerian [who dreams of the Premier League], but not by paying the onerous amount of the clause, but a lower sum,” continued Venerato. “Napoli will have to evaluate the pros and cons.”
FINIDI GEORGE BOWS TO CRITICISMS, RESIGNS AS SUPER EAGLES CHIEF COACH
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| Finidi |
An unconfirmed Reports has it that the newly appointed super Eagles Coach FINIDI George has resigned his appointment as the chief coach after been relegated to deputy coach due to Eagles' loss to Benin Republic and a draw at home against South Africa in world cup qualifiers.
Finidi reportedly not pleased with working as an assistant under a foreign Technical Adviser as proposed by the NFF.
Consequently, he has resigned as head coach of the Super Eagles.
The Nigeria Football Federation came out with a press release after a meeting with the country's Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh and coach of the Super Eagles Finidi George on Thursday, June 13.
The Minister of Sports Development had demanded that the NFF urgently put in place the necessary framework to ensure Nigeria qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in addition to addressing issues that have hindered high performances and growth of Nigerian football.
The meeting held on Thursday at the Minister’s office in Abuja, touched on various areas including the current coach of the national team, the competence of both the NFF Technical Committee and Technical Department, discipline of players in the national team camp.
Nigeria's national team, the Super Eagles are walking the tightrope after four matchdays in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers as they trail group leaders Rwanda, South Africa and Republic of Benin by four points.
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| Finidi |
An unconfirmed Reports has it that the newly appointed super Eagles Coach FINIDI George has resigned his appointment as the chief coach after been relegated to deputy coach due to Eagles' loss to Benin Republic and a draw at home against South Africa in world cup qualifiers.
Finidi reportedly not pleased with working as an assistant under a foreign Technical Adviser as proposed by the NFF.
Consequently, he has resigned as head coach of the Super Eagles.
The Nigeria Football Federation came out with a press release after a meeting with the country's Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh and coach of the Super Eagles Finidi George on Thursday, June 13.
The Minister of Sports Development had demanded that the NFF urgently put in place the necessary framework to ensure Nigeria qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in addition to addressing issues that have hindered high performances and growth of Nigerian football.
The meeting held on Thursday at the Minister’s office in Abuja, touched on various areas including the current coach of the national team, the competence of both the NFF Technical Committee and Technical Department, discipline of players in the national team camp.
Nigeria's national team, the Super Eagles are walking the tightrope after four matchdays in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers as they trail group leaders Rwanda, South Africa and Republic of Benin by four points.
Paris 2024: Super Falcons Star Oshoala Says Nothing to fear About "Group of Death"
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Asisat Oshoala has said there is nothing to fear about the group of death as per Paris 2024.
She is upbeat the Super Falcons will make it past the group stage at the 2024 Olympic Games.
Nigeria's Super Falcons are drawn in Group C with world champions Spain, Brazil and Japan.
The former FC Barcelona Female striker claimed the Super Falcons are not afraid of the top teams in their group.
Nigeria's Super Falcons are drawn in Group C with world champions Spain, Brazil and Japan.
The former FC Barcelona Female striker claimed the Super Falcons are not afraid of the top teams in their group.
“At the World Cup last year, people said the same thing,” she told FIFA.com.
Asisat Oshoala has said there is nothing to fear about the group of death as per Paris 2024.
She is upbeat the Super Falcons will make it past the group stage at the 2024 Olympic Games.
Nigeria's Super Falcons are drawn in Group C with world champions Spain, Brazil and Japan.
The former FC Barcelona Female striker claimed the Super Falcons are not afraid of the top teams in their group.
Nigeria's Super Falcons are drawn in Group C with world champions Spain, Brazil and Japan.
The former FC Barcelona Female striker claimed the Super Falcons are not afraid of the top teams in their group.
“At the World Cup last year, people said the same thing,” she told FIFA.com.
Yoruba People Are So Loud... You Can Smell A Nigerian From A Mile Away - Iwobi Boasts
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| Alexander Chuka Iwobi |
Fulham and Super Eagles midfielder Alexander Chuka Iwobi has revealed what he loves about being a Nigerian.
Iwobi stated this in a recent interview with Kiss Fresh, London, United Kingdom.
When asked, “What do you love about Nigerians and being Nigerian?” Iwobi replied, “You can smell a Nigerian from a mile away. Our mannerisms are so Nigerian, especially Yoruba people. Yoruba people are so loud.
"My favourite thing about the country is that everyone is so welcoming, rich in hospitality and it’s like one big family. Everyone who is doing well tries to give back to their communities. Every footballer that I am with always try to give back to where they come from. That’s an amazing thing.
“The first thing I do whenever I land in Nigeria and I’m in my hotel room, I order pounded yam and egusi.”
On his choice of Nigeria instead of England, Iwobi stated he respects England but feels more at home in Nigeria, adding that football in Nigeria is like a festival, stressing that the entertaining atmosphere in Nigerian stadia gives him a sense of belonging.
“I actually felt more at home in Nigeria. Football out there is like a festival, it’s like a party. You go into the game, you see people blowing trumpets, and drums, it doesn’t even feel like a proper match. I was like, ‘Yeah, this is where I belong.’
“Of course, I have respect for England but I have no regret in choosing Nigeria.”
Iwobi represented England up to under-18 level. He made his senior international debut for Nigeria in October 2015.
The 28 years old Alexander Chuka Iwobi MON is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Premier League club Fulham and the Nigeria national team.
Iwobi began his career at Arsenal, making 149 appearances and scoring fifteen goals.
The Playmaker is expected to boss the Super Eagles midfield when they play South Africa next weekend.
Source: Social media
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| Alexander Chuka Iwobi |
Fulham and Super Eagles midfielder Alexander Chuka Iwobi has revealed what he loves about being a Nigerian.
Iwobi stated this in a recent interview with Kiss Fresh, London, United Kingdom.
When asked, “What do you love about Nigerians and being Nigerian?” Iwobi replied, “You can smell a Nigerian from a mile away. Our mannerisms are so Nigerian, especially Yoruba people. Yoruba people are so loud.
"My favourite thing about the country is that everyone is so welcoming, rich in hospitality and it’s like one big family. Everyone who is doing well tries to give back to their communities. Every footballer that I am with always try to give back to where they come from. That’s an amazing thing.
“The first thing I do whenever I land in Nigeria and I’m in my hotel room, I order pounded yam and egusi.”
On his choice of Nigeria instead of England, Iwobi stated he respects England but feels more at home in Nigeria, adding that football in Nigeria is like a festival, stressing that the entertaining atmosphere in Nigerian stadia gives him a sense of belonging.
“I actually felt more at home in Nigeria. Football out there is like a festival, it’s like a party. You go into the game, you see people blowing trumpets, and drums, it doesn’t even feel like a proper match. I was like, ‘Yeah, this is where I belong.’
“Of course, I have respect for England but I have no regret in choosing Nigeria.”
Iwobi represented England up to under-18 level. He made his senior international debut for Nigeria in October 2015.
The 28 years old Alexander Chuka Iwobi MON is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Premier League club Fulham and the Nigeria national team.
Iwobi began his career at Arsenal, making 149 appearances and scoring fifteen goals.
The Playmaker is expected to boss the Super Eagles midfield when they play South Africa next weekend.
Source: Social media
Purple Track Considered Fastest in Olympic History Unveiled
First-of-its-kind newly installed Purple Track at the Stade de France, (The France National Stadium), Paris has been unveiled for 2024 Paris Olympic Games. This track has been described as the fastest in Olympic history.
Legendary Carl Lewis had the rare honour of unveiling the colourful tracks which will play host to athletes World over starting from the 1st of August, 202. The beautiful stadium situated in Saint-Denis will be looking to host spectators to its full capacity of 80,698.
The ingenious purple track called the Mondo track is different from the traditional terracotta and engineered to be the fastest surface yet, capable of creating a delightsome and exciting time for athletes who will be gracing the summer games.
The track adorns two beautiful shades of purple - one for competition areas and another for the technical areas, all designed to enhance the visual experience. This promises a splendid output for TV broadcasts and media coverage, ensuring we all don’t miss out on even the tiniest details of our athlete’s performances.
One more thing – expect record breaking performances, Olympics Record obliterated, World Records smashed with fresh ones ‘installed’.
©Ifeoluwa Leo
Your Sports Analyst
Please follow Ifeoluwa Leo-Olagbaye for your precise, in-depth match analysis and detailed sports update.
First-of-its-kind newly installed Purple Track at the Stade de France, (The France National Stadium), Paris has been unveiled for 2024 Paris Olympic Games. This track has been described as the fastest in Olympic history.
Legendary Carl Lewis had the rare honour of unveiling the colourful tracks which will play host to athletes World over starting from the 1st of August, 202. The beautiful stadium situated in Saint-Denis will be looking to host spectators to its full capacity of 80,698.
The ingenious purple track called the Mondo track is different from the traditional terracotta and engineered to be the fastest surface yet, capable of creating a delightsome and exciting time for athletes who will be gracing the summer games.
The track adorns two beautiful shades of purple - one for competition areas and another for the technical areas, all designed to enhance the visual experience. This promises a splendid output for TV broadcasts and media coverage, ensuring we all don’t miss out on even the tiniest details of our athlete’s performances.
One more thing – expect record breaking performances, Olympics Record obliterated, World Records smashed with fresh ones ‘installed’.
©Ifeoluwa Leo
Your Sports Analyst
Please follow Ifeoluwa Leo-Olagbaye for your precise, in-depth match analysis and detailed sports update.
French Women's League: Super Falcons' Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie won the Best Goalkeeper Award
Nigeria's Super Falcons Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has won the Best Goalkeeper Award in the French Women's League.
Nnadozie emerged the first African to win both the National Union of Professional Footballers (UNFP) Best Goalkeeper Award and French D1 Arkema Goalkeeper of the Year Award.
Congratulations to Naija Girl! Congratulations Agba baller!
Nigeria's Super Falcons Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has won the Best Goalkeeper Award in the French Women's League.
Nnadozie emerged the first African to win both the National Union of Professional Footballers (UNFP) Best Goalkeeper Award and French D1 Arkema Goalkeeper of the Year Award.
Congratulations to Naija Girl! Congratulations Agba baller!
Nigeria's football governing body, NFF appoints Ex—Super Eagles player Emmanuel Amunike as the coach of the Senior National Team
Nigeria's football governing body, NFF appoints Ex—Super Eagles player Emmanuel Amunike as the coach of the Senior National Team
Nigeria Football Federation, NFF has officially appointed Super Eagles Legend Emmanuel Amunike as the New head coach of the Nigeria national team Super Eagles.
Emmanuel Amunike, a former Barcelona, Zamalek and Sporting Lisbon winger who excelled as coach of the Golden Eaglets, leading the Nigeria U17 national team to win the FIFA U17 World Cup have won the race for the head coach position of the Super Eagles.
The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, decided to go with Amunike as the substantive head coach of the national team.
Amunike also impressed as head coach of the Tanzanian national team, guiding the Taifa Stars to qualify for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations – their first in nearly forty years.
However, Amunike’s record with Egypt’s Misr Lel Makkasa and Zambia’s Zanaco left much to be desired.
The 53-year-old coach also fumbled when placed in charge of the Flying Eagles, failing to help the Nigeria U20 team qualify for the AFCON in 2017.
Aside from Amunike, USA U20 national team coach Michael Nsien, former Manchester City assistant manager Domenec Torrent, and Fortuna Sittard coach Danny Bruijs were all running to become the Super Eagles head coach.
Nigeria Football Federation, NFF has officially appointed Super Eagles Legend Emmanuel Amunike as the New head coach of the Nigeria national team Super Eagles.
Emmanuel Amunike, a former Barcelona, Zamalek and Sporting Lisbon winger who excelled as coach of the Golden Eaglets, leading the Nigeria U17 national team to win the FIFA U17 World Cup have won the race for the head coach position of the Super Eagles.
The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, decided to go with Amunike as the substantive head coach of the national team.
Amunike also impressed as head coach of the Tanzanian national team, guiding the Taifa Stars to qualify for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations – their first in nearly forty years.
However, Amunike’s record with Egypt’s Misr Lel Makkasa and Zambia’s Zanaco left much to be desired.
The 53-year-old coach also fumbled when placed in charge of the Flying Eagles, failing to help the Nigeria U20 team qualify for the AFCON in 2017.
Aside from Amunike, USA U20 national team coach Michael Nsien, former Manchester City assistant manager Domenec Torrent, and Fortuna Sittard coach Danny Bruijs were all running to become the Super Eagles head coach.
#AFCON: Gabon, Nigeria Eliminated as Bokina Faso, Tunisia progress to Quarter Final
Gabon and Nigeria have been eliminated in the ongoing African Nations Cup in Cameron.
The first match of the the round of sixteen between Bokina babes saw Gabon if through penalty shootout after the match ended 1:1.
In the second game of the the day, which was the battle of the Eagles, Nigeria list by 1:0 to Tunisia.
Gabon and Nigeria have been eliminated in the ongoing African Nations Cup in Cameron.
The first match of the the round of sixteen between Bokina babes saw Gabon if through penalty shootout after the match ended 1:1.
In the second game of the the day, which was the battle of the Eagles, Nigeria list by 1:0 to Tunisia.
#AFCON: Nigeria's Super Eagles defeat Guinea Bissau 2:0
Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated the national team of the Guinea Bissau by two goals to zero as the Nigeria team proceeds to the round of sixteen of the ongoing African Nations Cup in Cameron.
The two goals came in the second half from Sadiq and Eking.
Eagles in their opening match defeated Pharos of Egypt by 1:0 . Their second match against Sudan ended 3:1 as they secured the 9 full points of the group D.
Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated the national team of the Guinea Bissau by two goals to zero as the Nigeria team proceeds to the round of sixteen of the ongoing African Nations Cup in Cameron.
The two goals came in the second half from Sadiq and Eking.
Eagles in their opening match defeated Pharos of Egypt by 1:0 . Their second match against Sudan ended 3:1 as they secured the 9 full points of the group D.
#AFCON: Nigeria's Super Eagles beat Sudan 3:1, through to next stage
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are through to the next stage in the ongoing African Nations Cup in Cameron having secured six maximum points.
The Eagles defeated the Sudanese National team 3:1 to secure another three point after defeating the Pharos of Egypt 1:0 in their opening match.
So, the three Goals scored by Samuel Chukwueze in the third minute, Taiwo Awoniyi (45th), and Moses Simon (46th) were all the three-time AFCON winners needed to progress to the second round of the tournament.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are through to the next stage in the ongoing African Nations Cup in Cameron having secured six maximum points.
The Eagles defeated the Sudanese National team 3:1 to secure another three point after defeating the Pharos of Egypt 1:0 in their opening match.
So, the three Goals scored by Samuel Chukwueze in the third minute, Taiwo Awoniyi (45th), and Moses Simon (46th) were all the three-time AFCON winners needed to progress to the second round of the tournament.
#AFCON: Almighty Sallah was no where To Be Find as Nigeria's Super Eagles Defeat Pharos of Egypt
The Liverpool and Egyptian international star M. Shalla was no where to be found on the pitch to save the Pharos as the Eagles sealed the opening three points.
This is a deserved victory for Eagles of Nigeria.
Aside Mo Sallah (Liverpool), Trezeguet (Aston Villa) the star player was also pocketed throughout the entire match
The super Eagles' head coach Austin Eguavoen showed his strength as top class defender during his playing days.
Congratulations to the Eagles and all Nigerians.
The Liverpool and Egyptian international star M. Shalla was no where to be found on the pitch to save the Pharos as the Eagles sealed the opening three points.
This is a deserved victory for Eagles of Nigeria.
Aside Mo Sallah (Liverpool), Trezeguet (Aston Villa) the star player was also pocketed throughout the entire match
The super Eagles' head coach Austin Eguavoen showed his strength as top class defender during his playing days.
Congratulations to the Eagles and all Nigerians.
Jide Sowore's Burial: our Gratitude
Today, I am returning to you ALL for your support, companionship and sympathy extended towards our family over the untimely but gruesome murder of our beloved brother, Olajide Sowore.
Of particular note are those early callers who commiserated with our family when this dastardly incident broke, we must here specially mention our comrades who took the risk to be physically present at his funeral and those who joined virtually across the world and stayed till my brother was interned at Kiribo, our home town.
We send our regards to compatriots who defy our family rejection of fundraising to provide their token of support to our brother’s immediate family.
We are immensely grateful to each and everyone who took out tome to drop a comment, salutations and words of encouragement throughout this period.
Finally we thank the authorities of Igbinedion University in Okada for their generosity in providing a motor hearse to convey our brother to his final resting place.
It is important to state that our commitment by oining in popular efforts to bring about revolutionary change in Nigeria remains unwavering.
Felix Olajide Sowore was killed near Okada in Edo state by the yet to be identify suspected herdsmen.
Insecurity under Major Gen Muhammadu Buhari led pro fulani herdsmen federal government has claimed uncountable lives.
Today, I am returning to you ALL for your support, companionship and sympathy extended towards our family over the untimely but gruesome murder of our beloved brother, Olajide Sowore.
Of particular note are those early callers who commiserated with our family when this dastardly incident broke, we must here specially mention our comrades who took the risk to be physically present at his funeral and those who joined virtually across the world and stayed till my brother was interned at Kiribo, our home town.
We send our regards to compatriots who defy our family rejection of fundraising to provide their token of support to our brother’s immediate family.
We are immensely grateful to each and everyone who took out tome to drop a comment, salutations and words of encouragement throughout this period.
Finally we thank the authorities of Igbinedion University in Okada for their generosity in providing a motor hearse to convey our brother to his final resting place.
It is important to state that our commitment by oining in popular efforts to bring about revolutionary change in Nigeria remains unwavering.
Felix Olajide Sowore was killed near Okada in Edo state by the yet to be identify suspected herdsmen.
Insecurity under Major Gen Muhammadu Buhari led pro fulani herdsmen federal government has claimed uncountable lives.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus crash out of the Champions League after agonizing extra-time away-goals defeat to Porto
Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus crash out of the Champions League after agonizing extra-time away-goals defeat to Porto
(RT) Juventus have been ousted from the Champions League at the first knockout stage for the second straight season – suffering even more despair than they did last year by losing on aggregate to 10-man Porto via a 115th-minute goal.
In one of the most dramatic, unpredictable games of the season so far, Juventus repeated the rigmarole of their second leg of the round of 16 against Lyon last season, when they started as favorites despite being a goal down, only to swiftly concede a penalty.
This time, the inspirational Sérgio Oliveira, who was Player of the Match in both legs, sent goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny the wrong way from the spot after 19 minutes in Turin to put Porto within sight of the quarterfinals.
With Porto 2-1 up from the first leg, the first goal was always likely to be crucial in the return. Having only conceded to Manchester City and Juve in the tournament so far this season, Porto looked comfortable and occasionally threatening for the rest of the first half.
10-man Porto eliminate Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus on away goal rules.Juventus won 3-2 but crashed out of #UCL on 4-4 aggregate. pic.twitter.com/BgzKQVINva— @Molatsportgist suspended (@chubbyMO_) March 9, 2021
Juventus knocked out of the Champions League in successive seasons by Ajax, Lyon and Porto. Three clubs not deemed "glamorous" enough for the European Super League by Juve chairman Andrea Agnelli. You absolutely love to see it.— Colin Millar (@Millar_Colin) March 9, 2021
All that would change in fewer than 20 second-half minutes. Federico Chiesa curled a stylish finish into the far corner of the net following a delicate Ronaldo set-up inside the penalty area four minutes after the break, and Mehdi Taremi was then bizarrely sent off for a second yellow card for kicking the ball away before Chiesa struck again.
Colombia winger Juan Cuadrado seemed to spend the entire night providing his teammates with a succession of crosses that were easier to score from than miss, so there could have been no complaints had his vicious diagonal strike from inside the penalty area gone in rather than smashed against the crossbar.
Chiesa beat keeper Agustin Marchesin with his pace but was somehow denied by heroic Pepe with the goal gaping, summing up a night when the Porto captain rose from a spell of medical treatment on more than one occasion to produce the most tackles and headed clearances of anyone on the pitch, putting himself in the way of almost every dangerous opportunity Juve would create.
August 7, 2020:Lyon knock Juventus out in the Ro16March 9, 2021:Porto knock Juventus out in the Ro16Twice in seven months 🙃 pic.twitter.com/fhbjRNhANT— B/R Football (@brfootball) March 9, 2021
Cristiano Ronaldo since joining Juventus to "win the champions league"2018: Lost To Ajax (Quarter-Final) 2019: Lost To Lyon (Round of 16) 2020: Lost To Porto (Round of 16) With 9 Consecutive Serie A titles & the historic 10th in a row in doubt, was this transfer a failure? pic.twitter.com/Tc45xx9BuB— DKM 🏀⚽️ (@DKM_Sports) March 9, 2021
Ronaldo gave a hallmark look of despair after heading a Cuadrado cross wide from close range, and the momentum clearly appeared to be in his side's favor the longer the match went on against worn and depleted opponents.
Juventus are still yet to convincingly prove their collective spirit. Porto have an abundance of that, seeing them through to the 115th minute, when Oliveira tried his luck from distance, having survived Alvaro Morata suffering a goal ruled out for offside and Ronaldo being denied at close range by Marchesin.
It is hard to imagine Pepe and Porto's defensive wall turning their backs and jumping as aimlessly as Ronaldo and the rest of the Juventus line, supposedly set up to defend the free kick from a considerable distance, did when Oliveira thumped a low shot towards the near post, creeping beyond Szczesny.
Pepe was immense tonight 💪🏽 Had this man in his pocket 🤭#PortoJuventuspic.twitter.com/doSKbVgAUR— Lincoln Burrows (@KBurrows0) March 9, 2021
PEPE Emptying his Pocket after the match Juventus V FC Porto #ChampionsLeague morata Ronaldo pic.twitter.com/jCOVtIlZ8y— 🌟 GAINwithMID ⭕ (@CFCMid) March 9, 2021
With two away goals against them, Juventus now needed to score as many goals in five minutes or so as they had in a little under two hours. To their credit, they managed half the bargain as Adrien Rabiot powered in a header almost immediately.
There was even time for three or four half-chances around the Porto penalty area after that, Ronaldo seeing sight of goal and Pepe providing an acrobatic clearance at one point, despite having gone to ground clutching his hamstring not long beforehand.
Porto's aggregate win was deserved. Juventus only really showed the necessary urgency in the final 75 minutes of a 180-minute tie and, as was the case last season, that apparent lack of consistency and focus cost them dearly, albeit via some misfortune and an exit by the narrowest of margins.
Juventus were throwing everything at Porto 💥After 123 minutes, the ball was thumped into the penalty area 😬And 38-year-old Pepe pulled out the bicycle kick clearance 👏 pic.twitter.com/OooL7jDFPE— Goal (@goal) March 9, 2021
Sarri won the scudeto (Seria A) with Juventus in his first season, using Penaldo. Pirlo in his first season doesn’t seem like it😣 Rt for Sarri Like for PirloRonaldo Porto #ChampionsLeaguepic.twitter.com/BovIGg2Gaf— @D’SOYE🤩🩸 (@Opeyemi15293568) March 9, 2021
A two-time Champions League winner as a player with Milan, Pirlo's future at Juventus is now surely in doubt. The rookie manager was hired last year after Maurizio Sarri's failure to guide the club beyond the Champions League round of 16, and Pirlo faces a tough task to at least continue Juve's long run of domestic league titles, as Sarri did reasonably comfortably.
Pirlo argued that he has a long-term project and has faith in his players, who have taken the club to third in Serie A, ten points behind leaders Inter ahead of the closing stages of the season.
At 36 and with his contract expiring in 2022, Ronaldo must be questioning whether he wants to remain part of a squad led by an unproven manager whose achievements to date would be considered a failure had they been provided by an established coach without Pirlo's status in the game.
Remaining at Juve amid the uncertainty of another managerial change would also be a risky way to target major late-career silverware. Ronaldo is running out of chances to win the Champions League almost as quickly as Juventus seemed to run out of ideas against a functional, determined, deeply spirited but ultimately unspectacular Porto side who look like gatekeepers to winning this season's competition.
If PSG eliminates Barcelona tomorrow, we will watch the UCL quarter-finals without Messi and Ronaldo for the first time since the 2004-05 season
(RT) Juventus have been ousted from the Champions League at the first knockout stage for the second straight season – suffering even more despair than they did last year by losing on aggregate to 10-man Porto via a 115th-minute goal.
In one of the most dramatic, unpredictable games of the season so far, Juventus repeated the rigmarole of their second leg of the round of 16 against Lyon last season, when they started as favorites despite being a goal down, only to swiftly concede a penalty.
This time, the inspirational Sérgio Oliveira, who was Player of the Match in both legs, sent goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny the wrong way from the spot after 19 minutes in Turin to put Porto within sight of the quarterfinals.
With Porto 2-1 up from the first leg, the first goal was always likely to be crucial in the return. Having only conceded to Manchester City and Juve in the tournament so far this season, Porto looked comfortable and occasionally threatening for the rest of the first half.
10-man Porto eliminate Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus on away goal rules.Juventus won 3-2 but crashed out of #UCL on 4-4 aggregate. pic.twitter.com/BgzKQVINva— @Molatsportgist suspended (@chubbyMO_) March 9, 2021
Juventus knocked out of the Champions League in successive seasons by Ajax, Lyon and Porto. Three clubs not deemed "glamorous" enough for the European Super League by Juve chairman Andrea Agnelli. You absolutely love to see it.— Colin Millar (@Millar_Colin) March 9, 2021
All that would change in fewer than 20 second-half minutes. Federico Chiesa curled a stylish finish into the far corner of the net following a delicate Ronaldo set-up inside the penalty area four minutes after the break, and Mehdi Taremi was then bizarrely sent off for a second yellow card for kicking the ball away before Chiesa struck again.
Colombia winger Juan Cuadrado seemed to spend the entire night providing his teammates with a succession of crosses that were easier to score from than miss, so there could have been no complaints had his vicious diagonal strike from inside the penalty area gone in rather than smashed against the crossbar.
Chiesa beat keeper Agustin Marchesin with his pace but was somehow denied by heroic Pepe with the goal gaping, summing up a night when the Porto captain rose from a spell of medical treatment on more than one occasion to produce the most tackles and headed clearances of anyone on the pitch, putting himself in the way of almost every dangerous opportunity Juve would create.
August 7, 2020:Lyon knock Juventus out in the Ro16March 9, 2021:Porto knock Juventus out in the Ro16Twice in seven months 🙃 pic.twitter.com/fhbjRNhANT— B/R Football (@brfootball) March 9, 2021
Cristiano Ronaldo since joining Juventus to "win the champions league"2018: Lost To Ajax (Quarter-Final) 2019: Lost To Lyon (Round of 16) 2020: Lost To Porto (Round of 16) With 9 Consecutive Serie A titles & the historic 10th in a row in doubt, was this transfer a failure? pic.twitter.com/Tc45xx9BuB— DKM 🏀⚽️ (@DKM_Sports) March 9, 2021
Ronaldo gave a hallmark look of despair after heading a Cuadrado cross wide from close range, and the momentum clearly appeared to be in his side's favor the longer the match went on against worn and depleted opponents.
Juventus are still yet to convincingly prove their collective spirit. Porto have an abundance of that, seeing them through to the 115th minute, when Oliveira tried his luck from distance, having survived Alvaro Morata suffering a goal ruled out for offside and Ronaldo being denied at close range by Marchesin.
It is hard to imagine Pepe and Porto's defensive wall turning their backs and jumping as aimlessly as Ronaldo and the rest of the Juventus line, supposedly set up to defend the free kick from a considerable distance, did when Oliveira thumped a low shot towards the near post, creeping beyond Szczesny.
Pepe was immense tonight 💪🏽 Had this man in his pocket 🤭#PortoJuventuspic.twitter.com/doSKbVgAUR— Lincoln Burrows (@KBurrows0) March 9, 2021
PEPE Emptying his Pocket after the match Juventus V FC Porto #ChampionsLeague morata Ronaldo pic.twitter.com/jCOVtIlZ8y— 🌟 GAINwithMID ⭕ (@CFCMid) March 9, 2021
With two away goals against them, Juventus now needed to score as many goals in five minutes or so as they had in a little under two hours. To their credit, they managed half the bargain as Adrien Rabiot powered in a header almost immediately.
There was even time for three or four half-chances around the Porto penalty area after that, Ronaldo seeing sight of goal and Pepe providing an acrobatic clearance at one point, despite having gone to ground clutching his hamstring not long beforehand.
Porto's aggregate win was deserved. Juventus only really showed the necessary urgency in the final 75 minutes of a 180-minute tie and, as was the case last season, that apparent lack of consistency and focus cost them dearly, albeit via some misfortune and an exit by the narrowest of margins.
Juventus were throwing everything at Porto 💥After 123 minutes, the ball was thumped into the penalty area 😬And 38-year-old Pepe pulled out the bicycle kick clearance 👏 pic.twitter.com/OooL7jDFPE— Goal (@goal) March 9, 2021
Sarri won the scudeto (Seria A) with Juventus in his first season, using Penaldo. Pirlo in his first season doesn’t seem like it😣 Rt for Sarri Like for PirloRonaldo Porto #ChampionsLeaguepic.twitter.com/BovIGg2Gaf— @D’SOYE🤩🩸 (@Opeyemi15293568) March 9, 2021
A two-time Champions League winner as a player with Milan, Pirlo's future at Juventus is now surely in doubt. The rookie manager was hired last year after Maurizio Sarri's failure to guide the club beyond the Champions League round of 16, and Pirlo faces a tough task to at least continue Juve's long run of domestic league titles, as Sarri did reasonably comfortably.
Pirlo argued that he has a long-term project and has faith in his players, who have taken the club to third in Serie A, ten points behind leaders Inter ahead of the closing stages of the season.
At 36 and with his contract expiring in 2022, Ronaldo must be questioning whether he wants to remain part of a squad led by an unproven manager whose achievements to date would be considered a failure had they been provided by an established coach without Pirlo's status in the game.
Remaining at Juve amid the uncertainty of another managerial change would also be a risky way to target major late-career silverware. Ronaldo is running out of chances to win the Champions League almost as quickly as Juventus seemed to run out of ideas against a functional, determined, deeply spirited but ultimately unspectacular Porto side who look like gatekeepers to winning this season's competition.
If PSG eliminates Barcelona tomorrow, we will watch the UCL quarter-finals without Messi and Ronaldo for the first time since the 2004-05 season
Bayern Munich’s Sarr reveals ultimate France dream
Bayern Munich winger Bouna Sarr is focused on representing France at the 2021 European Championship. The 28-year-old winger of Senegalese and Guinean origin has set his sights on representing Les Bleus in the 2021 European Championship
Born to a Senegalese father and a Guinean mother in Lyon, France, the 28-year-old had been invited by coach Didier Deschamps in November ahead of the Uefa Nations League games versus Portugal and Sweden – however, an injury then ruled him out.
Nevertheless, Sarr revealed that his immediate ambition is to play for the reigning world champions when Euro 2021 gets underway, while disclosing that his move to the Allianz Arena giants would draw him closer to that ‘big target’.
“There’s a word in French that’s even stronger than fighting… Perhaps you could translate as: I’m sweating blood for this big target,” Sarr told Bayern Munich magazine.
Bayern Munich winger Bouna Sarr is focused on representing France at the 2021 European Championship. The 28-year-old winger of Senegalese and Guinean origin has set his sights on representing Les Bleus in the 2021 European Championship
Born to a Senegalese father and a Guinean mother in Lyon, France, the 28-year-old had been invited by coach Didier Deschamps in November ahead of the Uefa Nations League games versus Portugal and Sweden – however, an injury then ruled him out.
Nevertheless, Sarr revealed that his immediate ambition is to play for the reigning world champions when Euro 2021 gets underway, while disclosing that his move to the Allianz Arena giants would draw him closer to that ‘big target’.
“There’s a word in French that’s even stronger than fighting… Perhaps you could translate as: I’m sweating blood for this big target,” Sarr told Bayern Munich magazine.
PSG sack Tuchel, Pochettino favourite to take over
Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who had been at the club since July 2018, but did not name his successor.
Argentinian Mauricio Pochettino, the ex-Tottenham coach and a former PSG player, is widely reported to be the favourite to take over.
Tuchel, whose axing was widely reported but unconfirmed last week, managed PSG 127 times in all competitions, with 95 wins, 12 draws and 20 defeats.
His trophy haul featured two Ligue 1 titles (2019, 2020) as well as the French Cup and French League Cup in 2020.
The 47-year-old German also led the Parisian club to their first ever Champions League final last August, which they lost 1-0 to Bayern Munich.
Despite appearing to be adept at man-managing PSG's squad of superstar players such as Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, Tuchel reportedly upset the Qatari-backed club after complaining about an apparent lack of recognition at leading PSG to the Champions League final.
"I would like to thank Thomas Tuchel and his staff for all they have contributed to the club," said PSG chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi.
"Thomas has put a lot of energy and passion into the job, and we will of course remember the good moments we shared together. I wish him all the best for the future."
Less than three months on from the final defeat to Bayern Munich in Lisbon, Tuchel has become the first PSG coach to leave mid-season since Antoine Kombouare was replaced by Carlo Ancelotti in December 2011.
- Barca date looms -
Tuchel departs the Parc des Princes having secured a last 16 Champions League clash with Barcelona and PSG sitting third in Ligue 1 -- a point shy of leaders Lyon -- despite being plagued by injuries, suspensions and coronavirus infections.
Should Pochettino take over, his opening match in charge will be January 6's trip to Saint-Etienne on Ligue 1's resumption after the winter break.
Then, on February 16, the Argentinian could face his first massive test against his compatriot Lionel Messi's Barcelona, with the return leg on March 6.
Pochettino was let go after five and a half years at Tottenham in the aftermath of leading the north London side to their first ever appearance in a Champions League final against Liverpool in 2019.
Although he has yet to win any silverware the former PSG defender's stock is high in managerial circles.
The Parisians will be keen to complete his signing and avoid missing their man who has been linked to the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester United and Barca in recent months.
Importantly, Pochettino, like Tuchel, is at ease in man-managing a dressing room crammed with a galaxy of stars.
Neymar has been at the centre of new controversy this week after Brazilian media reported that he is organising a huge New Year's Eve party despite the coronavirus pandemic -- claims his lawyers have denied.
Pochettino is the son of a farmer from Murphy, in the north of Argentina.
He is known as a stickler for detail, which coupled with his tactical acumen, devotion to an attractive style of play and his popularity amongst Parisian fans, makes him a potentially ideal fit as the new occupant of the PSG dugout.
He would have under his wing several compatriots such as Mauro Icardi, Angel Di Maria and Leandro Paredes.
His anticipated arrival before the winter transfer window will allow him to bring in new faces, potentially one former Spurs charge, Inter Milan's attacking midfielder Christian Eriksen.
And looking further ahead, given their Argentine ties, Pochettino may be the catalyst for six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi to start regarding PSG as potential new employers when he is free to move from the Camp Nou at the end of the season.
"After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement.
Argentinian Mauricio Pochettino, the ex-Tottenham coach and a former PSG player, is widely reported to be the favourite to take over.
Tuchel, whose axing was widely reported but unconfirmed last week, managed PSG 127 times in all competitions, with 95 wins, 12 draws and 20 defeats.
His trophy haul featured two Ligue 1 titles (2019, 2020) as well as the French Cup and French League Cup in 2020.
The 47-year-old German also led the Parisian club to their first ever Champions League final last August, which they lost 1-0 to Bayern Munich.
Despite appearing to be adept at man-managing PSG's squad of superstar players such as Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, Tuchel reportedly upset the Qatari-backed club after complaining about an apparent lack of recognition at leading PSG to the Champions League final.
"I would like to thank Thomas Tuchel and his staff for all they have contributed to the club," said PSG chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi.
"Thomas has put a lot of energy and passion into the job, and we will of course remember the good moments we shared together. I wish him all the best for the future."
Less than three months on from the final defeat to Bayern Munich in Lisbon, Tuchel has become the first PSG coach to leave mid-season since Antoine Kombouare was replaced by Carlo Ancelotti in December 2011.
- Barca date looms -
Tuchel departs the Parc des Princes having secured a last 16 Champions League clash with Barcelona and PSG sitting third in Ligue 1 -- a point shy of leaders Lyon -- despite being plagued by injuries, suspensions and coronavirus infections.
Should Pochettino take over, his opening match in charge will be January 6's trip to Saint-Etienne on Ligue 1's resumption after the winter break.
Then, on February 16, the Argentinian could face his first massive test against his compatriot Lionel Messi's Barcelona, with the return leg on March 6.
Pochettino was let go after five and a half years at Tottenham in the aftermath of leading the north London side to their first ever appearance in a Champions League final against Liverpool in 2019.
Although he has yet to win any silverware the former PSG defender's stock is high in managerial circles.
The Parisians will be keen to complete his signing and avoid missing their man who has been linked to the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester United and Barca in recent months.
Importantly, Pochettino, like Tuchel, is at ease in man-managing a dressing room crammed with a galaxy of stars.
Neymar has been at the centre of new controversy this week after Brazilian media reported that he is organising a huge New Year's Eve party despite the coronavirus pandemic -- claims his lawyers have denied.
Pochettino is the son of a farmer from Murphy, in the north of Argentina.
He is known as a stickler for detail, which coupled with his tactical acumen, devotion to an attractive style of play and his popularity amongst Parisian fans, makes him a potentially ideal fit as the new occupant of the PSG dugout.
He would have under his wing several compatriots such as Mauro Icardi, Angel Di Maria and Leandro Paredes.
His anticipated arrival before the winter transfer window will allow him to bring in new faces, potentially one former Spurs charge, Inter Milan's attacking midfielder Christian Eriksen.
And looking further ahead, given their Argentine ties, Pochettino may be the catalyst for six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi to start regarding PSG as potential new employers when he is free to move from the Camp Nou at the end of the season.
Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who had been at the club since July 2018, but did not name his successor.
Argentinian Mauricio Pochettino, the ex-Tottenham coach and a former PSG player, is widely reported to be the favourite to take over.
Tuchel, whose axing was widely reported but unconfirmed last week, managed PSG 127 times in all competitions, with 95 wins, 12 draws and 20 defeats.
His trophy haul featured two Ligue 1 titles (2019, 2020) as well as the French Cup and French League Cup in 2020.
The 47-year-old German also led the Parisian club to their first ever Champions League final last August, which they lost 1-0 to Bayern Munich.
Despite appearing to be adept at man-managing PSG's squad of superstar players such as Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, Tuchel reportedly upset the Qatari-backed club after complaining about an apparent lack of recognition at leading PSG to the Champions League final.
"I would like to thank Thomas Tuchel and his staff for all they have contributed to the club," said PSG chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi.
"Thomas has put a lot of energy and passion into the job, and we will of course remember the good moments we shared together. I wish him all the best for the future."
Less than three months on from the final defeat to Bayern Munich in Lisbon, Tuchel has become the first PSG coach to leave mid-season since Antoine Kombouare was replaced by Carlo Ancelotti in December 2011.
- Barca date looms -
Tuchel departs the Parc des Princes having secured a last 16 Champions League clash with Barcelona and PSG sitting third in Ligue 1 -- a point shy of leaders Lyon -- despite being plagued by injuries, suspensions and coronavirus infections.
Should Pochettino take over, his opening match in charge will be January 6's trip to Saint-Etienne on Ligue 1's resumption after the winter break.
Then, on February 16, the Argentinian could face his first massive test against his compatriot Lionel Messi's Barcelona, with the return leg on March 6.
Pochettino was let go after five and a half years at Tottenham in the aftermath of leading the north London side to their first ever appearance in a Champions League final against Liverpool in 2019.
Although he has yet to win any silverware the former PSG defender's stock is high in managerial circles.
The Parisians will be keen to complete his signing and avoid missing their man who has been linked to the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester United and Barca in recent months.
Importantly, Pochettino, like Tuchel, is at ease in man-managing a dressing room crammed with a galaxy of stars.
Neymar has been at the centre of new controversy this week after Brazilian media reported that he is organising a huge New Year's Eve party despite the coronavirus pandemic -- claims his lawyers have denied.
Pochettino is the son of a farmer from Murphy, in the north of Argentina.
He is known as a stickler for detail, which coupled with his tactical acumen, devotion to an attractive style of play and his popularity amongst Parisian fans, makes him a potentially ideal fit as the new occupant of the PSG dugout.
He would have under his wing several compatriots such as Mauro Icardi, Angel Di Maria and Leandro Paredes.
His anticipated arrival before the winter transfer window will allow him to bring in new faces, potentially one former Spurs charge, Inter Milan's attacking midfielder Christian Eriksen.
And looking further ahead, given their Argentine ties, Pochettino may be the catalyst for six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi to start regarding PSG as potential new employers when he is free to move from the Camp Nou at the end of the season.
"After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement.
Argentinian Mauricio Pochettino, the ex-Tottenham coach and a former PSG player, is widely reported to be the favourite to take over.
Tuchel, whose axing was widely reported but unconfirmed last week, managed PSG 127 times in all competitions, with 95 wins, 12 draws and 20 defeats.
His trophy haul featured two Ligue 1 titles (2019, 2020) as well as the French Cup and French League Cup in 2020.
The 47-year-old German also led the Parisian club to their first ever Champions League final last August, which they lost 1-0 to Bayern Munich.
Despite appearing to be adept at man-managing PSG's squad of superstar players such as Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, Tuchel reportedly upset the Qatari-backed club after complaining about an apparent lack of recognition at leading PSG to the Champions League final.
"I would like to thank Thomas Tuchel and his staff for all they have contributed to the club," said PSG chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi.
"Thomas has put a lot of energy and passion into the job, and we will of course remember the good moments we shared together. I wish him all the best for the future."
Less than three months on from the final defeat to Bayern Munich in Lisbon, Tuchel has become the first PSG coach to leave mid-season since Antoine Kombouare was replaced by Carlo Ancelotti in December 2011.
- Barca date looms -
Tuchel departs the Parc des Princes having secured a last 16 Champions League clash with Barcelona and PSG sitting third in Ligue 1 -- a point shy of leaders Lyon -- despite being plagued by injuries, suspensions and coronavirus infections.
Should Pochettino take over, his opening match in charge will be January 6's trip to Saint-Etienne on Ligue 1's resumption after the winter break.
Then, on February 16, the Argentinian could face his first massive test against his compatriot Lionel Messi's Barcelona, with the return leg on March 6.
Pochettino was let go after five and a half years at Tottenham in the aftermath of leading the north London side to their first ever appearance in a Champions League final against Liverpool in 2019.
Although he has yet to win any silverware the former PSG defender's stock is high in managerial circles.
The Parisians will be keen to complete his signing and avoid missing their man who has been linked to the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester United and Barca in recent months.
Importantly, Pochettino, like Tuchel, is at ease in man-managing a dressing room crammed with a galaxy of stars.
Neymar has been at the centre of new controversy this week after Brazilian media reported that he is organising a huge New Year's Eve party despite the coronavirus pandemic -- claims his lawyers have denied.
Pochettino is the son of a farmer from Murphy, in the north of Argentina.
He is known as a stickler for detail, which coupled with his tactical acumen, devotion to an attractive style of play and his popularity amongst Parisian fans, makes him a potentially ideal fit as the new occupant of the PSG dugout.
He would have under his wing several compatriots such as Mauro Icardi, Angel Di Maria and Leandro Paredes.
His anticipated arrival before the winter transfer window will allow him to bring in new faces, potentially one former Spurs charge, Inter Milan's attacking midfielder Christian Eriksen.
And looking further ahead, given their Argentine ties, Pochettino may be the catalyst for six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi to start regarding PSG as potential new employers when he is free to move from the Camp Nou at the end of the season.
Bayern Munich crush Lyon, to face PSG in Champions League final
It was Lyon who started the game better, but they failed to convert a host of chances in the first half. Memphis Depay shot wide after running clear, before Karl Toko Ekambi struck the woodwork from close range.
Moments later, Bayern took the lead through Serge Gnabry’s rising drive. The winger then doubled their advantage before the break and Robert Lewandowski added gloss on the victory with a bullet header, his 15th goal in the competition this season.
They now play Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s final.
It was Lyon who started the game better, but they failed to convert a host of chances in the first half. Memphis Depay shot wide after running clear, before Karl Toko Ekambi struck the woodwork from close range.
Moments later, Bayern took the lead through Serge Gnabry’s rising drive. The winger then doubled their advantage before the break and Robert Lewandowski added gloss on the victory with a bullet header, his 15th goal in the competition this season.
They now play Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s final.
Australia & New Zealand chosen to host 2023 women's World Cup
(AFP) - Australia and New Zealand will host the 2023 women's World Cup after the countries' joint bid was chosen by FIFA on Thursday.
The overwhelming favourites won ahead of their only rival Colombia, with Japan having withdrawn its own bid earlier in the week and Brazil, Argentina, South Africa and a joint Korean proposal already having fallen by the wayside.
The 2023 tournament is set to be the first 32-team women's World Cup, up from the 24 nations who competed at last year's finals in France, won by the United States.
It will be the ninth women's World Cup.
"WE DID IT! LETS GO AUSTRALIA & NZ! WORLD CUPS COMING HOME", said Chelsea's Sam Kerr, the leading star of Australian women's football, in a celebratory Instagram post.
The joint proposal by Australia and New Zealand will see games played in 13 venues across 12 cities in July and August 2023, with the opening match at Eden Park in Auckland and the final in Sydney.
Seven cities in Australia will host games, and five in New Zealand. There will be two stadiums in Sydney. Four groups will be based in each country during the first phase.
Thursday's vote came at a video-conference meeting of the 37 members of the FIFA Council as football, and global sport in general, struggles to get back on its feet in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Australia and New Zealand bid was given the highest score, of 4.1 out of five, in an evaluation by world football's governing body published earlier this month.
It was followed by Japan, on 3.9, but the Japanese bid was withdrawn on Monday, with the head of the country's football association, Kozo Tajima, noting that key support was moving towards Australia and New Zealand.
In addition, he admitted that Japan's focus was on hosting next year's Olympics in Tokyo.
FIFA's evaluation report gave Colombia a score of just 2.8 out of five as it raised doubts about the ability to provide investment required to carry out "necessary improvements" and also highlighted security worries in the South American country.
Australia and New Zealand both have considerable experience when it comes to hosting major international sporting events.
Australia hosted the men's Asian Cup in 2015, with New Zealand hosting the men's under-20 World Cup in the same year.
In addition, Australia has hosted the Summer Olympics twice, in Melbourne in 1956 and Sydney in 2000.
Both countries have recently hosted the men's Rugby World Cup having also jointly organised the first edition of that competition in 1987.
They also jointly staged the 1992 and 2015 Cricket World Cups.
Australia are seventh in the current FIFA women's world rankings, but the Matildas have never been beyond the quarter-finals at the World Cup and lost on penalties to Norway in the last 16 last year.
New Zealand's "Football Ferns" have never been beyond the group stage and in 2023 will be hoping to win a game at the finals for the first time.
AFP
(AFP) - Australia and New Zealand will host the 2023 women's World Cup after the countries' joint bid was chosen by FIFA on Thursday.
The overwhelming favourites won ahead of their only rival Colombia, with Japan having withdrawn its own bid earlier in the week and Brazil, Argentina, South Africa and a joint Korean proposal already having fallen by the wayside.
The 2023 tournament is set to be the first 32-team women's World Cup, up from the 24 nations who competed at last year's finals in France, won by the United States.
It will be the ninth women's World Cup.
"WE DID IT! LETS GO AUSTRALIA & NZ! WORLD CUPS COMING HOME", said Chelsea's Sam Kerr, the leading star of Australian women's football, in a celebratory Instagram post.
The joint proposal by Australia and New Zealand will see games played in 13 venues across 12 cities in July and August 2023, with the opening match at Eden Park in Auckland and the final in Sydney.
Seven cities in Australia will host games, and five in New Zealand. There will be two stadiums in Sydney. Four groups will be based in each country during the first phase.
Thursday's vote came at a video-conference meeting of the 37 members of the FIFA Council as football, and global sport in general, struggles to get back on its feet in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Australia and New Zealand bid was given the highest score, of 4.1 out of five, in an evaluation by world football's governing body published earlier this month.
It was followed by Japan, on 3.9, but the Japanese bid was withdrawn on Monday, with the head of the country's football association, Kozo Tajima, noting that key support was moving towards Australia and New Zealand.
In addition, he admitted that Japan's focus was on hosting next year's Olympics in Tokyo.
FIFA's evaluation report gave Colombia a score of just 2.8 out of five as it raised doubts about the ability to provide investment required to carry out "necessary improvements" and also highlighted security worries in the South American country.
Australia and New Zealand both have considerable experience when it comes to hosting major international sporting events.
Australia hosted the men's Asian Cup in 2015, with New Zealand hosting the men's under-20 World Cup in the same year.
In addition, Australia has hosted the Summer Olympics twice, in Melbourne in 1956 and Sydney in 2000.
Both countries have recently hosted the men's Rugby World Cup having also jointly organised the first edition of that competition in 1987.
They also jointly staged the 1992 and 2015 Cricket World Cups.
Australia are seventh in the current FIFA women's world rankings, but the Matildas have never been beyond the quarter-finals at the World Cup and lost on penalties to Norway in the last 16 last year.
New Zealand's "Football Ferns" have never been beyond the group stage and in 2023 will be hoping to win a game at the finals for the first time.
AFP
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