Archive soccer news from around the world
Euro 2004 warm-ups hit by rash of injuries (Mar 31, 2004)
The latest batch of Euro 2004 dress rehearsals will be staged with a host of players tipped to take starring roles in Portugal noticeable by their absence. . . . more . . .
Australia debut delights Cahill ahead of FA Cup semi (Mar 31, 2004)
Millwall midfielder Tim Cahill had a memorable warm-up for this weekend's FA Cup semi-final when he made his long-awaited Australia debut in the 1-0 win over South Africa here at Loftus Road. . . . more . . .
Gloves off as Lehmann eyes German jersey (Mar 31, 2004)
Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann will be determined to prove he should be first choice for the approaching 2004 European championships when Germany host neighbours Belgium in Wednesday's friendly match in Cologne. . . . more . . .
Saudi Arabia beat Sri Lanka 1-0 in World Cup qualifier (Mar 31, 2004)
A 53rd-minute strike by forward Ibrahim Al-Shahrani enabled Saudi Arabia to beat Sri Lanka 1-0 in a World Cup Asian Zone qualifying match. . . . more . . .
Ibrahimovic ruins Eriksson's homecoming (Mar 31, 2004)
One exquisitely executed finish from Zlatan Ibrahimovic was enough to dampen, if not quite ruin, England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson's homecoming. . . . more . . .
Everton striker Ferguson escapes racist charge (Mar 31, 2004)
Everton striker Duncan Ferguson has escaped a Football Association charge over alleged racial abuse towards Fulham's Luis Boa-Morte. . . . more . . .
Miccoli off the mark as Italy humble Portugal (Mar 31, 2004)
Fabrizio Miccoli's first international goal gave Italy a 2-1 win over Euro 2004 hosts Portugal in an entertaining friendly between two of the tournament favourites. . . . more . . .
Kennedy called up for Scotland (Mar 31, 2004)
Celtic defender John Kennedy's stirring performances against Barcelona and Rangers last week have been rewarded with his first cap for Scotland in the friendly against Romania. . . . more . . .
Ireland stun Czechs (Mar 31, 2004)
Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane hit an injury-time winner to bring a crashing end to the Czech Republic 20-match unbeaten run. . . . more . . .
Holland and France serve up a dud (Mar 31, 2004)
Holland ended France's 14-match winning streak but neither of the favourites for the Euro 2004 title managed to score a goal in a pedestrian friendly. . . . more . . .
Romania ease past Scotland (Mar 31, 2004)
Romania added to the pressure on under-fire Scotland boss Berti Vogts with a 2-1 friendly victory at Hampden Park. . . . more . . .
Ballack caps easy German win over naive Belgium (Mar 31, 2004)
Germany warmed up for the 2004 European championships with a 3-0 win over Belgium in the first ever international match at the RheinEnergie Stadium. . . . more . . .
Injuries forces Santini to juggle options (Mar 31, 2004)
France coach Jacques Santini has had to contend wth a string of high level defections for the reigning champions Euro 2004 warm-up against Holland. . . . more . . .
Greece stretch unbeaten run with Swiss victory (Mar 31, 2004)
Midfielder Vasilis Tsiartas missed a penalty but made amends when he went on to hit the winner to give Greece a 1-0 victory over Switzerland in a Euro 2004 warm-up match. . . . more . . .
Eriksson pleads to be judged on results (Mar 31, 2004)
Sven-Goran Eriksson has pleaded with England's fans to judge him on results -- not what they read in the newspapers. . . . more . . .
FIFA to reject joint 2010 World Cup bid by Libya and Tunisia (Mar 31, 2004)
A joint bid by Libya and Tunisia to host the World Cup in 2010 will be rejected by world football's governing body, FIFA president Sepp Blatter said. . . . more . . .
South Korea draw, Japan and Saudis stumble through World Cup clashes (Mar 31, 2004)
South Korea were held to a shock draw while fellow heavyweights Japan and Saudi Arabia were given the fright of their lives as Asia's underdogs bared their teeth in the latest round of qualifiers for the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Two late goals steer Lebanon to victory over Vietnam (Mar 31, 2004)
Lebanon scored two late goals to beat Vietnam 2-0 here in the second match of their 2006 World Cup Asian qualifying campaign. . . . more . . .
Zico kickstarts Thailand's World Cup dream (Mar 31, 2004)
Thailand's veteran star Kiatisuk 'Zico' Senamuang kick-started his country's 2006 World Cup campaign when he scored one goal and created the other two in a 3-0 away win over Yemen. . . . more . . .
Japan struggles through heat for 2-1 away victory against Singapore (Mar 31, 2004)
Asian champions Japan struggled through hot and humid conditions to secure a 2-1 away victory against Singapore in their World Cup qualifier here. . . . more . . .
Scolari settles on Portugal's Euro 2004 line-up (Mar 31, 2004)
Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said he already knew which players he will select for the Euro 2004 finals which Portugal is hosting from June. . . . more . . .
Northern Ireland clinch first win in 16 outings (Mar 31, 2004)
David Healy's goal in first-half injury time was good enough to give Northern Ireland their first win in 16 games as they defeated Estonia 1-0 in an international friendly. . . . more . . .
Maldives stun South Korea with battling draw in World Cup qualifiers (Mar 31, 2004)
The Maldives pulled off one of the most remarkable upsets in Asian football history here by holding mighty South Korea to a goalless draw in qualifiers for the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Hyypia happy to stay on at Liverpool (Mar 31, 2004)
Liverpool's Finnish international defender Sami Hyypia said he would like to prolong his five-year stay with the English Premiership club. . . . more . . .
Eriksson looks for a substitute in the spotlight (Mar 31, 2004)
Sven-Goran Eriksson could be forgiven if it is not just England's long-term interests he has in mind when he hands Shaun Wright-Phillips and Jermain Defoe the chance to launch their international careers. . . . more . . .
Roma future hangs in balance (Mar 30, 2004)
Trading in Italian side AS Roma's shares was suspended on the Milan stock exchange for two days. . . . more . . .
India beat Pakistan 1-0 in South Asian games football (Mar 30, 2004)
Indian footballers defeated hosts Pakistan 1-0 at the ninth South Asian Federation (SAF) games. . . . more . . .
Italy would welcome Maldini return says Nesta (Mar 30, 2004)
AC Milan defender Alessandro Nesta said the Italian national team would warmly welcome the return of club team-mate Paolo Maldini to international football. . . . more . . .
Judge me on results, Eriksson pleads (Mar 30, 2004)
Sven- Goran Eriksson pleaded to be judged on his results as England manager, not condemned out of hand for his controversial flirtation with Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Man United posts jump in interim profits as Glazer rules out bid (Mar 30, 2004)
American billionaire Malcolm Glazer said he did not intend to bid for Manchester United as the English Premiership soccer champions unveiled a 32-percent rise in half-year profits to 26.8 million pounds (40 million euros, 48.8 million dollars). . . . more . . .
Dortmund want to offload Amoroso (Mar 30, 2004)
Borussia Dortmund want to sever ties with Brazilian striker Marcio Amoroso after accusing him of showing a lack of respect for the 1997 European champions. . . . more . . .
Glazer not ready to make Man United takeover bid (Mar 30, 2004)
American billionaire Malcolm Glazer said he had no intention of making a takeover bid for Manchester United as the English Premiership soccer champions unveiled a 32-percent rise in half-year profits to 26.8 million pounds (40 million euros, 48.8 million dollars). . . . more . . .
Socceroos down South Africa with Bresciano strike (Mar 30, 2004)
Australia midfielder Marco Bresciano's first-half goal gave the Socceroos a 1-0 victory over South Africa in their international friendly at Loftus Road. . . . more . . .
Gerrard to captain England against Sweden (Mar 30, 2004)
Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard will captain England in Wednesday's friendly international against Sweden in Gothenburg after David Beckham withdrew because of injury. . . . more . . .
Hearts chief assaulted as Murrayfield row escalates (Mar 30, 2004)
Hearts chief executive Chris Robinson was attacked outside the Edinburgh club's Tynecastle ground. . . . more . . .
Portuguese border police in Euro 2004 strike threat (Mar 30, 2004)
Portuguese border police have threatened to go on strike during Euro 2004 over overtime pay demands. . . . more . . .
Zico worries over late arrival of European stars for Singapore clash (Mar 30, 2004)
Japan will go into Wednesday's World Cup qualifier against Singapore slightly under-prepared because of the late arrival of the team's European-based stars, national coach Zico warned. . . . more . . .
Vieira rates United a bigger threat than Chelsea (Mar 30, 2004)
Patrick Vieira says Manchester United and not Chelsea represent the biggest threat to Arsenal's title hopes. . . . more . . .
Dutch to test Van Nistelrooy-Makaay front line (Mar 30, 2004)
Holland coach Dick Advocaat said he would be testing a forward line of Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Roy Makaay in Wednesday's pre-Euro 2004 international friendly against France. . . . more . . .
Van Buyten keen to stay at Man City (Mar 30, 2004)
Belgium international defender Daniel van Buyten would be happy to make his move to Manchester City permanent. . . . more . . .
United pay off Barthez (Mar 30, 2004)
Manchester United have paid off France goalkeeper Fabien Barthez - on loan at Marseille - at a cost of five million pounds (7.5 million euros/9 million dollars). . . . more . . .
Litmanen leaving Ajax (Mar 30, 2004)
Ajax Amsterdam said they would not renew Finnish forward Jari Litmanen's contract which runs out at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Juventus keeper Buffon concedes defeat (Mar 30, 2004)
Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has conceded defeat to AC Milan in the race for the Italian league title. . . . more . . .
Lazio-Roma to be replayed (Mar 30, 2004)
The Rome derby abandoned earlier this month due to fears for crowd safety after a riot broke out outside the stadium, will be replayed, the Italian sports judiciary said. . . . more . . .
UEFA drop Keane appeal (Mar 29, 2004)
UEFA have withdrawn their appeal against their own disciplinary sanction against Manchester United captain Roy Keane leaving him free to play in Europe from the start of next season. . . . more . . .
James relieved by Eriksson commitment (Mar 29, 2004)
England goalkeeper David James said that both he and the team had been relived when Sven-Goran Eriksson finally committed to the national team. . . . more . . .
Arsenal set to rest Henry for United Cup tie (Mar 29, 2004)
Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal can beat Manchester United in Saturday's FA Cup semi-final at Villa Park without star striker Thierry Henry. . . . more . . .
IACA mulls Portugal flight boycott during Euro 2004 over security measures (Mar 29, 2004)
European airline body IACA said Monday it may ask its members not to fly to Portugal during the three-week European football finals in June because it disagrees with airline security measures planned for the event. . . . more . . .
Zambrotta extends Juventus contract (Mar 29, 2004)
Juventus wing-back Gianluca Zambrotta has signed an extension to his contract that will keep him with the Turin outfit until 2008, the Serie A club said. . . . more . . .
Voller sweats on German marksman Klose (Mar 29, 2004)
Germany coach Rudi Voller is sweating on the fitness of star striker Miroslav Klose ahead of the warm-up match with Belgium in Cologne. . . . more . . .
Dortmund losing patience with troublesome Amoroso (Mar 29, 2004)
Borussia Dortmund's eccentric Brazilian attacker Marcio Amoroso continues to test the thinning patience of the club, ignoring their latest ultimatum that he return from Brazil. . . . more . . .
Zidane joins Vieira and Pires on France sidelines (Mar 29, 2004)
Real Madrid play-maker Zinedine Zidane has pulled out of France's friendly international with Holland here because of a groin strain. . . . more . . .
Leeds boss Gray pins blame on defence (Mar 29, 2004)
Leeds United manager Eddie Gray has blamed his defence and cleared Mark Vikuka for the 4-1 defeat at Birmingham City which prevented United from escaping from the relegation zone. . . . more . . .
Liverpool's Houllier rues wasted chances (Mar 29, 2004)
Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier has admitted his side wasted a golden chance in Sunday's goalless draw at Leicester City. . . . more . . .
Tale of two managers tells its own story (Mar 29, 2004)
For once, the true story of an Arsenal enounter with Manchester United emerged in the post-match interview room. . . . more . . .
Police called to Rooney party (Mar 29, 2004)
An 18th birthday party thrown by England and Everton star Wayne Rooney for his girlfriend Colleen McLoughlin ended with the police being called in when a fight broke out. . . . more . . .
IATA mulls Portugal flight boycott during Euro 2004 over security measures (Mar 29, 2004)
World airline body IATA said it may ask its members, which include most of the world's largest airlines, not to fly to Portugal during the three-week European football finals this June because it disagrees with airline security measures planned for the event. . . . more . . .
Germany's Klose misses Belgium friendly (Mar 29, 2004)
German national coach Rudi Voller confirmed that Kaiserslautern striker Miroslav Klose will sit out Wednesday's friendly match against Belgium in Cologne. . . . more . . .
Lehmann wants to hang up gloves in England (Mar 29, 2004)
Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann wants to end his career in the Premiership if his body can endure the strains of the English top-flight. . . . more . . .
Beckham adds to Sven's injury woes (Mar 29, 2004)
David Beckham was ruled out of England's friendly against Sweden, compounding manager Sven-Goran Eriksson's injury problems. . . . more . . .
Former German international Brulls dies (Mar 29, 2004)
Former German international Albert Brulls, capped 25 times for his country between 1959 and 1966, died of cancer in Neuss at the age of 67. . . . more . . .
Zanetti and Castellini ruled out of Portugal friendly (Mar 29, 2004)
Inter Milan midfielder Cristiano Zanetti and Parma defender Marcello Castellini have been forced to pull out of Italy's 22-man squad for Wednesday's friendly away to Euro 2004 hosts Portugal because of injury. . . . more . . .
Beckham bruises Sevilla as Madrid stay top (Mar 28, 2004)
England skipper David Beckham shrugged off his injury fears to help inspire Real Madrid to a 5-1 victory over Sevilla. . . . more . . .
Mali topple Olympic champions Cameroon (Mar 28, 2004)
Mali eliminated defending champions Cameroon from the 2004 Olympic Games football competition with a 1-0 qualifying victory in Bamako. . . . more . . .
Celtic show their dominance over Rangers (Mar 28, 2004)
Celtic piled the misery on to their bitter Glasgow rivals Rangers as they won the Old Firm game 2-1 and extended their lead at the top of the Scottish Premier League to 19 points. . . . more . . .
Bolton hand Newcastle Champions League setback (Mar 28, 2004)
Newcastle's hopes of clinching the fourth and final Champions League place suffered a setback when they crashed to a 1-0 defeat at Bolton. . . . more . . .
Vicente and Valencia put the pressure on Madrid (Mar 28, 2004)
Valencia, helped by two goals from Spanish international midfielder Vicente Rodriguez, turned up the pressure on Real Madrid with a 3-0 win at Racing Santander. . . . more . . .
Arsenal set new record after United deadlock (Mar 28, 2004)
Arsenal's eclipse of Manchester United as the dominant force in English football was underlined here as Arsene Wenger's side extended their unbeaten start to the season to a record 30 matches. . . . more . . .
Vogts unhappy USA trip not going ahead (Mar 28, 2004)
Scotland manager Berti Vogts has expressed his disappointment after the Scottish Football Association failed to set up a summer tour of America. . . . more . . .
Eriksson signs up with England until 2008 (Mar 28, 2004)
England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson ended the uncertainty over his future by announcing that he had agreed to sign a new contract which will keep him in the job up until 2008. . . . more . . .
PSG come unstuck against Lens (Mar 28, 2004)
Paris Saint Germain's record of 17 league games without defeat ended with defeat to Lens, a result that left them six points off the top of the table. . . . more . . .
Saha spares United's blushes (Mar 28, 2004)
Arsenal's eclipse of Manchester United as the dominant force in English football was underlined here as Arsene Wenger's side extended their unbeaten start to the season to a record 30 matches. . . . more . . .
Supersub Shevchenko saves Milan's blushes (Mar 28, 2004)
Andrei Shevchenko's header in the seventh minute of stoppage time gave league leaders AC Milan a last-gasp 2-2 draw against Chievo as the European champions recovered from being two goals down at half-time to earn a precious point at the San Siro. . . . more . . .
Liverpool tighten grip on Champions League spot (Mar 28, 2004)
Liverpool moved one point ahead of Newcastle in the race for the fourth Champions League spot after a goalless draw with Leicester. . . . more . . .
Eriksson signs new England deal (Mar 28, 2004)
England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson ended the uncertainty over his future by announcing that he had signed a new contract which will keep him in the job up until 2008. . . . more . . .
Eriksson in secret meeting with Chelsea chief executive: report (Mar 27, 2004)
England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has had a secret meeting with Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon over a 40-million-pound (73-million-dollar) deal to coach the club, according to a UK daily. . . . more . . .
Serbia-Montenegro football chief dies after shooting (Mar 27, 2004)
The head of the Serbia-Montenegro Football Federation, Branko Bulatovic, has died after being shot in the neck by an unknown gunman, Beta news agency reported. . . . more . . .
Viduka miss deepens the gloom for Leeds (Mar 27, 2004)
Mark Viduka was guilty of one of the worst misses of his career as Leeds squandered a gilt-edged opportunity to escape from the relegation zone for the first time in five months. . . . more . . .
Beckham may miss Sweden match: reports (Mar 27, 2004)
England captain David Beckham could be out of next week's friendly international with Sweden after taking a blow to the leg during Real Madrid's Champions League match against Monaco in midweek. . . . more . . .
United won't field a weakened team says Wenger (Mar 27, 2004)
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said he does not believe Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson will field a weakened team in Sunday's crunch Premiership clash at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Ranieri dismisses reports of Spurs link (Mar 27, 2004)
Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri issued a statement denying he had begun talking to any other clubs. . . . more . . .
Hearts set to bring European football to home of Scottish rugby (Mar 27, 2004)
Murrayfield, the home of Scottish rugby, looks set to be playing host to European football next season after Hearts strengthened their grip on third place in the SPL. . . . more . . .
Hasselbaink's hat-trick of happy returns sees Chelsea home (Mar 27, 2004)
Birthday boy Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink celebrated in style with a 13-minute hat-trick that powered Chelsea to a 5-2 victory over Wolves and closed the gap on Premiership leaders Arsenal to six points. . . . more . . .
Deportivo leap over Barcelona (Mar 27, 2004)
Deportivo La Coruna put their Champions League exit behind them as they beat Real Sociedad 2-1 to move above Barcelona into third place in the Spanish first division. . . . more . . .
Under-fire Sven hands Defoe Euro 2004 chance (Mar 27, 2004)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson handed Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe a golden opportunity to stake a claim for a Euro 2004 place when he was named in the 26-man squad for Wednesday's friendly against Sweden in Gothenburg. . . . more . . .
Five-goal Bayern keep hopes alive (Mar 27, 2004)
Bayern Munich thrashed Borussia Monchengladbach 5-2 to keep alive their slim hopes of retaining their Bundesliga title. . . . more . . .
Elber helps Lyon retain slim lead over Monaco (Mar 27, 2004)
Defending champions Lyon held on to their wafer-thin lead at the top of the French league after Brazilian Giovane Elber ensured they came away from a visit to Nice with maximum points. . . . more . . .
Rangers hit by triple whammy ahead of Old Firm clash (Mar 26, 2004)
Rangers have been handed a hat-trick of setbacks ahead of Sunday's Old Firm clash with Celtic at Ibrox. . . . more . . .
High-flyers Lyon in late surge (Mar 26, 2004)
Lyon will be hoping their astonishing late-season run, for the third year in succession, maintains its momentum at Nice on Saturday as the reigning champions play their first match of the season as leaders. . . . more . . .
Merciless Milan determined to keep foot on the pedal (Mar 26, 2004)
League leaders AC Milan will not be taking the challenge of Chievo lightly on Sunday as the European champions look to take another step closer to their first Serie A title since 1999. . . . more . . .
Houllier facing nine-match survival fight after UEFA Cup exit (Mar 26, 2004)
Gerard Houllier insisted that Liverpool could win their nine-match battle to save their season and his job, despite seeing Michael Owen succumb to yet another injury as the Reds crashed out of the UEFA Cup. . . . more . . .
Belgium squad for Euro 2004 warm-up against Germany (Mar 26, 2004)
Jonathan Blondel and Gregory Dufer have been called up by Belgium coach Aime Anthuenis for a Euro 2004 warm-up friendly international against Germany in Cologne on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Serbia-Montenegro football chief shot (Mar 26, 2004)
Serbia-Montenegro Football Federation secretary general Branko Bulatovic was shot and seriously injured Friday in an attack at a federation office in central Belgrade. . . . more . . .
Petit confirms Ranieri going (Mar 26, 2004)
Chelsea midfielder Emmanuel Petit has confirmed manager Claudio Ranieri will be leaving in June. . . . more . . .
Celtic own hero Marshall rewarded with four-year deal (Mar 26, 2004)
David Marshall, the 19-year-old goalkeeper who performed heroics for Celtic in Barcelona, has been rewarded with a new four-year contract at the Glasgow giants. . . . more . . .
Barca out but not down after UEFA Cup exit (Mar 26, 2004)
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard insisted the confidence of his club would not be damaged seriously by going out of the UEFA Cup to Celtic. . . . more . . .
Turkish striker Ilhan to undergo minor knee surgery (Mar 26, 2004)
Turkish international striker Ilhan Mansiz, who joined J-League club Vissel Kobe last month, will undergo minor knee surgery next week in the Italian city of Bologna, a team official revealed. . . . more . . .
Belgium's Van Buyten out for rest of season (Mar 26, 2004)
Manchester City defender Daniel Van Buyten has been ruled out for the rest of the season after tearing a muscle in his groin in training. . . . more . . .
Dutch link van Nistelrooy, Makaay and Robben (Mar 26, 2004)
Holland coach Dick Advocaat named a near full-strength squad for next Wednesday's friendly international against France. . . . more . . .
Hunted Bremen look to fend off predators Stuttgart (Mar 26, 2004)
The bookmakers have already started paying out on Werder Bremen becoming the new German champions for 2004 but holders Bayern Munich and third-placed VfB Stuttgart are not waving the white flag just yet. . . . more . . .
Scholes aims to spike Gunners (Mar 26, 2004)
Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has warned that Arsenal's Treble hopes could be blown apart if the Reds end Arsenal's record-equalling run on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Madrid now need to show they are the Real deal (Mar 26, 2004)
Real Madrid got a respite from their critics with a 4-2 win over Monaco in the Champions League on Wednesday but they still need a convincing performance against Sevilla on Sunday to quieten them completely. . . . more . . .
Postiga given Portugal recall for friendly with Italy (Mar 26, 2004)
Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari recalled Tottenham striker Helder Postiga for a friendly against Italy on March 31 at the new Braga Municipal Stadium in northern Portugal. . . . more . . .
Pride on the line as United seek to deny Gunners record (Mar 26, 2004)
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson did not look a happy man as he sat watching Chelsea slug it out with Arsenal on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Portugal seeks NATO help for Euro 2004 (Mar 25, 2004)
Portugal will ask NATO to help beef up security during the European football finals this summer, Prime Minister Jose Manuel Durao Barroso revealed. . . . more . . .
Marseille won't be singing: Houllier (Mar 25, 2004)
Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier has motivated his players for their UEFA Cup fourth round match by reminding them of Marseille's celebrations after the 1-1 draw in the first leg. . . . more . . .
Teenage keeper the hero as Celtic survive Barca onslaught (Mar 25, 2004)
Celtic survived a 90-minute onslaught by Barcelona to draw 0-0 in their fourth round second leg match tie here to progress to the quarter-finals with a 1-0 aggregate victory. . . . more . . .
Nigeria's Martins the hero as Inter claim quarter-final place (Mar 25, 2004)
Inter Milan edged a seven-goal thriller against Benfica at the San Siro to squeeze into the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup. . . . more . . .
Portugal seek NATO help for Euro 2004 (Mar 25, 2004)
Portugal will ask NATO to help beef up security during the European football finals this summer, Prime Minister Jose Manuel Durao Barroso revealed. . . . more . . .
Marseille make Liverpool pay for first half folly (Mar 25, 2004)
Former European champions Marseille qualified for the UEFA Cup quarter-finals with a 2-1 victory over ten-man Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Ranieri warns Gunners: Chelsea will take some shooting (Mar 25, 2004)
Claudio Ranieri has warned Arsenal they will need all of their killer instinct to end Chelsea's Champions League dream in a fortnight's time. . . . more . . .
Morientes and Salva recalled for Spain (Mar 25, 2004)
Centre forwards Fernando Morientes of Monaco and Salva Ballesta of Malaga were called up by Spain for their Euro 2004 warm-up match against Denmark at Gijon on March 31. . . . more . . .
Eriksson urges fans to behave against Sweden (Mar 25, 2004)
Sven-Goran Eriksson has written to all 3,000 England ticket-holders for the friendly with his native Sweden to stress the importance of good behaviour. . . . more . . .
Anelka snubbed but Santini insists door is still open (Mar 25, 2004)
France coach Jacques Santini ignored Nicolas Anelka's plea to be forgiven when he named his squad for a friendly international against Holland next week. . . . more . . .
Younger Vieri gets call-up for Australia-South Africa friendly (Mar 25, 2004)
Australia named Massimiliano Vieri, the younger brother of Italian superstar Christian Vieri, in its squad to play a friendly match against South Africa in London next week. . . . more . . .
Barca's Puyol and Ronaldinho fit to face Celtic (Mar 25, 2004)
Carles Puyol and Brazil World Cup star Ronaldinho have been passed fit to face Celtic in Barcelona's UEFA Cup fourth round second leg match. . . . more . . .
Villa turn down takeover bid (Mar 25, 2004)
English Premiership side Aston Villa have rejected a reported 30 million pound bid from former Manchester City defender Ray Ranson. . . . more . . .
Berlusconi puts football's bail-out plan on ice (Mar 25, 2004)
Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi said a proposal to help Italy's debt-ridden clubs by giving them tax breaks had been put on ice because it had split the country's coalition government. . . . more . . .
Figo the phenomenon as Real roll on (Mar 25, 2004)
Ronaldo's return grabbed most of the headlines but the man who took the plaudits for Real Madrid's 4-2 win over Monaco was Luis Figo. . . . more . . .
Hertha's Hoeness ridicules Daum link (Mar 25, 2004)
Hertha Berlin general manager Dieter Hoeness has reacted angrily to suggestions that Christoph Daum is being lined up to coach the team next season. . . . more . . .
France snub for Anelka (Mar 25, 2004)
France coach Jacques Santini ignored Nicolas Anelka's plea to be forgiven when he named his squad for a friendly international against Holland next week. . . . more . . .
English offer on table for Bremen's Micoud (Mar 25, 2004)
Werder Bremen's French playmaker Johan Micoud wants to leave the Bundesliga leaders, with a top English Premiership side registering their interest. . . . more . . .
Voller puts Lehmann and Hildebrand under the microscope (Mar 25, 2004)
Germany coach Rudi Voller has handed a first call-up to VfB Stuttgart goalkeeper Timo Hildebrand for the warm-up match with Belgium in Cologne next wednesday as he looks at different options between the posts. . . . more . . .
Desailly hails Gunners class (Mar 25, 2004)
Marcel Desailly rates Arsenal, along with his old club AC Milan, as joint favourites to lift this season's Champions League crown. . . . more . . .
Rooney not charged over spitting claim (Mar 25, 2004)
England star Wayne Rooney will not face charges over claims he spat in a young woman's face during a night out in Manchester last month, prosecutors said. . . . more . . .
Builder embroiled in legal battle with Owen found dead (Mar 25, 2004)
A builder caught up in a legal battle with Liverpool and England striker Michael Owen about allegations of over-charging has been found dead after apparently killing himself. . . . more . . .
Tardelli signed as Egypt coach (Mar 25, 2004)
Egypt have appointed former Juventus and Inter Milan player Marco Tardelli as coach ahead of their bid to qualify for the 2006 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Maldini confirms international retirement (Mar 25, 2004)
AC Milan captain Paolo Maldini confirmed his retirement from international football - following an announcement he made the day after the final of the 2002 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Dutch star Van Bommel invites Schalke bid (Mar 25, 2004)
Ambitious Schalke 04 are trying to make Dutch international midfielder Marc van Bommel their latest recruit and the PSV Eindhoven star admits a move to the Arena Auf Schalke is appealing. . . . more . . .
Never write off Real: Beckham (Mar 25, 2004)
David Beckham hit back at Real Madrid's critics after the Spanish side beat Monaco 4-2 in their Champions League quarter-final first leg clash and insisted they have put their bad patch behind them. . . . more . . .
Vermant extends Schalke stay until 2006 (Mar 25, 2004)
Belgian international Sven Vermant has extended his contract with Schalke 04 by a further two years until June 2006. . . . more . . .
Anderson ends Roma fightback to send Villarreal through (Mar 25, 2004)
Roma crashed out of the UEFA Cup despite beating Villarreal 2-1 in the second leg of their fourth round match here at the Olympic stadium. . . . more . . .
Mallorca lose captain on eve of Newcastle visit (Mar 25, 2004)
Real Mallorca have lost their captain Javier Olaizola ahead of their UEFA Cup fourth round second leg match against Newcastle United. . . . more . . .
Bates contemplating Wednesday move (Mar 25, 2004)
Former Chelsea chairman Ken Bates is thinking about investing upwards of 10 million pounds (18 million dollars) in ailing Second Division side Sheffield Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Celtic survive Barca onslaught to reach quarter-finals (Mar 25, 2004)
Celtic survived a 90-minute onslaught by Barcelona to draw 0-0 in their fourth round second leg match tie here to progress to the quarter-finals with a 1-0 aggregate victory. . . . more . . .
Robson signs new Newcastle contract (Mar 25, 2004)
Bobby Robson has signed a new contract with Newcastle United that will see him stay as manager until the end of the 2004/05 season, the English Premiership side revealed. . . . more . . .
Bologna dent Lazio's hopes of Champions League place (Mar 25, 2004)
Lazio's hopes of clinching a place in the Champions League next season were dealt a blow when they lost 2-1 at Bologna. . . . more . . .
Ferguson charged by FA over Freund incident (Mar 24, 2004)
Everton's Duncan Ferguson is facing Football Association disciplinary charges after clashing with Leicester's Steffen Freund last weekend. . . . more . . .
Statistics on Arsenal's side in Chelsea Euro clash (Mar 24, 2004)
It is the match Chelsea cannot win and Arsenal cannot lose - at least that's what the statistics say ahead of the London rivals' Champions League quarter-final first leg match at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Real will bounce back says Zidane (Mar 24, 2004)
Real Madrid go into their Champions League quarter-final with Monaco on the back of two defeats which have rocked the reigning Spanish champions. . . . more . . .
It is not finished yet: Ranieri (Mar 24, 2004)
Claudio Ranieri said Chelsea would travel to Arsenal for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final in high spirits, despite being held to a 1-1 draw at home. . . . more . . .
Chelsea face massive Ranieri pay-off (Mar 24, 2004)
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich could be forced to pay Claudio Ranieri 8 million pounds (14.7 million dollars) compensation - the biggest ever pay-off in British football - if he sacks the Italian manager in July as expected. . . . more . . .
Celebratory shooting breaks out as Iraq beats Kuwait at football (Mar 24, 2004)
Celebratory shots rang out in Baghdad after the Iraqi national football team beat Kuwait 2-1 in a qualifying match for the 2004 Athens Olympic Games. . . . more . . .
South Korea close in on Olympics (Mar 24, 2004)
South Korea edged closer to the Olympic Games football tournament on Wednesday with a 1-0 win over Malaysia to give them a six point lead at the top of Asian Group A. . . . more . . .
Bail-out plan for Italian clubs opposed by Northern League (Mar 24, 2004)
Italy's right-wing Northern League opposed a plan to allow cash-strapped Italian football clubs the opportunity to spread payment of back taxes over five years. . . . more . . .
Bellamy in airport incident (Mar 24, 2004)
Newcastle United striker Craig Bellamy and club coach John Carver had to be pulled apart in an incident at Newcastle airport, according to a report. . . . more . . .
Racing Santander claim player was match-fixing target (Mar 24, 2004)
Spanish first division side Racing Santander lodged an official complaint with the league authorities that one of their players was asked to fix last weekend's match against Celta Vigo. . . . more . . .
Madrid move a step closer to tenth title (Mar 24, 2004)
Real Madrid turned on the style in the second half to earn a deserved 4-2 win over Monaco in their Champions League quarter-final first leg. . . . more . . .
Pires gives Gunners the edge (Mar 24, 2004)
Robert Pires denied Chelsea a first win over Arsenal in 17 attempts as the Gunners emerged from their trip across London with a 1-1 draw and a crucial edge to take into the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final. . . . more . . .
Milan masterclass deflates Deportivo (Mar 23, 2004)
AC Milan showed their determination to keep hold of the Champions League trophy with an emphatic 4-1 win over Deportivo La Coruna in a gripping quarter-final first leg tie. . . . more . . .
Porto take a double bite out of French champions Lyon (Mar 23, 2004)
FC Porto lived up to their billing as potential Champions League winners with a convincing 2-0 win over French champions Lyon in the first leg of their quarter final. . . . more . . .
Monaco's Morientes worrying return to Real (Mar 23, 2004)
Monaco's Fernando Morientes hardly got a hero's welcome on his return to the Spanish capital. . . . more . . .
Inanmoto faces return to Japan (Mar 23, 2004)
Japanese international midfielder Junichi Inamoto looks likely to return home at the end of the English Premiership season because Fulham are unwilling to pay the fee wanted by his Japanese club. . . . more . . .
We will survive, says Leeds boss Gray (Mar 23, 2004)
Defiant Leeds boss Eddie Gray believes his team's battling 2-1 win over Manchester City will be the springboard for a successful fight to stay in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Celtic hit by Douglas ban blow (Mar 23, 2004)
Celtic's planning for Thursday's UEFA Cup fourth round clash against Barcelona suffered a setback when goalkeeper Rob Douglas lost his appeal against his sending-off in the first leg in Glasgow 11 days ago. . . . more . . .
Ranieri tells Chelsea players goodbye (Mar 23, 2004)
Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri has told his players he will be leaving the club at the end of the season, newspapers reported. . . . more . . .
Lyon can reach the last four says Juninho (Mar 23, 2004)
Lyon's Brazilian midfielder Juninho believes the French side can handle FC Porto here and go on to qualify for the semi-finals of the Champions League for the first time. . . . more . . .
Confident Milan ready for Spanish inquisition (Mar 23, 2004)
AC Milan are in buoyant mood ahead of their Champions League quarter-final first leg here against Deportivo La Coruna after taking another step closer to the Italian league title. . . . more . . .
Henry looks no further than Stamford Bridge (Mar 23, 2004)
Arsenal might be touted as potential European champions but Thierry Henry is looking no further ahead than Stamford Bridge when the Premiership leaders clash with Chelsea in Wednesday's quarter-finals. . . . more . . .
Berlusconi moves to bail out Italian clubs (Mar 23, 2004)
Silvio Berlusconi's government is to give cash-strapped Italian soccer clubs the opportunity to spread payment of back taxes, estimated at over 500 million euros, over five years. . . . more . . .
O'Neill welcomes Miller back for Barcelona cruncher (Mar 23, 2004)
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill could welcome striker Liam Miller back to his line up for the crucial UEFA Cup fourth round second leg tie against Barcelona at the Nou Camp on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Bayern's Euro flops face pay cuts (Mar 23, 2004)
Bayern Munich's highly-paid stars will face salary cuts after the German giants' failure to qualify for the knockout stages of this season's Champions League. . . . more . . .
Edu looks to long-term future at Arsenal (Mar 23, 2004)
Arsenal's Brazilian midfielder Edu wants to sign a new contract with the English Premiership club after proving manager Arsene Wenger was right to persevere with him. . . . more . . .
Bad boy Rooney faces two-match ban (Mar 23, 2004)
Wayne Rooney will be forced to sit out two crucial matches of Everton's relegation dogfight after picking up his tenth yellow card of the season in the 1-1 draw against Leicester on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Scotland drop Leicester court suspect Dickov (Mar 23, 2004)
Scotland coach Berti Vogts has left Leicester City striker Paul Dickov out of the Scotland squad to face Romania in a friendly international. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid's Raul ready to start against Monaco (Mar 23, 2004)
Real Madrid's talismanic striker Raul Gonzalez is ready to start their Champions League quarter-final first leg with Monaco on Wednesday, after passing a fitness test. . . . more . . .
Byfield boosts Sunderland promotion bid (Mar 23, 2004)
Darren Byfield hit his third goal in the last three games to fire Sunderland to a 2-1 Division One win over Gillingham and boost his side's promotion chances. . . . more . . .
Four-goal Rangers take small chunk out of Celtic lead (Mar 23, 2004)
Glasgow Rangers kept up their forlorn hopes of catching Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premier League with a 4-1 demolition of a hapless Dunfermline. . . . more . . .
Liverpool reject Morgan bid (Mar 23, 2004)
English Premiership giants Liverpool have turned down a 50-million-pound cash injection from property developer Steve Morgan, according to the magnate. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo set for Monaco comeback (Mar 22, 2004)
Brazil World Cup star Ronaldo could return to Real Madrid's line-up for the Champions League quarter-final first leg clash against Monaco. . . . more . . .
Rome's day of shame as false rumour sparks riot (Mar 22, 2004)
More than 150 police officers were injured during violent clashes with fans before, during and after the explosive Serie A match between Lazio and Roma. . . . more . . .
Leeds celebrate financial salvation with victory (Mar 22, 2004)
Leeds United celebrated their financial rescue by moving off the foot of the Premiership table with a 2-1 win over Manchester City. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand drops appeal (Mar 22, 2004)
Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand has dropped plans to continue his fight against an eight month ban for missing a drugs test. . . . more . . .
Celtic hit by Douglas ban blow (Mar 22, 2004)
Celtic's planning for Thursday's UEFA Cup fourth round clash against Barcelona suffered a setback when goalkeeper Rob Douglas lost his appeal against his sending-off in the first leg in Glasgow 11 days ago. . . . more . . .
New Leeds board end players' wage deferrals (Mar 22, 2004)
New Leeds chairman Gerald Krasner said that players wage deferrals have been ended and that the club would repay all monies owed to players from February. . . . more . . .
Leeds begin relegation countdown at home to City (Mar 22, 2004)
Leeds skipper Dominic Matteo goes into the clash with Manchester City knowing there will be little room for error as the crisis-hit club begin their countdown to Premiership survival. . . . more . . .
Arsenal dismiss talk of Wenger Chelsea move (Mar 22, 2004)
Arsenal rubbished suggestions that manager Arsene Wenger was about to move to London rivals Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Inter striker Martins joins Nigeria Olympic team in Tunis (Mar 22, 2004)
Inter Milan have informed the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) that striker Obafemi Martins will join up with the country's Olympic team in Tunis on Thursday ahead of this weekend's crucial clash. . . . more . . .
Ranieri tells Chelsea to end talk over his future (Mar 22, 2004)
Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri has called on the club to end the speculation over his Stamford Bridge future. . . . more . . .
Romanian legend Hagi named new Galatasaray coach (Mar 22, 2004)
Romanian football legend Gheorghe Hagi has been named the new coach of his former club, Turkish giants Galatasaray, in place of Fatih Terim, it was confirmed. . . . more . . .
Bad boy Rooney faces two-match ban (Mar 22, 2004)
Wayne Rooney will be forced to sit out two crucial matches of Everton's relegation dogfight after picking up his tenth yellow card of the season in the 1-1 draw against Leicester on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Gunes sacked as Turkish coach (Mar 22, 2004)
Senol Gunes has been sacked as Turkey coach less than two years after leading the country to the semi-finals of the World Cup, it was reported. . . . more . . .
Taylor completes Birmingham move (Mar 22, 2004)
Birmingham signed Maik Taylor on a permanent basis after the 32-year-old goalkeeper's successful spell on loan from English Premiership rivals Fulham. . . . more . . .
If you gotta go, then go to England, say Borussia Dortmund (Mar 22, 2004)
Former European champions Borussia Dortmund insisted that they would prefer to sell their players to English sides where they would be guaranteed huge transfer fees. . . . more . . .
Romania's Hagi new Galatasaray coach (Mar 22, 2004)
Romania's Gheorghe Hagi has been named the new coach of Turkish club Galatasaray in place of Fatih Terim, media said. . . . more . . .
Newcastle boss Robson ready to soldier on (Mar 22, 2004)
Sir Bobby Robson may decide to stay on as Newcastle manager after his contract runs out at the end of the 2004-05 campaign. . . . more . . .
Violence forces abandonment of Rome derby (Mar 22, 2004)
The highly-charged derby between Roma and Lazio was sensationally called off at half-time after rumours spread around the Olympic Stadium that a young boy had been killed outside the ground. . . . more . . .
Arsenal set for Treble challenge (Mar 22, 2004)
Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal have the strength to sustain their English and European Treble ambitions over the next three daunting weeks. . . . more . . .
Okocha puts off Bolton contract talks (Mar 22, 2004)
Bolton captain Jay-Jay Okocha has put contract talks on hold until the end of the season to enable him to focus on his game and help end the club's run of seven games without a win. . . . more . . .
Last chance saloon for Chelsea's Ranieri as Stuttgart eye revenge (Mar 21, 2004)
The Champions League represents Chelsea's last realistic chance of silverware this season, making the tie with German runners-up VfB Stuttgart at the Gottlieb-Daimler Stadium a vital game for Italian coach Claudio Ranieri. . . . more . . .
Solano injury deals blow to Villa (Mar 21, 2004)
Aston Villa have lost influential midfielder Nolberto Solano for at least a month, dealing a blow to their hopes of qualifying for the UEFA Cup next season. . . . more . . .
Cisse hoping Houllier hangs on (Mar 21, 2004)
France striker Djibril Cisse said he hopes Gerard Houllier is still the Liverpool manager when he completes his expected move to Anfield from Auxerre in the summer. . . . more . . .
Birthday boy Ronaldinho fires UEFA Cup warning to Celtic (Mar 21, 2004)
Brazilian star Ronaldinho celebrated his 24th birthday in style by firing the only goal in his team's 1-0 Spanish league win over Real Sociedad as the Nou Camp giants clinched their ninth successive victory. . . . more . . .
Gray given vote of confidence by new Leeds supremo (Mar 21, 2004)
Leeds' caretaker-boss Eddie Gray has been given a vote of confidence by new club chairman Gerald Krasner as battles to save the Premiership side from relegation. . . . more . . .
Buzzing Bremen on the brink of Bundesliga glory (Mar 21, 2004)
The Bundesliga crown looks destined for Werder Bremen after the league leaders opened up an 11-point cushion at the Bundesliga summit with a 2-0 win over VfL Wolfsburg. . . . more . . .
Larsson on target twice for runaway leaders (Mar 21, 2004)
Henrik Larsson and Didier Agather each scored twice as Celtic regained their 19-point lead at the top in Scotland with a 4-0 defeat of a young Hibernian side. . . . more . . .
Rumours of boy's death stop Rome derby (Mar 21, 2004)
The highly-charged Rome derby between Roma and Lazio was called off at half-time after rumours spread around the Olympic Stadium that a young boy had been killed outside the ground. . . . more . . .
Millwall boost promotion bid (Mar 21, 2004)
Millwall, who booked their place in the semi-finals of the FA Cup in midweek, edged closer to the English First Division play-off places on Sunday with a 4-1 win over fellow promotion hopefuls West Ham. . . . more . . .
Frei stars as Marseille lose out in seven-goal thriller (Mar 21, 2004)
Marseille limbered up for next week's UEFA Cup tie against Liverpool coming off second best in a seven-goal thriller against Rennes. . . . more . . .
Ranieri has options if sacked says agent (Mar 21, 2004)
Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri could remain in England even if, as expected, he is sacked by the Premiership club this summer. . . . more . . .
Mista hat-trick puts pressure back on Real (Mar 21, 2004)
Mista Ferrer hit a stunning hat-trick as Valencia crushed Real Mallorca 5-1 to move within a point of Real Madrid at the top of the Spanish first division. . . . more . . .
Giggs provides Fergie with tonic (Mar 21, 2004)
Ryan Giggs has given Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and the club's supporters the perfect tonic ahead of two crucial showdowns with Arsenal over the next two weeks. . . . more . . .
Inter end slide to keep alive Champions League hopes (Mar 21, 2004)
Inter Milan ended a six-match winless run on Sunday to keep alive their hopes of clinching fourth spot in Serie A and a place in next season's Champions League. . . . more . . .
Rome derby halted after fan violence (Mar 21, 2004)
The highly-charged derby between Roma and Lazio was called off at half-time on Sunday after rumours spread around the Olympic Stadium that a young boy had been killed outside the ground. . . . more . . .
Portsmouth snatch valuable win in south coast derby (Mar 21, 2004)
Portsmouth's fight to stave off relegation received a much-needed shot in the arm when a rare goal from Aiyegbeni Yakubu earned them a narrow win over south coast rivals Southampton. . . . more . . .
Bolton fail to blow Gunners off title course (Mar 20, 2004)
The combination of gale force conditions and a spirited performance from Bolton was not enough to blow Arsenal's title drive off course or deny them a place in the record books. . . . more . . .
Duff keeps Chelsea's title hopes alive (Mar 20, 2004)
Damien Duff struck the winning goal to give Chelsea a 2-1 win over London neighbours Fulham as Claudio Ranieri's team kept alive their hopes of plugging the nine-point gap between them and Premiership leaders Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Bayern slip up again to leave Bremen in control (Mar 20, 2004)
The Bundesliga crown looks destined for Werder Bremen after defending champions Bayern Munich stumbled to a 1-1 draw with Hertha Berlin. . . . more . . .
Juve's slim title hopes all but blown away (Mar 20, 2004)
Juventus' slim hopes of retaining the Serie A title were practically extinguished after they were held to a disappointing goalless draw away to Udinese. . . . more . . .
Gers give fans four-goal tonic (Mar 20, 2004)
Rangers gave their frustrated fans a four-goal tonic as Dundee were swept aside at Ibrox. . . . more . . .
1990 World Cup winner Reuter to quit (Mar 20, 2004)
Veteran defender Stefan Reuter, the only member of Germany's 1990 World Cup winning team still playing, will quit at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Four-goal Bilbao stun mighty Real (Mar 20, 2004)
Real Madrid's build-up for their Champions League quarter-final clash against Monaco suffered another setback when they crashed to a 4-2 defeat at Athletic Bilbao. . . . more . . .
Great Dane Tomasson pushes Milan towards title (Mar 20, 2004)
AC Milan remain on course for their first Italian league title since 1999 as the European champions opened up a 10 point lead over second-placed Roma with a 3-1 win over Parma. . . . more . . .
Lyon take the lead as Monaco wobble (Mar 20, 2004)
Champions Lyon went to the top of the French league for the first time this season after Monaco's week went from bad to worse at Sochaux. . . . more . . .
Ailton furious after FIFA end World Cup dream (Mar 20, 2004)
Werder Bremen striker Ailton has hit out at the "people inside Germany" who he claims influenced FIFA to implement legislation to prevent him from playing for oil-rich Qatar at the 2006 World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
United back to winning ways (Mar 20, 2004)
Manchester United got back to winning ways with a 3-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur at a gusty Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Elber rues Lyon switch as Bundesliga nostalgia sets in (Mar 20, 2004)
Brazilian striker Giovane Elber has revealed that he made an error in moving to French big-guns Lyon and pines for a return to the Bundesliga. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand slams English FA over drugs test ban (Mar 20, 2004)
Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand has launched a ferocious attack on the English Football Association (FA) for its role in banning him for eight months over a missed drugs test. . . . more . . .
Bolton count on Okocha to cast his spell on Gunners (Mar 19, 2004)
Jay-Jay Okocha's luck must turn soon but Arsenal fans will be praying it does not happen when Bolton visit Highbury on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Blackburn boss Souness hit by striker claims (Mar 19, 2004)
Blackburn manager Graeme Souness has been accused of victimising his England international striker Andy Cole just a day after it was revealed he had been involved in a training ground bust-up with his other senior striker Dwight Yorke. . . . more . . .
Bilbao will pay for Madrid's Cup defeat: Queiroz (Mar 19, 2004)
Real Madrid coach Carlos Queiroz has warned Athletic Bilbao that they will pay the price on Saturday for his side's surprise defeat in the Spanish Cup final this week. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand "devastated" after losing appeal against doping ban (Mar 19, 2004)
Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand said he was "absolutely devastated" at losing his appeal against an eight-month ban for missing a drugs test. . . . more . . .
Butt stands up for shaky United defence (Mar 19, 2004)
Nicky Butt says Manchester United's defence should not shoulder the entire weight of the current crisis at Old Trafford and the whole side is to blame for allowing Arsenal to race ahead in the Premiership campaign. . . . more . . .
Leeds taken over by consortium as PLC goes into administration (Mar 19, 2004)
English Premiership club Leeds United was taken over by a consortium headed by local businessman Gerald Krasner. . . . more . . .
Real brings Ronaldo transfer dispute to final arbitration (Mar 19, 2004)
Real Madrid has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport for a final ruling on its dispute with Inter Milan over outstanding payments in Ronaldo's transfer to the club, CAS said. . . . more . . .
Wales appeal on Russia thrown out by UEFA (Mar 19, 2004)
European football's governing body UEFA rejected Wales' appeal against a decision to allow Russia to play in the Euro 2004 finals. . . . more . . .
Portuguese PM vows exceptional security at Euro 2004 finals (Mar 19, 2004)
Portugal will have exceptional security in place during the European football finals this June, prime minister Jose Manuel Durao Barroso has said. . . . more . . .
Full-strength Gunners chase record (Mar 19, 2004)
Arsenal have been boosted by the return of Fredrik Ljungberg and Dennis Bergkamp from injury as they seek to make history at home to Bolton on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Robson warns players Euro place at stake (Mar 19, 2004)
Newcastle boss Bobby Robson has warned his players that defeat at home to Charlton on Saturday could mean no European football next season. . . . more . . .
Fergie praises Ferdinand after doping case setback (Mar 19, 2004)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson voiced confidence Rio Ferdinand could bounce back from the disappointment of failing to have his eight-month ban reduced or overturned on appeal. . . . more . . .
Blair's spin doctor linked to Ferguson knighthood (Mar 19, 2004)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is alleged to have won his knighthood in 1999 after the personal intervention of British premier Tony Blair's spin doctor. . . . more . . .
Lyon keeper Coupet set to return at crucial juncture (Mar 19, 2004)
Lyon keeper Gregory Coupet is set to return from a hand injury at home to Nantes on Saturday which would fall nicely with their Champions League quarter-final at Porto fast approaching on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Leeds set for buy-out (Mar 19, 2004)
English Premiership crisis club Leeds United was set to be taken over by a local business consortium after major creditors decided to cut their losses. . . . more . . .
Drogba's not for sale says Marseille coach (Mar 19, 2004)
Marseille coach Jose Anigo ruled out the transfer of Ivorian striker Didier Drogba, stating that the second top scorer in the French league this season was not for sale. . . . more . . .
Liverpool boss defends hard-working players (Mar 19, 2004)
Liverpool manager boss Gerard Houllier, who knows a win over Wolves on Saturday is vital to their European ambitions, refuses to blame his hard-working players for their inconsistency. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand doping ban appeal rejected (Mar 18, 2004)
Rio Ferdinand's eight-month ban for missing a drugs test was upheld by a three-man Football Association (FA) panel after the Manchester United and England defender's appeal hearing. . . . more . . .
Confed Cup 2005 dates announced (Mar 18, 2004)
The 2005 Confederations Cup, which affords hosts Germany a trial run ahead of the next World Cup, will be held between June 15 and 29, FIFA announced. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand loses appeal against doping ban (Mar 18, 2004)
Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand lost his appeal against an eight-month ban for missing a drugs test. . . . more . . .
Manchester United announce second North American tour (Mar 18, 2004)
Manchester United will again be part of a North American tour, the English Premiership club and promoters Champions World announced. . . . more . . .
Confident Ferdinand launches appeal against doping ban (Mar 18, 2004)
Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand launched his appeal against an eight-month ban for missing a doping test by insisting: "I've never taken drugs in my life." . . . more . . .
Larsson chalks up new milestone as Celtic close in on title (Mar 18, 2004)
Henrik Larsson has reached yet another goalscoring milestone after helping Celtic move another step closer to reclaiming the Scottish title in his final season at the club. . . . more . . .
Bakke blow for Leeds battlers (Mar 18, 2004)
Leeds United's relegation battlers have been hit by news that Norwegian midfielder Eirik Bakke is a doubt for the Premiership clash with Manchester City at Elland Road. . . . more . . .
O'Brien keeps Livi double dream alive (Mar 18, 2004)
Burton O'Brien's goal kept Livingston's hopes of a Cup double alive with a 1-0 Scottish Cup quarter-final replay victory against Aberdeen. . . . more . . .
Cudicini ruled out of Arsenal clash (Mar 18, 2004)
Carlo Cudicini will miss both legs of Chelsea's Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal after being ruled out of action for a further month in the wake of surgery on a broken bone in his hand. . . . more . . .
Chelsea job stokes up speculation (Mar 18, 2004)
Chelsea's reported approach for Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld has been denied by the club but only stoked up more speculation over manager Claudio Ranieri's job. . . . more . . .
Dundee promise action on racist fans (Mar 18, 2004)
Dundee have promised to impose lifelong bans on two fans involved in the racist barracking of Celtic's Guinea defender Bobo Balde during Wednesday night's SPL match at Dens Park. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand says he's no drugs cheat (Mar 18, 2004)
Rio Ferdinand has insisted "I've never taken drugs in my life," ahead of his appeal against an eight-month ban for missing a drugs test. . . . more . . .
Qatar surprised by FIFA clampdown on naturalisations (Mar 18, 2004)
The Qatar football federation said it was surprised by FIFA's clampdown on naturalisations by players who do not have an obvious connection with their new country. . . . more . . .
No time to relax for Vieira (Mar 18, 2004)
Patrick Vieira is keeping his fingers crossed that his Arsenal side can steer clear of injuries as the club faces up to a four-match test against Manchester United and Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Celtic relief as Hartson sets sights on August return (Mar 18, 2004)
John Hartson has set his sights on a return to the Celtic team in time for the start of next season, dismising rumours his recent back surgery could bring down the curtain on his career. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand panel considering appeal verdict (Mar 18, 2004)
Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand was left waiting to find out the result of his appeal against an eight-month ban for missing a drugs test after the panel looking into his case concluded its hearing. . . . more . . .
FIFA clamp down on country-changing players (Mar 17, 2004)
World football's governing body FIFA announced strict guidelines for players wishing to represent a country with which they have had no previous connection. . . . more . . .
Minnows Chateauroux knock Monaco out of French Cup (Mar 17, 2004)
Second division Chateauroux were celebrating a historic 1-0 win over the millionaires of Monaco to book their place in the last four of the French Cup. . . . more . . .
Portugal to reimpose border controls before Euro 2004: minister (Mar 17, 2004)
Portugal will reimpose its border controls ahead of the start of the Euro 2004 football tournament this June as a guard against possible terrorist attacks, Interior Minister Antonio Figueiredo Lopes revealed. . . . more . . .
Deisler back in training with Bayern (Mar 17, 2004)
Bayern Munich and Germany received a piece of welcome news when playmaker Sebastian Deisler took part in his first training session since being booked into a clinic for depression last November. . . . more . . .
I turned down Chelsea, Hitzfeld claims (Mar 17, 2004)
Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld claimed he had been offered Claudio Ranieri's job as manager of Chelsea - but the London club immediately denied any approach. . . . more . . .
Liverpool boss Houllier hits out at men in black (Mar 17, 2004)
Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier claims it is the men in black and not Michael Owen's lamentable form which is ruining the club's English Premiership challenge. . . . more . . .
I turned down Chelsea: Hitzfeld (Mar 17, 2004)
Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld said he has rejected an approach from Chelsea to take over from Claudio Ranieri as manager at Stamford Bridge next season. . . . more . . .
South Korea beat Iran and eye Olympics place (Mar 17, 2004)
South Korea edged closer to the Olympics when Lee Chun-Soo fired the only goal in a 1-0 win over Iran in Group A of the final round of Asian qualifiers for the Athens Games. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand had a "result" over ban says Coe (Mar 17, 2004)
Double Olympic gold medallist Sebastian Coe said that Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand had been fortunate to get just an eight-month ban for missing a drugs test. . . . more . . .
Viduka refuses to abandon hope at Leeds (Mar 17, 2004)
Australian striker Mark Viduka insists that last week's defeat at Fulham did not signal the end of Leeds United's English Premiership survival hopes. . . . more . . .
Millwall in semi-finals and UEFA Cup contention (Mar 17, 2004)
First Division Millwall edged one match closer to next season's UEFA Cup when they defeated Tranmere Rovers 2-1 in their FA Cup quarter-final replay at Prenton Park. . . . more . . .
Celtic move closer to title (Mar 17, 2004)
Celtic's remorseless march to the Scottish Premier League title continued with a 2-1 win over Dundee at Dens Park that left the Glasgow giants a huge 19 points clear at the top of the table. . . . more . . .
Giantkillers Aachen sink Gladbach to reach cup final (Mar 17, 2004)
Second division Alemannia Aachen continued their giantkilling of Bundesliga teams defeating Borussia Monchengladbach 1-0 to reach the German Cup final for the first time since 1965. . . . more . . .
Portugal to reimpose border controls before Euro 2004: interior minister (Mar 17, 2004)
Portugal will reimpose its border controls ahead of the start of the Euro 2004 football tournament this June as a guard against possible terrorist attacks, Interior Minister Antonio Figueiredo Lopes said. . . . more . . .
Boa Morte charge "not proven" says FA (Mar 17, 2004)
Misconduct charges against Fulham striker Luis Boa Morte were found to be "not proven" by a Football Association (FA) disciplinary hearing. . . . more . . .
Portuguese armed forces to help police during Euro 2004 (Mar 17, 2004)
Portuguese soldiers could be recruited to help police boost security during the Euro 2004 finals, Defence Minister Paulo Portas revealed. . . . more . . .
FA Cup heroes Milwall focus on promotion (Mar 17, 2004)
Dennis Wise is looking no further ahead than a Sunday meeting against West Ham after steering Millwall through to the semi-finals of the FA Cup for the first time in 67 years. . . . more . . .
China miss out on Rooney fever (Mar 17, 2004)
China's hopes of getting a close-up glimpse of England's teenage striker Wayne Rooney have been dashed after Everton's proposed summer trip to the Far East was cancelled. . . . more . . .
Roman romance spells trouble for Chelsea coach Ranieri (Mar 17, 2004)
Russian oil billionaire Roman Abramovich wants his Chelsea side to win by playing exciting football and that could spell trouble for coach Claudio Ranieri. . . . more . . .
Lazio survival under threat (Mar 17, 2004)
Italian first division club Lazio's survival was thrown into doubt when the Milan stock exchange suspended indefinitely trading in the company's shares. . . . more . . .
United "playing for our futures" says Keane (Mar 17, 2004)
Manchester United captain Roy Keane has warned the club's under-performing stars that their Old Trafford careers are on the line after a series of poor results. . . . more . . .
Owen double does for Pompey (Mar 17, 2004)
Michael Owen went from zero to hero as Liverpool got back to winning ways with a 3-0 victory against Portsmouth here at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Yorke tangles with boss Souness on training pitch (Mar 17, 2004)
Dwight Yorke's future at Blackburn Rovers could be in doubt after an apparent bust-up with manager Graeme Souness on the training pitch. . . . more . . .
Real Zaragoza stun Real Madrid to win Spanish Cup (Mar 17, 2004)
Real Zaragoza stunned Real Madrid with a winning goal in extra time to take the Spanish Cup and dash David Beckham's hopes of a first trophy in Spain. . . . more . . .
Thatcher appeals to Ferdinand (Mar 17, 2004)
Ben Thatcher has appealed to Leicester team-mate Les Ferdinand to carry on playing. . . . more . . .
Hoeness fuels Magath link to Bayern (Mar 17, 2004)
Bayern Munich general manager Uli Hoeness has fuelled speculation that VfB Stuttgart coach Felix Magath could succeed Ottmar Hitzfeld as Bayern chief in 2005. . . . more . . .
Fiore strikes twice to pile misery on Juve (Mar 17, 2004)
Injury-hit Juventus are in danger of finishing the season without a trophy after losing 2-0 to financially stricken Lazio in the first leg of the Italian Cup final. . . . more . . .
German form crisis leaves Voller concerned for Portugal (Mar 17, 2004)
German national coach Rudi Voller admits he is concerned by the form of his players with the 2004 European championships in Portugal less than three months away. . . . more . . .
Trapattoni to call up Baggio for Italy farewell (Mar 17, 2004)
Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni is to invite 37-year-old Roberto Baggio to play for the national team for a final time to honour the former international. . . . more . . .
Lazio under threat as Italian clubs fight for survival (Mar 17, 2004)
Italian first division club Lazio's survival was thrown into doubt when the Milan stock exchange suspended indefinitely trading in the company's shares. . . . more . . .
Real out to end 11 year Cup wait (Mar 17, 2004)
Real Madrid aim to end an 11-year wait and beat Real Zaragoza in the Barcelona Olympic stadium to win the Spanish Cup. . . . more . . .
Nantes join PSG and amateurs in Cup semis (Mar 17, 2004)
Nantes joined Paris St Germain and amateur side Dijon in the semi-finals of the French Cup after coming from behind to beat fellow first division side Rennes 3-2. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand walks disciplinary tightrope (Mar 17, 2004)
Rio Ferdinand will walk a disciplinary high wire without any safety net when his appeal against an eight-month ban for missing a doping test gets underway on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Abramovich's millions to help sponsor CSKA Moscow (Mar 17, 2004)
Russian champions CSKA Moscow signed a three-year sponsorship deal worth 54 million dollars with Sibneft - the oil giant which is owned by Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich. . . . more . . .
Leicester trio back in Adams plans (Mar 17, 2004)
Three Leicester City players accused of sexual assault in Spain are in contention for a place in manager Micky Adams's squad to face Everton in a Premiership match on Saturday. . . . more . . .
PSG end plucky Brive's dream Cup run (Mar 16, 2004)
Paris Saint Germain had to come from behind to overhaul the giant killing amateur side Brive 2-1 in a French Cup quarter-final. . . . more . . .
Dede to snub Qatar to avoid Dortmund quarrel (Mar 16, 2004)
Borussia Dortmund's Brazilian defender Dede insists he is willing to snub a lucrative chance to play for oil-rich Qatar because he does not want to upset his club. . . . more . . .
Houllier backs Owen to fire Reds into Europe (Mar 16, 2004)
Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier has given misfiring striker Michael Owen a vote of confidence and insisted his side are on track to return to the Champions League next season. . . . more . . .
Valdez shoots late Bremen into Cup final (Mar 16, 2004)
Bundesliga leaders Werder Bremen needed to show all their steel to reach the German Cup final with two late strikes from Brazilian Ailton and Paraguayan Nelson Haedo Valdez sinking second division VfB Lubeck 3-2 in extra-time. . . . more . . .
European giants turn backs on world club championship (Mar 16, 2004)
Europe's top clubs insisted they will not take part in the 2005 World Club Championship. . . . more . . .
Leicester trio set for reserve match (Mar 16, 2004)
The three Leicester City players charged with sexual assault during the club's training week in Spain will return to action in a reserve match away to Southampton on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
English FA speeds up red card sanctions (Mar 16, 2004)
The English Football Association has fallen into line with the rest of world football by introducing automatic next-match bans for players who receive red cards. . . . more . . .
United board give Ferguson vote of confidence (Mar 16, 2004)
Alex Ferguson has won a vote of confidence from the Manchester United board but his former captain says he got it wrong this season and the club will finish without a trophy. . . . more . . .
Leicester trio back on the pitch (Mar 16, 2004)
The three Leicester players charged with sexual assault during the Premiership club's training week in Spain played in their first match since being released on bail. . . . more . . .
Anelka attempts to kiss and make-up with Santini (Mar 16, 2004)
France's Euro 2000 winning striker Nicolas Anelka made a late bid to regain his place in the squad when he apologised to national coach Jacques Santini and his team-mates. . . . more . . .
Brazilian Ailton eyes Muller benchmark (Mar 16, 2004)
Werder Bremen's prolific Brazilian marksman Ailton has set his sights on Gerd Muller's Bundesliga record of 40 goals. . . . more . . .
Vietnamese police investigating football players over brawl death (Mar 16, 2004)
Vietnamese police were investigating the involvement of seven professional football players, including a national squad member, over the death of a 24-year-old man in a brawl. . . . more . . .
Wildmoser quits over Munich bribe scandal (Mar 16, 2004)
Karl-Heinz Wildmoser has resigned from his post as president of 1860 Munich after recent bribe accusations cast a cloud over the Bavarian club. . . . more . . .
Olympiakos fires Protasov (Mar 16, 2004)
Greek first division power Olympiakos Piraeus announced that they had fired Ukrainian coach Oleg Protasov and replaced him with Serbian assistant Sinisa Gogic. . . . more . . .
Bahrain beat UAE 2-0 to keep Olympic hopes alive (Mar 16, 2004)
Makki Hussain Salman fired home the decisive goal as Bahrain defeated the United Arab Emirates 2-0 in the Asian final qualifying round to have a big chance of qualifying for the Athens Olympics. . . . more . . .
Hitzfeld opinion is all that counts says under-fire Ballack (Mar 16, 2004)
Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack claims internal criticism about his performances is not important so long as he has the support of manager Ottmar Hitzfeld. . . . more . . .
Villa banking on Delaney to clinch European spot (Mar 16, 2004)
Aston Villa hope to have Welsh midfielder Mark Delaney back next month to boost their push for a European spot. . . . more . . .
Nigeria plan training stint in France ahead Olympic qualifier (Mar 16, 2004)
Nigeria plan to train in Paris for at least a week before their crucial 2004 Olympic qualifying tie in Tunisia later this month. . . . more . . .
Beckham at one with Spanish people after attacks (Mar 15, 2004)
England captain and Real Madrid star David Beckham says he feels "part of the Spanish people" following the bomb blasts which killed 200 people last week. . . . more . . .
Italian clubs given tax warning (Mar 15, 2004)
Italian clubs must pay their tax arrears or risk being thrown out of the league, the president of Italy's professional football league Adriano Galliani said. . . . more . . .
Redknapp offered Pompey contract extension (Mar 15, 2004)
Portsmouth have offered manager Harry Redknapp a year's extension to his contract that would keep him at Fratton Park until 2006. . . . more . . .
Fergie hoping for Rio result after derby despair (Mar 15, 2004)
Alex Ferguson is looking for "fairness" when suspended Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand goes before an appeal hearing to contest his eight-month ban for missing a drugs test. . . . more . . .
Juve and Bayern slump to new lows (Mar 15, 2004)
Juventus and Bayern Munich, two of the most powerful club sides in Europe, saw their seasons sink to new depths of despair at the weekend. . . . more . . .
Ferguson fears Man United losing touch with Arsenal (Mar 15, 2004)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson admits it will be hard to catch Arsenal for the title after a sloppy defensive display saw United crash to their worst Premiership defeat in five years. . . . more . . .
Leicester begin inquiry into players' conduct (Mar 15, 2004)
Leicester have initiated an internal probe into the events during their training week in Spain which ended with three players charged with sexual assault offences. . . . more . . .
Chelsea reserve keeper thrust into spotlight (Mar 15, 2004)
Marco Ambrosio admits he does not know if he will be up to the job in the thrilling climax to Chelsea's season. . . . more . . .
Drop Owen? You must be joking, says Houllier (Mar 15, 2004)
Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier has insisted that England striker Michael Owen's place in the Merseysiders' team is safe despite another below-par performance in the 2-0 defeat at Southampton. . . . more . . .
Fish out for three weeks (Mar 15, 2004)
Charlton's Mark Fish will be out for at least three weeks, the English Premiership side said. . . . more . . .
Redknapp signs Pompey contract extension (Mar 15, 2004)
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp has signed an extension to his contract that will keep him at Fratton Park until 2006. . . . more . . .
Euro 2004 hosts beef up security after Madrid blasts (Mar 15, 2004)
As evidence mounted that Islamic militants were behind the deadly train bombs in Spain, neighbouring Portugal beefed up security amid growing fears that the European football finals which the country will host this June could be a prime target for terrorists. . . . more . . .
Fans see red over FA Cup seat cuts (Mar 15, 2004)
Manchester United have had their ticket allocation for next month's FA Cup semi-final cut by 1,500. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand should have ban reduced says Eriksson (Mar 15, 2004)
Manchester United central defender Rio Ferdinand should have his eight-month suspension reduced for failing to attend a drugs test said England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson. . . . more . . .
Government approval needed to fire Senegal coach (Mar 15, 2004)
Guy Stephan's dismissal as Senegal coach needs to be ratified by the government after the country's football federation decided to axe him. . . . more . . .
Advantage Arsenal after United derby defeat (Mar 15, 2004)
Arsenal and Charlton were the real winners after Sunday's Premier League matches even though neither of the London clubs kicked a ball. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo to miss Real's Champions League clash with Monaco (Mar 15, 2004)
Brazil World Cup star Ronaldo will miss Real Madrid's Champions League quarter-final clash with Monaco on March 23. . . . more . . .
Dortmund sales too expensive claims Rummenigge (Mar 15, 2004)
Bayern Munich vice-president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge claims financially-troubled rivals Borussia Dortmund have to wake up and realise the true value of their stars in a depressed transfer market. . . . more . . .
O'Brien own goal derails Newcastle (Mar 14, 2004)
Andy O'Brien's own goal four minutes from time gave Tottenham a 1-0 Premier League victory over Newcastle United here at White Hart Lane and thwarted the visitors' bid to regain the fourth and final Champions League spot on offer to English clubs. . . . more . . .
City stun United in dramatic derby (Mar 14, 2004)
Manchester City put a huge dent into arch-rivals Manchester United's hopes of successfully defending their Premier League title with a crushing 4-1 win for only their third win against their bitter rivals in United manager Alex Ferguson's 17 year tenure. . . . more . . .
Rufete double takes Valencia closer to Real Madrid (Mar 14, 2004)
Two goals from Francisco Rufete helped Valencia close the gap on Spanish league leaders Real Madrid to four points after they won 2-0 at relegation-threatened Celta Vigo. . . . more . . .
Thai PM negotiating to buy into Premiership giants Liverpool (Mar 14, 2004)
Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is in negotiations to buy a stake in English Premiership side Liverpool after a failed bid to purchase Fulham, his advisor Thawatchai Sajakul said. . . . more . . .
Larsson to the rescue but Bhoys' winning streak comes to an end (Mar 14, 2004)
Henrik Larsson came to Celtic's resuce with a game-tying goal against Motherwell although the 1-1 draw ended the league leaders' 25-game winning streak. . . . more . . .
Reggina slow Roma's title push (Mar 14, 2004)
Roma's Serie A title challenge lost momentum after they were held to a goalless draw away to struggling Reggina. . . . more . . .
Bremen close in on title as enigmatic Bayern stumble (Mar 14, 2004)
Werder Bremen have one hand on the German championship after moving nine points clear of holders Bayern Munich with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Cologne. . . . more . . .
Football stadia expansion set to boost wealthy English clubs (Mar 14, 2004)
They boast abundant wealth compared with most of their European peers, but England's leading football clubs have their eyes set on greater riches as they rush to welcome thousands more fans through the turnstiles. . . . more . . .
Stuttgart stay on track for Champions League spot (Mar 14, 2004)
VfB Stuttgart put their Champions League exit behind them notching up a 2-0 win over ten-man 1860 Munich to keep up their bid for a spot in the competition next season. . . . more . . .
Third time unlucky for Deportivo (Mar 14, 2004)
Deportivo La Coruna's dismal recent run of form on the domestic front continued when they crashed 4-2 at Real Mallorca, the Galician's third consecutive defeat. . . . more . . .
Gunners march on as Leicester fight back (Mar 14, 2004)
Arsenal marched another step closer to reclaiming the English Premiership title as Leicester ended a tumultuous week on a high by escaping from the relegation zone. . . . more . . .
Marseille move out of the mire (Mar 14, 2004)
The fortunes of Marseille caretaker coach Jose Anigo looked on the ascendancy after a 4-0 drubbing of ten-man Strasbourg only days after their impressive 1-1 UEFA Cup draw with Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Angel's double delight as toothless Wolves crumble (Mar 14, 2004)
Colombian international striker Juan-Pablo Angel scored twice as Aston Villa thrashed struggling Wolves 4-0 at Molineux. . . . more . . .
Sturrock off to Saintly start as Liverpool lose (Mar 14, 2004)
Southampton gave new manager Paul Sturrock a winning start with a 2-0 Premier League victory over Liverpool here at St Mary's. . . . more . . .
Monaco fall flat in Burgundy to uncork French title race (Mar 14, 2004)
Monaco were brought back to earth with a bump after a scoreless draw at Auxerre left Didier Deschamps' Principality side barely hanging on to the lead in the French league. . . . more . . .
Barcelona on a roll with eight straight (Mar 14, 2004)
Barcelona's bid for a Champions League slot next season gathered pace when they moved up to third in the Spanish first division after beating bottom club Murcia 2-0 for their eight straight victory. . . . more . . .
Hitzfeld is simply the best protests Kahn (Mar 14, 2004)
Bayern Munich captain Oliver Kahn has leapt to the defence of manager Ottmar Hitzfeld after the 3-3 draw with Hansa Rostock all but ended Bayern's hopes of silverware this season. . . . more . . .
Moyes hails magical Rooney (Mar 14, 2004)
Everton manager David Moyes was full of praise for Wayne Rooney after the teenage striker turned on the magic to hit the only goal of the game to give the Merseysiders a 1-0 win over Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
Ferguson blames Kenyon for missing out on Ronaldinho (Mar 14, 2004)
Missing out on Ronaldinho's signature was through Peter Kenyon's failure to get the job done, Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson said. . . . more . . .
Milan trip up 'Old Lady' to edge closer to title (Mar 14, 2004)
Leaders AC Milan took a step closer to their first Serie A league title since 1999 after defeating championship rivals Juventus 3-1 in Turin. . . . more . . .
Beckham dismisses rumours of homecoming (Mar 14, 2004)
David Beckham has dismissed speculation that he is on the verge of a multi-million pound move back to England as "rubbish" and insisted he wants to see out the remaining three and a half years of his Real Madrid contract. . . . more . . .
PFA need to set standards says former England captain Lineker (Mar 14, 2004)
Standards of behaviour need to be drawn up by the Professional Footballers' Association after three Leicester players were accused of sexual assault, former England captain Gary Lineker said. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid settle for solemn draw (Mar 13, 2004)
Real Madrid played out a half-hearted 1-1 draw with Real Zaragoza in a match that many supporters would have preferred to have been postponed in the wake of Thursday's bombings. . . . more . . .
Title race still on says Ferdinand (Mar 13, 2004)
England defender Rio Ferdinand has said Manchester United can still win the Premiership title even though they are nine points behind leaders Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Portuguese air force set to help Euro 2004 security (Mar 13, 2004)
The Portuguese air force are set to patrol air space at stadiums on match days at Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Lyon back in the hunt for French title (Mar 13, 2004)
French champions Lyon gave their fellow Champions League quarter-finalists Monaco food for thought with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over on-form Sochaux. . . . more . . .
Celtic to appeal Douglas red card (Mar 13, 2004)
Celtic are to ask UEFA to rescind the red card shown to goalkeeper Rab Douglas following a tunnel fracas at half-time in Thursday's 1-0 win over Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Bremen close in on title as enigmatic Bayern stumble (Mar 13, 2004)
Werder Bremen appear to have one hand on the German championship after moving nine points clear of holders Bayern Munich with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Cologne. . . . more . . .
Accused trio to return to training as Leicester fight back (Mar 13, 2004)
The three Leicester City players accused of a serious sexual assault during a recent trip to Spain will resume training with the English Premiership club on Monday, manager Micky Adams confirmed after his under-fire side escaped from the relegation zone. . . . more . . .
Chelsea looking for revenge says Gronkjaer (Mar 13, 2004)
Chelsea will be looking for revenge against Arsenal in the first clash between English sides in Europe's premier club competition for 26 years, said Blues winger Jesper Gronkjaer. . . . more . . .
Henry and Pires ensure no repeat of Arsenal's slip-up against Rovers (Mar 13, 2004)
A stunning freekick by French international striker Thierry Henry ensured Premiership leaders Arsenal did not slip-up against Blackburn Rovers as they did at the same stage of last season as they beat their opponents 2-0. . . . more . . .
Vibrant Gunners have won over neutral fans claims Cole (Mar 13, 2004)
Treble-chasing Arsenal have won over neutral fans because of their exciting style of football claimed their England international left back Ashley Cole. . . . more . . .
'Scapegoat' Xavier gets vote of confidence (Mar 13, 2004)
Portuguese defender Abel Xavier has received a vote of confidence from new Hannover coach Ewald Lienen after the player threatened to walk out on the club. . . . more . . .
I was morally obliged to offer resignation says Adams (Mar 13, 2004)
Leicester City's dignified manager Micky Adams admitted he had felt morally obliged to offer to resign in the wake of the sex scandal that has engulfed the club during their break in Spain. . . . more . . .
Rangers slip up again (Mar 13, 2004)
Celtic will stretch their lead in the Scottish Premier League to 18 points if they win at Motherwell on Sunday after yet another slip-up by misfiring rivals Rangers. . . . more . . .
Late and lethal Chelsea floor Bolton (Mar 13, 2004)
Chelsea left it late to strike but when they did they were lethal, two sweeping moves out of defence securing a 2-0 win over Bolton that will pile further pressure on Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Sampdoria keep up UEFA Cup push (Mar 13, 2004)
Sampdoria kept their hopes of booking a place in next season's UEFA Cup alive with a battling 3-2 win over Bologna in Serie A. . . . more . . .
Thompson gives Celtic the edge in battle of Parkhead (Mar 12, 2004)
Celtic's hopes of another UEFA Cup adventure were left hanging in the balance as Martin O'Neill's side emerged from a shower of red cards with only a 1-0 lead to take to Barcelona. . . . more . . .
O'Neill confident Celts can survive Nou Camp ordeal (Mar 12, 2004)
Martin O'Neill is cautiously optimistic that Celtic can survive a testing examination in Barcelona's Nou Camp stadium in a fortnight's time and book their place in the last eight of the UEFA Cup. . . . more . . .
Eriksson faces winters of discontent (Mar 12, 2004)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson hit out on Friday after plans to introduce a winter break in the Premiership were thrown out. . . . more . . .
Arsenal give Souness sleepless nights (Mar 12, 2004)
Blackburn may have helped to wreck Arsenal's title challenge last season -- but Graeme Souness is under no illusions about the scale of the task facing his side as they try to halt the Gunners in their tracks. . . . more . . .
Adams tells crisis-hit Foxes to focus on beating relegation (Mar 12, 2004)
Leicester boss Micky Adams has told his players they must forget about the sex scandal engulfing the club and concentrate fully on the team's fight for Premiership survival. . . . more . . .
Fortune ruled out for rest of season (Mar 12, 2004)
Quinton Fortune has been ruled out for the rest of Manchester United's season following knee surgery, the club's manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, confirmed. . . . more . . .
Leicester bans after-match booze as sex case players released on bail (Mar 12, 2004)
English Premiership football club Leicester City has decided to ban alcohol from the club bar and promised a thorough investigation into its players alleged involvement in a serious sexual assault during a trip to Spain. . . . more . . .
Bayern look to topple Bremen in last throw of dice (Mar 12, 2004)
German champions Bayern Munich look to flush their Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid out of their system and focus 100 percent on the Bundesliga - their last hope of silverware this season. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand hair-test to prove his innocence (Mar 12, 2004)
England defender Rio Ferdinand will appeal against his eight-month suspension for missing a drugs test by producing a hair sample which he claims will prove he never took drugs. . . . more . . .
UEFA vows to drugs test all Euro 2004 teams before competition starts (Mar 12, 2004)
All 16 teams taking part in the Euro 2004 football finals this summer in Portugal will undergo drugs testing at least once before the three-week tournament begins on June 12, a top UEFA official said. . . . more . . .
Masterful Milan looking to pile misery on frail 'Old Lady' (Mar 12, 2004)
League leaders AC Milan can add insult to injury by striking a potentially fatal blow to the championship hopes of fierce rivals Juventus when the teams meet for a Scudetto showdown in Turin. . . . more . . .
Terror attacks will not stop Spanish football (Mar 12, 2004)
The minds of most Spaniards are far from the championship race in the wake of the horrific bombings in Madrid, and a game of football seems trivial compared to the lives that were lost, but the Spanish federation confirmed here that this weekend's games will go ahead. . . . more . . .
Chelsea put on Beckham alert (Mar 12, 2004)
Big-spenders Chelsea were reported to be ready to make a staggering 140 million pound (252 million dollar) bid for Real Madrid's David Beckham after learning the England captain had cancelled his Madrid house. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid stand in way of English challenge (Mar 12, 2004)
Chelsea and Arsenal were drawn in a mouth-watering all-English European Champions League quarter-final with the prospective of facing Real Madrid in the semi-finals. . . . more . . .
Leicester players released on bail in Spain (Mar 12, 2004)
Three Leicester City players being held in Spain over accusations of sexual assault have been released on bail, the men's lawyer Ana Ruiperez revealed. . . . more . . .
Fergie fitted with a pacemaker (Mar 12, 2004)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insisted it was business as usual after being fitted with a pacemaker. . . . more . . .
Liverpool left with unenviable task (Mar 11, 2004)
Liverpool must score in two weeks' time in Marseille to stay alive in the UEFA Cup after the French club forced a battling 1-1 draw in the first leg of their fourth round match. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Cudicini injured (Mar 11, 2004)
Chelsea were rocked by the news that in-form goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini had broken a bone in his right hand. . . . more . . .
Qatar mercenaries not for us: Bayern Munich (Mar 11, 2004)
Bayern Munich-vice president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has revealed the club would refuse to sign foreign mercenaries such as Brazilian pair Dede and Ailton, who are poised to play for oil-rich Qatar in the 2006 World Cup qualifiers. . . . more . . .
Nigerian outcast Oliseh eyes Bundesliga return (Mar 11, 2004)
Nigerian Sunday Oliseh hopes for a swift return to the Bundesliga after being released by VfL Bochum following a punch-up with Iranian international team-mate Vahid Hashemian. . . . more . . .
UEFA confirm Spanish matches will go ahead (Mar 11, 2004)
European football's governing body UEFA said four Spanish clubs -- Barcelona, Valencia, Villareal and Real Mallorca -- would play their UEFA Cup matches despite the train bomb blasts that killed at least 173 in Madrid. . . . more . . .
UEFA confirm Spanish matches will still go-ahead (Mar 11, 2004)
European football's governing body UEFA has confirmed that four Spanish clubs -- Barcelona, Valencia, Villareal and Real Mallorca -- would play their UEFA Cup matches despite the train bomb blasts that killed at least 170 in Madrid. . . . more . . .
Leicester players put on brave face (Mar 11, 2004)
Leicester City's players have vowed to stick together to escape relegation and fight off the sex attack scandal which has engulfed the club in Spain. . . . more . . .
PSV take huge step towards UEFA Cup last eight (Mar 11, 2004)
PSV Eindhoven took a huge step towards the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup when Theo Lucius capitalised on a defensive error to give his side a 1-1 draw against Auxerre. . . . more . . .
Leicester players to be released on bail in Spain (Mar 11, 2004)
The three Leicester City players being held in Spain over accusations of sexual assault will be released on bail, the investigating judge hearing the case said. . . . more . . .
Four star Newcastle down Mallorca (Mar 11, 2004)
Newcastle came from a goal behind to down Real Mallorca 4-1 in a dramatic UEFA Cup fourth round first leg victory here at St James' Park. . . . more . . .
Bayern get no sympathy in Germany (Mar 11, 2004)
Bayern Munich were given no sympathy after limping out of the Champions League in Madrid. . . . more . . .
Beckham fancies Real clash with Arsenal (Mar 11, 2004)
Real Madrid star David Beckham is looking forward to a joust with Thierry Henry's Gunners when the European Champions League quarter-final draw is made on Friday. . . . more . . .
Neville fears for Red Devils (Mar 11, 2004)
Veteran England defender Gary Neville fears Manchester United's season has gone pear-shaped and has issued a rousing call to his team-mates to get their act together. . . . more . . .
Bellamy upbeat about Mallorca chances (Mar 11, 2004)
Craig Bellamy has backed himself to be fit for Newcastle's UEFA Cup tie against Real Mallorca. . . . more . . .
Houllier wary of Marseille backlash (Mar 11, 2004)
Gerard Houllier has warned Liverpool to be wary of the threat from a wounded Marseille team when they meet here at Anfield in the UEFA Cup fourth round, first leg tie. . . . more . . .
Larsson ready to fill in Barca job application (Mar 11, 2004)
Sabotaging the business of a prospective employer is not usually an advisable strategy for the eager job-hunter. . . . more . . .
South Korean star Cha looks for goals (Mar 11, 2004)
Eintracht Frankfurt's South Korean marksman Du-Ri Cha admits he needs to start scoring in the Bundesliga as that is what strikers are judged on. . . . more . . .
Bundesliga reputation plummets after European nightmare (Mar 11, 2004)
The reputation of German clubs in Europe has sunk to an all-time low with all seven of the Bundesliga representatives failing to make an impact in the UEFA Cup or the Champions League this season. . . . more . . .
Dugarry leaves Birmingham (Mar 11, 2004)
Birmingham City confirmed that French international striker Christophe Dugarry has left the English Premiership side by mutual consent. . . . more . . .
Chinese footballer's height may have saved team-mates (Mar 11, 2004)
A Chinese footballer killed by lightning was hailed as a "sports" martyr by Singapore league officials who say the player's unusual height may have spared the lives of his team mates. . . . more . . .
Lauren keeping his feet on the ground (Mar 11, 2004)
Arsenal right-back Lauren is in no mood to let the Gunners' success this season go to his head. . . . more . . .
Thompson gives Celtic the edge in battle of Parkhead (Mar 11, 2004)
Celtic's hopes of another UEFA Cup adventure were left hanging in the balance as Martin O'Neill's side emerged from a shower of red cards with only a 1-0 lead to take to Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Giresse takes over Georgian national hotseat (Mar 10, 2004)
Former French midfield great Alain Giresse is set to try and reinvigorate his ailing coaching career by taking over as Georgian national boss, he revealed to AFP. . . . more . . .
McCarthy in 77th heaven as Fergie left shell shocked (Mar 10, 2004)
Benni McCarthy insisted FC Porto had deserved to dump Manchester United out of the Champions League, despite having to rely on a last-minute equaliser at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
High-flying Arsenal in Euro test (Mar 10, 2004)
High-flying Arsenal face a test of their European Champions League credentials when they face Celta Vigo at Highbury in a bid to claim a place in the quarter finals. . . . more . . .
Monaco stumble into quarter finals as Lokomotiv run out of steam (Mar 10, 2004)
Croatian Dado Prso made amends for a first-half penalty miss for Monaco by scoring the winning goal in a 1-0 win over Lokomotiv Moscow to guarantee their Champions League quarter-final spot. . . . more . . .
Fergie left shell shocked as McCarthy in 77th heaven (Mar 10, 2004)
Benni McCarthy insisted FC Porto had deserved to dump Manchester United out of the Champions League, despite having to rely on a last-minute equaliser at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Henry fires Gunners into Champions League quarter-finals (Mar 10, 2004)
Arsenal eased into the Champions League quarter-finals for the second time in their history with a 2-0 win over Celta Vigo at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Blackburn ban trips after trouble in Spain (Mar 10, 2004)
Blackburn Rovers boss Graeme Souness has banned any further overseas trips for his squad after they ran into trouble in Spain. . . . more . . .
Ferguson shocked by Cup defeat (Mar 10, 2004)
Alex Ferguson admits he was "shocked" by Manchester United's Champions League defeat to Porto but vowed that United will bounce back. . . . more . . .
Red Devils suffer Champions League hell and Juventus join them (Mar 10, 2004)
European giants Manchester United and Juventus crashed out of the Champions League following their first knockout round second leg matches. . . . more . . .
Leicester trio out of Birmingham match (Mar 10, 2004)
Leicester City manager Micky Adams has all but given up hope of having Paul Dickov, Keith Gillespie or Frank Sinclair available for Saturday's Premiership match at Birmingham. . . . more . . .
Zidane the difference as Real edge out Bayern (Mar 10, 2004)
Nine-time champions Real Madrid edged out four-time winners Bayern Munich 1-0 here to squeak into the Champions League quarter-finals at the Bernabeu, completing a 2-1 aggregate success. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko at the double as holders Milan oust Sparta (Mar 10, 2004)
Holders AC Milan were given a fright by Sparta Prague before claiming their place in the last eight of the Champions League with a 4-1 victory over the plucky Czechs. . . . more . . .
Lippi staying put says Juve director Moggi (Mar 10, 2004)
Juventus general director Luciano Moggi quashed talk that coach Marcello Lippi will be shown the door at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Bates sues Chelsea (Mar 10, 2004)
Former Chelsea chairman Ken Bates is suing the club following his acrimonious departure from Stamford Bridge earlier this month, the English Premiership high-flyers confirmed. . . . more . . .
Adams gives Leicester players a day off (Mar 10, 2004)
Leicester City manager Micky Adams has given his players a day off training in a bid to "clear their thoughts" ahead of Saturday's Premiership match with Birmingham. . . . more . . .
UEFA vows to drugs test all Euro 2004 teams before competition starts (Mar 10, 2004)
All 16 teams taking part in the Euro 2004 football finals this summer in Portugal will undergo drugs testing at least once before the three-week tournament begins on June 12, a top UEFA official said. . . . more . . .
Gilberto gunning for treble (Mar 10, 2004)
Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva said the club could emulate the feat of English rivals Manchester United by claiming a treble haul of trophies in the one season. . . . more . . .
Houllier optimistic of Champions League qualification (Mar 10, 2004)
Liverpool's embattled manager Gerard Houllier said on the eve of the UEFA Cup match against Marseille that the return from injury of strikers Milan Barros and Michael Owen left the destiny in their own hands to qualify for the Champions League. . . . more . . .
McLeish ready for Rangers clear-out (Mar 10, 2004)
Rangers manager Alex McLeish has already told several players that their days at Ibrox are numbered with Emerson, Christian Nerlinger and Nuno Capucho among those set to leave the Glasgow giants at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Costinha's last gasp effort makes it hell for Red Devils (Mar 09, 2004)
A last-minute equaliser by Porto's Portuguese international midfielder Costinha sent Manchester United crashing out of the Champions League as they drew 1-1 but went out 3-2 on aggregate. . . . more . . .
Ferguson rallies United for Porto grudge match (Mar 09, 2004)
It may not be their last chance of silverware but there is little doubt that Manchester United's season will turn on the outcome of what promises to be an exhilarating Champions League encounter with FC Porto. . . . more . . .
German soccer boss detained in World Cup stadium probe (Mar 09, 2004)
Karl-Heinz Wildmoser, president of Munich 1860, was detained in police investigations into the building contract for the new Allianz-Arena stadium which is set to stage the opening match in the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Leicester players face showdown with accusers (Mar 09, 2004)
Three Leicester City footballers held in Spain over a sex case are set for a courtroom showdown with their accusers on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Sacked Oliseh gets Nigeria lifeline (Mar 09, 2004)
Former Nigeria skipper Sunday Oliseh, fired by German club VfL Bochum, will be given a chance to return to his country's team, according to coach Christian Chukwu. . . . more . . .
United missing Rio says Eriksson (Mar 09, 2004)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson said that Manchester United were suffering without suspended central defender Rio Ferdinand. . . . more . . .
Nemeth strike sinks Spurs (Mar 09, 2004)
Szilard Nemeth's second-half goal was good enough to give League Cup winners Middlesbrough their first home win in two months with a 1-0 Premiership victory against Tottenham here at the Riverside. . . . more . . .
Chelsea scrape past Stuttgart to make last eight (Mar 09, 2004)
Chelsea held on to their 1-0 first-leg lead and booked a place in the quarter-finals of the Champions League after a 0-0 draw against VfB Stuttgart in a tense encounter at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Asia's finest to face UEFA Cup winners in new one-off fixture (Mar 09, 2004)
Asian football chiefs unveiled plans for an annual fixture pitting the continent's best club against the winners of Europe's UEFA Cup. . . . more . . .
Lienen new Hannover coach (Mar 09, 2004)
Ewald Lienen has been named the new coach of German league club Hannover 96 in place of Ralf Rangnick who was fired because of the team's poor results. . . . more . . .
Barca eye Celtic's Larsson (Mar 09, 2004)
Barcelona have thrown a spanner into the works ahead of their UEFA Cup fourth round first leg tie against Celtic by saying they would like to sign the Bhoys' star striker Henrik Larsson. . . . more . . .
Leicester trio set to give evidence in sex case Thursday (Mar 09, 2004)
Three Leicester City footballers held in Spain over a sex case are set to appear in court on Thursday to plead their innocence, judicial sources said. . . . more . . .
Arsenal-United semi-final at Villa Park (Mar 09, 2004)
Arsenal and Manchester United will play their FA Cup semi-final at Villa Park on Saturday, April 3, the Football Association announced. . . . more . . .
Valencia target Metz goalie Butelle (Mar 09, 2004)
Spanish titlechasers Valencia are interested in signing Metz goalkeeper Ludovic Butelle, the player said. . . . more . . .
Lyon make history but lose Coupet for last eight (Mar 09, 2004)
French champions Lyon assured their place in the last eight of the Champions League for the first time with a 1-0 win over Real Sociedad of Spain in their first knockout round second leg tie. . . . more . . .
Juve say arrivederci as Pandiani gives Deportivo the edge (Mar 09, 2004)
Deportivo La Coruna sent Juventus tumbling out of the Champions League after defeating last season's beaten finalists 1-0 in the first knockout second leg tie. . . . more . . .
Michel confirms Ivory Coast job (Mar 09, 2004)
Former France and Cameroon national coach Henri Michel is to take charge of Ivory Coast with the aim of leading them to the 2006 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Stuttgart look to upset Chelsea (Mar 09, 2004)
VfB Stuttgart coach Felix Magath was predicting an upset against Chelsea in the Champions League after watching his side become only the second club to win at Borussia Dortmund this season. . . . more . . .
Money-bags United accused of running scared (Mar 09, 2004)
Manchester United, named the world's wealthiest football club last week, have been accused of running scared of modest Portuguese side Porto. . . . more . . .
UEFA wants 3-match ban for Keane (Mar 09, 2004)
European football's governing body UEFA wants a three-match ban for Manchester United captain Roy Keane who has been suspended for one match by the body's disciplinary committee for stamping Porto goalkeeper Vitor Baia a fortnight ago. . . . more . . .
Arsenal face Man United in FA Cup semi-finals (Mar 08, 2004)
English Premiership leaders Arsenal were drawn agaunst champions Manchester United in the FA Cup semi-finals. . . . more . . .
Leicester manager Adams to stay on (Mar 08, 2004)
Leicester City manager Micky Adams has confirmed he will be staying with the club which has been rocked by a sex assault scandal in Spain. . . . more . . .
Qataris confident Ailton and Dede will sign after negotiations stall (Mar 08, 2004)
The Qatar football federation's (QFA) bid to lure Brazilians Ailton, Dede and Leandro to their national squad was hanging in the balance after 15 hours of talks ended inconclusively here. . . . more . . .
Howard Wilkinson arrives in China to take on new Shanghai club post (Mar 08, 2004)
Former Leeds United and Sunderland manager Howard Wilkinson has arrived in China to take up his new post as coach of league champions Shanghai Shenhua, state press reported. . . . more . . .
Tunisia trip wears out Jay Jay (Mar 08, 2004)
Jay-Jay Okocha has admitted the African Nations Cup campaign has affected his recent performances for Bolton. . . . more . . .
Euro 2004 security chief slams "security psychosis" surrounding tournament (Mar 08, 2004)
Euro 2004 security chief Leonel Carvalho slammed what he termed the "security psychosis" surrounding the organisation for this summer's football tournament. . . . more . . .
Anelka vows to remain City boy (Mar 08, 2004)
France's Euro 2000 winning striker Nicolas Anelka will not walk away from struggling Premiership side Manchester City at the end of the present campaign, he insisted. . . . more . . .
Blackburn seal Gallagher's future (Mar 08, 2004)
Blackburn's 19-year-old striker Paul Gallagher has signed a new deal to stay at Ewood Park until the summer of 2008. . . . more . . .
Leicester manager Adams to stay on as trio remain in prison (Mar 08, 2004)
Leicester City manager Micky Adams has confirmed he will be staying with the Premiership club which has been rocked by a sex assault scandal in Spain. . . . more . . .
United are a shadow of their former selves claims McCarthy (Mar 08, 2004)
Manchester United are not the side they once were claimed Porto's South African international striker Benni McCarthy further stoking up the animosity between the two sides on the eve of their Champions League second round second leg match at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Gunners style puts smile back on the face of English football (Mar 07, 2004)
At the end of a week that saw three Premiership players incarcerated in a Spanish jail on serious sexual assault charges, English football was badly in need of a lift. . . . more . . .
Jamaican Taylor eager to play soccer in US (Mar 07, 2004)
Jamaica's Fabian Taylor is set to join the New Jersey MetroStars, the US Major League Soccer club announced. . . . more . . .
Leicester players hope for release (Mar 07, 2004)
A senior Spanish judge will consider on Monday whether or not the three Premiership footballers facing charges of sexual assault can be freed from prison. . . . more . . .
Stuttgart ready to "embarrass" Chelsea says Magath (Mar 07, 2004)
VfB Stuttgart can embarrass Premiership title contenders Chelsea in the return leg of their Champions League knockout clash, according to their manager Felix Magath. . . . more . . .
Larsson's killer instinct proves fatal for Rangers season (Mar 07, 2004)
Henrik Larsson's killer instinct proved fatal for Rangers' season as Celtic marched another step closer to a Scottish league and cup double. . . . more . . .
Bruce urges Birmingham to keep foot on the pedal (Mar 07, 2004)
Birmingham boss Steve Bruce has urged his side to keep their foot on the pedal after watching them give their chance of European football next season another huge boost with a 2-0 win over Bolton. . . . more . . .
AC Milan steamroller ahead (Mar 07, 2004)
AC Milan's title challenge remained firmly on track when they consolidated their Serie A lead with a convincing 3-1 win over Sampdoria at the San Siro. . . . more . . .
Marseille humiliation is good news for Liverpool (Mar 07, 2004)
Marseille's build-up to Thursday's UEFA Cup clash with Liverpool was left in tatters when they crashed to a humiliating 4-1 French league defeat at Bastia. . . . more . . .
Ferguson counting on Cup tonic to cure Champions League woes (Mar 07, 2004)
Alex Ferguson hailed his side's advance to within one match of an FA Cup final appearance as the perfect tonic ahead of Tuesday's crucial Champions League clash with FC Porto. . . . more . . .
Tommy guns down Blades (Mar 07, 2004)
Sunderland's FA Cup odyssey continued after hitman Tommy Smith fired his fourth goal of the competition to sink last season's semi-finalists Sheffield United. . . . more . . .
It's snow joke for Bologna and Lazio (Mar 07, 2004)
Snow has brought about the postponement of Sunday's Italian football league match between Bologna and Lazio. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid suffer Ronaldo hammer blow (Mar 07, 2004)
Real Madrid's triple title assault suffered a major jolt when it was confirmed that Brazilian superstar Ronaldo will be sidelined for two weeks after picking up a thigh injury in the 1-1 draw at Racing Santander. . . . more . . .
Makaay fires Real warning shot, Stuttgart give Dortmund the blues (Mar 07, 2004)
Germany's Champions League participants Bayern Munich and VfB Stuttgart warmed up for their European clashes in style with away victories at Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund respectively. . . . more . . .
Real make do with a point as Ronaldo hobbles off (Mar 06, 2004)
Real Madrid made do with a point in a 1-1 draw at Racing Santander to cement their title credentials but could be without Ronaldo for next week's Champions League tie as the Brazilian star limped off with a thigh injury. . . . more . . .
Paris Saint Germain lose ground on leaders (Mar 06, 2004)
Paris Saint Germain lost crucial ground in the chase for the French championship when they were held to a 1-1 draw by Sochaux. . . . more . . .
Injured Ronaldo hands Real Madrid Champions League headache (Mar 06, 2004)
Real Madrid made do with a point in a 1-1 draw at Racing Santander to cement their title credentials but could be without Ronaldo for next week's Champions League tie with Bayern Munich as the Brazilian star limped off with a thigh injury. . . . more . . .
Makaay warms up for Real, Stuttgart give Dortmund the blues (Mar 06, 2004)
Germany's Champions League participants Bayern Munich and VfB Stuttgart warmed up for their European clashes in style with away victories at Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund respectively. . . . more . . .
Under-fire Zico gets boost from supporters (Mar 06, 2004)
About 500 Japanese football fans staged a rally in support of Japan coach and legendary Brazilian Zico who has been accused by critics of failing to build on the team's 2002 World Cup display. . . . more . . .
Nedved seals Juve comeback (Mar 06, 2004)
A goal from European footballer of the year Pavel Nedved sealed a remarkable comeback by reigning Serie A champions Juventus from two goals down to a 3-2 victory at Brescia. . . . more . . .
Petit set to get the contract blues (Mar 06, 2004)
French World Cup winning midfielder Emmanuel Petit has admitted he will not be at bigspending Premiership title contenders Chelsea next season. . . . more . . .
Modena hold Parma (Mar 06, 2004)
A late goal by Matteo Ferrari lifted relegation-threatened Modena to a 2-2 draw at home in a tough Serie A derby against Parma. . . . more . . .
Saints send injury-plagued Delgado home to Ecuador (Mar 06, 2004)
Ecuadorean international striker Agustin Delgado is being given one last chance by Premiership outfit Southampton to prove his fitness by being sent on loan to Ecuadorean club Aucus for the rest of the season. . . . more . . .
Birmingham flying high (Mar 06, 2004)
Birmingham's unexpected drive for a place in Europe gathered momentum when a 2-0 win over Bolton lifted Steve Bruce's side into fifth place in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Ruud to the rescue as United finally slay Fulham jinx (Mar 06, 2004)
Ruud van Nistelrooy rode to the rescue as Manchester United finally managed to slay their Fulham jinx with a 2-1 win in their FA Cup quarter-final at Old Trafford to send them into the semi-finals for the first time since 1999. . . . more . . .
Arsenal a cut above (Mar 06, 2004)
Two goals each to Thierry Henry and Freddie Ljungberg ensured Arsenal remained on track for a third straight FA Cup title with a commanding 5-1 quarter-final victory over Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
Bayern's Sagnol doubtful for Real Madrid tie (Mar 06, 2004)
Bayern Munich's French international Willy Sagnol is a major doubt for Wednesday's Champions League tie with Real Madrid after breaking his forearm in Saturday's 3-1 win over Bayer Leverkusen. . . . more . . .
Three Leicester players charged over sex attack (Mar 05, 2004)
Three players from English Premiership club Leicester City were charged with sexual aggression and breaking and entering following a court appearance in this southern Spanish city after three women claimed they had been sexually assaulted. . . . more . . .
Fortune suffers new injury heartbreak (Mar 05, 2004)
Manchester United's injury crisis deepened when it emerged that Quinton Fortune is facing a lengthy lay-off and will almost certainly require surgery for a knee injury. . . . more . . .
Leicester players quizzed in Spain over sex attack (Mar 05, 2004)
Six players from Leicester City were told they must remain in custody overnight by an investigating magistrate in Cartagena, southern Spain, after three women claimed they had been sexually assaulted. . . . more . . .
Three Leicester players charged, others face new hearing over sex attack (Mar 05, 2004)
Three players from English Premiership club Leicester City were charged with sexual aggression and breaking and entering following a court appearance in this southern Spanish city after three women claimed they had been sexually assaulted, court sources said. . . . more . . .
Birmingham determined not to blow Euro chance (Mar 05, 2004)
Birmingham striker Clinton Morrison has vowed that Birmingham will not blow their chance of clinching a place in Europe next season. . . . more . . .
Davis happy to stay a Cottager (Mar 05, 2004)
Midfielder Sean Davis insists he is happy to stay at Fulham -- six months after attempting to to leave the club. . . . more . . .
Petit heading out the door at Chelsea (Mar 05, 2004)
Emmanuel Petit has acknowledged his days at Chelsea are coming to an end but the French World Cup and European Championship winner is hoping to find a berth with another London club. . . . more . . .
Kapo gets two-match suspension (Mar 05, 2004)
Auxerre striker Olivier Kapo will miss the first leg of the UEFA Cup fourth-round tie against PSV Eindhoven after being banned for two matches by UEFA's Control and Disciplinary Body, European soccer's governing body said. . . . more . . .
FIFA favour stopping Brazilian Ailton playing for Qatar (Mar 05, 2004)
FIFA are in favour of stopping Brazilian striker Ailton from playing for oil-rich Qatar and of taking measures to prevent such incidents happening again, an executive committee member of soccer's world governing body said. . . . more . . .
Monaco and Lyon turn up the heat in French league duel (Mar 05, 2004)
Monaco and Lyon warmed up for their respective European ties midweek with confidence-boosting French league wins which keeps the battle for the First Division title wide open. . . . more . . .
Leicester defend manager over sex attack (Mar 05, 2004)
Relegation-threatened Leicester City have cleared their manager Micky Adams of any blame in the sex attack scandal which has engulfed the English Premiership club in Spain. . . . more . . .
Real appeal Carlos two-match ban (Mar 05, 2004)
Real Madrid have appealed a two-match ban handed out to Brazil World Cup full-back Roberto Carlos for slapping Martin Demichelis in last week's 1-1 Champions League draw away to Bayern Munich. . . . more . . .
Leicester players in custody in Spain over sex attack (Mar 05, 2004)
Six players from English Premiership club Leicester City have spent the night in custody after three women claimed they had been sexually assaulted. . . . more . . .
United mull move to make Old Trafford 75,000-seat stadium (Mar 05, 2004)
Sir Alex Ferguson's Theatre of Dreams could be filled by audiences of up to 75,000 people under draft plans unveiled by Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Silvestre poised for United return (Mar 04, 2004)
Mikael Silvestre has said he will be fit following his ankle injury in time for Manchester United's Champions League match against Porto at Old Trafford next week. . . . more . . .
Ferguson turns to old friend to help stop the rot at United (Mar 04, 2004)
Sir Alex Ferguson has turned to old friend Walter Smith to help him stop the rot at Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Figo in no hurry to extend contract with Real Madrid (Mar 04, 2004)
Portuguese star Luis Figo has said he is in no hurry to extend his contract with Spanish champions Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
We've all had death threats says Owen (Mar 04, 2004)
Liverpool striker Michael Owen admitted that he, like team manager Gerard Houllier, had received death threats. . . . more . . .
O'Neill sweats over Sutton as injuries hit Celtic trophy drive (Mar 04, 2004)
Celtic's drive for a Scottish League and Cup double has been hit by a new injury scare after Chris Sutton limped out of the UEFA Cup clash with Czech side FK Teplice. . . . more . . .
Southampton name Sturrock as new boss (Mar 04, 2004)
Southampton have named former Scotland and Dundee United striker Paul Sturrock as their new boss. . . . more . . .
Bayern face heavy fine for Beckham snowballing (Mar 04, 2004)
Bayern Munich can expect a hefty fine from UEFA over their treatment of England captain David Beckham in the 1-1 Champions League draw with Real Madrid at the Olympic Stadium a week ago. . . . more . . .
Leicester players quizzed in Spain over sex attack (Mar 04, 2004)
Nine players from Leicester City were held for questioning in Cartagena after three women lodged complaints they had been sexually attacked. . . . more . . .
Brazilians top FIFA list of greats (Mar 04, 2004)
Five-times World Cup winners Brazil beat old rivals France and Italy again by having more players than any other country on a FIFA list of the greatest living players. . . . more . . .
One million Euro 2004 tickets already sold (Mar 04, 2004)
One hundred days before the start of the Euro 2004 football tournament and over one million of the 1.2 million tickets available have already been sold, organisers confirmed. . . . more . . .
Dutch teenager worries Chelsea stars (Mar 04, 2004)
Damien Duff and Joe Cole admit they were shocked to learn Chelsea had signed 20-year-old Dutch winger Arjen Robben as a rival for their places in the team. . . . more . . .
Celtic face Barcelona UEFA Cup Test (Mar 04, 2004)
Scottish champions Celtic were drawn against Barcelona in the outstanding match of the UEFA Cup fourth round. . . . more . . .
Robson relief as Shearer helps Magpies squeeze through (Mar 03, 2004)
Newcastle boss Sir Bobby Robson voiced his relief after watching his side make hard work of advancing to the last 16 of the UEFA Cup with a 3-1 win over Norwegian minnows Valerenga. . . . more . . .
Manchester United top global earnings (Mar 03, 2004)
English Premiership champions Manchester United have again topped the rich list of football clubs based on last season's income. . . . more . . .
Arveladze to go under the knife (Mar 03, 2004)
Rangers striker Shota Arveladze is to undergo knee surgery after Sunday's Scottish Cup quarter-final against Celtic at Parkhead, his agent revealed. . . . more . . .
Boro brought down to earth with a bump (Mar 03, 2004)
League Cup winners Middlesbrough were brought down to earth with a bump as Birmingham claimed a bruising 3-1 Premiership win at St Andrews. . . . more . . .
Liverpool make it less than liberating day for Bulgarians (Mar 03, 2004)
English giants Liverpool gave embattled manager Gerard Houllier reason to smile as they eased into the fourth round of the UEFA Cup after a 4-2 victory in their third round second leg match with Levski Sofia to win 6-2 overall. . . . more . . .
Argentine striker Cordone faces two-year ban for drugs (Mar 03, 2004)
Carlos Daniel Cordone has tested positive for drugs for the second time in his career, the Argentine Football Association revealed. . . . more . . .
Beckenbauer doubts Africa as suitable World Cup host (Mar 03, 2004)
It may not have been such a smart idea to agree to allow Africa to stage the World Cup for the first time in 2010, according to Franz Beckenbauer who says Europe cannot wait 24 years to hold the tournament. . . . more . . .
Klose's Bremen salary irks Ailton (Mar 03, 2004)
Werder Bremen's Brazilian forward Ailton has criticised the Bundesliga leaders for assembling such a lucrative package for German international Miroslav Klose, claiming he would have stayed at the the club for less money. . . . more . . .
Hoddle pulls out of running for Southampton job (Mar 03, 2004)
Glenn Hoddle has abandoned his bid to return to Southampton as the south coast club's new manager following last month's departure of Gordon Strachan. . . . more . . .
Brazilian Ailton set for Qatar debut (Mar 03, 2004)
Brazilian marksman Ailton has revealed he is poised to make his bow for Qatar at the end of March in the 2006 World Cup qualifying match with Jordan. . . . more . . .
Sturrock in line for Saints job (Mar 03, 2004)
Southampton look set to swap one Scot for another manager in the same mould after opening talks with Plymouth boss Paul Sturrock. . . . more . . .
Turkish side slice Parma to pieces as Frey gets sent off (Mar 03, 2004)
Unheralded Turkish side Genclerbirligi captured another famous scalp in the UEFA Cup on Wednesday as they defeated Italian side Parma 3-0 for a 4-0 aggregate total to progess to the fourth round of the competition. . . . more . . .
Bayern deny striking deal for Brazilian Dede (Mar 03, 2004)
German champions Bayern Munich have quashed reports that Borussia Dortmund's Brazilian left back Dede has already penned a contract to join the club. . . . more . . .
Determined Desailly wants Euro 2004 place (Mar 03, 2004)
France captain Marcel Desailly said he was determined to make the cut for this summer's Euro 2004 finals even if he is not picked for his country's friendly against Holland on March 31. . . . more . . .
Former Rangers boss appointed as Fergie assistant (Mar 03, 2004)
Former Rangers and Everton manager Walter Smith has been appointed as Sir Alex Ferguson's assistant at Manchester United until the end of the season, the club announced. . . . more . . .
Celtic edge through despite Teplice defeat (Mar 03, 2004)
Scottish giants Celtic edged through to the last 16 of the UEFA Cup after surviving a potential upset following a 1-0 defeat at Czech side Teplice. . . . more . . .
Hearts keen on Australian home match against Celtic (Mar 03, 2004)
Scottish Premier side Hearts want to play Celtic in a 'home' match in Australia next season. . . . more . . .
Cassano celebrates century in style to puts Roma through (Mar 03, 2004)
Antonio Cassano celebrated his 100th appearance for Italian giants S Rome by scoring the decisive goal to give them a 2-0 victory over Turkish outfit Gaziantepspor in their UEFA Cup third round second leg match to win the tie 2-1 on aggregate. . . . more . . .
Shearer helps Magpies squeeze through (Mar 03, 2004)
Alan Shearer made his point with the opening goal as Newcastle squeezed into the fourth round of the UEFA Cup with a 3-1 victory over battling Norwegian outfit Valerenga to record a 4-2 aggregate triumph. . . . more . . .
Unsettled Cole's Chelsea future in doubt (Mar 02, 2004)
England midfielder Joe Cole was reported to be ready to ask for transfer after failing to win a regular first-team spot at Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Portuguese PM appeals for fair-play following stadium violence (Mar 02, 2004)
The prime minister of Euro 2004 hosts Portugal has appealed for greater fair-play on the pitch after a referee was threatened by the president of a second division club during a weekend match. . . . more . . .
Ferguson fears Van breakdown (Mar 02, 2004)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson fears Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is close to breaking down. . . . more . . .
Bates resigns as Chelsea chairman: report. (Mar 02, 2004)
Ken Bates resigned as Chelsea chairman, the BBC reported. . . . more . . .
Cole set to quit Chelsea (Mar 02, 2004)
England midfielder Joe Cole was reported to be ready to ask for transfer after failing to win a regular first-team spot at Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Bates resigns as Chelsea chairman (Mar 02, 2004)
Ken Bates resigned as Chelsea chairman. . . . more . . .
Italy's deputy PM welcomes fraud investigation (Mar 02, 2004)
Italy's deputy Prime Minister Gianfranco Fini has welcomed the police investigation into suspected accounting irregularities at Italy's first and second division clubs. . . . more . . .
Inter Milan's Recoba and Stankovic banned for two matches (Mar 02, 2004)
The Italian Football League's disciplinary panel suspended Inter Milan pair Alvaro Recoba and Dejan Stankovic for two domestic matches. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo agrees new Real deal to 2008 (Mar 02, 2004)
Brazil World Cup star Ronaldo has extended his contract at Real Madrid two years to 2008, the Spanish champions announced. . . . more . . .
Hartson needs back operation to rescue career (Mar 02, 2004)
Celtic striker John Hartson will undergo back surgery at the weekend in a bid to save his career, the Scottish Premiership leaders confirmed. . . . more . . .
Giresse in talks with Georgia (Mar 02, 2004)
Georgia's football federation intend to make former French international midfielder Alain Giresse their new national head coach. . . . more . . .
Nesta back in training for Milan (Mar 02, 2004)
Italian league leaders AC Milan received a welcome boost when defender Alessandro Nesta returned to training after recovering from a left thigh strain. . . . more . . .
Ravanelli backs Perugia to survive relegation (Mar 02, 2004)
Perugia's experienced striker Fabrizio Ravanelli is backing his relegation-threatened side to retain their Serie A status. . . . more . . .
Liverpool boss calls for lady luck to smile on Owen (Mar 02, 2004)
Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier is convinced that with a little bit more luck Michael Owen will snap out of his barren patch. . . . more . . .
Chelsea grab Dutch winger Robben (Mar 02, 2004)
Chelsea have snatched 20-year-old Dutch left winger Arjen Robben from under the noses of English Premiership champions Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Birmingham caught in Catch-22 over Forssell (Mar 02, 2004)
Birmingham chairman David Gold is desperate to sign Mikael Forssell but he fears that every time the on-loan Chelsea striker scores they will be less likely to afford him. . . . more . . .
Liverpool confirm Houllier death threat letter (Mar 02, 2004)
Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier has received a death threat in the post, the English Premiership side confirmed. . . . more . . .
Second place can save Ranieri, says Gudjohnsen (Mar 01, 2004)
Eidur Gudjohnsen hopes that if Chelsea finish second in the Premiership this season it will save Claudio Ranieri's job. . . . more . . .
Vogts sacking not an issue says SFA chief (Mar 01, 2004)
Scottish Football Association president John McBeth has denied suggestions that Berti Vogts will be sacked later this week. . . . more . . .
Football bids farewell to Charles (Mar 01, 2004)
Football paid its final respects to John Charles when the funeral of the former Leeds, Wales and Juventus great, who died last month aged 72, took place at Leeds Parish Church. . . . more . . .
Robben performs United U-turn to sign for Chelsea (Mar 01, 2004)
Highly-rated Dutch international striker Arjen Robben snubbed English Premiership champions Manchester United and signed for cash-rich rivals Chelsea for a reported 15million pounds (22million dollars). . . . more . . .
Wenger warns Arsenal against complacency (Mar 01, 2004)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insisted his Premiership leaders would not become complacement in their quest to bring the title back to Highbury. . . . more . . .
Phillips fined by FA for Lehmann incident (Mar 01, 2004)
Southampton's former England international striker Kevin Phillips was fined 2,000 pounds (3,600 dollars) and warned as to his future conduct by the Football Association (FA) here for his December clash with Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann. . . . more . . .
Leeds and Liverpool in four-goal thriller (Mar 01, 2004)
Leeds United and Liverpool had to make do with a point apiece after an exciting 2-2 draw at Elland Road here. . . . more . . .
Coach Stambouli rules out Mali contract extension (Mar 01, 2004)
French coach Henri Stambouli said he had decided against accepting a contract extension to guide African Nations Cup semi-finalists Mali through the 2006 World Cup qualifiers. . . . more . . .
McClaren keeps his silver-plated promise (Mar 01, 2004)
Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren was flushed with the satisfaction of keeping his promise of landing the club's first major trophy in its 128-year history after his players held aloft the League Cup here. . . . more . . .
Fraud investigation could end Italy's European renaissance (Mar 01, 2004)
The police investigation into suspected accounting irregularities at Italy's first division clubs launched last week could bring an abrupt end to Serie A's recent European renaissance. . . . more . . .
Okocha still has Euro dream for Bolton (Mar 01, 2004)
Nigerian international playmaker Jay-Jay Okocha insisted he still had dreams of taking Bolton Wanderers into Europe this season despite their English League Cup final defeat by Middlesbrough. . . . more . . .
Robson haunted by LuaLua goal (Mar 01, 2004)
Bobby Robson admitted Lomana LuaLua was "the last player we wanted to score against us" after the Pompey striker, on loan from Newcastle, netted an 89th minute equaliser that gave the struggling hosts a precious Premiership point here at Fratton Park. . . . more . . .
Roberto Carlos suspended for Bayern Munich return leg (Mar 01, 2004)
Brazil defender Roberto Carlos will miss Real Madrid's Champions League return match against Bayern Munich next week after he was banned for two European games by UEFA. . . . more . . .
Houllier puts trust in Baros (Mar 01, 2004)
Underfire Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier backed Czech striker Milan Baros to turn around the Anfield club's season saying "the best is yet to come" from his side. . . . more . . .
Phil Neville refuses to concede title (Mar 01, 2004)
Manchester United defender Phil Neville refused to concede the club's Premiership title to leaders Arsenal even though the Gunners are nine points clear of their Old Trafford rivals. . . . more . . .
Title race still not over says O'Neill (Mar 01, 2004)
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is urging his players to banish any thoughts that the Scottish title race is sewn up despite his side opening up a 16-point lead over Rangers. . . . more . . .
