Archive soccer news from around the world
Owen keen for more action (Sep 30, 2004)
Michael Owen hinted at his frustration at being left on the bench so often since joining Real Madrid from Liverpool for 12 million euros in the summer. . . . more . . .
Shearer hat-trick takes Newcastle through (Sep 30, 2004)
Alan Shearer grabbed a hat-trick and Patrick Kluivert scored twice as Newcastle brushed past Arab-Israeli rookies Bnei Sakhnin 5-1 to book their place in the UEFA Cup group stage. . . . more . . .
Roman's victorious troops lined up for Champions League battle (Sep 30, 2004)
Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich emerged victorious not just once but twice as Jose Mourinho guided Chelsea to a 3-1 victory over the Portuguese coach's former club Champions League holders FC Porto. . . . more . . .
UEFA Cup defeat unthinkable for Rangers (Sep 30, 2004)
Rangers play host to Portuguese side Maritimo in the UEFA Cup and manager Alex McLeish knows failure to overturn the one goal deficit from the first leg is likely to signal the end of his Ibrox career. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann calls up Aston Villa star Hitzlsperger (Sep 30, 2004)
Jurgen Klinsmann has called Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger into the German squad for the first time ahead of the friendly match with Iran in Tehran on October 9. . . . more . . .
Quickfire Lazio ease through (Sep 30, 2004)
Serie A side Lazio booked their place in the inaugural group stages of the UEFA Cup after comfortably winning their first round, second leg tie at home to Metalurg Donetsk. . . . more . . .
Brawling Millwall fans in Hungary (Sep 30, 2004)
Two brawling Millwall fans were arrested ahead of the English club's UEFA Cup match with Ferencvaros. . . . more . . .
Let's not get physical says Newcastle boss Souness (Sep 30, 2004)
Newcastle boss Graeme Souness urged his side to keep their heads and play their own game at Israeli Cup winners Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin in the UEFA Cup first round second leg clash. . . . more . . .
Away day blues undermining Liverpool revival (Sep 30, 2004)
Xabi Alonso says Liverpool's Spanish revival under new coach Rafael Benitez can only get properly underway once they learn how to play away from Anfield. . . . more . . .
Wenger frustrated as Gunners European stagefright strikes again (Sep 30, 2004)
Arsene Wenger made his frustration clear after a hesitant display against Norwegian champions Rosenborg left Arsenal with everything still to play for in their Champions League group. . . . more . . .
Crowd trouble mars Millwall UEFA Cup tie (Sep 30, 2004)
A fan was stabbed and left fighting for his life after crowd trouble marred the UEFA Cup tie between Ferencvaros and Millwall here which spelled the end of FA Cup finalist Millwall's European dream. . . . more . . .
Chelsea United the key for Mourinho (Sep 30, 2004)
Jose Mourinho is amazed by the team spirit amongst his Chelsea stars and insists it is making them unbeatable. . . . more . . .
Greek hero Charisteas the man for the big occasion (Sep 30, 2004)
Greek international Angelos Charisteas seems to love playing football on the big stage, with his late strike for Werder Bremen securing a sensational 2-1 Champions League win over ten-man Valencia. . . . more . . .
Nigeria still looking for foreign coach (Sep 30, 2004)
Nigeria Football Association (NFA) have approved a new two-year deal for coach Christian Chukwu but are still hoping to sign a foreign coach. . . . more . . .
O'Neill remains defiant despite Milan setback (Sep 30, 2004)
Celtic coach Martin O'Neill believes his side can still qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League despite suffering their second successive defeat in Group F. . . . more . . .
Domenech sticks with Henry, Pires as Wiltord, Silvestre return to fold (Sep 30, 2004)
France coach Raymond Domenech gave a vote of confidence to Arsenal veterans Thierry Henry and Robert Pires by naming them for international duty in 2006 World Cup qualifers next month. . . . more . . .
Inamoto ends four-month injury lay-off (Sep 30, 2004)
Japan midfielder Junichi Inamoto made his first appearance since suffering a broken leg against England in June with a 45-minute run out as West Bromwich Albion reserves lost 4-1 to Liverpool in Wrexham. . . . more . . .
Rangers need penalties to see off Maritimo (Sep 30, 2004)
Rangers clinched a place in the lucrative group stages of the UEFA Cup with penalties deciding their first round match against CS Maritimo. . . . more . . .
Bayern set for Chinese trip (Sep 29, 2004)
German giants Bayern Munich have rescheduled their football trip to China which were cancelled last year because of the SARS virus, general manager Uli Hoeness said. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho on the spot for Barcelona (Sep 29, 2004)
Brazilian World Cup winner Ronaldinho marked his Champions League home debut for Barcelona by scoring a second-half penalty to give the Spanish giants a 3-0 victory over a gutsy Ukrainian outfit Shakhtar Donetsk in their Champions League Group F clash. . . . more . . .
AC Milan's late show denies brave Celtic (Sep 29, 2004)
AC Milan scored twice in the last two minutes to beat Celtic 3-1 in a dramatic Champions League clash which edged the Italians closer to the knockout stages. . . . more . . .
Lethargic Gunners firing blanks (Sep 29, 2004)
Arsenal's capacity for shooting themselves in the foot in Europe surfaced again as the English champions laboured to a 1-1 draw with Rosenborg. . . . more . . .
Del Bosque hangs on at Besiktas (Sep 29, 2004)
Spanish coach Vincente Del Bosque insisted he was staying at the helm of Turkish first division side Besiktas amid reports the club was seeking a replacement following their disastrous start to the league. . . . more . . .
Benitez loses patience as Liverpool surrender (Sep 29, 2004)
Rafael Benitez has finally lost patience with his players after Liverpool surrendered to Greek side Olympiakos in the Champions League in Piraeus. . . . more . . .
Wenger happy to steer clear of penguins (Sep 29, 2004)
Arsenal go into their Champions League clash with Norwegian champions Rosenborg looking to melt away the memories of their last visits to chilly climes. . . . more . . .
No friends re-united act for Mourinho (Sep 29, 2004)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho insists there will be no love lost when he comes face to face with Porto, the Champions League winners he quit. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho delivers perfect birthday present for his mum (Sep 29, 2004)
Brazilian World Cup winner Ronaldinho gave his mother the perfect birthday present when he scored a second-half penalty to give the Spanish giants a 3-0 victory over a gutsy Ukrainian outfit Shakhtar Donetsk in their Champions League Group F clash. . . . more . . .
Mourinho's old boys no match for Chelsea (Sep 29, 2004)
Jose Mourinho led Porto to Champions League glory but there was no love lost when his new side Chelsea crushed them 3-1 at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Giggs warns of Rooney burnout (Sep 29, 2004)
Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs warned against pressures which could lead to the premature burnout of the Premiership side's new teenage star Wayne Rooney. . . . more . . .
Charisteas strikes as Bremen take 10-man Valencia's scalp (Sep 29, 2004)
German champions Werder Bremen recorded their first Champions League victory for over a decade with a 2-1 Group G win over ten-man Valencia. . . . more . . .
AC Milan hardman Gattuso braced for Scottish scrap (Sep 29, 2004)
AC Milan hardman Gennaro Gattuso will be rolling up his sleeves and gritting his teeth for the mouth-watering Champions League clash against Celtic. . . . more . . .
Chelsea coach Mourinho faces his Champions League winners Porto (Sep 29, 2004)
Jose Mourinho's Chelsea host FC Porto, whom he led to the Champions League title last season, with the self-confident Portuguese handler saying there is no room for emotional links in football. . . . more . . .
From Russia with Love (Sep 29, 2004)
Goals from Brazilian Vagner Love and substitute Sergei Semak handed CSKA Moscow a 2-0 Champions League win over powerless Paris Saint Germain. . . . more . . .
Inexperienced Bremen face Valencia test (Sep 29, 2004)
German champions Werder Bremen face a stern examination of their credentials when seasoned European campaigners Valencia visit the Weserstadion for the Champions League Group G clash. . . . more . . .
Rooney, Roy and Raul are the toast of their teams (Sep 29, 2004)
Manchester United may have no money left after signing Wayne Rooney but it was well worth it if his debut was anything to go by as the teenage star hit a hat-trick to see his team to a 6-2 trouncing of Turkish side Fenerbahce in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Wonderkid Wayne walking on water (Sep 29, 2004)
Sir Alex Ferguson admits he has never seen a player make as impressive a debut as Wayne Rooney did on his hat-trick night for Manchester United in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Lethargic Gunners fail to tie up loose Strands (Sep 29, 2004)
Arsenal's capacity for shooting themselves in the foot in Europe surfaced again as the English champions laboured to a 1-1 draw with Rosenborg. . . . more . . .
Three-goal Inter thrive without Vieri (Sep 29, 2004)
Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini saw his controversial decision to drop superstar striker Christian Vieri pay dividends when his side eased past Anderlecht 3-1 in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Del Neri appointed Roma coach (Sep 29, 2004)
Luigi Del Neri has been appointed coach of AS Roma, the troubled Serie A club confirmed. . . . more . . .
Japan's Takahara proves Toppmoller's white knight (Sep 28, 2004)
Japanese international striker Naohiro Takahara was handed a rare start for German side SV Hamburg on Sunday and repaid the faith of manager Klaus Topmmoller with a sensational brace to down Hertha Berlin 2-1. . . . more . . .
Scottish giants hoping Romanov's heart is in the right place (Sep 28, 2004)
Lithuanian businessman Vladimir Romanov is expected to buy his first tranche of shares in ailing Scottish Premiership giants Hearts on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Rooney eyes Champions League dream (Sep 28, 2004)
England teenage star Wayne Rooney looks set to make his eagerly-awaited Manchester United debut in Champions League action against Fenerbahce though England teammates at Real Madrid David Beckham and Michael Owen are doubts for the Spanish giants' clash with Roma. . . . more . . .
Keane home in firework attack (Sep 28, 2004)
Manchester United captain Roy Keane's home was attacked by youths armed with fireworks three days after Keane appeared before magistrates accused of assaulting a 16-year-old boy. . . . more . . .
Dynamo retain 100 percent record as they down Bayer (Sep 28, 2004)
Ukrainian champions Dynamo Kiev beat German side Bayer Leverkusen 4-2 in a thrilling Champions' League Group B encounter to lift themselves to top of the group with a 100-percent record after two matches. . . . more . . .
Rovers land Djorkaeff (Sep 28, 2004)
France's 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 winning midfielder Youri Djorkaeff signed for Premiership outfit Blackburn Rovers. . . . more . . .
Injury worries pile up for Juventus (Sep 28, 2004)
Juventus coach Fabio Capello could be without three of his most influential players for the Group C Champions League match at home to Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv. . . . more . . .
United look to future with Rooney (Sep 28, 2004)
Wayne Rooney, the 18-year-old who broke Manchester United bank, was set to start repaying Sir Alex Ferguson's 27 million pound investment against Turkish side Fenerbahce in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Rangnick new Schalke boss (Sep 28, 2004)
Schalke 04 have made Ralf Rangnick their new coach to replace Jupp Heynckes who was sacked two weeks ago. . . . more . . .
Arena miffed at MLS games during World Cup qualifying (Sep 28, 2004)
United States football coach Bruce Arena is upset that Major League Soccer has scheduled games next month during a key World Cup qualifying period. . . . more . . .
Liverpool boss Benitez on alert for Brazilian dangermen (Sep 28, 2004)
Liverpool coach Rafael Benitez has picked out Brazil's Rivaldo and Giovanni as the key players to watch in the Champions League Group A match at Olympiakos. . . . more . . .
Beira-Mar's English coach resigns after four games (Sep 28, 2004)
English coach Mick Wadsworth, a former assistant to Bobby Robson at Newcastle and with England, has resigned as Beira Mar manager for personal reasons, the Portuguese first division club revealed. . . . more . . .
Former Real boss Del Bosque faces axe in Turkey (Sep 28, 2004)
Troubled Turkish first division side Besiktas have decided to part ways with Spanish coach Vicente Del Bosque and former Real Sociedad coach Raynald Denouix has been lined up to replace him, according to an Istanbul daily. . . . more . . .
Besiktas denies Del Bosque sacked -- for now (Sep 28, 2004)
Turkish side Besiktas denied a newspaper report that it had sacked embattled Spanish coach Vicente Del Bosque and would replace him with former Real Sociedad coach Raynald Denoueix. . . . more . . .
Bolton skipper Okocha fit for West Brom (Sep 28, 2004)
Nigeria skipper Austin Jay Jay Okocha has declared he will be fit for Bolton Wanderers' Premiership match at West Brom on Saturday after missing last weekend's 1-1 home draw with Birmingham with a groin strain. . . . more . . .
FIFA pursues anti-doping cases against French, Italian, Dutch federations (Sep 28, 2004)
World football's governing body FIFA said it will pursue disciplinary action against the French, Italian and Dutch football federations over their alleged failure to implement minimum doping sanctions. . . . more . . .
Greek tragedy for Liverpool (Sep 28, 2004)
Olympiakos pulled off a shock 1-0 victory over English Premiership giants Liverpool in their Champions League Ggroup A clash to hand them their first ever defeat at the hands of Greek opposition. . . . more . . .
Ajax look to dampen Oktoberfest party with Munich win (Sep 28, 2004)
European giants Bayern Munich and Ajax lock horns in a crucial Champions League Group C match at the Olympic Stadium. . . . more . . .
Kewell, Bresciano doubtful for Confederations Cup qualifier (Sep 28, 2004)
Australia stars Harry Kewell and Marco Bresciano were named in the squad for next month's Oceania Nations Cup football final despite both being in doubt through injury. . . . more . . .
Camoranesi gives lacklustre Juve the edge (Sep 28, 2004)
Juventus moved a step closer to the knockout stages of the Champions League after defeating Maccabi Tel Aviv 1-0. . . . more . . .
Crisis clubs Real Madrid and Roma look for Champions cheer (Sep 28, 2004)
Fans of Real Madrid and Roma have not had much to smile about in recent weeks but a victory in their Champions League Group B match would provide a welcome lift for one of them. . . . more . . .
Irrepressible Makaay nets treble as Bayern crush Ajax (Sep 28, 2004)
Dutch international Roy Makaay continues to prove his 18.75 million euro price-tag was a snip, netting a hat-trick as Bayern Munich cruised to a 4-0 Champions League Group C victory over Ajax. . . . more . . .
Rooney guns down Turks with hattrick on Man United debut (Sep 28, 2004)
Wayne Rooney opened his Manchester United career in spectacular fashion, scoring a hattrick as his new team thrashed Turkish champions Fenerbahce 6-2 in a Champions League Group D tie. . . . more . . .
Monaco maintain Deportivo's terrible away record (Sep 28, 2004)
Last season's Champions League finalists Monaco saw off Spanish side Deportivo La Coruna 2-0 in their Group A clash to leave their opponents with just one victory in their last 10 away matches in the tournament. . . . more . . .
Lyon find their Sylvain lining (Sep 28, 2004)
Revitalised former French international striker Sylvain Wiltord hit the winner in Lyon's 2-1 Champions League victory at Sparta Prague in a virtuoso display contrasting sharply with his fruitless time at Arsenal. . . . more . . .
Roma rattle Real before Madrid bounce back (Sep 28, 2004)
Real Madrid bounced back from a two goal deficit to beat Roma 4-2 in their Champions League group B match. . . . more . . .
Kewell back for Liverpool's Euro clash (Sep 27, 2004)
Harry Kewell has travelled with the Liverpool squad for Tuesday's Champions League clash against Olympiakos in Athens. . . . more . . .
Real hope with Zidane set to return against Roma (Sep 27, 2004)
Real Madrid coach Mariano Garcia Remon confirmed that French star Zinedine Zidane would return to the starting line-up in Tuesday's Champions League clash with AS Roma. . . . more . . .
Time for a new start, says Roma coach (Sep 27, 2004)
Rome was not built in a day, as the old saying goes, and it may take a little time to resolve the problems at the football club that has the name of the Italian capital. . . . more . . .
Dowie agrees to settle in Eagles nest (Sep 27, 2004)
English Premiership tailenders Crystal Palace received a boost when highly-rated manager Iain Dowie signed a new four-year contract. . . . more . . .
Man United profits slide, media revenues to decline (Sep 27, 2004)
Manchester United, the world's wealthiest football club, reported a near 30-percent fall in annual profits, hit by a weaker performance on the pitch, and warned that future results would be affected by a drop in media revenues. . . . more . . .
Moyes going to be merrier with new Everton war chest (Sep 27, 2004)
Everton's Premiership title challenge could be enhanced by a massive transfer treasure chest of almost 30 million pounds the club chairman Bill Kenwright told the BBC. . . . more . . .
Liverpool get go ahead for new ground (Sep 27, 2004)
English Premiership giants Liverpool got the green light from Britain's Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott to build a new 60,000-seater stadium. . . . more . . .
El Karkouri gives Rovers another headache (Sep 27, 2004)
A first goal for Charlton from Moroccan defender Tala El Karkouri saw them preserve their unbeaten Premiership home record as they beat Blackburn Rovers 1-0. . . . more . . .
Wenger's men ready for heat of battle (Sep 27, 2004)
Arsenal fear the defence of their Premiership crown is being threatened by intimidating tactics by opponents but manager Arsene Wenger believes his players will no longer over-react. . . . more . . .
I protected discon-Sol-ate Campbell admits Wenger (Sep 26, 2004)
England defender Sol Campbell was in such a fragile mental state after their Euro 2004 exit in the quarter-finals that it scared Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. . . . more . . .
Stuttgart crush Leverkusen, Takahara rescues Toppmoller (Sep 26, 2004)
VfB Stuttgart continued their unbeaten start to the season with a comfortable 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen at the Gottlieb-Daimler Stadium on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Roma begin search for Voller's replacement (Sep 26, 2004)
Roma have begun their search for a new coach following the shock resignation of Rudi Voller. . . . more . . .
Supersub Novo shoots Rangers into second spot (Sep 26, 2004)
Supersub Nacho Novo scored twice late on in a three-minute spell to hand Rangers a 2-0 win at Dundee to propel them into second spot in the Scottish Premier League table. . . . more . . .
Ferguson set to unleash Rooney on Turks (Sep 26, 2004)
England teenage star Wayne Rooney looks set to make his eagerly-awaited debut in Tuesday's Champions League match at home to Turkish side Fenerbahce, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko's double breathes life into 10-man Milan (Sep 26, 2004)
Two goals in four minutes from Ukranian striker Andriy Shevchenko gave AC Milan a 2-1 win away to Lazio and kick-started the Italian champions' title defence. . . . more . . .
You don't bring me flowers moans Mourinho (Sep 26, 2004)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho launched a broadside at the British media accusing them of disliking his side because of the millions spent on players by owner Roman Abramovich. . . . more . . .
Former players pay tribute to Clough (Sep 26, 2004)
Former Nottingham Forest and Derby County stars gathered to pay tribute to their former manager Brian Clough, who died of stomach cancer last Monday aged 69. . . . more . . .
Cahill keeps his shirt on as Everton down Pompey (Sep 26, 2004)
Australian midfielder Tim Cahill kept Everton within two points of leaders Arsenal as his goal saw them to a 1-0 victory over Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
No international rethink by Scholes (Sep 26, 2004)
Sven-Goran Eriksson's hopes that Paul Scholes might change his mind about retiring from international football were effectively dashed as the Manchester United midfielder insisted he would not reconsider. . . . more . . .
Another good job from Valencia's Italian imports (Sep 26, 2004)
Reigning Spanish champions Valencia maintained their unbeaten run this season with a convincing 2-0 win over Racing Santander. . . . more . . .
Troubled Del Bosque to know his fate with Besiktas on Monday (Sep 26, 2004)
Former Real Madrid coach Vicente Del Bosque, who has had a disastrous start this season with Istanbul's Besiktas, will be called to account Monday by the team's executive board, a club official said. . . . more . . .
Valencia and Barcelona stay unbeaten and neck-and-neck (Sep 26, 2004)
Valencia and Barcelona maintained their unbeaten records this season, and remain neck-and-neck at the top of the Spanish first division, after convincing wins. . . . more . . .
King crowns tribute to Clough (Sep 26, 2004)
A superb last minute goal by Nottingham Forest's Marlon King wrapped up a suitable ending on a day dedicated to remembering former manager Brian Clough, who died of stomach cancer last Monday aged 69. . . . more . . .
Supersub Martins rescues shaky Inter (Sep 26, 2004)
Struggling Serie A title hopefuls Inter Milan twice came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw at home to Parma. . . . more . . .
Robson still bemused by sacking (Sep 26, 2004)
Former Newcastle United manager Sir Bobby Robson has admitted that he is still "bewildered" by his sacking from the English Premiership side. . . . more . . .
Ten-man Monaco hold on to keep top spot in France (Sep 25, 2004)
French league leaders Monaco held on for a 0-0 draw against Lyon in their top-of-the-table clash at the Gerland stadium although they were down to 10 men for the final half hour. . . . more . . .
Nine-man Bologna pile misery on Roma (Sep 25, 2004)
Roma's start to the Serie A season went from bad to worse after they suffered a devastating 3-1 defeat away to Bologna. . . . more . . .
Voller quits after Roma debacle, Palermo stall Juve (Sep 25, 2004)
Rudi Voller quit as Roma coach after the club's 3-1 defeat away to Bologna, while leaders Juventus dropped their first points of the season in a 1-1 draw at home to Palermo. . . . more . . .
Stuttgart crush Leverkusen, Wolfsburg stay top (Sep 25, 2004)
VfB Stuttgart continued their unbeaten start to the season with a comfortable 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen at the Gottlieb-Daimler Stadium. . . . more . . .
Gunners stay clear as United revival gathers steam (Sep 25, 2004)
A rare goal from Ashley Cole fired Arsenal to a 1-0 win over Manchester City as the Gunners maintained their slender advantage over Chelsea at the top of the English Premiership. . . . more . . .
Izzet saves Bruce from more punishment (Sep 25, 2004)
Muzzy Izzet struck a second half equaliser to give Birmingham boss Steve Bruce, who was beaten up by two thugs in the early hours of the morning, something to smile about in a 1-1 draw at Bolton. . . . more . . .
Drogba keeps Chelsea on title track (Sep 25, 2004)
Didier Drogba's second league goal of the season finally broke Middlesbrough's resistance as Chelsea spared their fans a third consecutive goalless draw. . . . more . . .
Struggling Madrid suffer another setback (Sep 25, 2004)
Mighty Real Madrid slumped to their second league defeat of the season when they lost 2-1 to Athletic Bilbao, a team which started the day firmly in the relegation zone. . . . more . . .
Santini kicks up storm over referee (Sep 25, 2004)
Tottenham Hotspur manager Jacques Santini accused referee Peter Walton of entering the Manchester United dressing-room at half-time and "smiling with their players and smiling with their staff" during Spurs' 1-0 defeat at White Hart Lane. . . . more . . .
Blues manager Bruce attacked in street (Sep 25, 2004)
Birmingham City manager Steve Bruce has been attacked outside his home, the English Premiership club said. . . . more . . .
Unsworth aims to teach former club a lesson (Sep 25, 2004)
Former Everton stalwart David Unsworth is determined to show the Merseysiders they were wrong to let him leave when he lines up for Portsmouth against his old team at Fratton Park on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Celtic enjoy easy win before Champions League (Sep 25, 2004)
Celtic enjoyed a comfortable 3-0 win at home to Dunfermline in the Scottish Premier League to set them up perfectly for their Champions League match against AC Milan. . . . more . . .
Inamoto continues injury fightback (Sep 25, 2004)
Japan midfielder Junichi Inamoto trained for the first time with his new club West Bromwich Albion as he continues his recovery from a broken leg. . . . more . . .
Butt set for England recall (Sep 24, 2004)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson said that he is ready to recall Nicky Butt to replace injured Steven Gerrard in the World Cup qualifiers against Wales and Azerbaijan. . . . more . . .
Vieira's 10-year Arsenal pledge (Sep 24, 2004)
Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira, who almost quit the club to join Real Madrid in the summer, wants to lead out his team at the club's new 400-million pound stadium in 2006 to complete a decade in London. . . . more . . .
Rooney ready for Reds debut (Sep 24, 2004)
Manchester United said that Wayne Rooney will not make his debut against Tottenham, despite manager Sir Alex Ferguson declaring the 27 million pound striker fit to play. . . . more . . .
Nedved calls time on Czechs (Sep 24, 2004)
Juventus star Pavel Nedved has told the Czech Republic football federation he has retired at the age of 32 from international soccer after winning 83 caps. . . . more . . .
Man United warning for Portugal over Ronaldo (Sep 24, 2004)
Manchester United have once again warned Portugal against playing teenage winger Cristiano Ronaldo in World Cup 2006 qualifying matches because the player needs to recover fully from injury. . . . more . . .
Nedved retires from international game (Sep 24, 2004)
Juventus star Pavel Nedved has told the Czech Republic football federation he has retired at the age of 32 from international soccer after winning 83 caps. . . . more . . .
Forest plan Sunday Clough tribute (Sep 24, 2004)
Nottingham Forest plan to pay an emotional tribute to former coach Brian Clough when they face West Ham in The Championship on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Barcelona's Eto'o goes from villain to victor (Sep 24, 2004)
African Footballer of the Year Samuel Eto'o is a notoriously mercurial talent and he showed both facets of his playing skills in Barcelona's 4-1 win over Real Zaragoza. . . . more . . .
Dyer set to miss England game (Sep 24, 2004)
Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer looks set to miss England's World Cup qualifiers next month as his hamstring injury needs another month of rest. . . . more . . .
Moroccan star Naybet spurred by Tottenham glory days (Sep 24, 2004)
Tottenham's Moroccan defender Noureddine Naybet claims Manchester United's reign at the top of English football is over. . . . more . . .
Fulham bid to land Djorkaeff stalls (Sep 24, 2004)
Fulham's bid to sign veteran French international midfielder Youri Djorkaeff has stalled because the Premiership club and player have failed to agree contract details. . . . more . . .
Robinson strike downs struggling Leeds (Sep 24, 2004)
Sunderland clinched a fourth successive league victory in The Championship when Carl Robinson struck a second half winner to beat Leeds United 1-0 at Elland Road. . . . more . . .
French champions Lyon call for new stadium (Sep 24, 2004)
Reigning French league champions Lyon on Friday called for an upgrade of Gerland stadium or a completely new construction, possibly with the help of private funding, to accommodate their huge support The club claimed they could often fill a 100,000-capacity stadium which is more than twice the size of their current 41,000-capacity structure, listed as a historic monument. . . . more . . .
Rooney poised for Reds debut (Sep 24, 2004)
Teenage star Wayne Rooney is poised to make his Manchester United debut after manager Sir Alex Ferguson declared the 27 million pound striker was fit to play. . . . more . . .
Wenger pledges future to Gunners (Sep 24, 2004)
Arsene Wenger has confirmed that he intends to sign an extension to his contract at Arsenal, ending speculation that he could be lured away from Highbury to become the new Real Madrid coach. . . . more . . .
FIFA demands reduced schedule (Sep 24, 2004)
Football's world governing body FIFA insisted that they want to see a reduced match schedule to prevent the World Cup and European championships from fizzling out. . . . more . . .
Gers ease pressure on McLeish (Sep 23, 2004)
Rangers eased the pressure on under-fire manager Alex McLeish by emerging from a potentially tricky League Cup third round clash with a 2-0 win over Aberdeen. . . . more . . .
Serbia's Red Star falls from Europe's football heavens (Sep 23, 2004)
Thirteen years after Red Star Belgrade became European club champions and blazed a path for all to follow, the club has sunk to depths few of its die-hard fans would have thought possible. . . . more . . .
Man United skipper Keane in court on assault charge (Sep 23, 2004)
Manchester United captain Roy Keane denied assaulting a 16-year-old boy when he appeared before a magistrates court in Manchester. . . . more . . .
Man United target Chelsea keeper Cudicini (Sep 23, 2004)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson was reported to be set to make a bid for Chelsea goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini in the January transfer window. . . . more . . .
Giggs back as Wales hold out hope for Savage (Sep 23, 2004)
Ryan Giggs is back in the Wales squad for their World Cup qualifiers against England and Poland next month. . . . more . . .
Barcelona's Eto'o goes from villain to victor (Sep 23, 2004)
African Footballer of the Year Samuel Eto'o is a notoriously mercurial talent and he showed both facets of his playing skills in Barcelona's 4-1 win over Real Zaragoza. . . . more . . .
Eriksson gets vote of confidence from FA (Sep 23, 2004)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has been given a vote of confidence from the Football Association with the governing body dismissing suggestions they would be prepared to let the Swede leave for Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Injury setback puts Forssell season in doubt (Sep 23, 2004)
Birmingham manager Steve Bruce received an early blow to the season with the news that on-loan Chelsea striker Mikael Forssell could be out of action for the next six months. . . . more . . .
Wednesday look to Sturrock to recapture former glory (Sep 23, 2004)
Paul Sturrock has set promotion as his target after being appointed Sheffield Wednesday manager. . . . more . . .
Butt slapped with three-match Euro ban (Sep 23, 2004)
Newcastle midfielder Nicky Butt has been banned for three European matches following his sending off in the Magpies' UEFA Cup first round first leg clash with Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin. . . . more . . .
Liverpool hit by Nunez injury blow (Sep 23, 2004)
Liverpool's Premiership campaign suffered another major injury setback when it was revealed that Spanish midfielder Antonio Nunez faces another six weeks out of action. . . . more . . .
Bridges hopes to rebuild career at Sunderland (Sep 23, 2004)
Injury-plagued striker Michael Bridges returned to former club Sunderland in an effort to rebuild his career. . . . more . . .
Arsenal confident Wenger not tempted by Real (Sep 22, 2004)
English champions Arsenal believe Arsene Wenger will resist any approach by Real Madrid and sign an extension next month to his contract which runs out in 2005. . . . more . . .
Frei winner plunges Marseille into more gloom (Sep 22, 2004)
Swiss striker Alexander Frei returned to haunt Marseille on when he scored the winner in Rennes' 1-0 win which sent the French giants tumbling into midtable and their fans calling for the resignation of president Christophe Bouchet. . . . more . . .
Sad PSG slip into relegation zone (Sep 22, 2004)
French glamour club Paris St Germain slipped into the relegation zone after surrendering a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 at Lens and pile more pressure on coach Vahid Halilhodzic. . . . more . . .
Valencia go top after thrashing Deportivo (Sep 22, 2004)
Spanish champions Valencia showed that they are not going to give up their crown easily with a 5-1 thashing of fellow Champions League side Deportivo La Coruna, which sent them back to the top of the league. . . . more . . .
Forsell injury blow for City (Sep 22, 2004)
Birmingham City manager Steve Bruce said on-loan Chelsea striker Mikael Forssell would be out for four to six weeks with a knee injury. . . . more . . .
Rio can open new United golden age, says Keane (Sep 22, 2004)
Manchester United captain Roy Keane believes the return of Rio Ferdinand from his eight-month ban can lead to a new golden age at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Hughes honeymoon shattered as Everton enjoy lucky escape (Sep 22, 2004)
Mark Hughes's honeymoon as Blackburn manager came to an abrupt end when the Premiership side were dumped out of the League Cup by League One strugglers Bournemouth. . . . more . . .
Eriksson rules himself out of Real running (Sep 22, 2004)
England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has reiterated that he is not a contender to become the new Real Madrid coach. . . . more . . .
Rush backs Spanish-German axis to shore up Gerrard hole (Sep 22, 2004)
Liverpool legend Ian Rush believes Xabi Alonso and Dietmar Hamann can help the Premiership club overcome the loss of midfield force Steven Gerrard for two months. . . . more . . .
Valdez double helps Bremen shoot down Bayer (Sep 22, 2004)
Paraguayan international Nelson Haedo Valdez enhanced his burgeoning reputation with a quick-fire brace as Werder Bremen downed Bayer Leverkusen 3-2 to move into the last sixteen of the German Cup. . . . more . . .
Gerrard promises speedy comeback from broken foot (Sep 22, 2004)
Steven Gerrard has moved to allay Liverpool fans' fears that he could be out until Christmas after breaking a metatarsal bone in his left foot. . . . more . . .
Flawless Juve lead the way as Milan crash to surprise defeat (Sep 22, 2004)
Juventus maintained their 100 per cent record and held on to first place in Italy's Serie A with a merciless 3-0 victory away to Sampdoria. . . . more . . .
Becks and co get the grief as Real boo boys vent frustrations (Sep 22, 2004)
The freekick was majestic, but the performance was not and if Real Madrid thought their bumpy start to the season was over with the slender win over Osasuna the supporters' verdict rang in their ears via regular bursts of booing. . . . more . . .
Kezman confident he can end goal-scoring drought (Sep 22, 2004)
Mateja Kezman has promised Chelsea fans the goal-scoring drought that has blighted his Stamford Bridge career so far will soon end. . . . more . . .
UEFA pledge to tackle international burnout (Sep 22, 2004)
International and club coaches pledged to do more to protect top players from burnout on the eve of major tournaments. . . . more . . .
Big time charlies Leverkusen flatter to deceive (Sep 21, 2004)
Spanish giants Real Madrid and German powerhouse Bayern Munich can both testify to the fact that Bayer Leverkusen can play exhilarating football, but the 2002 Champions League finalists seem unable to pysche themselves up for the so-called lesser teams. . . . more . . .
City's magnificent seven eases pressure on Keegan (Sep 21, 2004)
Former England manager Kevin Keegan can breathe a little easier after his Manchester City side thrashed Barnsley 7-1 in the second round of the League Cup. . . . more . . .
Lyon get Essien-ce of life at the top (Sep 21, 2004)
Three-time champions Lyon went top of the French league after beating Toulouse 2-0. . . . more . . .
Gerrard hands England injury blow (Sep 21, 2004)
England will be without Steven Gerrard for two 2006 World Cup qualifiers next month after Liverpool confirmed the midfielder broke a metatarsal bone in his foot during the 2-1 Premiership defeat by Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Makaay rescues Bayern from cup humiliation (Sep 21, 2004)
Dutch international Roy Makaay continued his act of rescuing Bayern Munich, scoring in the final seconds to secure a 3-2 second round cup win over regional minnows VfL Osnabruck. . . . more . . .
UEFA come down hard on Roma for Champions League violence (Sep 21, 2004)
UEFA's disciplinary body hit Italian Serie A club Roma with stern punishment for the violent incident that forced last week's Champions League match against Dynamo Kiev to be abandoned. . . . more . . .
Eriksson denies Madrid link (Sep 21, 2004)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson denied any link with the Real Madrid coaching post after their coach Jose Antonio Camacho resigned after just six games in charge. . . . more . . .
Beckham gives Real a lift up to the top (Sep 21, 2004)
Underfire England captain David Beckham lifted some of the misery hanging over Spanish giants Real Madrid here as a spectacular freekick saw them to a 1-0 victory over Osasuna and to the top of the table. . . . more . . .
Arsenal's Campbell on target for first-team return (Sep 21, 2004)
England defender Sol Campbell is on target to return to Arsenal's first-team line-up after finishing a full reserve match unscathed. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand set for Liverpool comeback (Sep 20, 2004)
Sir Alex Ferguson has all but confirmed he will recall Rio Ferdinand for Manchester United's Premiership clash with Liverpool at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Real coach Camacho quits (Sep 20, 2004)
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said he had accepted Jose Antonio Camacho's resignation as coach and appointed his deputy Mariano Garcia Remon in a caretaker role. . . . more . . .
Dortmund considering loan to buy back Westfalen stadium (Sep 20, 2004)
Cash-troubled Borussia Dortmund are considering a 120 million euro loan from English-American investment bank Schechter and Co. . . . more . . .
German international Kuranyi out until October (Sep 20, 2004)
VfB Stuttgart's German international striker Kevin Kuranyi's ankle injury is worse than first feared and he is now set to sit on the sidelines until the end of October. . . . more . . .
Legendary manager Brian Clough dies (Sep 20, 2004)
Legendary manager Brian Clough, who led Nottingham Forest to two European Cup titles, has died aged 69, Sky Sports reported. . . . more . . .
Football legend Clough dies of stomach cancer (Sep 20, 2004)
Legendary manager Brian Clough, who led unfashionable Nottingham Forest to two European Cup titles, has died aged 69. . . . more . . .
Meringues job turns sour for Camacho (Sep 20, 2004)
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said he had accepted Jose Antonio Camacho's resignation as coach and appointed his deputy Mariano Garcia Remon in a caretaker role. . . . more . . .
Maradona leaves for drug treatment in Cuba (Sep 20, 2004)
Argentinian football legend Diego Maradona left for Cuba to undergo treatment for his addiction to cocaine. . . . more . . .
Manchester City no place for Allardyce storms Bolton chairman (Sep 20, 2004)
Manchester United might be appropriate for Bolton manager Sam Allardyce's talents but not Manchester City claimed his club chairman Phil Gartside. . . . more . . .
FA bring disciplinary charges after Fulham fracas (Sep 20, 2004)
Fulham striker Andy Cole, manager Chris Coleman and West Bromwich Albion's Neil Clement had disciplinary charges brought against them by the Football Association(FA). . . . more . . .
Ferdinand starts against Liverpool (Sep 20, 2004)
England central defender Rio Ferdinand returned to the Manchester United starting line-up against Premiership rivals Liverpool after serving his eight month ban for missing a drugs test. . . . more . . .
No revolutions as Remon gets vote for Real hotseat (Sep 20, 2004)
Promising that there would be "no revolutions" and warning echoing his predecessor's forecast that coaching Real Madrid was a "tough but beautiful task," unheralded Mariano Garcia Remon stepped out of the shadows to replace Jose Antonio Camacho at the Bernabeu. . . . more . . .
Silvestre double gives Rio winning return (Sep 20, 2004)
A rare double from French defender Mikael Silvestre handed Manchester United team-mate Rio Ferdinand a victorious Premiership return to the team in a 2-1 victory over Liverpool here. . . . more . . .
Santini's men earn their Spurs after drawing with Chelsea (Sep 19, 2004)
Chelsea failed to make any ground on Premiership leaders Arsenal after they were held 0-0 by Spurs at Stamford Bridge here. . . . more . . .
Wanchope on target as Malaga get off the mark in Spain (Sep 19, 2004)
Former Manchester City favourite Paulo Wanchope struck at the death to secure Malaga their first win bonus of the new Spanish league campaign to complete a 2-1 win at Real Mallorca. . . . more . . .
Capital jinx continues for Stuttgart (Sep 19, 2004)
VfB Stuttgart missed the chance to replace VfL Wolfsburg at the Bundesliga summit following a 0-0 draw with ten-man Hertha Berlin. . . . more . . .
Fergie gives Sven green light to pick Rooney (Sep 19, 2004)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has urged England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson to pick Wayne Rooney for next month's World Cup qualifiers against Wales and Azerbaijan. . . . more . . .
Bent sends Everton into third place (Sep 19, 2004)
Marcus Bent handed Everton a fourth win in five Premiership games as an inspired performance by Australian keeper Mark Schwarzer failed to save Middlesbrough from losing 1-0 at Goodison Park. . . . more . . .
Juventus set the early pace in Italy (Sep 19, 2004)
David Trezeguet scored twice as Juventus defeated newly-promoted Atalanta 2-0 to set the early pace in Italy's Serie A. . . . more . . .
Wenger waiting on Sol as defensive blunders end perfect record (Sep 19, 2004)
Arsene Wenger will be hoping Sol Campbell comes safely through his first match in three months on Monday after poor defending cost Arsenal the chance to extend their winning start to the season. . . . more . . .
Jansen relieved to be given chance (Sep 19, 2004)
Matt Jansen has admitted he feared his Blackburn Rovers career was over after being frozen out by previous manager Graeme Souness. . . . more . . .
Real told to dig for pride after a fall (Sep 19, 2004)
Real Madrid's loss at Espanyol brought a numbing end to a miserable week whose only positive outcome has been the realisation that some soul-searching and a collective look in the mirror are overdue. . . . more . . .
Newcastle give Souness flying Premiership start (Sep 19, 2004)
Newcastle United gave new manager Graeme Souness a winning Premiership start with a 2-1 win at Southampton. . . . more . . .
Keegan still feeling the pressure despite Anelka stress relief (Sep 19, 2004)
Under-fire Kevin Keegan was a relieved man after watching his Manchester City side beat Crystal Palace, but admitted the 2-1 victory at Selhurst Park could merely be a stay of execution. . . . more . . .
Beckham axed as defeat sends Real into crisis (Sep 19, 2004)
David Beckham was dropped by Real Madrid but the Spanish giants still saw their season spiral into crisis as Espanyol handed them a 1-0 defeat just three days after they were destroyed by Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Swiss coach Andrey appointed to Esperance Tunis (Sep 19, 2004)
Esperance Tunis have appointed Claude Andrey of Swtizerland as their new coach on a year-long deal. . . . more . . .
Don't blame boring Bayern on me says Hitzfeld (Sep 19, 2004)
Former Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld claims he is not to blame for Bayern's lacklustre football this season. . . . more . . .
Luxury Carr helps Newcastle end Saints hoodoo (Sep 19, 2004)
Newcastle recorded their first league win at Southampton since February 1972 as a Stephen Carr second half wonder-strike proved the winner in the 2-1 win at St Mary's Stadium. . . . more . . .
Real's Camacho offers to resign: report (Sep 19, 2004)
Real Madrid's under-fire coach Jose Antonio Camacho has offered to resign after the club's poor start to the campaign. . . . more . . .
Adebayor shoots Monaco to top spot in France (Sep 19, 2004)
Togo's Emmanuel Adebayor shot Monaco to the top of the French league table with the winner in a 1-0 victory over Paris Saint Germain who thought their season could not get any worse. . . . more . . .
Rangers cut Celtic's lead with narrow victory (Sep 19, 2004)
Rangers cut Celtic's lead at the top of the Scottish Premier League with a narrow 1-0 home win against Inverness Caledonian Thistle. . . . more . . .
Barca and Atletico share the points as Camacho offers to quit Real (Sep 19, 2004)
An action-packed weekend of football in Spain's La Liga culminated in the biggest news coming off the pitch as Real Madrid's under-fire coach Jose Antonio Camacho offered to resign. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand will be strengthened by ban says Taylor (Sep 19, 2004)
Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) chief executive Gordon Taylor believes that Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand will come back stronger after his eight months on the sidelines. . . . more . . .
Kluivert gives Souness stuttering start against Arab rookies (Sep 18, 2004)
Patrick Kluivert struck twice as Newcastle United got Graeme Souness's reign at St James's Park off to a stuttering start with a 2-0 win over Israeli Arab side Bnei Sakhnin in the UEFA Cup first round, first leg. . . . more . . .
Keeper Penneteau shines as Bastia join Lyon at the top (Sep 18, 2004)
Bastia's 0-0 draw at Lyon, thanks to great defensive work especially by keeper Nicolas Penneteau, shot them to the top of the French league table with their opponents. . . . more . . .
Beckham axed as defeat sends Real into crisis (Sep 18, 2004)
David Beckham was dropped by Real Madrid but the Spanish giants still saw their season spiral into crisis as Espanyol handed them a 1-0 defeat just three days after they were destroyed by Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Bojinov double inspires Lecce (Sep 18, 2004)
Teenage striker Valeri Bojinov scored twice as Lecce fought back from a goal down to secure an emphatic 4-1 win at home to Brescia in Serie A. . . . more . . .
Mourinho plots downfall of high-flying Spurs (Sep 18, 2004)
Jose Mourinho gets his first taste of a London derby on Sunday and Chelsea's new boss has his sights set firmly on stopping Tottenham's unexpectedly strong start to the season in its tracks. . . . more . . .
Greek footballer Kaklamanos tests positive for cocaine (Sep 18, 2004)
Standard Liege's Greek striker Alexandros Kaklamanos has tested positive for cocaine, club sporting director Pierre Francois confirmed. . . . more . . .
I'll deliver title sooner rather than later says Mourinho (Sep 18, 2004)
Jose Mourinho vowed that he would deliver the Premiership title to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich long before his long-term contract is up. . . . more . . .
Thailand appoints former German international as head coach (Sep 18, 2004)
Former German international Siegfried Held has been appointed as Thailand's new football head coach after a disastrous start to their World Cup qualifying campaign. . . . more . . .
Keane admits: I was abysmal (Sep 18, 2004)
Manchester United skipper Roy Keane has described his performance in the 2-2 Champions League draw with Lyon in midweek as 'abysmal'. . . . more . . .
Wenger shuffles pack to retain winning hand (Sep 18, 2004)
Self-doubt has been in short supply around Highbury this season but Bolton boss Sam Allardyce is convinced his high-flying team are capable of unearthing just enough to stop Arsenal's record-breaking unbeaten Premiership run. . . . more . . .
I was abysmal: Keane (Sep 18, 2004)
Manchester United skipper Roy Keane has described his performance in the 2-2 Champions League draw with Lyon in midweek as 'abysmal'. . . . more . . .
Two arrested over Beckham security computer theft (Sep 18, 2004)
Two men have been arrested over the theft of a desktop computer containing security details about England captain David Beckham and his family. . . . more . . .
Inter's title quest off to slow start (Sep 18, 2004)
Serie A title hopefuls Inter Milan were held for the second consecutive week, drawing 1-1 at home to newly-promoted Palermo. . . . more . . .
Canaries back in the drop zone (Sep 18, 2004)
Norwich slipped back into the relegation zone after failing to gain their first victory of the season against visitors Aston Villa at Carrow Road. . . . more . . .
City ease pressure on Keegan; Bolton peg back Gunners (Sep 18, 2004)
High-flying Bolton ended Arsenal's perfect start to their Premiership title defence by twice coming from behind to earn a 2-2 draw at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Extra shut-eye for Sam as Bolton survive Gunners trial (Sep 18, 2004)
Sleepless nights are rapidly becoming a thing of the past for Sam Allardyce, the Bolton manager revealed after watching his high-flying side end Arsenal's perfect start to the season. . . . more . . .
Defoe hoping to be made of the Wright stuff (Sep 18, 2004)
Spurs hot shot Jermain Defoe will lead the line against Chelsea in Sunday's Premiership clash but if it hadn't been for his boyhood idol Ian Wright the England international might never have made the grade. . . . more . . .
German international Kuranyi out for a month (Sep 18, 2004)
VfB Stuttgart's German international striker Kevin Kuranyi will be sidelined for at least a month after injuring an ankle in Thursday's UEFA Cup 3-1 win over Hungarian outfit Ujpest Budapest. . . . more . . .
Makaay caps sensational Bayern comeback (Sep 18, 2004)
Bayern Munich scored two goals in the final two minutes to snatch a sensational 2-2 draw with arch rivals Borussia Dortmund at the Westfalen Stadium. . . . more . . .
Inspired Bruce yorks Charlton's victory hopes (Sep 18, 2004)
Steve Bruce's bold decision to sacrifice defender Kenny Cunningham for Dwight Yorke when his side Birmingham had been reduced to 10 men paid off as they came back to force a 1-1 draw with Charlton. . . . more . . .
Wenger admits Ferdinand will revive United challenge (Sep 18, 2004)
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has admitted that Rio Ferdinand's return to the fold will be a major shot in the arm for rivals Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Dons keep flying high (Sep 18, 2004)
Aberdeen's renaissance under new boss Jimmy Calderwood continued with a 1-0 win over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park. . . . more . . .
Kanu to the rescue as Fulham see double red (Sep 18, 2004)
Nigerian playmaker Kanu rounded off an explosive week for West Brom by rescuing a point for the Premiership newcomers against Fulham in a match that featured three red cards. . . . more . . .
Forgotten man Jansen gives Hughes winning start (Sep 18, 2004)
Mark Hughes's first significant act as the new Blackburn Rovers manager drew instant reward when Matt Jansen stepped off the substitutes bench to score the winner against a disappointing Portsmouth side. . . . more . . .
Pedersen ends Arsenal's perfect start (Sep 18, 2004)
Henrik Pedersen ended Arsenal's perfect start to the season with an 85th minute equaliser at Highbury that gave Bolton a well-deserved 2-2 draw. . . . more . . .
Anelka double eases pressure on beleaguered Keegan (Sep 18, 2004)
Nicolas Anelka eased the pressure on under-fire Manchester City manager Kevin Keegan by firing his team to a 2-1 win at bottom-side Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park Park. . . . more . . .
Arsenal look to future with Fabregas (Sep 17, 2004)
Francesc Fabregas, the youngest player and youngest scorer in Arsenal's history, has signed a long-term contract with the English champions. . . . more . . .
Uruguay soccer coach apologises for gay outburst (Sep 17, 2004)
Uruguay football coach Jorge Fossati apologized after coming under fire for stating that he would never call up a homosexual player to the national side. . . . more . . .
Setback for Souness as Dyer ruled out for weeks (Sep 17, 2004)
Graeme Souness suffered his first serious setback as Newcastle boss when Kieron Dyer was ruled out of action for several weeks with a recurrence of the hamstring problems that have dogged his career. . . . more . . .
Kluivert gives Souness stuttering start against Arab rookies (Sep 17, 2004)
Patrick Kluivert struck twice as Newcastle United got Graeme Souness's reign at St James's Park off to a stuttering start with a 2-0 win over Israeli Arab side Bnei Sakhnin in the UEFA Cup first round, first leg. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand to repay Ferguson debt of honour (Sep 17, 2004)
Rio Ferdinand plans to repay a debt of honour to Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson for standing by him when he returns from his eight month ban for missing a drugs test against Liverpool on Monday. . . . more . . .
Defeat piles pressure onto Gers boss McLeish (Sep 17, 2004)
Rangers' problem-plagued season took another turn for the worse when they slumped to a 1-0 defeat against Maritimo in the UEFA Cup, first round, first leg clash. . . . more . . .
McLeish admits Rangers job is on the line (Sep 17, 2004)
Alex McLeish has admitted his position as Rangers manager is on the line after his misfiring side slumped to a 1-0 defeat by Portuguese minnows Martimo in the first leg of a must-win UEFA Cup first round tie. . . . more . . .
Ferencvaros scrape their way out of Lions' Den (Sep 17, 2004)
Peter Lipscei saved Hungarian champions Ferencvaros from embarrassment in the UEFA Cup with a 1-1 draw at unfancied English side Millwall at The Den. . . . more . . .
City slackers rally behind Keegan (Sep 17, 2004)
Manchester City's players have rallied behind under-pressure manager Kevin Keegan ahead of what is being billed as a make-or-break trip to Premiership strugglers Crystal Palace. . . . more . . .
Campbell close to comeback (Sep 17, 2004)
Sol Campbell will play his first game since Euro 2004 when he turns out for Arsenal's reserves on Monday and could be back in first-team action for next weekend's visit to Manchester City. . . . more . . .
Ferguson looking to Ferdinand to steady shaky United ship (Sep 17, 2004)
Alex Ferguson is hoping the return of Rio Ferdinand will usher in a period of defensive stability for Manchester United as the club struggles to get its season back on track. . . . more . . .
Rome attack highlights Italian soccer madness (Sep 16, 2004)
Italian football was again in the dock with AS Roma facing heavy punishment from the sport's European governing body UEFA after a Swedish referee was hit by an object thrown from the crowd. . . . more . . .
Bayern's victory overshadowed by 'boring' display (Sep 16, 2004)
Bayern Munich got off to a great start to their 2004/05 Champions League campaign with a 1-0 win over Maccabi Tel-Aviv in Israel, but the manner of the performance left the critics with a lot of material to work with. . . . more . . .
Roma's night of shame, revenge for Bayer and Capello (Sep 16, 2004)
AS Roma could face heavy punishment from UEFA after their Champions League clash with Dynamo Kiev had to be abandoned when referee Anders Frisk was hit by a missile at half-time. . . . more . . .
Leeds snap up Gregan to bolster promotion battle (Sep 16, 2004)
Leeds United bolstered their side as they try to bounce straight back to the English Premiership by signing West Brom midfielder Sean Gregan for a million pounds. . . . more . . .
Boumsong staying with Rangers (Sep 16, 2004)
French defender Jean-Alain Boumsong insists he will stay at Rangers whatever happens to manager Alex McLeish who is under pressure after a poor start to the Scottish Premiership. . . . more . . .
Madrid stomach biggest European defeat for four years (Sep 16, 2004)
Nine-time European champions Real Madrid started the 2004/05 season as favourites to win the Champions League but a 3-0 drubbing by Bayer Leverkusen could see their odds lengthened. . . . more . . .
Cash-strapped Dortmund confirm financial windfall (Sep 16, 2004)
Borussia Dortmund's acute financial problems are set to be eased with the club confirming a 25 million euro cash injection from shares. . . . more . . .
Ferencvaros escape Lions' Den intact (Sep 16, 2004)
Peter Lipscei rescued Hungarian side Ferencvaros from embarrassment in the UEFA Cup with a 1-1 draw at unfancied English side Millwall at The Den. . . . more . . .
Saints deny Hoddle report (Sep 16, 2004)
Southampton dismissed reports that former boss Glenn Hoddle is set to return to the club. . . . more . . .
Ferguson set to swing the axe after close shave in Lyon (Sep 16, 2004)
Sir Alex Ferguson is set to take the axe to his under-performing side after a shambolic start to his tenth Champions League campaign as Manchester United manager. . . . more . . .
Defeat piles pressure onto Gers boss McLeish (Sep 16, 2004)
Rangers' problem-plagued season took another turn for the worse when they slumped to a 1-0 defeat against Maritimo in the UEFA Cup, first round, first leg clash. . . . more . . .
Kluivert gives Souness stuttering start against Arab rookies (Sep 16, 2004)
Patrick Kluivert struck twice as Newcastle United got Graeme Souness's reign at St James's Park off to a stuttering start with a 2-0 win over Israeli Arab side Bnei Sakhnin in the UEFA Cup first round, first leg. . . . more . . .
Shoulder injury blow for Real's Zidane (Sep 16, 2004)
Real Madrid said their French play-maker Zinedine Zidane will be out for at least three weeks after dislocating his right shoulder in their 3-0 Champions League defeat to Bayer Leverkusen in Germany. . . . more . . .
Pekerman named as new Argentina coach (Sep 16, 2004)
Jose Pekerman is to be the new coach of Argentina, the country's football association (AFA) president Julio Grondona announced. . . . more . . .
No slips ups allowed says Southgate (Sep 16, 2004)
Captain Gareth Southgate warned Middlesbrough against complacency in their first match in European competition. . . . more . . .
Gerrard happy with Liverpool return (Sep 16, 2004)
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard admitted that his side made the perfect return to the Champions League as goals from Djibril Cisse and Milan Baros secured a 2-0 victory against Monaco in Group A at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Blackburn too good an opportunity to miss for Hughes (Sep 16, 2004)
New Blackburn manager Mark Hughes said Thursday he could not afford to miss the opportunity of taking over at the English Premiership club. . . . more . . .
World Cup qualifiers smooth exit for Hughes (Sep 16, 2004)
Newly-appointed Blackburn manager Mark Hughes only signed to take over at the English Premiership side after negotiating to remain in charge of Wales for their World Cup qualifiers against England and Poland next month. . . . more . . .
Law pays tribute to record-breaking Ruud (Sep 16, 2004)
Manchester United legend Denis Law led the tributes to Ruud van Nistelrooy after the Dutchman broke his club record for goals in European competition. . . . more . . .
Liverpool cruise to victory against Monaco (Sep 16, 2004)
Djibril Cisse and Milan Baros handed Liverpool a winning return to the Champions League with a goal apiece as the four-time European Cup winners overcame inspired goalkeeping by Flavio Roma to beat Monaco 2-0 at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Old 'Sparky' gets permission to talk to Rovers (Sep 15, 2004)
Mark Hughes moved a step closer to becoming coach of Premiership strugglers Blackburn when the Football Association of Wales (FAW) gave him permission to talk to his former club. . . . more . . .
Ferguson hoping to avoid indigestion in France's culinary capital (Sep 15, 2004)
Lyon's preparations to face Manchester United this week have included pulling out all the stops to secure a table for Alex Ferguson at the city's most celebrated restaurant. . . . more . . .
Ruud to the rescue for United (Sep 15, 2004)
Ruud van Nistelrooy rode to Manchester United's rescue and into the club's record books in a Champions League thriller here. . . . more . . .
Makaay ends Bayern's three-year wait (Sep 15, 2004)
Dutch international striker Roy Makaay scored the only goal as Bayern Munich beat Maccabi Tel Aviv 1-0 in their opening Champions League Group C clash as the German giants won their first away match in the competition for three years. . . . more . . .
Hughes named as new Blackburn boss (Sep 15, 2004)
Wales manager Mark Hughes has been named as the new boss of English Premiership side Blackburn Rovers with immediate effect, the club announced. . . . more . . .
Rivaldo returns as Olympiakos hold Deportivo (Sep 15, 2004)
Olympiakos newcomer Rivaldo failed to achieve a dream win at the expense of his former club Deportivo La Coruna on his first outing with the Greek side with both sides having to settle for a goalless draw in their Champions League Group A match here. . . . more . . .
Liverpool cruise to victory against Monaco (Sep 15, 2004)
Djibril Cisse and Milan Baros handed Liverpool a winning return to the Champions League with a goal apiece as the four-time European Cup winners overcame inspired goalkeeping by Flavio Roma to beat AS Monaco 2-0 at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Roma-Dynamo match abandoned after referee hit by missile (Sep 15, 2004)
The Group B Champions League match between Roma and Dynamo Kiev was abandoned here after Swedish referee Anders Frisk was injured by a missile thrown from the crowd. . . . more . . .
New dates set for Kenya World Cup qualifiers (Sep 15, 2004)
New dates have been announced for three World Cup qualifiers involving Kenya that were postponed in mid-year when the East African country was barred from international football. . . . more . . .
Drogba double gives PSG the blues (Sep 15, 2004)
A fine double by Didier Drogba handed Chelsea a convincing 3-0 victory over French side Paris Saint Germain in their opening Champions League Group H encounter here. . . . more . . .
Valencia herald Champions League return with victory (Sep 15, 2004)
Valencia, returning after a two-year absence from Europe's premier club competition, beat Anderlecht 2-0 in their Mestalla stadium to herald their comeback. . . . more . . .
Leverkusen look for Glasgow revenge against Madrid (Sep 15, 2004)
Playing against the mighty Real Madrid is always special but it takes on extra significance for Bayer Leverkusen when the German side look for Champions League revenge at the BayArena. . . . more . . .
History favours Roma as Dynamo look to end Italian misery (Sep 15, 2004)
If history is anything to go by, AS Roma should be relishing the opening Group B Champions League clash at home to Dynamo Kiev. . . . more . . .
Arsenal glad to get past PSV (Sep 15, 2004)
Arsenal needed an own goal to brush aside PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League Group E opener at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Ibrahimovic may come back to haunt Ajax as Capello seeks belated revenge (Sep 15, 2004)
Ajax's sale of Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic may cost them dear in their Champions League clash if current form is anything to go by. . . . more . . .
Confident Liverpool begin European campaign (Sep 15, 2004)
Liverpool have reason to be confident as they go into their first Champions League group game against last season's finalists Monaco at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Eindhoven matter gets Gunners over trauma (Sep 15, 2004)
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger was relieved to have finally exorcised the ghosts of last season's awful start to the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Blackburn line up Hughes (Sep 15, 2004)
Blackburn have made an approach for Wales manager Mark Hughes and a Football Association of Wales official said they might ask former England manager Sir Bobby Robson to take over in a part-time capacity. . . . more . . .
Nedved gives Capello measure of revenge over Ajax (Sep 15, 2004)
A superb goal by the Czech Republic's European footballer of the year Pavel Nedved gave Juventus a 1-0 victory over Dutch side Ajax in their Champions League Group C match. . . . more . . .
Sweet revenge for Bayer as Real suffer three-goal rout (Sep 15, 2004)
Real Madrid's hopes of winning the Champions League crown for a fourth time suffered a major blow as Bayer Leverkusen brutally exposed a weak rearguard in a 3-0 win. . . . more . . .
Arab-Israeli team seeking to break through boundaries (Sep 15, 2004)
In the violent and volatile world of Israeli-Palestinian relations, a football club Bnei Sakhnin has become a beacon of some hope. . . . more . . .
Mourinho, Ranieri and Larsson make winning starts for new clubs (Sep 15, 2004)
Jose Mourinho started out his latest Champions League campaign as he finished the last one - a winner - as his new club Chelsea thrashed French strugglers Paris Saint Germain 3-0 in their opening clash of the tournament. . . . more . . .
Jetsetter Klinsmann defends US trips (Sep 15, 2004)
German national coach Jurgen Klinsmann has defended his decision to keep the United States as his base, insisting he is not neglecting his duties by spending so much time away from Germany. . . . more . . .
Senegal's Fadiga signed by Bolton (Sep 14, 2004)
Senegal international midfielder Khalilou Fadiga has been signed by Bolton Wanderers, the English Premiership club said. . . . more . . .
Wales coach Hughes tempted by Blackburn (Sep 14, 2004)
Wales coach Mark Hughes has admitted he is interested in taking over as manager of Blackburn who have lost Graeme Souness to Newcastle. . . . more . . .
Mourinho demands Champions League changes (Sep 14, 2004)
Jose Mourinho, who took unheralded Porto to the Champions League title last season, believes the continent's glamour competition is being undermined by fixture congestion. . . . more . . .
FIFA wins website battle (Sep 14, 2004)
World football's governing body FIFA said it had won a legal dispute over World Cup rights with a Florida Internet company that specialises in Latin American soccer. . . . more . . .
Nedved commits to Czechs (Sep 14, 2004)
Juventus star Pavel Nedved has scotched speculation he is about to retire from international football. . . . more . . .
Carrick debut shelved (Sep 14, 2004)
The Tottenham debut of midfielder Michael Carrick has been put on ice after he got an ankle injury in training, the Premiership club revealed. . . . more . . .
Kiely save leaves Saints cursing (Sep 14, 2004)
Charlton goalkeeper Dean Kiely's magnificent save handed his side a point in the 0-0 draw with Southampton at The Valley. . . . more . . .
Former Celtic striker Larsson on Barcelona bench (Sep 14, 2004)
Henrik Larsson was left on the bench by Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard on his return to Parkhead where the Catalonians meet their UEFA Cup conquerors of last season, Celtic on the opening night of the Champions League group stages. . . . more . . .
Bielsa resigns as Argentina coach (Sep 14, 2004)
Argentina national football coach Marcelo Bielsa has resigned from his post just over two weeks since he guided them to their first ever Olympic title, a national league spokesman told AFP. . . . more . . .
Arsenal make hard work of PSV (Sep 14, 2004)
Arsenal needed an own goal to brush aside PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League Group E opener at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Anglo-French rivalry stirs Champions League emotions (Sep 14, 2004)
The fierce, passionate sports rivalry between England and France descends into a cold war as the multi-million dollar Champions League bandwagon rolls once again across the continent. . . . more . . .
Adriano's double saves Vieri blushes as Inter beat 10-man Bremen (Sep 14, 2004)
Inter Milan's Champions League began with a 2-0 victory over Group G rivals Werder Bremen at the San Siro here. . . . more . . .
Wenger promises Gunners Champions League breakthrough (Sep 14, 2004)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes that Arsenal are finally about to come of age as serious Champions League contenders and bury years of under-achievement in Europe's premier club competition. . . . more . . .
Veron calls for calm as Inter prepare for German test (Sep 14, 2004)
Inter Milan's Juan Sebastian Veron has urged his team-mates not to reach for the panic button just because their first game of the new Serie A season didn't go according to plan. . . . more . . .
Champions Porto held by CSKA (Sep 14, 2004)
Defending champions FC Porto's UEFA Champions League campaign got off to a less than vintage start when they were held to a goalless draw by CSKA Moscow in their Group H match. . . . more . . .
Drogba double gives PSG the blues (Sep 14, 2004)
A fine double by Didier Drogba handed Chelsea a convincing 3-0 victory over French side Paris Saint Germain in their opening Champions League Group H encounter. . . . more . . .
Olympic heroics not enough as Bielsa resigns as Argentina coach (Sep 14, 2004)
Argentina national football coach Marcelo Bielsa has resigned from his post just over two weeks since he guided them to their first ever Olympic title, a national league spokesman told AFP. . . . more . . .
Celtic crash to first ever home Champions League defeat (Sep 14, 2004)
Celtic crashed to their first ever Champions League defeat at Parkhead when they went down 3-1 to Spanish giants Barcelona in their Group F tie. . . . more . . .
Celtic must be patient against Barcelona: O'Neill (Sep 14, 2004)
Martin O'Neill has called on the Celtic players and fans to remain patient when they take on Barcelona in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Manchester United skipper Keane in assault probe (Sep 14, 2004)
Police were investigating claims that Manchester United captain Roy Keane was involved in an alleged assault of a teenage boy. . . . more . . .
Newcastle look to Johnsen to plug holes (Sep 14, 2004)
Newcastle United are on the verge of signing former Manchester United and Aston Villa defender Ronny Johnsen on a short-term contract. . . . more . . .
Adriano's double saves Vieri's blushes as Inter beat 10-man Bremen (Sep 14, 2004)
Inter Milan's Champions League began with a 2-0 victory over Group G rivals Werder Bremen at the San Siro. . . . more . . .
West Brom players in bus brawl (Sep 13, 2004)
West Brom have launched an investigation into a brawl among players and coaching staff on the team bus after their weekend defeat at Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Rummenigge shoots down Champions League upstarts (Sep 13, 2004)
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, vice-president of Bayern Munich, believes Porto's surprise Champions League victory last season was a one-off claiming powerhouses such as Bayern, AC Milan and Real Madrid would be the only contenders this season. . . . more . . .
Lazio's Di Canio makes peace with Inzaghi after penalty row (Sep 13, 2004)
Lazio's temeperamental forward Paolo Di Canio has made up with Simone Inzaghi after falling out with his strike partner during the Serie A side's 1-0 victory away to Sampdoria. . . . more . . .
Voller's faith repaid as Montella takes off (Sep 13, 2004)
Roma coach Rudi Voller said Vincenzo Montella's winning goal against Fiorentina was just reward for all the effort the injury-plagued striker has put in on the training ground. . . . more . . .
Vieira challenges Arsenal team-mates to show European mettle (Sep 13, 2004)
Patrick Vieira, so nearly lured away by the glamour of nine-times European champions Real Madrid, has called on his Arsenal team-mates to prove their Champions League credentials in Tuesday's opening group game against PSV Eindhoven. . . . more . . .
Drogba wins case against diving (Sep 13, 2004)
Didier Drogba's yellow card against Aston Villa has been rescinded by the Football Association after referee Rob Styles, who had booked him for diving, reviewed video of the incident. . . . more . . .
English keepers cheer up Eriksson (Sep 13, 2004)
England coach Sven Goran Eriksson's goalkeeper worries could be solved fairly quickly, according to Norwich manager Nigel Worthington. . . . more . . .
City boss Keegan close to sack (Sep 13, 2004)
Former England manager Kevin Keegan could be facing the sack if Manchester City lose at Crystal Palace this weekend. . . . more . . .
Ljungberg Arsenal injury doubt (Sep 13, 2004)
Sweden's Fredrik Ljungberg is Arsenal's main injury doubt for their opening Champions League group match against PSV Eindhoven at home on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
No Rovers return for Hughes (Sep 13, 2004)
Mark Hughes ruled out replacing Graeme Souness at Premiership strugglers Blackburn Rovers and pledged his future to Wales and their quest to qualify for the 2006 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Lyon get their bite back as Juninho returns (Sep 13, 2004)
French champions Lyon received a huge boost when it was revealed that Brazilian playmaker Juninho Pernambucano would be in the starting line-up for their Champions League clash with Manchester United on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Kiely save leaves Saints cursing (Sep 13, 2004)
Charlton goalkeeper Dean Kiely's magnificent save handed his side a point in the 0-0 draw with Southampton at The Valley here. . . . more . . .
United rocked by Neville injury (Sep 13, 2004)
Manchester United's mediocre start to the season suffered another blow when it was revealed experienced England defender Gary Neville would be out for four weeks. . . . more . . .
Souness lays down rules for Newcastle brat pack (Sep 13, 2004)
Graeme Souness vowed to "educate" the so-called brat pack at Newcastle when he officially took over as Magpies manager. . . . more . . .
Bayern's Iranian Hashemian misses Israel trip with back injury (Sep 13, 2004)
Bayern Munich's Iranian international striker Vahid Hashemian will miss their trip to Israel for Wednesday's Champions League clash with Maccabi Tel-Aviv because of back problems, the German club said. . . . more . . .
Chelsea are the best in Europe says PSG coach Halilhodzic (Sep 13, 2004)
Vahid Halilhodzic described the task facing his Paris Saint Germain side at home to Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday by saying: "They are perhaps the best team in Europe at the moment." . . . more . . .
Record-breaking crowd see Sochaux beat Marseille (Sep 12, 2004)
Sochaux beat Marseille 2-0 at home in front of a record-breaking crowd which helped boost their poor start to the French league season. . . . more . . .
Gerrard would look pretty in white says Real president (Sep 12, 2004)
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has given further proof that the Spanish giants would dearly love to see Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard playing at the Bernabeu stadium. . . . more . . .
FIFA boss to tell Eriksson - your players were wrong (Sep 12, 2004)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter will tell Sven-Goran Eriksson that the England players were wrong to impose a media blackout after last week's World Cup qualifier win over Poland. . . . more . . .
I was swayed by Gunners player-power, admits pen ref (Sep 12, 2004)
Referee Mark Halsey has admitted that he changed his mind over awarding a penalty against Arsenal at Fulham due to the ferocious protests of the Gunners players. . . . more . . .
Souness brings in new backroom staff (Sep 12, 2004)
John Carver, caretaker manager at Newcastle after Bobby Robson's sacking, has also been let go as new coach Graeme Souness brings in his own backroom team. . . . more . . .
Mourinho in hot water over ref blast (Sep 12, 2004)
New Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho could face sanction for his attack on the referee in charge of Saturday's goalless draw against Aston Villa. . . . more . . .
Tottenham continue unbeaten start (Sep 12, 2004)
Tottenham Hotspur continued their unbeaten start to their Premiership campaign in a 0-0 draw with Norwich at White Hart Lane which will be remembered for defending and great saves. . . . more . . .
Jara relieved as Kaiserslautern move off bottom (Sep 12, 2004)
Under pressure Kaiserslautern coach Kurt Jara can breathe easier after his troops notched a 3-2 win at Hansa Rostock. . . . more . . .
Pauleta's penalty saves PSG (Sep 12, 2004)
Paris Saint Germain were heading for a painful fall against first division newcomers Istres ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash with Chelsea until Pauleta stepped in to save their blushes. . . . more . . .
Ferguson defends van Nistelrooy gamble (Sep 12, 2004)
Sir Alex Ferguson has defended his decision to rush Ruud van Nistelrooy back into action as a calculated risk ahead of this week's start of the Champions League group stage. . . . more . . .
Sutton hands Celtic injury headache for Barcelona clash (Sep 12, 2004)
Celtic boss Martin O'Neill admitted that Chris Sutton is doubtful for Tuesday's Champions League game against Barcelona after his side's comfortable 3-0 win at home to Dundee. . . . more . . .
Stuttgart top table, Leverkusen and Bremen fall (Sep 12, 2004)
VfB Stuttgart are the new Bundesliga leaders after a nervy 2-0 win over SV Hamburg moved them into pole position while Bayer Leverkusen and Werder Bremen had surprise defeats. . . . more . . .
Beckham hits winning response to critics (Sep 12, 2004)
England captain David Beckham and former Celtic favourite Henrik Larsson warmed-up for this week's Champions League openers by scoring the winning goals as Real Madrid and Barcelona went joint top of the Spanish league. . . . more . . .
McLeish under pressure as Rangers draw (Sep 12, 2004)
Rangers slipped seven points behind bitter rivals and Scottish Premier League leaders Celtic as they were held to a bruising 0-0 draw by Hearts at Tynecastle. . . . more . . .
Ibrahimovic on target as Juve thump Brescia (Sep 12, 2004)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic came off the bench to score on his debut as Juventus began the new Serie A season in Italy with a comfortable 3-0 victory away to Brescia. . . . more . . .
Gerrard stars in timely-win for Liverpool (Sep 12, 2004)
A towering performance by captain Steven Gerrard lifted Liverpool to a timely 3-0 win over West Brom ahead of next week's Champions League clash with Monaco. . . . more . . .
Managerless Blackburn look beyond defeat to Magpies (Sep 12, 2004)
Blackburn Rovers' caretaker manager Tony Parkes tried to look beyond his sides dismal 3-0 defeat at Newcastle by predicting there would be a new manager at Ewood Park before their next Premiership match. . . . more . . .
No photo finish needed as Camara double pushes Celtic further ahead (Sep 11, 2004)
Celtic moved eight points clear of Rangers in the Scottish Premier League with a comfortable 3-0 win at home to Dundee. . . . more . . .
Lucky Gunners extend run on Vieira return (Sep 11, 2004)
Freddie Ljungberg's controversial strike set Arsenal on the way to extending their unbeaten league run to 45 games with a 3-0 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage. . . . more . . .
Keeper Dida sees red as new boys Livorno match Milan (Sep 11, 2004)
Newly-promoted Livorno twice came from behind to snatch a 2-2 draw away to defending Italian champions AC Milan, the first day of the new Serie A season. . . . more . . .
United claim injury time point (Sep 11, 2004)
Manchester United avoided even more serious damage to their fading title challenge when substitute David Bellion struck an injury-time leveller to settle a dramatic 2-2 draw with Bolton. . . . more . . .
Magpies start flying for Souness (Sep 11, 2004)
Graeme Souness begins his job as manager of Newcastle United on Monday with his new employers buoyed by an important 3-0 home victory against his former club, a result that lifted much of the early-season gloom around St James' Park. . . . more . . .
Combative Villa end Mourinho's perfect start (Sep 11, 2004)
Chelsea dropped their first points of the season when they were held to a goalless draw by a combative Aston Villa side at Villa Park. . . . more . . .
Beckham puts Real on top in Spain (Sep 11, 2004)
England captain David Beckham scored the only goal of the game as Real Madrid struggled past promoted Numancia 1-0 to go top of the Spanish first division. . . . more . . .
Vieira must convince sceptical Arsenal fans: Wenger (Sep 11, 2004)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger warned that midfielder Patrick Vieira must convince fans he is still committed to the Premiership champions after he almost deserted Highbury for Spanish giants Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Stars fail to shine as Inter are held (Sep 11, 2004)
Inter Milan's expensively-assembled team were held to a 2-2 draw by plucky Chievo, the opening day of the new Serie A season in Italy. . . . more . . .
Diouf criticises former Liverpool boss Houllier (Sep 11, 2004)
Liverpool's Senegal forward El-Hadji Diouf, now on-loan at Bolton, has criticised the management style of former boss Gerard Houllier. . . . more . . .
Recent press coverage unfair says England's Hargreaves (Sep 11, 2004)
England midfielder Owen Hargreaves said recent press criticism had been unfair leading to their refusal to be interviewed after their midweek 2-1 World Cup win over Poland. . . . more . . .
Rooney contract could lead to match-fixing says Wenger (Sep 11, 2004)
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger claims Wayne Rooney's contract with Manchester United could lead to match-fixing. . . . more . . .
Blatter blast for Beckham over media blackout (Sep 11, 2004)
FIFA President Sepp Blatter has blasted David Beckham and his England team-mates over their refusal to speak to the media following their World Cup qualifier against Poland. . . . more . . .
Gerrard stars as Liverpool ease past West Brom (Sep 11, 2004)
Steven Gerrard produced a tremendous performance to inspire Liverpool to a comfortable 3-0 victory against West Brom at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Football legend Maradona rushed to hospital (Sep 11, 2004)
Football legend Diego Maradona, who nearly died earlier this year with heart and lung problems, was rushed to hospital with high blood pressure and a fever, medical sources told AFP. . . . more . . .
Pauleta's penalty saves PSG (Sep 11, 2004)
Paris Saint Germain were heading for a painful fall against first division newcomers Istres ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash with Chelsea until Pauleta stepped in to save their blushes. . . . more . . .
Beckham and Larsson on target as Barca and Real go top (Sep 11, 2004)
England captain David Beckham and former Celtic favourite Henrik Larsson warmed-up for next week's Champions League openers by scoring the winning goals as Real Madrid and Barcelona went joint top of the Spanish league. . . . more . . .
Stuttgart at summit, Leverkusen and Bremen fall (Sep 11, 2004)
VfB Stuttgart are the new Bundesliga leaders after a nervy 2-0 win over SV Hamburg moved them into pole position while Bayer Leverkusen and Werder Bremen succumbed to surprise defeats. . . . more . . .
Gunners pull clear as Chelsea stumble for first time (Sep 11, 2004)
Arsenal produced a devastating change of gear to sink Fulham and pull clear of Chelsea at the top of the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Celtic move eight points clear with 3-0 win against Dundee (Sep 11, 2004)
Celtic moved eight points clear of Rangers in the Scottish Premier League with a comfortable 3-0 win at home to Dundee. . . . more . . .
Chelsea's Huth hailed as Germany's new star (Sep 11, 2004)
Chelsea's German international defender Robert Huth is the talk of German football after his impressive full debut in the 1-1 draw with Brazil in Berlin. . . . more . . .
Forceful Allardyce convinced me to join Bolton: Hierro (Sep 11, 2004)
Former Spain captain Fernando Hierro praised Bolton manager Sam Allardyce for convincing him to join the Premiership side. . . . more . . .
Vogts's job is safe: Scottish FA (Sep 10, 2004)
Scotland coach Berti Vogts was told his job is safe despite his team being booed off Hampden Park after the 0-0 World Cup qualifying draw against Slovenia. . . . more . . .
Allardyce reveals Newcastle bid (Sep 10, 2004)
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce said he was approached to take over at Newcastle before the Magpies installed Graeme Souness in the St James's Park hotseat. . . . more . . .
Ortega FIFA ban temporarily lifted (Sep 10, 2004)
Former Argentina international striker Ariel Ortega has had his FIFA ban temporarily suspended so he can play his next two league matches for Newell's Old Boys, an Argentine football federation official revealed. . . . more . . .
Vogts's job is safe, say Scots (Sep 10, 2004)
Scotland coach Berti Vogts was told his job is safe despite his team being booed off Hampden Park after the 0-0 World Cup qualifying draw against Slovenia. . . . more . . .
Beckham signs 50-million-euro contract (Sep 10, 2004)
England football captain David Beckham has signed a 50-million-euro, five-year contract with US company Gillette. . . . more . . .
Kenyan football federation wants Ulinzi Stars ban to be lifted (Sep 10, 2004)
Kenya Football Federation (KFF) officials have appealed to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to lift the three-year ban on Kenya's league champions Ulinzi Stars as part of a reconciliation process. . . . more . . .
Red-card Savage ponders international future (Sep 10, 2004)
Controversial Wales midfielder Robbie Savage has admitted he is on the verge of quitting international football after being sent-off in his side's 2-2 draw with Northern Ireland. . . . more . . .
France football federation president Simonet to stand down (Sep 10, 2004)
French football federation president Claude Simonet, who has been at the helm during the country's most successful period internationally, said he would be standing down next year. . . . more . . .
Rooney faces new fitness battle (Sep 10, 2004)
England's World Cup planning suffered a setback when Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson revealed that Wayne Rooney may have to delay his debut. . . . more . . .
Mourinho fears God, not the Red Devils (Sep 10, 2004)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho revealed he was afraid of nothing in the world of football, including arch rivals Manchester United, and the only thing he feared in life was God. . . . more . . .
I wasn't on Newcastle list, says Shearer (Sep 10, 2004)
Former England striker Alan Shearer admitted that he was never approached to succeed Bobby Robson as manager of Newcastle. . . . more . . .
England goal was life's highlight, says Defoe (Sep 10, 2004)
Jermain Defoe said that his spectacular goal in England's World Cup win against Poland was a moment for which he had been waiting all of his life. . . . more . . .
Bayern striker Santa Cruz out six weeks (Sep 10, 2004)
Bayern Munich striker Roque Santa Cruz will be out of action for six weeks after suffering ligament damage to his knee, the German league club revealed. . . . more . . .
European clubs split on need to protect home-grown players (Sep 10, 2004)
A split has emerged between big and small European football clubs over the need to field or train a minimum number of home-grown players, UEFA said after a meeting of its recently-formed European Club Forum. . . . more . . .
Japan crush India as S.Korea, China struggle in World Cup qualifiers (Sep 09, 2004)
Newly-crowned Asian champions Japan stayed on course for the 2006 World Cup in convincing fashion while South Korea and China were made to struggle in their qualifying matches. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann and Germany take plaudits afer Brazil draw (Sep 09, 2004)
German manager Jurgen Klinsmann has brought some much-needed hope to German football with Wednesday's 1-1 draw against Brazil in Berlin widely lauded in the domestic media. . . . more . . .
Wales not out of it: Hughes (Sep 09, 2004)
Wales' World Cup qualifying hopes are still very much alive despite the disappointing 2-2 draw against Northern Ireland, manager Mark Hughes insists. . . . more . . .
James to fight for England place (Sep 09, 2004)
Under-fire England goalkeeper David James will fight to regain his place in the side after being dropped for Wednesday's World Cup qualifier against Poland, his agent says. . . . more . . .
Defoe expands England strike options (Sep 09, 2004)
England made unnecessarily hard work of securing four points from their first two World Cup qualifiers. . . . more . . .
Vogts's job is safe, say Scots (Sep 09, 2004)
Scotland coach Berti Vogts was told his job is safe despite his team being booed off Hampden Park after the 0-0 World Cup qualifying draw against Slovenia. . . . more . . .
Red-card Savage ponders international future (Sep 09, 2004)
Controversial Wales midfielder Robbie Savage has admitted he is on the verge of quitting international football after being sent-off in his side's 2-2 draw with Northern Ireland. . . . more . . .
Allardyce reveals Newcastle bid (Sep 09, 2004)
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce said that he was approached to take over at Newcastle before the Magpies installed Graeme Souness in the St James's Park hotseat. . . . more . . .
Mexico beat Trinidad and Tobago 3-1 in World Cup qualifier (Sep 09, 2004)
Mexico launched their campaign in the third round of 2006 World Cup qualifying with a 3-1 victory over Trinidad and Tobago. . . . more . . .
England critics get silent treatment as Sven fights on (Sep 09, 2004)
England's under-fire players followed up a performance to silence even their fiercest critics by treating their tormentors to a dose of the silent treatment. . . . more . . .
Fiorese sale sparks war of words between Marseille and PSG (Sep 09, 2004)
Relations between arch rivals Paris Saint Germain and Marseille, frosty at the best of times, have hit rock bottom over the Fabrice Fiorese transfer affair. . . . more . . .
Luck and bold decisions save Sven's job in Poland: British press (Sep 09, 2004)
Sven-Goran Eriksson is redeemed as England coach partly through luck but also because he took the bold selection decisions necessary ahead of England's 2-1 victory over Poland, the British press said. . . . more . . .
USA grab draw with Panama to keep Group A lead (Sep 09, 2004)
An injury-time goal lifted the United States to a 1-1 draw against Panama, enough for the Amerians to maintain their lead in Group A in the third round of 2006 World Cup qualifying in the North and Central America and Caribbean region. . . . more . . .
Del Piero all smiles after ending year-long goal drought (Sep 09, 2004)
Alessandro Del Piero was all smiles after justifying his recall to the Italy team by scoring the winning goal in Wednesday's hard-fought 1-0 victory away to Moldova. . . . more . . .
Cancer surgery for former Croatia coach Blazevic (Sep 09, 2004)
Former Croatia coach Miroslav Blazevic, who led his country to third place at the 1998 World Cup, has undergone surgery for prostate cancer in Austria. . . . more . . .
French footballer pleads guilty to dangerous driving in London (Sep 09, 2004)
French-born Southampton winger Fabrice Fernandes pleaded guilty to a bout of dangerous driving in which he raced through nine red lights in London with a police car in hot pursuit. . . . more . . .
Vogts defiant as Scotland struggle (Sep 09, 2004)
Scotland manager Berti Vogts insists Scotland can still qualify for the World Cup in 2006 despite their goalless draw with Slovenia at Hampden. . . . more . . .
Domenech questions French commitment after Faroe's win (Sep 09, 2004)
France coach Raymond Domenech said his team had to show more commitment after their 2-0 win over the Faroe Islands in a World Cup qualifier marred by the expulsion of captain Patrick Vieria for diving. . . . more . . .
Switzerland and Ireland battle to draw (Sep 08, 2004)
Switzerland and Ireland battled their way through to a spirited 1-1 draw to keep both sides on top of the 2006 World Cup qualifying Group Four alongside France and Israel. . . . more . . .
Frings unwilling to be Germany's utility man (Sep 08, 2004)
Bayern Munich's versatile midfielder Torsten Frings has told German national coach Jurgen Klinsmann that he will only play in midfield and not be dragged all over the pitch for the benefit of the team. . . . more . . .
Top European nations have chance to regain authority (Sep 08, 2004)
Top European nations Greece, France, England, and Italy have the chance to regain their authority in World Cup qualifying following opening night nerves at the weekend. . . . more . . .
Euro 2008 organisers drop Swiss stadium (Sep 08, 2004)
The organisers of Euro 2008 in Austria and Switzerland dropped plans to use a new football stadium in Zurich after a long-running battle with environmentalists in the Swiss city. . . . more . . .
Winning girlfiend's hand tougher than winning World Cup: Ronaldo (Sep 08, 2004)
Brazil superstar Ronaldo believes that asking his model girlfriend to marry him was harder than winning the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Domenech questions French commitment after Faroe's win (Sep 08, 2004)
France coach Raymond Domenech said his team had to show more commitment after their 2-0 win over the Faroe Islands in a World Cup qualifier marred by the expulsion of captain Patrick Vieria for diving. . . . more . . .
Nine-man Northern Ireland hang on for draw in Wales (Sep 08, 2004)
Northern Ireland drew 2-2 with Wales in a bloody World Cup Group Six clash here in a match which saw three players red-carded. . . . more . . .
Japan crush India while South Korea and China struggle (Sep 08, 2004)
Newly-crowned Asian champions Japan stayed on course for the 2006 World Cup in convincing fashion while 10-man South Korea as well as China were made to struggle in qualifying matches. . . . more . . .
Virtuoso Defoe gets England back on track (Sep 08, 2004)
Jermain Defoe celebrated his first international start with a superbly taken goal as England hauled their World Cup qualifying campaign out of the mire with a gritty 2-1 win over Poland. . . . more . . .
England players take vow of omerta after press criticism (Sep 08, 2004)
The England team hit back at recent press criticism by refusing to be interviewed after their 2-1 World Cup win over Poland. . . . more . . .
Ten-man France sink plucky Islanders (Sep 08, 2004)
France's wobbly World Cup campaign was back on track after a 2-0 win over the Faroe Islands in a game marred by the expulsion of captain Patrick Vieria for diving. . . . more . . .
Germany's Kuranyi strikes to peg back native Brazil (Sep 08, 2004)
Jurgen Klinsmann's impressive start as German coach continued with a creditable 1-1 friendly draw against world champions Brazil with Brazilian-born marksman Kevin Kuranyi cancelling out Ronaldinho's sensational free-kick. . . . more . . .
Bitter rivals Greece and Turkey in scoreless draw (Sep 08, 2004)
Greece and Turkey played a scoreless draw at a packed newly constructed Karaiskaki Stadium in a Group 2 World Cup 2006 qualifier. . . . more . . .
Vogts under pressure as jeered Scots held at home (Sep 08, 2004)
Scotland failed to get their World Cup qualifying campaign off to a winning start with a 0-0 draw at home to Slovenia at Hampden which piled further pressure on manager Berti Vogts. . . . more . . .
Danish striker Tomasson agrees AC Milan contract extension (Sep 08, 2004)
Reigning champions AC Milan have extended striker Jon Dahl Tomasson's contract until the end of June 2009, the Italian Serie A club said. . . . more . . .
Del Piero answers critics by steering Italy to narrow win (Sep 08, 2004)
Italy's 2006 World Cup campaign gathered momentum despite a scrappy 1-0 win away to Group Five rivals Moldova. . . . more . . .
Ten-man South Korea come from behind to beat Vietnam (Sep 08, 2004)
Ten-man South Korea came from a goal down to beat unheralded Vietnam 2-1 and maintain their position at the top of Asian Group 7 in World Cup qualifying. . . . more . . .
Van Hooijdonk inspires daring Dutch (Sep 08, 2004)
Pierre van Hooijdonk ensured Marco van Basten enjoyed his first competitive match as coach of the Netherlands producing both goals in their 2-0 win over the Czech Republic. . . . more . . .
Keegan backs James to put blunder behind him (Sep 08, 2004)
Manchester City mananger Kevin Keegan insisted his goalkeeper David James could still succeed at international level despite his mistake in conceding the equaliser in England's World Cup qualifier against Austria. . . . more . . .
China coach wary of slip-ups on road to World Cup (Sep 07, 2004)
China coach Arie Haan warned his players to avoid any slip-ups against Malaysia when they resume their quest for the 2006 World Cup finals here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
No let-up against India, vows Japan coach Zico (Sep 07, 2004)
Japan coach Zico has vowed there will be no let-up in the form which took them to a second consecutive Asian Cup title as they face lowly India in World Cup qualifying. . . . more . . .
Eriksson confident England can perform in shadow of guillotine (Sep 07, 2004)
Sven-Goran Eriksson insisted that England would play without fear against Poland on Wednesday -- despite the guillotine hanging over his position as coach and his squad's chances of qualifying for the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Newcastle fans will welcome Souness, Macdonald says (Sep 07, 2004)
Newcastle United's fanatical fans will give new Magpies boss Graeme Souness a warm welcome even though he was not the man they wanted according to former star striker Malcolm Macdonald. . . . more . . .
Souness can bring good times to Newcastle, says Shearer (Sep 07, 2004)
Newcastle striker Alan Shearer believes Graeme Souness can bring the good times rolling back to St James' Park. . . . more . . .
European champions Greece have point to prove (Sep 07, 2004)
European champions Greece have a point to prove against Turkey here on Wednesday in an eagerly-awaited 2006 World Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .
Albanian immigrants denounce widespread violence in Greece (Sep 07, 2004)
Around 100 Albanians were injured during clashes across Greece following late Saturday's World Cup qualifier between the two countries, an immigrants' association said. . . . more . . .
Beckham set to face Poles: Eriksson (Sep 07, 2004)
England skipper David Beckham is set to shrug off his rib injury and take his place in the crucial World Cup qualifier against Poland. . . . more . . .
Van Basten under pressure from Czechs (Sep 07, 2004)
Marco Van Basten's first competitive outing as Dutch coach is in danger of being sabotaged by an injury crisis which has undermined his planning for Wednesday's World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic. . . . more . . .
SKorea aim to bust Vietnam wide open in World Cup qualifier (Sep 07, 2004)
New coach Jo Bonfrere is hoping Wednesday's 2006 soccer World Cup qualifying match against Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City will be a one-way affair. . . . more . . .
Owen pleads not guilty to complacency charges (Sep 07, 2004)
Michael Owen has hit out at suggestions that he and David Beckham are underperforming for England because they know they will never be dropped by Sven-Goran Eriksson. . . . more . . .
Security tight as Israel hosts first competitive tie in three years (Sep 07, 2004)
Israel will stage a major security operation as their national team hosts the first competitive match in nearly three years in a World Cup qualifier on Wednesday against Cyprus. . . . more . . .
Mourinho denies harassing female Porto fan (Sep 07, 2004)
Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho denied allegations that he harassed a female football fan as the war of words between him and supporters of his former club Porto intensified. . . . more . . .
Scotland win vital for Vogts (Sep 07, 2004)
Scotland take on Slovenia at Hampden Park on Wednesday in their first World Cup qualifier with defeat unthinkable for under-pressure manager Berti Vogts. . . . more . . .
Drogba puts his shirt on Ivory Coast president (Sep 07, 2004)
Chelsea striker Didier Drogba presented a shirt of the London club to Ivory Coast head of state Laurent Gbagbo after his country's World Cup qualifier at the weekend. . . . more . . .
Newcastle fans will welcome Souness: Macdonald (Sep 07, 2004)
Newcastle United's fanatical fans will give new Magpies boss Graeme Souness a warm welcome even though he was not the man they wanted according to former star striker Malcolm Macdonald. . . . more . . .
Souness takes over at Newcastle (Sep 06, 2004)
Fiery Scot Graeme Souness was appointed as the new manager of Newcastle United after his shock resignation at Blackburn Rovers. . . . more . . .
Majestic Brazil closing in on World Cup finals (Sep 06, 2004)
Reigning champions Brazil turned on the style to beat outclassed Bolivia 3-1 here to stay firmly on course for the 2006 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Argentina top South American zone after win over Peru (Sep 06, 2004)
Newly-crowned Olympic champions Argentina moved to the top of the South American zone qualifier for the 2006 World Cup finals by comfortably defeating Peru 3-1. . . . more . . .
Maradona allowed to continue drug treatment in Cuba (Sep 06, 2004)
Diego Maradona has received permission to pursue treatment for his longstanding cocaine addiction in Cuba, his lawyer announced. . . . more . . .
Two Japanese Serie A players to miss World Cup qualifier against India (Sep 06, 2004)
Japan coach Zico has dropped two Italy-based players from his squad travelling to India for the World Cup qualifying match in Calcutta on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Beckham injury concern for Poland (Sep 06, 2004)
Captain David Beckham emerged as England's main injury concern ahead of Wednesday's World Cup qualifier against Poland. . . . more . . .
I'll bounce back against Poles, pledges James (Sep 06, 2004)
Under-fire goalkeeper David James pledged to prove he is worth his place in Sven-Goran Eriksson's team when England face Poland in a crucial World Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .
Magath methods not welcomed by Bayern millionaires (Sep 06, 2004)
Just four competitive games into the new season Bayern Munich coach Felix Magath faces a real power struggle as his gruelling training ground regimes and outspoken comments anger big-name players. . . . more . . .
Bueno reignites Uruguayan World Cup hopes (Sep 06, 2004)
A second-half goal from Carlos Bueno gave Uruguay a 1-0 win over Ecuador to breathe new life into their World Cup qualifying campaign. . . . more . . .
Beckham hardly merits being in England team says former captain (Sep 06, 2004)
Former England captain Terry Butcher has hit out at David Beckham claiming his performances during the last three years hardly merit him being in the team. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo sets wedding date (Sep 06, 2004)
Brazil football superstar Ronaldo has set the date of January 2 next year to marry his fiancee, Brazilian model Daniella Cicarelli, probably in Paris. . . . more . . .
Mistakes happen to all keepers says Jones (Sep 05, 2004)
Wales keeper Paul Jones, who admitted Azerbaijan's equaliser was his fault, said mistakes happened to all keepers in comments which England's David James would be pleased to hear. . . . more . . .
England and France suffer first night nerves as Greeks tumble (Sep 05, 2004)
Former winners England and France were held to frustrating draws as they got their 2006 World Cup campaigns off to unconvincing starts as European champions Greece came crashing back to earth suffering an embarrassing defeat in Albania. . . . more . . .
Venables involved in Newcastle discussions (Sep 05, 2004)
Terry Venables is involved in discussions for a possible move to take over as Newcastle manager. . . . more . . .
Real still after Gerrard (Sep 05, 2004)
Big-spenders Real Madrid have not given up on Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard and have made buying him their priority for next year. . . . more . . .
Forget Zidane and concentrate on future, says Henry (Sep 05, 2004)
France's Arsenal attacker Thierry Henry urged his teammates and fans to forget about retired stars like Zinedine Zidane and concentrate on the future. . . . more . . .
Keane to make surprise comeback to Ireland squad (Sep 05, 2004)
Roy Keane will join Republic of Ireland's squad preparing to play Switzerland after improvements in rib injuries has meant he is ready for a surprise return. . . . more . . .
I'm staying with England, Eriksson says (Sep 05, 2004)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson said he had no intention of resigning and denied that Wednesday's World Cup qualifier in Poland could be his last match in charge. . . . more . . .
Yartsev resigns as Russia coach (Sep 05, 2004)
Russia coach Georgy Yartsev has resigned after a disappointing 1-1 draw at home to Slovakia in his side's opening World Cup qualifier, the Echo of Moscow radio station said. . . . more . . .
Russians deny Yartsev departure (Sep 05, 2004)
Russian Football Union (RFU) chief Vyacheslav Koloskov dismissed reports that the coach of the national side, Georgy Yartsev, had resigned, RIA-NOVOSTI news agency said. . . . more . . .
Shocker from Euro champs Greece (Sep 05, 2004)
European champions Greece left their fans shaking their heads in disbelief after they lost 2-1 to Albania in their opening World Cup qualifier in Tirana. . . . more . . .
Calamitous collapse leaves Eriksson hanging by a thread (Sep 05, 2004)
It was not just a two-goal lead England threw away in their opening World Cup qualifier against Austria. . . . more . . .
Gerrard victim of bench blunder (Sep 05, 2004)
England midfielder Steven Gerrard added to his team's World Cup misery by admitting that his substitution in the 2-2 draw here with Austria was a case of mistaken identity. . . . more . . .
USA defeats El Salvador in ugly game (Sep 05, 2004)
Little used forward Brian Ching led America to a 2-0 win over a short-handed El Salvador in a World Cup qualifying game here Saturday. . . . more . . .
Majestic Brazil closing in on World Cup finals (Sep 05, 2004)
Reigning champions Brazil turned on the style to beat outclassed Bolivia 3-1 here to stay firmly on course for the 2006 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
New-look France held by jinx team Israel (Sep 04, 2004)
New-look France lacked ideas as they were held to a 0-0 draw by jinx team Israel in their first World Cup qualifier for more than 10 years at the Stade de France. . . . more . . .
Ethnic Albanians in Kosovo joy at World Cup qualifier win (Sep 04, 2004)
Thousands of ethnic Albanians took to the streets of Kosovo's capital Pristina to celebrate neighbouring Albania's 2006 world Cup qualifier win over European champions Greece. . . . more . . .
'Golden oldie' Bwalya is Zambia hero (Sep 04, 2004)
Zambia leapt to the top of a 2006 World Cup qualifying group in Africa thanks to a last-minute goal from 'golden oldie' Kalusha Bwalya. . . . more . . .
Three-star Ireland breeze past Cyprus (Sep 04, 2004)
The Republic of Ireland kicked off their 2006 World Cup campaign with a comfortable 3-0 win over Cyprus in sunny Dublin. . . . more . . .
Calamity strikes England as James blunder gifts Austria point (Sep 04, 2004)
England's World Cup qualifying campaign got off to a disastrous start as Austria fought back from two goals down to snatch a 2-2 draw courtesy of a horrendous blunder by goalkeeper David James. . . . more . . .
Draw hands Wales early World Cup setback (Sep 04, 2004)
Wales' hopes of getting their World Cup qualifying campaign off to a flying start suffered a major setback when they were held to a 1-1 draw by lowly Azerbaijan. . . . more . . .
Russia stumble to draw with Slovakia (Sep 04, 2004)
Russia missed a late penalty and had to settle for a disappointing 1-1 draw with Slovakia as they kicked off their 2006 World Cup qualifying campaign. . . . more . . .
Owen set to wait as Raul reaps real plaudits (Sep 04, 2004)
Michael Owen may have helped Real Madrid to their opening-day Spanish league win over Mallorca but Raul, the man he replaced after the latter suffered a first-half thigh injury, is still flavour of the month in Spain. . . . more . . .
Rooney prepared to wait for United glory (Sep 04, 2004)
Wayne Rooney believes he may have to wait until next season to celebrate Premiership title glory with Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Northern Irish find little salvation in the Poles (Sep 04, 2004)
Northern Ireland's mini-revival under Lawrie Sanchez came to a juddering halt as Poland outclassed them to run out 3-0 winners in their opening 2006 World Cup Group Six clash. . . . more . . .
Late sub Luca saves Lippi's blushes (Sep 04, 2004)
A late goal by substitute Luca Toni lifted Italy to a 2-1 win over Norway to hand Marcello Lippi his first win since taking over as coach in this Group Five 2006 World Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .
Southampton rule out lead role for Woodward (Sep 03, 2004)
Southampton chairman Rupert Lowe has insisted that former England rugby coach Sir Clive Woodward would not be given a leading role to play as coach or manager. . . . more . . .
On-form Argentina up against vengeful Peru (Sep 03, 2004)
Argentina is on a high following their Olympics gold medal victory in Athens, and coach Marcelo Bielsa has rewarded those players by selecting nine of them for the tough World Cup qualifying encounter with Peru on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Refreshed Beckham relishing final shot at World Cup glory (Sep 03, 2004)
David Beckham has admitted that the 2006 World Cup is likely to be his last chance of winning a major tournament with England. . . . more . . .
Eriksson keeps the faith with Beckham and co. (Sep 03, 2004)
The twin shocks of a disappointing quarter-final exit from Euro 2004 and a subsequent attempt by his employers to oust him from his job have not shaken Sven-Goran Eriksson's faith in his own judgement. . . . more . . .
Gerrard set to miss England World Cup opener (Sep 03, 2004)
Steven Gerrard is set to miss out on England's opening World Cup qualifier against Austria on Saturday after failing to shake off a groin injury he suffered in training earlier this week. . . . more . . .
Eriksson rings the changes reluctantly (Sep 03, 2004)
The twin shocks of a disappointing quarter-final exit from Euro 2004 and a subsequent attempt by his employers to oust him from his job have not shaken Sven-Goran Eriksson's faith in his own judgement. . . . more . . .
Injury fears surround Poborsky (Sep 03, 2004)
Midfielder Karel Poborsky is an injury doubt for the Czech Republic's World Cup qualifier against the Netherlands next week due to a back injury. . . . more . . .
We can't rush into replacing Sir Bobby says Newcastle chairman (Sep 03, 2004)
Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd said the club will not be rushed into replacing Sir Bobby Robson, who was relieved of his duties four games into the Premiership last week. . . . more . . .
Scots hold Spain as power cut brings early finish (Sep 03, 2004)
Scotland gave Spain a mighty fright before a floodlight failure brought an early end to their international friendly clash with the sides locked at 1-1. . . . more . . .
Liberian children get unexpected windfall from Rooney transfer (Sep 03, 2004)
While Everton fans are aghast at the loss of Wayne Rooney to Manchester United, for some children in far-off Liberia there is an unexpected bonus - a mass of unwanted Everton football shirts bearing the teenage star's name. . . . more . . .
Vieira to lead French revolution (Sep 03, 2004)
A new look France will set out on the road to the 2006 World Cup finals against Israel here on Saturday boosted by the return from injury of captain Patrick Vieira. . . . more . . .
Dream job could turn into nightmare for newcomer Lippi (Sep 03, 2004)
Marcello Lippi's dream job could turn into his worst nightmare if his Italy team fail to produce positive results from their two World Cup 2006 qualifiers against Norway and Moldova. . . . more . . .
Ferguson on tenterhooks as World Cup qualifiers commence (Sep 03, 2004)
The Europe zone World Cup qualifiers will kick off in earnest, but not for Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson who will be on tenterhooks as a number of his stars take to the international stage. . . . more . . .
Substituted Lucio attacks Bayern coach (Sep 02, 2004)
Brazil international Lucio has heavily criticised his Bayern Munich coach Felix Magath for taking him off in last weekend's 4-1 loss to Bayer Leverkusen. . . . more . . .
England's Gerrard suffers groin injury (Sep 02, 2004)
Steven Gerrard suffered a groin strain during England training but officials insisted the Liverpool midfielder would be fit in time for Saturday's World Cup qualifier away to Austria. . . . more . . .
Rooney fee "exorbitant": Benitez (Sep 02, 2004)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez said the fee Manchester United paid for Wayne Rooney was "exorbitant". . . . more . . .
O'Leary staying put say Villa (Sep 02, 2004)
Aston Villa dismissed suggestions that their manager, David O'Leary, would be taking over at English Premiership rivals Newcastle United following the sacking of Sir Bobby Robson. . . . more . . .
Ferguson has no fears for record buy Rooney (Sep 02, 2004)
Alex Ferguson has moved quickly to put a protective shield around teenage striker Wayne Rooney - and Manchester United's new record signing insists he is mature enough to evade the pitfalls that could derail his emerging career. . . . more . . .
Betting suspended on Venables move to Newcastle (Sep 02, 2004)
One of Britain's leading bookmakers temporarily suspended betting on Terry Venables succeeding Bobby Robson as Newcastle manager. . . . more . . .
Barthez to stay on for World Cup (Sep 02, 2004)
France's talismanic 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 winning goalkeeper Fabien Barthez has pledged himself to his country till after the 2006 World Cup finals, he revealed. . . . more . . .
Mourinho recalls death threats before Champion League final (Sep 02, 2004)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has given new details of the death threats which he says he received on the eve of his former club FC Porto's Champions League final win against Monaco in May. . . . more . . .
McCarthy disappointed Everton move failed (Sep 02, 2004)
South African striker Benny McCarthy said he was extremely disappointed that FC Porto quashed his proposed transfer to English Premiership side Everton at the last minute. . . . more . . .
Kirkland gets offer to return home (Sep 02, 2004)
Liverpool's highly-rated goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has been offered a loan deal by his former club Coventry it wasd announced. . . . more . . .
European champions "bitter" over bonuses (Sep 02, 2004)
Euro 2004 champions Greece are unhappy that they are stil waiting on bonuses totalling four million euros promised to them by the Greek government. . . . more . . .
Deisler returns after year in the international wilderness (Sep 02, 2004)
Bayern Munich's in-form midfielder Sebastian Deisler returns to the international stage for Germany next week after a year out to deal with depression. . . . more . . .
Woodward given Lions warning (Sep 02, 2004)
Sir Clive Woodward has been warned that the confusion surrounding his departure from the job of England coach could have a knock-on effect for his role in heading up the British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand next year. . . . more . . .
FC Porto says McCarthy going staying put (Sep 01, 2004)
South Africa striker Benny McCarthy, who has been linked to English Premiership side Everton, is staying put at FC Porto, the president of the European champions said. . . . more . . .
Marseille-bound Fiorese held us hostage: PSG coach (Sep 01, 2004)
Paris Saint Germain's attacking midfielder Fabrice Fiorese signed a four-year contract with Marseille in acrimonious circumstances. . . . more . . .
Ferguson thanks Newcastle for Rooney capture (Sep 01, 2004)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson admitted that had Newcastle United not made a bid for Wayne Rooney he would not have made an offer. . . . more . . .
Barthez out of French World Cup qualifiers (Sep 01, 2004)
A right foot injury has forced France's talismanic goalkeeper Fabien Barthez to pull out of their two World Cup qualifiers with Israel and the Faroe Islands. . . . more . . .
Ferguson hails Rooney as 27-million-pound bargain (Sep 01, 2004)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has hailed Wayne Rooney as a bargain at 27 million pounds, describing the 18-year-old England forward as the best player the country has produced in 30 years. . . . more . . .
Camacho angry with Real as Sanchez is feted (Sep 01, 2004)
Michael Owen flew off to join up with England for his country's two opening World Cup qualifiers having tasted his first home action as a Real Madrid player, leaving the striker and David Beckham out of earshot as Real coach Jose Antonio Camacho blasted his team for lack of motivation. . . . more . . .
United confirm 1.5 million pounds paid to Rooney agent (Sep 01, 2004)
Manchester United confirmed to the Stock Exchange that they had paid a fee of up to 1.5 million pounds (2.2m euros, 2.7m dollars) to football agent Paul Stretford for organising the transfer of Wayne Rooney from Everton. . . . more . . .
PSG midfielder Fiorese joins Marseille (Sep 01, 2004)
Paris Saint Germain's attacking midfielder Fabrice Fiorese has signed a four-year contract with Marseille, it was revealed at the southern French first division club. . . . more . . .
Burke ready for Premiership crunch (Sep 01, 2004)
Australian rugby legend Matt Burke believes playing in the English Premiership will prove more physically testing than his time in Super 12 with the Waratahs. . . . more . . .
Five players excluded from Brazil squad (Sep 01, 2004)
Five players who did not play in Brazil's friendly international in Haiti have not been called up for their 2006 South American World Cup qualifier against Bolivia at Sao Paulo. . . . more . . .
Blackburn striker Yorke joins Birmingham (Sep 01, 2004)
Blackburn's Dwight Yorke has joined Birmingham who edged out Celtic in the race to capture the Trinidad and Tobago and former Manchester United striker. . . . more . . .
French defender Mexes suspended six weeks by FIFA (Sep 01, 2004)
AS Roma defender Philippe Mexes has been suspended six weeks by FIFA from September 12 after inquiring into his transfer from Auxerre to Rome, the player's agent Olivier Jouanneaux said. . . . more . . .
Eriksson shrugs off sack fears (Sep 01, 2004)
Sven-Goran Eriksson has shrugged off suggestions his job could be on the line if England fail to make a convincing start to their World Cup qualifying campaign. . . . more . . .
