Archive soccer news from around the world
Lyon stake their claim for fifth title (Jul 31, 2005)
Four-time French champions Lyon started their new league campaign with a 2-1 win at newly promoted Le Mans. . . . more . . .
Rangers off to winning start (Jul 31, 2005)
Rangers began the defence of their Scottish Premier League title with a comfortable 3-0 win at home to Livingston. . . . more . . .
England international Owen allowed to leave Madrid: Sunday Times (Jul 31, 2005)
England striker Michael Owen, who has dropped further down Real Madrid's hierarchy after recent signings, has been allowed to leave the Spanish first division club, a Real source told the Sunday Times. . . . more . . .
Real's Brazilian duo spark Owen transfer speculation (Jul 31, 2005)
England striker Michael Owen, who has dropped further down Real Madrid's hierarchy after recent signings, will be allowed to leave the Spanish first division club. . . . more . . .
Ferguson out of sight says Mourinho (Jul 31, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has said he will never match the trophy haul of Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .
Chelsea primed for era of complete control (Jul 31, 2005)
Premiership champions Chelsea, bankrolled by Roman Abramovich's millions and inspired by Jose Mourinho, stand on the verge of dominating English football and there is nothing their rivals can do about it. . . . more . . .
Chelsea and AC Milan end US tour with draw (Jul 31, 2005)
English Premiership champions Chelsea and Italian rivals AC Milan ended their North American tour with a 1-1 draw at Giants Stadium. . . . more . . .
Woeful Celtic defending gives Strachan cause for concern (Jul 31, 2005)
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan has admitted he may bring in another defender to solve his side's problems at the back after he watched his side lose four goals to Motherwell. . . . more . . .
Stuttgart sign Dane Gronkjaer (Jul 30, 2005)
VfB Stuttgart have signed Atletico Madrid's Danish international Jesper Gronkjaer on a three-year contract. . . . more . . .
Cunningham leads MLS All-Stars over Fulham (Jul 30, 2005)
Jeff Cunningham scored two late goals and Taylor Twellman and Ronnie O'Brien tallied once each as the MLS All-Stars pulled away from English Premier League squad Fulham FC 4-1. . . . more . . .
Moore completes Newcastle move (Jul 30, 2005)
Australian skipper Craig Moore has completed his move to Newcastle on a two-year contract, the English Premiership club announced. . . . more . . .
Rooney double gives United gloss tour finish (Jul 30, 2005)
A magical double from England star Wayne Rooney handed Manchester United a 2-0 victory over Urawa Red Diamonds in the final game of their Asian tour. . . . more . . .
Celtic and Motherwell share spoils in eight goal thriller (Jul 30, 2005)
A last gasp Craig Beattie goal salvaged a point for Celtic in a thrilling 4-4 draw at Motherwell in the opening day of the Scottish Premier League. . . . more . . .
Benitez targets two recruits (Jul 30, 2005)
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has targetted a right-winger and a centre-back as he tries to boost the European champions' assault on the Premiership this season. . . . more . . .
Marseille experience a Bordeaux headache (Jul 30, 2005)
Former European Champions Marseille tripped up 2-0 at home in their opening French league match against a well organised Bordeaux side. . . . more . . .
Santos and Real agree on Robinho deal (Jul 30, 2005)
Santos have a agreed a deal which will see their Brazilian striker Robinho join Real Madrid on a five-year contract, the Spanish first division club said. . . . more . . .
Wigan fail in swoop for Jagielka (Jul 30, 2005)
Premiership newboys Wigan revealed that Sheffield United have turned down a four-million-pound bid for utility man Phil Jagielka. . . . more . . .
Ballack scores twice as Bayern beat Jubilo Iwata 3-1 in friendly (Jul 30, 2005)
Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack scored twice to give the German champions a come-from-behind 3-1 victory against J-League side Jubilo Iwata, ending their Japanese tour undefeated. . . . more . . .
Zac backs Inter and Udinese to progress (Jul 29, 2005)
Former Inter Milan and Udinese coach Alberto Zaccheroni is backing his two former clubs to reach the group stages of the Champions League despite their awkward third qualifying round draws. . . . more . . .
J-League says no evidence to support Beckham spitting claim (Jul 29, 2005)
Japanese football officials have said there is no evidence that Real Madrid star David Beckham was spat on by a Tokyo Verdy player during their match this week, a report says. . . . more . . .
Roman plans Med yacht summit to clinch Essien deal (Jul 29, 2005)
Chelsea edged closer to signing Ghana midfielder Michael Essien when Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas said he would meet the English champions' owner Roman Abramovich next week. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid round off world tour with 3-0 win (Jul 29, 2005)
Real Madrid finished their patchy pre-season world tour on a high note with a 3-0 victory over Thailand's under-23s. . . . more . . .
Liverpool striker Baros too expensive for Schalke (Jul 29, 2005)
Bundesliga runners-up Schalke 04 admit they are unlikely to sign Czech international striker Milan Baros from Liverpool claiming the seven million pound (10 million euro) asking price is too high. . . . more . . .
Everton avoid European clash with Liverpool (Jul 29, 2005)
Everton avoided a clash with Merseyside rivals Liverpool in the Champions League third qualifying round draw. . . . more . . .
PSG launch French league campaign in style (Jul 29, 2005)
A new look Paris Saint Germain side made their intentions clear with a 4-1 win over Metz in their opening French league match at the Parc Des Princes. . . . more . . .
Nakamura faces Celtic Champions League misery (Jul 29, 2005)
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan could hand Japanese playmaker Shunsuke Nakamura a thankless debut by plunging him into the team's doomed Champions League campaign. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid agree fee for Arsenal target Baptista (Jul 29, 2005)
Real Madrid have reached agreement with fellow La Liga outfit Sevilla to sign Brazilian striker Julio Cesar Baptista for 24.5 million euros (29.7 million dollars), it was confirmed. . . . more . . .
Woodgate desperate to make Real debut (Jul 29, 2005)
Injury-plagued defender Jonathan Woodgate believes he is ready to kick his first ball as a Real Madrid player and put behind him the nightmare start to his Spanish career. . . . more . . .
Rangers start new Scottish season as favourites (Jul 29, 2005)
Rangers begin the defence of their Scottish Premier League title this weekend in the position of being overwhelming favorites to clinch a 52nd championship with eternal rivals Celtic already in a slump. . . . more . . .
Chelsea beats DC United to win battle of league champions (Jul 29, 2005)
Hernan Crespo scored the winner in the 56th minute as English Premier League champion Chelsea cruised past MLS Cup winners DC United 2-1 in an international football friendly here. . . . more . . .
Czech striker Bednar joins Hearts (Jul 29, 2005)
Czech striker Roman Bednar has signed a five-year contract with Scottish side Hearts, Bednar's agent Pavel Zika said. . . . more . . .
Bayern thump FC Tokyo 4-0 in football friendly (Jul 28, 2005)
German champions Bayern Munich overwhelmed J-League club FC Tokyo 4-0 to get off to a winning start in their two-game friendly series in Japan. . . . more . . .
Money not important vows Ballack (Jul 28, 2005)
Germany captain Michael Ballack insists the colour of money will not decide whether he stays at Bayern Munich or packs his bags for a move abroad. . . . more . . .
Manchester United downed 2-1 by Japanese league leaders (Jul 28, 2005)
Manchester United slumped to the first defeat of their Asian tour with a 2-1 loss to Japanese J-League leaders Kashima Antlers. . . . more . . .
Ljungberg pens new Arsenal deal (Jul 28, 2005)
Freddie Ljungberg has signed an extension to his contract with Arsenal which will keep him at the Premiership side until 2009. . . . more . . .
Schalke stalk Liverpool's Baros (Jul 28, 2005)
Bundesliga side Schalke 04 are chasing Liverpool's Czech striker Milan Baros it was reported here. . . . more . . .
Roman's pile worries Jose (Jul 28, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho claims figuring out what to do with Roman Abramovich's pile of money makes his the hardest job in football. . . . more . . .
AC Milan douses Fire in football friendly (Jul 28, 2005)
Alberto Gilardino scored in the 76th minute and Serginho added an insurance goal in second half stoppage time to give AC Milan a 3-1 triumph over the Chicago Fire in an international football friendly here. . . . more . . .
Beckham and Real Madrid brought down to Earth in Japan (Jul 28, 2005)
Real Madrid has closed a tour of Japan with their fame on the wane, as the once invincible David Beckham left with a spat over spitting hanging over him. . . . more . . .
McCarthy ups ante in Porto face-off (Jul 28, 2005)
South Africa striker Benni McCarthy has raised the stakes in his face-off with Porto by telling the former European champions he will not renew his current contract which expires in two years. . . . more . . .
Lyon boss raises Essien stakes (Jul 28, 2005)
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas insists Chelsea will have to pay 45 million euros (32 million pounds) plus a player for Ghana international midfielder Michael Essien. . . . more . . .
Lyon president targets fifth French title (Jul 28, 2005)
French champions Lyon insist they can see off their bigger-spending rivals and lift an unprecedented fifth domestic title, the club's president said. . . . more . . .
McCann extends contract with Villa (Jul 28, 2005)
Gavin McCann has underlined his commitment to Aston Villa by signing a new three-year contract, the Premiership club announced. . . . more . . .
Brazilian football star Jaja dies (Jul 28, 2005)
Brazilian football legend Jair Rosa Pinto who was known as "Master Jaja" has died at the age of 84 at his home here after suffering from a lung related disease, local press reported. . . . more . . .
Pompey sign Zambian striker (Jul 28, 2005)
Zambian striker Collins Mbesuma completed his move to Portsmouth when the 21-year-old was granted a work permit to play in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Woodgate desperate to make Real debut (Jul 28, 2005)
Injury-plagued defender Jonathan Woodgate believes he is ready to kick his first ball as a Real Madrid player and put behind him the nightmare start to his Spanish career. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid promises goalfest in Thailand to help tsunami victims (Jul 28, 2005)
Spanish super club Real Madrid touched down in football-mad Thailand promising a goal bonanza to help tsunami survivors when they face the national under 23-side in a pre-season friendly. . . . more . . .
Bad boy Bowyer handed Newcastle lifeline (Jul 28, 2005)
Newcastle's controversial midfielder Lee Bowyer, who was involved in an ugly punch-up with teammate Kieron Dyer last season, seems set to stay at St James's Park. . . . more . . .
Aussie billionaire throws in chips with Hiddink to get Aussies to Germany (Jul 27, 2005)
Billionaire businessman Frank Lowy is taking a calculated and expensive gamble to get Australia to next year's World Cup finals in Germany by head-hunting master Dutch coach Guus Hiddink. . . . more . . .
Milito sticks with Zaragoza until 2010 (Jul 27, 2005)
Argentine defender Gabriel Milito has extended his contract with Spanish first division club Zaragoza until 2010, the club's official website stated. . . . more . . .
Disastrous debut for Strachan as Celtic boss in Champions League (Jul 27, 2005)
Gordon Strachan suffered a disastrous first competitive match as Celtic manager following their 5-0 defeat to Artmedia Bratislava in the European Champions League. . . . more . . .
Chelsea move for Essien (Jul 27, 2005)
English champions Chelsea were reported to be close to signing Ghana international Michael Essien from French champions Lyon for a club record 25 million pounds (36 million euros). . . . more . . .
Ronaldo double as Real Madrid beat Jubilo Iwata 3-1 (Jul 27, 2005)
Brazil star Ronaldo was on target twice for Real Madrid as the Spanish giants put some poor performances in Asia behind them with a 3-1 victory over Jubilo Iwata. . . . more . . .
Chelsea deny Shevchenko move (Jul 27, 2005)
English champions Chelsea have ruled a reported 60 million pound (87 million euro) bid for AC Milan's European Player of the Year Andriy Shevchenko as "totally incorrect". . . . more . . .
Stuttgart close on Dane Gronkjaer (Jul 27, 2005)
VfB Stuttgart are in talks with Atletico Madrid over Danish international Jesper Gronkjaer, the German club confirmed. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid show interest in Baptista (Jul 27, 2005)
Brazilian Striker Baptista, who refused an offer from English club Arsenal, could finally join forces with Real Madrid, Spanish newspaper Marca claims. . . . more . . .
Ballack named German Player of Year (Jul 27, 2005)
Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack picked up another accolade when he was named German Player of the Year in a poll conducted by Kicker magazine. . . . more . . .
Real sell Samuel but wait on Robinho (Jul 27, 2005)
Real Madrid have reportedly finalised the 16 million euro sale of Argentina defender Walter Samuel to Inter Milan but were waiting to hear from FIFA if their bid for Brazil striker Robinho would go through. . . . more . . .
Lyon's Carew scores hat-trick in Champions Trophy win (Jul 27, 2005)
French league champions Lyon launched their season in style after new recruit John Carew netted a hat-trick in their 4-1 Champions Trophy victory over cup winners Auxerre. . . . more . . .
City complete Vassell signing (Jul 27, 2005)
Manchester City have completed the signing of Darius Vassell from Aston Villa for 2 million pounds. . . . more . . .
Man City's Barton fined 120,000 pounds for gross misconduct (Jul 27, 2005)
Joey Barton has been fined more than 120,000 pounds (174,000 euros) by Manchester City after being sent home from his team's tour to Thailand for bad behaviour. . . . more . . .
J-League says no evidence to support Beckham spitting claim: report (Jul 27, 2005)
Japanese football officials have said there is no evidence that Real Madrid star David Beckham was spat on by a Tokyo Verdy player during their match this week, a report said. . . . more . . .
Mexican football federation fined 480,000 euros by FIFA (Jul 27, 2005)
A 480,000-euro fine has been imposed on the Mexican football federation, FIFA said in a Wednesday statement, after two players were expelled from last month's Confederations Cup following failed doping tests. . . . more . . .
Inter poised to complete Samuel transfer, Figo in talks (Jul 27, 2005)
Inter Milan have agreed a fee with Real Madrid for Argentine defender Walter Samuel and are also hoping to snap up Portuguese star Luis Figo from the Spanish giants, FIFA mediator Peppino Tirri said. . . . more . . .
Henry puts faith in Wenger (Jul 26, 2005)
Thierry Henry is confident Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger didn't make a mistake in selling captain Patrick Vieira to Juventus. . . . more . . .
Kenyan government accepts FIFA ruling is beyond them (Jul 26, 2005)
The Kenyan government accepted it was beyond their jurisdiction to make a direct appeal to FIFA against Monday's ruling that the September 2 home World Cup clash against Tunisia will be played in an empty stadium. . . . more . . .
Cypriot team cause Champions League upset in landmark grudge match (Jul 26, 2005)
Cypriot underdogs Anorthosis Famagusta caused a big upset in their European Champions League second preliminary round first leg match here by beating Turkish side Trabzonspor 3-1 in a landmark grudge match played amid tight security. . . . more . . .
Messina and Torino lose Serie A status (Jul 26, 2005)
Messina and Torino failed to overturn the Italian football federation's decision to expel them both from Serie A due to the poor state of their finances. . . . more . . .
Wigan switch for Henchoz (Jul 26, 2005)
Stephane Henchoz was to sign for Premiership newcomers Wigan after passing a medical. . . . more . . .
Portsmouth striker Kamara joins West Brom (Jul 26, 2005)
Portsmouth striker Diomansy Kamara has joined fellow Premiership side West Brom from Italian club Modena in a 1.5-million-pound (2.2-million-euro) transfer, the buying club said. . . . more . . .
Inter close to snapping up Figo and Samuel (Jul 26, 2005)
Inter Milan are reported to be on the verge of signing unsettled Real Madrid pair Luis Figo and Walter Samuel. . . . more . . .
Cyprus's image at stake in landmark grudge match (Jul 26, 2005)
Cyprus warned that the island's international reputation was at stake as fans prepared for a landmark grudge match amid tight security between Greek Cypriot club Anorthosis Famagusta and Turkish side Trabzonspor. . . . more . . .
Liverpool bounce back after early shock (Jul 26, 2005)
Champions League holders Liverpool came from behind to beat Lithuanian champions Kaunas 3-1 in their Champions League second preliminary round first leg clash. . . . more . . .
Iran's match with Millwall called off after security warning (Jul 26, 2005)
English Championship club Millwall as expected called off their match with Asian football powerhouses Iran due to be played on July 30 in the interest of public safety after the club received what it called 'intelligence... from a number of sources'. . . . more . . .
Manchester United outclasses Beijing Hyundai as tempers flare (Jul 26, 2005)
Manchester United playmaker Paul Scholes scored two goals and South Korean newboy Park Ji-Sung headed home another, as the Red Devils overpowered China's Beijing Hyundai in a club side friendly that was anything but. . . . more . . .
Spurs set to capture Dutch 'Pitbull' (Jul 26, 2005)
Veteran Dutch international midfielder Edgar Davids is set to sign for English Premiership outfit Spurs from Serie A outfit Inter Milan, the buying club announced. . . . more . . .
Nigeria FA boss blasts unprofessional' Troussier (Jul 26, 2005)
The chairman of the Nigeria Football Association (NFA), Ibrahim Galadima, has angrily reacted to Philippe Troussier's decision not to take up the appointment as the country's coach. . . . more . . .
Chelsea set to reopen Essien talks (Jul 25, 2005)
Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon has revealed that negotiations with Lyon about the transfer of Michal Essien will begin again this week. . . . more . . .
Reggina confirm Nakamura sale (Jul 25, 2005)
Serie A side Reggina have confirmed the sale of Japan international midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura to Scottish club Celtic. . . . more . . .
Newcastle takeover speculation mounts (Jul 25, 2005)
Speculation that Newcastle could soon be the subject of a takeover bid mounted when former chairman Sir John Hall was approached about selling his majority stake. . . . more . . .
Dundee relegated as Livingston fine upheld (Jul 25, 2005)
The Scottish Football Association upheld the Scottish Premier League's decision to fine Livingston over the Hassan Kachloul transfer affair. . . . more . . .
Bolton snap up Mexican striker (Jul 25, 2005)
Bolton have confirmed that Mexican striker Jared Borgetti will join the club on a two-year deal once he has passed a medical. . . . more . . .
Vassell to set sail for Manchester City (Jul 25, 2005)
England international striker Darius Vassell will be given the chance to reignite his career after Premiership club Manchester City agreed to buy him for 2.5 million pounds from rivals Aston Villa. . . . more . . .
Celtic snap up Japan international Nakamura (Jul 25, 2005)
Scottish giants Celtic have completed the signing of Japan's Shunsuke Nakamura on a three-year contract from Italian first division club Reggina. . . . more . . .
Rijkaard close to new Barca deal (Jul 25, 2005)
Frank Rijkaard is close to penning a new contract as coach of Spanish champions Barcelona, club president Joan Laporta indicated. . . . more . . .
Inter reconsider cancelled UK tour (Jul 24, 2005)
Inter Milan are reviewing their decision to call off next week's four match tour of England over safety fears sparked by the London bombings. . . . more . . .
Tottenham beat French champions Lyon (Jul 24, 2005)
Tottenham Hotspur warmed up for the new Premiership campaign with a 3-1 win over French champions Lyon in the Peace Cup final here. . . . more . . .
US squad edges Panama on penalties to win Gold Cup (Jul 24, 2005)
Santino Quaranta, Landon Donovan and Brad Davis scored on penalty kicks in a shootout to give the United States a victory over Panama in the Gold Cup football final. . . . more . . .
Shearer closes in on Newcastle goal record (Jul 23, 2005)
Veteran striker Alan Shearer moved within five goals of breaking Newcastle United's club record of 199. . . . more . . .
Barton-less Man City edge Everton on penalties (Jul 23, 2005)
Andy Cole scored on his debut for Manchester City as they beat Everton 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time to earn third place in the Premier League Asia Trophy tournament. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid scrape past Beijing Hyundai in pre-season friendly (Jul 23, 2005)
Raul, Guti and Luis Figo scored for Real Madrid as the Spanish giants did just enough to beat Beijing Hyundai 3-2 at a rain-soaked and half-empty Workers' Stadium. . . . more . . .
Barton protests his innocence (Jul 23, 2005)
Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton, who was sent home from his team's tour to Thailand, insisted that he was not involved in a fight with teammate Richard Dunne. . . . more . . .
China's Dong scores on dream debut as scratchy Man U overcome Hong Kong (Jul 23, 2005)
Chinese signing Dong Fangzhuo had a dream debut for Manchester United, with his second half goal giving the Red Devils a 2-0 win over a spirited Hong Kong as they overcame a rusty start in the opening game of their Asian tour. . . . more . . .
Troussier returns to Nigeria (Jul 23, 2005)
Philippe Troussier, released by French club Marseille at the end of last season, was named coach of Nigeria. . . . more . . .
Bolton top Thai young guns (Jul 23, 2005)
Bolton Wanderers survived a barrage by Thailand's young guns to claim the Premier League Asia Trophy with a 1-0 win. . . . more . . .
Inter Milan call off UK tour after London bomb attacks (Jul 23, 2005)
Inter Milan have cancelled their four match tour of England because of safety fears following this month's bombings in London. . . . more . . .
Rangers close door on Kyrgiakos (Jul 23, 2005)
Greece international Sotirios Kyrgiakos will not be joining Scottish champions Rangers, club chairman David Murray insisted. . . . more . . .
City send disgraced Barton out of Thailand (Jul 22, 2005)
Joey Barton, the controversial Manchester City midfielder has been thrown out of his club's tour of Thailand after an alleged altercation with a teenager in a Bangkok hotel bar. . . . more . . .
Newcastle chase Anelka (Jul 22, 2005)
Newcastle said they were chasing French striker Nicolas Anelka, who is at Turkish club Fenerbahce. . . . more . . .
Fergie praises bravery of SKorean newboy as Man U kick off Asian tour (Jul 22, 2005)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson praised South Korean newboy Park Ji-Sung and said English and European clubs could expect to see many more like him as Asian football advances. . . . more . . .
Georgian federation sack Giresse (Jul 22, 2005)
France's Alain Giresse was sacked as coach of the Georgia national team after the country's dismal performance in World Cup qualifying, the federation president Nodar Akhalkatsi said. . . . more . . .
Park determined to be huge United hit (Jul 22, 2005)
Manchester United's new South Korean import Park Ji-Sung insisted he can be a huge hit with the Old Trafford giants. . . . more . . .
Real wait on Robinho (Jul 22, 2005)
Real Madrid vice-president Emilio Butragueno said they were waiting for clearance from the Brazilian Confederation for their 30 million dollar bid for Santos striker Robinho. . . . more . . .
China's Dong to make Manchester United debut in Beijing: Ferguson (Jul 22, 2005)
Chinese signing Dong Fangzhuo will play his first game for Manchester United in Beijing next week, club boss Sir Alex Ferguson said after his team touched down in Hong Kong to begin their Asian tour. . . . more . . .
Wenger confident on Pires and Baptista (Jul 22, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said he is quietly confident that Robert Pires will not follow Patrick Vieira out of Arsenal this summer and that he can still sign Brazilian striker Julio Baptista from Spanish side Real Sevilla. . . . more . . .
Pompey agree deal for Westerveld (Jul 22, 2005)
Former Liverpool goalkeeper Sander Westerveld has agreed a deal to return to the Premiership to play for Portsmouth, the south coast club said. . . . more . . .
Hiddink warns Australia his coaching appointment is no World Cup guarantee (Jul 22, 2005)
Dutch coach Guus Hiddink has warned Australia his appointment as their national football coach is no guarantee they would realise their dream of qualifying for next year's World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Cyprus braces for landmark grudge match with Turkish club (Jul 22, 2005)
Cyprus unveiled a massive security operation and appealed for restraint from fans after league champions Anorthosis set up a first ever football clash with a Turkish side in the second qualifying round of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Roma reeling as player ban is upheld (Jul 22, 2005)
Roma's plans for the forthcoming season were dealt a massive blow after their appeal to have their ban on buying players failed. . . . more . . .
Newcastle chase Anelka and Boa Morte (Jul 22, 2005)
Newcastle United boss Graeme Souness admitted that he had made formal offers for Nicolas Anelka and Luis Boa Morte in an effort to boost his team's prospects this season. . . . more . . .
FFA officials non-commital as Hiddink confirms he'll coach Socceroos (Jul 21, 2005)
Football Federation Australia (FFA) officials were saying nothing amid reports that Dutchman Guus Hiddink had confirmed he would be the next Australian coach. . . . more . . .
Italian Zenga to coach Red Star Belgrade (Jul 21, 2005)
Former Italian goalkeeper Walter Zenga is set to become Red Star Belgrade's first foreign coach, the Serbian club's officials said. . . . more . . .
Robinho joins Real Madrid for 30 million dollars (Jul 21, 2005)
Real Madrid confirmed it had signed Braziian international striker Robinho from Santos for a fee in the region of 30 million dollars. . . . more . . .
Asian tour perfect pre-season tonic for Red Devils: Neville (Jul 21, 2005)
Pre-season tours of Asia are often written off as cynical exercises designed to boost Premiership clubs' financial reserves while simultaneously draining their players' of valuable physical resources. . . . more . . .
Euro star Zagorakis returns to PAOK Salonika (Jul 21, 2005)
Theo Zagorakis, who skippered Greece to the Euro 2004 title, has signed a two-year contract with his former PAOK Salonika team, the Greek first division squad announced. . . . more . . .
Italian defender Pistone back at Everton (Jul 21, 2005)
Italian defender Alessandro Pistone has re-signed for Everton left than a month after he left the Premiership club. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand won't quit United (Jul 21, 2005)
Rio Ferdinand's agent insists the England star will be staying at Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Injury doubt for Beckham ahead of Beijing match (Jul 21, 2005)
A niggling hamstring injury could keep star attraction David Beckham out of Real Madrid's friendly against Beijing Hyundai on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Fergie looking forward to seeing the sights in Beijing (Jul 21, 2005)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson can't wait to get to China where the Red Devils play local team Beijing Hyundai next week, not so much for the match but the sightseeing. . . . more . . .
Zaragoza resist Liverpool bid for Milito (Jul 21, 2005)
Liverpool's bid to land Real Zaragoza defender Gabriel Milito has run into stiff opposition from the Spanish club. . . . more . . .
Mexican police hunt for abducted coach (Jul 21, 2005)
Mexican police are hunting for the Argentine coach of one of the country's biggest football clubs. . . . more . . .
Lazio sign Albanian striker Tare (Jul 21, 2005)
Serie A side Lazio completed the signing of Albanian international Igli Tare from Bologna. . . . more . . .
Australia to announce new coach with Hiddink expected to get job (Jul 21, 2005)
The Football Federation Australia (FFA) has called a press conference with Dutchman Guus Hiddink expected to be announced as the next Australian coach. . . . more . . .
Sale of Dutch duo key to Inter's Figo swoop (Jul 21, 2005)
Inter Milan are still hopeful of signing Real Madrid's unsettled Portuguese star Luis Figo. . . . more . . .
Germany striker Hanke handed two-match ban for World Cup finals (Jul 21, 2005)
Germany international striker Mike Hanke, sent off during the third-place play-off in the Confederations Cup last month, has been suspended for the first two matches of the 2006 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Fearless Gilardino ready for bigger stage (Jul 21, 2005)
Italy international Alberto Gilardino said he would be able to cope with the pressure of playing for AC Milan. . . . more . . .
Premier League backing for GB Olympic team (Jul 21, 2005)
English Premier League officials have backed a Great Britain football team competing at the 2012 London Olympics. . . . more . . .
Leicester fume over Aussie's broken leg (Jul 21, 2005)
Leicester City manager boss Craig Levein believes Celtic's Bobo Balde went out of his way to hurt Australian teenager James Wesolowski in a scoreless friendly draw on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Bayern back in black (Jul 21, 2005)
German champions Bayern Munich had record turnover of 180 millions euros for the 2004/2005 season, a 12 percent increase on the previous season. . . . more . . .
Larsson to sign for two more years at Barcelona (Jul 20, 2005)
Swedish international striker Henrik Larsson has agreed to play at FC Barcelona for another two years. . . . more . . .
Rooney denies rift with Ferguson (Jul 20, 2005)
England striker Wayne Rooney insisted that he had not fallen out with Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson after travelling home alone following the club's friendly at Clyde. . . . more . . .
Gerrard rescues Liverpool again (Jul 20, 2005)
Steven Gerrard scored two goals inside sixty seconds to secure a flattering 3-0 victory for Liverpool against Welsh minnows Total Network Solutions in the Champions League first qualifying round second leg. . . . more . . .
Vigo chase United's Kleberson (Jul 20, 2005)
Spanish side Celta Vigo are in talks with Manchester United over Brazilian midfielder Kleberson. . . . more . . .
Newcastle newboy Emre offers attacks sympathy (Jul 20, 2005)
Turkish midfielder Emre was unveiled as a Newcastle player and immediately offered his condolences over the London and Turkey bomb attacks. . . . more . . .
Around the world in 50 days for the Kaiser's charm offensive (Jul 20, 2005)
The President of the 2006 World Cup Committee, Franz Beckenbauer announced his intention to visit all 31 of the nations which will have qualified for the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Argentinian ace Placente signs for Celta (Jul 20, 2005)
Argentinian international defender Diego Placente left Bayer Leverkusen in Germany to join Celta Vigo in Spain's first division on a three-year deal. . . . more . . .
Fulham lose Tigana appeal (Jul 20, 2005)
French coach Jean Tigana has won his case against his former club Fulham at the Court of Appeal in London after the English Premier League side accused him of receiving commissions from over-valued transfer fees. . . . more . . .
Cole completes Manchester City switch (Jul 20, 2005)
Former England striker Andrew Cole completed his free transfer to Manchester City from English Premiership rivals Fulham. . . . more . . .
Knee injury sidelines Honduran midfielder for Fulham clash (Jul 20, 2005)
Amado Guevara, a Honduran midfielder and captain of Major League Soccer's MetroStars, is expected to be out for three to five weeks with a left knee injury. . . . more . . .
German captain Ballack considers his future (Jul 20, 2005)
Germany captain Michael Ballack, whose contract with Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich runs till 2006, said he would take his time considering his future. . . . more . . .
Thailand stun Everton, Bolton top Man City in Asia friendlies (Jul 20, 2005)
Thailand pulled off a penalty shootout upset over Champions League contenders Everton while Bolton Wanderers similarly dispatched rivals Manchester City in the Premier League Asia Trophy tournament. . . . more . . .
Dutchman Hiddink "99 percent sure" as next Australia coach (Jul 20, 2005)
Australian football chief John O'Neill has virtually confirmed that Dutchman Guus Hiddink will be the next coach of Australia's national team, saying he is "99 percent sure" the PSV Eindhoven coach will sign a contract in the coming days. . . . more . . .
Lyon boss calls on Chelsea to show him the money (Jul 20, 2005)
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has again dared Chelsea to come up with 45 million euros (32 million pounds) if they want Ghana midfielder Michael Essien. . . . more . . .
Thailand stun Everton, win on penalties in Asia friendly (Jul 20, 2005)
Thailand pulled off a 6-4 penalty shootout upset over Champions League contenders Everton in the opening match of the Premier League Asia Trophy tournament. . . . more . . .
De Lucas and Chelsea reach out of court settlement (Jul 20, 2005)
Reigning English Champions Chelsea have reached an out-of-court settlement with Spanish midfielder Enrique De Lucas after the English club terminated his contract in 2003, according to a joint public statement. . . . more . . .
Crouch gives Benitez attacking edge (Jul 20, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez believes beanpole striker Peter Crouch will give him the attacking options to make a challenge for major honours next season. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo set to close door on Brazil career after 2006 World Cup (Jul 20, 2005)
Star striker Ronaldo says he could call it a day for Brazil after the 2006 World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Dutchman Hiddink "99 percent sure" as next Australia coach: official (Jul 20, 2005)
Australian football chief John O'Neill has virtually confirmed that Dutchman Guus Hiddink will be the next coach of Australia's national team, saying he is "99 percent sure" the PSV Eindhoven coach will sign a contract in the coming days. . . . more . . .
Guti fancies Arsenal move (Jul 20, 2005)
Real Madrid midfielder Guti is keen on a move to Arsenal if he leaves the Spanish giants. . . . more . . .
European clubs head east with one goal in mind: Asian dollars (Jul 20, 2005)
European football clubs are heading to Asia in unprecedented numbers but experts are questioning how much success they are having in tapping this vast market. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko pledges future to AC Milan (Jul 20, 2005)
AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko has pledged his future to the Italian club despite his recent spat with coach Carlo Ancelotti. . . . more . . .
Anderlecht sign Proto-type goalkeeper (Jul 19, 2005)
Belgian international goalkeeper Silvio Proto signed for Belgian league giants Anderlecht from rivals La Louviere on a five year contract. . . . more . . .
Newcastle sign young Dutch keeper (Jul 19, 2005)
Newcastle have signed young goalkeeper Tim Krul on a three-year deal from Dutch club Den Haag. . . . more . . .
Gerrard rescues Liverpool again (Jul 19, 2005)
Steven Gerrard scored two goals inside sixty seconds to secure a flattering 3-0 victory for Liverpool against Welsh minnows Total Network Solutions in the Champions League first qualifying round second leg. . . . more . . .
Liverpool win battle to sign Crouch (Jul 19, 2005)
Champions League titleholders Liverpool have won the battle to sign highly-rated England striker Peter Crouch from relegated Southampton. . . . more . . .
Petrov returns to Atletico (Jul 19, 2005)
German Bundesliga club VfL Wolfsburg announced their Bulgarian international striker Martin Petrov had returned to his former club Atletico Madrid for a transfer fee believed to be around 10 million euros. . . . more . . .
Cruz Azul coach kidnapped (Jul 19, 2005)
The Argentinian coach of Mexican First Division giants Cruz Azul was kidnapped, the club vice-president announced. . . . more . . .
Ancelotti dismisses talk of Shevchenko rift (Jul 19, 2005)
AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has dismissed talk that he has fallen out with the club's leading striker Andriy Shevchenko. . . . more . . .
London club set to call off Iran match over bombing avenge fears (Jul 19, 2005)
English second division club Millwall are considering calling off a scheduled match with the Iranian national team because it was feared the game will be targeted by far right extremists. . . . more . . .
Chelsea hopeful of snaring Lyon's Essien (Jul 19, 2005)
Chelsea still hope to sign Lyon midfielder Michael Essien despite being told by the French champions they must pay 32 million pounds (46 million euros). . . . more . . .