Archive soccer news from around the world
Gomes returns to Portuguese fold (Sep 30, 2005)
Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari recalled Benfica striker Nuno Gomes, who scored five goals during his last two Portuguese league matches, for next month's key World Cup qualifying matches against Liechtenstein and Latvia. . . . more . . .
Arsenal injury worries pile up (Sep 30, 2005)
Dennis Bergkamp and Gilberto are doubtful for Arsenal's English Premiership game against Birmingham City on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Fowler escapes knife (Sep 30, 2005)
Robbie Fowler is facing an extended lay-off as he recovers from a back problem but the former Liverpool and England striker has been told he will not need surgery, as had been feared. . . . more . . .
Davids called up for World Cup qualifiers (Sep 30, 2005)
Tottenham midfielder Edgar Davids figures in the Netherlands' squad for next month's final World Cup qualifiers named by manager Marco van Basten. . . . more . . .
Beckenbauer heads for Iran, Saudi Arabia and Asia on pre-World Cup tour (Sep 30, 2005)
Franz Beckenbauer, the head of the organising committee for the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany, sets off on Sunday on the first leg of a globe-trotting tour which will eventually see him visit all 32 of the countries qualified. . . . more . . .
Gerrard urges Reds to go for the Chelsea jugular (Sep 30, 2005)
Steven Gerrard has called on his Liverpool team-mates to go for Chelsea's jugular in Sunday's Premiership showdown at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Rangers Euro defeat can help title push says Ricksen (Sep 30, 2005)
Rangers Dutch defender Fernando Ricksen believes the Ibrox side's improved performance in their 1-0 defeat away to Inter Milan can help revive their Scottish Premier League challenge. . . . more . . .
Arsenal player cleared of rape (Sep 30, 2005)
Arsenal goalkeeper Graham Stack has been cleared of raping a 22-year-old girl at his home by a jury at Croydon Crown Court. . . . more . . .
Liverpool offer fresh hope to chasing pack (Sep 30, 2005)
Singing the praises of Liverpool is not something that comes naturally in the environs of Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Bucharest challenge send Everton's Arteta to hospital (Sep 30, 2005)
Everton have hit out at Dinamo Bucharest after a violent challenge sent Mikel Arteta to hospital. . . . more . . .
Wounded Bayern ready to bite back against Wolves (Sep 30, 2005)
Bayern Munich have been hailed 'invincible' after churning out a record 15 consecutive league wins but SV Hamburg's 2-0 win last Saturday has disproved that theory and injected some much-needed excitement into the Bundesliga. . . . more . . .
Benitez claims Chelsea running scared (Sep 30, 2005)
Rafael Benitez has fanned the flames of Liverpool's increasingly bitter rivalry with Chelsea by claiming that the Premiership champions are running scared of his side. . . . more . . .
Leaders Celta face stiff test at Cadiz (Sep 30, 2005)
Few would have predicted that Celta Vigo would be the Spanish league leaders after the opening month of the season but the Galician club are hoping to consolidate pole position at Cadiz on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Coach predicts greater things from Yorke in Australian A-League (Sep 30, 2005)
Former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke is poised for greater things in Australia's new A-League football series, his Sydney FC coach Pierre Littbarski said. . . . more . . .
Lyon return to the domestic stage (Sep 30, 2005)
Lyon, who top their Champions League group after a midweek win over Dutch side Rosenborg, return to their quest for a fifth straight title at struggling Rennes this weekend. . . . more . . .
Irreplaceable Keane set to finish career at Celtic (Sep 30, 2005)
Roy Keane looks set to finish his illustrious playing career at Scottish side Celtic after announcing that he plans to leave Manchester United at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
No place safe in South Korean team: Advocaat (Sep 30, 2005)
Dutchman Dick Advocaat, with just eight months to prepare South Korea for next World Cup, warned his players that nobody had a guaranteed place in the squad for the 2006 finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Greek call for firepower to boost World Cup bid (Sep 30, 2005)
Greece coach Otto Rehhagel named a 23-man squad for the key World Cup 2006 qualifying matches against Denmark away, on October 8, and Georgia at home, on October 12. . . . more . . .
Ferdinand urges Roy Keane to stay (Sep 30, 2005)
England international defender Rio Ferdinand has urged his Manchester United team-mate Roy Keane to go back on his decision to leave the Premiership club at the end of the season. . . . more . . .
Pearce backs no-show Thatcher for Wales (Sep 30, 2005)
Manchester City manager Stuart Pearce came to the defence of defender Ben Thatcher by inisting he has an international future despite pulling out of Wales' World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Rooney will learn from mistakes, says Sven (Sep 30, 2005)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson believes fiery striker Wayne Rooney will learn from his mistakes and that any attempts to defuse the player's temperament will destroy his impact. . . . more . . .
Rooney set for ref reunion (Sep 29, 2005)
Wayne Rooney is set to be reunited with his least favourite referee, Kim Milton Nielsen, after the Dane was put in charge of England's October 12 World Cup qualifier against Poland. . . . more . . .
Keane set to quit United (Sep 29, 2005)
Roy Keane stunned Manchester United when he announced he wanted to leave Old Trafford and play for another club next year. . . . more . . .
Bucharest challenge send Everton's Arteta to hospital (Sep 29, 2005)
Everton have hit out at Dinamo Bucharest after a violent challenge sent Mikel Arteta to hospital. . . . more . . .
Advocaat takes the reins in South Korea (Sep 29, 2005)
Dutchman Dick Advocaat was upbeat as he arrived in South Korea to take over the national side in the run-up to next year's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Gomez scores winner as Galaxy clinches US Open Cup title (Sep 29, 2005)
Herculez Gomez scored the winner in the Los Angeles Galaxy's 1-0 US Open Cup final win over FC Dallas at The Home Depot Center. . . . more . . .
FIFA's retail licensee to relocate to Singapore from London (Sep 29, 2005)
The company that manages FIFA's global retail empire said it will transfer its world headquarters to Singapore from London later this year before its commercial rollout in 2007. . . . more . . .
Spurs boss looks for creativity (Sep 29, 2005)
Tottenham manager Martin Jol believes he has sorted out his defence and midfield but admits his misfiring attack will need to show more bite when they face surprise Premiership challengers Charlton on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Few surprises in Switzerland squad for France, Ireland (Sep 29, 2005)
There were few surprises as Switzerland coach Koebi Kuhn named his squad for their last two World Cup qualifiers against France and Ireland - except for the absence of Hakan Yakin. . . . more . . .
Moyes challenges players to complete mission impossible (Sep 29, 2005)
David Moyes has challenged his Everton squad to turn their season around by overturning a 5-1 deficit to Dinamo Bucharest in the UEFA Cup first round second leg at Goodison Park. . . . more . . .
Everton crash out of UEFA Cup as Bolton celebrate first European win (Sep 29, 2005)
Everton's hopes of staging a stirring European fightback never materialised as they beat Dynamo Bucharest 1-0 but lost 5-2 on aggregate to the Romanian club in the first round of the UEFA Cup. . . . more . . .
Fulham put final touch to ending 40-year United drought (Sep 29, 2005)
Fulham manager Chris Coleman has been spending the week putting the final touch to what he hopes will produce the first home win over Manchester United in 40 years. . . . more . . .
Thatcher facing Wales exile after Toshack row (Sep 29, 2005)
Manchester City defender Ben Thatcher is set to join former Wales team-mate Robbie Savage in the international wilderness after a bust-up with national coach John Toshack led him to pull out of the squad for World Cup qualifiers next month. . . . more . . .
Hendrie under the knife (Sep 29, 2005)
Midfielder Lee Hendrie has been forced to have knee surgery, adding to Aston Villa's mounting injury problems. . . . more . . .
Raul's 50th while Milan's generosity comes back to haunt them (Sep 29, 2005)
Raul became the first player to rack up 50 goals in the Champions League as the Real Madrid star helped his side to a hard fought 2-1 victory over Greek side Olympiakos. . . . more . . .
Nike hauled into Paris fraud probe (Sep 29, 2005)
Prosecutors investigating alleged financial irregularities at French first division club Paris St Germain were reported to have widened their enquiry to take in sports goods giant Nike. . . . more . . .
Bolton celebrate first European win (Sep 29, 2005)
Bolton secured their first ever win in Europe when beating Lokomotiv Plovdiv 2-1 in the UEFA Cup. . . . more . . .
Eriksson says he still has support of players (Sep 28, 2005)
Under-fire England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson has insisted he still has the support of the players despite the suggestion of rifts within the England squad. . . . more . . .
Top flight defender appeals drug ban in Spain (Sep 28, 2005)
Everton Giovanella, veteran defender with Spanish first division high flyers Celta Vigo, is to appeal a looming two-year ban he faces for testing positive for nandrolone, his club said. . . . more . . .
Goalless deadlock in all-English Champions League clash (Sep 28, 2005)
European champions Liverpool earned a crucial point against Premiership champions Chelsea as the all-English Champions League showdown ended in a goalless stalemate at Anfield. . . . more . . .
Pizarro's lucky strike sinks Rangers (Sep 28, 2005)
David Pizarro's heavily deflected free-kick gave Inter Milan a 1-0 win over Glasgow Rangers in their behind-closed-doors Champions League clash. . . . more . . .
Malaria hits Pompey star (Sep 28, 2005)
Portsmouth will be without striker Tresor Lomana Lua Lua for several weeks after he was confined to a hospital isolation unit with malaria. . . . more . . .
Benitez confident Reds can derail Chelsea steamroller (Sep 28, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez insisted his side can become the first this season to halt Chelsea's Premiership juggernaut after stopping them from winning in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Bayern plotting European revenge against Juventus (Sep 28, 2005)
German champions Bayern Munich admit they are psyched up for the next Champions League match with Juventus on October 18 with the painful memory of last season still fresh in their minds. . . . more . . .
Cruz and Solari off the hook as wasteful Inter edge Rangers (Sep 28, 2005)
Inter Milan's Argentine pair Julio Cruz and Santiago Solari both breathed a sigh of relief after their team's 1-0 win over Glasgow Rangers in their behind-closed-doors Champions League match. . . . more . . .
Fenerbahce sail past ten-men PSV (Sep 28, 2005)
Turkish champions Fenerbahce were back in the chase after a double from Brazilian midfielder Alex inspired them to a 3-0 victory over ten-man PSV Eindhoven and garner their first three points in the Champions League this season. . . . more . . .
Chelsea seek vengeance for 'goal that never was' (Sep 28, 2005)
John Terry's last visit to Anfield ended with him slumped on a bench in the away team's changing room, a towel draped over his head as he wept tears of frustration. . . . more . . .
Mancini fears fan ban will play into Rangers' hands (Sep 28, 2005)
Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini believes the spectator ban at the San Siro could work in Glasgow Rangers' favour in behind-closed-doors Group H Champions League clash. . . . more . . .
Ferguson confident United future in safe hands (Sep 28, 2005)
Under-fire Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is confident the club's future is in good hands after a very youthful side delivered an important Champions League victory over Benfica. . . . more . . .
Under-fire Austria football coach Krankl resigns (Sep 28, 2005)
Austria coach Hans Krankl resigned, two days after the Austrian football federation announced that his contract would not be renewed after the last two qualifing matches for the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
McNamara ruled out of key qualifiers for Scotland (Sep 28, 2005)
Experienced Wolves defender Jackie McNamara has been ruled out of Scotland's World Cup qualifiers against Belarus and Slovenia next month. . . . more . . .
Bayern lose Lizarazu for three weeks (Sep 28, 2005)
German champions Bayern Munich have lost the services of French defender Bixente Lizarazu for at least three weeks with a calf complaint. . . . more . . .
Defensive lapses again as Milan pegged back by Schalke (Sep 28, 2005)
AC Milan threw away a three goal lead in last season's Champions League final defeat by Liverpool and the problem does not seem to be solved with Schalke 04 twice coming from behind to secure a 2-2 draw in their Champions League Group E match. . . . more . . .
AC Milan hope experience counts in large amounts (Sep 28, 2005)
Last season's finalists AC Milan hope to get an early stranglehold on Champions League Group E when they travel to German side Schalke 04. . . . more . . .
Real's Raul gets 50th goal but Soldado's first wins the points (Sep 28, 2005)
Real Madrid have never been beaten in their Santiago Bernabeu by a Greek side and they kept their streak alive with a 2-1 win over Olympiakos in the Champions league group F encounter. . . . more . . .
Veteran Worns extends Dortmund stay (Sep 28, 2005)
German international defender Christian Worns has agreed a one-year extension to his contract at Borussia Dortmund binding him to the Westfalen Stadium until June 2007. . . . more . . .
Sol steadies Arsenal ship and sets sights on England recall (Sep 28, 2005)
Sol Campbell celebrated re-establishing himself as Arsenal's defensive rock by calling on Sven-Goran Eriksson to hand him back his slot at the heart of England's defence. . . . more . . .
Cris gives Lyon the nod over Rosenborg (Sep 28, 2005)
Lyon made it two wins out of two as a header by Brazilian defender Cris gave the French side a 1-0 victory over Rosenborg in their Champions League Group F clash. . . . more . . .
FIFA warns over Internet 'phishing' scam (Sep 27, 2005)
FIFA warned that its name is being abused in an Internet scam involving "phishing," the illegal use of account holders' details, obtained and generally used online. . . . more . . .
Murphy may earn recall says England assistant manager (Sep 27, 2005)
England assistant manager Tord Grip believes Charlton's Danny Murphy may be recalled for next month's qualifiers against Austria and Poland. . . . more . . .
French star Sagnol bids 'au revoir' to Bayern (Sep 27, 2005)
French international defender Willy Sagnol has confirmed that he will be leaving Bayern Munich at the end of the season after turning down a four-year contract extension. . . . more . . .
Italian football chiefs try to resolve Iaquinta case (Sep 27, 2005)
The Italian football federation (FIGC) are trying to find a solution to the onging row between Udinese and their unsettled striker Vincenzo Iaquinta. . . . more . . .
Juventus too strong for Rapid (Sep 27, 2005)
Juventus beat Rapid Vienna 3-0 to make it two wins out of two in Group A of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Panathinaikos get off the mark against Werder Bremen (Sep 27, 2005)
Panathinaikos scored two early goals and held on to defeat Werder Bremen 2-1 in a Group C Champions League match at the Athens Olympic Stadium. . . . more . . .
Bayern celebrate victory in European bow at new Arena (Sep 27, 2005)
German champions Bayern Munich put themselves in a commanding position to qualify from Champions League Group A with a 1-0 home win over FC Bruges. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho hat-trick gives Barca edge over Udinese (Sep 27, 2005)
A hat-trick from Brazilian star Ronaldinho helped Barcelona to a 4-1 victory over Italian side Udinese in their Champions League Group C clash. . . . more . . .
Mourinho fans flames ahead of Liverpool clash (Sep 27, 2005)
Jose Mourinho fanned the flames ahead of Chelsea's Champions League clash with Liverpool by claiming the Merseyside team were not the best team in Europe last season despite their triumph in the continent's premier competition. . . . more . . .
Dropped Worns furious at Klinsmann (Sep 27, 2005)
Borussia Dortmund defender Christian Worns has launched a scathing attack on Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann for leaving him out of the 21-man squad for the country's next two friendly matches. . . . more . . .
Queiroz slams stupid Old Trafford fans (Sep 27, 2005)
Manchester United assistant manager Carlos Queiroz has slammed the fans who booed manager Alex Ferguson off the pitch after their 2-1 defeat to Blackburn as stupid. . . . more . . .
English giants face tricky ties in Champions League (Sep 27, 2005)
English giants Manchester United and Arsenal, both struggling for form in the Premiership, face tough games in the second round of group matches in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Bayern begin European era at Allianz Arena (Sep 27, 2005)
Bayern Munich were well below par as their perfect start to the season was shattered by a 2-0 defeat to SV Hamburg on the weekend and are hoping for a much-improved performance in the Champions League match against Bruges. . . . more . . .
Fergie determined to ride out storm (Sep 27, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson defiantly insisted that Manchester United's fans would rally behind him and his team when they face Benfica in the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Baldini replaces Gregucci as Lecce coach (Sep 27, 2005)
Silvio Baldini was named as the new coach of struggling Serie A side Lecce. . . . more . . .
United in ruder health after late winner (Sep 27, 2005)
Ruud van Nistelrooy's scrambled 85th minute goal earned Manchester United a much-needed 2-1 victory against Portugal's Benfica at Old Trafford in their Champions League clash. . . . more . . .
Below strength Arsenal too good for Ajax (Sep 27, 2005)
Arsenal moved closer to the Champions League knockout stages with a 2-1 win over Ajax. . . . more . . .
Thun on song as they beat Sparta Prague (Sep 27, 2005)
Tournament minnows FC Thun of Switzerland notched up a wonderful win with a last minute goal in their Champions League encounter with Sparta Prague. . . . more . . .
FIFA suspends Brazilian referee in match-fixing scandal (Sep 27, 2005)
Football's world governing body FIFA has suspended Brazilian referee Edilson Pereira de Carvalho, who is subject of a police probe into fixing matches in Brazil. . . . more . . .
Kahn tells Hamburg to tone down celebrations (Sep 26, 2005)
Bayern Munich goalkeeper Oliver Kahn has told SV Hamburg not to get carried away by their 2-0 win on Saturday claiming the title will still end up in the Bayern trophy cabinet. . . . more . . .
Fallen giants Hamburg resurface (Sep 26, 2005)
SV Hamburg used to be the dominant force in German football winning three domestic titles in five years (1979, 82, 83) and lifting the 1983 European Cup for good measure. . . . more . . .
Forgotten man Metzelder gets German call up (Sep 26, 2005)
After two-and-a-half years in the international wilderness Borussia Dortmund defender Christoph Metzelder has been recalled to the Germany squad for the upcoming friendly matches with Turkey on October 8 and China four days later. . . . more . . .
Zimbabwe wants its soccer 'boys' missing in Britain back (Sep 26, 2005)
Zimbabwean soccer officials have appealed to eight club players who went missing after a tour in Britain to return home, saying their careers could end if they failed to comply. . . . more . . .
Everton boss handed dreaded vote of confidence (Sep 26, 2005)
Under-fire Everton boss David Moyes has received the dreaded vote of confidence from his employers despite the Goodison Park outfit slumping to the foot of the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Lampard targets Arsenal record (Sep 26, 2005)
Chelsea's England midfielder Frank Lampard believes his teammates can beat Arsenal's 49-game unbeaten league run in the Premiership. . . . more . . .
Police arrest 74 Indonesian football fans after championship melee (Sep 26, 2005)
Indonesian police said they had arrested more than 70 people for arson and vandalism after football fans went on the rampage when their team lost a national championship in the capital. . . . more . . .
Brazil's Bonamigo takes over at Maritimo (Sep 26, 2005)
Portuguese first-division strugglers Maritimo Funchal have appointed Brazilian Paulo Bonamigo as their new coach. . . . more . . .
Adriano extends Inter Milan contract (Sep 26, 2005)
Brazil international Adriano has extended his contract with Inter Milan by two years till 2010, the Italian first division club revealed. . . . more . . .
Under-fire Fergie determined to ride out storm (Sep 26, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson defiantly insisted that Manchester United's fans would rally behind him and his team when they face Benfica in Tuesday's Champions League clash. . . . more . . .
Spurs up to fourth after derby win (Sep 26, 2005)
Tottenham bounced back from last week's ignomious League Cup exit with a 1-0 win over London rivals Fulham that lifted Martin Jol's side to fourth in the Premiership table. . . . more . . .
Bergkamp misses out on Ajax return (Sep 26, 2005)
Injury has denied Arsenal striker Dennis Bergkamp the chance of an emotional return to his former club Ajax for Tuesday's Champions League encounter. . . . more . . .
Lennon assures bright future as Spurs rise to fourth (Sep 26, 2005)
Tottenham manager Martin Jol is backing Aaron Lennon to be a major star after the teenage winger produced a man-of-the-match performance in the 1-0 win over Fulham that lifted Spurs to fourth in the Premiership table. . . . more . . .
Viennese waltz no guarantee warns Juve great Bettega (Sep 26, 2005)
Juventus will be looking to extend their flawless record at home to Austrian clubs in Europe when they host Rapid Vienna in their second Champions League first phase match. . . . more . . .
Kewell and Moore in Australian squad for Jamaican friendly (Sep 26, 2005)
Harry Kewell and Craig Moore were included in a 25-man training squad ahead of Australia's football friendly with Jamaica in London on October 9. . . . more . . .
Contract offer for injured Czech star Koller (Sep 26, 2005)
Borussia Dortmund have offered Czech international Jan Koller the chance to sign a new contract at the club just two days after the striker sustained a serious cruciate ligament injury. . . . more . . .
Zidane in possible Champions League return (Sep 26, 2005)
Real Madrid's midfield maestro Zinedine Zidane may be fit for Wednesday's Champions League Group F home game against Greeks Olympiakos after being out of action for the last three weeks. . . . more . . .
Austria football coach Krankl sacked (Sep 26, 2005)
Austria coach Hans Krankl has been sacked after the country's failure to qualify for next year's World Cup finals, the Austrian football federation revealed. . . . more . . .
Wenger makes his point (Sep 25, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has called for a change in the points system to encourage English Premiership teams to play more attacking football. . . . more . . .
Rafa confident wasteful Reds on right track (Sep 25, 2005)
Rafael Benitez has insisted Liverpool are making progress despite his frustration over the missed chances that cost his side victory at Birmingham. . . . more . . .
Rangers already struggling to retain title admits McLeish (Sep 25, 2005)
Rangers manager Alex McLeish admitted his side have no "margin for error" if they want to retain their Scottish Premier League title. . . . more . . .
Inevitable goal no source of concern for Mourinho (Sep 25, 2005)
Chelsea may have finally conceded a goal -- but manager Jose Mourinho admitted he could scarcely complain as Arsenal and Manchester United both lost further ground on the champions. . . . more . . .
Champagne start as Nakata lights up Premiership (Sep 25, 2005)
Japan midfielder Hidetoshi Nakata was celebrating a stellar performance as his new club Bolton Wanderers moved up to third in the English Premiership. . . . more . . .
Wenger refuses to throw in the towel (Sep 25, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is refusing to accept that the Premiership title race is over, despite seeing his team slip another two points behind Chelsea following a goalless draw at West Ham. . . . more . . .
Ferguson admits United are in trouble (Sep 25, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson admitted his Manchester United side face a daunting task to make up the 10-point gap on English Premiership leaders Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Sir Alex questions Chelsea's admission prices (Sep 25, 2005)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has questioned Chelsea's admission prices at Stamford Bridge and wants a ceiling imposed on the cost of buying a ticket for a Premiership game. . . . more . . .
Dein hopeful of keeping 'priceless' Henry (Sep 25, 2005)
Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein said he was quietly confident Thierry Henry would see out his career at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Lazio end Palermo's unbeaten run in Rome thriller (Sep 25, 2005)
Lazio fought back from two goals down to win 4-2 against Palermo at the Olympic stadium. . . . more . . .
Sunderland end long victory wait (Sep 25, 2005)
Sunderland moved off the bottom of the Premiership after a 2-0 win at north-east rivals Middlesbrough, their first win in the top flight in 27 games. . . . more . . .
Tomasson strikes to give Trap breathing space (Sep 25, 2005)
Danish international Jon-Dahl Tomasson scored his fourth goal of the season to guide VfB Stuttgart to a 1-0 win over Kaiserslautern. . . . more . . .
Right says Fred as Lyon stay top (Sep 25, 2005)
Defending champions Lyon opened up a four-point gap at the top of the French championship when Brazilian Fred struck the only goal in a 1-0 win at Nantes. . . . more . . .
Quickfire Martins lifts Inter up to second (Sep 25, 2005)
Obafemi Martins scored the only goal as Inter Milan beat Fiorentina 1-0 to climb up to second in Serie A. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo double erases Real troubles as Celta stay top (Sep 25, 2005)
Ronaldo returned to the type of form that won him three World Player of the Year awards by getting two goals in Real Madrid's emphatic 3-0 victory at bottom club Alaves. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo double helps erase Real troubles (Sep 25, 2005)
Ronaldo returned to the type of form that won him three World Player of the Year awards by getting two goals in Real Madrid's emphatic 3-0 victory at bottom club Alaves. . . . more . . .
Italian and English FA to share views on combating football violence (Sep 25, 2005)
The presidents of the Italian and English Football Associations will host a seminar at the British Embassy here on Monday about the ongoing fight against hooliganism. . . . more . . .
Lyon's pretenders jostle for position (Sep 24, 2005)
The weekend's flagship match in France pits Paris Saint Germain, lying second two points off champions Lyon, against promoted Le Mans, flying high in third. . . . more . . .
Frustrated Arsenal held by Hammers (Sep 24, 2005)
Arsenal's hopes of providing a serious challenge to English Premiership champions Chelsea looked even more remote after a goalless draw against West Ham at Upton Park. . . . more . . .
Reds seek return of devilish cutting edge (Sep 24, 2005)
Paul Scholes has warned that anything less than a victory over Blackburn could be fatal to Manchester United's hopes of clawing the Premiership title back from Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Barca put their best foot forward at Betis (Sep 24, 2005)
The spotlight has been Real Madrid's troubles in recent weeks but fellow Spanish giants Barcelona have had problems of their own which the reigning champions hope to address at Real Betis this weekend. . . . more . . .
Hamburg look to turn over old boy Magath (Sep 24, 2005)
Bayern Munich manager Felix Magath won the European Cup as a player with SV Hamburg in 1983 but that will be forgotten this weekend with his former club looking to end Bayern's perfect start to the season. . . . more . . .
Defence the best form of attack for high-flying Palermo (Sep 24, 2005)
Serie A high-fliers Palermo will look once again to an unlikely source for their goals when they visit Lazio in the next round of Serie A matches. . . . more . . .
Hearts show title credentials with Rangers win (Sep 24, 2005)
Hearts won their eighth straight victory in the Scottish Premier League with a 1-0 home win over last season's champions Rangers. . . . more . . .
Reds 'not good enough': Gerrard (Sep 24, 2005)
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard branded the Reds "not good enough" after they were held to a 2-2 draw at Birmingham City. . . . more . . .
United seek return of devilish cutting edge (Sep 24, 2005)
Paul Scholes has warned that anything less than a victory over Blackburn could be fatal to Manchester United's hopes of clawing the Premiership title back from Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Lampard fires 7-up Chelsea as United stunned by Blackburn (Sep 24, 2005)
Chelsea conceded a goal for the first time this season but a Frank Lampard double allowed the champions to recover and stretch their winning start to the Premiership campaign to seven matches. . . . more . . .
Beers all round as Hamburg derail Bayern (Sep 24, 2005)
SV Hamburg ended Bayern Munich's record run of 15 consecutive league wins defeating the German champions 2-0 at the AOL-Arena. . . . more . . .
Owen winner sinks Man City (Sep 24, 2005)
England striker Michael Owen paid off another chunk of his transfer fee, scoring the only goal as Newcastle United beat English Premiership rivals Manchester City at St James' Park. . . . more . . .
Lampard double keeps Chelsea perfect (Sep 24, 2005)
Chelsea conceded their first goal in the Premiership this season but Frank Lampard scored twice to ensure they maintained their 100 percent record in a 2-1 win over Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Nolan's bicycle kick pedals Bolton up the Premiership (Sep 24, 2005)
A spectacular overhead kick by Kevin Nolan earned Bolton Wanderers a 1-0 win over Portsmouth at the Reebok Stadium, moving them up to third in the English Premiership. . . . more . . .
Pedersen at the double as Blackburn stun Man Utd (Sep 24, 2005)
Morten Gamst Pedersen struck twice to stun Manchester United as Blackburn Rovers won 2-1 at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
PSG inch closer to Lyon (Sep 24, 2005)
Paris Saint Germain moved to within one point of champions Lyon after a goalless draw with French first division newcomers Le Mans. . . . more . . .
Unbeaten Getafe go back to the top (Sep 24, 2005)
Unbeaten Getafe continued their remarkable season by winning 1-0 at near-neighbours Atletico Madrid to go back to the top of the Spanish first division on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Vieira strikes again as Juve maintain perfect record (Sep 24, 2005)
Serie A leaders Juventus fought back from a goal down to win 2-1 at Parma and maintain their 100 per cent record. . . . more . . .
Wigan heap woe on Everton (Sep 24, 2005)
Wigan Athletic piled more misery on Everton as Damien Francis snatched victory with the only goal of the game at Goodison Park. . . . more . . .
Murphy brace keeps Charlton riding high (Sep 24, 2005)
A Danny Murphy double kept up Charlton Athletic's excellent English Premership start with a 2-1 win over West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns. . . . more . . .
Reggina end dismal run (Sep 24, 2005)
Reggina ended a run of four straight Serie A defeats with a 2-0 home victory against Udinese. . . . more . . .
Arsenal aim to cure travel sickness (Sep 23, 2005)
Arsenal desperately need a dramatic improvement in their away form if they are to catch Chelsea at the top of the English Premiership and that bid continues on Saturday at West Ham. . . . more . . .
Bayern dominance ruins Bundesliga spectacle (Sep 23, 2005)
While Bayern Munich celebrate their 100 percent start to the Bundesliga season with a few beers at the on-going Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival, the rest of Germany fear their dominance is turning the league into a dull spectacle. . . . more . . .
O'Leary praises 'professional' Chelsea (Sep 23, 2005)
Aston Villa boss David O'Leary believes Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho will not allow the English champions to become complacent in their pursuit of a successive Premiership crown. . . . more . . .
Alonso backs Liverpool to end goal drought (Sep 23, 2005)
Liverpool's Spanish ace Xabi Alonso believes Saturday lunchtime's trip to Birmingham could provide the European champions with the feast of goals thay have missed so far this season. . . . more . . .
Defence the best form of attack for high-flying Palermo (Sep 23, 2005)
Serie A high-fliers Palermo will look once again to an unlikely source for their goals when they visit Lazio in the next round of Serie A matches. . . . more . . .
Weary Cahill set for Everton break (Sep 23, 2005)
Everton's Australian midfielder Tim Cahill could face a spell on the sidelines as Blues boss David Moyes tries to halt a worrying slide in the team's form. . . . more . . .
Ruud helps Park find his feet in Manchester (Sep 23, 2005)
South Korea midfielder Ji-Sung Park has settled quickly into English life following his summer move from PSV Eindhoven to Manchester United, with a helping hand from Ruud van Nistelrooy. . . . more . . .
Stoichkov picks up four match ban (Sep 23, 2005)
Bulgaria manager Hristo Stoichkov has been hit with a four match ban for a "scandalous" attack on Lennart Johansson, president of European football's governing body UEFA. . . . more . . .
Souness backs misfiring Newcastle duo (Sep 23, 2005)
Newcastle boss Graeme Souness, buoyed by last weekend's win at Blackburn which took his side out of the bottom three, is confident that Jean-Alain Boumsong and Lee Clark will come good against Manchester City on Saturday. . . . more . . .
United injury jinx strikes again as Neville forced under the knife (Sep 23, 2005)
The injury jinx apparently afflicting Manchester United this season has struck again with England fullback Gary Neville ruled out for at least six more weeks following surgery on his groin. . . . more . . .
Jones banned for Ismael stamp (Sep 22, 2005)
Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Jermaine Jones has been hit with a three-match ban for violent conduct, the German Football Federation (DFB) has confirmed. . . . more . . .
Asian football will rival Premier League in a decade: EPL boss (Sep 22, 2005)
Asian football will rival the English Premier League for popularity in the next decade, according to the league's chairman Dave Richards. . . . more . . .
Mexican police free abducted Argentine coach (Sep 22, 2005)
Mexican police freed the Argentine coach of one of the country's biggest football clubs who was kidnapped two months ago. . . . more . . .
Italy's bid to stage 2012 Euros expected to survive cut (Sep 22, 2005)
UEFA chief executive Lars-Christer Olsson believes Italy's bid to stage the 2012 European championships will survive the cut in November. . . . more . . .
Czech star Nedved rules out comeback (Sep 22, 2005)
Former Czech Republic captain Pavel Nedved has ruled out a comeback for the national team. . . . more . . .
Real matador promises to fight to the end (Sep 22, 2005)
Under-fire Real Madrid coach Wanderley Luxemburgo claims he has the nerves of a bullfighter and will stick with his team to the end of his contract in 2007. . . . more . . .
Doncaster penalise City, McBride saves the day at Fulham (Sep 22, 2005)
Manchester City became the latest Premiership side to be ambushed by smaller fry when modest Doncaster knocked Stuart Pearce's men out of the second round of the League Cup on penalties. . . . more . . .
Schalke back in for Chelsea's Huth (Sep 22, 2005)
Schalke 04 are ready to renew their interest in Chelsea's German international defender Robert Huth, team manager Andreas Muller confirmed. . . . more . . .
Puyol extends Barcelona contract until 2010 (Sep 22, 2005)
Barcelona captain Carles Puyol has extended his contract with the Spanish champions until 2010, the Catalan club has announced. . . . more . . .
No love lost as former player breaks Hearts (Sep 22, 2005)
Scottish Premier League leaders Hearts suffered their first defeat of the season as a goal by former striker Ramon Pereira handed Livingston a 1-0 victory in the League Cup third round clash. . . . more . . .
Sparta Prague give Poborsky the boot after criticism of coach (Sep 22, 2005)
The Czech Republic's most capped player Karel Poborsky has been booted out of Sparta Prague's first team after criticising coach Jaroslav Hrebik, the club has announced. . . . more . . .
Alonso backs Liverpool to end goal drought (Sep 22, 2005)
Liverpool's Spanish ace Xabi Alonso believes Saturday lunchtime's trip to Birmingham could provide the European champions with the feast of goals they have missed so far this season. . . . more . . .
Carra confident Benitez will snub Real (Sep 22, 2005)
England defender Jamie Carragher is confident that Rafael Benitez will snub any approach from Real Madrid in favour of continuing his planned resurrection of Liverpool to the top of the English game. . . . more . . .
Cudicini happy to stay at Chelsea (Sep 22, 2005)
Chelsea's reserve goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini has committed his future to the club, despite his first team chances being restricted by the imposing presence of Petr Cech. . . . more . . .
Giggs vows to keep going and going (Sep 22, 2005)
Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs believes he has another three years top flight football left in him and that he is quite happy to see out his playing days at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Nigeria recall skipper Okocha (Sep 22, 2005)
Nigeria skipper Austin 'Jay Jay' Okocha has been recalled to the Super Eagles for the final Group 4 World Cup tie against Zimbabwe next month but Middlesbrough striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni was overlooked. . . . more . . .
Legal appeal could see Nowotny axed (Sep 22, 2005)
Former German international Jens Nowotny admits Bayer Leverkusen have threatened to release him if he continues to pursue a court case over unpaid wages. . . . more . . .
Real win but red-card Woodgate endures miserable debut (Sep 22, 2005)
England defender Jonathan Woodgate endured a nightmare debut for Real Madrid after his 17-month injury-enforced layoff. . . . more . . .
O'Leary praises 'professional' Chelsea (Sep 22, 2005)
Aston Villa boss David O'Leary believes Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho will not allow the English champions to become complacent in their pursuit of a successive Premiership crown. . . . more . . .
Woodgate puts brave face on miserable Real debut (Sep 22, 2005)
Jonathan Woodgate endured a nightmare debut for Real Madrid, scoring an own goal and being sent off, but the England defender said he was just happy to have made his debut after his 17-month injury-enforced layoff. . . . more . . .
Celta Vigo start early assault on first title (Sep 22, 2005)
Celta Vigo have never won a single major honour in football but the early league leaders in Spain have a feeling that this may be the year to finally break that barren spell. . . . more . . .
Tiago saves Lyon from the blues (Sep 22, 2005)
Portuguese midfielder Tiago saved the day for Lyon when scoring his first goal since his summer move from Chelsea to earn the French champions a 1-1 draw with Lens. . . . more . . .
Real torero promises to fight to the end (Sep 22, 2005)
Under-fire Real Madrid coach Wanderley Luxemburgo claims he has the nerves of a bullfighter and will stick with his team to the end of his contract in 2007. . . . more . . .
Minnows calls for end to big-spending (Sep 22, 2005)
Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has called for a salary cap on English Premiership clubs to prevent the big-spenders like Chelsea ruining the competition. . . . more . . .
City fail to pass Rovers test (Sep 22, 2005)
Manchester City manager Stuart Pearce admitted his Premiership side did not deserve to win after being knocked out of the Carling League Cup by lowly Doncaster Rovers. . . . more . . .
Manchester United accept Rooney ban (Sep 21, 2005)
Manchester United have decided not to appeal against Wayne Rooney's two-match Champions League ban handed down by European soccer governing body UEFA. . . . more . . .
Vieira ensures Juve stay perfect (Sep 21, 2005)
Title-holders Juventus maintained their 100 per cent Serie A record with a dogged 1-0 victory at Udinese. . . . more . . .
Salvaged point not enough for Schalke (Sep 21, 2005)
Just six games into the season Schalke 04's hopes of a first Bundesliga title since 1958 already look over after a 1-1 draw with FC Nuremberg. . . . more . . .
Gilberto to stay at Arsenal until 2009 (Sep 21, 2005)
Arsenal's Brazilian midfielder Gilberto has signed a four-year contract extension with the English Premiership giants. . . . more . . .
Woodgate's ready, says Real Madrid coach Luxemburgo (Sep 21, 2005)
England defender Jonathan Woodgate is ready to play a competitive game for the first time in 17 months, said Real Madrid coach Wanderley Luxemburgo. . . . more . . .
Pompey boss admits to lack of fight (Sep 21, 2005)
Portsmough manager Alain Perrin admits his side ran out of fight in their 3-2 defeat by lowly Gillingham in the Carling League Cup. . . . more . . .
Jol hits out at Spurs strikers (Sep 21, 2005)
Tottenham manager Martin Jol blamed his toothless attack for the sensational League Cup defeat to League Two leaders Grimsby. . . . more . . .
Iaquinta axed after contract talks break down (Sep 21, 2005)
Udinese have warned striker Vincenzo Iaquinta they will not be held to ransom over his new contract demands. . . . more . . .
Furious Scottish refs threaten strike over Lennon ban (Sep 21, 2005)
Scottish referees are threatening strike action in protest at what they see as the lenient treatment of Celtic captain Neil Lennon, who was banned for three games on Tuesday for pushing an official. . . . more . . .
It's getting Messi for Barcelona (Sep 21, 2005)
Barcelona's gifted teenage Argentina striker Lionel Messi's hopes of changing his eligibility status to increase his chances of playing in the Spanish League were dashed. . . . more . . .
International footballers play too much: Domenech (Sep 21, 2005)
France coach Raymond Domenech has suggested that international footballers play a fixed maximum number of matches in a bid to cut down on injuries. . . . more . . .
Rooney raging again, but at least it is not at his own team (Sep 21, 2005)
England captain David Beckham and referee Kim Milton Nielson have both been on the receiving end of verbal volleys from Wayne Rooney this month. . . . more . . .
Mental strength saves the day for Shenzhen (Sep 21, 2005)
Shenzhen upset the odds and made it through to the Asian Champions League semi-finals thanks to the team's mental strength, two-goal hero Li Yi said. . . . more . . .
Nine-man Monaco saved by a "mini-miracle" (Sep 21, 2005)
Jean Petit's first match in charge as caretaker manager of Monaco proved an eventful affair with two men sent off in a come-from-behind 2-1 victory at Troyes. . . . more . . .
Deschamps denies Real rumours, needs a rest (Sep 21, 2005)
Didier Deschamps spoke out for the first time since his resignation as Monaco manager to dismiss reports linking him to Real Madrid. . . . more . . .
Bayern want Hargreaves to sign extension (Sep 21, 2005)
German champions Bayern Munich revealed that they are holding talks with England international star Owen Hargreaves about extending his contract. . . . more . . .
Doncaster penalise City, McBride saves the day at Fulham (Sep 21, 2005)
Manchester City became the latest Premiership side to be ambushed by smaller fry when modest Doncaster knocked Stuart Pearce's men out of the second round of the League Cup on penalties. . . . more . . .
Is English football shooting itself in the foot? (Sep 21, 2005)
Soaring ticket prices, saturation television coverage and stifling tactics are all being blamed for a sharp drop in attendances at Premiership matches over the first month of the season. . . . more . . .
WADA still not convinced FIFA in compliance with code (Sep 21, 2005)
World football governing body FIFA may still not be in complete compliance with the world anti-doping code, despite its recent rule changes, World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) president Dick Pound said. . . . more . . .
Celta lead while goalie gaffes give Barca draw (Sep 21, 2005)
Celta Vigo went back to the top of the Spanish first division after a 2-1 win at Villarreal while goalkeeping errors meant Barcelona had to be satisfied with a 2-2 draw at home to Valencia. . . . more . . .
Iran's coach hopes side can be World Cup 'dark horses' (Sep 21, 2005)
Brazil, Argentina or Holland and not Germany are the teams best placed to scoop the World Cup in Germany next year, Iran's Croatian coach Branko Ivankovic told AFP. . . . more . . .
Romanov stops the scoffing as Hearts revel in winning style (Sep 21, 2005)
When Vladimir Romanov swept into power as owner of Hearts in January he joked that his mission to smash the Old Firm's dominance of Scottish football would be achieved in a matter of "hours and minutes." . . . more . . .
Celtic captain Lennon handed three-match ban (Sep 20, 2005)
Celtic captain Neil Lennon has been given a three-match ban by the Scottish Football Association for his clash with referee Stuart Dougal after last month's Premier League match against Rangers. . . . more . . .
Arsenal's Campbell targets England return after scoring twice (Sep 20, 2005)
Arsenal centre-back Sol Campbell is targeting an England return after marking his Premiership comeback with both goals in a 2-0 victory against Everton. . . . more . . .
Ageing defence to blame for Milan slump: Rivera (Sep 20, 2005)
AC Milan legend Gianni Rivera has put his former club's recent slump down to an ageing defence and their poor judgement on the transfer market. . . . more . . .
Mido cleared for Spurs return (Sep 20, 2005)
Egyptian striker Mido will be back in action for Tottenham against Fulham on Monday after being cleared of a Football Association (FA) charge of improper conduct. . . . more . . .
Former Marseille chairman Louis-Dreyfus to stand trial for embezzlement (Sep 20, 2005)
Former Marseille chairman Robert Louis-Dreyfus has been ordered to stand trial for embezzling money at the French first division club, Marseille prosecutors revealed. . . . more . . .
Petit not interested in full-time Monaco coaching job (Sep 20, 2005)
Monaco caretaker coach Jean Petit, who stepped in after Didier Deschamps quit, insisted that he is not interested in taking over from the former France captain full-time. . . . more . . .
Game over for 'Super Mario' Basler (Sep 20, 2005)
Former German international Mario Basler was sacked as manager of regional side Jahn Regensburg after a wretched run of seven games without a win. . . . more . . .
Rooney handed two match ban by UEFA (Sep 20, 2005)
Manchester United's Champions League hopes received a serious blow as England striker Wayne Rooney was suspended for two matches by UEFA for his sending-off in last week's 0-0 draw with Villarreal. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo wants Portugal-Brazil 2006 World Cup final (Sep 20, 2005)
Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed his dream 2006 World Cup final would be Brazil versus Portugal. . . . more . . .
Korea's Tae-Yong Shin announces retirement (Sep 20, 2005)
South Korean midfielder Tae-Yong Shin will hang up his boots after failing to recover from a persistent ankle injury, according to his Australian club. . . . more . . .
Matthaus hungry for new challenge with PAOK Salonika (Sep 20, 2005)
West Germany's 1990 World Cup winner Lothar Matthaus, currently coach of the Hungarian national team, admitted that he was on the brink of returning to club management with Greek side PAOK Salonika. . . . more . . .
Wenger appeals for entertaining football (Sep 20, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has warned that boring football will drive away fans. . . . more . . .
Mourinho drops England hint (Sep 20, 2005)
Chelsea's Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho has admitted he might one day be ready to coach England. . . . more . . .
Mourinho plays down England link (Sep 20, 2005)
Chelsea's Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho has played down speculation that he could become manager of the England national team. . . . more . . .
One nil specialists Bayern go five points clear (Sep 20, 2005)
Bayern Munich raced five points clear at the Bundesliga summit with a 1-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt maintaining their 100 percent start to the season. . . . more . . .
Arsenal goalkeeper raped drunk student, court told (Sep 20, 2005)
A player with English Premiership side Arsenal raped a drunk and unwell student at his apartment after meeting her in a London nightclub, a court was told. . . . more . . .
Pires to Neville: "j'accuse" (Sep 20, 2005)
Robert Pires has accused Everton midfielder Phil Neville of deliberately attempting to hurt him with a challenge during Arsenal's 2-0 win at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Premiership appeals to me says Czech star Koller (Sep 19, 2005)
Borussia Dortmund's Czech international striker Jan Koller admits he is still uncertain where he will be playing his football next season but admitted it would be outside of the Bundesliga. . . . more . . .
Madrid consider contesting result of Espanyol defeat (Sep 19, 2005)
Real Madrid are considering the possibility of contesting the result of their 1-0 defeat at Espanyol, claiming that the winning goal should not have been allowed. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho voted player of the year by international players' union (Sep 19, 2005)
Barcelona's Brazilian star Ronaldinho has been voted player of the year by FIFPro, the international professional football players' union. . . . more . . .
Big Ron sees no-one stopping Chelsea (Sep 19, 2005)
Ron Atkinson, manager of Manchester United when they opened the 1985-86 season with ten victories and still finished fourth after being hit by a string of injuries, sees no-one to match Chelsea's huge world-class squad this season. . . . more . . .
South Korean star Cha ready for record breakers Bayern (Sep 19, 2005)
South Korea international striker Du-ri Cha was delighted with his fist goal of the season in Eintracht Frankfurt's 1-1 draw with SC Hamburg on Saturday and now has his sights set on Bayern Munich. . . . more . . .
Rafa puts points before thrills (Sep 19, 2005)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, whose team have scored just one goal in four Premiership games, admits he is more concerned with picking up points than entertaining. . . . more . . .
Butt charged by FA (Sep 19, 2005)
Birmingham's Nicky Butt has been charged by the Football Association (FA) for making abusive comments to a match official. . . . more . . .
Deschamps quits as Monaco coach (Sep 19, 2005)
French first division side Monaco have accepted coach Didier Deschamps' decision to resign. . . . more . . .
Sparta players and staff attacked by angry fans after defeat (Sep 19, 2005)
Players and staff at Sparta Prague came under attack from angry fans after the reigning Czech football league champions fell to a 2-0 defeat at the weekend, a club spokeswoman has revealed. . . . more . . .
Barcelona coach Rijkaard extends contract till 2009 (Sep 19, 2005)
Barcelona's Dutch coach Frank Rijkaard has extended his contract by two years till 2009, the reigning Spanish champions announced. . . . more . . .
Monaco accept Deschamps resignation (Sep 19, 2005)
Monaco have accepted the resignation of coach Didier Deschamps, club president Michel Pastor confirmed. . . . more . . .
Wanderley's known worse, says Real Madrid coach (Sep 19, 2005)
Real Madrid coach Wanderley Luxemburgo tried to gloss over the problems facing the Spanish giants after their third consecutive loss, going down 1-0 at Espanyol. . . . more . . .
Supersub Huckerby has Canaries singing (Sep 19, 2005)
Substitute Darren Huckerby gave Norwich a 1-0 win over local rivals Ipswich and helped the Canaries, relegated from the Premiership last season, avoid sinking to the bottom of the Championship. . . . more . . .
Leeds see light at end of tunnel (Sep 19, 2005)
Leeds United, who crashed out of the Premiership with 100 million pounds of debt hanging around their necks a year ago, believe they can rise from the dead. . . . more . . .
Mystery buyer chases Villa (Sep 19, 2005)
Aston Villa have said they have received a preliminary approach to buy the English Premiership club. . . . more . . .
Bolton late shows make Sam happy (Sep 19, 2005)
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce admits they stole the points in their 1-0 win at Manchester City but believes the resilience his side has shown in their last two games points to a brighter future. . . . more . . .
Campbell scores twice as Arsenal beat Everton (Sep 19, 2005)
Sol Campbell scored twice on his first Premiership appearance of the season as Arsenal beat Everton 2-0 at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Beckenbauer touched by birthday tribute (Sep 19, 2005)
German footballing legend Franz Beckenbauer admits he was overcome by emotion after 66,000 fans at the Allianz Arena sang him 'happy birthday' prior to Bayern Munich's 1-0 win over Hannover on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Chelsea offer glimmer of hope to chasing pack (Sep 18, 2005)
Chelsea's assistant manager Steve Clarke offered some encouragement to the rest of the Premiership, despite an ominously impressive 2-0 victory over Charlton at the Valley. . . . more . . .
Harewood warned to keep goals flowing for Hammers (Sep 18, 2005)
West Ham boss Alan Pardew has piled the pressure on Marlon Harewood by warning the in-form striker he must carry on hitting the net to keep his place in the side. . . . more . . .
Rangers still short on fitness (Sep 18, 2005)
Rangers manager Alex McLeish says many of his players still need to work on their fitness before they can reach the level of performance he expects. . . . more . . .
Keane wants chance in Spurs starting line-up (Sep 18, 2005)
Robbie Keane expects his late equaliser for Tottenham Hotspur in the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa to give him the platform for a starting place in Martin Jol's side. . . . more . . .
Wenger fears for Gunners title dreams (Sep 18, 2005)
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has demanded his team shake off their sluggish start to the season against struggling Everton on Monday or risk losing sight of Premiership champions Chelsea in the title race. . . . more . . .
Birmingham steal point despite Butt dismisal (Sep 17, 2005)
Jiri Jarosik rescued a point for 10-man Birmingham who maintained their unbeaten away record with a 1-1 stalemate at Fratton Park against Portsmouth. . . . more . . .
Lyon held on return to domestic fray (Sep 17, 2005)
Lyon, buzzing after their 3-0 Champions League win against Real Madrid in midweek, were brought back to earth on their return to the French league when being held to a 1-1 draw by Bordeaux. . . . more . . .
Deportivo lose unbeaten record but salvage valuable point (Sep 17, 2005)
Deportivo La Coruna lost their unbeaten record but scraped a valuable point in a 2-2 draw at Valencia, a topsy-turvy game which saw both teams forced to play most of the second half with 10 men. . . . more . . .
High fives as Bayern set new benchmark (Sep 17, 2005)
Reigning champions Bayern Munich set a new record of 14 successive Bundesliga wins with a 1-0 triumph over Hannover at the Allianz Arena. . . . more . . .
Mancini hits back at critics after Lecce win (Sep 17, 2005)
Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini took a swipe at his critics after his team's 3-0 home victory over Lecce which put their title challenge back on track. . . . more . . .
Scrooge Chelsea slammed by disabled fans (Sep 16, 2005)
Chelsea have been branded the scrooges of the Premiership by disabled fans shocked to learn they have to pay double for their tickets this season. . . . more . . .
Barcelona hand teen star Messi nine-year extension (Sep 16, 2005)
Argentinian 18-year-old prodigy Lionel Messi signed a new deal with Barcelona which will keep him at the Spanish champions until 2014. . . . more . . .
Queiroz defends record at Real (Sep 16, 2005)
Manchester United assistant manager Carlos Queiroz has defended his record as coach at Real Madrid, saying the Spanish club's disastrous start to the new season shows he was not the cause of its weakness. . . . more . . .
Bergkamp backs Van Persie to handle pressure (Sep 16, 2005)
Veteran striker Dennis Bergkamp believes his Arsenal teammate and Dutch compatriot Robin van Persie is tough enough to overcome the latest setback to his promising Highbury career. . . . more . . .
Friedel to stay a Rover until 2008 (Sep 16, 2005)
American goalkeeper Brad Friedel has signed a new contract with Blackburn Rovers which will keep him at the English Premiership club until 2008. . . . more . . .
Heinze injury blow for United (Sep 16, 2005)
Manchester United suffered a massive injury blow when Argentina left-back Gabriel Heinze was ruled out for most of the season because of damage to the cruciate ligament in his knee. . . . more . . .
Liverpool warned of Rooney backlash (Sep 16, 2005)
Sir Alex Ferguson is confident Wayne Rooney can put the furore over his Champions League red card behind him with another match-winning display against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Bellamy set for volatile Newcastle reunion (Sep 16, 2005)
Fiery Welsh striker Craig Bellamy will return for Blackburn on Sunday, when Newcastle -- the club he left under such bitter circumstances -- visit Ewood Park in what could be a volatile Premisership clash. . . . more . . .
Van Persie handed one-match ban (Sep 16, 2005)
Arsenal's Dutch attacker Robin van Persie was handed a one-match Champions League ban by UEFA after being sent-off in the 2-1 win over FC Thun. . . . more . . .
England eye 2018 World Cup bid (Sep 16, 2005)
England are poised to bid for the 2018 World Cup, the Football Association said. . . . more . . .
Leverkusen sack Augenthaler after poor start to season (Sep 16, 2005)
Manager Klaus Augenthaler paid the price of overseeing the club's worst start to a league campaign in 22 years when it was announced he had been sacked. . . . more . . .
Nielsen: I was right to red-card Rooney (Sep 15, 2005)
Danish referee Kim Milton Nielsen insisted that he was right to send off Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney in the Champions League clash at Villarreal. . . . more . . .
Hoeness cautious as Bayern savour rare away win (Sep 15, 2005)
Bayern Munich may have won their last 13 matches in the Bundesliga but they made hard work of defeating Rapid Vienna 1-0 in their opening Champions League group A match. . . . more . . .
Pound praises FIFA over doping ruling (Sep 15, 2005)
Dick Pound, the head of world anti-doping agency WADA, praised football world governing body FIFA for not contesting its right to appeal controversial doping decisions. . . . more . . .
Supersub Borgetti rescues Bolton (Sep 15, 2005)
Mexican international striker Jared Borgetti came off the bench to strike an injury-time winner as Bolton celebrated their European baptism with a 2-1 win over Lokomotiv Plovdiv. . . . more . . .
Valdez distraught as Bremen fire blanks (Sep 15, 2005)
Paraguayan international Nelson Haedo Valdez admitted Werder Bremen's 2-0 Champions League defeat to Barcelona had left him reflecting on a string of missed chances. . . . more . . .
For Chelsea, revenge a dish to be consumed at Anfield (Sep 15, 2005)
The six straight wins with which Chelsea have started the season has not eased the pain over last season's Champions League semi-final defeat at the hands of eventual winners Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Woeful Everton on brink of elimination (Sep 15, 2005)
Everton's miserable start to the season suffered a new low when they slipped to a humiliating 5-1 defeat at the hands of Dynamo Bucharest in their UEFA Cup first round, first leg tie. . . . more . . .
Boateng and Viduka earn UEFA Cup win for Boro (Sep 15, 2005)
Goals from George Boateng and Mark Viduka were enough for depleted Middlesbrough to earn a 2-0 winning start in their UEFA Cup campaign against Greek side FC Xanthi. . . . more . . .
Empty winning feeling for UEFA Cup holders CSKA (Sep 15, 2005)
UEFA Cup holders CSKA Moscow got the defence of their title off to a flying start with a 3-1 win over Danish side FC Midtjylland but the win was greeted in silence. . . . more . . .
Barcelona triumphant but defensive problems remain (Sep 14, 2005)
Spanish champions Barcelona started their Champions League campaign with a 2-0 win over Werder Bremen at the Weserstadion to live up to their billing as Group C favourites. . . . more . . .
Rooney sees red as Villarreal hold United (Sep 14, 2005)
Manchester United's Wayne Rooney was sent off, with England coach Sven Goran Eriksson watching from the stands, as Villarreal held the 1999 European champions to a 0-0 draw. . . . more . . .
Trezeguet brings up century as Juventus coast past Bruges (Sep 14, 2005)
Second half goals from Pavel Nedved and David Trezeguet - his hundredth for the club - handed Juventus a 2-1 win over FC Bruges in their Champions League group A encounter. . . . more . . .
Schalke to hold talks after 'half-hearted' display (Sep 14, 2005)
Schalke 04 have invested millions of euros in a bid to reach the Champions League but the manner of the 1-0 defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the Group E opener suggests there was still a long way to go. . . . more . . .
Porto duo sidelined after clash with Rangers (Sep 14, 2005)
FC Porto captain Pedro Emanuel and striker Tomislav Sokota have both been sidelined due to injuries suffered during their squad's 3-2 Champions League loss to Rangers, the club said. . . . more . . .
Bergkamp saves Arsenal in Swiss scare (Sep 14, 2005)
Dutch veteran Dennis Bergkamp scored in injury time to spare Arsenal's blushes and beat plucky Swiss minnows Thun 2-1 in the Champions League Group B opener here at Highbury. . . . more . . .
Iaquinta hat-trick gives newcomers Udinese perfect start (Sep 14, 2005)
Vincenzo Iaquinta scored a hat-trick as Udinese began their first ever Champions League campaign with an impressive 3-0 home victory against Group C rivals Panathinaikos. . . . more . . .
United's Rooney takes flak from Ferguson (Sep 14, 2005)
Manchester United coach Alex Ferguson blamed the sending off of his wayward striker Wayne Rooney for their failure to beat Villarreal. . . . more . . .
Experience counts in large amounts for Liverpool (Sep 14, 2005)
The old saying that there is no substitute for experience was amply proven by Liverpool's 2-1 Champions League win at Real Betis and the Spanish media warmed to the theme. . . . more . . .
Miccoli rescues Benfica against plucky Lille (Sep 14, 2005)
Italy international Fabrizio Miccoli saved Benfica's Champions League blushes with an injury-time goal which handed the Portuguese champions a 1-0 win over French side Lille in group D. . . . more . . .
Portuguese football talent increasingly finding a home abroad (Sep 14, 2005)
Portugal is known for its exports of cork, wine, and shoes - and increasingly of top football talent as well. . . . more . . .
Rooney and van Nistelrooy don't worry me: Villarreal keeper (Sep 13, 2005)
Villarreal goalkeeper Sebastian Viera was keeping remarkably calm depsite the imminent arrival of the Manchester United artillery in the shape of Wayne Rooney and Ruud van Nistelrooy. . . . more . . .
Trezeguet eyes Platini's Juve record (Sep 13, 2005)
Juventus striker David Trezeguet has set his sights on overtaking the club's goalscoring record set by fellow Frenchman Michel Platini. . . . more . . .
Kaka's magic saves Milan from more Turkish torment (Sep 13, 2005)
Brazilian midfielder Kaka scored twice as AC Milan began their Champions League campaign with a 3-1 victory against Fenerbahce. . . . more . . .
PSV hold off sulky Schalke (Sep 13, 2005)
PSV Eindhoven got their Champions League group phase bid off to the perfect start with a 1-0 win over Schalke 04 in their group E clash. . . . more . . .
Chelsea confident despite Del Horno loss (Sep 13, 2005)
Chelsea are unlikely to be tested by Belgian side Anderlecht in their opening Champions League group game at Stamford Bridge, despite the likely absence of left-back Asier Del Horno. . . . more . . .
Rangers ready for Porto (Sep 13, 2005)
Rangers manager Alex McLeish says FC Porto will hold no surprises for him when they visit Ibrox in their opening game of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Fate throws Milan Turkish teaser (Sep 13, 2005)
AC Milan begin their Champions League campaign against a team from Istanbul - the city where they suffered heartbreak in the final last season. . . . more . . .
Liverpool get three points in double-quick time (Sep 13, 2005)
Two quick-fire goals from Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Luis Garcia helped Champions League holders Liverpool to a 2-1 win over Real Betis in their group G match. . . . more . . .
Rangers win five-goal thriller against Porto (Sep 13, 2005)
Sotirios Kyrgiakos scored a late winner for Rangers as the Scottish Champions defeated Porto 3-2 in Group H of the Champions League. . . . more . . .
Lampard special enough for stuttering Chelsea (Sep 13, 2005)
Chelsea made hard work of beating Belgian league-leaders Anderlecht 1-0 at Stamford Bridge, Frank Lampard's first half free-kick proving the winner in this opening Champions League Group G game. . . . more . . .
Lyon hunger sends Real crashing (Sep 13, 2005)
Lyon took a huge bite out of Real Madrid's Champions League ambitions with a stunning 3-0 victory over the nine-times European champions which sent them top of group F. . . . more . . .
Rosenborg upset Olympiakos (Sep 13, 2005)
Norwegian outfit Rosenborg upset Olympiakos Piraeus 3-1 in the opening Group F Champions League match for both clubs. . . . more . . .
Villarreal still hopeful Riquelme will be fit (Sep 13, 2005)
Villarreal are still hopeful that their Argentine international playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme will be fit to face Manchester United in their Champions League group D match on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Advocaat takes over as South Korean football coach (Sep 13, 2005)
Dutchman Dick Advocaat has taken over as South Korean coach and will lead the side until the end of the 2006 World Cup in Germany, the Korea Football Association (KFA) confirmed. . . . more . . .
Henry injury blow for France (Sep 12, 2005)
Arsenal striker Thierry Henry could miss France's key World Cup qualifying matches against Cyprus and Switzerland next month with a groin injury. . . . more . . .
United face South Americans out for revenge (Sep 12, 2005)
Two South American players who flopped in the English Premiership are set to knock Manchester United crashing in the Champions League on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
PSG midfielder Rothen out for two weeks (Sep 12, 2005)
Paris Saint Germain midfielder Jerome Rothen has injured his left leg and will be out of action for two weeks. . . . more . . .
Luxemburgo tips Lyon but Raul on the mend (Sep 12, 2005)
Real Madrid coach Vanderley Luxemburgo has nominated hosts Lyon as favourites for the sides' Champions League group F encounter following the Spanish giants' latest domestic setback. . . . more . . .
Golden Harewood hammers home hat-trick (Sep 12, 2005)
Premiership newboys West Ham went seventh in the standings as Marlon Harewood scored a hat-trick to give them a 4-0 victory over Aston Villa. . . . more . . .
Schalke lose Asamoah for two months (Sep 12, 2005)
Schalke 04 must do without Germany striker Gerald Asamoah for two months after he sustained a knee injury in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Bayer Leverkusen. . . . more . . .
Time to get serious, says Liverpool coach Benitez (Sep 12, 2005)
Liverpool coach Rafa Benitez believes that his team have finally put behind them the distractions of winning the Champions League last season and will be on song against Real Betis. . . . more . . .
Cologne desperate to keep shooting star Podolski (Sep 11, 2005)
FC Cologne are willing to offer their German international striker Lukas Podolski a ten-year contract to stay at the Rhein-Energie Stadium. . . . more . . .
Hearts maintain 100 percent record in SPL (Sep 11, 2005)
Table-toppers Hearts beat basement club Livingston 4-1 in the Scottish Premier League to maintain their 100 percent record after six matches. . . . more . . .
Ricken at the double for Dortmund (Sep 11, 2005)
Borussia Dortmund recorded their first win of the season with former German international Lars Ricken scoring both goals in a 2-1 victory over FC Cologne. . . . more . . .
Bolton legend Lofthouse takes limelight (Sep 11, 2005)
Bolton and Blackburn Rovers played out a goalless Premiership draw but it was Bolton legend Nat Lofthouse who took most of the applause after recently celebrating his 80th birthday. . . . more . . .
Henry out of Arsenal's Thun tie (Sep 11, 2005)
Arsenal's French striker Thierry Henry will miss Wedensday's Champions League group game against FC Thun of Switzerland with a groin injury. . . . more . . .
Jol prescribes Carrick cure for England (Sep 11, 2005)
Tottenham Hotspur manager Martin Jol tipped Michael Carrick to be the answer to England's midfield problems after his man-of-the-match display against Champions League winners Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Bayern welcome back Makaay for Vienna trip (Sep 11, 2005)
Bayern Munich manager Felix Magath has confirmed that Netherlands international striker Roy Makaay will be fit for Wednesday's Champions League match at Rapid Vienna. . . . more . . .
Quickfire Juve crush Empoli (Sep 11, 2005)
Juventus crushed Empoli 4-0 to make it two wins in as many matches for the reigning Serie A champions. . . . more . . .
Eto'o on target as Barca bounce back (Sep 11, 2005)
Samuel Eto'o provided both of Barcelona's goals as the reigning Spanish champions bounced back after their lacklustre start to the season to beat Real Mallorca 2-0. . . . more . . .
Vieira hails perfect Juve (Sep 11, 2005)
Patrick Vieira capped an excellent performance by scoring his first Serie A goal as Juventus crushed Empoli 4-0 to make it two wins in as many matches for the Italian champions. . . . more . . .
McCarthy dropped for Champions league match against Rangers (Sep 11, 2005)
FC Porto's star striker Benni McCarthy has been dropped from the club's Champions League match against Scottish giants Rangers on Tuesday for breaking club rules. . . . more . . .
Under-fire Eriksson says he's still in charge (Sep 11, 2005)
England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson dismissed reports that his authority had been compromised by player power and insisted he was still in charge. . . . more . . .
Pearce praises City's reformed man Barton (Sep 11, 2005)
Manchester City manager Stuart Pearce paid tribute to troubled midfielder Joey Barton after his goal earned a share of the spoils against city rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford. . . . more . . .
Chelsea extend perfect start but Mourinho still not smiling (Sep 11, 2005)
Jose Mourinho blamed his players gruelling international schedule for Chelsea's lacklustre performance in their 2-0 win over Sunderland. . . . more . . .
Hammam expresses regret over FIFA decision to replay Uzbek-Bahrain match (Sep 11, 2005)
Asian Football Confederation president Mohamed Bin Hammam has expressed regret over FIFA's decision to replay the Uzbekistan-Bahrain 2006 World Cup finals qualifier play-off. . . . more . . .
Yorke's goal in vain as Jets upset Sydney FC in Aussie A-League (Sep 11, 2005)
A goal from jet-lagged Dwight Yorke was not enough to save Sydney FC from crashing to their first defeat in Australia's new A-League season to the Newcastle Jets. . . . more . . .
AFC Congress ratifies Australia's entry into Asia (Sep 11, 2005)
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has unanimously ratified Australia as its 46th member and it will be able to take part in AFC tournaments from January 1 next year, officials said. . . . more . . .
McCarthy in doubt for Champions league match against Rangers (Sep 11, 2005)
FC Porto's star striker Benni McCarthy is in doubt for Tuesday's Champions League away match against Scottish League Cup holders Rangers after he was dropped at the last minute for a weekend Portuguese league game for disciplinary reasons. . . . more . . .
Marseille earn first victory of the season (Sep 11, 2005)
Marseille, never far from the headlines, played a mediocre match in beating Sochaux 1-0 but their first French league victory of the season pulled them out of the relegation zone. . . . more . . .
Inter trip up as AC Milan walk tall (Sep 10, 2005)
Serie A title hopefuls Inter Milan suffered an embarrassing 3-2 defeat away to Palermo while their city neighbours AC Milan won 3-1 at home to Siena. . . . more . . .
Boro shoot down sorry Gunners (Sep 10, 2005)
Arsenal slumped to their second English Premiership defeat of the season as strikes by Yakubu and Massimo Maccarone sealed a stunning 2-1 win for Middlesbrough at the Riverside. . . . more . . .
Monaco misery continues (Sep 10, 2005)
Monaco's season took a further turn for the worse with a 2-1 defeat at reigning French champions Lyon leaving Didier Deschamps' side, already out of Europe, in midtable. . . . more . . .
Celta shock slack Real Madrid (Sep 10, 2005)
Real Madrid were distinctly lacking the samba style that had been expected from the Spanish giants fielding Brazilians Ronaldo and Robinho and slumped to a 3-2 home defeat by Celta Vigo. . . . more . . .
Ballack header keeps perfect Bayern on top (Sep 10, 2005)
Reigning champions Bayern Munich retained their two-point lead at the Bundesliga summit coming from behind to defeat Bavarian neigbours FC Nuremberg 2-1. . . . more . . .
Owen goalless but Magpies finally score (Sep 10, 2005)
Newcastle's new signing Michael Owen failed to get on the scoresheet on his debut for the club but the Premiership strugglers did score their first goal of the season in a 1-1 draw with Fulham. . . . more . . .
Bent strikes again as Charlton chop down Blues (Sep 10, 2005)
In-form striker Darren Bent's winner kept up Charlton Athletic's perfect English Premership start in a 1-0 victory over Birmingham at St Andrews. . . . more . . .
South Africa searches for its soccer soul after World Cup failure (Sep 09, 2005)
South Africa's wounded national soccer squad managed to pick itself off the floor a little in a 4-2 loss against Germany this week, but hard questions are being asked at home on what has gone wrong with Africa's former football powerhouse. . . . more . . .
Steaua receive one-match stadium ban for racism by their fans (Sep 09, 2005)
Steaua have been handed a one-match stadium ban by European football's governing body UEFA after racist abuse was directed at players of Irish club Shelbourne in a European Champions League qualifying round match, the Romanian club said. . . . more . . .
Reds to unveil double-barrelled strike force (Sep 09, 2005)
European champions Liverpool are set to unleash a potent-looking new strike-force on Tottenham at White Hart Lane on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Ferguson predicts derby tonic for suffering England stars (Sep 09, 2005)
A Manchester derby should represent the perfect tonic for England stars Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney as they seek to recover from the hangover from Wednesday's humiliating defeat by Northern Ireland. . . . more . . .
Fulham snap up Christanval (Sep 08, 2005)
English Premiership club Fulham have signed former France centre-back Philippe Christanval on a three-year deal. . . . more . . .
Baxter resigned to South Africa fate (Sep 08, 2005)
South Africa coach Stuart Baxter admits he is on borrowed time following the 4-2 friendly defeat by Germany. . . . more . . .
Chelsea charged over drugs tests on players (Sep 08, 2005)
Chelsea have been charged with breaching Football Association (FA) rules for carrying out private drugs tests on some of their own players. . . . more . . .
Sven savaged after England humiliation in Belfast (Sep 08, 2005)
Sven-Goran Eriksson was on the receiving end of the most ferocious mauling he has received since he became England's first foreign coach more than four and a half years ago. . . . more . . .
Germany captivated by Podolski phenomenen (Sep 08, 2005)
Cologne striker Lukas Podolski found his picture plastered accross the newspapers after scoring a hat-trick in Germany's 4-2 friendly win over South Africa. . . . more . . .
England can still win World Cup: Sanchez (Sep 08, 2005)
Northern Ireland boss Lawrie Sanchez believes England should still be regarded as potential World Cup winners, despite his side's shock win over David Beckham and co. on Wednesday night. . . . more . . .
300 million viewers expected for World Cup draw (Sep 08, 2005)
The final group draw for the 2006 World Cup, to be made in Leipzig on December 9, is expected to pull in a record 300 million viewers worldwide according to the German organising committee (OK). . . . more . . .
Owen tells England stars to accept share of blame (Sep 08, 2005)
Michael Owen has called on his England team-mates to accept the blame for their shock defeat by Northern Ireland and not allow under-fire coach Sven-Goran Eriksson to be a lone scapegoat for one of the most embarassing results in the country's history. . . . more . . .
Head of Spanish Football Federation denies misuse of public funds (Sep 08, 2005)
The chairman of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Angel Maria Villar, denied alleged misuse of public funds by the body, whose public subsidies have been frozen since 2003 as a result of the ongoing investigation. . . . more . . .
Zidane likely out for three weeks (Sep 08, 2005)
Real Madrid's French star Zinedine Zidane will be out of action for some three weeks after suffering a groin strain in Wednesday's crucial 2006 World Cup qualifying win over Republic of Ireland in Dublin, club medical staff said. . . . more . . .
Germany captivated by Podolski phenomenon (Sep 08, 2005)
Cologne striker Lukas Podolski found his picture plastered accross the newspapers after scoring a hat-trick in Germany's 4-2 friendly win over South Africa. . . . more . . .
Ability more important than age says Klinsmann (Sep 08, 2005)
Germany manager Jurgen Klinsmann has vowed to continue with his youth policy right up until the 2006 World Cup sticking to the old adage of "if you are good enough you are old enough". . . . more . . .
Don't get carried away, Domenech warns celebrating French (Sep 08, 2005)
France coach Raymond Domenech has warned his side to avoid premature celebrations after a 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland in Dublin boosted their qualifying campaign for the 2006 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Samuel's three-match ban upheld (Sep 08, 2005)
The appeal court of the Italian football federations's disciplinary council turned down a request by Inter Milan's Argentine defender Walter Samuel to have his three-match ban for spitting at Pavel Nedved reduced. . . . more . . .
Sven blasted for his 'ballroom' tactics (Sep 08, 2005)
Sven-Goran Eriksson was blamed for losing the plot after England's dreadful 1-0 defeat to Northern Ireland in a World Cup qualifier on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
The US ties Guatemala and is joined by Mexico in advancing to 2006 World Cup (Sep 08, 2005)
The United States kept most of their regulars off the field when they played a desperate Guatemala side to a 0-0 draw in the 2006 World Cup qualications in the Guatemala capital. . . . more . . .
Croatian fans charged after violent clashes (Sep 08, 2005)
Police said they had charged 103 Croatian football supporters following the violence which erupted after their team's 1-1 draw against Malta. . . . more . . .
Contract ultimatum for German international Asamoah (Sep 08, 2005)
Schalke 04 have told German international forward Gerald Asamoah to agree a contract extension by November or face being sold when the transfer window reopens again in January 2006. . . . more . . .
Serbia gives Spain a pain (Sep 08, 2005)
Spain was wallowing in self-pity after they dominated their World Cup group seven match against Serbia-Montenegro but only ended up with a 1-1 draw. . . . more . . .
England humiliated by Northern Ireland (Sep 07, 2005)
England's prospects of reaching next year's World Cup finals were thrown into doubt when Sven-Goran Eriksson's side slumped to a stunning 1-0 defeat at the hands of Northern Ireland. . . . more . . .
Hat-trick hero Podolski puts Germany back on track (Sep 07, 2005)
FC Cologne striker Lukas Podolski scored a terrific hat-trick to guide Germany to a 4-2 friendly win over South Africa. . . . more . . .
Bulgarian FA apologises for Stoichkov's dig at UEFA president (Sep 07, 2005)
The Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) has apologised to UEFA following "scandalous" remarks by national team coach Hristo Stoichkov against the the body's president Lennart Johansson. . . . more . . .
Play me more pleads Bayern's Deisler (Sep 07, 2005)
German international midfielder Sebastian Deisler has urged German champions Bayern Munich to give him more playing time after starting the new season on the substitutes bench. . . . more . . .
Portugal frustrated after being held by 10-man Russia (Sep 07, 2005)
Russia, down to 10-men for the second half, managed to hold on for a goalless draw against Portugal in a World Cup qualifier and deprived the Portuguese of the victory they required to confirm their place at the finals next year. . . . more . . .
Miller's tale keeps Scots hopes alive (Sep 07, 2005)
Kenny Miller scored a first-half double to keep Scotland's World Cup hopes alive with an impressive 2-1 win over Norway. . . . more . . .
Poland put one foot into World Cup finals (Sep 07, 2005)
Poland's Maciej Zurawski scored the winner in a 1-0 victory over Wales which has almost certainly propelled them into next year's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Toni's hat-trick puts Italy on brink of qualification (Sep 07, 2005)
Luca Toni scored a hat-trick as Italy thrashed Belarus 4-1 to move to the brink of qualification for the 2006 World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Switzerland ease past Cyprus 3-1 to keep World Cup dreams alive (Sep 07, 2005)
Switzerland kept their hopes of World Cup qualification alive after a comfortable 3-1 victory against Group 4 also rans Cyprus. . . . more . . .
England suffer humiliation in Belfast (Sep 07, 2005)
England's hopes of World Cup qualification suffered a serious and humiliating blow in Belfast when Sven-Goran Eriksson's side slumped to a 1-0 defeat to Northern Ireland. . . . more . . .
Chinese ace told to prove he's hard enough for Glasgow (Sep 07, 2005)
China defender Du Wei has been warned he must prove he is tough enough to survive in Scotland's Premier League. . . . more . . .
We mustn't get suffocated says Zidane (Sep 07, 2005)
French talisman Zinedine Zidane said it was vital that France did not allow their game to be stifled by the Republic of Ireland in their crucial 2006 World Cup qualifier on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Serbia's Kezman strike stuns Spain (Sep 07, 2005)
Serbia and Montenegro moved a step closer to the World Cup finals next summer thanks to a slightly fortunate 1-1 draw over Group seven rivals Spain. . . . more . . .
Security beefed up in Belfast ahead of England clash (Sep 07, 2005)
Thousands of police officers were on the streets of Belfast ahead of the World Cup qualifier between hosts Northern Ireland and England. . . . more . . .
Henry moment of brilliance stuns Irish (Sep 07, 2005)
A brilliant goal by Thierry Henry gave 1998 World Cup winners France a vital 1-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland in their 2006 World Cup qualifier and left the Irish with a mountain to climb. . . . more . . .
Germany miss Kahn experience says Ballack (Sep 07, 2005)
German international captain Michael Ballack believes the absence of his Bayern Munich team-mate Oliver Kahn has deprived the German squad of some much-needed experience. . . . more . . .
Cole to pay price of Owen comeback (Sep 07, 2005)
Midfielder Joe Cole looks likely to be dropped to make way for Michael Owen when England take on Northern Ireland in Wednesday night's World Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .
Ice-cool Lippi starts to feel the heat (Sep 07, 2005)
Italy's normally unflappable coach Marcello Lippi is showing signs of stress ahead of his side's crunch World Cup qualifier away to Belarus. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo injury doubt as Woodgate presses claim (Sep 07, 2005)
A groin strain is likely to force Ronaldo to miss out when Real Madrid play their opening home game of the new season against promoted Celta Vigo. . . . more . . .
Scotland hoping for smash and grab match in Norway (Sep 07, 2005)
There was a time when hordes of Vikings from Norway invaded Scotland to plunder but Scotland manager Walter Smith will be hoping the roles will be reversed when the two sides meet in a crucial World Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .
Spain hit by Morientes injury (Sep 06, 2005)
Spain suffered a huge blow on the eve of their crucial 2006 World Cup qualifier with group seven leaders Serbia and Montenegro when it was revealed striker Fernando Morientes would not play because of a left leg injury. . . . more . . .
French golden oldies set for Irish toasting (Sep 06, 2005)
Ireland winger Andy Reid believes an ageing French team is facing a World Cup disaster in Dublin on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Turkey lose star midfielder Basturk (Sep 06, 2005)
Star midfielder Yildiray Basturk is out of Turkey's vital World Cup qualifier in Ukraine opn Wednesday after picking up a knee injury in last Saturday's 2-2 draw with Denmark. . . . more . . .
We mustn't get suffocated says Zidane (Sep 06, 2005)
French talisman Zinedine Zidane said it was vital that France did not allow their game to be stifled by the Republic of Ireland in their crucial 2006 World Cup qualifier on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Injury blow for Italy's Del Piero (Sep 06, 2005)
Italy's Alessandro Del Piero has been ruled out of Wednesday's crunch Group Five World Cup qualifier away to Belarus after suffering a right thigh strain. . . . more . . .
Beckham calls on respect for Northern Ireland (Sep 06, 2005)
England captain David Beckham has warned of underestimating Northern Ireland when the two sides meet at Windsor Park for a World Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .
Pressure on England: Quinn (Sep 06, 2005)
Northern Ireland striker James Quinn is aiming to get the better of Rio Ferdinand on Wednesday - for the second time. . . . more . . .
Let me in, pleads Owen (Sep 06, 2005)
Michael Owen believes England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson cannot overlook him when he names his side for Wednesday's World Cup qualifier in Northern Ireland. . . . more . . .
Mexicans set to join US in clinching trip to Germany (Sep 06, 2005)
A Mexican squad still smarting from an away loss to arch-rival United States can clinch a trip to Germany for the 2006 World Cup football finals with merely a draw at home to winless Panama. . . . more . . .
Australia's turn to host World Cup in 2018: FFA (Sep 06, 2005)
Australia will lobby FIFA to stage the 2018 World Cup, Football Federation Australia (FFA) chief executive John O'Neill revealed. . . . more . . .
Australia sweat on draw in final leg against South American team (Sep 06, 2005)
Australia will be anxiously looking for a favourable draw in the second leg of their World Cup qualifying match with a South American opponent in November when FIFA decides this weekend on the playing order. . . . more . . .
FIFA set for court challenge in club versus country conflict (Sep 06, 2005)
Football's world governing body, FIFA, is facing a court challenge in a club versus country conflict after Belgian side Sporting Charleroi started legal proceedings alleging the body was abusing its dominant market position. . . . more . . .
Kerr's modesty blazing a trail for Irish football (Sep 06, 2005)
Republic of Ireland manager Brian Kerr is not your average international football manager as France may well discover in Wednesday's crucial 2006 World Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann standing firm in goalkeeping saga (Sep 06, 2005)
The soap-opera like goalkeeping debate in Germany continues to fill the country's newspapers with the discussions about Jens Lehmann and Oliver Kahn overshadowing Saturday's 2-0 defeat in Slovakia. . . . more . . .
Irish marksman shows Healy-ing powers ahead of England clash (Sep 05, 2005)
Northern Ireland's bid to record a shock victory over England in Wednesday's 2006 World Cup qualifier received a boost when it was announced that record goalscorer David Healy will be fit. . . . more . . .
Scots call up Severin for Norway crunch (Sep 05, 2005)
Scotland set off for a make-or-break World Cup qualifier in Norway with manager Walter Smith sweating over the fitness of his three first-choice midfielders. . . . more . . .
PSG hit by FIFA double player ban (Sep 05, 2005)
World football ruling body FIFA have thrown a spanner into the works of Paris Saint Germain after revoking a temporary permit which allowed two promising Uruguayan players to be transferred to the club. . . . more . . .
Kerr plays down alleged bust-up with Roy Keane (Sep 05, 2005)
Republic of Ireland boss Brian Kerr made an unscheduled statement amid press reports of weekend drinking among a group of his players, mainly centring around striker Robbie Keane. . . . more . . .
Beckham's still the man to watch: Gillespie (Sep 05, 2005)
Northern Ireland winger Keith Gillespie believes former Manchester United team-mate David Beckham could single-handedly wreck their hopes of a famous victory in Wednesday's World Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .
England look to Owen to boost World Cup morale (Sep 05, 2005)
Michael Owen is set to return to England's line-up against Northern Ireland on Wednesday as Sven-Goran Eriksson seeks to quell mounting scepticism about his side's chances of World Cup glory next summer. . . . more . . .
Wenger gets transfer boost as Gunners cash reserves increase (Sep 05, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will have significant funds at his disposal in the January transfer window after annual financial results revealed that the club's cash reserves have increased nearly four-fold to 63.1 million pounds (116.6 million dollars). . . . more . . .
Retired referee Collina may blow whistle in J-League (Sep 05, 2005)
Pierluigi Collina, arguably the world's best football referee, who abruptly announced his retirement last week, will be asked to officiate in the Japanese professional league. . . . more . . .
Anthuenis days numbered as Belgium coach (Sep 05, 2005)
Aime Anthuenis's days as Belgium coach are numbered after the national team's 1-0 defeat in Bosnia at the weekend ended their bid to reach next year's World Cup finals in Germany, national football federation president Jan Peeters said. . . . more . . .
World Cup glory still on cards says Klinsmann (Sep 05, 2005)
Despite losing 2-0 to minnows Slovakia, Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann insists his team are still capable of winning the 2006 World Cup on home soil. . . . more . . .
Away fans tarnishing Germany's World Cup image (Sep 05, 2005)
With the 2006 World Cup just nine months away hosts Germany have anything but a clean-cut image after a section of unruly away supporters rioted in Saturday's 2-0 friendly defeat by Slovakia in Bratislava. . . . more . . .
Cameroon snatch late winner in World Cup thriller (Sep 04, 2005)
Alioum Saidou was the Cameroon hero as they edged Ivory Coast 3-2 to close on a fifth consecutive appearance at the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Brazil breeze into World Cup finals (Sep 04, 2005)
Brazil qualified for next year's World Cup finals with an Adriano-inspired 5-0 mauling of Chile. . . . more . . .
Eriksson confident despite Wales scare (Sep 04, 2005)
The performance may have been less than inspiring, but Sven-Goran Eriksson was determined to play up the positives after England's 1-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Wales in Cardiff. . . . more . . .
Zambian fans riot, beat up Senegalese nationals after losing football match (Sep 04, 2005)
Zambian football fans went on the rampage and staged riots on Saturday night after their team was beaten 1-0 by Senegal in a World Cup qualifying match. . . . more . . .
Scotland can still make World Cup Finals says Smith (Sep 04, 2005)
Scotland manager Walter Smith believes his side can still clinch a place in the World Cup Finals next summer after their 1-1 draw at home to Italy. . . . more . . .
Cisse and Thuram doubtful for Irish clash (Sep 04, 2005)
France were waiting anxiously on injured duo Djibril Cisse and Lilian Thuram, who are both rated doubtful for Wednesday's crucial 2006 World Cup qualifier with the Republic of Ireland. . . . more . . .
We don't fear England, says Northern Ireland goalie (Sep 04, 2005)
Northern Ireland goalkeeper Maik Taylor insisted that they hold no fear of England going into next week's World Cup qualifier here. . . . more . . .
We'll do it our way against French: Kerr (Sep 04, 2005)
If Ireland boss Brian Kerr is worried about a France team with three of its most gifted players back in the side, he certainly isn't showing it just days away from their crucial 2006 World Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .
Beckham opens door for Owen return against Northern Ireland (Sep 04, 2005)
England skipper David Beckham insisted that Michael Owen would be welcomed back into the side to face Northern Ireland in their World Cup qualifier in Belfast. . . . more . . .
Northern Ireland end long wait for competitive win (Sep 03, 2005)
Northern Ireland ended a miserable four-year run without a competitive victory by beating Azerbaijan 2-0 in a World Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .
England squeeze past battling Wales (Sep 03, 2005)
It was hardly the comfortable victory that many predicted, but thanks to Joe Cole's second-half strike, England beat Wales 1-0 to keep their World Cup qualifying campaign on track. . . . more . . .
Tunisia hero Guemamdia keeps Eagles soaring (Sep 03, 2005)
Haykel Guemamdia was the toast of Tunisia again after scoring a goal and setting up the second in a 2-0 victory over Kenya here which moved the African champions to within a point of their third successive World Cup appearance. . . . more . . .
Scots revive hopes after deserved draw with Italy (Sep 03, 2005)
Scotland revived their slender hopes of making it to the World Cup Finals in Germany next summer with an impressive performance against Italy which ended in a 1-1 draw. . . . more . . .
Ukraine nudge closer to World Cup finals (Sep 03, 2005)
Ukraine failed to clinch their first ever World Cup place after being held 1-1 by hosts Georgia in a Group Two 2006 qualifier here. . . . more . . .
Spain edge Canada in friendly (Sep 03, 2005)
Spain edged out visiting Canada 2-1 in a friendly to give themselves a boost of sorts ahead of next week's crucial World Cup qualifier against Serbia. . . . more . . .
Diouf goal takes Senegal to top (Sep 03, 2005)
El-Hadji Diouf scored a rare goal to give Senegal a 1-0 win over Zambia and top spot in a World Cup qualifying group. . . . more . . .
Viduka scores twice as Solomons prove none the wiser (Sep 03, 2005)
Mark Viduka scored twice as Australia put seven past hapless Solomon Islands to take a grip of their Oceania World Cup qualifier. . . . more . . .
Cisse on target for Zidane-inspired French (Sep 03, 2005)
Zinedine Zidane came out of international retirement to help inspire France to a convincing 3-0 win over the Faroe Islands and give Raymond Domenech renewed belief they will qualify for the World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Mourinho praises African football talent (Sep 03, 2005)
Chelsea's Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho praised Africa's football talent, saying top players continue to emerge from the impoverished continent. . . . more . . .
Scotland hold Italy to revive World Cup hopes (Sep 03, 2005)
Scotland held Italy to a 1-1 draw at Hampden to keep alive their slender hopes of making it to the World Cup Finals in Germany next summer. . . . more . . .
Stalemate in Basel as Israel hold Swizterland (Sep 03, 2005)
Israel came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw with Switzerland, a result that suited neither country especially in their bid to qualify for next year's World Cup. . . . more . . .
US-Mexico winner set to qualify for World Cup finals (Sep 02, 2005)
Mexico and the United States meet here Saturday in a World Cup 2006 North American qualifying showdown in which the winner will clinch a trip to Germany next year. . . . more . . .
Downing ruled out for three months (Sep 02, 2005)
Middlesbrough and England midfielder Stewart Downing has been ruled out of action for at least three months after undergoing surgery on his right knee. . . . more . . .
Becks denies player revolt forced England shake-up (Sep 02, 2005)
David Beckham has hit out at claims a player revolt forced England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson into reshuffling his line-up for the World Cup qualifier against Wales here on Saturday. . . . more . . .
AC Milan captain Maldini pondering retirement (Sep 01, 2005)
AC Milan captain Paolo Maldini said he has not ruled out retiring before his contract runs out in 2007. . . . more . . .
Mourinho unveils Chelsea five-year plan (Sep 01, 2005)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has outlined his five-year plan to make the Londoners one of world football's major clubs. . . . more . . .
French defender Bernard joins Rangers (Sep 01, 2005)
French leftback Olivier Bernard, who was let go by relegated Southampton, has signed a two-year contract with Glasgow Rangers, the reigning Scottish champions said. . . . more . . .
Goal-line technology set for test (Sep 01, 2005)
World soccer chief Sepp Blatter has confirmed that goal-line technology will be used in the 2006 World Cup if a trial run at the Under-17 world championships in Peru proves a success. . . . more . . .
Owen ready to rekindle English passion (Sep 01, 2005)
Michael Owen is eager to return to Premiership action following his transfer from Spanish giants Real Madrid to Newcastle. . . . more . . .
Italy captain Cannavaro questions FIFA ranking system (Sep 01, 2005)
Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro has questioned the ranking system used by FIFA which could see the Azzurri unseeded should they qualify for next year's World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
