Archive soccer news from around the world
Ancelotti applauds Kaka's Ballon d'Or win (Nov 30, 2007)
AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has already congratulated his star Brazilian striker Kaka for what appears to be his anticipated collection of the European Footballer of the Year award. . . . more . . .
Champions League format reformed for 2009/12 (Nov 30, 2007)
A reform of the European Champions League for the period 2009/12 was agreed by the UEFA executive committee on Friday night. . . . more . . .
Moyes too young for Scotland job (Nov 30, 2007)
Everton boss David Moyes has revealed he would like to manage his native Scotland one day but only when he is older. . . . more . . .
Hodgson quits as Finland coach (Nov 30, 2007)
Roy Hodgson has resigned as national football team coach, the Football Association of Finland said Friday. . . . more . . .
Injured Beasley facing months on sidelines (Nov 30, 2007)
Rangers winger DaMarcus Beasley will undergo surgery on his injured knee in the United States and is facing several months on the sidelines, manager Walter Smith confirmed Friday. . . . more . . .
South Africa ditch McCarthy for Nations Cup (Nov 30, 2007)
South Africa have ditched star striker Benni McCarthy for the 2008 African Nations Cup in Ghana. . . . more . . .
Rooney set for Fulham comeback (Nov 30, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to unleash Wayne Rooney on Fulham on Monday following the Manchester United striker's rapid recovery from an ankle injury. . . . more . . .
Mourinho has profile for England job, says Eriksson (Nov 30, 2007)
Former England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson admitted Friday that he could "understand the clamour" for Jose Mourinho to become England's next manager. . . . more . . .
15,000 scream as Beckham trains on Wellington football pitch (Nov 30, 2007)
David Beckham proved his superstar status Friday as he trained in front of more than 15,000 screaming school children ahead of a weekend friendly between his Los Angeles Galaxy team and the Wellington Phoenix. . . . more . . .
Japan picks Okada as coach (Nov 30, 2007)
The Japan Football Association said Friday it has picked Takeshi Okada, who coached Japan at their first World Cup in 1998, to return to the job to replace the ailing Ivica Osim. . . . more . . .
Advocaat says sorry for reneging on Australian soccer contract (Nov 30, 2007)
Dutchman Dick Advocaat has apologised for reneging on a coaching contract and leaving Australia without a national coach two months out from qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup, reports said Friday. . . . more . . .
US, Japan and Australian teams to vie for Pan-Pacific title (Nov 29, 2007)
England star David Beckham will be the star attraction next February when top US, Japanese and Australian football clubs meet here in the debut of a new tournament, the Pan-Pacific Championship. . . . more . . .
Tottenham earn their spurs, Bayern drop points (Nov 29, 2007)
Tottenham Hotspur and Bolton gave their fans a UEFA Cup night to remember Thursday as Bayern Munich were held to a draw by Portuguese minnows Sporting Braga. . . . more . . .
England ask Beckenbauer and Platini for manager advice (Nov 29, 2007)
Germany great Franz Beckenbauer and UEFA President Michel Platini are just two of the leading football figures who have already been consulted by Football Association (FA) chief executive Brian Barwick as he tries to find a successor to Steve McClaren as England coach. . . . more . . .
Namibia coach quits ahead of Nations Cup (Nov 29, 2007)
Ben Bamfuchile said Thursday he had quit as coach of shock 2008 African Nations Cup qualifiers Namibia. . . . more . . .
China's Zheng Zhi enjoying Charlton challenge (Nov 29, 2007)
Zheng Zhi, the China captain, may still be struggling to get to grips with the English language but the midfielder insists communication on the field is proving less of a problem as he gets used to life with Charlton Athletic. . . . more . . .
Old Firm get favourable Scottish Cup draw (Nov 29, 2007)
Holders Celtic and their arch-rivals Rangers will begin their Scottish Cup campaigns at home to lower league opposition following the fourth round draw here Thursday. . . . more . . .
Real boss rules out winter recruitment drive (Nov 29, 2007)
Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon on Thursday ruled out a recruitment drive over the winter break despite their shock 3-2 loss to Werder Bremen in Champions League action. . . . more . . .
Middlesbrough's Arca on target but Mido suffers setback (Nov 29, 2007)
Middlesbrough midfielder Julio Arca looks set for a Premier League return after three months out with a medial ligament injury but Egyptian striker Mido faces an extended stay on the sidelines. . . . more . . .
Manager Strachan hails Celtic hero Donati (Nov 29, 2007)
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan hailed his side's 2-1 Champions League victory over Shakhtar Donetsk as their best ever win - and match winner Massimo Donati as a hero. . . . more . . .
Beckham greeted by fans in rugby territory (Nov 29, 2007)
Football superstar David Beckham landed in a rugby stronghold Thursday but it was hardly enemy territory as hundreds of fans gave him a rapturous welcome in New Zealand's capital. . . . more . . .
Benitez plays peacemaker after winning battle for Liverpool's affections (Nov 29, 2007)
Rafa Benitez resisted the temptation to gloat after Liverpool's 4-1 win over Porto gave a substantial boost to his power struggle with the club's American owners. . . . more . . .
FIFA deal opens sport world to Indian IT firms (Nov 29, 2007)
Indian IT firms used to selling their services to banks and manufacturers are now looking to the world of sport for new business, after a breakthrough deal with football's governing body FIFA. . . . more . . .
Redknapp seething at corruption probe arrest (Nov 29, 2007)
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp insisted Thursday he was not the focus of a police probe into corruption in English football as he hit out against his arrest. . . . more . . .
Bremen continue Real's German misery (Nov 29, 2007)
Werder Bremen upset nine-time titleholders Real Madrid 3-2 to leave Champions League Group C too close to call with one match remaining. . . . more . . .
Bobo blast gives Besiktas lifeline (Nov 29, 2007)
A late goal from Brazilian forward Bobo threw Besiktas a lifeline on Wednesday as the Turkish giants earned a valuable 2-1 victory over Marseille. . . . more . . .
Jewell is new coach at Derby (Nov 28, 2007)
Premier League strugglers Derby County on Wednesday named former Wigan coach Paul Jewell as their new manager. . . . more . . .
Donati Celtic's Champions League hero (Nov 28, 2007)
Massimo Donati was Celtic's Champions League hero as his injury time strike secured a 2-1 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Torres bails out Benitez (Nov 28, 2007)
Fernando Torres kept Liverpool's Champions League rescue mission on course and did Rafa Benitez a favour in the process as his double strike inspired a 4-1 win over FC Porto on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Milan squeeze into Champions League knockout round (Nov 28, 2007)
AC Milan secured qualification to the Champions League knock-out stages after a battling 1-1 draw against Benfica here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Drogba leads Chelsea on winter stroll into knockout phase (Nov 28, 2007)
Chelsea produced a dominant performance to outclass Norwegian champions Rosenborg 4-0 on Wednesday and guarantee they will top Group B and reach the knockout phase of the Champions League for the sixth straight time. . . . more . . .
Portuguese football bosses back Scolari (Nov 28, 2007)
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) on Wednesday gave their full backing to national coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, congratulating the Brazilian for leading them to a fourth consecutive European championship finals. . . . more . . .
Palermo fans barred from Sicilian derby (Nov 28, 2007)
Away supporters have been barred from the potentially volatile Sicilian derby between Catania and Palermo this weekend. . . . more . . .
British police question Redknapp in football bribes probe (Nov 28, 2007)
British police questioned Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp and four others Wednesday as part of an investigation into alleged corruption, the English Premier League club said. . . . more . . .
Van Gaal relishes prospect of managing England (Nov 28, 2007)
Louis van Gaal has reiterated his desire to become the new England manager and pointed Wednesday to a release clause in his contract as coach of AZ Alkmaar should the FA come knocking. . . . more . . .
Juninho confident Lyon can steal qualification from Rangers (Nov 28, 2007)
Lyon captain Juninho believes his side can get the Champions League victory they need when they travel to Ibrox Park on December 12 to meet Rangers in the battle for second spot in Group E. . . . more . . .
McLeish confirmed as Birmingham manager (Nov 28, 2007)
Alex McLeish was confirmed as the new manager of Birmingham City at a news conference held by the Engish Premier League club on Wednesday, just a day after he'd resigned his post as Scotland coach. . . . more . . .
Asian player of the year Al Qahtani wants Europe move (Nov 28, 2007)
Saudi Arabian goal-machine Yasser Al Qahtani, nicknamed "The Sniper", was Wednesday named Asian player of the year and said he wanted to move to Europe, with Middlesbrough leading the chase. . . . more . . .
Jewell is new coach at Derby (Nov 28, 2007)
Premier League strugglers Derby County on Wednesday named former Wigan coach Paul Jewell as their new manager. . . . more . . .
SKorea shortlists three candidates for coach: report (Nov 28, 2007)
South Korea's football governing body has shortlisted three candidates, including former Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier, to coach the national team, a news report said Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Ferguson plans Italian vacation for United (Nov 28, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson admitted Cristiano Ronaldo's last-gasp winner against Sporting Lisbon will allow him to let his Manchester United stars put their feet up. . . . more . . .
McLeish exit leaves Scotland with familiar problem (Nov 28, 2007)
Alex McLeish left Scotland searching for their third manager of the year after he resigned from his post. . . . more . . .
'Come and get me', Mourinho tells England (Nov 28, 2007)
Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is willing to consider the vacant position as manager of England's national team, he told The Sun tabloid in an early edition of its Wednesday paper. . . . more . . .
Rampant Roma douse Dynamo's UEFA Cup hopes (Nov 27, 2007)
Roma breezed into the Champions' League knockout phase and ended the UEFA Cup hopes of Dynamo Kiev after thrashing the Ukrainian champions 4-1 in their group F clash here on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Barcelona through as Lyon grab a lifeline (Nov 27, 2007)
Barcelona secured qualification for the knockout phase of the Champions League Tuesday as group E winners after French champions Lyon twice came from behind to level 2-2 with the Spanish giants. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo's stunner clinches top spot for United (Nov 27, 2007)
Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo hit a stoppage-time stunner that clinched a 2-1 win over Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday and ensured his side will finish top of Champions League Group F. . . . more . . .
Rangers lose but are still alive (Nov 27, 2007)
Rangers lost 3-2 to battling VfB Stuttgart here on Tuesday but can still reach the Champions League knockout phase if they draw with Lyon in their final group game. . . . more . . .
Sevilla end Arsenal's unbeaten streak but both qualify (Nov 27, 2007)
Sevilla gained revenge for their humiliating 3-0 defeat by Arsenal in the opening game of this season's Champions League when they turned the tables with a 3-1 win here on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Inter into knock-out round after Fenerbahce win (Nov 27, 2007)
Inter Milan secured top spot in group G and a place in the Champions League knock-out phase with a 3-0 victory over Fenerbahce at the San Siro here on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Turkish test toughens up Porto for Liverpool (Nov 27, 2007)
Porto midfielder Ricardo Quaresma believes his team experience of winning away to Turkish giants Besiktas will help his side cope with the challenge of the Anfield crowd when they face Liverpool in the Champions League here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Chelsea charged over referee protest (Nov 27, 2007)
Chelsea have been charged with failing to control their players after Michael Essien was sent-off during their 2-0 Premier League win away to Derby last weekend. . . . more . . .
Benitez plays down talk of Liverpool exit (Nov 27, 2007)
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez attempted to calm the speculation surrounding his future ahead of the key Champions League clash with Porto, as goalkeeper Jose Reina threw his backing behind his boss. . . . more . . .
McCarthy set for Blackburn return (Nov 27, 2007)
Benni McCarthy is available for Blackburn Rovers's Premier League match with Aston Villa at Ewood Park despite being injured last weekend. . . . more . . .
I'll stay at Juventus for rest of career, says Trezeguet (Nov 27, 2007)
France international striker David Trezeguet said he will stay at Italian giants Juventus for the rest of his career, Gazetta dello Sport reported on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
McLeish resignation paves way for Blues move (Nov 27, 2007)
Alex McLeish resigned Tuesday as coach of the Scotland national football team, the Scottish Football Association (SFA) said in a statement. . . . more . . .
Everton manager Moyes charged over referee remarks (Nov 27, 2007)
David Moyes became Tuesday the second Premiership manager in two days, after Sir Alex Ferguson, to be charged by the Football Association regarding comments criticising the performance of referee Mark Clattenburg. . . . more . . .
Beckham snags goal, yellow card in Galaxy loss (Nov 27, 2007)
David Beckham scored off one of his signature free-kicks and received a yellow card as under-prepared LA Galaxy were hammered 5-3 by Sydney FC in their exhibition match here Tuesday. . . . more . . .
'Mind your own business', Premier League tells Platini (Nov 27, 2007)
Europe's top football official, former Juventus midfield star Michel Platini, has been told by England's Premier League to "mind his own business." . . . more . . .
Japan in talks with Okada to return as coach (Nov 27, 2007)
The Japan Football Association said Tuesday it had entered talks with former national coach Takeshi Okada to return to the job to replace Ivica Osim, who suffered a stroke. . . . more . . .
SFA turns down approach for Scotland manager McLeish (Nov 27, 2007)
The Scottish Football Association (SFA) have rejected an official approach, believed to have come from Birmingham, to talk to national team manager Alex McLeish. . . . more . . .
European giants on brink of qualifying from Champions League groups (Nov 27, 2007)
Inter Milan, Barcelona, AS Roma and Rangers are on the brink of qualifying in Tuesday's Champions League group matches though Arsenal and Manchester United have already reached the knockout stages. . . . more . . .
Bad football proves to be good for Bayern's business (Nov 27, 2007)
Bayern Munich have shown how bad performances on the football pitch do not necessarily impact on a club's commercial success - as long as the cash registers keep pinging and the fans buy the shirts. . . . more . . .
Puyol wants nothing less than a win at Lyon (Nov 26, 2007)
Barcelona defender Carles Puyol has warned Lyon that the Catalan giants will not settle for anything less than a win in their Champions League group E clash here on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Birmingham to make McLeish approach - report (Nov 26, 2007)
Birmingham City are set to ask permission from the Scottish Football Association to talk to Scotland manager Alex McLeish about becoming their new boss, according to British media. . . . more . . .
Udinese to try out fan 'passport' (Nov 26, 2007)
Serie A club Udinese are to try out a fan passport - called a PassaSport - later this season in a bid to curb crowd violence. . . . more . . .
Celtic Cup to kick off in 2009 - report (Nov 26, 2007)
A 'Celtic Cup' featuring Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland could kick off in 2009 after the four federations agreed "in principle" to the idea on Monday. . . . more . . .
Tragedy draws attention to Brazil's unsafe stadiums (Nov 26, 2007)
A tragedy which led to the death of seven fans at the Fonte Nova stadium has drawn attention to the urgent need for venues be improved before football's 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil. . . . more . . .
Ferguson charged after raging at ref (Nov 26, 2007)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been charged by the Football Association (FA) after letting fly at referee Mark Clattenburg during the Red Devils' 1-0 Premier League defeat away to Bolton. . . . more . . .
Bruce feeling blue over Wigan delay (Nov 26, 2007)
Steve Bruce rounded on his former club Birmingham City when giving his first news conference as Wigan Athletic manager at the JJB Stadium here Monday. . . . more . . .
Beat Sporting and we can rest easy says Ferguson (Nov 26, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson has challenged his Manchester United players to make their final Champions League Group F clash against Roma meaningless next month by cementing top spot with victory against Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Riquelme agrees move to Boca Juniors (Nov 26, 2007)
Villarreal's Argentina international midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme has agreed a nine-million-euro deal with his club to move to Boca Juniors in his home country, the Spanish first division club said on Monday. . . . more . . .
Sagnol can leave Bayern if he wishes, coach says (Nov 26, 2007)
Bayern Munich coach Uli Hoeness said Monday that he would not stand in the way of French defender Willy Sagnol leaving the club if the player insisted. . . . more . . .
Ince towards replacing Davies at Derby - report (Nov 26, 2007)
Former Manchester United and England midfielder Paul Ince has emerged as a bookies favourite to take over from Billy Davies as manager of English Premier League basement club Derby County. . . . more . . .
World Cup draw delivers Asian 'group of death' (Nov 26, 2007)
Japan and South Korea might be smiling but it was a less than happy affair for Australia and China when the Asian qualifying draw was made for the 2010 World Cup here. . . . more . . .
Giggs warns Sporting to expect United backlash (Nov 26, 2007)
Ryan Giggs believes Manchester United's Champions League victory against Dynamo Kiev proves they can cope with the injury problems that threaten to derail their season. . . . more . . .
Beckham wants to play football for England again (Nov 26, 2007)
David Beckham says he is eager to help England qualify for the 2010 World Cup and claim his 100th international cap. . . . more . . .
Asian football chief urges one united bid for 2018 World Cup (Nov 26, 2007)
Asia's football chief Mohamed bin Hammam has urged just one Asian bid to maximise the confederation's chances of hosting the 2018 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Blackburn sweat over Benni soccer injury (Nov 26, 2007)
Blackburn face a nervous wait to see if Benni McCarthy faces a spell on the sidelines after the South Africa striker needed stitches for a knee gash during his side's 2-2 draw at Fulham. . . . more . . .
Croats wary of England out for football revenge (Nov 26, 2007)
Croatia coach Slaven Bilic has admitted he would rather have avoided facing an England squad bent on revenge in the qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Lyon cruising, but PSG crumble at Nice (Nov 25, 2007)
The future of Paris St Germain coach Paul Le Guen could become a big talking point in the French first division this week after Nice added to the club's growing list of defeats. . . . more . . .
Roma hit by absences for Kiev trip (Nov 25, 2007)
Roma's hopes of securing qualification to the Champions League knock-out stages have been hit by a triple injury blow. . . . more . . .
Hamburg move to within one point of Bayern (Nov 25, 2007)
Hamburg continued their impressive early season form to consolidate their third place in the Bundesliga with a 2-0 home win over struggling Rostock on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Villarreal miss top spot, Valencia downed (Nov 25, 2007)
Villarreal missed the chance to knock Real Madrid off the top of the Spanish championship following a 1-1 draw with Almeria on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Warnock rescues Rovers (Nov 25, 2007)
Blackburn defender Stephen Warnock scored a late equaliser to give Mark Hughes's side a 2-2 draw against Fulham on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Pirlo stunner saves Milan's blushes as Juve cruise (Nov 25, 2007)
AC Milan scraped a 2-1 victory at Cagliari on Sunday as a stunning Andrea Pirlo free-kick five minutes from time stole the points. . . . more . . .
West Ham's penalty save denies Spurs (Nov 25, 2007)
Robert Green rescued West Ham as he saved Jermain Defoe's stoppage time penalty to preserve a 1-1 draw against Tottenham on Sunday. . . . more . . .
England face Croatia again on road to 2010 (Nov 25, 2007)
England paid the price for their failure to reach Euro 2008 on Sunday when they were drawn with Croatia again in one of the toughest qualifying groups for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. . . . more . . .
Eto'o resumes training at Barcelona after injury (Nov 25, 2007)
Barcelona's Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o resumed team training Sunday after three months out injured, the club announced. . . . more . . .
Owen says fear factor stopped England qualifying (Nov 25, 2007)
Michael Owen admits England failed to qualify for Euro 2008 because the players have been unable to cope with the fear factor. . . . more . . .
Ferguson confirms Tevez will stay with Man Utd (Nov 25, 2007)
Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez will stay with the Premier League champions beyond his current loan deal, according to Sir Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .
James lets rip over McClaren's goalkeeping shambles (Nov 25, 2007)
David James has slammed sacked England coach Steve McClaren for his disastrous handling of the team's goalkeepers. . . . more . . .
Shattered England look for relief at World Cup draw (Nov 25, 2007)
A shattered England will be praying for a lucky break at the preliminary draw for the World Cup on Sunday after missing out on being among the top European seeds. . . . more . . .
FIFA to push ahead with player quotas plan (Nov 25, 2007)
FIFA President Sepp Blatter has vowed to press ahead with proposals to introduce a cap on the number of foreign players in club sides, despite opposition from leading clubs and the European Union (EU). . . . more . . .
Problems will not halt 'wonderful World Cup' says FIFA president (Nov 25, 2007)
Sepp Blatter defended Sunday the decision to bring the football World Cup to Africa for the first time, saying any organisational problems would be overcome and downplaying fears over crime. . . . more . . .
Beckham wants full game against Sydney FC (Nov 25, 2007)
English superstar David Beckham says he is close to full fitness for LA Galaxy's exhibition match with Sydney FC here on Tuesday and hopes to play the whole 90 minutes. . . . more . . .
My successor will benefit from my flop, says McClaren (Nov 25, 2007)
Sacked England coach Steve McClaren said his successor will benefit from his failure in the high-profile job. . . . more . . .
Gallas is Wenger's new fox in the box (Nov 25, 2007)
Arsene Wenger praised William Gallas's predatory instincts after the France defender opened up Arsenal's lead at the top of the Premier League. . . . more . . .
Benitez makes his point to Liverpool owners (Nov 25, 2007)
Liverpool's comfortable 3-0 victory at Newcastle has done nothing to alter manager Rafa Benitez's desire to bring in new players during the Premier League's transfer window in January. . . . more . . .
Chelsea hoping Drogba will be fit for Champions League (Nov 25, 2007)
Chelsea coach Avram Grant expects to have Didier Drogba available for this week's Champions League away game against Rosenborg, after the Ivory Coast striker was forced to sit out Saturday's comfortable and controversial 2-0 victory over Derby County at Pride Park. . . . more . . .
Furious Fergie faces date with the FA (Nov 25, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson faces an appointment with the English Football Assocation after being sent to the stands during his team's fiery 1-0 defeat to Bolton at the Reebok Stadium. . . . more . . .
Celts in good shape for Shakhtar (Nov 25, 2007)
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan believes his side's 3-0 win at home to Aberdeen has set them up perfectly for their crucial Champions League game on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Bojan-inspired Barca close gap on Real (Nov 24, 2007)
Ten-men Real Madrid allowed Barcelona to make up ground in the title race after stumbling to a 1-1 draw at Real Murcia on Saturday. . . . more . . .
My successor will benefit from my flop, says McClaren (Nov 24, 2007)
Sacked England coach Steve McClaren said his successor will benefit from his failure in the high-profile job. . . . more . . .
Benzema takes a knock as Lyon win at Rennes (Nov 24, 2007)
French champions Lyon bounced back from their humbling defeat to Marseille last time out with a commanding 2-0 win away to Rennes on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Unstoppable Inter stride on as Roma keep pace (Nov 24, 2007)
Back-up strikers Julio Cruz and David Suazo tore Atalanta apart as champions Inter Milan stretched their lead at the top of the Serie A table to three points with a narrow 2-1 victory on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Chelsea on cruise control despite Essien dismissal (Nov 24, 2007)
John Terry returned to banish some of his England frustrations as Chelsea strode to a 2-0 victory over Derby at Pride Park on Saturday, which was marred by Michael Essien's late red card. . . . more . . .
Arsenal late show sinks Wigan (Nov 24, 2007)
William Gallas was Arsenal's inspiration as Arsene Wenger's side extended their lead at the top of the Premier League with a 2-0 victory over Wigan on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Anelka stuns United as Fergie sees red (Nov 24, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson watched the second-half from the stands as Nicolas Anelka condemned Manchester United to a 1-0 defeat at Bolton on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Rampant Everton catch Black Cats napping (Nov 24, 2007)
Tim Cahill confirmed his return to full fitness by joining Ayegbeni Yakubu in scoring a brace for a rampant Everton in their 7-1 hammering of Sunderland here Saturday. . . . more . . .
Pompey roll back the years to give Birmingham the blues (Nov 24, 2007)
Portsmouth continued their flying start to the season with a 2-0 defeat of Birmingham on Saturday, their first top flight win at St. . . . more . . .
Villa give O'Neill the perfect present (Nov 24, 2007)
Martin O'Neill received immediate evidence that he was right to snub England for Aston Villa as his side won 3-0 at Middlesbrough on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Ireland breaks Reading hearts as City's home run continues (Nov 24, 2007)
A stunning injury-time winner from Stephen Ireland gave Manchester City a 2-1 victory over luckless Reading in the Premier League on Saturday and preserved the home team's 100-percent record at Eastlands. . . . more . . .
Kahn slams UEFA, FIFA over fixture schedule (Nov 24, 2007)
Bayern Munich captain Oliver Kahn has slammed football's governing bodies UEFA and FIFA for the extra workload handed to players involved in the recent qualifiers. . . . more . . .
German football coaches linked to vacant England job (Nov 24, 2007)
As the anticipation and speculation gathers surrounding who will be England's new manager, the list of contenders now contains an array of foreigners including two Germans, an Italian and a wily Portuguese. . . . more . . .
Ribery rocks Bayern back to winning ways (Nov 24, 2007)
France midfielder Franck Ribery provided the inspiration as Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich returned to winning ways with a 2-1 home win over VfL Wolfsburg. . . . more . . .
Liverpool manager Benitez tells US owners to show him the money (Nov 24, 2007)
Rafa Benitez warned Liverpool's American owners they must back him in the transfer window after his side romped to a 3-0 win at Newcastle on Saturday. . . . more . . .
South African rivals Chiefs and Pirates share spoils (Nov 24, 2007)
Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs drew 2-2 here Saturday as the highlight of the South African season focussed attention on Durban ahead of Sunday's World Cup draw. . . . more . . .
Celts crush Dons to stay top in SPL (Nov 24, 2007)
Celtic cruised to an easy 3-0 victory at home to Aberdeen to stay three points clear of Rangers at the top of the Scottish Premier League on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Woeful Newcastle make it easy for Liverpool (Nov 24, 2007)
Liverpool remain unbeaten in the Premier League after a 3-0 victory at Newcastle, whose manager Sam Allardyce is under increasing pressure after his team offered little resistance on the way to another alarming setback. . . . more . . .
AC Milan striker Ronaldo to start against Cagliari (Nov 24, 2007)
Brazilian superstar Ronaldo will make his first appearance of the season for AC Milan by starting Sunday's match at Cagliari, coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed on Saturday. . . . more . . .
South Africa to get 120,000 free tickets for World Cup 2010 (Nov 24, 2007)
Ticket prices for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa will range from 20 to 900 dollars, while 120,000 seats will be given away for free, organisers announced on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Away supporters hit by crowd violence (Nov 24, 2007)
The recent wave of crowd violence in Italy has hit away fans hard with only four grounds open to visiting supporters during Saturday and Sunday's first division programme. . . . more . . .
FIFA signs up India's Satyam as IT services provider (Nov 24, 2007)
Software group Satyam has become FIFA's first major sponsor from India after being appointed as their official IT services provider for the next seven years. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann in the picture for England job (Nov 24, 2007)
Jurgen Klinsmann, who led Germany to the World Cup semi-finals in 2006, has hinted he might be interested in the vacant England manager's post if he gets certain conditions. . . . more . . .
FA consider Schuster for vacant England post: report (Nov 24, 2007)
The English Football Association are reportedly interested in German coach Bernd Schuster as the next England manager according to Spanish daily Marca on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Foreign coach like Capello best for England job: Venables (Nov 24, 2007)
Terry Venables reckons the job of England manager job may be more suited to a foreigner like Fabio Capello, the former England boss wrote in The Sun newspaper on Saturday. . . . more . . .
FIFA president Blatter urges workers not to wreck World Cup (Nov 24, 2007)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter urged South African construction workers on Saturday not to wreck the 2010 World Cup, saying the successful staging of the tournament lay in their hands. . . . more . . .
Decision time for Lyon over unsettled Baros (Nov 24, 2007)
Unsettled Czech striker Milan Baros should know within the next two weeks whether he will quit French champions Lyon, his agent told Saturday's edition of the Czech daily Sport. . . . more . . .
Scolari planning to see out Portugal contract (Nov 23, 2007)
Luiz Felipe Scolari insisted Friday that he intends to see out his contract as Portugal coach despite being linked with the vacant England manager's job. . . . more . . .
Leeds demand court hearing (Nov 23, 2007)
League One club Leeds have written to the Football Association (FA) requesting the matter of their 15-point deduction be referred to the High Court rather than FA arbitration. . . . more . . .
Fergie reveals Anelka interest (Nov 23, 2007)
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that he tried to buy much-travelled French international forward Nicolas Anelka several times. . . . more . . .
Terry backing Mourinho for England job (Nov 23, 2007)
England captain John Terry admitted Friday that he would love to play for the national team under former manager Jose Mourinho. . . . more . . .
Brazil's Lula in talks with Scolari over football exodus (Nov 23, 2007)
Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Friday met with 2002 World Cup winning coach Luiz Felipe Scolari to discuss the setting up of a commission aimed at stemming the exodus of footballers to foreign clubs. . . . more . . .
Bruce confirmed as Wigan boss (Nov 23, 2007)
Wigan have confirmed that Steve Bruce will take over as manager on Monday. . . . more . . .
Ferguson blasts FA for hasty McClaren sacking (Nov 23, 2007)
Sir Alex Ferguson believes that the English Football Assocition (FA) were too quick to dispense with Steve McClaren's services. . . . more . . .
Capello 'very interested' in vacant England job (Nov 23, 2007)
Italian veteran coach Fabio Capello has confirmed he is "very interested" in taking over as England manager following the sacking of Steve McClaren on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Cape Town to host World Cup finals draw (Nov 23, 2007)
Cape Town is to stage the draw for the finals of the 2010 football World Cup in South Africa, tournament organisers said on Friday. . . . more . . .
Man Utd midfielder O'Shea extends contract until 2012 (Nov 23, 2007)
Republic of Ireland international John O'Shea signed a three-year contract extension with Manchester United on Friday which will keep him at Old Trafford until 2012. . . . more . . .
Eriksson says Asia will produce new Maradona: report (Nov 23, 2007)
Manchester City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson says he expects Asia will produce one of the world's next great footballers of the likes of Diego Maradona. . . . more . . .
Tunisian side say their African Cup opponents should avoid final (Nov 23, 2007)
CS Sfaxien of Tunisia captain Abdelkrim Nafti says Al-Merreikh of Sudan are wasting time turning up for the second leg of the African Confederation Cup final Saturday. . . . more . . .
Asian football champions Iraq in 'chaos' ahead of World Cup qualifiers (Nov 23, 2007)
Four months after uniting their war-ravaged country by winning the Asian Cup, the Iraqi football team is "in chaos" as they prepare for World Cup qualifying. . . . more . . .
Aston Villa manager rules himself out of coaching England (Nov 23, 2007)
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has ruled himself out of the running for the vacant England manager's position, according to reports Friday. . . . more . . .
Argentina remain top of FIFA rankings (Nov 23, 2007)
Argentina remained top of the FIFA rankings for November, released by world football's ruling body on Friday, but Brazil and Italy have closed the gap on the top ranked team. . . . more . . .
Eriksson says Asia will produce world's next great footballers, report (Nov 23, 2007)
Manchester City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson says he expects Asia will produce one of the world's next great footballers of the likes of Diego Maradona. . . . more . . .
Beckham ready to play for foreign England coach (Nov 23, 2007)
David Beckham believes a foreign manager is likely to replace Steve McClaren as England coach. . . . more . . .
Vietnam court reduces sentences of football match-fixing referees (Nov 23, 2007)
A Vietnamese appeals court has reduced or suspended the prison terms of six football referees and officials jailed in July for corruption and match-fixing, a court clerk said Friday. . . . more . . .
South Africa looks to silence sceptics at World Cup draw (Nov 23, 2007)
South Africa's ability to stage the world's most-widely watched sporting event will undergo intensive scrutiny on Sunday when it hosts the qualifying draw for the 2010 football World Cup. . . . more . . .
Govt watchdog calls for curb on Serie A fans travelling (Nov 22, 2007)
Italy's sports security watchdog on Thursday recommended the limitation of movement of fans from five Serie A clubs - Inter Milan, Napoli, Lazio, Juventus and Genoa - to fixtures on December 1 and 2. . . . more . . .
Crouch - We weren't good enough (Nov 22, 2007)
Peter Crouch has admitted England weren't good enough to qualify for Euro 2008. . . . more . . .
British PM backs return of Home Nations championship (Nov 22, 2007)
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said Thursday he would favour the return of the Home Nations tournament after all four British sides failed to reach the 2008 European Championships. . . . more . . .
Allardyce not interested in England job (Nov 22, 2007)
Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce insists he is not interested in succeeding Steve McClaren as England coach. . . . more . . .
Worthington uncertain over his future (Nov 22, 2007)
Northern Ireland manager Nigel Worthington admits he is unsure of his future after his side's heroic effort to reach Euro 2008 ended in failure. . . . more . . .
Beckham counting on McClaren successor for 100 club membership (Nov 22, 2007)
David Beckham has vowed to continue his quest to win a century of caps for England under whoever succeeds Steve McClaren as head coach. . . . more . . .
Russia jubilant over 'miracle' Euro finals berth (Nov 22, 2007)
Russia celebrated Thursday their qualification for the Euro 2008 finals, praising Croatia's glittering performance at Wembley and Russia manager Guus Hiddink. . . . more . . .
No complaints from McClaren after England sacking (Nov 22, 2007)
Steve McClaren admitted he could have no complaints after being sacked as England coach. . . . more . . .
Australia, Japan, South Korea all Beijing bound (Nov 22, 2007)
Asian powerhouses Japan and South Korea will be joined by regional newcomers Australia at the Beijing Olympics football competition next year after coming through Wednesday's final qualifying round. . . . more . . .
Press pound England boss (Nov 22, 2007)
Britain's newspapers savaged Steve McClaren on Thursday after the England manager failed to guide his team to the 2008 European Championships. . . . more . . .
Mourinho favourite for next England boss (Nov 22, 2007)
Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is the favourite to be the next permanent England manager, bookmakers said Thursday. . . . more . . .
