The highlights of the match are available in the link
Wednesday 27 March 2013
Leo Messi has never scored against Bolivia with an assist to his name in four games his best contribution. Argentina will be looking to shake off their last humiliation on this very ground when they take on Bolivia tonight
Match starts at 20:00 GMT
Official Line up
Argentina
Romero; Peruzzi, Domínguez, Campagnaro, Basanta, Clemente Rodríguez; Banega, Mascherano, Di María; Messi; Palacio
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 1
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 2
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 3
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 4
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 5
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 6
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 7
Match starts at 20:00 GMT
Official Line up
Argentina
Romero; Peruzzi, Domínguez, Campagnaro, Basanta, Clemente Rodríguez; Banega, Mascherano, Di María; Messi; Palacio
Live Streams
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 1
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 2
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 3
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 4
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 5
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 6
Bolivia v Argentina Live Stream 7
Spain visit France tonight for a crucial Worldcup Qualifier. If Spain fails to win against their hosts tonight they will need a miracle to qualify directly for next year's worldcup to be held in Brazil. Spain has 8 points after 4 games where as France is the group leader with 10 points in the same number of games.
Match starts at 20:00 GMT
France's Official Lineup: (4-3-3)
Lloris; Jallet, Varane, Sakho, Evra; Cabaye, Pogba, Matuidi; Valbuena, Benzema, Ribéry
Spain's Official Lineup: (4-3-3)
Valdés - Arbeloa, Piqué, Ramos, Monreal - Busquets, Xabi Alonso, Xavi - Pedro, Iniesta, Villa.
Match starts at 20:00 GMT
France's Official Lineup: (4-3-3)
Lloris; Jallet, Varane, Sakho, Evra; Cabaye, Pogba, Matuidi; Valbuena, Benzema, Ribéry
Spain's Official Lineup: (4-3-3)
Valdés - Arbeloa, Piqué, Ramos, Monreal - Busquets, Xabi Alonso, Xavi - Pedro, Iniesta, Villa.
Live Streams
France v Spain Live Stream 1
France v Spain Live Stream 2
France v Spain Live Stream 3
France v Spain Live Stream 4
France v Spain Live Stream 5
France v Spain Live Stream 6
Tuesday 26 March 2013
Germany entertain Kazakhastan in a world cup friendly tonight at 19 : 45 GMT
Watch La Liga stars Mezut Ozil and Sami Khedira in action right here.
Official Germany XI vs. Kazakhstan: Neuer - Lahm, Mertesacker, Boateng, Schmelzer - Khedira, Gündogan - Müller, Özil, Reus - Götze
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Watch La Liga stars Mezut Ozil and Sami Khedira in action right here.
Official Germany XI vs. Kazakhstan: Neuer - Lahm, Mertesacker, Boateng, Schmelzer - Khedira, Gündogan - Müller, Özil, Reus - Götze
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As we speak Portugal faces Azerbaijan in a must win qualifier
The team sheets are:
Azerbaijan:
Agayev, Ramaldanov, Shukurov, Mammadov, Aliyev, Sadygov, Abışov, Hüseynov,Nadirov, Medvedev, Ismayilov.
Portugal:
Patrício, João Pereira, Pepe, Bruno Alves, Coentrão, Meireles, Veloso, Moutinho, Vieirinha, Postiga, Danny.
Below are the live stream links
Azerbaijan v Portugal live stream 1
Azerbaijan v Portugal live stream 2
Azerbaijan v Portugal live stream 3
The team sheets are:
Azerbaijan:
Agayev, Ramaldanov, Shukurov, Mammadov, Aliyev, Sadygov, Abışov, Hüseynov,Nadirov, Medvedev, Ismayilov.
Portugal:
Patrício, João Pereira, Pepe, Bruno Alves, Coentrão, Meireles, Veloso, Moutinho, Vieirinha, Postiga, Danny.
Below are the live stream links
Azerbaijan v Portugal live stream 1
Azerbaijan v Portugal live stream 2
Azerbaijan v Portugal live stream 3
Monday 25 March 2013
Saturday 23 March 2013
Bad news for Spain and FC
Barcelona fans. One of the best left backs
around, Jordi Alba has been injured in last night's qualifier against Finlad.
Jordi Alba has a small tear in his hamstring and has already been ruled out of
La Roja's next match against France, which is a huge blow to Spain's chances
for automatic qualification for the next year's Worldcup. It is worth mentioning
that when Alba
suffered the injury he had to stay in the match as there were no more substitutions .
Barcelona, who are already low on defenders, fear that Alba
could miss next weekend’s La Liga clash against Celta Vigo and possibly even
the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final match against Paris Saint
Germain.
Friday 22 March 2013
The situation at Malaga is
getting more and more difficult for Manuel Pellegrini and it could very well
prove to be his last season with the team. The owner Abdullah Al-Thani may be
upbeat about his project but it is not convincing enough for Manuel
Pellegrini to continue on the bench.
The Chilean coach has been saying for a long
time now that his future depends on the project club submits him. Things will get even more difficult for a
Pellegrini stay if the ruling is unfavorable from Court of Arbitration of Sport
(CAS) and Malaga is banned from playing in Europe next season.
Even then Pellegrini can stay in
case Malaga’s project convinces him and he is given a good script to follow. He
wants to have full backing of owners so that there is no repeat of the chaotic episodes
of this season. Pellegrini will require
more than words.
There is no doubting the fact that its
Pellegrini due to which Malaga has survived and are still competing valiantly
day in and day out. He is the reason why players of a certain level are still
coming to Malaga despite no backing from the owners.
The club insists that owner is not going to
leave the club. But the club needs to go
further rather than backwards. Remember
that Pellegrini is under contract until 2015 however there are many clubs that want
him. It is worth mentioning that future of most of the players at Malaga is
also tied to their manager.
On the other hand efforts are being
made behind the scenes to sell the club to a new investor. It is believed that
the owners offered the club to PSG owners who assured that they have no
interest in buying the club.
Despite their off-field problems, Pellegrini
has led the club to incredible quarterfinal place in Champions League and a
sixth place in La Liga standings. What makes this feat more amazing is that it
is the same club which has sold Cazorla, Monreal and Rondon and replaced them
with loan or free signings.
Only time will tell whether
Pellegrini will stay or go but it will not be the charismatic Chilean who will
suffer from departure.
Spain U21 are currently taking on Norway U21 in a friendly game
Starting eleven for Spain U21 with a 4-3-3 formation is
Joel Robles(Wigan)
Montoya(Barca)
Bartra(Barca)
Inigo Martinez(Sociedad)
Muniesa (Barca)
Koke(Athletico)
Illarramendi(Socieadad)
Thiago (Barca)
Tello(Barca)
Muniain(Bilbao)
Rodrigo(Benfica)
At the end of first half Spain U21 lead by 3-1 with two goals from Christian Telllo and one from Rodrigo
Watch the match live here Live Stream Spain U21 V Norway U21
Thursday 21 March 2013
According to various sources close to the Spanish national team, following eleven players will take to the field against Finland on Friday.
Valdes, Arbeloa, Pique, Ramos, Alba, Busquets, Iniesta, Febregas, Pedro, Cazorla, Villa.
Among the race to be Spanish No.2 behind Iker Casillas, it seems that its Barcelona's Victor Valdes who has won the race. Valdes will be looking to make good of a rare chance to start a match in a La Roja shirt after doing so well for Barcelona over the years.
In the absence of Carles Puyol, Ramos keeps his partnership at the back with Gerard Pique where as Arbeloa keeps his spot at right back brushing aside exciting Chelsea right back Azpilicueta. Both Xavi and Xabi are unlikely to start given their niggling problems and a midfield of Barca trio Busi, Cesc and Iniesta is on cards.
David Villa will return to the starting eleven after recent fine form for the blaugranas and he is likely to be joined by Pedro who has been in sensational form for Spain this season. Cazorla will most likely get the nod for the other attacking position ahead of other PremierLleague stars Silva and Mata.
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Valdes, Arbeloa, Pique, Ramos, Alba, Busquets, Iniesta, Febregas, Pedro, Cazorla, Villa.
Among the race to be Spanish No.2 behind Iker Casillas, it seems that its Barcelona's Victor Valdes who has won the race. Valdes will be looking to make good of a rare chance to start a match in a La Roja shirt after doing so well for Barcelona over the years.
In the absence of Carles Puyol, Ramos keeps his partnership at the back with Gerard Pique where as Arbeloa keeps his spot at right back brushing aside exciting Chelsea right back Azpilicueta. Both Xavi and Xabi are unlikely to start given their niggling problems and a midfield of Barca trio Busi, Cesc and Iniesta is on cards.
David Villa will return to the starting eleven after recent fine form for the blaugranas and he is likely to be joined by Pedro who has been in sensational form for Spain this season. Cazorla will most likely get the nod for the other attacking position ahead of other PremierLleague stars Silva and Mata.
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Bayern Munich might have one of the best defences in the world but they still lack a solid Center half a leader. Guardiola has identified his former La Masia prodcut Alberto Botia for this task. Daniel Van Buyten looks set to play his last season with the Hollywood FC where as Badstuber's progress has been hampered by injuries in recent times. Dante and Boateng are good but not worldclass.
Alberto Botia who is one of the best up and coming Spanish defenders has one cap with the Spanish National team . The 24 year old stands at 1.87 M. He is a ball playing defender having a very good sense of reading the game.
It is worth remembering that Pep Guardiola was the manager who gave Botia his first team debut with FC Barcelona. Botia was later loaned and then sold with a buy back clause to Sporting Gijon. After initial success , he was relegated with the team. He was strongly linked with a move back to Barcelona but Barca never looked interested in exercising the buy back clause. He signed for Sevilla FC in 2012-2013 season.
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| Alberto Botia |
In the current campaign, he has suffered from indifferent form, although his form has picked up recently.
Botia has so far played 21 gamed for Sevilla FC, 14 in the league and 7 in the cup. He also has two goals to his name.
Botia who is valued at € 6m and is along with Diego Godin of Athletico, Guardiola's preferred choice for strengthening Bayern's defense for next season. Godin is valued at € 15m , a sum much higher than Botia's.
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Napoli owner Aurelio De Laurentiis once said that he loves the fact that Lionel Messi doesnt have a tattoo. I am not sure if he still loves Messi for that but one thing is for sure. Lionel Messi does love his son Thiago.
On the occasion of Spanish Father's day, Lionel Messi didnt waste much time in showing his love for his four year old son. Messi who has repeatedly admitted that his son's birth is the best thing to have happened to him was granted some time off from Argentina training to get himself tattooed with his son's name and hands.
It was the calf of the famous footballer which had the honor to etch the name Thiago surrounded by his two hand prints.
It is worth remembering that this is not the only tattoo Messi has. He already has the face of her mother etched on his shoulders. We leave you here with the exclusive pictures of Messi's latest tattoos.
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| Lionel Messi getting Tattooed |
It was the calf of the famous footballer which had the honor to etch the name Thiago surrounded by his two hand prints.
It is worth remembering that this is not the only tattoo Messi has. He already has the face of her mother etched on his shoulders. We leave you here with the exclusive pictures of Messi's latest tattoos.
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Tuesday 19 March 2013
Jose Mourinho, regarded by many as No.1 manager in football today is surely No.1 in another list. The list published by France Football Magazine has the self proclaimed 'Special One' at top of their richest managers list.
It is worth mentioning here that it is the eighth time the Portuguese coach has finished as the top earner since the magazine began its managers list in 2004.
In the latest list, to be published by 'France Football' on Tuesday, Mourinho earned €14 million; €12 million from his salary and the rest from advertising contracts.
As he did last year, the Madrid coach beats Italian Carlo Ancelotti, second once again even though he took home €12 million, a €1.5 million drop on 2012.
Chinese club Guangzhou Evergrande's Italian manager, Marcelo Lippi completes the podium with €11 million, a spot occupied last time round by Barcelona's Spanish coach, Pep Guardiola, who is currently on a year's sabbatical before heading to Bayern Munich next season.
Dutchman Guus Hiddink, at the helm of Russian outfit Anji Makhachkala, is fourth in the rankings with €10.8 million, while Scot Kenny Dalglish had time to pocket €10 million before being fired by Liverpool last June.
Completing the best paid top ten are Arsenal's French manager, Arsène Wenger (€9.4 million), Russian national team coach, Fabio Capello (€9.2 million), Manchester City's Roberto Mancini, United's Alex Ferguson and China's national team coach and the only Spaniard on the list, José Antonio Camacho (€6.1 million).
It is worth mentioning here that it is the eighth time the Portuguese coach has finished as the top earner since the magazine began its managers list in 2004.
In the latest list, to be published by 'France Football' on Tuesday, Mourinho earned €14 million; €12 million from his salary and the rest from advertising contracts.
As he did last year, the Madrid coach beats Italian Carlo Ancelotti, second once again even though he took home €12 million, a €1.5 million drop on 2012.
Chinese club Guangzhou Evergrande's Italian manager, Marcelo Lippi completes the podium with €11 million, a spot occupied last time round by Barcelona's Spanish coach, Pep Guardiola, who is currently on a year's sabbatical before heading to Bayern Munich next season.
Dutchman Guus Hiddink, at the helm of Russian outfit Anji Makhachkala, is fourth in the rankings with €10.8 million, while Scot Kenny Dalglish had time to pocket €10 million before being fired by Liverpool last June.
Completing the best paid top ten are Arsenal's French manager, Arsène Wenger (€9.4 million), Russian national team coach, Fabio Capello (€9.2 million), Manchester City's Roberto Mancini, United's Alex Ferguson and China's national team coach and the only Spaniard on the list, José Antonio Camacho (€6.1 million).
The last Englishman to win European player of the year, in 2001, Micheal Owen announced to retire from professional football at the end of the season. Currently plying his trade in EPL with Stoke City, Owen featured for Real Madrid in 2004-2005 season. Despite having a good goal scoring record, he was never able to establish himself at the Barnabeu . He was sold to Newcastle where he played four seasons. He later played for Manchester United as well before joining Stoke but was never able to recapture his form which made him the poster boy of world football a decade ago.
Owen who has just one goal for Stoke this season is the fourth highest scorer for England with 40 international goals. He has 220 Club goals to go with that. Owen had following to say on his retirement:
"It is with an immense amount of pride that I am announcing my intention to retire from professional football at the end of this season,"
"I have been very fortunate in that my career has taken me on a journey I could only have dreamed of.
"None of this would have been possible without the tremendous support I have received from managers, coaches, fellow players, back-room staff, the supporters and my own personal sponsors. I would like to thank each and every one for the huge role they have played in helping me reach the top of my profession.
"Most of all though, I would like to thank my family. To my beautiful wife Louise, for her continued love and support through the many ups and downs in my career and for affording me the most precious gift of all, our children.
"To my Mum who has always taken the brunt of my frustrations yet continues to keep our family so tight-knit, a trait that has formed the foundations of my own success.
"Her dedication to me and my brothers and sisters is immeasurable. I'd like to thank Terry, Andy, Karen and Lesley for being so understanding and creating the perfect environment to grow up in.
"Last but not least, my Dad. We did it my old mate! From those freezing local parks to terrorizing the best defenders in the world on the biggest stages of all. I couldn't have done it without you."
We will leave you with some of the best goals of Micheal Owen:
"It is with an immense amount of pride that I am announcing my intention to retire from professional football at the end of this season,"
"I have been very fortunate in that my career has taken me on a journey I could only have dreamed of.
"None of this would have been possible without the tremendous support I have received from managers, coaches, fellow players, back-room staff, the supporters and my own personal sponsors. I would like to thank each and every one for the huge role they have played in helping me reach the top of my profession.
"Most of all though, I would like to thank my family. To my beautiful wife Louise, for her continued love and support through the many ups and downs in my career and for affording me the most precious gift of all, our children.
"To my Mum who has always taken the brunt of my frustrations yet continues to keep our family so tight-knit, a trait that has formed the foundations of my own success.
"Her dedication to me and my brothers and sisters is immeasurable. I'd like to thank Terry, Andy, Karen and Lesley for being so understanding and creating the perfect environment to grow up in.
"Last but not least, my Dad. We did it my old mate! From those freezing local parks to terrorizing the best defenders in the world on the biggest stages of all. I couldn't have done it without you."
We will leave you with some of the best goals of Micheal Owen:
The sight every Barca and indeed World football fan wanted to see. Eric Abidal, king of comebacks, is back on the field playing football. Here is the proof
Eric Abidal has finally returned to football pitch. He featured for Barca B against French Ligue 2 side Istres along with first team player Jonathan Dos Santos. It is pertinent to mention here that number 22 of Barca along with JDS and Pinto are training with Barca B due to the absence of other first team players who are away on national duty.
When it was announced that Abidal had relapse of Cancer, many thought his career was all but over. But Abidal had other ideas. He wanted to live and he only knew one way of living. To play football. It is worth mentioning here that Abidal only started training again on February 22 and in less than a month he has played his first match. Now all the eyes of Barca fans will be on King Abi to make his comeback to first team action and may be lifting another Champions League trophy in May. Who knows
Eric Abidal has finally returned to football pitch. He featured for Barca B against French Ligue 2 side Istres along with first team player Jonathan Dos Santos. It is pertinent to mention here that number 22 of Barca along with JDS and Pinto are training with Barca B due to the absence of other first team players who are away on national duty.
When it was announced that Abidal had relapse of Cancer, many thought his career was all but over. But Abidal had other ideas. He wanted to live and he only knew one way of living. To play football. It is worth mentioning here that Abidal only started training again on February 22 and in less than a month he has played his first match. Now all the eyes of Barca fans will be on King Abi to make his comeback to first team action and may be lifting another Champions League trophy in May. Who knows
Spanish Catalan daily, Sport, today came up with breakdown of Lionel Messi's Laliga goals this season which make up for a very interesting reading. Leo Messi has so far scored 42 goals in Laliga this season. Only one time so many goals have been scored in a full season. By Lionel Messi himself, when he scored 50 goals last season.
If a closer look is taken at the analysis, it is learnt that out of 42, half the goals have been assisted by various Barca players. Out of these 21 assists, 4 given by Iniesta are the most by any player to Messi this season. Alexis Sanchez might have come for a lot for stick from Camp Nou faithfuls this season, but he is the player with second most assists for Massiah with three. Xavi Hernandes and Dani Alves who are generally thought to be main providers for Messi have only two and one assists for Messi this season in the league.
Out of the 42 goals, 36 have come with Leo's world famous left foot and only 6 with his 'weaker' right foot. No goal has been scored via a header this season. Four of his goals have come from penalties. A figure much lesser than his direct rival for Pichichi, CR7.
Leo Messi has scored more goals outside the Camp Nou than inside it which in itself a stunning record. Messi has 20 goals in Camp Nou and 22 away from it.
Below is the picture published in the Sport today
Monday 18 March 2013
The biggest news of the Round 30 was the loss of Almeria who dropped out of automatic promotion zone and are now third just one point above Girona. Girona themselves solidified their push for an automatic promotion after their away win at Recre. Alcorcon are now second behind runaway leader Elche. Villareal are amongst it again and just four points away from second position and in play off positions. They won 1-0 at Huesca. Las Palmas thrashing of Barca B help them replace the young Blaugranas into sixth position. Barca B drop out to seventh. The bottom four remain unmoved although Hercules, the only side among them to win over the weekend, is now five points away from climbing out of the dreaded zone.
Fc Barcelona keeps its thirteen points advantage over great rival Real Madrid after both teams won. Real Sociedad jump into top four after disappointing defeat of Malaga and Sociedad's triumph over the weekend.
Malaga drop down to sixth and into the Europa League positions. At the bottom, Depor remain firm on last position despite a rare win whereas Zaragoza is in real danger now as it is only two points away from the relegation zone after another drubbing.
Barcelona 3 - Rayo Vallecano 1
Lineups
Barcelona: ( 4-3-3) Pinto; Adriano (Dani Alves 22'), Piqué, Mascherano, Jordi Alba; Fàbregas (Alex Song 81'), Busquets, Iniesta (Thiago 63'); Alexis, Messi, David Villa
Barcelona: ( 4-3-3) Pinto; Adriano (Dani Alves 22'), Piqué, Mascherano, Jordi Alba; Fàbregas (Alex Song 81'), Busquets, Iniesta (Thiago 63'); Alexis, Messi, David Villa
Rayo: (4-2-3-1)Rubén; Tito, Gálvez, Jordi Figueras, Arbilla; Adrián González (Lass 61'), Trashorras; José Carlos, Chori Domínguez (Isaac 84'), Piti; Delibasic (Tamudo 69').
Goals:
1-0. 25. Villa. Fired angled shot past Rubén after Messi passed across.
2-0. 40. Messi. Turned shot past keeper after Villa passed ball through.
3-0. 57. Messi. Ran on to Villa through ball and lifted shot over keeper.
3-1. 70. Tamudo. Turned shot past Pinto close to goal from Piti cross.
Yellow cards
: Piti 17', Trashorras 28', Tito 62', Rubén 68', Pinto 90'.
Match Report:
Lionel Messi struck twice to extend his incredible scoring streak to 18 consecutive league games, but it was his understanding with David Villa that was the highlight of the match
.The game started with Barcelona applying the high intensity and tempo which allowed the magical comeback against Milan from the initial whistle, while Los Vallecanos opted for an aggressive approach, with tackles flying around the park and pressing much higher than most Camp Nou visitors dare.
Villa got the ball rolling 25 minutes in by confidently slotting home a pass from Messi, who himself slid in the second five minutes before half-time after latching onto the Spain striker's through ball.
The Argentine would clip home a brilliant third shortly after the hour mark, though Barca were not able to hold onto their clean sheet when Raul Tamudo poked home a consolation for Rayo with 20 minutes to go.
Unsurprisingly, the Blaugrana took advantage of the many spaces left behind their opponent's back-line and managed to unbalance the game as a result.
As the scoreline reflects, the Messi-Villa connection worked perfectly, with both players clearly on the same wavelength and constantly enhancing each other's game, always aware of how their coordinated movement would create mutual spaces.
Villa got the ball rolling 25 minutes in by confidently slotting home a pass from Messi, who himself slid in the second five minutes before half-time after latching onto the Spain striker's through ball.
The Argentine would clip home a brilliant third shortly after the hour mark, though Barca were not able to hold onto their clean sheet when Raul Tamudo poked home a consolation for Rayo with 20 minutes to go.
Villa got the ball rolling 25 minutes in by confidently slotting home a pass from Messi, who himself slid in the second five minutes before half-time after latching onto the Spain striker's through ball.
The Argentine would clip home a brilliant third shortly after the hour mark, though Barca were not able to hold onto their clean sheet when Raul Tamudo poked home a consolation for Rayo with 20 minutes to go.
Unsurprisingly, the Blaugrana took advantage of the many spaces left behind their opponent's back-line and managed to unbalance the game as a result.
As the scoreline reflects, the Messi-Villa connection worked perfectly, with both players clearly on the same wavelength and constantly enhancing each other's game, always aware of how their coordinated movement would create mutual spaces.
Villa got the ball rolling 25 minutes in by confidently slotting home a pass from Messi, who himself slid in the second five minutes before half-time after latching onto the Spain striker's through ball.
The Argentine would clip home a brilliant third shortly after the hour mark, though Barca were not able to hold onto their clean sheet when Raul Tamudo poked home a consolation for Rayo with 20 minutes to go.
Statistics:
Osasuna 0 - Atlético Madrid 2
Line ups:
Osasuna:( 4-2-3-1 )
Osasuna:( 4-2-3-1 )
Andrés Fernández; Marc Bertrán, Arribas, Miguel Flaño, Damià (Llorente 79'); Lolo, Puñal (Cejudo 72'); De las Cuevas (Nino 60'), Oier, Armenteros; Masoud
Atlético: (4-2-3-1 )
Courtois; Juanfran, Miranda, Cata Díaz, Filipe Luis; Gabi, Mario Suárez; Koke, Diego Costa (Adrián 74'), Arda Turan (Cristian Rodríguez 85'); Falcao.
Goals:
0-1. 35. Diego Costa. Headed rebound past Andrés after keeper saved first shot.
0-2. 48. Diego Costa. Got on the end of Koke free kick to turn ball in from close up.
Yellow cards: Juanfran 06', Damià 39', Diego Costa 47', Koke 57', Gabi 89'.
Goals:
0-1. 35. Diego Costa. Headed rebound past Andrés after keeper saved first shot.
0-2. 48. Diego Costa. Got on the end of Koke free kick to turn ball in from close up.
Yellow cards: Juanfran 06', Damià 39', Diego Costa 47', Koke 57', Gabi 89'.
Match Details:
Atletico Madrid triumphed in El Sadar to keep the pressure on neighbors Real for the second spot in LaLiga. It was a team effort from Simeone's man in a game where Osasuna had little to no opportunities.
Cata Diaz was the only exception to an otherwise same prefered eleven of Simeone. He replaced Godin. The start was promising for both sides with three early chances. The first, for Atletico, with a dangerous cross into the area from Arda which was destined for Falcao but Andres Fernandez arrived first. 3 minutes had elapsed and the next chance fell to Oier who got his head on a cross before in the 7th minute a Masoud shot scraped the post.
Slowly Atletico grew in to the game but they had to wait until the 34th minute before opening the scoring. Gabi found Koke unmarked and the spain youngster picked out Diego Costa who made it 1-0 to the visitors.
That was how the first half ended and Atletico Madrid made sure the game was beyond the team from Pamplona when in the 47th minute, Diego Costa on one of his mot successfull grounds struck again. A free kick delivered by Koke was met at the back post by Miranda who headed the ball back across the goal for the Brazilian to fire home. The goal really knocked the stuffing out of Mendilíbar’s side and put Atletico well and truly in the driving seat.
Atletico were looking to kill the game by scoring the third goal and a header from Falcao went close and Koke almost finished things off with a spectacular effort that the keeper deflected wide. The visitors managed to play out the rest of the game and collect an important 3 points coupled with a clean sheet on the road. A good result at a difficult ground like El Sadar for Athletico.
Cata Diaz was the only exception to an otherwise same prefered eleven of Simeone. He replaced Godin. The start was promising for both sides with three early chances. The first, for Atletico, with a dangerous cross into the area from Arda which was destined for Falcao but Andres Fernandez arrived first. 3 minutes had elapsed and the next chance fell to Oier who got his head on a cross before in the 7th minute a Masoud shot scraped the post.
Slowly Atletico grew in to the game but they had to wait until the 34th minute before opening the scoring. Gabi found Koke unmarked and the spain youngster picked out Diego Costa who made it 1-0 to the visitors.
That was how the first half ended and Atletico Madrid made sure the game was beyond the team from Pamplona when in the 47th minute, Diego Costa on one of his mot successfull grounds struck again. A free kick delivered by Koke was met at the back post by Miranda who headed the ball back across the goal for the Brazilian to fire home. The goal really knocked the stuffing out of Mendilíbar’s side and put Atletico well and truly in the driving seat.
Atletico were looking to kill the game by scoring the third goal and a header from Falcao went close and Koke almost finished things off with a spectacular effort that the keeper deflected wide. The visitors managed to play out the rest of the game and collect an important 3 points coupled with a clean sheet on the road. A good result at a difficult ground like El Sadar for Athletico.
Athletico remain third only one point adrift of Real whereas Osasuna are four points away from relegation zone in fifteenth position.
Statistics:
According to a number of Catalan papers, these will be the new barca kits for the season 2013-2014. After various experiments with their shirts over the past years, Barca returns to its narrow stripes style which has been world famous. But the moment of real excitement for Catalan club's fans come in the shape of away day kits. The away day kits are made up of Senyera,Catalan flag's colors. In fact it resembles Senyera a lot. For a club which has always been the voice of Catalonians all over the world, this away day kit is more than just a shirt. It is a symbol of their national pride and their strong resilience against Spanish federation. Remember Barcelona, as an autonomous region of Spain is trying for total freedom from the Iberian state.
Here are the kits:
Here are the kits:
Palop; Coke, Fazio, Fernando Navarro, Alberto Moreno (Cala, minuto 56); Medel (Maduro, m.66), Kondogbia (Del Moral, m.77); Jesús Navas, Rakitic
,Reyes; Negredo.
Real Zaragoza (4-2-3-1)
Leo Franco,
Sapunaru
, Loovens, Álvaro, Abraham ; José Mari, Montañés (Rodri, m.74), Babovic, Víctor (Rochina, m.57), Pinter ; Hélder Postiga (Bienvenu, m.57).
Goals :
1-0, m.27: Coke; 2-0, m.52: Coke; 3-0, m.63: Reyes; 4-0, m.68: Negredo.
Match Details
Sevilla move upto tenth position after their home demolition of Real Zaragoza who are in real danger now. Zaragoza is now only two points above the relegation zone and are in a free fall. On the contrary Sevilla are only nine points behind Sociedad who are fourth in the table.
Sevilla went into game with a make-shift defence but it was rarely tested. Albert Moreno started at left back, a rare start for the youngster whereas Fernando Novarro started at center back. Sevilla raced into the lead on 28th minute when the right wing back Coke struck a right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom right corner following a set piece. The game changed when referee sent off Zaragoza's Stefan Babovic for second bookable offence just after the half hour mark.
Sevilla attacked with more zest and were rewarded when Coke scored his second of the day from an effort outside the box on the 52nd minute.Just after the hour mark, impressive Reyes made it three for Sevilla after a fast break resulted in Navas passing to Reyes. Soon it was 4-0. Alvaro Negredo who might be playing his last season with the club, scored after another swift counter-attack.
Sevilla travel to Levante whereas Zaragoza face Real Madrid of all people at their home on Matchday 29.
Stats
Sunday 17 March 2013
Malaga 2 - 0 Espanyol
(Colloto 49, S.Garcia 66)
Espanyol continued their revival under Mexican Javier Aguire where
as Malaga paid the price for thier lack of bench strength as they succumbed to a home defeat
which could prove to b pivotal for their Champions league hopes next season.
Malaga
started the game without several first team players with an eye on Champions
league quarterfinals against Brossia Dortmund. Diego Lugano started with
Welligton as Demichellis was missing. Lucas Piazon and Seba Fernandez were
given a chance to impress in place of Joaquin and Julio Baptista. Roque Santa
Cruz continued his rotation with Javier Saviola after netting the goal which
took Malaga to their first ever quarterfinal appearance in ECL.Espanyol
started with their usual starting eleven as expected. With Wokaso on the left
and Sergio Garcia as the lone striker.
It
was Espanyol who started the brighter side as Verdu in 3rd minute
and Mattioni in 5th minute tested Caballero. Antunes and Santa Cruz
then saw their efforts saved by Casilla. Santa Cruz and Joan Verdu also tried
their luck from distance but to no avail. Piazon on 38th and Antunes
on 40th minutes saw their long range efforts go wide.
However
in the beginning of the second half, Goalkeeper Willy Caballero, who has
probably been the best goalkeeper in LaLiga this season, made a rare mistake
when he fumbled a corner in the 49th minute and Diego Colotto volleyed the
visitors in front. Malaga looked out of sorts and probably energy too given the
high demands of playing in two competitions at this stage of the season. In the
66th minute it was Espanyol who made it 2-0 thanks to Mubarak Wakaso who burst down the left and
crossed for Sergio Garcia to volley a superb second into the top corner.
Malaga fans kept singing chanting and applauding
to show why they are one of the best fans all over spain. Malaga failed to create
any clear cut opportunity toward the end and match ended 2-0 to Espanyol.
Malaga remain sixth behind Sociedad and Valencia with 44 points. They have not
won in four LaLiga BBVA encounters now. Espanyol remain 13th with 35
points and within an outside chance to qualify for Europe. This is quite a
turn-around for a team who were staring at relegation before Aguire came.
The possible line ups for tonights important fixture at Camp Nou involving Barcelona and Rayo Vallecano is given below
Pinto is likely to start in goal in places of Valdes who is suspended. Alba is likely to be rested after his mid-week heroics against Milan and Adriano can be in for a game. Marc Bartra is likely to replacae injured Puyol and Barca will be hoping he does it well as Puyol is likely to remain sidelined for the rest of the season.
Song will be used instead of Busi to give him a well deserved rest where as Iniesta is also likely to rest. This will mean that Barca will be without their first choice midfield trio as Xavi is injured. Alexis will be given the nod over Villa after the latter started two consecutive games in the week. Messi is likely yo captain the side.
Players to watch out from Rayo's side are young winger Lass and experienced Piti who has been among the goals this season.
LaLiga(All times stated GMT):
12:00 Malaga v Espanyol
17:00 Sevilla v Zaragoza
19:00 Osasuna v Atletico Madrid
21:00 Barcelona v Rayo Vallecano
21:00 Granada v Levante
Valencia 3 - Betis 0
Line-ups:
Valencia: Diego Alves; Joao Pereira, Rami,
Mathieu, Guardado (Cissokho 84'); Dani Parejo, Tino Costa; Feghouli, Banega
(Canales 66'), Jonas; Soldado (Nelson Valdez 52'). 4-2-3-1.
Betis: Adrián; Angel López, Amaya, Mario, Nacho (Alex Martínez 68'); Joel Campbell (Paulao 18'), Cañas, Beñat (Nosa Igiebor 79'); Rubén Castro, Jorge Molina, Pabón. 4-3-3.
Goals:
1-0. 16. Soldado (penalty). After Amaya brought down Soldado on edge of area.
2-0. 85. Paulao (own goal). Deflected Canales centre inside own near post.
3-0. 92. Jonas. Controlled long Tino pass and cut in to fire shot across keeper.
1-0. 16. Soldado (penalty). After Amaya brought down Soldado on edge of area.
2-0. 85. Paulao (own goal). Deflected Canales centre inside own near post.
3-0. 92. Jonas. Controlled long Tino pass and cut in to fire shot across keeper.
Yellow cards: Nacho 10', Rami 37', Mathieu 43', Molina 58',
Feghouli 74', Angel 74'
Red cards: Amaya 15'
Match Details
In a match up between two direct Champions League spot hopefuls, it was
Valencia who triumphed on their home turf. Long gone are the days when
Rafa Benitez's led Valencia could outplay Real Madrid and Barcelona to
consecutive league titles or play the final of Champions League. It is
now a club whose mere survival is linked to the fact that it can qualify
for the Champions League. Where as on the other hand Real Betis are
enjoying quite a season after returning from Segunda division not so
long ago.
For Valencia, Mathieu started in the center of the defence along with countryman Rami. Guardado was prefered to his unnatural position of left back over Aly Cissokho. Betis stated with their customary 4-3-3 formation with Benat the main man in the midfield.
Tino Costa had an attempt saved in the 8th minute while Rami missed a chance soon afterwards. The match turned on its head in 15th minute when Antonio Amaya was judged to have fouled Soldado in the penalty area. Amaya was sent off and Soldado made it 1-0 from the spot.
Dorlan Pabón had an attempt saved from long range where as Tino Costa and Ruben Castro also went close for their teams. Guardado and Jonas also came close to adding a second for Valencia before the break.
Real Betis decided to take the initiative and press up in the second half. Betis tried hard but Valencia defended valiantly and Diego Alves made up when they didnt. . Five minutes from end came the second goal of Valencia when Paulao diverted a ball from Sergio Canales into his own net. In the injury time, Jonas, after excellent control, hit the ball to the far post and made it 3-0 on the night.
Valencia move to fifth with 45 points just two behind Real Sociedad for last Champions League position although they can be back to sixth if Malaga wins its game in hand today. Real Betis are seventh on 43 points.
According to club doctors, Carles Puyol could miss the rest of the season after undergoing knee surgery.
"The time he will be out is dependent on him. It could be six weeks, two or three months," said Doctor Ramon Cugat in a statement on the club's website.
Doctors further added that "The moment arrived when he couldn't play any more with these problems. By operating now and taking advantage of the international break, there is a chance he could be back in time for the end of the season, so we decided to do it just now.
"If we hadn't intervened now, there would have been the chance of aggravating the problem. The end of the season was approaching and we needed to find a solution so this was the best option."
It is worth mentioning that Puyol has an operation on the same knee last year although according to the doctors it is not that serious this time.
Thus it now remains to see that whether king Carlos' season is all but over or he will again surprise everyone and return to the field towards the end of the season.
Here are the highlights of Real Madrid's thrashing of Real Mallorca from last night
Real Madrid 5-2 Real Mallorca 16.03.2013 match highlights 1
Real madrid 5-2 Real mallorca 16.03.2013 match highlights 2
Real Madrid 5-2 Real Mallorca 16.03.2013 match highlights 1
Real madrid 5-2 Real mallorca 16.03.2013 match highlights 2
BRILLIANT JOSE SHIFTS THE BALANCE
Real Madrid produced a stunning second-half blitz to come from 2-1 down at the half time to record a 5-2 win at the Bernabeu against relegation threatened Mallorca. It was Jose Mourinho's team talk and substitutions after the break which changed the game on its head and made sure that Madrid keeps the pressure on their eternal rivals Barcelona.
The win takes Madrid four points clear of Atletico Madrid in second place having played a game more. They are still ten points behind Barcelona who have a game in hand. Christiano Ronaldo scored his 350th career goal where as Gonzalo Higuain chipped in with two goals. But the goal of the game came from Luca Modric.
Jose Mourinho started in his favored formation of 4-2-3-1 with Pepe starting in the midfield holding role along with ever impressive Luca Modric. Kaka got a rare start in the number 10 position and young striker Alvaro Morata who started against Barcelona retained his place on the left wing. Higuain was prefered to Benzema. Khedira, Alonso and Ozil were rested with an eye on Champions League encounter with Turkish giants Galatasaray.
However it was Mallorca who took the lead. Emiliano Nsue benefited from a pin.point cross from Giovanni Dos Santos and made it 1-0 in sixth minute for the visitors.It took Madrid only nine minutes to respond. Modric slipped a lovely through-ball for Pepe who poked the ball wide to Higuain, who was well placed to control and finish into an empty net.
Mallorca were back in front again come 21st minute. The visitors won a corner from which Alfaro scored. Ronaldo, marked by Alan Hutton, was off color and missed a few chances in the first half.
However it was Mallorca who took the lead. Emiliano Nsue benefited from a pin.point cross from Giovanni Dos Santos and made it 1-0 in sixth minute for the visitors.It took Madrid only nine minutes to respond. Modric slipped a lovely through-ball for Pepe who poked the ball wide to Higuain, who was well placed to control and finish into an empty net.
Mallorca were back in front again come 21st minute. The visitors won a corner from which Alfaro scored. Ronaldo, marked by Alan Hutton, was off color and missed a few chances in the first half.
Jose Mourinho was brave enough to brinf in Benzema and Ozil at the start of second half which tilted the game in the favor of Los Blancos. However it was Ronaldo who scored his careers 350th goal to tie the match at 2-2 with a brilliant header. Two minutes later 2-2 became 3-2 as Modric unleased a powerful shot from 30 yards out which Dudu had no chance to stop.
Another moment of genius from Ozil helped Higuain to make it 4-2 only two minutes later. All the good work of Mallorca has been undone in the matter of minutes. Towards the end of the match Benzema made it 5-2 to Madrid.
Another moment of genius from Ozil helped Higuain to make it 4-2 only two minutes later. All the good work of Mallorca has been undone in the matter of minutes. Towards the end of the match Benzema made it 5-2 to Madrid.
LINE-UPS:
Real Madrid Diego Lopez Arbeloa (Ozil, m.46), Sergio Ramos, Varane, Coentrao, Pepe, Modric, Kaka (Xabi Alonso, m.62), Cristiano Ronaldo, Morata (Benzema, m.46) and Higuain.
Mallorca Aouate, Hutton, Nunes, Bigas, Kevin, Nsue (Hemed, m.65), Pina, Tissone (Fontas, m.83), Alfaro, Giovani and Victor (Pereira, m.77).
Mallorca Aouate, Hutton, Nunes, Bigas, Kevin, Nsue (Hemed, m.65), Pina, Tissone (Fontas, m.83), Alfaro, Giovani and Victor (Pereira, m.77).
GOALS:
0-1, m.6: Nsue, 1-1, m.15: Higuain. 1-2, m.21: Alfaro, 2-2, m.52: Ronaldo. 3-2, m.55: Modric. 4-2, m.58: Higuain. 5-2, m.92: Benzema.
0-1, m.6: Nsue, 1-1, m.15: Higuain. 1-2, m.21: Alfaro, 2-2, m.52: Ronaldo. 3-2, m.55: Modric. 4-2, m.58: Higuain. 5-2, m.92: Benzema.
The capital club continued its recent surge in form maintaining an outside hope of clinching european football again next season. The club won its 5th game in the last six games,(the other one is drawn) and moved to 42 points after 28 games. It now finds itself tied with Valencia on points table.
In another disciplined performance by Getafe it ran out 1-0 winners over Marcelo Bielsa's troubled Basque outfit who look a pale shadow of themselves from the heroics of last season.
The only goal of the game came in the sixth minute scored by the midfielder Borja from a corner which was poorly defended by the Basque outfit. However it was the attacking quartet of Diego Casto, Abdel Barrada, Adrián Colunga and Pedro Leon.
After the first twenty minutes which clearly belonged to the capital club, Basque started to find their feet at long last and could have drawn level through Iraola and Aduriz.But it wasnt to be there day. Ibai Gomez also wasted a glorious opportunity just before the interval.
Munian, Torquero and Lorente were all brought on by the Argentinian manager in the second half to try and scupper the resolute Getafe defense. However the Getafe defense stood firm and ensured vital three points for Luis Garcia's men in their pursuit of Europa League football next season.
The lineups and subs are as follows:
Getafe Moya, Miguel Torres (Lopo, m.25), Rafa, Fede, Escudero, Borja, Xavi Torres, Pedro Leon, Abdel Barrada (Lacen, m.83), Diego Castro (Lafita, m.73) and Colunga.
Athletic Iraizoz, Iraola, San Jose, Ekiza, Laporte, Ander Herrera, Iturraspe (Muniain, m.57); Susaeta (Toquero, m.68), De Marcos, Ibai Gomez and Aduriz (Llorente, m.63).
Athletic Iraizoz, Iraola, San Jose, Ekiza, Laporte, Ander Herrera, Iturraspe (Muniain, m.57); Susaeta (Toquero, m.68), De Marcos, Ibai Gomez and Aduriz (Llorente, m.63).
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