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Lionel Messi made the headlines in Argentina's 6-0 thumping over Bolivia in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers match&nbsp;on Tuesday (Oct 15). In&nbsp;his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa America in July, Messi was on a roll as he scored a hat-trick to lead Argentina to a big win. Courtesy of his heroics, Messi also equalled&nbsp;arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo&nbsp;for the most number of international hat-tricks. Both Ronaldo and Messi now have&nbsp;as many as 10 hat-tricks, with Iran’s Ali Daei at 9.

Here is the third goal from Messi, which led to him equalling with CR7:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
MESSI SCORESSS A HATTRICK OH MY GOD!!!!!!! <a href="https://t.co/oeLvQJYAJn">pic.twitter.com/oeLvQJYAJn</a>
— Wedge (@Wxdge10) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wxdge10/status/1846368333542588857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Ronaldo-starrer Portugal, on the other hand, had a frustrating outing versus Scotland in the Nations League clash, which ended in a 0-0 stalemate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/lionel-messis-hat-trick-leads-argentina-to-6-0-win-over-bolivia-in-fifa-wc-qualifiers-767854">Lionel Messi's hat-trick leads Argentina to 6-0 win over Bolivia in FIFA WC qualifiers</a>

Talking about the clash, Argentina dominated it from the word go. Messi opened his side's account by finding the back of the net on the 19th minute. Before the break, Argentina was already 3-0 up with&nbsp;Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez adding a goal each. In the second half, substitute Thiago Almanda scored in the 69th minute before Messi made it worse for Bolivia with two fine strikes before the end of the clash.

Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra made a couple of fine saves to prevent&nbsp;hosts Argentina from extending their lead, however, he still couldn't prevent his side's mauling at the hands of the current world champions.

Copa America winners Argentina are at the top of the standings, with 22 points, three ahead of Colombia. The 2026 WC will be held in&nbsp;the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Lionel Messi made the headlines in Argentina's 6-0 thumping over Bolivia in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers match on Tuesday (Oct 15). In his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa America in July, Messi was on a roll as he scored a hat-trick to lead Argentina to a big win.

Lionel Messi made the headlines in Argentina's 6-0 thumping over Bolivia in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers match on Tuesday (Oct 15). In his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa America in July, Messi was on a roll as he scored a hat-trick to lead Argentina to a big win. Courtesy of his heroics, Messi also equalled arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo for the most number of international hat-tricks. Both Ronaldo and Messi now have as many as 10 hat-tricks, with Iran’s Ali Daei at 9. Here is the third goal from Messi, which led to him equalling with CR7: MESSI SCORESSS A HATTRICK OH MY GOD!!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/oeLvQJYAJn — Wedge (@Wxdge10) October 16, 2024 × Ronaldo-starrer Portugal, on the other hand, had a frustrating outing versus Scotland in the Nations League clash, which ended in a 0-0 stalemate. Also read: Lionel Messi's hat-trick leads Argentina to 6-0 win over Bolivia in FIFA WC qualifiers Talking about the clash, Argentina dominated it from the word go. Messi opened his side's account by finding the back of the net on the 19th minute. Before the break, Argentina was already 3-0 up with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez adding a goal each. In the second half, substitute Thiago Almanda scored in the 69th minute before Messi made it worse for Bolivia with two fine strikes before the end of the clash. Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra made a couple of fine saves to prevent hosts Argentina from extending their lead, however, he still couldn't prevent his side's mauling at the hands of the current world champions. Copa America winners Argentina are at the top of the standings, with 22 points, three ahead of Colombia. The 2026 WC will be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Messi equals arch-rival Ronaldo’s int'l hat-trick record during Argentina vs Bolivia WCQ tie - Watch

Real Madrid have, for the moment at least, given their support to star forward Kylian Mbappe since the Swedish media reported that he is being investigated for an alleged rape during a visit to Stockholm.

The reigning European champions, who have not commented publicly on the reports, do not appear to be overly concerned about the reports about the player who joined this summer from Paris Saint-Germain.

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An internal club source, who spoke to AFP on condition of their identity not being revealed, described the accusations as "the biggest fake in the history of sport".

On Tuesday, Real were accused of deleting 25-year-old Mbappe from photos it published in a promotional campaign with its jersey manufacturer Adidas.

Real told journalists the reason was simply because Mbappe's boot sponsor is Adidas's bitter rivals Nike.

That explanation was questioned on social media though, with many people pointing out that several players in the photos are also under contract with Nike, like Mbappe's French international teammate Eduardo Camavinga.

In the midst of the media storm -- and on the day his lawyer spoke to AFP and other French media to insist her client was "shocked" to be linked to a rape investigation -- Mbappe trained with his teammates in Madrid on Tuesday.

<h2>Pictured training</h2>

This time, the club had no hesitation in posting photos and videos of the Frenchman, who should be available for selection on Saturday for the visit of Celta Vigo to the Bernabeu as he is said to have recovered from discomfort in his left thigh that kept him out of France's squad for Nations League games.

With a rare few free days on his hands, Mbappe chose to go to Stockholm with a group of friends, arriving on October 9 and departing on October 11.

Reports in several Swedish media say they visited a restaurant and a nightclub.&nbsp;Once the group had left Sweden, a woman went to police to allege she was the victim of a rape.

On Monday, after Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet became the first media outlet to reveal that a rape probe had been opened, Mbappe slammed the report as "fake news" on his social media and alleged there was a link between the accusations and his financial dispute with his former club Paris Saint-Germain. A hearing into the case was held on Tuesday.

"It's becoming so predictable, the day before the hearing as if by chance," Mbappe said on X, formerly Twitter.

A Swedish prosecutor has only confirmed that an investigation has been opened, without naming Mbappe.

His lawyer Marie-Alix Canu-Bernard told AFP on Tuesday the 2018 World Cup winner was "at ease" because "he has done nothing wrong".

Canu-Bernard said Mbappe had "asked my office not to leave things as they are because it is impossible to allow yourself to be slandered and defamed in this way".

"This is why we are going to file a complaint for libel."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Real Madrid have, for the moment at least, given their support to star forward Kylian Mbappe since the Swedish media reported that he is being investigated for an alleged rape during a visit to Stockholm.

Real Madrid have, for the moment at least, given their support to star forward Kylian Mbappe since the Swedish media reported that he is being investigated for an alleged rape during a visit to Stockholm. The reigning European champions, who have not commented publicly on the reports, do not appear to be overly concerned about the reports about the player who joined this summer from Paris Saint-Germain. Also Read: NFL owners officially approve Tom Brady becoming part-owner of Las Vegas Raiders An internal club source, who spoke to AFP on condition of their identity not being revealed, described the accusations as "the biggest fake in the history of sport". On Tuesday, Real were accused of deleting 25-year-old Mbappe from photos it published in a promotional campaign with its jersey manufacturer Adidas. Real told journalists the reason was simply because Mbappe's boot sponsor is Adidas's bitter rivals Nike. That explanation was questioned on social media though, with many people pointing out that several players in the photos are also under contract with Nike, like Mbappe's French international teammate Eduardo Camavinga. In the midst of the media storm -- and on the day his lawyer spoke to AFP and other French media to insist her client was "shocked" to be linked to a rape investigation -- Mbappe trained with his teammates in Madrid on Tuesday. Pictured training This time, the club had no hesitation in posting photos and videos of the Frenchman, who should be available for selection on Saturday for the visit of Celta Vigo to the Bernabeu as he is said to have recovered from discomfort in his left thigh that kept him out of France's squad for Nations League games. With a rare few free days on his hands, Mbappe chose to go to Stockholm with a group of friends, arriving on October 9 and departing on October 11. Reports in several Swedish media say they visited a restaurant and a nightclub. Once the group had left Sweden, a woman went to police to allege she was the victim of a rape. On Monday, after Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet became the first media outlet to reveal that a rape probe had been opened, Mbappe slammed the report as "fake news" on his social media and alleged there was a link between the accusations and his financial dispute with his former club Paris Saint-Germain. A hearing into the case was held on Tuesday. "It's becoming so predictable, the day before the hearing as if by chance," Mbappe said on X, formerly Twitter. A Swedish prosecutor has only confirmed that an investigation has been opened, without naming Mbappe. His lawyer Marie-Alix Canu-Bernard told AFP on Tuesday the 2018 World Cup winner was "at ease" because "he has done nothing wrong". Canu-Bernard said Mbappe had "asked my office not to leave things as they are because it is impossible to allow yourself to be slandered and defamed in this way". "This is why we are going to file a complaint for libel." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Real Madrid come out in support of Kylian Mbappe amid rape investigation in Sweden

Former Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel is set to become the England manager and has reportedly signed a new contract. The German will, thus, become the third foreign manager to take over as the England men's team coach, after Sweden's Sven-Goran Eriksson and Italian Fabio Capello. Tuchel led Chelsea to the Champions League title in 2021 and enjoyed good success even at PSG, Bayern Munich and the German Cup with Borussia Dortmund.&nbsp;

As per Sky Germany, it is believed that Tuchel is set to sign an 18-month contract as England manager, from Jan 1, 2025 until the end of the 2026 World Cup. The 51-year-old agreed a deal with Football Association (FA) after several talks, and an announcement is expected on Wednesday (Oct 16). Given Tuchel's trophy-winning pedigree, the FA is looking to seek his help to end England's 58-year wait to win a major tournament.

Hence, FA is not keen to sign an Englishman to succeed Gareth Southgate, under whom England reached the knockouts of major events consistently but failed to get past the finish line.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/spain-enter-nations-league-quarterfinals-ronaldos-portugal-held-by-scotland-767840">Spain enter Nations League quarterfinals, Ronaldo's Portugal held by Scotland</a>

Tuchel served as Chelsea boss from Jan 2021 and enjoyed a good stint before being sacked in Sep 2022. He had a great stint with the English club,&nbsp;leading the Blues to Champions League glory soon after taking charge&nbsp;and also won the UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup with the London club.

Soon after his sacking, the German was appointed Bayern boss and led them to an 11th consecutive Bundesliga title. However,&nbsp;Tuchel&nbsp;also oversaw the demise of Bayern's unreal dominance of German football in a first-ever trophyless run last season for 12 years.

Tuchel will now serve as Southgate's permanent successor despite&nbsp;Lee Carsley being put in temporary charge of England in August,&nbsp;following Southgate's resignation shortly after Euro 2024 final loss.

Tuchel&nbsp;will inherit a richly talented generation of players, including Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer, that will be top contenders&nbsp;for the 2026&nbsp;World Cup.

"Obviously, I know&nbsp;Thomas&nbsp;well from last year," Kane told Sky Germany. "Fantastic coach, fantastic person, so I am sure the guys at the FA will contact me when they know more about it."

Southgate led the Three Lions to back-to-back Euros finals, plus a World Cup semi-final and quarter-final in his four major tournaments in charge. England, though, are still yet to win a major men's tournament since the 1966 World Cup.

(With inputs from AFP)

Former Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel is set to become the England manager and has reportedly signed a new contract. The German will, thus, become the third foreign manager to take over as the England men's team coach, after Sweden's Sven-Goran Eriksson and Italian Fabio Capello.

Former Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel is set to become the England manager and has reportedly signed a new contract. The German will, thus, become the third foreign manager to take over as the England men's team coach, after Sweden's Sven-Goran Eriksson and Italian Fabio Capello. Tuchel led Chelsea to the Champions League title in 2021 and enjoyed good success even at PSG, Bayern Munich and the German Cup with Borussia Dortmund. As per Sky Germany, it is believed that Tuchel is set to sign an 18-month contract as England manager, from Jan 1, 2025 until the end of the 2026 World Cup. The 51-year-old agreed a deal with Football Association (FA) after several talks, and an announcement is expected on Wednesday (Oct 16). Given Tuchel's trophy-winning pedigree, the FA is looking to seek his help to end England's 58-year wait to win a major tournament. Hence, FA is not keen to sign an Englishman to succeed Gareth Southgate, under whom England reached the knockouts of major events consistently but failed to get past the finish line. Also read: Spain enter Nations League quarterfinals, Ronaldo's Portugal held by Scotland Tuchel served as Chelsea boss from Jan 2021 and enjoyed a good stint before being sacked in Sep 2022. He had a great stint with the English club, leading the Blues to Champions League glory soon after taking charge and also won the UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup with the London club. Soon after his sacking, the German was appointed Bayern boss and led them to an 11th consecutive Bundesliga title. However, Tuchel also oversaw the demise of Bayern's unreal dominance of German football in a first-ever trophyless run last season for 12 years. Tuchel will now serve as Southgate's permanent successor despite Lee Carsley being put in temporary charge of England in August, following Southgate's resignation shortly after Euro 2024 final loss. Tuchel will inherit a richly talented generation of players, including Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer, that will be top contenders for the 2026 World Cup. "Obviously, I know Thomas well from last year," Kane told Sky Germany. "Fantastic coach, fantastic person, so I am sure the guys at the FA will contact me when they know more about it." Southgate led the Three Lions to back-to-back Euros finals, plus a World Cup semi-final and quarter-final in his four major tournaments in charge. England, though, are still yet to win a major men's tournament since the 1966 World Cup. (With inputs from AFP)

Former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel to be unveiled as new England manager: Reports

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick and had a hand in two more goals as Argentina crushed Bolivia 6-0 in South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday. Making only his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa America in July, Messi capitalised on a mistake by defender Marcelo Suarez to open the scoring in the 19th minute.

Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra made a couple of fine saves to prevent the hosts from extending their lead but he was beaten in the 43rd minute when Lautaro Martinez scored from Messi's quick cross.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/spain-enter-nations-league-quarterfinals-ronaldos-portugal-held-by-scotland-767840">Spain enter Nations League quarterfinals, Ronaldo's Portugal held by Scotland</a>

Argentina made it 3-0 just before the break, Messi setting up Julian Alvarez to score. Argentina controlled the second half and substitute Thiago Almada added a fourth from Nahuel Molina's pass in the 70th minute before Messi scored twice late on to cap a terrific performance.

Copa America winners Argentina top the standings on 22 points, three clear of Colombia. The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick and had a hand in two more goals as Argentina crushed Bolivia 6-0 in South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday.

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick and had a hand in two more goals as Argentina crushed Bolivia 6-0 in South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday. Making only his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa America in July, Messi capitalised on a mistake by defender Marcelo Suarez to open the scoring in the 19th minute. Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra made a couple of fine saves to prevent the hosts from extending their lead but he was beaten in the 43rd minute when Lautaro Martinez scored from Messi's quick cross. Also read: Spain enter Nations League quarterfinals, Ronaldo's Portugal held by Scotland Argentina made it 3-0 just before the break, Messi setting up Julian Alvarez to score. Argentina controlled the second half and substitute Thiago Almada added a fourth from Nahuel Molina's pass in the 70th minute before Messi scored twice late on to cap a terrific performance. Copa America winners Argentina top the standings on 22 points, three clear of Colombia. The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lionel Messi's hat-trick leads Argentina to 6-0 win over Bolivia in FIFA WC qualifiers

European champions Spain sealed their place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Serbia on Tuesday, while Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal were frustrated in a 0-0 draw with Scotland. Spain, who are also the reigning Nations League champions, became the second team to clinch a quarter-final spot as they followed in the footsteps of Germany by moving to 10 points from a possible 12 in Group A4.

Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, the two wing stars of Spain's triumphant Euro 2024 campaign, were not involved against Serbia on a rainy night in the Andalusian city of Cordoba. Yet that didn't matter as La Roja went ahead through Aymeric Laporte's early header and then shook off Alvaro Morata's penalty miss at the start of the second half.

Captain Morata made it 2-0 with a lovely finish on 65 minutes and Alex Baena, who featured at the Euros before starring in the Spain team that won Olympic gold, made it 3-0 from a free-kick. Serbia finished with 10 men after defender Strahinja Pavlovic was sent off. "We're in another final phase, which is the important thing -- it might seem easy but we're in all of these final phases in recent years, and that deserves credit," Morata told state broadcaster TVE.

Denmark are best placed to go through with Spain after they drew 2-2 away to Switzerland, who prop up the group.

The Danes twice came from behind, with Remo Freuler's opener cancelled out almost immediately by Gustav Isaksen, only for Zeki Amdouni to put the Swiss back ahead with a penalty in first-half stoppage time.

However, Christian Eriksen struck on 69 minutes to ensure Denmark left St Gallen with a point. Portugal dropped points for the first time in Group A1 as they were forced to settle for a share of the spoils with Scotland at Hampden.

On his 216th international appearance, Ronaldo made his 200th start for his country, more than 21 years on from his first. However, the 39-year-old failed to add to his 133 Portugal goals and stormed off the field at full-time ranting at the officials.

The home side needed a wonder save from goalkeeper Craig Gordon to deny Bruno Fernandes a winner for Portugal in the closing stages, but held out to secure their first point in the top tier of the Nations League. &nbsp;

That allowed them to end a run of four straight competitive defeats, but they have now won just once -- in a friendly against Gibraltar -- in their last 16 matches.

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<h2>- Croatia, Poland share six goals -</h2>

"Their goalkeeper was incredible. We couldn't get a goal, but the performance was positive," Portugal coach Roberto Martinez told UEFA.com. "Results are a consequence of performances and, tonight, we deserved to win."

Croatia are second in the group behind Portugal after playing out a thrilling 3-3 draw with Poland in Warsaw, in a match which featured five first-half goals. Piotr Zielinski of Inter Milan, wearing the captain's armband as Robert Lewandowski started on the bench, gave Poland an early lead.

However, Borna Sosa equalised and further goals by Petar Sucic and Martin Baturina put Croatia 3-1 up after 26 minutes. Nicola Zalewski pulled one back in first-half stoppage time and Sebastian Szymanski secured a draw for Poland with a terrific strike midway through the second half.

Croatia ended the game with 10 men after goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic was shown a red card for catching Lewandowski outside the area. In the third-tier League C, Northern Ireland went top of Group 3 with a 5-0 win over Bulgaria in Belfast.

Isaac Price of Standard Liege in Belgium was the hero with a hat-trick, as the 21-year-old became the country's youngest ever scorer of three goals in a game. Northern Ireland's last hat-trick scorer was David Healy in 2007.

An own goal by goalkeeper Dimitar Mitov and a late Josh Magennis effort completed the scoring, while captain Kiril Despodov missed a penalty for Bulgaria.

Belarus and Luxembourg drew 1-1 in the same group, while there were wins for Romania and Kosovo against Lithuania and Cyprus respectively in Group C2.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

European champions Spain sealed their place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Serbia on Tuesday, while Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal were frustrated in a 0-0 draw with Scotland.

European champions Spain sealed their place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Serbia on Tuesday, while Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal were frustrated in a 0-0 draw with Scotland. Spain, who are also the reigning Nations League champions, became the second team to clinch a quarter-final spot as they followed in the footsteps of Germany by moving to 10 points from a possible 12 in Group A4. Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, the two wing stars of Spain's triumphant Euro 2024 campaign, were not involved against Serbia on a rainy night in the Andalusian city of Cordoba. Yet that didn't matter as La Roja went ahead through Aymeric Laporte's early header and then shook off Alvaro Morata's penalty miss at the start of the second half. Captain Morata made it 2-0 with a lovely finish on 65 minutes and Alex Baena, who featured at the Euros before starring in the Spain team that won Olympic gold, made it 3-0 from a free-kick. Serbia finished with 10 men after defender Strahinja Pavlovic was sent off. "We're in another final phase, which is the important thing -- it might seem easy but we're in all of these final phases in recent years, and that deserves credit," Morata told state broadcaster TVE. Denmark are best placed to go through with Spain after they drew 2-2 away to Switzerland, who prop up the group. The Danes twice came from behind, with Remo Freuler's opener cancelled out almost immediately by Gustav Isaksen, only for Zeki Amdouni to put the Swiss back ahead with a penalty in first-half stoppage time. However, Christian Eriksen struck on 69 minutes to ensure Denmark left St Gallen with a point. Portugal dropped points for the first time in Group A1 as they were forced to settle for a share of the spoils with Scotland at Hampden. On his 216th international appearance, Ronaldo made his 200th start for his country, more than 21 years on from his first. However, the 39-year-old failed to add to his 133 Portugal goals and stormed off the field at full-time ranting at the officials. The home side needed a wonder save from goalkeeper Craig Gordon to deny Bruno Fernandes a winner for Portugal in the closing stages, but held out to secure their first point in the top tier of the Nations League. That allowed them to end a run of four straight competitive defeats, but they have now won just once -- in a friendly against Gibraltar -- in their last 16 matches. Also read: Paul George suffers knee injury in second NBA pre-season game with Philadelphia 76ers - Croatia, Poland share six goals - "Their goalkeeper was incredible. We couldn't get a goal, but the performance was positive," Portugal coach Roberto Martinez told UEFA.com. "Results are a consequence of performances and, tonight, we deserved to win." Croatia are second in the group behind Portugal after playing out a thrilling 3-3 draw with Poland in Warsaw, in a match which featured five first-half goals. Piotr Zielinski of Inter Milan, wearing the captain's armband as Robert Lewandowski started on the bench, gave Poland an early lead. However, Borna Sosa equalised and further goals by Petar Sucic and Martin Baturina put Croatia 3-1 up after 26 minutes. Nicola Zalewski pulled one back in first-half stoppage time and Sebastian Szymanski secured a draw for Poland with a terrific strike midway through the second half. Croatia ended the game with 10 men after goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic was shown a red card for catching Lewandowski outside the area. In the third-tier League C, Northern Ireland went top of Group 3 with a 5-0 win over Bulgaria in Belfast. Isaac Price of Standard Liege in Belgium was the hero with a hat-trick, as the 21-year-old became the country's youngest ever scorer of three goals in a game. Northern Ireland's last hat-trick scorer was David Healy in 2007. An own goal by goalkeeper Dimitar Mitov and a late Josh Magennis effort completed the scoring, while captain Kiril Despodov missed a penalty for Bulgaria. Belarus and Luxembourg drew 1-1 in the same group, while there were wins for Romania and Kosovo against Lithuania and Cyprus respectively in Group C2. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Spain enter Nations League quarterfinals, Ronaldo's Portugal held by Scotland

Nigeria's refusal to play an Africa Cup of Nations fixture in Libya after alleged "inhumane treatment" of their squad, overshadowed Algeria and Cameroon qualifying on Monday for the 2025 finals.

"This is getting scary," said forward Victor Boniface on social media after the Nigerian squad were stranded at an airport 225 kilometres (140 miles) by road from Benghazi, the match venue.

"We have been stuck at the airport for almost 13 hours with no food, Wi-Fi or place to sleep. Africa, we can do better," he added on X (formerly twitter).

Former African Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba, who accompanied Nigeria to north Africa, told AFP: "If CAF know their job, Libya ought to be banned from international football."

Nigeria beat Libya 1-0 in Uyo last Friday in Group D and the teams were set to meet again in the fourth round in Benghazi on Tuesday.

Furious at the way they were allegedly treated, the Nigerian delegation returned home on Monday, a CAF official confirmed to AFP.

A Libyan Football Federation statement said: "We reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation.

"There are no grounds to accuse the... Libyan Football Federation of deliberately orchestrating the incident. Such actions are inconsistent with our values and principles.

"It is important to highlight that just last week our own national team faced significant challenges upon arrival in Nigeria."

CAF reacted to the incident by saying in a statement that they had been in contact with Libyan and Nigerian authorities.

"The matter has been referred to the CAF disciplinary board for investigation and appropriate action will be taken against those who violated CAF statutes and regulations," it said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pcb-issues-show-cause-notice-to-fakhar-zaman-for-questioning-decision-to-drop-babar-azam-from-england-tests-767407">PCB issues 'show cause' notice to Fakhar Zaman for questioning decision to drop Babar Azam from England Tests</a>

<h2>Free-kick sinks Kenya</h2>

Ahead of the Group D fixtures on Tuesday -- Rwanda host Benin in the other -- Nigeria and Benin were well placed to fill the top two places and qualify for the finals.

Three-time AFCON champions Nigeria have seven points, Benin six, Rwanda two and Libya one, halfway through the six-round qualifying competition.

In Group J, Cameroon substitute Boris Enow beat Kenya goalkeeper Bryne Omondi off a free-kick outside the area to give the five-time AFCON title-holders a 1-0 win and qualification.

Kenya, beaten 4-1 in Yaounde last Friday, were forced to move the home fixture to Uganda as stadiums in Nairobi are being renovated for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Second-placed Zimbabwe beat Namibia 3-1 to move four points ahead of Kenya in the fight for the other qualifying place. The rivals meet next month in the penultimate round.

Borussia Dortmund defender Ramy Bensebaini converted an 18th-minute penalty to earn two-time AFCON champions Algeria a 1-0 Group E win over Togo in Lome.

Algeria have a maximum 12 points from four outings and second-placed Equatorial Guinea are likely to join them at the 2025 tournament, which Morocco will host.&nbsp;

Substitute Dorian Hanza scored in added time to give Equatorial Guinea a 2-1 win against Liberia in Paynesville, and a five-point advantage over Togo.

Captain Elias 'Domingues' Pelembe, who turns 41 in November, opened the scoring for Mozambique in a 3-0 Group I victory over Eswatini. It moved the Mambas (snakes) above Mali to first place.

However, Mali will qualify if they win in Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday. The fixture is one of 16 scheduled.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Nigeria's refusal to play an Africa Cup of Nations fixture in Libya after alleged "inhumane treatment" of their squad, overshadowed Algeria and Cameroon qualifying on Monday for the 2025 finals.

Nigeria's refusal to play an Africa Cup of Nations fixture in Libya after alleged "inhumane treatment" of their squad, overshadowed Algeria and Cameroon qualifying on Monday for the 2025 finals. "This is getting scary," said forward Victor Boniface on social media after the Nigerian squad were stranded at an airport 225 kilometres (140 miles) by road from Benghazi, the match venue. "We have been stuck at the airport for almost 13 hours with no food, Wi-Fi or place to sleep. Africa, we can do better," he added on X (formerly twitter). Former African Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba, who accompanied Nigeria to north Africa, told AFP: "If CAF know their job, Libya ought to be banned from international football." Nigeria beat Libya 1-0 in Uyo last Friday in Group D and the teams were set to meet again in the fourth round in Benghazi on Tuesday. Furious at the way they were allegedly treated, the Nigerian delegation returned home on Monday, a CAF official confirmed to AFP. A Libyan Football Federation statement said: "We reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation. "There are no grounds to accuse the... Libyan Football Federation of deliberately orchestrating the incident. Such actions are inconsistent with our values and principles. "It is important to highlight that just last week our own national team faced significant challenges upon arrival in Nigeria." CAF reacted to the incident by saying in a statement that they had been in contact with Libyan and Nigerian authorities. "The matter has been referred to the CAF disciplinary board for investigation and appropriate action will be taken against those who violated CAF statutes and regulations," it said. ALSO READ | PCB issues 'show cause' notice to Fakhar Zaman for questioning decision to drop Babar Azam from England Tests Free-kick sinks Kenya Ahead of the Group D fixtures on Tuesday -- Rwanda host Benin in the other -- Nigeria and Benin were well placed to fill the top two places and qualify for the finals. Three-time AFCON champions Nigeria have seven points, Benin six, Rwanda two and Libya one, halfway through the six-round qualifying competition. In Group J, Cameroon substitute Boris Enow beat Kenya goalkeeper Bryne Omondi off a free-kick outside the area to give the five-time AFCON title-holders a 1-0 win and qualification. Kenya, beaten 4-1 in Yaounde last Friday, were forced to move the home fixture to Uganda as stadiums in Nairobi are being renovated for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN). Second-placed Zimbabwe beat Namibia 3-1 to move four points ahead of Kenya in the fight for the other qualifying place. The rivals meet next month in the penultimate round. Borussia Dortmund defender Ramy Bensebaini converted an 18th-minute penalty to earn two-time AFCON champions Algeria a 1-0 Group E win over Togo in Lome. Algeria have a maximum 12 points from four outings and second-placed Equatorial Guinea are likely to join them at the 2025 tournament, which Morocco will host. Substitute Dorian Hanza scored in added time to give Equatorial Guinea a 2-1 win against Liberia in Paynesville, and a five-point advantage over Togo. Captain Elias 'Domingues' Pelembe, who turns 41 in November, opened the scoring for Mozambique in a 3-0 Group I victory over Eswatini. It moved the Mambas (snakes) above Mali to first place. However, Mali will qualify if they win in Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday. The fixture is one of 16 scheduled. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

AFCON Qualifiers: Nigeria refuse to play in Libya as Algeria, Cameroon qualify

Germany secured a place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals with a 1-0 win over old rivals the Netherlands on Monday, while France won in Belgium and Italy continued their recent revival.

Jamie Leweling of Stuttgart scored on his debut to give Germany victory over the Netherlands in Munich and guarantee them one of the top two spots in Group 3 of League A.

It was the eighth meeting of the teams in the last six years but, for the Dutch, &nbsp;there was nothing familiar about Leweling.

The 23-year-old was an addition to the Germany squad for this month's games following an injury to Jamal Musiala.

He was then called off the bench to start the game after an injury to club teammate Deniz Undav in the warm-up.

Leweling found the net after just two minutes only for that effort to be ruled out for an offside in the build-up, but he then blasted in the winner on 64 minutes.

"Jamie had an outstanding debut -- it's not often the Allianz Arena gives you a reception like that -- he did well," said captain Joshua Kimmich.

Germany have 10 points from four games and will definitely take part in the quarter-finals next March.

The Netherlands, who were without the suspended Virgil van Dijk, are level on five points with Hungary.

The Hungarians won 2-0 on Monday away in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with captain Dominik Szoboszlai, of Liverpool, opening the scoring late in the first half and adding a penalty after the break.

Italy remain top of Group A2 after easing to a 4-1 win at home to Israel in Udine.

Mateo Retegui opened the scoring with a penalty shortly before half-time and captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo netted twice in the second half.

Davide Frattesi also scored for Italy, with Mohammad Abu Fani pulling one back for Israel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pcb-issues-show-cause-notice-to-fakhar-zaman-for-questioning-decision-to-drop-babar-azam-from-england-tests-767407">PCB issues 'show cause' notice to Fakhar Zaman for questioning decision to drop Babar Azam from England Tests</a>

<h2>Kolo Muani double downs Belgium</h2>

France are a point behind Italy after they again won in the absence of Kylian Mbappe, a double by Randal Kolo Muani securing a 2-1 victory in Belgium.

Kolo Muani's opener from the penalty spot in the 35th minute at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels was cancelled out by Lois Openda in first-half stoppage time.

But Kolo Muani, who has had a difficult start to the season with his club, then headed in the winner just after the hour mark.

France, who saw Belgium's Youri Tielemans squander an early spot-kick, held on with 10 men after stand-in captain Aurelien Tchouameni was sent off late on.

The result was France's second win in as many games in this international break, despite them being minus skipper Mbappe, who was allowed to sit out the matches following a recent thigh injury.

As Les Bleus took to the field in the Belgian capital, a newspaper report in Sweden emerged claiming that Mbappe was being investigated for rape following a visit to Stockholm last week.

Mbappe claimed in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, that there was a link with his hearing before a French league committee on Tuesday in his bitter dispute over unpaid wages with his former club Paris Saint-Germain.

"FAKE NEWS !!!!. It's becoming so predictable, on the eve of the hearing, as if by chance," Mbappe posted.

It remains to be seen if the Real Madrid star will be back for the last Nations League group games next month, when France can secure a place in the quarter-finals, but Kolo Muani staked a claim to keep his place.

"I am happy for him," coach Didier Deschamps told L'Equipe TV.

"Randal is performing very well for us. He is full of confidence and the first game (against Israel) did him a lot of good too."

Elsewhere on Monday, Turkey won 4-2 in Iceland to stay top of Group B4, with all their goals in Reykjavik coming in the final half-hour.

Irfan Can Kahveci, Hakan Calhanoglu of Inter Milan, Real Madrid's Arda Guler and Kerem Akturkoglu all scored for Turkey.

With 10 points, they are two ahead of Wales in the race for promotion to League A.

Crag Bellamy's team beat Montenegro 1-0 in Cardiff thanks to a Harry Wilson penalty.

The Czech Republic are top of Group B1 after a 1-1 draw against Ukraine, while Albania defeated Georgia 1-0.

In Group C1, Sweden won 3-0 in Estonia and Slovakia beat Azerbaijan 3-1 away.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Germany secured a place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals with a 1-0 win over old rivals the Netherlands on Monday, while France won in Belgium and Italy continued their recent revival.

Germany secured a place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals with a 1-0 win over old rivals the Netherlands on Monday, while France won in Belgium and Italy continued their recent revival. Jamie Leweling of Stuttgart scored on his debut to give Germany victory over the Netherlands in Munich and guarantee them one of the top two spots in Group 3 of League A. It was the eighth meeting of the teams in the last six years but, for the Dutch, there was nothing familiar about Leweling. The 23-year-old was an addition to the Germany squad for this month's games following an injury to Jamal Musiala. He was then called off the bench to start the game after an injury to club teammate Deniz Undav in the warm-up. Leweling found the net after just two minutes only for that effort to be ruled out for an offside in the build-up, but he then blasted in the winner on 64 minutes. "Jamie had an outstanding debut -- it's not often the Allianz Arena gives you a reception like that -- he did well," said captain Joshua Kimmich. Germany have 10 points from four games and will definitely take part in the quarter-finals next March. The Netherlands, who were without the suspended Virgil van Dijk, are level on five points with Hungary. The Hungarians won 2-0 on Monday away in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with captain Dominik Szoboszlai, of Liverpool, opening the scoring late in the first half and adding a penalty after the break. Italy remain top of Group A2 after easing to a 4-1 win at home to Israel in Udine. Mateo Retegui opened the scoring with a penalty shortly before half-time and captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo netted twice in the second half. Davide Frattesi also scored for Italy, with Mohammad Abu Fani pulling one back for Israel. ALSO READ | PCB issues 'show cause' notice to Fakhar Zaman for questioning decision to drop Babar Azam from England Tests Kolo Muani double downs Belgium France are a point behind Italy after they again won in the absence of Kylian Mbappe, a double by Randal Kolo Muani securing a 2-1 victory in Belgium. Kolo Muani's opener from the penalty spot in the 35th minute at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels was cancelled out by Lois Openda in first-half stoppage time. But Kolo Muani, who has had a difficult start to the season with his club, then headed in the winner just after the hour mark. France, who saw Belgium's Youri Tielemans squander an early spot-kick, held on with 10 men after stand-in captain Aurelien Tchouameni was sent off late on. The result was France's second win in as many games in this international break, despite them being minus skipper Mbappe, who was allowed to sit out the matches following a recent thigh injury. As Les Bleus took to the field in the Belgian capital, a newspaper report in Sweden emerged claiming that Mbappe was being investigated for rape following a visit to Stockholm last week. Mbappe claimed in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, that there was a link with his hearing before a French league committee on Tuesday in his bitter dispute over unpaid wages with his former club Paris Saint-Germain. "FAKE NEWS !!!!. It's becoming so predictable, on the eve of the hearing, as if by chance," Mbappe posted. It remains to be seen if the Real Madrid star will be back for the last Nations League group games next month, when France can secure a place in the quarter-finals, but Kolo Muani staked a claim to keep his place. "I am happy for him," coach Didier Deschamps told L'Equipe TV. "Randal is performing very well for us. He is full of confidence and the first game (against Israel) did him a lot of good too." Elsewhere on Monday, Turkey won 4-2 in Iceland to stay top of Group B4, with all their goals in Reykjavik coming in the final half-hour. Irfan Can Kahveci, Hakan Calhanoglu of Inter Milan, Real Madrid's Arda Guler and Kerem Akturkoglu all scored for Turkey. With 10 points, they are two ahead of Wales in the race for promotion to League A. Crag Bellamy's team beat Montenegro 1-0 in Cardiff thanks to a Harry Wilson penalty. The Czech Republic are top of Group B1 after a 1-1 draw against Ukraine, while Albania defeated Georgia 1-0. In Group C1, Sweden won 3-0 in Estonia and Slovakia beat Azerbaijan 3-1 away. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Nations League: Germany into quarters with Netherlands win; France and Italy victorious

Alex Ferguson is leaving his reported £2 million-a-year ($2.6m) ambassador role with Manchester United at the end of the season as part of a cost-cutting exercise. The former United manager, 82, won 13 Premier League titles and two Champions League crowns among a huge trophy haul during nearly 27 years at Old Trafford. The Athletic reported that the decision had been made amicably, with Ferguson stepping down from the global ambassador role when the season ends.

Ferguson, a regular at matches since he stepped down in 2013, will remain a non-executive director of the football club board. It comes as part of a wider cost-cutting exercise at United under INEOS, which has had responsibility for football operations at the club since its founder Jim Ratcliffe completed the purchase of a minority stake earlier this year.

Last month United posted losses of £113.2 million ($148 million) for the year ending June 30, 2024 -- their fifth straight year of losses. But the club said they are compliant with the Premier League's profitability and sustainability rules.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-paul-george-suffers-knee-injury-in-second-nba-pre-season-game-with-philadelphia-76ers-767635">Paul George suffers knee injury in second NBA pre-season game with Philadelphia 76ers</a>

United have instigated a number of cost-saving measures, including a redundancy programme that cut about 250 jobs.

They are currently 14th in the Premier League after a poor start to the season, with manager Erik ten Hag under intense pressure ahead of Saturday's game against Brentford.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Alex Ferguson is leaving his reported £2 million-a-year ($2.6m) ambassador role with Manchester United at the end of the season as part of a cost-cutting exercise.

Alex Ferguson is leaving his reported £2 million-a-year ($2.6m) ambassador role with Manchester United at the end of the season as part of a cost-cutting exercise. The former United manager, 82, won 13 Premier League titles and two Champions League crowns among a huge trophy haul during nearly 27 years at Old Trafford. The Athletic reported that the decision had been made amicably, with Ferguson stepping down from the global ambassador role when the season ends. Ferguson, a regular at matches since he stepped down in 2013, will remain a non-executive director of the football club board. It comes as part of a wider cost-cutting exercise at United under INEOS, which has had responsibility for football operations at the club since its founder Jim Ratcliffe completed the purchase of a minority stake earlier this year. Last month United posted losses of £113.2 million ($148 million) for the year ending June 30, 2024 -- their fifth straight year of losses. But the club said they are compliant with the Premier League's profitability and sustainability rules. Also read: Paul George suffers knee injury in second NBA pre-season game with Philadelphia 76ers United have instigated a number of cost-saving measures, including a redundancy programme that cut about 250 jobs. They are currently 14th in the Premier League after a poor start to the season, with manager Erik ten Hag under intense pressure ahead of Saturday's game against Brentford. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sir Alex Ferguson to leave Manchester United ambassador role as premier club cuts costs

Real Madrid and French national football team captain Kylian Mbappe is subject to investigation in a rape matter from the Sweden police according to media reports in the country. According to reports by Swedish outlets on Tuesday (Oct 15), Mbappe has been accused of rape and sexual assault in the capital Stockholm. However, the 2018 World Cup winner has denied any allegations and denounced it as "fake news".

<h2>Mbappe in trouble over allegations?</h2>

After Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet reported the incident, it was later revealed by the Expressen outlet that it was the 25-year-old Mbappe who was accused. Currently nursing an injury, Mbappe is not part of the French squad which is involved in the Nations League.

“According to information obtained by Expressen, police are investigating the star who is reasonably suspected of rape and sexual assault,” the newspaper wrote.

However, when contacted by news agency AFP on the matter, Mbappe’s entourage denied such allegations and had no idea regarding the complaint raised in the Swedish capital. According to the report, the rape was committed in the Stockholm City Center while Mbappe was away from club and France national team duties.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
FAKE NEWS !!!! ❌❌❌ 
Ça en devient tellement prévisible, veille d’audience comme par hasard 😉 <a href="https://t.co/nQN98mtyzR">https://t.co/nQN98mtyzR</a>
— Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) <a href="https://twitter.com/KMbappe/status/1845840989878980885?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/explained-england-west-indies-and-south-africa-womens-t20-world-cup-semifinal-qualification-scenarios-767548">Explained: England, West Indies and South Africa Women's T20 World Cup semifinal qualification scenarios</a>

A prosecutor investigating the accusation told AFP: "A probe is underway into a crime that was reported on October 10 in the centre of Stockholm."

In the aftermath of the event, the player has denied the rape allegations and posted on his X handle regarding the same.

"FAKE NEWS !!!!. It's becoming so predictable, on the eve of the hearing, as if by chance," Mbappe posted.

On the other hand, reports in Spanish media have claimed that Real Madrid called an emergency meeting on Monday (Oct 14) to address the issue. No details of the meeting were revealed but it is thought that the club won’t respond until there is a concrete allegation or action on the player. It is also thought that Mbappe will be available once he is back from his injury concern.

Real Madrid and French national football team captain Kylian Mbappe is subject to investigation in a rape matter from the Sweden police according to media reports in the country.

Real Madrid and French national football team captain Kylian Mbappe is subject to investigation in a rape matter from the Sweden police according to media reports in the country. According to reports by Swedish outlets on Tuesday (Oct 15), Mbappe has been accused of rape and sexual assault in the capital Stockholm. However, the 2018 World Cup winner has denied any allegations and denounced it as "fake news". Mbappe in trouble over allegations? After Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet reported the incident, it was later revealed by the Expressen outlet that it was the 25-year-old Mbappe who was accused. Currently nursing an injury, Mbappe is not part of the French squad which is involved in the Nations League. “According to information obtained by Expressen, police are investigating the star who is reasonably suspected of rape and sexual assault,” the newspaper wrote. However, when contacted by news agency AFP on the matter, Mbappe’s entourage denied such allegations and had no idea regarding the complaint raised in the Swedish capital. According to the report, the rape was committed in the Stockholm City Center while Mbappe was away from club and France national team duties. FAKE NEWS !!!! ❌❌❌ Ça en devient tellement prévisible, veille d’audience comme par hasard 😉 https://t.co/nQN98mtyzR — Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) October 14, 2024 × ALSO READ | Explained: England, West Indies and South Africa Women's T20 World Cup semifinal qualification scenarios A prosecutor investigating the accusation told AFP: "A probe is underway into a crime that was reported on October 10 in the centre of Stockholm." In the aftermath of the event, the player has denied the rape allegations and posted on his X handle regarding the same. "FAKE NEWS !!!!. It's becoming so predictable, on the eve of the hearing, as if by chance," Mbappe posted. On the other hand, reports in Spanish media have claimed that Real Madrid called an emergency meeting on Monday (Oct 14) to address the issue. No details of the meeting were revealed but it is thought that the club won’t respond until there is a concrete allegation or action on the player. It is also thought that Mbappe will be available once he is back from his injury concern.

Real Madrid and France star Kylian Mbappe lands in trouble over rape allegations in Sweden: Report

Major bodies representing footballers and football clubs in Europe on Monday filed a complaint to the European Commission accusing FIFA of abusing its position over changes to the international match calendar and tournament expansions.

Football's world governing body "holds conflicting roles as governing body and competition organiser, which give rise to a conflict of interest," FIFPro Europe, the European Leagues body and Spain's La Liga said in a statement.

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The bodies presented their complaint at a press conference in Brussels, saying that FIFA's "imposition of decisions on the international calendar is an abuse of dominance and violates EU law".

FIFPro is the global players' union while European Leagues brings together more than one thousand clubs from 33 countries around Europe.

Its member leagues include the English Premier League, as well as the leagues in Italy, Germany and France, but not La Liga, which joined the complaint separately.

Citing recent European court rulings related to the breakaway Super League and the Lassana Diarra case, the bodies said FIFA's rules and conduct "harm the economic interests of national leagues, and the health and safety of players in European football".

"A legal challenge before the European Commission has become a necessary course of action to safeguard the European football sector," they added.

FIFA has been accused of a failure to consult over recent changes to the calendar, such as the introduction of a 32-team Club World Cup.

The first edition of the expanded Club World Cup will take place in the United States in June and July next year and 12 European clubs are due to feature.

Many of the continent's leading players will therefore be obliged to participate at a time when they would otherwise have been afforded a long close-season break, a year ahead of the expanded 48-team World Cup in North America.

A recent FIFPro report accused football's governing bodies of putting players' health at risk amid a constantly growing calendar, while some leading players have evoked the possibility of going on strike to protest against the increasing demands being made of them.

Representatives of domestic leagues, meanwhile, have voiced concerns that their competitions will suffer the most as top players will inevitably miss more domestic matches in order to rest, damaging their brands.

FIFA has previously hit back at criticism and accused leagues of acting with "commercial self-interest (and) hypocrisy".

"Those leagues apparently prefer a calendar filled with friendlies and summer tours, often involving extensive global travel," the body said in July after it first emerged that legal action was planned.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Major bodies representing footballers and football clubs in Europe on Monday filed a complaint to the European Commission accusing FIFA of abusing its position over changes to the international match calendar and tournament expansions.

Major bodies representing footballers and football clubs in Europe on Monday filed a complaint to the European Commission accusing FIFA of abusing its position over changes to the international match calendar and tournament expansions. Football's world governing body "holds conflicting roles as governing body and competition organiser, which give rise to a conflict of interest," FIFPro Europe, the European Leagues body and Spain's La Liga said in a statement. Also Read: Australian star Nick Kyrgios vows to 'shut up' doubters with December comeback The bodies presented their complaint at a press conference in Brussels, saying that FIFA's "imposition of decisions on the international calendar is an abuse of dominance and violates EU law". FIFPro is the global players' union while European Leagues brings together more than one thousand clubs from 33 countries around Europe. Its member leagues include the English Premier League, as well as the leagues in Italy, Germany and France, but not La Liga, which joined the complaint separately. Citing recent European court rulings related to the breakaway Super League and the Lassana Diarra case, the bodies said FIFA's rules and conduct "harm the economic interests of national leagues, and the health and safety of players in European football". "A legal challenge before the European Commission has become a necessary course of action to safeguard the European football sector," they added. FIFA has been accused of a failure to consult over recent changes to the calendar, such as the introduction of a 32-team Club World Cup. The first edition of the expanded Club World Cup will take place in the United States in June and July next year and 12 European clubs are due to feature. Many of the continent's leading players will therefore be obliged to participate at a time when they would otherwise have been afforded a long close-season break, a year ahead of the expanded 48-team World Cup in North America. A recent FIFPro report accused football's governing bodies of putting players' health at risk amid a constantly growing calendar, while some leading players have evoked the possibility of going on strike to protest against the increasing demands being made of them. Representatives of domestic leagues, meanwhile, have voiced concerns that their competitions will suffer the most as top players will inevitably miss more domestic matches in order to rest, damaging their brands. FIFA has previously hit back at criticism and accused leagues of acting with "commercial self-interest (and) hypocrisy". "Those leagues apparently prefer a calendar filled with friendlies and summer tours, often involving extensive global travel," the body said in July after it first emerged that legal action was planned. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Football players and clubs unions file complaint against FIFA to EU over calendar dispute

New United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino has hailed AC Milan's American winger Christian Pulisic as one of the best forwards in the world but has warned he may need to limit his workload.

Pochettino will take charge of the USA for the first time on Saturday in Austin when his team take on Panama in a friendly.

The Argentine will then take his team to Mexico for a friendly&nbsp;in Guadalajara on Tuesday to conclude his first window since being appointed to replace Gregg Berhalter.

Pulisic, who made his debut for his country as a 17-year-old, has amassed 73 caps by the age of 26 and is enjoying a rich run of form with his club in Serie A.

The former Dortmund and Chelsea winger has featured in all seven Serie A games for Milan, scoring five goals and has two Champions League appearances, scoring against Liverpool.

Pochettino did not hold back in his assessment of Pulisic's talent.

"(He's) a great player, fantastic player, a player that I think is going to help now and in the future to put the team in a place that we want, I think he is a fantastic player, one of the best offensive players in the world," he said.

But the former Tottenham manager suggested Pulisic's workload may need to be carefully managed.

"He is playing every single game, every single minute, that is also a thing that we are a little bit worried (about)," he said.

"Sometimes we need to protect, we will see, because he arrived a little bit tired, but that is a thing that I told before -- to build a very good relationship with the club and try to help and when we really need him, he needs to be in form, happy, strong. The quality is there because he has an enormous talent, he is a fantastic player," he added.

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<h2>Fresh Start</h2>

Pochettino said he would not be taking any gambles with player fitness during the two friendly games.

"(On Saturday) we want to put in place 11 players that feel fresh and with the possibility to compete at their best and not to take risks because that is another thing that I wanted to tell you that we are not going to take risks with our players," he said.

"We need to be responsible also with the clubs. We need to send them (back) in the same, but not in worse," he added.

Some of Pochettino's players have said the preparation this week has been "intense" but the coach said that didn't purely reflect the physical aspect of training but the players adapting to his approach to the game.

"We are a coaching staff that we demand a lot, I think, because we really believe that you want to compete in your best, you need to train, replicate the intensity that is going to be demanded in the competition," he said.

The Argentine, whose most recent role was at Chelsea, said he had been pleased to see a positive attitude from the team, which had been criticised for their recent displays which saw just one win in their last seven games.

"One thing that the 25 players share is the motivation to be here and to play for the national team. That is amazing, how excited to come here," he said.

But he said it would take time for the team to adapt to the new coaching staff.

"The important thing is to talk and to know (each other) outside of the field. And then (for us) to know them also on the pitch," he added.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

New United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino has hailed AC Milan's American winger Christian Pulisic as one of the best forwards in the world but has warned he may need to limit his workload.

New United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino has hailed AC Milan's American winger Christian Pulisic as one of the best forwards in the world but has warned he may need to limit his workload. Pochettino will take charge of the USA for the first time on Saturday in Austin when his team take on Panama in a friendly. The Argentine will then take his team to Mexico for a friendly in Guadalajara on Tuesday to conclude his first window since being appointed to replace Gregg Berhalter. Pulisic, who made his debut for his country as a 17-year-old, has amassed 73 caps by the age of 26 and is enjoying a rich run of form with his club in Serie A. The former Dortmund and Chelsea winger has featured in all seven Serie A games for Milan, scoring five goals and has two Champions League appearances, scoring against Liverpool. Pochettino did not hold back in his assessment of Pulisic's talent. "(He's) a great player, fantastic player, a player that I think is going to help now and in the future to put the team in a place that we want, I think he is a fantastic player, one of the best offensive players in the world," he said. But the former Tottenham manager suggested Pulisic's workload may need to be carefully managed. "He is playing every single game, every single minute, that is also a thing that we are a little bit worried (about)," he said. "Sometimes we need to protect, we will see, because he arrived a little bit tired, but that is a thing that I told before -- to build a very good relationship with the club and try to help and when we really need him, he needs to be in form, happy, strong. The quality is there because he has an enormous talent, he is a fantastic player," he added. ALSO READ | Women's T20 World Cup: Ashleigh Gardner runs the show for Australia in one-sided win over Pakistan Fresh Start Pochettino said he would not be taking any gambles with player fitness during the two friendly games. "(On Saturday) we want to put in place 11 players that feel fresh and with the possibility to compete at their best and not to take risks because that is another thing that I wanted to tell you that we are not going to take risks with our players," he said. "We need to be responsible also with the clubs. We need to send them (back) in the same, but not in worse," he added. Some of Pochettino's players have said the preparation this week has been "intense" but the coach said that didn't purely reflect the physical aspect of training but the players adapting to his approach to the game. "We are a coaching staff that we demand a lot, I think, because we really believe that you want to compete in your best, you need to train, replicate the intensity that is going to be demanded in the competition," he said. The Argentine, whose most recent role was at Chelsea, said he had been pleased to see a positive attitude from the team, which had been criticised for their recent displays which saw just one win in their last seven games. "One thing that the 25 players share is the motivation to be here and to play for the national team. That is amazing, how excited to come here," he said. But he said it would take time for the team to adapt to the new coaching staff. "The important thing is to talk and to know (each other) outside of the field. And then (for us) to know them also on the pitch," he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

New US coach Mauricio Pochettino hails Christian Pulisic but worries over workload

Argentina were held to a 1-1 draw by Venezuela on Lionel Messi's return as Brazil got their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign back on track with a last-gasp 2-1 victory over Chile on Thursday. Messi, who missed Argentina's last round of fixtures in September due to injury, looked to have put the world champions on course for victory after his free-kick helped set up Nicolas Otamendi's 13th-minute opener in the Venezuelan city of Maturin.

But a battling performance by Venezuela in front of their home fans was rewarded midway through the second half when veteran striker Salomon Rondon met Yeferson Soteldo's cross with a header that flew past Argentina goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli. Despite the dropped points, 2022 World Cup winners Argentina remain firmly on course for a place at the 2026 finals, which are being staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

With the tournament expanded to 48 teams, the top six finishers in South America's 10-team round-robin qualifying competition will earn a ticket to the finals. Argentina lead the standings with 19 points from nine games, three points clear of second-placed Colombia, who suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Bolivia in other qualifying action on Thursday.

Yet while Argentina look poised to qualify comfortably, rivals Brazil continue to make hard work of their qualifying campaign.

Chile, who are one place off the bottom of the standings, rocked Brazil after just two minutes when veteran striker Eduardo Vargas steered a looping header over Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson to make it 1-0.

But Brazil drew level in first-half stoppage time after Savinho worked himself into space before crossing for Botafogo forward Igor Jesus to head home.

The match looked destined to finish in a draw until the 89th minute, when Brazil substitute Luiz Henrique arrowed in a low shot from the edge of the area to make it 2-1.

The win moves Brazil into fourth place in the standings with 13 points from nine games, six points adrift from leaders Brazil.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/greece-stun-england-in-nations-league-italy-vs-belgium-ends-in-2-2-stalemate-766476">Greece stun England in Nations League, Italy vs Belgium ends in 2-2 stalemate</a>

<h2>- Bolivia boost -</h2>

Elsewhere Thursday, Bolivia boosted their hopes of a first World Cup appearance since 1994 with their gutsy 1-0 win over Colombia in a game played in the thin air of El Alto, which is situated at around 4,150m (13,600 feet) above sea level. A superb individual goal from Miguel Terceros handed the Bolivians their fourth victory of qualifying and vaulted them up into the automatic qualification positions.

Bolivia's fortunes have taken a dramatic upturn since the team started playing qualifiers in El Alto, which is just over 500m higher than the Bolivians' usual home venue of the Estadio Hernando Siles in nearby La Paz.

Bolivia opted to move fixtures to El Alto after losing two out of their opening three home qualifiers in La Paz last year.

The move has paid off, with Thursday's 1-0 win coming after a 4-0 rout of Venezuela at the same venue in September.

After claiming a shock 2-1 win away to Chile last month, Bolivia are now sitting in sixth place in the South American standings with 12 points from nine games.

Terceros's winning goal arrived in the 58th minute, with the 20-year-old winger who plays for Brazilian club Santos cutting in from the right flank, shimmying past Colombian defenders Jhon Lucumi and Kevin Castano and unleashing a left-footed thunderbolt that flew into the top corner.

Bolivia are level on points with Ecuador, who finished the day in fifth place in the table after a 0-0 draw with Paraguay in Quito.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Argentina were held to a 1-1 draw by Venezuela on Lionel Messi's return as Brazil got their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign back on track with a last-gasp 2-1 victory over Chile on Thursday.

Argentina were held to a 1-1 draw by Venezuela on Lionel Messi's return as Brazil got their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign back on track with a last-gasp 2-1 victory over Chile on Thursday. Messi, who missed Argentina's last round of fixtures in September due to injury, looked to have put the world champions on course for victory after his free-kick helped set up Nicolas Otamendi's 13th-minute opener in the Venezuelan city of Maturin. But a battling performance by Venezuela in front of their home fans was rewarded midway through the second half when veteran striker Salomon Rondon met Yeferson Soteldo's cross with a header that flew past Argentina goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli. Despite the dropped points, 2022 World Cup winners Argentina remain firmly on course for a place at the 2026 finals, which are being staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico. With the tournament expanded to 48 teams, the top six finishers in South America's 10-team round-robin qualifying competition will earn a ticket to the finals. Argentina lead the standings with 19 points from nine games, three points clear of second-placed Colombia, who suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Bolivia in other qualifying action on Thursday. Yet while Argentina look poised to qualify comfortably, rivals Brazil continue to make hard work of their qualifying campaign. Chile, who are one place off the bottom of the standings, rocked Brazil after just two minutes when veteran striker Eduardo Vargas steered a looping header over Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson to make it 1-0. But Brazil drew level in first-half stoppage time after Savinho worked himself into space before crossing for Botafogo forward Igor Jesus to head home. The match looked destined to finish in a draw until the 89th minute, when Brazil substitute Luiz Henrique arrowed in a low shot from the edge of the area to make it 2-1. The win moves Brazil into fourth place in the standings with 13 points from nine games, six points adrift from leaders Brazil. Also read: Greece stun England in Nations League, Italy vs Belgium ends in 2-2 stalemate - Bolivia boost - Elsewhere Thursday, Bolivia boosted their hopes of a first World Cup appearance since 1994 with their gutsy 1-0 win over Colombia in a game played in the thin air of El Alto, which is situated at around 4,150m (13,600 feet) above sea level. A superb individual goal from Miguel Terceros handed the Bolivians their fourth victory of qualifying and vaulted them up into the automatic qualification positions. Bolivia's fortunes have taken a dramatic upturn since the team started playing qualifiers in El Alto, which is just over 500m higher than the Bolivians' usual home venue of the Estadio Hernando Siles in nearby La Paz. Bolivia opted to move fixtures to El Alto after losing two out of their opening three home qualifiers in La Paz last year. The move has paid off, with Thursday's 1-0 win coming after a 4-0 rout of Venezuela at the same venue in September. After claiming a shock 2-1 win away to Chile last month, Bolivia are now sitting in sixth place in the South American standings with 12 points from nine games. Terceros's winning goal arrived in the 58th minute, with the 20-year-old winger who plays for Brazilian club Santos cutting in from the right flank, shimmying past Colombian defenders Jhon Lucumi and Kevin Castano and unleashing a left-footed thunderbolt that flew into the top corner. Bolivia are level on points with Ecuador, who finished the day in fifth place in the table after a 0-0 draw with Paraguay in Quito. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Argentina held by Venezuela, Brazil leave it late vs Chile in 2026 World Cup qualifiers

A 94th-minute winner by Vangelis Pavlidis gave Greece a 2-1 victory on Thursday against England in a Nations League clash overshadowed by the death of Greek player George Baldock on the eve of the game, while Italy were held to a draw by Belgium. Greek striker Pavlidis netted a brace, either side of a late Jude Bellingham goal, to send Greece top of Group B2.

Greece's first-ever victory against England came in an emotionally-charged evening at Wembley, which started with a minute's silence prior to kick-off for Baldock, an English-born Greece international who drowned in his swimming pool in Athens on Wednesday.

"It was a really special day for us because of George. We are people and it's a special night because of him," Pavlidis told ITV. "A difficult moment for us because George was part of the team. Special guy. We have to play for him and it doesn't matter the score today. We gave everything for him."

The Greeks took a deserved lead in the 49th minute when Pavlidis danced through flimsy defending in the England box, before driving the ball past Jordan Pickford.

The visitors had three disallowed goals in the match -- the last of which came just minutes before Real Madrid's Bellingham hammered in an 87th-minute equaliser for England.

However, Greece were not to be denied a third win in three Nations League matches as England failed to clear the danger in their area and Pavlidis took full advantage and drilled home a late winner.

In Group A2, Italy and Belgium played out an eventful 2-2 draw in Rome. The Italians raced into the lead inside 60 seconds when Andrea Cambiaso got his first international goal by bundling home from close range.

Mateo Retegui doubled the hosts' lead on 24 minutes, sweeping home with his left foot after a spilled save.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-cristiano-ronaldo-pens-heartfelt-tribute-to-rafael-nadal-says-it-has-been-an-honour-to-witness-your-journey-766417">Cristiano Ronaldo pens heartfelt tribute to Rafael Nadal, says 'it has been an honour to witness your journey'</a>

<h2>- Pellegrini sees red -</h2>

Italy looked comfortable and were dominating the encounter until they suffered a double blow inside the final 10 minutes of the first half. Lorenzo Pellegrini initially picked up a yellow card for his late lunge on Arthur Theate in the 38th minute but, after a VAR review, the Italy playmaker was instead shown a straight red.&nbsp;

Belgium then duly halved the deficit from the resulting free-kick, with Maxim De Cuyper finishing emphatically from 25 yards following a clever set-piece move. Arsenal forward Leandro Trossard completed the Belgian comeback on 61 minutes.

A deep corner was nodded back across goal and Trossard ghosted past the static defence to prod the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma from close range.

"There are episodes that can change a game, like their goal immediately after we went down to ten men," said Italy coach Luciano Spalletti. "A result doesn't always depend on the football you play and your tactics. Certainly, we could have played better in the second half after a very good first half."

Italy remain top of their group with France sitting second after they beat Israel 4-1 in Budapest. Eduardo Camavinga gave France a seventh-minute lead when the goalkeeper fumbled his tame effort, allowing the ball to bounce over the line.

Omri Gandelman levelled on 24 minutes, before Christopher Nkunku restored France's advantage four minutes later with a sharp finish.

As the clock wound down, the visitors added two more goals to their tally via Matteo Guendouzi and Bradley Barcola. Erling Haaland scored a brace as Norway eased past Slovenia 3-0 in Oslo to sit top of Group B3, three points ahead of Austria who beat Kazakhstan 4-0.

Republic of Ireland came from behind in Helsinki to beat Finland 2-1, they sit third in Group B2 behind England. On Friday, Germany visit Bosnia and Herzegovina and Hungary host the Netherlands in Group A3, while Iceland take on Wales in Group B4.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A 94th-minute winner by Vangelis Pavlidis gave Greece a 2-1 victory on Thursday against England in a Nations League clash overshadowed by the death of Greek player George Baldock on the eve of the game, while Italy were held to a draw by Belgium.

A 94th-minute winner by Vangelis Pavlidis gave Greece a 2-1 victory on Thursday against England in a Nations League clash overshadowed by the death of Greek player George Baldock on the eve of the game, while Italy were held to a draw by Belgium. Greek striker Pavlidis netted a brace, either side of a late Jude Bellingham goal, to send Greece top of Group B2. Greece's first-ever victory against England came in an emotionally-charged evening at Wembley, which started with a minute's silence prior to kick-off for Baldock, an English-born Greece international who drowned in his swimming pool in Athens on Wednesday. "It was a really special day for us because of George. We are people and it's a special night because of him," Pavlidis told ITV. "A difficult moment for us because George was part of the team. Special guy. We have to play for him and it doesn't matter the score today. We gave everything for him." The Greeks took a deserved lead in the 49th minute when Pavlidis danced through flimsy defending in the England box, before driving the ball past Jordan Pickford. The visitors had three disallowed goals in the match -- the last of which came just minutes before Real Madrid's Bellingham hammered in an 87th-minute equaliser for England. However, Greece were not to be denied a third win in three Nations League matches as England failed to clear the danger in their area and Pavlidis took full advantage and drilled home a late winner. In Group A2, Italy and Belgium played out an eventful 2-2 draw in Rome. The Italians raced into the lead inside 60 seconds when Andrea Cambiaso got his first international goal by bundling home from close range. Mateo Retegui doubled the hosts' lead on 24 minutes, sweeping home with his left foot after a spilled save. Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo pens heartfelt tribute to Rafael Nadal, says 'it has been an honour to witness your journey' - Pellegrini sees red - Italy looked comfortable and were dominating the encounter until they suffered a double blow inside the final 10 minutes of the first half. Lorenzo Pellegrini initially picked up a yellow card for his late lunge on Arthur Theate in the 38th minute but, after a VAR review, the Italy playmaker was instead shown a straight red. Belgium then duly halved the deficit from the resulting free-kick, with Maxim De Cuyper finishing emphatically from 25 yards following a clever set-piece move. Arsenal forward Leandro Trossard completed the Belgian comeback on 61 minutes. A deep corner was nodded back across goal and Trossard ghosted past the static defence to prod the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma from close range. "There are episodes that can change a game, like their goal immediately after we went down to ten men," said Italy coach Luciano Spalletti. "A result doesn't always depend on the football you play and your tactics. Certainly, we could have played better in the second half after a very good first half." Italy remain top of their group with France sitting second after they beat Israel 4-1 in Budapest. Eduardo Camavinga gave France a seventh-minute lead when the goalkeeper fumbled his tame effort, allowing the ball to bounce over the line. Omri Gandelman levelled on 24 minutes, before Christopher Nkunku restored France's advantage four minutes later with a sharp finish. As the clock wound down, the visitors added two more goals to their tally via Matteo Guendouzi and Bradley Barcola. Erling Haaland scored a brace as Norway eased past Slovenia 3-0 in Oslo to sit top of Group B3, three points ahead of Austria who beat Kazakhstan 4-0. Republic of Ireland came from behind in Helsinki to beat Finland 2-1, they sit third in Group B2 behind England. On Friday, Germany visit Bosnia and Herzegovina and Hungary host the Netherlands in Group A3, while Iceland take on Wales in Group B4. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Greece stun England in Nations League, Italy vs Belgium ends in 2-2 stalemate

England interim boss Lee Carsley has revealed Harry Kane will not be in the starting line-up for Thursday's Nations League clash with Greece as his captain recovers from injury. Kane suffered the knock in a collision while playing for Bayern Munich in their 3-3 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt last weekend.

The 31-year-old striker -- England's record goal-scorer -- has been unable to train with the rest of the squad since linking up on Monday. Kane was limited to an individual training programme on Tuesday and Wednesday, with Carsley insisting he would not risk his fitness in the Group B2 tie at Wembley.

"Harry's nursing an injury, a small knock. Something that we won't take a chance with," Carsley told reporters on Wednesday.

Asked to clarify whether Kane will be on the bench, Carsley said: "We're not ruling him out yet of the game, but he won't start the game. "Hopefully he'll be in contention then for Sunday against Finland but, again, time will tell. It's not something I think we should be rushing."

In Kane's absence, Manchester City defender John Stones will captain England for the first time on Thursday. "It's a brilliant achievement for John. Something that he deserves. The amount of caps he's got, the experience he's got, the level of professionalism that he shows within the squad, the example he is to the younger players," Carsley said.

Ahead of his 82nd cap for England, Stones admitted it was a dream come true to lead his country at Wembley.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/shocking-greek-international-george-baldock-31-found-dead-in-pool-state-agency-766143">Shocking! Greek international George Baldock, 31, found dead in pool: state agency</a>

- 'An absolute honour' -

"It's definitely everything that I could have dreamed of as a kid," the 30-year-old said. "For my family to be able to see me walk out as England captain is a special moment and one I can't thank Lee enough for. "To be walking out with the armband on is an absolute honour and a moment I will cherish forever."

Stones' City team-mate Jack Grealish could be sidelined against Greece after the winger sat out training on Wednesday. "Jack just picked up a slight knock yesterday but our attitude would be we wouldn't gamble with any of the players," Carsley said.

Chelsea forward Cole Palmer was named England's men's Player of the Year this week in the latest milestone for the emerging 22-year-old, who already has six goals for the Blues this term. Palmer is expected to continue his remarkable rise by making his first competitive England start on Thursday.

"Cole's in fantastic form," said Carsley, who enjoyed wins over Ireland and Finland in his first two games in charge in September. "I think he's carried that into this week. He's such an exciting player, a player that I've worked with for four or five years now. "Cole, along with a lot of the other attacking players, have put themselves into a great position to start the game tomorrow."

Greece boss Ivan Jovanovic said England are a more dynamic outfit than the side that reached the Euro 2024 final under Gareth Southgate, who quit after that painful 2-1 loss to Spain.

"Southgate did a lot for English football. However the style has changed slightly under Lee Carsley," he said. "He has instilled a bit more of a possession-based style and the players have a bit more creative freedom. "Wembley is a symbol of world football but the team is not here for tourism."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

England interim boss Lee Carsley has revealed Harry Kane will not be in the starting line-up for Thursday's Nations League clash with Greece as his captain recovers from injury.

England interim boss Lee Carsley has revealed Harry Kane will not be in the starting line-up for Thursday's Nations League clash with Greece as his captain recovers from injury. Kane suffered the knock in a collision while playing for Bayern Munich in their 3-3 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt last weekend. The 31-year-old striker -- England's record goal-scorer -- has been unable to train with the rest of the squad since linking up on Monday. Kane was limited to an individual training programme on Tuesday and Wednesday, with Carsley insisting he would not risk his fitness in the Group B2 tie at Wembley. "Harry's nursing an injury, a small knock. Something that we won't take a chance with," Carsley told reporters on Wednesday. Asked to clarify whether Kane will be on the bench, Carsley said: "We're not ruling him out yet of the game, but he won't start the game. "Hopefully he'll be in contention then for Sunday against Finland but, again, time will tell. It's not something I think we should be rushing." In Kane's absence, Manchester City defender John Stones will captain England for the first time on Thursday. "It's a brilliant achievement for John. Something that he deserves. The amount of caps he's got, the experience he's got, the level of professionalism that he shows within the squad, the example he is to the younger players," Carsley said. Ahead of his 82nd cap for England, Stones admitted it was a dream come true to lead his country at Wembley. Also read: Shocking! Greek international George Baldock, 31, found dead in pool: state agency - 'An absolute honour' - "It's definitely everything that I could have dreamed of as a kid," the 30-year-old said. "For my family to be able to see me walk out as England captain is a special moment and one I can't thank Lee enough for. "To be walking out with the armband on is an absolute honour and a moment I will cherish forever." Stones' City team-mate Jack Grealish could be sidelined against Greece after the winger sat out training on Wednesday. "Jack just picked up a slight knock yesterday but our attitude would be we wouldn't gamble with any of the players," Carsley said. Chelsea forward Cole Palmer was named England's men's Player of the Year this week in the latest milestone for the emerging 22-year-old, who already has six goals for the Blues this term. Palmer is expected to continue his remarkable rise by making his first competitive England start on Thursday. "Cole's in fantastic form," said Carsley, who enjoyed wins over Ireland and Finland in his first two games in charge in September. "I think he's carried that into this week. He's such an exciting player, a player that I've worked with for four or five years now. "Cole, along with a lot of the other attacking players, have put themselves into a great position to start the game tomorrow." Greece boss Ivan Jovanovic said England are a more dynamic outfit than the side that reached the Euro 2024 final under Gareth Southgate, who quit after that painful 2-1 loss to Spain. "Southgate did a lot for English football. However the style has changed slightly under Lee Carsley," he said. "He has instilled a bit more of a possession-based style and the players have a bit more creative freedom. "Wembley is a symbol of world football but the team is not here for tourism." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Injured Harry Kane ruled out of England's Nations League clash with Greece

Panathinaikos and Greece international defender George Baldock was found dead in his swimming pool on Wednesday, Greek news reports said. The 31-year-old English-born right-back died at home in the southern Athens suburb of Glyfada, state agency ANA said.

Greece's Super League and several clubs expressed their condolences. State TV ERT said the player was "at the bottom of the pool" and a bottle of alcohol was found at the scene. ANA said Baldock's wife, who is abroad, alerted the owner of the residence after unsuccessfully trying to reach the player on the phone.

Police cars and an ambulance were outside the building and a coroner was called to examine the body, ERT said.

Baldock had joined Panathinaikos in May after a seven-year spell with Sheffield United, relegated from the English Premier League to the Championship last season. Of Greek origin through his father, he was called to the Greek national team in 2022.&nbsp;

He had 12 caps, but had not been selected for the team's Nations League match against England at Wembley on Thursday owing to injury, ERT said.

Baldock had featured for Panathinaikos in a 0-0 draw with Olympiacos in a Greek Super League match on Sunday where he played for 75 minutes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/spanish-couple-under-probe-in-singapore-for-protesting-against-laliga-club-valencias-owner-766090">Spanish couple under probe in Singapore for protesting against LaLiga club Valencia's owner</a>

- 'One of our own' -

Both the Greece team's official website and his club's social media sites on X, formerly Twitter, and Facebook, were blackened in tribute to the player. Manchester United's England international defender Harry Maguire, a former Sheffield United player, posted "RIP" and a heartbreak emoji alongside an image of Baldock on Instagram.

Sheffield United changed their home page to a black and white photo of their former player with the words: "RIP George Baldock.&nbsp;

"Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock," said the club.

Northampton, where Baldock had a loan spell in 2011, wrote on X: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former loanee George Baldock at the tragically young age of 31.

"George made five appearances in 2011 before playing for Oxford United and Sheffield United. Sending our sincerest condolences to George's family and friends."

Baldock's boyhood club MK Dons said they were "deeply devastated and saddened to learn about the shocking news".

"George started his career at Stadium MK, where he worked his way through the youth ranks and made his senior career debut at the Club before reaching the heights of the Premier League in later years.&nbsp;

"You will always be one of our own, George."

The Football Association in England wrote on X: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of George Baldock at the age of 31. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with George's family, friends and team-mates at club and country."

Baldock was nicknamed "Furious George" by Sheffield United fans in tribute to his uncompromising style. "I just love winning. I hate losing and I even hate drawing," he told local media.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Panathinaikos and Greece international defender George Baldock was found dead in his swimming pool on Wednesday, Greek news reports said. The 31-year-old English-born right-back died at home in the southern Athens suburb of Glyfada, state agency ANA said.

Panathinaikos and Greece international defender George Baldock was found dead in his swimming pool on Wednesday, Greek news reports said. The 31-year-old English-born right-back died at home in the southern Athens suburb of Glyfada, state agency ANA said. Greece's Super League and several clubs expressed their condolences. State TV ERT said the player was "at the bottom of the pool" and a bottle of alcohol was found at the scene. ANA said Baldock's wife, who is abroad, alerted the owner of the residence after unsuccessfully trying to reach the player on the phone. Police cars and an ambulance were outside the building and a coroner was called to examine the body, ERT said. Baldock had joined Panathinaikos in May after a seven-year spell with Sheffield United, relegated from the English Premier League to the Championship last season. Of Greek origin through his father, he was called to the Greek national team in 2022. He had 12 caps, but had not been selected for the team's Nations League match against England at Wembley on Thursday owing to injury, ERT said. Baldock had featured for Panathinaikos in a 0-0 draw with Olympiacos in a Greek Super League match on Sunday where he played for 75 minutes. Also read: Spanish couple under probe in Singapore for protesting against LaLiga club Valencia's owner - 'One of our own' - Both the Greece team's official website and his club's social media sites on X, formerly Twitter, and Facebook, were blackened in tribute to the player. Manchester United's England international defender Harry Maguire, a former Sheffield United player, posted "RIP" and a heartbreak emoji alongside an image of Baldock on Instagram. Sheffield United changed their home page to a black and white photo of their former player with the words: "RIP George Baldock. "Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock," said the club. Northampton, where Baldock had a loan spell in 2011, wrote on X: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former loanee George Baldock at the tragically young age of 31. "George made five appearances in 2011 before playing for Oxford United and Sheffield United. Sending our sincerest condolences to George's family and friends." Baldock's boyhood club MK Dons said they were "deeply devastated and saddened to learn about the shocking news". "George started his career at Stadium MK, where he worked his way through the youth ranks and made his senior career debut at the Club before reaching the heights of the Premier League in later years. "You will always be one of our own, George." The Football Association in England wrote on X: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of George Baldock at the age of 31. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with George's family, friends and team-mates at club and country." Baldock was nicknamed "Furious George" by Sheffield United fans in tribute to his uncompromising style. "I just love winning. I hate losing and I even hate drawing," he told local media. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Shocking! Greek international George Baldock, 31, found dead in pool: state agency

A Spanish couple is under investigation in Singapore after protesting in the Asian city-state against the Singaporean owner of Spanish first division football club Valencia, Peter Lim.

Dani Cuesta and his wife Mireia Saez -- who were reportedly on their honeymoon -- were stopped at Singapore airport on Friday when they attempted to board a flight to Bali, Valencia mayor Maria Jose Catala told Spanish radio station Onda Cero Tuesday.

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She added that they have been prevented from leaving the country.

Cuesta had posted photos of himself on social media from several locations in Singapore holding a black and yellow banner that read "Lim go Home", including outside a building where the businessman is believed to live.

A Singapore police spokesperson confirmed Wednesday that a complaint was lodged against a 34-year-old Spanish man and a 30-year-old Spanish woman and their passports "have been impounded".

"They are assisting with investigations for the alleged offence of taking part in a public assembly," the spokesperson said.

Catala said she had spoken to Spain's ambassador to Singapore, who said the couple have not been charged with any crime.

"They can leave their hotel, they are living a relatively normal life in Singapore, but they cannot leave the country," she said.

Singapore has strict laws limiting critical speech and assembly, which includes protests by just one person.

The government argues the rules are needed to maintain social order and harmony, but rights groups say they are overly broad and make the country repressive.

Valencia football club said it hoped for "the best and quickest possible resolution" to the plight of its two supporters.

"Valencia CF and La Liga are in contact with the Spanish embassy in Singapore, who have assured us that both are being advised and assisted in everything necessary with the objective of this being resolved as quickly as possible," it added in a statement.

Lim, one of Singapore's richest men, bought debt-ridden Valencia in 2014, becoming the Spanish side's first foreign owner.

While his arrival was initially enthusiastically received, he failed to turn around the club's fortunes, and many Valencia fans have turned against him.

Protests against Lim have become commonplace in Valencia, with banners saying "Lim go home" regularly sighted at La Liga&nbsp;games at the club's stadium.

Valencia is currently ranked near the bottom of the Spanish league.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A Spanish couple is under investigation in Singapore after protesting in the Asian city-state against the Singaporean owner of Spanish first division football club Valencia, Peter Lim.

A Spanish couple is under investigation in Singapore after protesting in the Asian city-state against the Singaporean owner of Spanish first division football club Valencia, Peter Lim. Dani Cuesta and his wife Mireia Saez -- who were reportedly on their honeymoon -- were stopped at Singapore airport on Friday when they attempted to board a flight to Bali, Valencia mayor Maria Jose Catala told Spanish radio station Onda Cero Tuesday. Also Read: Big change! Wimbledon replaces line judges with electronic system She added that they have been prevented from leaving the country. Cuesta had posted photos of himself on social media from several locations in Singapore holding a black and yellow banner that read "Lim go Home", including outside a building where the businessman is believed to live. A Singapore police spokesperson confirmed Wednesday that a complaint was lodged against a 34-year-old Spanish man and a 30-year-old Spanish woman and their passports "have been impounded". "They are assisting with investigations for the alleged offence of taking part in a public assembly," the spokesperson said. Catala said she had spoken to Spain's ambassador to Singapore, who said the couple have not been charged with any crime. "They can leave their hotel, they are living a relatively normal life in Singapore, but they cannot leave the country," she said. Singapore has strict laws limiting critical speech and assembly, which includes protests by just one person. The government argues the rules are needed to maintain social order and harmony, but rights groups say they are overly broad and make the country repressive. Valencia football club said it hoped for "the best and quickest possible resolution" to the plight of its two supporters. "Valencia CF and La Liga are in contact with the Spanish embassy in Singapore, who have assured us that both are being advised and assisted in everything necessary with the objective of this being resolved as quickly as possible," it added in a statement. Lim, one of Singapore's richest men, bought debt-ridden Valencia in 2014, becoming the Spanish side's first foreign owner. While his arrival was initially enthusiastically received, he failed to turn around the club's fortunes, and many Valencia fans have turned against him. Protests against Lim have become commonplace in Valencia, with banners saying "Lim go home" regularly sighted at La Liga games at the club's stadium. Valencia is currently ranked near the bottom of the Spanish league. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Spanish couple under probe in Singapore for protesting against LaLiga club Valencia's owner

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is back in football after he was announced as the head of operations of football for Red Bull on Wednesday (Oct 9). Klopp, in May, left Liverpool after nine years as in charge of the Merseyside club and will now resume duties at Red Bull. The move comes after Klopp was without a club and was heavily linked with moves with the English national side and Bayern Munich.

<h2>Klopp to start new role with Red Bull</h2>

According to a statement released by the company, "Klopp will not interfere in the day-to-day business of the clubs, but rather take on a higher-level strategic position."

Klopp himself said: "I see my role primarily as a mentor for the coaches and management of the Red Bull clubs."

"After nearly 25 years on the sidelines, I couldn't be more excited to be involved in a project like this."

The proposed move will materialise from 1 Jan 2025 and he will work closely with Red Bull franchises in Austria, Germany and the United States. The former Reds manager waved goodbye to Liverpool having won the League Cup in his final season but was largely popular with the Liverpool fans for helping them win the Premier League in 2020.

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The title win was their first in 30 years while he also won the Champions League in 2019 after a dramatic season. Apart from winning the Premier League, he twice led Liverpool to second place finishes in the Premier League, both times ending the season one point behind champions Manchester City.

According to Sky Germany, the contract with Red Bull includes an exit clause which could see him take a future role with another side. His role includes advice to teams on playing style, transfer strategy coaching and development. However, his role won’t include any day-to-day operations with the football clubs associated with Red Bull.

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is back in football after he was announced as the head of operations of football for Red Bull on Wednesday (Oct 9). Klopp, in May, left Liverpool after nine years as in charge of the Merseyside club and will now resume duties at Red Bull.

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is back in football after he was announced as the head of operations of football for Red Bull on Wednesday (Oct 9). Klopp, in May, left Liverpool after nine years as in charge of the Merseyside club and will now resume duties at Red Bull. The move comes after Klopp was without a club and was heavily linked with moves with the English national side and Bayern Munich. Klopp to start new role with Red Bull According to a statement released by the company, "Klopp will not interfere in the day-to-day business of the clubs, but rather take on a higher-level strategic position." Klopp himself said: "I see my role primarily as a mentor for the coaches and management of the Red Bull clubs." "After nearly 25 years on the sidelines, I couldn't be more excited to be involved in a project like this." The proposed move will materialise from 1 Jan 2025 and he will work closely with Red Bull franchises in Austria, Germany and the United States. The former Reds manager waved goodbye to Liverpool having won the League Cup in his final season but was largely popular with the Liverpool fans for helping them win the Premier League in 2020. ALSO READ | Pak vs Eng, 1st Test: Joe Root continues merry run, becomes England's highest run-scorer in purest format The title win was their first in 30 years while he also won the Champions League in 2019 after a dramatic season. Apart from winning the Premier League, he twice led Liverpool to second place finishes in the Premier League, both times ending the season one point behind champions Manchester City. According to Sky Germany, the contract with Red Bull includes an exit clause which could see him take a future role with another side. His role includes advice to teams on playing style, transfer strategy coaching and development. However, his role won’t include any day-to-day operations with the football clubs associated with Red Bull.

Former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp returns as head of Red Bull football operations

Argentina captain Lionel Messi is ready to return to their line-up when they play Venezuela in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, but midfielder Alexis Mac Allister's availability is in doubt, manager Lionel Scaloni said. Argentina were boosted by the return of Messi for their World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia after the 37-year-old recovered from a right ankle injury, which he picked up during the Copa America final against Colombia in July.

Messi, who plays for Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, had missed their qualifiers against Chile and Colombia. "Messi is fine. He played several games for his team in recent weeks, after not being in the last call-up, which was what we had agreed because he needed to recover and get more minutes," Scaloni told reporters on Tuesday. "Leo is training with the squad and is ready to be part of the team to play against Venezuela, who will be a great rival."

Liverpool's Mac Allister was replaced at half time during the club's 1-0 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League last weekend. "He (Mac Allister) is training separately. We'll see if he makes it to the first game," Scaloni said. "For now, he hasn't been able to join us, and, well, we'll make the decision if he's part of the squad or on the bench or if he plays on Thursday. But it's difficult for him to make it today. "I think we have to take care of him. He's a guy who has a lot of games under his belt and that's the situation today. We hope we don't lose any more players because the situation can change later."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/italian-defender-marco-curto-banned-for-10-matches-for-racially-abusing-south-korean-forward-hwang-hee-chan-765458">Italian defender Marco Curto banned for 10 matches for racially abusing South Korean forward Hwang Hee-chan</a>

Argentina are set to face Venezuela at the Monumental Stadium of Maturin on Thursday, and with the team training at Inter Miami's training centre in Florida, Scaloni said his side was worried about Hurricane Milton.

Hurricane Milton barreled toward Florida's battered Gulf Coast as an enormous Category 5 storm on Tuesday, triggering massive traffic jams and fuel shortages as officials ordered more than 1 million people to flee before it slams into the Tampa Bay area.

"We work, we work calmly, the truth is that the training place is perfect, we work well, but it is always around this issue and especially when there is the security issue, it is a delicate issue," Scaloni said. "The match is important, but safety is much more important. So when you talk about wind, hurricanes, that it happens near, that it happens far away, that the airport closes, well, whether you like it or not, it worries you. "We are worried and we are waiting to see if it is true that we can leave tomorrow, they say that we will be able to leave in the afternoon. We don't have any certainties, but well, on that side we are worried."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi is ready to return to their line-up when they play Venezuela in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, but midfielder Alexis Mac Allister's availability is in doubt, manager Lionel Scaloni said.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi is ready to return to their line-up when they play Venezuela in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, but midfielder Alexis Mac Allister's availability is in doubt, manager Lionel Scaloni said. Argentina were boosted by the return of Messi for their World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia after the 37-year-old recovered from a right ankle injury, which he picked up during the Copa America final against Colombia in July. Messi, who plays for Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, had missed their qualifiers against Chile and Colombia. "Messi is fine. He played several games for his team in recent weeks, after not being in the last call-up, which was what we had agreed because he needed to recover and get more minutes," Scaloni told reporters on Tuesday. "Leo is training with the squad and is ready to be part of the team to play against Venezuela, who will be a great rival." Liverpool's Mac Allister was replaced at half time during the club's 1-0 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League last weekend. "He (Mac Allister) is training separately. We'll see if he makes it to the first game," Scaloni said. "For now, he hasn't been able to join us, and, well, we'll make the decision if he's part of the squad or on the bench or if he plays on Thursday. But it's difficult for him to make it today. "I think we have to take care of him. He's a guy who has a lot of games under his belt and that's the situation today. We hope we don't lose any more players because the situation can change later." Also read: Italian defender Marco Curto banned for 10 matches for racially abusing South Korean forward Hwang Hee-chan Argentina are set to face Venezuela at the Monumental Stadium of Maturin on Thursday, and with the team training at Inter Miami's training centre in Florida, Scaloni said his side was worried about Hurricane Milton. Hurricane Milton barreled toward Florida's battered Gulf Coast as an enormous Category 5 storm on Tuesday, triggering massive traffic jams and fuel shortages as officials ordered more than 1 million people to flee before it slams into the Tampa Bay area. "We work, we work calmly, the truth is that the training place is perfect, we work well, but it is always around this issue and especially when there is the security issue, it is a delicate issue," Scaloni said. "The match is important, but safety is much more important. So when you talk about wind, hurricanes, that it happens near, that it happens far away, that the airport closes, well, whether you like it or not, it worries you. "We are worried and we are waiting to see if it is true that we can leave tomorrow, they say that we will be able to leave in the afternoon. We don't have any certainties, but well, on that side we are worried." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

CONMEBOL WC qualifiers: Argentina skipper Lionel Messi ready to play Venezuela, Mac Allister doubtful

Italian defender Marco Curto has been banned for 10 matches for racially abusing South Korean forward Hwang Hee-chan while playing for Como against Wolverhampton Wanderers in a pre-season friendly in July. Curto, who is currently on loan from Como to Serie B club Cesena, will serve half of the punishment immediately with the other half suspended for two years.

"The player Marco Curto was found responsible for discriminatory behaviour and sanctioned with a 10-match suspension," a FIFA spokesperson said. "The player is ordered to render community services and undergo training and education with an organisation approved by FIFA."

Wolves said the club would file a complaint with UEFA after the incident in the Spanish resort of Marbella that sparked an angry response from Hwang's teammates and led to the dismissal of winger Daniel Podence for punching a Como player.

"We welcome FIFA's decision to sanction Marco Curto following the discriminatory incident during our pre-season friendly against Como 1907," the Premier League club's Director of Football Matt Wild said in a statement. "The suspension issued to the player sends a clear message that racism and discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated in football or society.

"Wolves will always stand firmly against racism and discrimination in any form, and we remain fully committed to creating an environment where everyone feels respected and included."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/france-rugby-announces-overhaul-of-discipline-rules-after-controversial-argentina-tour-765316">France Rugby announces overhaul of discipline rules after controversial Argentina tour</a>

Como representatives were not immediately available for comment outside business hours.

In July, while condemning racism, Como said that Curto had referred to Hwang as "Jackie Chan" - the Hong Kong movie star - after hearing the Wolves players calling the forward by his nickname, "Channy". "As far as our club is concerned our player did not say anything in a derogatory manner," the club said. "We are disappointed that the reaction of certain Wolves players has seen the incident blown out of proportion."

At the last FIFA Congress in Bangkok in May, President Gianni Infantino launched what he described as a "global stand against racism". The governing body promised five areas of action, including mandatory sanctions for incidents of racism in or around matches.

"Racism is a scourge that exists in our society and is one also that is infiltrated in football," Infantino told the gathering of football officials from around the world. "For too long we were not capable of dealing with it in an appropriate way. We need to stand up and fight racism and defeat racism all together."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Italian defender Marco Curto has been banned for 10 matches for racially abusing South Korean forward Hwang Hee-chan while playing for Como against Wolverhampton Wanderers in a pre-season friendly in July.

Italian defender Marco Curto has been banned for 10 matches for racially abusing South Korean forward Hwang Hee-chan while playing for Como against Wolverhampton Wanderers in a pre-season friendly in July. Curto, who is currently on loan from Como to Serie B club Cesena, will serve half of the punishment immediately with the other half suspended for two years. "The player Marco Curto was found responsible for discriminatory behaviour and sanctioned with a 10-match suspension," a FIFA spokesperson said. "The player is ordered to render community services and undergo training and education with an organisation approved by FIFA." Wolves said the club would file a complaint with UEFA after the incident in the Spanish resort of Marbella that sparked an angry response from Hwang's teammates and led to the dismissal of winger Daniel Podence for punching a Como player. "We welcome FIFA's decision to sanction Marco Curto following the discriminatory incident during our pre-season friendly against Como 1907," the Premier League club's Director of Football Matt Wild said in a statement. "The suspension issued to the player sends a clear message that racism and discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated in football or society. "Wolves will always stand firmly against racism and discrimination in any form, and we remain fully committed to creating an environment where everyone feels respected and included." Also read: France Rugby announces overhaul of discipline rules after controversial Argentina tour Como representatives were not immediately available for comment outside business hours. In July, while condemning racism, Como said that Curto had referred to Hwang as "Jackie Chan" - the Hong Kong movie star - after hearing the Wolves players calling the forward by his nickname, "Channy". "As far as our club is concerned our player did not say anything in a derogatory manner," the club said. "We are disappointed that the reaction of certain Wolves players has seen the incident blown out of proportion." At the last FIFA Congress in Bangkok in May, President Gianni Infantino launched what he described as a "global stand against racism". The governing body promised five areas of action, including mandatory sanctions for incidents of racism in or around matches. "Racism is a scourge that exists in our society and is one also that is infiltrated in football," Infantino told the gathering of football officials from around the world. "For too long we were not capable of dealing with it in an appropriate way. We need to stand up and fight racism and defeat racism all together." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Italian defender Marco Curto banned for 10 matches for racially abusing South Korean forward Hwang Hee-chan

France captain Kylian Mbappe is facing criticism in his home country for skipping their upcoming Nations League games against Israel and Belgium while being available to play for Real Madrid.

The forward picked up a muscle injury last month but made his return to the pitch off the bench in his club's Champions League defeat at Lille last Wednesday.

France coach Didier Deschamps left Mbappe out of the squad he announced on Thursday, saying the 25-year-old lacked preparation, having played too few matches.

Mbappe started Real's LaLiga win over Villarreal on Saturday.

"Either you're injured, and you don't play with your club and you're not called up in the national team," former France international Maxime Bossis told French sports daily L'Equipe on Monday.

"But when you come off the bench in the Champions League and you start a league game, it makes things fuzzy. He's a special player. We've known that with Michel Platini, when we still wanted him with us when he was injured."

In a video released by the French Football Federation (FFF) on Monday, Deschamps said: "Kylian embodies a lot of things ... The interests of the clubs and the interests of the national teams inevitably diverge. We must also remember that the employer is the club, not the federation."

Mbappe's situation is more complicated because the former Paris St Germain player is the France captain after being handed the armband ahead of Antoine Griezmann, who last week announced his retirement from international football.

France, second in Group A, face Israel in Budapest on Thursday and travel to Belgium next Monday.

<h2>INTERIM CAPTAIN</h2>

"(The captaincy) is on my mind. But, as I do every time, the key is to discuss it with the players involved," coach Deschamps added.

"Obviously, with Kylian our captain, and Antoine, who was the vice-captain, both missing, it means there will definitely be others for these two matches."

Griezmann's commitment to Les Bleus was never in doubt as the Atletico Madrid forward played a record 84 consecutive matches for his country between 2017 and 2024.

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"As a captain (Mbappe) must be an example for the fans, and he has not been," Fabien Bonnet, spokesperson for the Irresistibles Francais, the main France supporters' group, told L'Equipe.

"What emerges is that the real captain, Antoine Griezmann, is gone."

On choosing the skipper for the Nations League games, Deschamps said: "It’s more about if (I can find) certain players who can handle this responsibility in the moment without it affecting their behaviour or performance.

"That’s why it’s important for me to really know the players on a personal level - their character, their sensitivity -relative to the group."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

France captain Kylian Mbappe is facing criticism in his home country for skipping their upcoming Nations League games against Israel and Belgium while being available to play for Real Madrid.

France captain Kylian Mbappe is facing criticism in his home country for skipping their upcoming Nations League games against Israel and Belgium while being available to play for Real Madrid. The forward picked up a muscle injury last month but made his return to the pitch off the bench in his club's Champions League defeat at Lille last Wednesday. France coach Didier Deschamps left Mbappe out of the squad he announced on Thursday, saying the 25-year-old lacked preparation, having played too few matches. Mbappe started Real's LaLiga win over Villarreal on Saturday. "Either you're injured, and you don't play with your club and you're not called up in the national team," former France international Maxime Bossis told French sports daily L'Equipe on Monday. "But when you come off the bench in the Champions League and you start a league game, it makes things fuzzy. He's a special player. We've known that with Michel Platini, when we still wanted him with us when he was injured." In a video released by the French Football Federation (FFF) on Monday, Deschamps said: "Kylian embodies a lot of things ... The interests of the clubs and the interests of the national teams inevitably diverge. We must also remember that the employer is the club, not the federation." Mbappe's situation is more complicated because the former Paris St Germain player is the France captain after being handed the armband ahead of Antoine Griezmann, who last week announced his retirement from international football. France, second in Group A, face Israel in Budapest on Thursday and travel to Belgium next Monday. INTERIM CAPTAIN "(The captaincy) is on my mind. But, as I do every time, the key is to discuss it with the players involved," coach Deschamps added. "Obviously, with Kylian our captain, and Antoine, who was the vice-captain, both missing, it means there will definitely be others for these two matches." Griezmann's commitment to Les Bleus was never in doubt as the Atletico Madrid forward played a record 84 consecutive matches for his country between 2017 and 2024. ALSO READ | Premier League, Manchester City both claim victory in legal battler over commercial deal rules "As a captain (Mbappe) must be an example for the fans, and he has not been," Fabien Bonnet, spokesperson for the Irresistibles Francais, the main France supporters' group, told L'Equipe. "What emerges is that the real captain, Antoine Griezmann, is gone." On choosing the skipper for the Nations League games, Deschamps said: "It’s more about if (I can find) certain players who can handle this responsibility in the moment without it affecting their behaviour or performance. "That’s why it’s important for me to really know the players on a personal level - their character, their sensitivity -relative to the group." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Kylian Mbappe under fire for skipping France duty but playing for Real Madrid

Lionel Messi penned a heartfelt message to his former Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta after the Spanish midfielder confirmed his retirement from the sport on Monday (Oct 7). The legendary player bows out of the game as one of the greatest players having won the FIFA World Cup, Euro (2008, 2012) and several club honours including the Champions League and La Liga. Iniesta shared a dressing room with Messi during their time together at the Catalonian club forming a deadly partnership.

<h2>Messi pays tribute to Iniesta</h2>

“One of the teammates with the most magic and one of those I enjoyed playing with the most. The ball is going to miss you, and so will all of us...I wish you the best always. You’re a phenomenon,” Messi's Instagram story read.

Messi and Iniesta shared the same dressing between 2005 and 2018 as the two greats won an unprecedented four Champions League titles during that time. They also won two trebles in 2009 and 2015 which highlighted their dominance. During Pep Guardiola's reign between 2008 and 2012, Barcelona were at the peak of its power as they reached the Champions League semifinal in all editions while winning the title in 2009 and 2011.

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They would win four La Liga titles during that period as Barcelona’s core team also dominated the Spanish national side. Iniesta’s biggest highlight during that period was the stoppage winner against Chelsea in the Champions League semifinal second leg at Stamford Bridge in 2009.

A year later he would create history by scoring the winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final against the Netherlands as he scripted history on multiple fronts. Iniesta was part of the Spanish side that won the Euro 2008 and Euro 2012. Interestingly, he was part of the Spanish side in 2012 which brought the concept of “False-9” while playing tiki-taka football with Barcelona at club level.

Lionel Messi penned a heartfelt message to his former Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta after the Spanish midfielder confirmed his retirement from the sport on Monday (Oct 7).

Lionel Messi penned a heartfelt message to his former Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta after the Spanish midfielder confirmed his retirement from the sport on Monday (Oct 7). The legendary player bows out of the game as one of the greatest players having won the FIFA World Cup, Euro (2008, 2012) and several club honours including the Champions League and La Liga. Iniesta shared a dressing room with Messi during their time together at the Catalonian club forming a deadly partnership. Messi pays tribute to Iniesta “One of the teammates with the most magic and one of those I enjoyed playing with the most. The ball is going to miss you, and so will all of us...I wish you the best always. You’re a phenomenon,” Messi's Instagram story read. Messi and Iniesta shared the same dressing between 2005 and 2018 as the two greats won an unprecedented four Champions League titles during that time. They also won two trebles in 2009 and 2015 which highlighted their dominance. During Pep Guardiola's reign between 2008 and 2012, Barcelona were at the peak of its power as they reached the Champions League semifinal in all editions while winning the title in 2009 and 2011. ALSO READ | Explained: How New Zealand's win over Australia favours Team India in ongoing Women's T20 World Cup They would win four La Liga titles during that period as Barcelona’s core team also dominated the Spanish national side. Iniesta’s biggest highlight during that period was the stoppage winner against Chelsea in the Champions League semifinal second leg at Stamford Bridge in 2009. A year later he would create history by scoring the winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final against the Netherlands as he scripted history on multiple fronts. Iniesta was part of the Spanish side that won the Euro 2008 and Euro 2012. Interestingly, he was part of the Spanish side in 2012 which brought the concept of “False-9” while playing tiki-taka football with Barcelona at club level.

Lionel Messi pens heartfelt note for Andres Iniesta as legendary Spanish midfielder confirms retirement

Manchester City and the Premier League both claimed victory on Monday after the champions challenged the English top flight's rules on commercial deals.

City launched legal action against the associated party transaction (APT) rules earlier this year on the grounds they were anti-competitive.

The APT rules are designed to ensure commercial deals with entities linked to a club's owners reflect fair market value.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/paul-pogbas-suspension-reduced-after-experts-supported-claims-of-unintentional-doping-cas-765260">Paul Pogba's suspension reduced after experts support claims of unintentional doping: CAS</a>

The case is separate from an ongoing hearing involving City, with the club fighting 115 charges relating to alleged breaches of Premier League financial rules.

The Premier League said on Monday that City were "unsuccessful in the majority of (their) challenge" and that the tribunal considering the case had determined the APT rules were necessary and pursued a legitimate objective.

But City released a statement saying the tribunal had declared the APT rules "unlawful" and that the league had abused a dominant position under competition law.

The Premier League said the tribunal had supported the legitimacy of the regulations and said it had found them essential to make the profitability and sustainability rules (PSR) effective.&nbsp;

It said the tribunal had agreed with the Premier League that if a transaction was evidently not at fair market value, that would distort competition within the league.

The league also said the panel had rejected City's argument that the purpose of the rules was to discriminate against clubs with ownership from the Gulf region.

The Premier League said the panel found in favour of City in "two respects only" -- that shareholder loans should not be excluded from APT rules and that a "limited number of amendments" to the APT rules made earlier should not be retained.

Manchester City said the panel found the APT rules were "structurally unfair" and that the panel had set aside specific decisions of the Premier League to restate the fair market value of two transactions entered into by the club.

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Manchester City and the Premier League both claimed victory on Monday after the champions challenged the English top flight's rules on commercial deals. City launched legal action against the associated party transaction (APT) rules earlier this year on the grounds they were anti-competitive.

Manchester City and the Premier League both claimed victory on Monday after the champions challenged the English top flight's rules on commercial deals. City launched legal action against the associated party transaction (APT) rules earlier this year on the grounds they were anti-competitive. The APT rules are designed to ensure commercial deals with entities linked to a club's owners reflect fair market value. Also Read: Paul Pogba's suspension reduced after experts support claims of unintentional doping: CAS The case is separate from an ongoing hearing involving City, with the club fighting 115 charges relating to alleged breaches of Premier League financial rules. The Premier League said on Monday that City were "unsuccessful in the majority of (their) challenge" and that the tribunal considering the case had determined the APT rules were necessary and pursued a legitimate objective. But City released a statement saying the tribunal had declared the APT rules "unlawful" and that the league had abused a dominant position under competition law. The Premier League said the tribunal had supported the legitimacy of the regulations and said it had found them essential to make the profitability and sustainability rules (PSR) effective. It said the tribunal had agreed with the Premier League that if a transaction was evidently not at fair market value, that would distort competition within the league. The league also said the panel had rejected City's argument that the purpose of the rules was to discriminate against clubs with ownership from the Gulf region. The Premier League said the panel found in favour of City in "two respects only" -- that shareholder loans should not be excluded from APT rules and that a "limited number of amendments" to the APT rules made earlier should not be retained. Manchester City said the panel found the APT rules were "structurally unfair" and that the panel had set aside specific decisions of the Premier League to restate the fair market value of two transactions entered into by the club. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Premier League, Manchester City both claim victory in legal battler over commercial deal rules

Paul Pogba's doping suspension was cut from four years to 18 months after experts supported the French soccer player's claims of having unintentionally ingested a banned substance, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said on Monday. The France international was provisionally suspended by Italy's national anti-doping organisation (NADO Italia) in September 2023 after testing positive for DHEA - a banned substance that raises levels of testosterone.

CAS reduced the sentence last week, with Pogba saying his "nightmare is over". The 31-year-old, who has a contract with Italy's Juventus until June 2026, will be eligible to return to football in March. In a statement, CAS said Pogba had argued that his ingestion of DHEA was not intentional and had occurred after he consumed a supplement prescribed to him by a medical doctor in Florida.

"Mr Pogba had been given assurances that the medical doctor, who had claimed to treat several high level U.S. and international athletes, was knowledgeable and would be mindful of Mr Pogba's anti-doping obligations under the World Anti-Doping Code...," CAS added. "Mr Pogba's case was supported by several experts. Much of the evidence provided by Mr Pogba was unopposed."

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"The CAS Panel determined, however, that Mr Pogba was not without fault and that, as a professional football player, he should have paid a greater care in the circumstances."

Pogba last played for Juventus in a 2-0 win at Empoli over a year ago. He had a disappointing second spell with Juve due to injuries since he returned to the Turin-based club following his departure from Manchester United on a free transfer in 2022.

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Paul Pogba's doping suspension was cut from four years to 18 months after experts supported the French soccer player's claims of having unintentionally ingested a banned substance, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said on Monday.

Paul Pogba's doping suspension was cut from four years to 18 months after experts supported the French soccer player's claims of having unintentionally ingested a banned substance, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said on Monday. The France international was provisionally suspended by Italy's national anti-doping organisation (NADO Italia) in September 2023 after testing positive for DHEA - a banned substance that raises levels of testosterone. CAS reduced the sentence last week, with Pogba saying his "nightmare is over". The 31-year-old, who has a contract with Italy's Juventus until June 2026, will be eligible to return to football in March. In a statement, CAS said Pogba had argued that his ingestion of DHEA was not intentional and had occurred after he consumed a supplement prescribed to him by a medical doctor in Florida. "Mr Pogba had been given assurances that the medical doctor, who had claimed to treat several high level U.S. and international athletes, was knowledgeable and would be mindful of Mr Pogba's anti-doping obligations under the World Anti-Doping Code...," CAS added. "Mr Pogba's case was supported by several experts. Much of the evidence provided by Mr Pogba was unopposed." Also read: Naomi Osaka pulls out of Japan Open due to back injury "The CAS Panel determined, however, that Mr Pogba was not without fault and that, as a professional football player, he should have paid a greater care in the circumstances." Pogba last played for Juventus in a 2-0 win at Empoli over a year ago. He had a disappointing second spell with Juve due to injuries since he returned to the Turin-based club following his departure from Manchester United on a free transfer in 2022. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Paul Pogba's suspension reduced after experts support claims of unintentional doping: CAS

Mateo Kovacic scored twice as Manchester City clinched a dramatic 3-2 win against Fulham on Saturday.

Pep Guardiola's side suffered a first-half shock when Andreas Pereira put Fulham ahead at the Etihad Stadium.

But Kovacic, filling in for the injured Rodri, struck either side of half-time to settle City's nerves.

The Croatian midfielder's brace was followed by Jeremy Doku's blistering strike before Rodrigo Muniz netted Fulham's second to set up a tense finish.

City remain unbeaten in their first 10 games in all competitions this season, with five wins from seven league matches putting them firmly in contention for a fifth successive title.

They sit in second place, one point behind leaders Liverpool after ending a two-match winless run in the top-flight.

Questions have been asked over how City will cope without the influential Rodri after the Spain international was ruled out for the rest of the season with a serious knee injury.

But while Guardiola may have been concerned at how Fulham were able to take control for spells, in Kovacic they have an able deputy.

City started strongly with Ilkay Gundogan driving just wide and Erling Haaland shooting across the face of goal.

Haaland also had a free-kick blocked and then headed at Bernardo Leno before City were caught napping on Fulham's first attack as Adama Traore broke away from Rico Lewis.

The Spaniard should have punished City but was denied by the feet of Ederson.

City switched off again in 26th minute and this time were made to pay.

They failed to deal with a deep cross from Antonee Robinson and the ball was worked inside to Raul Jimenez, whose clever backheel flick dropped perfectly for Pereira to volley home.

Fulham should have increased their lead moments later as Alex Iwobi teed up Traore but again the former Wolves man erred, scooping over the bar as Ederson closed in.

The Cottagers were to rue their misses as City began their fightback when Kovacic levelled just after the half-hour mark.

Kovacic drove in from the edge of the box, via a deflection off Joachim Anderson, after a corner fell to him invitingly.

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The former Chelsea star put City ahead with an assured finish two minutes after the break.

Silva created the chance with a nice lay-off and Kovacic did the rest, beating Sander Berge with a nice touch and curling in a shot from 18 yards.

Doku bagged the vital third goal in the 82nd minute as he cut inside from the left and rattled a shot into the top corner.

Fulham made City work until the end as Muniz turned to score with a deflected shot two minutes from full-time.

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Mateo Kovacic scored twice as Manchester City clinched a dramatic 3-2 win against Fulham on Saturday. Pep Guardiola's side suffered a first-half shock when Andreas Pereira put Fulham ahead at the Etihad Stadium.

Mateo Kovacic scored twice as Manchester City clinched a dramatic 3-2 win against Fulham on Saturday. Pep Guardiola's side suffered a first-half shock when Andreas Pereira put Fulham ahead at the Etihad Stadium. But Kovacic, filling in for the injured Rodri, struck either side of half-time to settle City's nerves. The Croatian midfielder's brace was followed by Jeremy Doku's blistering strike before Rodrigo Muniz netted Fulham's second to set up a tense finish. City remain unbeaten in their first 10 games in all competitions this season, with five wins from seven league matches putting them firmly in contention for a fifth successive title. They sit in second place, one point behind leaders Liverpool after ending a two-match winless run in the top-flight. Questions have been asked over how City will cope without the influential Rodri after the Spain international was ruled out for the rest of the season with a serious knee injury. But while Guardiola may have been concerned at how Fulham were able to take control for spells, in Kovacic they have an able deputy. City started strongly with Ilkay Gundogan driving just wide and Erling Haaland shooting across the face of goal. Haaland also had a free-kick blocked and then headed at Bernardo Leno before City were caught napping on Fulham's first attack as Adama Traore broke away from Rico Lewis. The Spaniard should have punished City but was denied by the feet of Ederson. City switched off again in 26th minute and this time were made to pay. They failed to deal with a deep cross from Antonee Robinson and the ball was worked inside to Raul Jimenez, whose clever backheel flick dropped perfectly for Pereira to volley home. Fulham should have increased their lead moments later as Alex Iwobi teed up Traore but again the former Wolves man erred, scooping over the bar as Ederson closed in. The Cottagers were to rue their misses as City began their fightback when Kovacic levelled just after the half-hour mark. Kovacic drove in from the edge of the box, via a deflection off Joachim Anderson, after a corner fell to him invitingly. ALSO READ | England skipper Ben Stokes ruled out from first Test against Pakistan The former Chelsea star put City ahead with an assured finish two minutes after the break. Silva created the chance with a nice lay-off and Kovacic did the rest, beating Sander Berge with a nice touch and curling in a shot from 18 yards. Doku bagged the vital third goal in the 82nd minute as he cut inside from the left and rattled a shot into the top corner. Fulham made City work until the end as Muniz turned to score with a deflected shot two minutes from full-time. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Premier League: Man City sink Fulham to get title bid back on track; Arsenal beat resolute Southampton

Juventus were held to a surprise 1-1 home draw by Cagliari on Sunday after a late penalty which led to the Turin giants conceding second place in Serie A to Inter Milan.

Razvan Marin lashed home the 88th-minute equaliser to give Cagliari a point at the Allianz Stadium after Roberto Piccoli was clumsily brought down by Douglas Luiz, who also gave a penalty away in Wednesday's thrilling Champions League win at Leipzig.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-manchester-united-play-fifth-straight-winless-game-with-stalemate-against-aston-villa-765005">Premier League: Manchester United play fifth straight winless game with stalemate against Aston Villa</a>

Romania midfielder Marin's arrowed penalty levelled Dusan Vlahovic's 15th-minute spot-kick and moved Cagliari a point above the relegation zone.

It was the first goal conceded by Juve in Serie A this season and left Thiago Motta's third-placed side three points behind league leaders Napoli after seven fixtures.

"We took out foot off the pedal after our goal, and we can't do that. We need to keep attacking, and attack well," said Motta.

"We created a few opportunities but there was always the feeling that Cagliari could get back into the game. What happened today is all our own fault."

Cagliari could have even snatched a last-gasp win as Adam Obert thumped the post in the fifth minute of stoppage time, with Juve down to 10 men following Francisco Conceicao's sending off almost immediately after Marin's equaliser.

Conceicao picked up a second booking after trying to win Juve's second penalty of the game in a frantic finish to a match which had largely been a drab affair before Luiz was penalised for his challenge following a VAR check.

"I'm pleased to get a point at Juve, it was hard because I had the whole stadium whistling me but I managed to keep my concentration," said Marin.&nbsp;

<h2>Penalty controversy</h2>

Juventus, who were missing Nico Gonzalez, Arkadiusz Milik, Timothy Weah and Gleison Bremer, who suffered a serious knee injury at Leipzig, would have almost certainly had the full three points had Vlahovic not wasted a huge chance in the 78th minute.&nbsp;

Serbia striker Vlahovic, who is on five Serie A goals for the season, somehow shot wide on the rebound after Douglas Luiz's shot was parried by Simone Scuffet.

His opener was controversial too as the penalty was awarded for Cagliari defender Sebastiano Luperto's fingers grazing the ball as he engaged in an aerial tussle with Federico Gatti.

The spot-kick was given after a VAR check as Luperto's arm was high in the air when he touched the ball, but he was landing from his jump and had Gatti leaning on his shoulder while two other players also battled for the ball.

AC Milan can move above both champions Inter and Juve with a win at Fiorentina in the day's final fixture.

Juve have been joined on 13 points by their next opponents Lazio, who are fourth after inflicting a first defeat of the season on surprise package Empoli with a 2-1 win in Rome.

Pedro slammed home the winner with four minutes remaining as Lazio who came back from Sebstiano Esposito's early opener. It was Lazio's fourth straight win in all competitions.

Lazio, who levelled through Mattia Zaccagni in first-half stoppage time, also had Valentin Castellanos' penalty saved by Empoli's impressive goalkeeper Devis Vasquez.

Bologna's difficult start to life under Vincenzo Italiano continued with a goalless draw with Parma, who had to play most of the second half a man down after Woyo Coulibaly's sending off seven minutes after the break.

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Juventus were held to a surprise 1-1 home draw by Cagliari on Sunday after a late penalty which led to the Turin giants conceding second place in Serie A to Inter Milan.

Juventus were held to a surprise 1-1 home draw by Cagliari on Sunday after a late penalty which led to the Turin giants conceding second place in Serie A to Inter Milan. Razvan Marin lashed home the 88th-minute equaliser to give Cagliari a point at the Allianz Stadium after Roberto Piccoli was clumsily brought down by Douglas Luiz, who also gave a penalty away in Wednesday's thrilling Champions League win at Leipzig. Also Read: Premier League: Manchester United play fifth straight winless game with stalemate against Aston Villa Romania midfielder Marin's arrowed penalty levelled Dusan Vlahovic's 15th-minute spot-kick and moved Cagliari a point above the relegation zone. It was the first goal conceded by Juve in Serie A this season and left Thiago Motta's third-placed side three points behind league leaders Napoli after seven fixtures. "We took out foot off the pedal after our goal, and we can't do that. We need to keep attacking, and attack well," said Motta. "We created a few opportunities but there was always the feeling that Cagliari could get back into the game. What happened today is all our own fault." Cagliari could have even snatched a last-gasp win as Adam Obert thumped the post in the fifth minute of stoppage time, with Juve down to 10 men following Francisco Conceicao's sending off almost immediately after Marin's equaliser. Conceicao picked up a second booking after trying to win Juve's second penalty of the game in a frantic finish to a match which had largely been a drab affair before Luiz was penalised for his challenge following a VAR check. "I'm pleased to get a point at Juve, it was hard because I had the whole stadium whistling me but I managed to keep my concentration," said Marin. Penalty controversy Juventus, who were missing Nico Gonzalez, Arkadiusz Milik, Timothy Weah and Gleison Bremer, who suffered a serious knee injury at Leipzig, would have almost certainly had the full three points had Vlahovic not wasted a huge chance in the 78th minute. Serbia striker Vlahovic, who is on five Serie A goals for the season, somehow shot wide on the rebound after Douglas Luiz's shot was parried by Simone Scuffet. His opener was controversial too as the penalty was awarded for Cagliari defender Sebastiano Luperto's fingers grazing the ball as he engaged in an aerial tussle with Federico Gatti. The spot-kick was given after a VAR check as Luperto's arm was high in the air when he touched the ball, but he was landing from his jump and had Gatti leaning on his shoulder while two other players also battled for the ball. AC Milan can move above both champions Inter and Juve with a win at Fiorentina in the day's final fixture. Juve have been joined on 13 points by their next opponents Lazio, who are fourth after inflicting a first defeat of the season on surprise package Empoli with a 2-1 win in Rome. Pedro slammed home the winner with four minutes remaining as Lazio who came back from Sebstiano Esposito's early opener. It was Lazio's fourth straight win in all competitions. Lazio, who levelled through Mattia Zaccagni in first-half stoppage time, also had Valentin Castellanos' penalty saved by Empoli's impressive goalkeeper Devis Vasquez. Bologna's difficult start to life under Vincenzo Italiano continued with a goalless draw with Parma, who had to play most of the second half a man down after Woyo Coulibaly's sending off seven minutes after the break. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Serie A: Juventus concede second place after controversial penalty in draw against Cagliari

Manchester United's winless run stretched to five games in a 0-0 draw at Aston Villa on Sunday that did little to ease the pressure on Erik ten Hag.

Bruno Fernandes hit the crossbar with the best effort from either side with a second-half free-kick but United have now failed to score in their last three Premier League games.

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A point leaves Ten Hag's men still down in 14th, having won just two of their opening seven league games of the season.

Fifth-placed Villa missed the chance to move into the top four as they were unable to repeat their heroics of beating Bayern Munich in midweek.

United's 3-0 humiliation on home soil by Tottenham last weekend had plunged Ten Hag's job back into peril.

A 3-3 draw against Porto in the Europa League on Thursday did the Dutchman's case little favours as United blew an early two-goal lead to trail 3-2 before Harry Maguire's injury-time leveller.

Ten Hag reacted by dropping centre-backs Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt after their chastening night in Portugal with Maguire and veteran Jonny Evans brought back in to the starting line-up.

Villa had a far more memorable European night in midweek when Bayern were beaten 1-0 as the Champions League returned to Birmingham for the first time in over 40 years.

Both sides showed signs of fatigue as the match failed to spark into life.

Ten Hag controversially replaced Marcus Rashford at half-time in Porto after he had scored and set up Rasmus Hojlund's second for United inside the opening 20 minutes.

The United boss said that decision was motivated by managing the minutes of his wingers and Rashford was the visitors' biggest threat.

The England international cut inside and forced Emi Martinez into the only save of the first half with a powerful strike after five minutes.

Morgan Rogers fired wide at the other end, but United's reshaped defence held out with little problems until the break.

Ten Hag was forced into another defensive reshuffle at half-time as Maguire and Noussair Mazraoui were forced off injured as De Ligt and Victor Lindelof came on.

Rashford forced Martinez into another good save with a blistering shot from outside the box.

But he was lucky not to be sent-off for two bookable offences just minutes apart.

Rashford had been booked when he brought down Leon Bailey and was swiftly substituted by Ten Hag to avoid a United dismissal for the third consecutive game.

Fernandes' red card against Tottenham had been rescinded to allow him to play and the United captain came as close to anyone to scoring a winner with a free-kick that came back off the bar.

Unai Emery turned to Villa's super sub Jhon Duran to win the game.

The Colombian has scored five goals off the bench this season but even he could not liven up a sluggish Villa performance.

They did have one big chance to snatch all three points when De Ligt failed to cut out a cross and Jaden Philogene's shot was deflected wide by Diogo Dalot.

A return of eight points from their opening seven league games in United's worst since 1989.

Co-owner Jim Ratcliffe was in the stands at Villa Park and with a two-week international break to come, the United hierarchy must decide whether to hand Ten Hag a stay of execution or decide it's time for change.

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Manchester United's winless run stretched to five games in a 0-0 draw at Aston Villa on Sunday that did little to ease the pressure on Erik ten Hag. Bruno Fernandes hit the crossbar with the best effort from either side with a second-half free-kick but United have now failed to score in their last three Premier League games.

Manchester United's winless run stretched to five games in a 0-0 draw at Aston Villa on Sunday that did little to ease the pressure on Erik ten Hag. Bruno Fernandes hit the crossbar with the best effort from either side with a second-half free-kick but United have now failed to score in their last three Premier League games. Also Read: Moto GP: Francesco Bagnaia holds off Jorge Martin to seal Japanese Grand Prix double A point leaves Ten Hag's men still down in 14th, having won just two of their opening seven league games of the season. Fifth-placed Villa missed the chance to move into the top four as they were unable to repeat their heroics of beating Bayern Munich in midweek. United's 3-0 humiliation on home soil by Tottenham last weekend had plunged Ten Hag's job back into peril. A 3-3 draw against Porto in the Europa League on Thursday did the Dutchman's case little favours as United blew an early two-goal lead to trail 3-2 before Harry Maguire's injury-time leveller. Ten Hag reacted by dropping centre-backs Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt after their chastening night in Portugal with Maguire and veteran Jonny Evans brought back in to the starting line-up. Villa had a far more memorable European night in midweek when Bayern were beaten 1-0 as the Champions League returned to Birmingham for the first time in over 40 years. Both sides showed signs of fatigue as the match failed to spark into life. Ten Hag controversially replaced Marcus Rashford at half-time in Porto after he had scored and set up Rasmus Hojlund's second for United inside the opening 20 minutes. The United boss said that decision was motivated by managing the minutes of his wingers and Rashford was the visitors' biggest threat. The England international cut inside and forced Emi Martinez into the only save of the first half with a powerful strike after five minutes. Morgan Rogers fired wide at the other end, but United's reshaped defence held out with little problems until the break. Ten Hag was forced into another defensive reshuffle at half-time as Maguire and Noussair Mazraoui were forced off injured as De Ligt and Victor Lindelof came on. Rashford forced Martinez into another good save with a blistering shot from outside the box. But he was lucky not to be sent-off for two bookable offences just minutes apart. Rashford had been booked when he brought down Leon Bailey and was swiftly substituted by Ten Hag to avoid a United dismissal for the third consecutive game. Fernandes' red card against Tottenham had been rescinded to allow him to play and the United captain came as close to anyone to scoring a winner with a free-kick that came back off the bar. Unai Emery turned to Villa's super sub Jhon Duran to win the game. The Colombian has scored five goals off the bench this season but even he could not liven up a sluggish Villa performance. They did have one big chance to snatch all three points when De Ligt failed to cut out a cross and Jaden Philogene's shot was deflected wide by Diogo Dalot. A return of eight points from their opening seven league games in United's worst since 1989. Co-owner Jim Ratcliffe was in the stands at Villa Park and with a two-week international break to come, the United hierarchy must decide whether to hand Ten Hag a stay of execution or decide it's time for change. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Premier League: Manchester United play fifth straight winless game with stalemate against Aston Villa

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