Karim Benzema wants to leave his Saudi club Al-Ittihad after a bust-up with management, a source close to the club told AFP on Tuesday (Jan 23).

The 36-year-old former Real Madrid striker held a "raging" meeting with the club and its Argentinian coach Marcelo Gallardo last Friday, the source said.

Benzema told his coach and club management "he doesn't feel he is able to give his best because of the current pressure at Ittihad".

"Benzema asked to leave Ittihad temporarily to change the atmosphere," the source added.

Al-Ittihad offered to loan the French striker to another Saudi Pro League club but he has refused, the source added.

Contacted by AFP, Benzema's entourage declined to comment.

The 2022 Ballon d'Or winner, who was one of the highest-profile signings of the Saudi League last year and is reportedly being paid $109 million a season, returned to the club 17 days late after its mid-season break.

He has since been training alone in Jeddah, according to the source, not allowed for "discipline reasons" to rejoin his team-mates who are at a training camp in Dubai.

Reports in England say Premier League club Chelsea would be keen to take Benzema on loan in the current transfer window.

His former club in France, Lyon, could not afford his wages, according to their spokesman.

He said a possible loan deal for Benzema "had never been studied or considered", adding: "It is not at all within Lyon's financial means." 
 
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A source close to the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Al-Ittihad and three other Saudi clubs, said anyway "there is no option that Benzema leaves this month".

Benzema has scored nine goals in the Saudi Pro League this season but is well behind Cristiano Ronaldo, who has netted 20 times for Al-Nassr.

Al-Ittihad are seventh in the division after three successive defeats. They have scored the fewest goals and conceded the most of the four teams owned by the PIF.

The league is due to resume on February 7. 
 
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Another high-profile recruitment to the Saudi league, former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson, quit his club Al-Ettifaq to join Dutch side Ajax last week.

Henderson insisted his decision to return to Europe was made for football reasons because he wants to be in contention for England's Euro 2024 squad.

His family reportedly found it hard to settle in the Gulf and his reputation as a supporter of LGBTQ rights was tarnished by his move to Saudi Arabia.

Karim Benzema wants to leave his Saudi club Al-Ittihad after a bust-up with management, a source close to the club told AFP on Tuesday (Jan 23). The 36-year-old former Real Madrid striker held a "raging" meeting with the club and its Argentinian coach Marcelo Gallardo last Friday, the source said.

Karim Benzema wants to leave his Saudi club Al-Ittihad after a bust-up with management, a source close to the club told AFP on Tuesday (Jan 23). The 36-year-old former Real Madrid striker held a "raging" meeting with the club and its Argentinian coach Marcelo Gallardo last Friday, the source said. Benzema told his coach and club management "he doesn't feel he is able to give his best because of the current pressure at Ittihad". "Benzema asked to leave Ittihad temporarily to change the atmosphere," the source added. Al-Ittihad offered to loan the French striker to another Saudi Pro League club but he has refused, the source added. Contacted by AFP, Benzema's entourage declined to comment. The 2022 Ballon d'Or winner, who was one of the highest-profile signings of the Saudi League last year and is reportedly being paid $109 million a season, returned to the club 17 days late after its mid-season break. He has since been training alone in Jeddah, according to the source, not allowed for "discipline reasons" to rejoin his team-mates who are at a training camp in Dubai. Reports in England say Premier League club Chelsea would be keen to take Benzema on loan in the current transfer window. His former club in France, Lyon, could not afford his wages, according to their spokesman. He said a possible loan deal for Benzema "had never been studied or considered", adding: "It is not at all within Lyon's financial means." Also read | Explained | Golf, soccer, cricket and more - Is Saudi Arabia the next sporting wonderland? A source close to the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Al-Ittihad and three other Saudi clubs, said anyway "there is no option that Benzema leaves this month". Benzema has scored nine goals in the Saudi Pro League this season but is well behind Cristiano Ronaldo, who has netted 20 times for Al-Nassr. Al-Ittihad are seventh in the division after three successive defeats. They have scored the fewest goals and conceded the most of the four teams owned by the PIF. The league is due to resume on February 7. Watch | Decoding rise of Indian Football through Naupang League × Another high-profile recruitment to the Saudi league, former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson, quit his club Al-Ettifaq to join Dutch side Ajax last week. Henderson insisted his decision to return to Europe was made for football reasons because he wants to be in contention for England's Euro 2024 squad. His family reportedly found it hard to settle in the Gulf and his reputation as a supporter of LGBTQ rights was tarnished by his move to Saudi Arabia.

Karim Benzema intends to quit Saudi club after fallout with management: Reports

Palestine&nbsp;reached the Asian Cup knockout rounds for the first time on Tuesday with their maiden win in the history of the competition, but China's fate was sealed at the first hurdle. Syria also made history by reaching the last 16 in Qatar, with Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates advancing as well on another night of high drama.

Palestine&nbsp;narrowly missed out on second spot in Group C but squeezed through as one of the four best third-placed teams after beating Hong Kong 3-0. The victory in Doha comes against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war in the Palestinian territory of Gaza. Palestinian players and staff have lost loved ones in the conflict and said before the tournament that they hoped to provide some comfort to those suffering back home.

Oday Dabbagh scored once in each half and Zeid Qunbar grabbed another before&nbsp;Palestine&nbsp;were given a late scare when Hong Kong missed a penalty. "Thank you to the fans who are coming to support&nbsp;Palestine," captain Musab Al-Battat told beIN SPORTS after the game. "Thank you from our heart."&nbsp;

UAE went through in second place despite losing 2-1 to group winners Iran. Syria also reached the knockout rounds for the first time with a 1-0 win over Igor Stimac's India in Group B. Omar Khribin was Syria's hero, his 76th-minute goal also confirming China's early exit from the competition.

China had hoped to sneak through with their third place and two points in Group A. They failed to score in any of their three matches.

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<h2>- 'We don't want to stop' -</h2>

Australia topped Group B following a 1-1 draw with Uzbekistan, with Hector Cuper's Syria progressing with those two teams as one of the best third-placed teams. India came bottom and are heading home with no wins or goals.

"We are very happy with the qualification, very proud of my players, they made huge sacrifices to get this result," the veteran Argentine coach Cuper said. "We played the game with one aim in our mind -- to win, and we managed to do that. "We don't want to stop here."

Despite another early exit -- in what was a hard group -- Stimac said India would take home "good lessons". "It was a learning experience for the boys," he said, having seen his team beaten 2-0 by Australia and 3-0 by Uzbekistan. "My satisfaction is that we managed to create chances against Australia, Uzbekistan and Syria."

In the other game between Uzbekistan and Australia, who had already qualified, the Socceroos took a controversial lead through a Martin Boyle penalty in first-half stoppage time. A VAR check harshly ruled that the ball had hit Uzbek defender Odiljon Hamrobekov's hand in the build-up as he slid in to tackle Australian forward Kusini Yengi.

Boyle dispatched the penalty low into the corner. "If this is a penalty I don't understand the rules. There is no intention," said Uzbekistan coach Srecko Katanec. The Uzbeks, who have been touted as outsiders for the title, levelled 12 minutes from time when substitute Azizbek Turgunboev got on the end of a cross to head home.

On Wednesday, pre-tournament favourites Japan will look to get their tournament back on track and seal their spot in the knockouts when they face Indonesia, who can also still advance. Japan were stunned 2-1 by Iraq last time out, putting the Iraqis through.

Palestine reached the Asian Cup knockout rounds for the first time on Tuesday with their maiden win in the history of the competition, but China's fate was sealed at the first hurdle.

Palestine reached the Asian Cup knockout rounds for the first time on Tuesday with their maiden win in the history of the competition, but China's fate was sealed at the first hurdle. Syria also made history by reaching the last 16 in Qatar, with Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates advancing as well on another night of high drama. Palestine narrowly missed out on second spot in Group C but squeezed through as one of the four best third-placed teams after beating Hong Kong 3-0. The victory in Doha comes against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war in the Palestinian territory of Gaza. Palestinian players and staff have lost loved ones in the conflict and said before the tournament that they hoped to provide some comfort to those suffering back home. Oday Dabbagh scored once in each half and Zeid Qunbar grabbed another before Palestine were given a late scare when Hong Kong missed a penalty. "Thank you to the fans who are coming to support Palestine," captain Musab Al-Battat told beIN SPORTS after the game. "Thank you from our heart." UAE went through in second place despite losing 2-1 to group winners Iran. Syria also reached the knockout rounds for the first time with a 1-0 win over Igor Stimac's India in Group B. Omar Khribin was Syria's hero, his 76th-minute goal also confirming China's early exit from the competition. China had hoped to sneak through with their third place and two points in Group A. They failed to score in any of their three matches. Also read: Chelsea thrash Middlesbrough 6-1 to enter League Cup final × - 'We don't want to stop' - Australia topped Group B following a 1-1 draw with Uzbekistan, with Hector Cuper's Syria progressing with those two teams as one of the best third-placed teams. India came bottom and are heading home with no wins or goals. "We are very happy with the qualification, very proud of my players, they made huge sacrifices to get this result," the veteran Argentine coach Cuper said. "We played the game with one aim in our mind -- to win, and we managed to do that. "We don't want to stop here." Despite another early exit -- in what was a hard group -- Stimac said India would take home "good lessons". "It was a learning experience for the boys," he said, having seen his team beaten 2-0 by Australia and 3-0 by Uzbekistan. "My satisfaction is that we managed to create chances against Australia, Uzbekistan and Syria." In the other game between Uzbekistan and Australia, who had already qualified, the Socceroos took a controversial lead through a Martin Boyle penalty in first-half stoppage time. A VAR check harshly ruled that the ball had hit Uzbek defender Odiljon Hamrobekov's hand in the build-up as he slid in to tackle Australian forward Kusini Yengi. Boyle dispatched the penalty low into the corner. "If this is a penalty I don't understand the rules. There is no intention," said Uzbekistan coach Srecko Katanec. The Uzbeks, who have been touted as outsiders for the title, levelled 12 minutes from time when substitute Azizbek Turgunboev got on the end of a cross to head home. On Wednesday, pre-tournament favourites Japan will look to get their tournament back on track and seal their spot in the knockouts when they face Indonesia, who can also still advance. Japan were stunned 2-1 by Iraq last time out, putting the Iraqis through.

HISTORY MADE! Palestine enter Asian Cup last 16 for first time as China bow out

Chelsea&nbsp;reached the League Cup final with a 6-1 thrashing of Middlesbrough in their semi-final second leg on Tuesday, providing coach Mauricio Pochettino a measure of relief after a poor first half to the season. The big-spending Londoners, who lie a lowly ninth in the Premier League, had squandered a hatful of chances in the first leg away two weeks ago which Middlesbrough won 1-0.

But Tuesday's game underlined the gulf in quality between the Premier League side and their second-tier visitors with the tie finishing 6-2 on aggregate. "Today we were very clinical in front of goal. We missed that in the first leg and we were disappointed. Today we were really good and I think that is the difference," Pochettino told Sky Sports.

Middlesbrough, missing key players through injury, could not repeat their defensive heroics of the first leg and, after conceding an own-goal through captain Jonny Howson in the 15th minute, were already 4-0 down by halftime.

Cole Palmer put away two for&nbsp;Chelsea, in the 42nd and 77th minutes, as the Blues ran rings round their opponents with a sharp, flowing, passing game. "I missed three sitters in the first game so it was always in the back of my mind coming into this game. To score two and go through to Wembley, I'm happy," Palmer told Sky Sports. "We've not had the best of starts, there is no hiding it but to go to Wembley is a great opportunity to get a trophy and we're looking forward to it."

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Pochettino praised Palmer's intelligence on the pitch. The forward has now scored 10 goals in his first season with&nbsp;Chelsea. "He is a player with an amazing talent. It is a player that understands the game. He has the quality and the talent to see the situation and to read the game in another aspect," the Argentine coach said.

Enzo Fernandez, Axel Disasi and Noni Madueke also got on the scoresheet, while Morgan Rogers scored a consolation goal for Boro in the 88th minute. Chelsea, who have won the trophy five times, most recently in 2015, will meet either Liverpool or Fulham, who play on Wednesday, in the Wembley final on Feb. 25. The Blues last reached the final two years ago, losing to Liverpool on penalties.

Chelsea reached the League Cup final with a 6-1 thrashing of Middlesbrough in their semi-final second leg on Tuesday, providing coach Mauricio Pochettino a measure of relief after a poor first half to the season.

Chelsea reached the League Cup final with a 6-1 thrashing of Middlesbrough in their semi-final second leg on Tuesday, providing coach Mauricio Pochettino a measure of relief after a poor first half to the season. The big-spending Londoners, who lie a lowly ninth in the Premier League, had squandered a hatful of chances in the first leg away two weeks ago which Middlesbrough won 1-0. But Tuesday's game underlined the gulf in quality between the Premier League side and their second-tier visitors with the tie finishing 6-2 on aggregate. "Today we were very clinical in front of goal. We missed that in the first leg and we were disappointed. Today we were really good and I think that is the difference," Pochettino told Sky Sports. Middlesbrough, missing key players through injury, could not repeat their defensive heroics of the first leg and, after conceding an own-goal through captain Jonny Howson in the 15th minute, were already 4-0 down by halftime. Cole Palmer put away two for Chelsea, in the 42nd and 77th minutes, as the Blues ran rings round their opponents with a sharp, flowing, passing game. "I missed three sitters in the first game so it was always in the back of my mind coming into this game. To score two and go through to Wembley, I'm happy," Palmer told Sky Sports. "We've not had the best of starts, there is no hiding it but to go to Wembley is a great opportunity to get a trophy and we're looking forward to it." Also read: Karim Benzema intends to quit Saudi club after fallout with management: Reports Pochettino praised Palmer's intelligence on the pitch. The forward has now scored 10 goals in his first season with Chelsea. "He is a player with an amazing talent. It is a player that understands the game. He has the quality and the talent to see the situation and to read the game in another aspect," the Argentine coach said. Enzo Fernandez, Axel Disasi and Noni Madueke also got on the scoresheet, while Morgan Rogers scored a consolation goal for Boro in the 88th minute. Chelsea, who have won the trophy five times, most recently in 2015, will meet either Liverpool or Fulham, who play on Wednesday, in the Wembley final on Feb. 25. The Blues last reached the final two years ago, losing to Liverpool on penalties.

Chelsea thrash Middlesbrough 6-1 to enter League Cup final

Debutants Tajikistan sealed a place in the knockout rounds of the Asian Cup on Monday with a battling 2-1 win over 10-man Lebanon that included three lovely goals and another two strikes ruled out by VAR.

China's 1-0 loss to hosts Qatar meant Tajikistan went through in second place from Group A on a night of drama.

Before the third and final round of games, holders Qatar were the only team to have scored a goal in the group, and any of the other three had a shot at finishing behind them in second.

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In a stadium festooned with their cedar-tree flags, Lebanon took control of the game early, launching repeated attacks but finding no more penetration than they had in their previous two games.

Tajikistan were mostly restricted to shots from outside the box until the stroke of half time, when midfielder Mabatshoev Shervoni slalomed into the Lebanon area, his attempted cross taking a huge deflection off Lebanon's Robert Melki to loop over the wrong-footed goalkeeper and into the net.

But Tajik celebrations were cut short when the referee ruled the goal out for the tightest of offsides.

Their misery was compounded almost immediately after the restart when Bangkok United forward Bassel Jradi arched in a delicious strike from the edge of the area and inside the far post.

But Lebanon soon had a man sent off when a VAR check upgraded Kassem El Zein's yellow card -- for a studs-up, over-the-ball tackle -- to a red.

With a man advantage, Tajikistan camped out in the opposition half, and as the 70th minute approached they once again thought they had scored.

But Alisher Dzhalilov's goal was scratched off, again for a cruelly slender offside.

When their equaliser did finally arrive, there could be no doubt, Parvizdzhon Umarbaev topping Jradi's strike with a curling free kick to bring stunned silence to the Jassim Bin Hamid Stadium.

As things stood the Tajiks were going through in second, but they continued to push for a winner.

No sooner had the fourth official signalled a whopping 16 minutes of added time, than they got it, substitute Nuriddin Khamrokulov flicking a delicate backwards header over goalkeeper Mostafa Matar.

Lebanon's Hilal El-Helwe had a chance to pull one back, at the death, but shot wide as they exited the tournament.

Debutants Tajikistan sealed a place in the knockout rounds of the Asian Cup on Monday with a battling 2-1 win over 10-man Lebanon that included three lovely goals and another two strikes ruled out by VAR.

Debutants Tajikistan sealed a place in the knockout rounds of the Asian Cup on Monday with a battling 2-1 win over 10-man Lebanon that included three lovely goals and another two strikes ruled out by VAR. China's 1-0 loss to hosts Qatar meant Tajikistan went through in second place from Group A on a night of drama. Before the third and final round of games, holders Qatar were the only team to have scored a goal in the group, and any of the other three had a shot at finishing behind them in second. Also Read: Sania Mirza sought divorce from Shoaib Malik because she was 'unhappy with him meeting other women': Report In a stadium festooned with their cedar-tree flags, Lebanon took control of the game early, launching repeated attacks but finding no more penetration than they had in their previous two games. Tajikistan were mostly restricted to shots from outside the box until the stroke of half time, when midfielder Mabatshoev Shervoni slalomed into the Lebanon area, his attempted cross taking a huge deflection off Lebanon's Robert Melki to loop over the wrong-footed goalkeeper and into the net. But Tajik celebrations were cut short when the referee ruled the goal out for the tightest of offsides. Their misery was compounded almost immediately after the restart when Bangkok United forward Bassel Jradi arched in a delicious strike from the edge of the area and inside the far post. But Lebanon soon had a man sent off when a VAR check upgraded Kassem El Zein's yellow card -- for a studs-up, over-the-ball tackle -- to a red. With a man advantage, Tajikistan camped out in the opposition half, and as the 70th minute approached they once again thought they had scored. But Alisher Dzhalilov's goal was scratched off, again for a cruelly slender offside. When their equaliser did finally arrive, there could be no doubt, Parvizdzhon Umarbaev topping Jradi's strike with a curling free kick to bring stunned silence to the Jassim Bin Hamid Stadium. As things stood the Tajiks were going through in second, but they continued to push for a winner. No sooner had the fourth official signalled a whopping 16 minutes of added time, than they got it, substitute Nuriddin Khamrokulov flicking a delicate backwards header over goalkeeper Mostafa Matar. Lebanon's Hilal El-Helwe had a chance to pull one back, at the death, but shot wide as they exited the tournament.

Asian Cup: Debutant Tajikistan seal knockout berth with win over 10-man Lebanon

Liverpool&nbsp;moved five points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 4-0 demolition of Bournemouth that extended their unbeaten league run to 14 games on Sunday. The visitors were frustrated in a cagey first half of few goal-scoring chances but found a higher gear after the break with Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota both scoring twice.

Nunez made it 1-0 in the 49th minute after a slick passing move carved up Bournemouth's defence and the influential Jota put the game out of reach of the hosts with two clinical finishes in the 70th and 79th minutes. Uruguayan Nunez put the seal on a dominant&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;display with his second goal in stoppage time.

Liverpool&nbsp;have 48 points from 21 games with champions Manchester City, Arsenal and Aston Villa on 43 points. City do have a game in hand of Juergen Klopp's side. Bournemouth are in 12th place with 25 points. Klopp admitted he was not happy with what he witnessed in the first half but was delighted that even without absent leading scorer Mohamed Salah his side showed they have plenty of firepower.

"We were not flexible enough in the first half and it was not a good game and I told them at halftime it was not great," Klopp told Sky Sports. "In the second half we changed formation and were all of a sudden much more fluent. We scored the goal and then everything looked different. It's great for Darwin and great for Diogo."

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Bournemouth's Justin Kluivert was involved in the main first-half action, getting away with a heavy tackle on Luis Diaz and then almost creating a goal for the hosts. Liverpool&nbsp;switched Nunez to a more central role after the break and it soon paid dividends. Curtis Jones laid off a long pass to Jota who then picked out Nunez with a first-time pass and the finish was never in doubt.

Jota made it 2-0 when he was picked out by Cody Gakpo and the Portuguese struck again with another cool finish after miss-kicking his initial shot after being set up by Premier League debutant Conor Bradley who got his chance in the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Joe Gomez provided the assist for Nunez's volleyed second goal in stoppage time, meaning Nunez is the first player to 10 goals and 10 assists for a Premier League club in all competitions this season.

Liverpool moved five points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 4-0 demolition of Bournemouth that extended their unbeaten league run to 14 games on Sunday.

Liverpool moved five points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 4-0 demolition of Bournemouth that extended their unbeaten league run to 14 games on Sunday. The visitors were frustrated in a cagey first half of few goal-scoring chances but found a higher gear after the break with Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota both scoring twice. Nunez made it 1-0 in the 49th minute after a slick passing move carved up Bournemouth's defence and the influential Jota put the game out of reach of the hosts with two clinical finishes in the 70th and 79th minutes. Uruguayan Nunez put the seal on a dominant Liverpool display with his second goal in stoppage time. Liverpool have 48 points from 21 games with champions Manchester City, Arsenal and Aston Villa on 43 points. City do have a game in hand of Juergen Klopp's side. Bournemouth are in 12th place with 25 points. Klopp admitted he was not happy with what he witnessed in the first half but was delighted that even without absent leading scorer Mohamed Salah his side showed they have plenty of firepower. "We were not flexible enough in the first half and it was not a good game and I told them at halftime it was not great," Klopp told Sky Sports. "In the second half we changed formation and were all of a sudden much more fluent. We scored the goal and then everything looked different. It's great for Darwin and great for Diogo." Also read: Denver Nuggets roll past Washington Wizards as Nikola Jokic pours in 42 Bournemouth's Justin Kluivert was involved in the main first-half action, getting away with a heavy tackle on Luis Diaz and then almost creating a goal for the hosts. Liverpool switched Nunez to a more central role after the break and it soon paid dividends. Curtis Jones laid off a long pass to Jota who then picked out Nunez with a first-time pass and the finish was never in doubt. Jota made it 2-0 when he was picked out by Cody Gakpo and the Portuguese struck again with another cool finish after miss-kicking his initial shot after being set up by Premier League debutant Conor Bradley who got his chance in the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold. Joe Gomez provided the assist for Nunez's volleyed second goal in stoppage time, meaning Nunez is the first player to 10 goals and 10 assists for a Premier League club in all competitions this season.

Premier League: Liverpool thrash Bournemouth 4-0 to go five points clear

Luis Suarez made a subdued debut alongside former Barcelona team-mate Lionel Messi as Inter Miami kicked off their pre-season tour Friday with a 0-0 draw against El Salvador.

Suarez, who signed for Major League Soccer's Miami last month from Brazilian club Gremio, started in attack alongside Argentine superstar Messi at the Estadio Cuscatlan in San Salvador.

But the 36-year-old Uruguayan forward struggled to find his footing in a low-key start to his career with the Florida franchise.

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Suarez, Messi and fellow former Barcelona players Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba were all substituted at half-time with the match scoreless.

Messi came closest to opening the scoring on 36 minutes, latching on to a clever touch from Busquets and rifling a volley towards goal only to be denied by El Salvador goalkeeper Mario Martinez, who also stopped the Argentine's follow-up effort.

Martinez was alert four minutes later also when Alba burst into the box only to see his shot parried away.

El Salvador almost snatched victory in the 83rd minute, but Styven Vasquez's clever header cannoned off the bar.

Friday's match launched a hectic series of pre-season friendlies for Miami as they prepare to kick off the new MLS season against Real Salt Lake on February 21.

Miami play FC Dallas in a friendly on Monday, then head to Saudi Arabia for games against Al-Hilal on January 29.

They face Al-Nassr on February 1 – a game that should see Messi line up against old rival Cristiano Ronaldo once more.

Miami then travel to Asia to play friendlies against a Hong Kong select team on February 4 before taking on Japanese side Vissel Kobe three days later.&nbsp;

The Herons return to the United States for a final pre-season game against Argentine squad Newell's Old Boys on February 15.

Luis Suarez made a subdued debut alongside former Barcelona team-mate Lionel Messi as Inter Miami kicked off their pre-season tour Friday with a 0-0 draw against El Salvador.

Luis Suarez made a subdued debut alongside former Barcelona team-mate Lionel Messi as Inter Miami kicked off their pre-season tour Friday with a 0-0 draw against El Salvador. Suarez, who signed for Major League Soccer's Miami last month from Brazilian club Gremio, started in attack alongside Argentine superstar Messi at the Estadio Cuscatlan in San Salvador. But the 36-year-old Uruguayan forward struggled to find his footing in a low-key start to his career with the Florida franchise. Also Read: Premier League: Ivan Toney set for return after betting ban, to captain Brentford against Nottingham Forest Suarez, Messi and fellow former Barcelona players Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba were all substituted at half-time with the match scoreless. Messi came closest to opening the scoring on 36 minutes, latching on to a clever touch from Busquets and rifling a volley towards goal only to be denied by El Salvador goalkeeper Mario Martinez, who also stopped the Argentine's follow-up effort. Martinez was alert four minutes later also when Alba burst into the box only to see his shot parried away. El Salvador almost snatched victory in the 83rd minute, but Styven Vasquez's clever header cannoned off the bar. Friday's match launched a hectic series of pre-season friendlies for Miami as they prepare to kick off the new MLS season against Real Salt Lake on February 21. Miami play FC Dallas in a friendly on Monday, then head to Saudi Arabia for games against Al-Hilal on January 29. They face Al-Nassr on February 1 – a game that should see Messi line up against old rival Cristiano Ronaldo once more. Miami then travel to Asia to play friendlies against a Hong Kong select team on February 4 before taking on Japanese side Vissel Kobe three days later. The Herons return to the United States for a final pre-season game against Argentine squad Newell's Old Boys on February 15.

Luis Suarez makes subdued debut for Inter Miami in goalless draw with El Salvador

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called for an automatic forfeit of games for the teams whose fans indulge in racism acts during the play in various leagues such as Italian Serie A, English Premier League (EPL) and Spanish La Liga. He shared the thoughts after two separate incidents of racisms on Saturday (January 20) which included Serie A and English Football League (EFL) or the Championship.

“As well as the three-step process (match stopped, match re-stopped, match abandoned), we have to implement an automatic forfeit for the team whose fans have committed racism and caused the match to be abandoned, as well as worldwide stadium bans and criminal charges for racists,” said Infantino via a FIFA post on X.

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“FIFA and football shows full solidarity to victims of racism and any form of discrimination. Once and for all: No to racism! No to any form of discrimination! The events that took place in Udine and Sheffield on Saturday are totally abhorrent and completely unacceptable. The players affected by Saturday’s events have my undivided support. We need ALL the relevant stakeholders to take action, starting with education in schools so that future generations understand that this is not part of football or society,” he added.

In Serie A, AC Milan players walked off the pitch for a brief period of time after their French goalkeeper Mike Maignan alleged that Udinese fans made monkey noises in stands. In EFL, Coventry manager reported that mid-fielder Kasey Palmer was subjected to an racist gesture by a fan in dying moments of the game against Sheffield Wednesday.&nbsp;

For the games, Milan returned to play after five minutes and went on to win the match 3-2. Coventry, on the other hand, were already 2-1 ahead at the time of the incident and the score stayed the same.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called for an automatic forfeit of games for the teams whose fans indulge in racism acts during the play in various leagues such as Italian Serie A, English Premier League (EPL) and Spanish La Liga.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called for an automatic forfeit of games for the teams whose fans indulge in racism acts during the play in various leagues such as Italian Serie A, English Premier League (EPL) and Spanish La Liga. He shared the thoughts after two separate incidents of racisms on Saturday (January 20) which included Serie A and English Football League (EFL) or the Championship. “As well as the three-step process (match stopped, match re-stopped, match abandoned), we have to implement an automatic forfeit for the team whose fans have committed racism and caused the match to be abandoned, as well as worldwide stadium bans and criminal charges for racists,” said Infantino via a FIFA post on X. Also Read: Australian Open: Novak Djokovic equals Roger Federer's record with fourth round win “FIFA and football shows full solidarity to victims of racism and any form of discrimination. Once and for all: No to racism! No to any form of discrimination! The events that took place in Udine and Sheffield on Saturday are totally abhorrent and completely unacceptable. The players affected by Saturday’s events have my undivided support. We need ALL the relevant stakeholders to take action, starting with education in schools so that future generations understand that this is not part of football or society,” he added. In Serie A, AC Milan players walked off the pitch for a brief period of time after their French goalkeeper Mike Maignan alleged that Udinese fans made monkey noises in stands. In EFL, Coventry manager reported that mid-fielder Kasey Palmer was subjected to an racist gesture by a fan in dying moments of the game against Sheffield Wednesday. For the games, Milan returned to play after five minutes and went on to win the match 3-2. Coventry, on the other hand, were already 2-1 ahead at the time of the incident and the score stayed the same.

FIFA chief calls for automatic forfeit of games for teams whose fans get involved in racism during games

Italian side AS Roma have officially parted company with head coach Jose Mourinho after their latest defeat in the Serie A against AC Milan on Sunday (Jan 14). Mourinho, who took charge of the Italian side in 2021, had been on the receiving end of poor results in the league with his side languishing ninth in the table. The Portuguese gaffer leaves with two European finals with the side having won the Europa Conference League in 2022 and finishing runners-up in the Europa League in 2023.

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🚨 BREAKING: José Mourinho and AS Roma part ways with immediate effect. 
 
It’s over. 🟡🔴🇵🇹 <a href="https://t.co/EPnCQClL5R">pic.twitter.com/EPnCQClL5R</a>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1747173844148703278?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Roma, Mourinho part ways</h2>

“AS Roma can confirm that José Mourinho and his coaching staff will leave the club with immediate effect,” read a statement on the club’s official website.

“We would like to thank José on behalf of all of us at AS Roma for his passion and efforts since his arrival at the club,” said Dan and Ryan Friedkin.

“We will always have great memories of his tenure at Roma, but we believe that an immediate change is in the best interests of the club.

“We wish José and his assistants all the best in their future endeavours.”

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With pressure building on the 60-year-old, Sunday’s 3-1 defeat to AC Milan proved to be the final straw for Mourinho. The club was considering his future with them ninth in the standings and just eight wins throughout the campaign. Mourinho had gained a reputation of being a trophy-winning manager throughout his career, however, his last four spells have seen him on the receiving end of sacking.

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During his time in charge at the club, he led them to successive sixth place finishes and also led the club to two European finals. In his first full season, he led Roma to the Europa League trophy win against Feyenoord in 2022 while his side lost in a penalty shootout in the Europa League final last year. The latter defeat also meant that Roma were without Champions League football in all the three seasons during which Mourinho was in charge.

AS Roma has yet to make any announcement on Mourinho’s successor as the club will evaluate its options before coming to a concrete decision. They will next play Hellas Verona on Saturday (Jan 20) at home in the club’s first match in the post-Mourinho era.

Italian side AS Roma have officially parted company with head coach Jose Mourinho after their latest defeat in the Serie A against AC Milan on Sunday (Jan 14). Mourinho, who took charge of the Italian side in 2021, had been on the receiving end of poor results in the league with his side languishing ninth in the table.

Italian side AS Roma have officially parted company with head coach Jose Mourinho after their latest defeat in the Serie A against AC Milan on Sunday (Jan 14). Mourinho, who took charge of the Italian side in 2021, had been on the receiving end of poor results in the league with his side languishing ninth in the table. The Portuguese gaffer leaves with two European finals with the side having won the Europa Conference League in 2022 and finishing runners-up in the Europa League in 2023. 🚨 BREAKING: José Mourinho and AS Roma part ways with immediate effect. It’s over. 🟡🔴🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/EPnCQClL5R — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 16, 2024 × Roma, Mourinho part ways “AS Roma can confirm that José Mourinho and his coaching staff will leave the club with immediate effect,” read a statement on the club’s official website. “We would like to thank José on behalf of all of us at AS Roma for his passion and efforts since his arrival at the club,” said Dan and Ryan Friedkin. “We will always have great memories of his tenure at Roma, but we believe that an immediate change is in the best interests of the club. “We wish José and his assistants all the best in their future endeavours.” × With pressure building on the 60-year-old, Sunday’s 3-1 defeat to AC Milan proved to be the final straw for Mourinho. The club was considering his future with them ninth in the standings and just eight wins throughout the campaign. Mourinho had gained a reputation of being a trophy-winning manager throughout his career, however, his last four spells have seen him on the receiving end of sacking. ALSO READ | Unbothered by short-ball stuff and rank-turners, Shreyas Iyer prepares for England Tests During his time in charge at the club, he led them to successive sixth place finishes and also led the club to two European finals. In his first full season, he led Roma to the Europa League trophy win against Feyenoord in 2022 while his side lost in a penalty shootout in the Europa League final last year. The latter defeat also meant that Roma were without Champions League football in all the three seasons during which Mourinho was in charge. AS Roma has yet to make any announcement on Mourinho’s successor as the club will evaluate its options before coming to a concrete decision. They will next play Hellas Verona on Saturday (Jan 20) at home in the club’s first match in the post-Mourinho era.

Serie A: Roma sack Jose Mourinho after latest defeat to AC Milan; leaves with ECL title win in 2022

Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag gave a thumbs up to the Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford partnership after the duo showed promising signs of becoming a potent pair during the side's 2-2 draw versus Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday (Jan 14) at home. United scored early in the contest but the visitors managed to comeback every time when they were behind as the high-voltage affair ended in a 2-2 stalemate.&nbsp;

After the clash, Ten Hag spoke at length on Hojlund-Rashford, who were involved in the build-up to each other's goals, while talking to the reporters. He said, "I hope they keep going with this progress. You see they are coming up with routines – that is what you need. You need it everywhere but especially in the front line, where there are tight areas and quick decisions have to be made. In a split second you need the right decisions, so you need that intuition.

"When your front players are not scoring, it goes through the whole team. It makes everyone insecure, starting with the front players, because they are of course eager when they’re not scoring and play with less confidence," the United boss further opined.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olivier-giroud-magic-helps-ruthless-ac-milan-ease-past-as-roma-with-3-1-win-679998">Olivier Giroud magic helps ruthless AC Milan ease past AS Roma with 3-1 win</a>

Notably, the 20-year-old Hojlund has scored only two league goals this season. On the other hand,&nbsp;Rashford has found the back of the net on four occasions, however,&nbsp;the pair appear to be forming&nbsp;an understanding slowly and steadily which can serve the Red Devils fruitfully in coming times.&nbsp;

After the 2-2 draw versus Tottenham, United remain below the top four and are placed seventh. Meanwhile, the Spurs are at the fifth position with 12 wins in 21 games.&nbsp;

United will&nbsp;next be in action on Jan&nbsp;28 in an FA Cup fourth-round tie against one of Newport County or Eastleigh.

Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag gave a thumbs up to the Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford partnership after the duo showed promising signs of becoming a potent pair during the side's 2-2 draw versus Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday (Jan 14) at home.

Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag gave a thumbs up to the Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford partnership after the duo showed promising signs of becoming a potent pair during the side's 2-2 draw versus Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday (Jan 14) at home. United scored early in the contest but the visitors managed to comeback every time when they were behind as the high-voltage affair ended in a 2-2 stalemate. After the clash, Ten Hag spoke at length on Hojlund-Rashford, who were involved in the build-up to each other's goals, while talking to the reporters. He said, "I hope they keep going with this progress. You see they are coming up with routines – that is what you need. You need it everywhere but especially in the front line, where there are tight areas and quick decisions have to be made. In a split second you need the right decisions, so you need that intuition. "When your front players are not scoring, it goes through the whole team. It makes everyone insecure, starting with the front players, because they are of course eager when they’re not scoring and play with less confidence," the United boss further opined. Also read: Olivier Giroud magic helps ruthless AC Milan ease past AS Roma with 3-1 win Notably, the 20-year-old Hojlund has scored only two league goals this season. On the other hand, Rashford has found the back of the net on four occasions, however, the pair appear to be forming an understanding slowly and steadily which can serve the Red Devils fruitfully in coming times. After the 2-2 draw versus Tottenham, United remain below the top four and are placed seventh. Meanwhile, the Spurs are at the fifth position with 12 wins in 21 games. United will next be in action on Jan 28 in an FA Cup fourth-round tie against one of Newport County or Eastleigh.

Man United boss Erik Ten Hag backs Hojlund-Rashford partnership after draw vs Tottenham Hotspur

AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud produced a sparkling performance as they secured a commanding 3-1 Serie A victory at home to AS Roma on Sunday, thanks in large part to the Frenchman who scored one goal and created another. The 37-year-old Giroud was in the perfect position to head in their second goal before his brilliant back-heel flick set up Theo Hernandez for the third.

Milan are third in the standings with 42 points, nine behind leaders Inter Milan, and four behind second-placed Juventus, who host Sassuolo on Tuesday. Roma are ninth with 29 points. Milan have an eight-point lead over Fiorentina in fourth, after Vincenzo Italiano's side secured a 2-2 draw at home against Udinese earlier on Sunday thanks to a late penalty from M’Bala Nzola.

"Clearly, at 2-1 anything can happen. We had wasted chances to get the third goal and were starting to feel tired, but we got there eventually," Milan manager Stefano Pioli told DAZN. Pioli was asked if Milan were still in the title race. "No, take us out of that. We have to focus on ourselves and the objective is very clear, we did fairly well in the first half of the season and want to do better in the second half," he replied. "I don’t think 39 points was too bad a tally at the midway stage, but we’ve got to step on the gas now."

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Milan broke the deadlock after 11 minutes when Yacine Adli received the ball just outside the box, sidestepped his marker, and placed it into the bottom corner. Giroud doubled the lead for the hosts after 56 minutes when a cross into the box found Simon Kjaer, who nodded the ball across for the Frenchman to head it in from point-blank range.

Roma struggled in the first half but improved after the break and Leandro Paredes converted a 69th-minute penalty following Davide Calabria's trip on Lorenzo Pellegrini. Yet the hosts secured their third goal when Giroud's beautiful flick set up Hernandez inside the box and his powerful strike rattled the underside of the crossbar on its way into the net.

AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud produced a sparkling performance as they secured a commanding 3-1 Serie A victory at home to AS Roma on Sunday, thanks in large part to the Frenchman who scored one goal and created another.

AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud produced a sparkling performance as they secured a commanding 3-1 Serie A victory at home to AS Roma on Sunday, thanks in large part to the Frenchman who scored one goal and created another. The 37-year-old Giroud was in the perfect position to head in their second goal before his brilliant back-heel flick set up Theo Hernandez for the third. Milan are third in the standings with 42 points, nine behind leaders Inter Milan, and four behind second-placed Juventus, who host Sassuolo on Tuesday. Roma are ninth with 29 points. Milan have an eight-point lead over Fiorentina in fourth, after Vincenzo Italiano's side secured a 2-2 draw at home against Udinese earlier on Sunday thanks to a late penalty from M’Bala Nzola. "Clearly, at 2-1 anything can happen. We had wasted chances to get the third goal and were starting to feel tired, but we got there eventually," Milan manager Stefano Pioli told DAZN. Pioli was asked if Milan were still in the title race. "No, take us out of that. We have to focus on ourselves and the objective is very clear, we did fairly well in the first half of the season and want to do better in the second half," he replied. "I don’t think 39 points was too bad a tally at the midway stage, but we’ve got to step on the gas now." Also read: Luis Suarez joins Lionel Messi at Inter Miami as ex-Barca mainstays eye maiden MLS trophy Milan broke the deadlock after 11 minutes when Yacine Adli received the ball just outside the box, sidestepped his marker, and placed it into the bottom corner. Giroud doubled the lead for the hosts after 56 minutes when a cross into the box found Simon Kjaer, who nodded the ball across for the Frenchman to head it in from point-blank range. Roma struggled in the first half but improved after the break and Leandro Paredes converted a 69th-minute penalty following Davide Calabria's trip on Lorenzo Pellegrini. Yet the hosts secured their third goal when Giroud's beautiful flick set up Hernandez inside the box and his powerful strike rattled the underside of the crossbar on its way into the net.

Olivier Giroud magic helps ruthless AC Milan ease past AS Roma with 3-1 win

A Turkish court on Monday released pending trial an Israeli footballer who was detained after displaying a message referring to the Israel-Hamas war during a first division match.

Sagiv Jehezkel, 28, held up a bandage on his wrist reading "100 days. 07/10" next to a Star of David when he celebrated scoring a goal for Antalyaspor against Trabzonspor on Sunday.

Turkish prosecutors launched a criminal investigation into Jehezkel's for alleged "incitement to hate", and his club tore up the forward's contract for "exhibiting behaviour that goes against our country's sensitivities".

Israel furiously condemned Jehezkel's detention, sending relations between the two regional powers to a new low.

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"Turkey has become a dark dictatorship, working against humane values and sports values," Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said. "I call on the international community and the international sports organisations to act against Turkey and against its political use of violence and threats against athletes."

An Israeli foreign ministry spokesman said Jehezkel would return to Israel later on Monday. Turkey's NTV television said Israel had sent a private plan to pick up the player and his family overnight.

The message on Jehezkel's bandage referred to the 100 days since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, which was marked on Sunday.

In testimony to the police, Jehezkel said he wanted to call attention to the hostages taken by Hamas and in no way intended to support the war.

"I am not a pro-war person," the private DHA news agency reported him as saying. "After all, there are also Israeli soldiers taken prisoner in Gaza. I am someone who believes that this 100-day period should end now. I want the war to end. That's why I showed the sign," he reportedly told the police.

On October 7, Hamas militants launched an attack in Israel, killing about 1,140 people and abducting around 250 others, 132 of whom remain in Gaza, according to Israeli officials.

In retaliation, Israel vowed to destroy Hamas and launched a relentless military assault on Gaza that has killed at least 23,968 people in the Palestinian territory, most of them women and children, according to Gaza's health ministry.

A Turkish court on Monday released pending trial an Israeli footballer who was detained after displaying a message referring to the Israel-Hamas war during a first division match.

A Turkish court on Monday released pending trial an Israeli footballer who was detained after displaying a message referring to the Israel-Hamas war during a first division match. Sagiv Jehezkel, 28, held up a bandage on his wrist reading "100 days. 07/10" next to a Star of David when he celebrated scoring a goal for Antalyaspor against Trabzonspor on Sunday. Turkish prosecutors launched a criminal investigation into Jehezkel's for alleged "incitement to hate", and his club tore up the forward's contract for "exhibiting behaviour that goes against our country's sensitivities". Israel furiously condemned Jehezkel's detention, sending relations between the two regional powers to a new low. ALSO READ: Tennis: Experienced campaigners Andy Murray, Stan Wawrinka make early Australian Open exits "Turkey has become a dark dictatorship, working against humane values and sports values," Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said. "I call on the international community and the international sports organisations to act against Turkey and against its political use of violence and threats against athletes." An Israeli foreign ministry spokesman said Jehezkel would return to Israel later on Monday. Turkey's NTV television said Israel had sent a private plan to pick up the player and his family overnight. The message on Jehezkel's bandage referred to the 100 days since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, which was marked on Sunday. In testimony to the police, Jehezkel said he wanted to call attention to the hostages taken by Hamas and in no way intended to support the war. "I am not a pro-war person," the private DHA news agency reported him as saying. "After all, there are also Israeli soldiers taken prisoner in Gaza. I am someone who believes that this 100-day period should end now. I want the war to end. That's why I showed the sign," he reportedly told the police. On October 7, Hamas militants launched an attack in Israel, killing about 1,140 people and abducting around 250 others, 132 of whom remain in Gaza, according to Israeli officials. In retaliation, Israel vowed to destroy Hamas and launched a relentless military assault on Gaza that has killed at least 23,968 people in the Palestinian territory, most of them women and children, according to Gaza's health ministry.

Turkey court releases Israeli footballer jailed over Gaza war sign

Former England football player and BBC presenter Gary Lineker has again found himself in midst of a controversy after resharing a post on his social media handle. The post, reposted by Linekar, calls for exclusion of Israel from international football for its ongoing war in Gaza. The BBC presenter has been criticised by many Jewish members of British parliament and community people for this activity.

The post reshared by The Match of the Day presenter was originally posted by The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic &amp; Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI - BDS movement) on X which read: "The Palestinian Football Association calls on @iocmedia, @FIFAcom and all regional and int'l sports bodies to take an urgent stance on Israel’s grave violations of human rights and subject it to legal accountability measures."

Have a look at the post below:

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The Palestinian Football Association calls on <a href="https://twitter.com/iocmedia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iocmedia</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAcom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FIFAcom</a> and all regional and int'l sports bodies to take an urgent stance on Israel’s grave violations of human rights and subject it to legal accountability measures. <a href="https://t.co/WLgKm4SIKY">https://t.co/WLgKm4SIKY</a> <a href="https://t.co/jpg4JA2rNT">pic.twitter.com/jpg4JA2rNT</a>
— PACBI - BDS movement (@PACBI) <a href="https://twitter.com/PACBI/status/1746201740507058284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In response, Campaign Against Antisemitism accused the 63-year-old former footballer of failing to speak out against racism faced by Jews. “Gary Lineker has a lot to say about a lot of things, but antisemitism does not appear to be one of them,” told a spokesman for the group The Daily Telegraph.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/vinicius-jr-scores-hat-trick-as-real-madrid-beat-barcelona-to-win-13th-spanish-super-cup-title-680091">Vinicius Jr. scores hat-trick as Real Madrid beat Barcelona to win 13th Spanish Super Cup title</a>

“At a time of record levels of racism against Jews, not a peep. But he has found the time to amplify a call to suspend the world’s only Jewish state from international sports. His priorities are clear,” added the spokesperson.

Criticising Lineker, Jewish Tory MP Andrew Percy told The Telegraph: "Gary Lineker is an ill-informed, ignorant commentator on the Middle East. The BDS movement [to boycott Israel] is a racist, anti-Semitic campaign and nobody who receives taxpayers' money working in the BBC should be endorsing a campaign that is widely understood to promote Jew hate."

Notably, Israel is involved in a full-fledged war in Gaza after the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Jewish state on October 7 last year.&nbsp;

Former England football player and BBC presenter Gary Lineker has again found himself in midst of a controversy after resharing a post on his social media handle.

Former England football player and BBC presenter Gary Lineker has again found himself in midst of a controversy after resharing a post on his social media handle. The post, reposted by Linekar, calls for exclusion of Israel from international football for its ongoing war in Gaza. The BBC presenter has been criticised by many Jewish members of British parliament and community people for this activity. The post reshared by The Match of the Day presenter was originally posted by The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic & Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI - BDS movement) on X which read: "The Palestinian Football Association calls on @iocmedia, @FIFAcom and all regional and int'l sports bodies to take an urgent stance on Israel’s grave violations of human rights and subject it to legal accountability measures." Have a look at the post below: The Palestinian Football Association calls on @iocmedia, @FIFAcom and all regional and int'l sports bodies to take an urgent stance on Israel’s grave violations of human rights and subject it to legal accountability measures. https://t.co/WLgKm4SIKY pic.twitter.com/jpg4JA2rNT — PACBI - BDS movement (@PACBI) January 13, 2024 × In response, Campaign Against Antisemitism accused the 63-year-old former footballer of failing to speak out against racism faced by Jews. “Gary Lineker has a lot to say about a lot of things, but antisemitism does not appear to be one of them,” told a spokesman for the group The Daily Telegraph. Also Read: Vinicius Jr. scores hat-trick as Real Madrid beat Barcelona to win 13th Spanish Super Cup title “At a time of record levels of racism against Jews, not a peep. But he has found the time to amplify a call to suspend the world’s only Jewish state from international sports. His priorities are clear,” added the spokesperson. Criticising Lineker, Jewish Tory MP Andrew Percy told The Telegraph: "Gary Lineker is an ill-informed, ignorant commentator on the Middle East. The BDS movement [to boycott Israel] is a racist, anti-Semitic campaign and nobody who receives taxpayers' money working in the BBC should be endorsing a campaign that is widely understood to promote Jew hate." Notably, Israel is involved in a full-fledged war in Gaza after the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Jewish state on October 7 last year.

BBC’s Gary Lineker lands in trouble after resharing X post on Israel exclusion from international football

Exequiel Palacios scored in the fourth minute of injury time to earn Bayer Leverkusen a 1-0 win at Augsburg, keeping them four points clear of chasers Bayern Munich.

Bayern's 3-0 home win over Hoffenheim on Friday turned up the heat on leaders Leverkusen.&nbsp;

The visitors looked set to drop points for just the fourth time this season, but the Argentinian world champion volleyed the ball in with almost the last kick of the game from an Alex Grimaldo cross.

The goal may prove crucial in the title race as Leverkusen restored their four-point lead atop the table, with second-placed Bayern having a game in hand.

On the first weekend of fixtures since Franz Beckenbauer died aged 78, each match began after a moment of silence and a tribute to the German football legend.&nbsp;

Leverkusen looked slick early, carving out several chances as they dominated possession, but lacked the final killer blow without injured striker Victor Boniface.&nbsp;

Augsburg looked to have taken the lead through Phillip Tietz with 20 minutes remaining, but the striker's goal was flagged for offside.&nbsp;

Grimaldo found Palacios in the final minute of injury time, the midfielder slamming a perfect shot into the goal before being embraced by his elated teammates.&nbsp;

Elsewhere, Eintracht Frankfurt won 1-0 at RB Leipzig to leapfrog Borussia Dortmund into fifth place.&nbsp;

Frankfurt took the lead just seven minutes in, Ansgar Knauff slamming a brilliant curved pass from Niels Nkounkou into the net.&nbsp;

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Leipzig pushed for an equaliser but Frankfurt held on, consigning the German Cup holders to their first home loss of the season.

Union Berlin held Freiburg to a scoreless draw away, continuing their solid if unspectacular form under new manager Nenad Bjelica.&nbsp;

Union had lost nine league games in a row prior to the Croat's arrival, but have now lost just one in four to stay one spot clear of the relegation spots.

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Cologne missed a chance to move out of the automatic relegation places, conceding a second-half goal to draw 1-1 with promoted Heidenheim.

Strugglers Mainz fought from a goal down to draw 1-1 at home with Wolfsburg, picking up a valuable point to keep them above the relegation spots.&nbsp;

Later on Saturday, Borussia Dortmund can take advantage of Leipzig's loss by moving to within three points of fourth place with a win at last-placed Darmstadt. &nbsp;

England winger Jadon Sancho in line to play for the visitors for the first time since 2021, having returned this week on a six-month loan from Manchester United.&nbsp;

Exequiel Palacios scored in the fourth minute of injury time to earn Bayer Leverkusen a 1-0 win at Augsburg, keeping them four points clear of chasers Bayern Munich.

Exequiel Palacios scored in the fourth minute of injury time to earn Bayer Leverkusen a 1-0 win at Augsburg, keeping them four points clear of chasers Bayern Munich. Bayern's 3-0 home win over Hoffenheim on Friday turned up the heat on leaders Leverkusen. The visitors looked set to drop points for just the fourth time this season, but the Argentinian world champion volleyed the ball in with almost the last kick of the game from an Alex Grimaldo cross. The goal may prove crucial in the title race as Leverkusen restored their four-point lead atop the table, with second-placed Bayern having a game in hand. On the first weekend of fixtures since Franz Beckenbauer died aged 78, each match began after a moment of silence and a tribute to the German football legend. Leverkusen looked slick early, carving out several chances as they dominated possession, but lacked the final killer blow without injured striker Victor Boniface. Augsburg looked to have taken the lead through Phillip Tietz with 20 minutes remaining, but the striker's goal was flagged for offside. Grimaldo found Palacios in the final minute of injury time, the midfielder slamming a perfect shot into the goal before being embraced by his elated teammates. Elsewhere, Eintracht Frankfurt won 1-0 at RB Leipzig to leapfrog Borussia Dortmund into fifth place. Frankfurt took the lead just seven minutes in, Ansgar Knauff slamming a brilliant curved pass from Niels Nkounkou into the net. Leipzig pushed for an equaliser but Frankfurt held on, consigning the German Cup holders to their first home loss of the season. Union Berlin held Freiburg to a scoreless draw away, continuing their solid if unspectacular form under new manager Nenad Bjelica. Union had lost nine league games in a row prior to the Croat's arrival, but have now lost just one in four to stay one spot clear of the relegation spots. ALSO READ | Former SA all-rounder, once most expensive IPL buy, opines on Cummins & Starc's big money in 2023 auction Cologne missed a chance to move out of the automatic relegation places, conceding a second-half goal to draw 1-1 with promoted Heidenheim. Strugglers Mainz fought from a goal down to draw 1-1 at home with Wolfsburg, picking up a valuable point to keep them above the relegation spots. Later on Saturday, Borussia Dortmund can take advantage of Leipzig's loss by moving to within three points of fourth place with a win at last-placed Darmstadt. England winger Jadon Sancho in line to play for the visitors for the first time since 2021, having returned this week on a six-month loan from Manchester United.

Football: Exequiel Palacios scores late winner for Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen

Inter Milan moved five points clear at the top of Serie A on Saturday after cruising to a 5-1 win at Monza, while last-gasp drama gave Napoli a 2-1 win over Salernitana.

Doubles from Hakan Calhanoglu and Lautaro Martinez and a late strike from Marcus Thuram extended Inter's advantage on Juventus, who host Sassuolo on Tuesday night.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-exequiel-palacios-scores-late-winner-for-bundesliga-leaders-bayer-leverkusen-679733">Exequiel Palacios scores late winner for Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen</a>

Inter now head to the revamped, four-team Italian Super Cup in Riyadh, where they begin a tough run of fixtures against Lazio on Thursday.

A trip to high-flying Fiorentina will follow at the end of the month before a showdown with Juve at the San Siro, by which time their closest rivals could be top of the pile due to having a game in hand.

Inter don't play what would have been next weekend's home clash with Atalanta until the end of February due to their Super Cup commitments.

However if they continue to play as they did in a blistering display on Saturday they should have little to fear from any opposition.

Calhanoglu put Inter ahead from the penalty spot in the 12th minute after Roberto Gagliardini handled Martinez's header, and the away side were two in front moments later.

A great team move swept Inter from one end of the pitch to the other and ended with Martinez prodding home from close range.

Monza's Matteo Pessina then had a header ruled out for the tightest of offsides in the 29th minute, and Calhanoglu made sure of the points on the hour mark when he stroked home Thuram's neat lay-off.

Pessina did get his goal from the spot nine minutes later but by then the damage was done.

With six minutes remaining Martinez scored from the spot to take his league tally to 18 for the season and four minutes later Thuram capped a perfect evening with a fine individual strike.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Napoli relief -</h2>

&nbsp;

Amir Rrahmani's stoppage-time strike earned Napoli a dramatic win over regional rivals Salernitana which ended the ailing champions' winless run at four matches.

Kosovo captain Rrahmani capitalised on dreadful defending at a free-kick to poke home the winner and turn jeers into cheers at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Walter Mazzarri's side moved up to sixth in Italy's top flight after the win, 20 points behind Inter.

The hosts came back from going behind in the 29th minute to a stunning Antonio Candreva strike, with Matteo Politano pulling Napoli level from the penalty spot at the end of the first half before Rrahmani brought the house down with his late winner.

"It's not an easy situation, because going from being Italian champions to having the kind of results we're having this season is very hard," said Rrahmani to DAZN.

"I'm happy with the goal. I hope I can be as lucky again in the future."

Napoli are two points behind fourth-placed Fiorentina, who sit in the final Champions League spot and host Udinese on Sunday.

"It was a real team win, a hallmark of this team last season but something that we haven't seen too much of this year," said Mazzarri.

Saturday's win brought euphoria to home fans who have watched a side which cruised to last season's historic Scudetto put up a weak title defence.

But the three points came with a large slice of good fortune as Politano's leveller came after a soft foul from Federico Fazio on Giovanni Simeone, given after a VAR check.

Supporters were resigned to a draw when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who has struggled this term, shot a great chance straight at Salernitana goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa with the clock ticking down.

Moments later Ochoa helped hand Napoli the win when he clattered into Fazio while trying to collect Giacomo Raspadori's free-kick, the ball then squirmed to Rrahmani who rammed home the decisive goal.

Inter Milan moved five points clear at the top of Serie A on Saturday after cruising to a 5-1 win at Monza, while last-gasp drama gave Napoli a 2-1 win over Salernitana.

Inter Milan moved five points clear at the top of Serie A on Saturday after cruising to a 5-1 win at Monza, while last-gasp drama gave Napoli a 2-1 win over Salernitana. Doubles from Hakan Calhanoglu and Lautaro Martinez and a late strike from Marcus Thuram extended Inter's advantage on Juventus, who host Sassuolo on Tuesday night. Also Read: Exequiel Palacios scores late winner for Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen Inter now head to the revamped, four-team Italian Super Cup in Riyadh, where they begin a tough run of fixtures against Lazio on Thursday. A trip to high-flying Fiorentina will follow at the end of the month before a showdown with Juve at the San Siro, by which time their closest rivals could be top of the pile due to having a game in hand. Inter don't play what would have been next weekend's home clash with Atalanta until the end of February due to their Super Cup commitments. However if they continue to play as they did in a blistering display on Saturday they should have little to fear from any opposition. Calhanoglu put Inter ahead from the penalty spot in the 12th minute after Roberto Gagliardini handled Martinez's header, and the away side were two in front moments later. A great team move swept Inter from one end of the pitch to the other and ended with Martinez prodding home from close range. Monza's Matteo Pessina then had a header ruled out for the tightest of offsides in the 29th minute, and Calhanoglu made sure of the points on the hour mark when he stroked home Thuram's neat lay-off. Pessina did get his goal from the spot nine minutes later but by then the damage was done. With six minutes remaining Martinez scored from the spot to take his league tally to 18 for the season and four minutes later Thuram capped a perfect evening with a fine individual strike. - Napoli relief - Amir Rrahmani's stoppage-time strike earned Napoli a dramatic win over regional rivals Salernitana which ended the ailing champions' winless run at four matches. Kosovo captain Rrahmani capitalised on dreadful defending at a free-kick to poke home the winner and turn jeers into cheers at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Walter Mazzarri's side moved up to sixth in Italy's top flight after the win, 20 points behind Inter. The hosts came back from going behind in the 29th minute to a stunning Antonio Candreva strike, with Matteo Politano pulling Napoli level from the penalty spot at the end of the first half before Rrahmani brought the house down with his late winner. "It's not an easy situation, because going from being Italian champions to having the kind of results we're having this season is very hard," said Rrahmani to DAZN. "I'm happy with the goal. I hope I can be as lucky again in the future." Napoli are two points behind fourth-placed Fiorentina, who sit in the final Champions League spot and host Udinese on Sunday. "It was a real team win, a hallmark of this team last season but something that we haven't seen too much of this year," said Mazzarri. Saturday's win brought euphoria to home fans who have watched a side which cruised to last season's historic Scudetto put up a weak title defence. But the three points came with a large slice of good fortune as Politano's leveller came after a soft foul from Federico Fazio on Giovanni Simeone, given after a VAR check. Supporters were resigned to a draw when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who has struggled this term, shot a great chance straight at Salernitana goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa with the clock ticking down. Moments later Ochoa helped hand Napoli the win when he clattered into Fazio while trying to collect Giacomo Raspadori's free-kick, the ball then squirmed to Rrahmani who rammed home the decisive goal.

Serie A: Inter Milan go five points clear at the top with easy win over Monza

In a&nbsp;mid-air flight catastrophe, the Gambian football team players, while travelling to Ivory Coast on Wednesday (Jan 10), reported an abrupt shortage of oxygen in the aircraft following which the plane was forced to make an emergency landing minutes after it took off from the airfield in Banjul.

Saidy Janko, the former Manchester United, Celtic and Nottingham Forest player, shared the video of the harrowing incident on his official social media handle where passengers could be seen profusely sweating while gasping for air.

Dubbing the mishap as "unacceptable", the former Manchester United player explained how many passengers passed out from a lack of oxygen and experienced headaches.

“After travelling 32 hours in total from Saudi Arabia(Training Camp) to The Gambia with long layovers in Istanbul and Casablanca, we were supposed to fly from Gambia to Ivory Coast for the AFCON today,” Janko wrote.

“As soon as we entered the small plane that was hired to fly us, we noticed the immense heat that left us dripping in sweat. It was assured to us by the Crew that the air condition would start once we are in the sky,” he continued.

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C17yvfRNSXq/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Saidy Janko (@saidyjanko22)</a>
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&nbsp;

<h2>'People started falling deeply asleep minutes after entering aircraft'</h2>

He further explained how the lack of oxygen left some passengers aboard the plane with severe headaches and extreme dizziness.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/british-airways-pilot-kidnapped-tortured-during-stopover-leaving-flight-hanging-679006">British Airways pilot kidnapped, tortured during stopover, leaving flight hanging</a>

“The inhumane heat mixed with the occurring lack of oxygen left many people with strong headaches and extreme dizziness. Furthermore, people started falling deeply asleep minutes after entering the aircraft/take off,” he explained.

“Whilst in the Air, the situation got worse, leaving the pilot with no other option, than initiating an emergency landing back in Banjul airport nine minutes after takeoff. Which happened successfully.”

“If it wasn’t for this, the consequences could have been a lot worse !!!.. knowing what could have happened, if we would have been exposed to the situation for any longer - in an airplane, running out of oxygen,” he added.

Watch |&nbsp;United Airlines finds loose bolts on multiple Boeing 737 Max 9 planes

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&nbsp;

“We are grateful that everyone is feeling well but this is a situation that has to be addressed going into the AFCON, as being only one of our obstacles on international duty. This is unacceptable and such has to cease with immediate effect,” he concluded.

The athlete then further emphasised how crucial airplane safety is.

“We are grateful that everyone is feeling well but this is a situation that has to be addressed going into the AFCON, as being only one of our obstacles on international duty. This is unacceptable and such has to cease with immediate effect,” he concluded.

While speaking to Nieuwsblad, Gambia national team coach Tom Saintfiet said, "We could all have been dead. We all fell asleep quickly. Me, too. I had short dreams about how my life was done. Really and truly. After nine minutes the pilot decided to return because there was no oxygen supply. Some players did not wake up [until] immediately after landing. We almost got carbon monoxide poisoning. Another half hour of flying and we would all have been dead."

The Gambian Football Federation also released a statement saying, "The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) regrets to inform the general public that the Chartered Flight carrying the Scorpions to the African Cup of Nations has returned to Banjul due to technical problems. The flight was nine minutes airborne when the crew realised and immediately requested to return to Banjul."

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&nbsp;

The statement further said that the airline was probing&nbsp;what led to the lack of oxygen in the aircraft.

"Upon landing, preliminary investigations indicated that there was loss of cabin pressure and oxygen. However, the technical team of the operating company of the flight, Air Cote d’Ivoire is further assessing the situation to establish what caused the lack of oxygen and cabin pressure," it added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a mid-air flight catastrophe, the Gambian football team players, while travelling to Ivory Coast on Wednesday (Jan 10), reported an abrupt shortage of oxygen in the aircraft following which the plane was forced to make an emergency landing minutes after it took off from the airfield in Banjul.

In a mid-air flight catastrophe, the Gambian football team players, while travelling to Ivory Coast on Wednesday (Jan 10), reported an abrupt shortage of oxygen in the aircraft following which the plane was forced to make an emergency landing minutes after it took off from the airfield in Banjul. Saidy Janko, the former Manchester United, Celtic and Nottingham Forest player, shared the video of the harrowing incident on his official social media handle where passengers could be seen profusely sweating while gasping for air. Dubbing the mishap as "unacceptable", the former Manchester United player explained how many passengers passed out from a lack of oxygen and experienced headaches. “After travelling 32 hours in total from Saudi Arabia(Training Camp) to The Gambia with long layovers in Istanbul and Casablanca, we were supposed to fly from Gambia to Ivory Coast for the AFCON today,” Janko wrote. “As soon as we entered the small plane that was hired to fly us, we noticed the immense heat that left us dripping in sweat. It was assured to us by the Crew that the air condition would start once we are in the sky,” he continued. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Saidy Janko (@saidyjanko22) × 'People started falling deeply asleep minutes after entering aircraft' He further explained how the lack of oxygen left some passengers aboard the plane with severe headaches and extreme dizziness. Also read: British Airways pilot kidnapped, tortured during stopover, leaving flight hanging “The inhumane heat mixed with the occurring lack of oxygen left many people with strong headaches and extreme dizziness. Furthermore, people started falling deeply asleep minutes after entering the aircraft/take off,” he explained. “Whilst in the Air, the situation got worse, leaving the pilot with no other option, than initiating an emergency landing back in Banjul airport nine minutes after takeoff. Which happened successfully.” “If it wasn’t for this, the consequences could have been a lot worse !!!.. knowing what could have happened, if we would have been exposed to the situation for any longer - in an airplane, running out of oxygen,” he added. Watch | United Airlines finds loose bolts on multiple Boeing 737 Max 9 planes × “We are grateful that everyone is feeling well but this is a situation that has to be addressed going into the AFCON, as being only one of our obstacles on international duty. This is unacceptable and such has to cease with immediate effect,” he concluded. The athlete then further emphasised how crucial airplane safety is. “We are grateful that everyone is feeling well but this is a situation that has to be addressed going into the AFCON, as being only one of our obstacles on international duty. This is unacceptable and such has to cease with immediate effect,” he concluded. While speaking to Nieuwsblad, Gambia national team coach Tom Saintfiet said, "We could all have been dead. We all fell asleep quickly. Me, too. I had short dreams about how my life was done. Really and truly. After nine minutes the pilot decided to return because there was no oxygen supply. Some players did not wake up [until] immediately after landing. We almost got carbon monoxide poisoning. Another half hour of flying and we would all have been dead." The Gambian Football Federation also released a statement saying, "The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) regrets to inform the general public that the Chartered Flight carrying the Scorpions to the African Cup of Nations has returned to Banjul due to technical problems. The flight was nine minutes airborne when the crew realised and immediately requested to return to Banjul." × The statement further said that the airline was probing what led to the lack of oxygen in the aircraft. "Upon landing, preliminary investigations indicated that there was loss of cabin pressure and oxygen. However, the technical team of the operating company of the flight, Air Cote d’Ivoire is further assessing the situation to establish what caused the lack of oxygen and cabin pressure," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Gambia's football team makes emergency landing after plane loses oxygen

Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal scored second-half goals to give Barcelona an 2-0 win over Osasuna in a dour Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Thursday. Barca set up a dream showpiece clash on Sunday with Real Madrid, who had beaten city rivals Atletico Madrid in a breathtaking 5-3 derby earlier in the week. It will be a re-match from last year's final, which Barca won 3-1.

Barcelona dominated possession in a dismal first half but were bereft of ideas and barely threatened their opponents. Lewandowski could have done better in a couple of half-chances that were denied by a confident Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera, but it was not until the 59th minute that Barca came to life and managed to break the deadlock.

Ilkay Gundogan picked out Lewandowski with a through-ball and the striker scored from close-range. However, Osasuna players were left fuming and complained to the referee that Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen had fouled Jose Arnaiz before starting the counter-attack, but a VAR check confirmed the goal.

"We felt we were wronged, because the refereeing criteria was very different during the whole match. The foul was clear," Osasuna manager Jagoba Arrasate told Movistar Plus. "Watching live it looked like a foul, to be honest, but the replay shows that there was nothing..." Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez said. "Sometimes the referee works to our advantage, sometimes he works against us... However, I don't think he was decisive in today's outcome."

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After Lewandowski's goal, Xavi brought Joao Felix off the bench and the Portuguese forward added impetus Barca seemed to lack up-front, forcing goalkeeper Herrera to make a couple of fine saves to keep Osasuna alive.

Joao Felix created a quick counter and provided the assist to Yamal who blasted low in to the net to secure the win and set-up an El Clasico in the final. "You don't play finals, you win them. We want to compete against an opponent who I saw very well in the other semi-final," Xavi said. "However, there are no favourites, it's an El Clasico. Hopefully the final will go our way like last year. We are the reigning champions and at least we will enjoy it."

Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal scored second-half goals to give Barcelona an 2-0 win over Osasuna in a dour Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Thursday.

Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal scored second-half goals to give Barcelona an 2-0 win over Osasuna in a dour Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Thursday. Barca set up a dream showpiece clash on Sunday with Real Madrid, who had beaten city rivals Atletico Madrid in a breathtaking 5-3 derby earlier in the week. It will be a re-match from last year's final, which Barca won 3-1. Barcelona dominated possession in a dismal first half but were bereft of ideas and barely threatened their opponents. Lewandowski could have done better in a couple of half-chances that were denied by a confident Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera, but it was not until the 59th minute that Barca came to life and managed to break the deadlock. Ilkay Gundogan picked out Lewandowski with a through-ball and the striker scored from close-range. However, Osasuna players were left fuming and complained to the referee that Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen had fouled Jose Arnaiz before starting the counter-attack, but a VAR check confirmed the goal. "We felt we were wronged, because the refereeing criteria was very different during the whole match. The foul was clear," Osasuna manager Jagoba Arrasate told Movistar Plus. "Watching live it looked like a foul, to be honest, but the replay shows that there was nothing..." Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez said. "Sometimes the referee works to our advantage, sometimes he works against us... However, I don't think he was decisive in today's outcome." Also read: Football Transfers: Jadon Sancho escapes Manchester United exile to rejoin Borussia Dortmund on loan × After Lewandowski's goal, Xavi brought Joao Felix off the bench and the Portuguese forward added impetus Barca seemed to lack up-front, forcing goalkeeper Herrera to make a couple of fine saves to keep Osasuna alive. Joao Felix created a quick counter and provided the assist to Yamal who blasted low in to the net to secure the win and set-up an El Clasico in the final. "You don't play finals, you win them. We want to compete against an opponent who I saw very well in the other semi-final," Xavi said. "However, there are no favourites, it's an El Clasico. Hopefully the final will go our way like last year. We are the reigning champions and at least we will enjoy it."

Barcelona sets up clash vs Real Madrid in Super Cup final after 2-0 win over Osasuna

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez said Wednesday he hopes a potential Spanish Super Cup triumph can create an important turning point in his team's season again.

The Spanish champions are languishing in third place in La Liga, seven points behind leaders Real Madrid and Girona at the halfway point.

Barcelona face Osasuna in Riyadh in the Spanish Super Cup semi-finals on Thursday, ahead of a potential showdown against Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid in Sunday's final.

Barcelona, record 14-time Spanish Super Cup winners, lifted the trophy last season in Saudi Arabia, their first silverware under Xavi, and it was a key moment to prove his project was progressing.

"I hope (it can be a turning point), I hope we find consistency," Xavi told a news conference.

"We respect Osasuna a lot, evidently we are favourites -- it's win or lose, a knock-out game, we need to show that we want to be in the final.

"Last year it was perfect for us, it gave us confidence and stability."

After returning to Spain last season the Catalans went on to win 10 of their next 11 league games on their way towards lifting La Liga.

Defender Ronald Araujo also believes winning the Super Cup again could prove important in Barca's bid to turn around a disappointing campaign so far.

"Last year the Super Cup was a turning point, we want it to be the same this year -- it's a trophy and we want to win it," said the Uruguayan centre-back.

Defensively the Catalans have struggled this year which is in stark contrast to last season's Liga success which was based on their superb back-line.

Barcelona have conceded 22 goals in La Liga at the halfway stage of the season after shipping only 20 in the whole of the 2022-23 campaign.

"(We need) to be more effective in both boxes, in defence and attack, to concede fewer goals," continued Araujo.

"We're working to correct errors in defence, it's something that helped us a lot last season, letting in few goals."

Araujo has been linked with a transfer to German champions Bayern Munich in recent weeks in media reports, but said he was only thinking about Barcelona.

"Rumours always come out in transfer windows, I'm focused on Barca and I prove it every time I put this shirt on," said the 24-year-old.

<h2>'Something historic'</h2>

Osasuna coach Jagoba Arrasate was excited for his club's first appearance in the competition.

"It's something historic for the club," said the coach.

"It's a short competition with tough opponents, but we hope that we can win tomorrow."

Arrasate said even though Barcelona were not at their best, Xavi's side had to be respected.

"In these games they grow, and they are the reigning champions," he added.

"I want to win tomorrow and to win we have to see the best Osasuna possible, to try and touch perfection, to make Barcelona uncomfortable.

"Let's think that tomorrow could be a magical night."

Both Arrasate and Osasuna defender David Garcia said they were disappointed many of the club's fans could not make the trip out to Saudi Arabia.

"It's what upsets me the most, not to be able to have all the 'Rojillos' in the stands," said Garcia.

"I hope to be able to earn them a victory and to be able to compete in the final."

Real Madrid face Atletico on Wednesday in the first Super Cup semi-final.

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez said Wednesday he hopes a potential Spanish Super Cup triumph can create an important turning point in his team's season again. The Spanish champions are languishing in third place in La Liga, seven points behind leaders Real Madrid and Girona at the halfway point.

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez said Wednesday he hopes a potential Spanish Super Cup triumph can create an important turning point in his team's season again. The Spanish champions are languishing in third place in La Liga, seven points behind leaders Real Madrid and Girona at the halfway point. Barcelona face Osasuna in Riyadh in the Spanish Super Cup semi-finals on Thursday, ahead of a potential showdown against Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid in Sunday's final. Barcelona, record 14-time Spanish Super Cup winners, lifted the trophy last season in Saudi Arabia, their first silverware under Xavi, and it was a key moment to prove his project was progressing. "I hope (it can be a turning point), I hope we find consistency," Xavi told a news conference. "We respect Osasuna a lot, evidently we are favourites -- it's win or lose, a knock-out game, we need to show that we want to be in the final. "Last year it was perfect for us, it gave us confidence and stability." After returning to Spain last season the Catalans went on to win 10 of their next 11 league games on their way towards lifting La Liga. Defender Ronald Araujo also believes winning the Super Cup again could prove important in Barca's bid to turn around a disappointing campaign so far. "Last year the Super Cup was a turning point, we want it to be the same this year -- it's a trophy and we want to win it," said the Uruguayan centre-back. Defensively the Catalans have struggled this year which is in stark contrast to last season's Liga success which was based on their superb back-line. Barcelona have conceded 22 goals in La Liga at the halfway stage of the season after shipping only 20 in the whole of the 2022-23 campaign. "(We need) to be more effective in both boxes, in defence and attack, to concede fewer goals," continued Araujo. "We're working to correct errors in defence, it's something that helped us a lot last season, letting in few goals." Araujo has been linked with a transfer to German champions Bayern Munich in recent weeks in media reports, but said he was only thinking about Barcelona. "Rumours always come out in transfer windows, I'm focused on Barca and I prove it every time I put this shirt on," said the 24-year-old. 'Something historic' Osasuna coach Jagoba Arrasate was excited for his club's first appearance in the competition. "It's something historic for the club," said the coach. "It's a short competition with tough opponents, but we hope that we can win tomorrow." Arrasate said even though Barcelona were not at their best, Xavi's side had to be respected. "In these games they grow, and they are the reigning champions," he added. "I want to win tomorrow and to win we have to see the best Osasuna possible, to try and touch perfection, to make Barcelona uncomfortable. "Let's think that tomorrow could be a magical night." Both Arrasate and Osasuna defender David Garcia said they were disappointed many of the club's fans could not make the trip out to Saudi Arabia. "It's what upsets me the most, not to be able to have all the 'Rojillos' in the stands," said Garcia. "I hope to be able to earn them a victory and to be able to compete in the final." Real Madrid face Atletico on Wednesday in the first Super Cup semi-final.

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez hopes for change in fortune in Super Cup semi-final

Football is trending in China and behind it are some worrying revelations - a documentary with confessions by football officials, aired on Chinese television. The documentary exposes scandals in the game.

China football officials confess on air about corruption, say 'Corruption is everywhere in football'

Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has said he has been diagnosed with cancer and has a year to live in a "best-case scenario". The 75-year-old led England through the World Cup finals in 2002 and 2006, losing in the quarter-finals on both occasions. In February last year, Eriksson stepped down from his role at Swedish club Karlstad due to "health issues".

"Everyone can see that I have a disease that's not good, and everyone supposes that it's cancer, and it is. But I have to fight it as long as possible," Eriksson said in an appearance on Swedish Radio P1. "I know that in the best case it's about a year, in the worst case even less," he said, according to a transcript on P1's website. "I don't think the doctors I have can be totally sure, they can't put a day on it."

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Despite only losing five competitive games, Eriksson's time in charge of England was a rollercoaster ride, with some superb performances on the field accompanied by scandals off the pitch. The Swede also coached club teams, such as Benfica, AS Roma and Manchester City in a glittering managerial career that spanned four decades.

Eriksson said he was trying not to think about his illness, adding: "You have to trick your brain. I could go around thinking about that all the time and sit at home and be miserable and think I'm unlucky and so on." "It's easy to end up in that position. But no, see the positive sides of things and don't bury yourself in setbacks, because this is the biggest setback of them all of course. It just came from nothing. And that makes you shocked," Eriksson added. "I'm not in any major pain. But I've been diagnosed with a disease that you can slow down but you cannot operate. So it is what it is."

Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has said he has been diagnosed with cancer and has a year to live in a "best-case scenario". The 75-year-old led England through the World Cup finals in 2002 and 2006, losing in the quarter-finals on both occasions.

Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has said he has been diagnosed with cancer and has a year to live in a "best-case scenario". The 75-year-old led England through the World Cup finals in 2002 and 2006, losing in the quarter-finals on both occasions. In February last year, Eriksson stepped down from his role at Swedish club Karlstad due to "health issues". "Everyone can see that I have a disease that's not good, and everyone supposes that it's cancer, and it is. But I have to fight it as long as possible," Eriksson said in an appearance on Swedish Radio P1. "I know that in the best case it's about a year, in the worst case even less," he said, according to a transcript on P1's website. "I don't think the doctors I have can be totally sure, they can't put a day on it." Also read: Atalanta beat AC Milan to reach Italian Cup final, Lazio beat Roma in semis Despite only losing five competitive games, Eriksson's time in charge of England was a rollercoaster ride, with some superb performances on the field accompanied by scandals off the pitch. The Swede also coached club teams, such as Benfica, AS Roma and Manchester City in a glittering managerial career that spanned four decades. Eriksson said he was trying not to think about his illness, adding: "You have to trick your brain. I could go around thinking about that all the time and sit at home and be miserable and think I'm unlucky and so on." "It's easy to end up in that position. But no, see the positive sides of things and don't bury yourself in setbacks, because this is the biggest setback of them all of course. It just came from nothing. And that makes you shocked," Eriksson added. "I'm not in any major pain. But I've been diagnosed with a disease that you can slow down but you cannot operate. So it is what it is."

Ex-England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson reveals cancer battle, says has a year to live in 'best-case scenario'

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said Tuesday he was unhappy to be pitted against fierce city rivals Atletico Madrid three times in under a month.

Los Blancos take on Diego Simeone's Atletico on Wednesday in Riyadh in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final, again next week in the Copa del Rey last 16, and also in La Liga in early February.

Atletico are the only team to beat Real Madrid this season in all competitions, with the Rojiblancos earning a 3-1 league win in September in the derby at their Metropolitano stadium.

"The calendar is what it is, we have to face Atletico Madrid again, we have to play this game," Ancelotti told a news conference.

"I don't like facing Atletico because they are one of the best teams, it's always tough to play them -- but Atletico will be thinking the same thing."

"We are two strong teams and it will be complicated, but I think the fans will enjoy these fixtures, both Real Madrid and Atletico fans."

Ancelotti said Atletico's victory over Madrid this season damaged his side, although they have since gone on a 19-match unbeaten run.

"The truth is the last game we played (against Atletico) did us a lot of damage," continued Ancelotti.

"I think tomorrow we can put a better version of ourselves out there than in our first match against Atletico Madrid."

Atletico had won just one of their previous 14 La Liga matches against Real Madrid before this season's victory.

Real Madrid also beat Atletico in the 2020 Spanish Super Cup final, the first to be played in Saudi Arabia.

Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde was dismissed for hacking down Atletico striker Alvaro Morata as he ran through on goal deep in extra-time, allowing his team to get to penalties, where they triumphed.

"I'd do it (again), if it's for the team," Valverde told reporters.

"If we're losing 3-0 then there's no sense in it, in that final we were battling it out, it was hard-fought... if that was the scoreline again, I'd do it again."

<h2>'Worn down mentally'</h2>

Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodrigo de Paul said he was happy to face off with Los Blancos in the derby triple-header despite the toll it takes on the players.

"I've always enjoyed playing the best teams, and Madrid are one of them," said De Paul.

"Obviously this fixture leads to being worn down mentally and physically a lot, but (Madrid derbies) always have their negatives and positives -- I'll appreciate being able to face one of the best teams."

Simeone said Atletico's triumph over Madrid in September had no bearing on the clash at the Al-Awwal stadium.

"Madrid had some players who couldn't play, and they will be there tomorrow ... that was another game, in another moment," said Simeone.

"We will prepare to play this one in the way we think is apt for this moment."

Key Madrid forward Vinicius Junior was out injured for the defeat by Atletico but has returned from another thigh problem in recent weeks and is poised to start Wednesday.

Spanish Super Cup holders Barcelona face Osasuna on Thursday in the other semi-final clash.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said Tuesday he was unhappy to be pitted against fierce city rivals Atletico Madrid three times in under a month. Los Blancos take on Diego Simeone's Atletico on Wednesday in Riyadh in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final, again next week in the Copa del Rey last 16, and also in La Liga in early February.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said Tuesday he was unhappy to be pitted against fierce city rivals Atletico Madrid three times in under a month. Los Blancos take on Diego Simeone's Atletico on Wednesday in Riyadh in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final, again next week in the Copa del Rey last 16, and also in La Liga in early February. Atletico are the only team to beat Real Madrid this season in all competitions, with the Rojiblancos earning a 3-1 league win in September in the derby at their Metropolitano stadium. "The calendar is what it is, we have to face Atletico Madrid again, we have to play this game," Ancelotti told a news conference. "I don't like facing Atletico because they are one of the best teams, it's always tough to play them -- but Atletico will be thinking the same thing." "We are two strong teams and it will be complicated, but I think the fans will enjoy these fixtures, both Real Madrid and Atletico fans." Ancelotti said Atletico's victory over Madrid this season damaged his side, although they have since gone on a 19-match unbeaten run. "The truth is the last game we played (against Atletico) did us a lot of damage," continued Ancelotti. "I think tomorrow we can put a better version of ourselves out there than in our first match against Atletico Madrid." Atletico had won just one of their previous 14 La Liga matches against Real Madrid before this season's victory. Real Madrid also beat Atletico in the 2020 Spanish Super Cup final, the first to be played in Saudi Arabia. Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde was dismissed for hacking down Atletico striker Alvaro Morata as he ran through on goal deep in extra-time, allowing his team to get to penalties, where they triumphed. "I'd do it (again), if it's for the team," Valverde told reporters. "If we're losing 3-0 then there's no sense in it, in that final we were battling it out, it was hard-fought... if that was the scoreline again, I'd do it again." 'Worn down mentally' Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodrigo de Paul said he was happy to face off with Los Blancos in the derby triple-header despite the toll it takes on the players. "I've always enjoyed playing the best teams, and Madrid are one of them," said De Paul. "Obviously this fixture leads to being worn down mentally and physically a lot, but (Madrid derbies) always have their negatives and positives -- I'll appreciate being able to face one of the best teams." Simeone said Atletico's triumph over Madrid in September had no bearing on the clash at the Al-Awwal stadium. "Madrid had some players who couldn't play, and they will be there tomorrow ... that was another game, in another moment," said Simeone. "We will prepare to play this one in the way we think is apt for this moment." Key Madrid forward Vinicius Junior was out injured for the defeat by Atletico but has returned from another thigh problem in recent weeks and is poised to start Wednesday. Spanish Super Cup holders Barcelona face Osasuna on Thursday in the other semi-final clash.

Real Madrid coach Ancelotti unhappy over facing city rivals Atletico three times in under one month

The former Chinese national football team coach has made a televised confession in which he admitted to paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes to secure the top job, as well as involvement in match-fixing.

Chinese football has been in the grip of a major anti-corruption campaign that has seen numerous leading figures investigated or charged.

Li Tie, a former Everton midfielder who served as the national team's head coach, was placed under investigation in 2022, accused by authorities of&nbsp;"serious violations of the law".

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No detailed information on the case has been available until his confession on Tuesday night, part of an anti-graft documentary aired on state broadcaster CCTV.

CCTV regularly airs confessions by criminal suspects, including former officials, before they have appeared in court -- a practice widely condemned by rights groups.

In the programme, Li said he had arranged nearly $421,000 in bribes to secure the head coach position -- and to have helped fix matches when he was a club coach.

"I'm very sorry. I should have kept my head to the ground and followed the right path," the 46-year-old said.&nbsp;

"There were certain things that at the time were common practices in football," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Paying for the job</h2>

When he took the national coach job in January 2020, Li declared he had achieved one of his "biggest dreams".

But Tuesday's documentary painted a less wholesome picture.&nbsp;

It said Li had asked Wuhan Zall Football Club -- where he then worked as coach -- to intervene on his behalf with the Chinese Football Association (CFA), promising to return the favour.

The club paid two million yuan ($281,000) in bribes to Chen Xuyuan, then president of the CFA and is now also subject to a corruption investigation.&nbsp;

Li also said he gave one million yuan from his own pocket to the secretary-general of the CFA.

Following his appointment, four Wuhan Zall footballers were appointed to the national team -- players who were not qualified to play "at that level", according to the club president, who was interviewed in the documentary.&nbsp;

China eventually failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, leading to Li quitting in 2021.

The national anti-corruption agency launched an investigation into him at the end of 2022.&nbsp;

Around 10 senior leaders and executives of the CFA have also been brought down since, including former president Chen.&nbsp;

Chen was indicted in September for corruption, confessing in the TV documentary to having accepted large sums from those wishing to get in his good graces.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping has described himself as a football fan and said he dreams of China hosting and winning a World Cup one day.

But ambitions of developing the men's team into an international powerhouse have not come to fruition.

The former Chinese national football team coach has made a televised confession in which he admitted to paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes to secure the top job, as well as involvement in match-fixing.

The former Chinese national football team coach has made a televised confession in which he admitted to paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes to secure the top job, as well as involvement in match-fixing. Chinese football has been in the grip of a major anti-corruption campaign that has seen numerous leading figures investigated or charged. Li Tie, a former Everton midfielder who served as the national team's head coach, was placed under investigation in 2022, accused by authorities of "serious violations of the law". Also Read: Tottenham unveil Timo Werner as first big signing in January transfer window No detailed information on the case has been available until his confession on Tuesday night, part of an anti-graft documentary aired on state broadcaster CCTV. CCTV regularly airs confessions by criminal suspects, including former officials, before they have appeared in court -- a practice widely condemned by rights groups. In the programme, Li said he had arranged nearly $421,000 in bribes to secure the head coach position -- and to have helped fix matches when he was a club coach. "I'm very sorry. I should have kept my head to the ground and followed the right path," the 46-year-old said. "There were certain things that at the time were common practices in football," he added. Paying for the job When he took the national coach job in January 2020, Li declared he had achieved one of his "biggest dreams". But Tuesday's documentary painted a less wholesome picture. It said Li had asked Wuhan Zall Football Club -- where he then worked as coach -- to intervene on his behalf with the Chinese Football Association (CFA), promising to return the favour. The club paid two million yuan ($281,000) in bribes to Chen Xuyuan, then president of the CFA and is now also subject to a corruption investigation. Li also said he gave one million yuan from his own pocket to the secretary-general of the CFA. Following his appointment, four Wuhan Zall footballers were appointed to the national team -- players who were not qualified to play "at that level", according to the club president, who was interviewed in the documentary. China eventually failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, leading to Li quitting in 2021. The national anti-corruption agency launched an investigation into him at the end of 2022. Around 10 senior leaders and executives of the CFA have also been brought down since, including former president Chen. Chen was indicted in September for corruption, confessing in the TV documentary to having accepted large sums from those wishing to get in his good graces. Chinese leader Xi Jinping has described himself as a football fan and said he dreams of China hosting and winning a World Cup one day. But ambitions of developing the men's team into an international powerhouse have not come to fruition.

In live TV confession, former China football coach admits to paying bribes for job

Erik ten Hag has refused to rule out making loan signings to combat the injuries and illness that threaten to derail Manchester United's bid to salvage their troubled season.

Ten Hag was without at least 10 senior players for Monday's 2-0 win at third tier Wigan in the FA Cup third round.

Denmark midfielder Christian Eriksen missed the tie due to illness, while Brazil winger Antony was injured.

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United's substitutes were entirely comprising of youngsters, with the oldest outfield player on the bench being 22-year-old Facundo Pellistri.

Although Ten Hag is optimistic a number of players could return in time for Sunday's Premier League match against Tottenham, he is well aware just how stretched his squad is at present.

With the January transfer window open, the Dutch coach was asked if United would consider temporarily deals as well as permanent signings.

"We consider everything. So what is in the best interests of the players and also the best interests for us, the team, for Manchester United. So we'll see how we progress during the window," he said.

United are out of the Champions League and League Cup and are languishing in eighth place in the Premier League, nine points adrift of the top four.

Ten Hag admitted it has been frustrating to lose so many players in recent weeks.

But he won't that to be an excuse for their woeful run, featuring five defeats from their nine games before the Wigan match.

"I don't want to be frustrated because I can do nothing for it, it will not help to support the team," Ten Hag said.&nbsp;

"So we have to get the best performance and best results with the players available and that's what we're trying to do.

"I think there will be some players that are hopeful they can be back for the weekend."

Ten Hag hopes Eriksen can return in time for the Spurs match, while Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire could also be available.

The victory at Wigan sets up an FA Cup fourth round tie at either League Two Newport or non-league Eastleigh.

The competition, which United finished as runners-up in last season, is their only realistic opportunity of silverware this term.

"I don't think (the focus on the FA Cup) would change if you are still in Europe," Ten Hag said.&nbsp;

"It is a massive competition. Everyone wants to win this competition. So every game we take seriously."

Erik ten Hag has refused to rule out making loan signings to combat the injuries and illness that threaten to derail Manchester United's bid to salvage their troubled season.

Erik ten Hag has refused to rule out making loan signings to combat the injuries and illness that threaten to derail Manchester United's bid to salvage their troubled season. Ten Hag was without at least 10 senior players for Monday's 2-0 win at third tier Wigan in the FA Cup third round. Denmark midfielder Christian Eriksen missed the tie due to illness, while Brazil winger Antony was injured. Also Read: Ind vs Eng: R Ashwin is like an app, keeps updating - Former spinner Monty Panesar hails Indian star United's substitutes were entirely comprising of youngsters, with the oldest outfield player on the bench being 22-year-old Facundo Pellistri. Although Ten Hag is optimistic a number of players could return in time for Sunday's Premier League match against Tottenham, he is well aware just how stretched his squad is at present. With the January transfer window open, the Dutch coach was asked if United would consider temporarily deals as well as permanent signings. "We consider everything. So what is in the best interests of the players and also the best interests for us, the team, for Manchester United. So we'll see how we progress during the window," he said. United are out of the Champions League and League Cup and are languishing in eighth place in the Premier League, nine points adrift of the top four. Ten Hag admitted it has been frustrating to lose so many players in recent weeks. But he won't that to be an excuse for their woeful run, featuring five defeats from their nine games before the Wigan match. "I don't want to be frustrated because I can do nothing for it, it will not help to support the team," Ten Hag said. "So we have to get the best performance and best results with the players available and that's what we're trying to do. "I think there will be some players that are hopeful they can be back for the weekend." Ten Hag hopes Eriksen can return in time for the Spurs match, while Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire could also be available. The victory at Wigan sets up an FA Cup fourth round tie at either League Two Newport or non-league Eastleigh. The competition, which United finished as runners-up in last season, is their only realistic opportunity of silverware this term. "I don't think (the focus on the FA Cup) would change if you are still in Europe," Ten Hag said. "It is a massive competition. Everyone wants to win this competition. So every game we take seriously."

'We consider everything,' says Manchester United boss Ten Hag on loan signings amid growing injury list

Liverpool survived an Arsenal barrage to claim a place in the FA Cup fourth round in dramatic fashion as a pair of late goals sealed a 2-0 win on Sunday.

While Kevin De Bruyne's long-awaited return for Manchester City in the holders' 5-0 rout of Huddersfield was a memorable moment on Sunday, it was Liverpool's victory in the blockbuster third round clash at the Emirates Stadium that stole the spotlight.

Jurgen Klopp's side rode their luck for long spells as Arsenal wasted a series of chances before Polish defender Jakub Kiwior headed Trent Alexander-Arnold's free-kick into his own net with 10 minutes left.

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Luis Diaz wrapped up the smash and grab raid in stoppage-time.

Liverpool's first FA Cup win over Arsenal since the 2001 final was a significant moment as the Premier League leaders inflicted a psychological blow on one of their main title rivals.

Arsenal have now won only once in their last six games in all competitions, an unexpected stumble that leaves them out of the FA Cup and League Cup and five points behind Liverpool in the title race.

No wonder Klopp celebrated with such gusto at the final whistle, pumping his fists in acknowledgement of a victory that could springboard Liverpool's bid to win four trophies.

"In the end we came through. I'm really happy we could win this game. Arsenal could have won it without a doubt. We finished it off and it spoke for the character of the boys," Klopp said.

The Reds, who drew 1-1 with Arsenal in the Premier League in December, face Fulham in the League Cup semi-final first leg in midweek and are also through to the Europa League last 16.

"The performance was there and the amount of chances too. We just have to win the game, but we lost it and we are not capitalising," Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta said.&nbsp;

Klopp was without Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo, who are competing at the Africa Cup of Nations and Asian Cup respectively, and the ill Virgil Van Dijk.

Martin Odegaard should have rewarded the Gunners for their vibrant start, but the midfielder blasted his shot off the bar from 12 yards.

Ben White's thunderous strike from just inside the area forced a superb tip-over from Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker.

<h2>Liverpool ride their luck</h2>

By the time Kai Havertz wasted two good opportunities in quick succession, Arteta must have feared Arsenal would pay for their profligacy.

Arteta held his head in frustration as Bukayo Saka volleyed over from a dangerous position.

Liverpool finally came to life and Luis Diaz's snap-shot was well saved by Aaron Ramsdale, while Diogo Jota hit the woodwork.

In the 80th minute, Alexander-Arnold's free-kick was headed into his own net by Kiwior and Diaz sealed the win in final seconds of stoppage-time as he took Jota's pass and fired home from 10 yards.

Manchester City midfielder De Bruyne had been sidelined since tearing his hamstring during the Premier League opener against Burnley in August.

He finally got back in action as a 57th minute substitute in City's emphatic victory over Championship strugglers Huddersfield at the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola's side were leading by goals from Phil Foden and Julian Alvarez when the 32-year-old was introduced.

City netted three more times through Ben Jackson's own goal, another Foden effort and a Jeremy Doku strike on his return from injury as a second half substitute.

Fittingly, Doku's goal was set up by a deft lofted pass from De Bruyne.

City have stayed afloat without De Bruyne, but his world-class quality in midfield will be a key factor in their bid to retain the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.

"We are incredibly delighted to have him back because Kevin helps to win games. Kevin is exceptional. He is unique," Guardiola said.

Premier League strugglers Luton were held 0-0 by third tier Bolton at Kenilworth Road.

Nottingham Forest were also given a scare by League One opponents as Nuno Espirito Santo's men recovered from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Blackpool.

West Ham were held to a 1-1 draw against second tier Bristol City at the London Stadium.

Liverpool survived an Arsenal barrage to claim a place in the FA Cup fourth round in dramatic fashion as a pair of late goals sealed a 2-0 win on Sunday. While Kevin De Bruyne's long-awaited return for Manchester City in the holders' 5-0 rout of Huddersfield was a memorable moment on Sunday, it was Liverpool's victory in the blockbuster third round clash at the Emirates Stadium that stole the spotlight.

Liverpool survived an Arsenal barrage to claim a place in the FA Cup fourth round in dramatic fashion as a pair of late goals sealed a 2-0 win on Sunday. While Kevin De Bruyne's long-awaited return for Manchester City in the holders' 5-0 rout of Huddersfield was a memorable moment on Sunday, it was Liverpool's victory in the blockbuster third round clash at the Emirates Stadium that stole the spotlight. Jurgen Klopp's side rode their luck for long spells as Arsenal wasted a series of chances before Polish defender Jakub Kiwior headed Trent Alexander-Arnold's free-kick into his own net with 10 minutes left. Also Read: Foden’s brace steers Manchester City in round 4 with easy win over Huddersfield Town Luis Diaz wrapped up the smash and grab raid in stoppage-time. Liverpool's first FA Cup win over Arsenal since the 2001 final was a significant moment as the Premier League leaders inflicted a psychological blow on one of their main title rivals. Arsenal have now won only once in their last six games in all competitions, an unexpected stumble that leaves them out of the FA Cup and League Cup and five points behind Liverpool in the title race. No wonder Klopp celebrated with such gusto at the final whistle, pumping his fists in acknowledgement of a victory that could springboard Liverpool's bid to win four trophies. "In the end we came through. I'm really happy we could win this game. Arsenal could have won it without a doubt. We finished it off and it spoke for the character of the boys," Klopp said. The Reds, who drew 1-1 with Arsenal in the Premier League in December, face Fulham in the League Cup semi-final first leg in midweek and are also through to the Europa League last 16. "The performance was there and the amount of chances too. We just have to win the game, but we lost it and we are not capitalising," Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta said. Klopp was without Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo, who are competing at the Africa Cup of Nations and Asian Cup respectively, and the ill Virgil Van Dijk. Martin Odegaard should have rewarded the Gunners for their vibrant start, but the midfielder blasted his shot off the bar from 12 yards. Ben White's thunderous strike from just inside the area forced a superb tip-over from Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker. Liverpool ride their luck By the time Kai Havertz wasted two good opportunities in quick succession, Arteta must have feared Arsenal would pay for their profligacy. Arteta held his head in frustration as Bukayo Saka volleyed over from a dangerous position. Liverpool finally came to life and Luis Diaz's snap-shot was well saved by Aaron Ramsdale, while Diogo Jota hit the woodwork. In the 80th minute, Alexander-Arnold's free-kick was headed into his own net by Kiwior and Diaz sealed the win in final seconds of stoppage-time as he took Jota's pass and fired home from 10 yards. Manchester City midfielder De Bruyne had been sidelined since tearing his hamstring during the Premier League opener against Burnley in August. He finally got back in action as a 57th minute substitute in City's emphatic victory over Championship strugglers Huddersfield at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola's side were leading by goals from Phil Foden and Julian Alvarez when the 32-year-old was introduced. City netted three more times through Ben Jackson's own goal, another Foden effort and a Jeremy Doku strike on his return from injury as a second half substitute. Fittingly, Doku's goal was set up by a deft lofted pass from De Bruyne. City have stayed afloat without De Bruyne, but his world-class quality in midfield will be a key factor in their bid to retain the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup. "We are incredibly delighted to have him back because Kevin helps to win games. Kevin is exceptional. He is unique," Guardiola said. Premier League strugglers Luton were held 0-0 by third tier Bolton at Kenilworth Road. Nottingham Forest were also given a scare by League One opponents as Nuno Espirito Santo's men recovered from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Blackpool. West Ham were held to a 1-1 draw against second tier Bristol City at the London Stadium.

FA Cup: Liverpool seal dramatic win despite Arsenal's late barrage to enter fourth round

Reigning champions Real Madrid secured their place in the Copa del Rey last 16 with a 3-1 win at fourth-tier Arandina on Saturday.

The minnows fought gamely in the first half but Joselu put Madrid ahead with a penalty early in the second, with Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo Goes expanding Madrid's lead.

Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez put through his own net in stoppage time to give Arandina a consolation goal which delighted supporters at their packed 6,000 capacity El Montecillo stadium.

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Elsewhere Atletico Madrid progressed with a 3-1 win at third-tier Lugo after Memphis Depay struck twice, while Real Betis were knocked out in a 1-0 defeat by Alaves.

Surprise La Liga title challengers Girona beat second division side Elche 2-0.

Arandina battled well to frustrate Madrid in a surprisingly even first half in the province of Castile and Leon, north of the Spanish capital.

Carlo Ancelotti started Eduardo Camavinga, returning after a knee ligament injury which saw him miss nearly two months.

Otherwise the Italian largely deployed a combination of reserve and youth players, handing Turkish playmaker Arda Guler his first appearance since joining Madrid this summer from Fenerbahce.

Guler came closer than anyone to scoring in the first half, striking the post with a rasping free-kick and playing with freedom to roam.

Madrid took the lead from the spot early in the second half after the excellent Diaz was tripped by Zazu as he ran into the area, with Joselu dispatching a firm, low penalty.

Diaz added the second moments later after the ball broke loose to him and he fired it home across Arandina goalkeeper Adrian Alvarez.

Joselu missed a good chance to extend Madrid's lead further before substitute Rodrygo stroked in the third in stoppage time from Diaz's cross.

Arandina got the goal their performance deserved at the death when Nacho deflected Raly Cabral's cross into his own net.

Earlier Depay scored twice for Atletico to send them through after Lugo had taken the visitors in level at the break.

Atletico took the lead in the second minute when Angel Correa tapped home Javi Galan's cross at the back post.

However the visitors were pegged back when Puerto Rican striker Leandro Antonetti bundled his way into the area and finished with aplomb.

Diego Simeone sent on Antoine Griezmann at half-time, bidding to avoid an upset, and Atletico took the lead midway through the second half through Depay.

The striker found space in the box and smashed home, going on to quickly add a second goal with a superb clipped finish from Marcos Llorente's cross.

"The team came out well after the break and in general had a good second half and were fair winners," Simeone told reporters.

Record 31-time Copa winners Barcelona visit Barbastro on Sunday.

Reigning champions Real Madrid secured their place in the Copa del Rey last 16 with a 3-1 win at fourth-tier Arandina on Saturday. The minnows fought gamely in the first half but Joselu put Madrid ahead with a penalty early in the second, with Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo Goes expanding Madrid's lead.

Reigning champions Real Madrid secured their place in the Copa del Rey last 16 with a 3-1 win at fourth-tier Arandina on Saturday. The minnows fought gamely in the first half but Joselu put Madrid ahead with a penalty early in the second, with Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo Goes expanding Madrid's lead. Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez put through his own net in stoppage time to give Arandina a consolation goal which delighted supporters at their packed 6,000 capacity El Montecillo stadium. Also Read: Football Transfer: Tottenham Hotspur to strike Timo Werner deal; Radu Dragusin also close to signing Elsewhere Atletico Madrid progressed with a 3-1 win at third-tier Lugo after Memphis Depay struck twice, while Real Betis were knocked out in a 1-0 defeat by Alaves. Surprise La Liga title challengers Girona beat second division side Elche 2-0. Arandina battled well to frustrate Madrid in a surprisingly even first half in the province of Castile and Leon, north of the Spanish capital. Carlo Ancelotti started Eduardo Camavinga, returning after a knee ligament injury which saw him miss nearly two months. Otherwise the Italian largely deployed a combination of reserve and youth players, handing Turkish playmaker Arda Guler his first appearance since joining Madrid this summer from Fenerbahce. Guler came closer than anyone to scoring in the first half, striking the post with a rasping free-kick and playing with freedom to roam. Madrid took the lead from the spot early in the second half after the excellent Diaz was tripped by Zazu as he ran into the area, with Joselu dispatching a firm, low penalty. Diaz added the second moments later after the ball broke loose to him and he fired it home across Arandina goalkeeper Adrian Alvarez. Joselu missed a good chance to extend Madrid's lead further before substitute Rodrygo stroked in the third in stoppage time from Diaz's cross. Arandina got the goal their performance deserved at the death when Nacho deflected Raly Cabral's cross into his own net. Earlier Depay scored twice for Atletico to send them through after Lugo had taken the visitors in level at the break. Atletico took the lead in the second minute when Angel Correa tapped home Javi Galan's cross at the back post. However the visitors were pegged back when Puerto Rican striker Leandro Antonetti bundled his way into the area and finished with aplomb. Diego Simeone sent on Antoine Griezmann at half-time, bidding to avoid an upset, and Atletico took the lead midway through the second half through Depay. The striker found space in the box and smashed home, going on to quickly add a second goal with a superb clipped finish from Marcos Llorente's cross. "The team came out well after the break and in general had a good second half and were fair winners," Simeone told reporters. Record 31-time Copa winners Barcelona visit Barbastro on Sunday.

Real Madrid enter Copa del Rey last 16 with win over Arandina

Pedro Porro scored his first goal of the season to put Tottenham Hotspur through to the fourth round of the FA Cup with a 1-0 victory over Burnley on Friday, while Fulham eased their way through with a 1-0 win over Rotherham United.

WATCH HERE -

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An unbelievable strike from <a href="https://twitter.com/Pedroporro29_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pedroporro29_</a> to win it 🚀 <a href="https://t.co/1wGFPbbU95">pic.twitter.com/1wGFPbbU95</a>
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpursOfficial/status/1743396851565334989?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Ten-man Wolverhampton Wanderers came from behind to draw 1-1 at Brentford and force a replay, despite having Joao Gomes sent off in the ninth minute.

Eight-time FA Cup winners Spurs and Burnley looked destined for a replay before Porro broke the deadlock in the 78th minute of a drab game when he intercepted goalkeeper Arijanet Muric's throw, firing a rocket from long range into the top far corner.

"(Porro) shoots a lot in training - misses a lot, but today it came off and it was an unbelievable goal," a grinning Spurs forward Brennan Johnson told ITV.

The victory was relief for Ange Postecoglou's team, who were missing several key players to injury and international duty, including South Korea captain Son Heung-min at the Asian Cup, and Pape Matar Sarr and Yves Bissouma, who are both at the Africa Cup of Nations.

"The bottom line is we're though to the next round so that's what you've got to take out of it because I think the cup games are a unique beast and we're through to the next round so that's the main thing," Postecoglou said.

"We were a little bit wasteful in the final third because we had most of the ball, most of the territory."

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Burnley's best chance came in the first half when Zeki Amdouni received a clever flick just outside the six-yard box but took a poor first touch and launched the ball over the bar. They rarely threatened as Spurs found a way to grind out the win.

Championship (second tier) side Rotherham, who haven't made it through to the fourth round of the competition since 2001-02, kept their composure early on as Fulham controlled the play.

But Bobby De Cordova-Reid made the breakthrough in the 24th minute, smashing the ball into the top left corner from outside the area as the visitors became overstretched, much to the delight of the foot-stamping fans rattling the century-old Johnny Haynes stand.

Jordan Hugill thought he had levelled the score for Rotherham just moments later, but his effort was ruled out for offside, and ultimately the Yorkshire side were sent home without registering a single shot on target.

"Going through in the competition was our aim, our desire was clear and we deserved it," Fulham manager Marco Silva said.

Depleted Wolves fell behind to a Neal Maupay goal four minutes before the break but the visitors found the equaliser in the 64th minute when Tommy Doyle hit a stunning strike from outside the area, and will be happy to take Brentford back to Molineux.

"I'm really pleased, it's an incredible effort from the players," said Wolves manager Gary O'Neil. "There was not much between the teams even with 10 versus 11. We coped with their extra man, tactically we dealt with it very well. Even going 1-0 down with 10 men, to put in the second half they did was really impressive."

There are 27 games scheduled for Sunday, while Wigan Athletic host Manchester United on Monday. Everton and Crystal Palace clash in a replay on Jan. 17 to wrap up the third round.

The fourth round is scheduled for the weekend of Jan. 27.

Pedro Porro scored his first goal of the season to put Tottenham Hotspur through to the fourth round of the FA Cup with a 1-0 victory over Burnley on Friday, while Fulham eased their way through with a 1-0 win over Rotherham United.

Pedro Porro scored his first goal of the season to put Tottenham Hotspur through to the fourth round of the FA Cup with a 1-0 victory over Burnley on Friday, while Fulham eased their way through with a 1-0 win over Rotherham United. WATCH HERE - An unbelievable strike from @Pedroporro29_ to win it 🚀 pic.twitter.com/1wGFPbbU95 — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) January 5, 2024 × Ten-man Wolverhampton Wanderers came from behind to draw 1-1 at Brentford and force a replay, despite having Joao Gomes sent off in the ninth minute. Eight-time FA Cup winners Spurs and Burnley looked destined for a replay before Porro broke the deadlock in the 78th minute of a drab game when he intercepted goalkeeper Arijanet Muric's throw, firing a rocket from long range into the top far corner. "(Porro) shoots a lot in training - misses a lot, but today it came off and it was an unbelievable goal," a grinning Spurs forward Brennan Johnson told ITV. The victory was relief for Ange Postecoglou's team, who were missing several key players to injury and international duty, including South Korea captain Son Heung-min at the Asian Cup, and Pape Matar Sarr and Yves Bissouma, who are both at the Africa Cup of Nations. "The bottom line is we're though to the next round so that's what you've got to take out of it because I think the cup games are a unique beast and we're through to the next round so that's the main thing," Postecoglou said. "We were a little bit wasteful in the final third because we had most of the ball, most of the territory." ALSO READ: Brazil part ways with coach Fernando Diniz as CBF wants Sao Paulo boss Dorival Junior as replacement Burnley's best chance came in the first half when Zeki Amdouni received a clever flick just outside the six-yard box but took a poor first touch and launched the ball over the bar. They rarely threatened as Spurs found a way to grind out the win. Championship (second tier) side Rotherham, who haven't made it through to the fourth round of the competition since 2001-02, kept their composure early on as Fulham controlled the play. But Bobby De Cordova-Reid made the breakthrough in the 24th minute, smashing the ball into the top left corner from outside the area as the visitors became overstretched, much to the delight of the foot-stamping fans rattling the century-old Johnny Haynes stand. Jordan Hugill thought he had levelled the score for Rotherham just moments later, but his effort was ruled out for offside, and ultimately the Yorkshire side were sent home without registering a single shot on target. "Going through in the competition was our aim, our desire was clear and we deserved it," Fulham manager Marco Silva said. Depleted Wolves fell behind to a Neal Maupay goal four minutes before the break but the visitors found the equaliser in the 64th minute when Tommy Doyle hit a stunning strike from outside the area, and will be happy to take Brentford back to Molineux. "I'm really pleased, it's an incredible effort from the players," said Wolves manager Gary O'Neil. "There was not much between the teams even with 10 versus 11. We coped with their extra man, tactically we dealt with it very well. Even going 1-0 down with 10 men, to put in the second half they did was really impressive." There are 27 games scheduled for Sunday, while Wigan Athletic host Manchester United on Monday. Everton and Crystal Palace clash in a replay on Jan. 17 to wrap up the third round. The fourth round is scheduled for the weekend of Jan. 27.

Pedro Porro's super strike helps Spurs through to fourth round of FA Cup

The first person to win the FIFA World Cup as both a player and coach, Mario Zagallo was as instrumental a figure as any in Brazil's rise to prominence as a global football power.

Zagallo, who died Friday at the age of 92, was the only surviving member of the Brazil team that lifted the 1958 World Cup trophy, the country's first title and one that eased the pain of a traumatic defeat by Uruguay at the Maracana eight years prior.

"I was at the Maracana for that fateful loss to Uruguay. I was a soldier and it was my job to keep people off the pitch," said Zagallo of a result that prompted national mourning.

"I'll never forget the silence, the sadness and the disappointment of that defeat."

His legendary teammate Pele died in December 2022.

While that memory remained vivid, Zagallo would do his utmost to relieve the anguish by leaving his fingerprints on four of Brazil's five World Cup triumphs.

Emerging from the amateur ranks during the 1950s, Zagallo, a diminutive left winger, embodied Brazil's quest to blend attacking flair with defensive solidity, combining his own exquisite technique with admirable commitment.

He won five Rio de Janeiro state championships with Flamengo and Botafogo. He only made his Brazil debut at the age of 26, shortly before the 1958 World Cup in Sweden, but became an integral member of the team, winning 37 caps.&nbsp;

<h2>Brazil's run of success</h2>

The tournament, which launched 17-year-old sensation Pele on the world stage, ended with Brazil beating the hosts 5-2 in the final. Zagallo scored his team's fourth and then set up Pele for the final goal.

Four years later, Zagallo played every single minute as a Garrincha-inspired Brazil overcame an injury sustained by Pele in the group stage to retain their crown, coming from behind to beat Czechoslovakia 3-1 in Santiago.

After retirement, Zagallo returned to the game as a manager, taking over former club Botafogo and leading them to two more state titles in a country under a military dictatorship.

Joao Saldanha had guided the national team to the 1970 World Cup in Mexico but was cast aside before the tournament in favor of Zagallo. Saldanha fell out with Pele and refused to bow to demands of then-president Emilio Garrastazu Medici on squad selection and, as a known Communist sympathizer, his fate was sealed.

Zagallo, just 38 at the time, inherited an exceptionally gifted squad -- including Pele, Carlos Alberto, Jairzinho and Rivelino -- and oversaw six wins from six games as Brazil captured the title for a third time in four attempts.

Years ahead of his time as a player, Zagallo quickly demonstrated his merit as a coach. He later reflected on the fabled 1970 World Cup, dominated by a spectacular Brazilian display, as his "greatest memory as a manager".

A counter-intuitive type who believed in the number 13, Zagallo's unabating hunger for success brought further domestic titles with Fluminense and Flamengo before he ventured abroad to Kuwait, winning the Gulf Cup in 1976 and reaching that year's Asian Cup final.

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<h2>Tireless pursuit of glory</h2>

After taking United Arab Emirates to Italy in 1990, Zagallo was called on by Brazil for a final time, as technical director for the 1994 World Cup in the United States.

Together with his protege, Carlos Alberto Perreira, he guided the side to another world title after a dull final against Italy led to a penalty shootout.

His tilt at a fifth success fell agonizingly short in 1998, when Ronaldo, the pre-eminent player of his generation, suffered a mysterious fit before the final and Brazil slumped to a 3-0 defeat to hosts France.

Zagallo's durability and lasting aura ensured he was a natural choice to stand in briefly for the departed Luiz Felipe Scolari following Brazil's fifth World Cup victory in 2002.

"He was one of the greatest Brazilian players of his generation and, after winning the World Cup four times, he has left a permanent mark on Brazilian football," said Ronaldo of the man nicknamed "The Professor".

His wife of 57 years, Alcina de Castro, passed away in 2012.&nbsp;

The first person to win the FIFA World Cup as both a player and coach, Mario Zagallo was as instrumental a figure as any in Brazil's rise to prominence as a global football power.

The first person to win the FIFA World Cup as both a player and coach, Mario Zagallo was as instrumental a figure as any in Brazil's rise to prominence as a global football power. Zagallo, who died Friday at the age of 92, was the only surviving member of the Brazil team that lifted the 1958 World Cup trophy, the country's first title and one that eased the pain of a traumatic defeat by Uruguay at the Maracana eight years prior. "I was at the Maracana for that fateful loss to Uruguay. I was a soldier and it was my job to keep people off the pitch," said Zagallo of a result that prompted national mourning. "I'll never forget the silence, the sadness and the disappointment of that defeat." His legendary teammate Pele died in December 2022. While that memory remained vivid, Zagallo would do his utmost to relieve the anguish by leaving his fingerprints on four of Brazil's five World Cup triumphs. Emerging from the amateur ranks during the 1950s, Zagallo, a diminutive left winger, embodied Brazil's quest to blend attacking flair with defensive solidity, combining his own exquisite technique with admirable commitment. He won five Rio de Janeiro state championships with Flamengo and Botafogo. He only made his Brazil debut at the age of 26, shortly before the 1958 World Cup in Sweden, but became an integral member of the team, winning 37 caps. Brazil's run of success The tournament, which launched 17-year-old sensation Pele on the world stage, ended with Brazil beating the hosts 5-2 in the final. Zagallo scored his team's fourth and then set up Pele for the final goal. Four years later, Zagallo played every single minute as a Garrincha-inspired Brazil overcame an injury sustained by Pele in the group stage to retain their crown, coming from behind to beat Czechoslovakia 3-1 in Santiago. After retirement, Zagallo returned to the game as a manager, taking over former club Botafogo and leading them to two more state titles in a country under a military dictatorship. Joao Saldanha had guided the national team to the 1970 World Cup in Mexico but was cast aside before the tournament in favor of Zagallo. Saldanha fell out with Pele and refused to bow to demands of then-president Emilio Garrastazu Medici on squad selection and, as a known Communist sympathizer, his fate was sealed. Zagallo, just 38 at the time, inherited an exceptionally gifted squad -- including Pele, Carlos Alberto, Jairzinho and Rivelino -- and oversaw six wins from six games as Brazil captured the title for a third time in four attempts. Years ahead of his time as a player, Zagallo quickly demonstrated his merit as a coach. He later reflected on the fabled 1970 World Cup, dominated by a spectacular Brazilian display, as his "greatest memory as a manager". A counter-intuitive type who believed in the number 13, Zagallo's unabating hunger for success brought further domestic titles with Fluminense and Flamengo before he ventured abroad to Kuwait, winning the Gulf Cup in 1976 and reaching that year's Asian Cup final. ALSO READ | David Warner hits 57 in farewell Test innings as Australia complete clean sweep over Pakistan in Sydney Tireless pursuit of glory After taking United Arab Emirates to Italy in 1990, Zagallo was called on by Brazil for a final time, as technical director for the 1994 World Cup in the United States. Together with his protege, Carlos Alberto Perreira, he guided the side to another world title after a dull final against Italy led to a penalty shootout. His tilt at a fifth success fell agonizingly short in 1998, when Ronaldo, the pre-eminent player of his generation, suffered a mysterious fit before the final and Brazil slumped to a 3-0 defeat to hosts France. Zagallo's durability and lasting aura ensured he was a natural choice to stand in briefly for the departed Luiz Felipe Scolari following Brazil's fifth World Cup victory in 2002. "He was one of the greatest Brazilian players of his generation and, after winning the World Cup four times, he has left a permanent mark on Brazilian football," said Ronaldo of the man nicknamed "The Professor". His wife of 57 years, Alcina de Castro, passed away in 2012.

Football: Brazilian World Cup winner Mario Zagallo dies aged 92

Algerian international footballer Youcef Atal was handed an eight-month suspended sentence by a French court Wednesday for inciting religious hatred in a social media post about the conflict in Gaza. The 27-year-old defender, who plays for Ligue 1 side Nice, must also pay a fine of 45,000 euros ($49,000) for sharing a video calling for a "black day for the Jews", the Nice criminal court ruled.

He will further pay for details of his conviction to be published in regional daily Nice-Matin and national newspaper Le Monde. The comments at issue came in a video of a preacher, Mahmoud Al Hasanat, which Atal posted to his 3.2-million-follower Instagram account five days after Hamas' bloody October 7 assault on Israel.

Israel in response launched a campaign against the militant group which has cost over 22,000 lives according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry. After speaking about the children killed in the bombardments, Al Hasanat called on god to send a "black day for the Jews" and "guide the hand" of Gazans striking back.

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Atal was with the Algerian national team in his home country when he shared the video. He withdrew it the following day when Nice warned him it was likely to attract controversy, offering his apologies. Atal had apologised again to the court during the hearings, saying he had wanted to send a "message of peace" and did not watch the entire 35-second video before posting it.

That argument did not convince prosecutors or plaintiffs, mostly Jewish organisations and the Professional Football League (LFP). "Sharing a video means being party to its message and lending it visibility," prosecutor Meggi Choutia told the court. "There is no talk of peace at any moment in these 35 seconds," she added.

Nice have suspended Atal from playing "until further notice", while he received a seven-match ban -- since expired -- from the LFP. He has however appeared for Algeria's Fennecs three times, he is in their squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations tournament, and received support in his home country.

Algerian international footballer Youcef Atal was handed an eight-month suspended sentence by a French court Wednesday for inciting religious hatred in a social media post about the conflict in Gaza.

Algerian international footballer Youcef Atal was handed an eight-month suspended sentence by a French court Wednesday for inciting religious hatred in a social media post about the conflict in Gaza. The 27-year-old defender, who plays for Ligue 1 side Nice, must also pay a fine of 45,000 euros ($49,000) for sharing a video calling for a "black day for the Jews", the Nice criminal court ruled. He will further pay for details of his conviction to be published in regional daily Nice-Matin and national newspaper Le Monde. The comments at issue came in a video of a preacher, Mahmoud Al Hasanat, which Atal posted to his 3.2-million-follower Instagram account five days after Hamas' bloody October 7 assault on Israel. Israel in response launched a campaign against the militant group which has cost over 22,000 lives according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry. After speaking about the children killed in the bombardments, Al Hasanat called on god to send a "black day for the Jews" and "guide the hand" of Gazans striking back. Also read: Wrestlers protest against Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik at Delhi's Jantar Mantar Atal was with the Algerian national team in his home country when he shared the video. He withdrew it the following day when Nice warned him it was likely to attract controversy, offering his apologies. Atal had apologised again to the court during the hearings, saying he had wanted to send a "message of peace" and did not watch the entire 35-second video before posting it. That argument did not convince prosecutors or plaintiffs, mostly Jewish organisations and the Professional Football League (LFP). "Sharing a video means being party to its message and lending it visibility," prosecutor Meggi Choutia told the court. "There is no talk of peace at any moment in these 35 seconds," she added. Nice have suspended Atal from playing "until further notice", while he received a seven-match ban -- since expired -- from the LFP. He has however appeared for Algeria's Fennecs three times, he is in their squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations tournament, and received support in his home country.

Algerian footballer Youcef Atal handed eight-month suspension over Gaza war post

Lee Kang-in and Kylian Mbappe scored first-half goals as Paris Saint-Germain won the first silverware of the French season on Wednesday, beating Toulouse 2-0 to claim the Champions Trophy.

Lee, playing his final game before heading off to the Asian Cup in Qatar with South Korea, put PSG ahead in the third minute, leaving Toulouse with an uphill battle at the Parc des Princes.

Mbappe then added a superb second goal just before half-time, as Paris claimed the Champions Trophy for the 10th time in the last 11 seasons.

"We were exceptional in the first half. It was our best 45 minutes of my time here," said PSG coach Luis Enrique after claiming his first silverware as a coach since leaving Barcelona in 2017.

France's version of a Super Cup is habitually the curtain-raiser to the season and has usually been staged abroad over the last 15 years, including in Tel Aviv at the beginning of the last campaign.

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This season's edition was initially due to be played in Thailand in August before being postponed and held in PSG's own stadium rather than on neutral ground.

Home advantage gave Luis Enrique's team, the reigning Ligue 1 champions, the edge as they opened the scoring from one of their first attacks, Lee firing in from Ousmane Dembele's cushioned first-time ball into the middle.

It was a third goal of the season for Lee, who is likely to have a big role to play as South Korea aim to win the Asian Cup for the first time since 1960.

Toulouse, taking part after winning last season's French Cup, almost equalised late in the first half when a Thijs Dallinga shot was tipped onto the post by PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Instead, PSG scored again just before the interval as Mbappe -- who is out of contract at the end of the season and so is now free to discuss terms with other clubs -- collected a Bradley Barcola pass before burying a superb shot into the net for his 22nd goal in all competitions this season.

Achraf Hakimi hit the post from a second-half free-kick as Toulouse avoided conceding any further goals and PSG brought on Lucas Beraldo for his debut following the young Brazilian defender's arrival from Sao Paulo.

He replaced Milan Skriniar, who hobbled off injured and is now set for a spell on the sidelines.

"It is nothing minor so we will wait and see what the tests show but I am sure he will be out of our coming games," Luis Enrique said of Skriniar.

Hakimi now departs for the Africa Cup of Nations with Morocco, who will be among the favourites for that competition taking place in the Ivory Coast.

The final of the AFCON will be staged on February 11, while the Asian Cup final is a day earlier.

Therefore, if Hakimi and Lee go all the way with their countries, they will not return for PSG until just before the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie against Real Sociedad on February 14.

Lee Kang-in and Kylian Mbappe scored first-half goals as Paris Saint-Germain won the first silverware of the French season on Wednesday, beating Toulouse 2-0 to claim the Champions Trophy.

Lee Kang-in and Kylian Mbappe scored first-half goals as Paris Saint-Germain won the first silverware of the French season on Wednesday, beating Toulouse 2-0 to claim the Champions Trophy. Lee, playing his final game before heading off to the Asian Cup in Qatar with South Korea, put PSG ahead in the third minute, leaving Toulouse with an uphill battle at the Parc des Princes. Mbappe then added a superb second goal just before half-time, as Paris claimed the Champions Trophy for the 10th time in the last 11 seasons. "We were exceptional in the first half. It was our best 45 minutes of my time here," said PSG coach Luis Enrique after claiming his first silverware as a coach since leaving Barcelona in 2017. France's version of a Super Cup is habitually the curtain-raiser to the season and has usually been staged abroad over the last 15 years, including in Tel Aviv at the beginning of the last campaign. ALSO READ: La Liga: Joint leaders Girona edge past Atletico Madrid in thriller This season's edition was initially due to be played in Thailand in August before being postponed and held in PSG's own stadium rather than on neutral ground. Home advantage gave Luis Enrique's team, the reigning Ligue 1 champions, the edge as they opened the scoring from one of their first attacks, Lee firing in from Ousmane Dembele's cushioned first-time ball into the middle. It was a third goal of the season for Lee, who is likely to have a big role to play as South Korea aim to win the Asian Cup for the first time since 1960. Toulouse, taking part after winning last season's French Cup, almost equalised late in the first half when a Thijs Dallinga shot was tipped onto the post by PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Instead, PSG scored again just before the interval as Mbappe -- who is out of contract at the end of the season and so is now free to discuss terms with other clubs -- collected a Bradley Barcola pass before burying a superb shot into the net for his 22nd goal in all competitions this season. Achraf Hakimi hit the post from a second-half free-kick as Toulouse avoided conceding any further goals and PSG brought on Lucas Beraldo for his debut following the young Brazilian defender's arrival from Sao Paulo. He replaced Milan Skriniar, who hobbled off injured and is now set for a spell on the sidelines. "It is nothing minor so we will wait and see what the tests show but I am sure he will be out of our coming games," Luis Enrique said of Skriniar. Hakimi now departs for the Africa Cup of Nations with Morocco, who will be among the favourites for that competition taking place in the Ivory Coast. The final of the AFCON will be staged on February 11, while the Asian Cup final is a day earlier. Therefore, if Hakimi and Lee go all the way with their countries, they will not return for PSG until just before the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie against Real Sociedad on February 14.

Kylian Mbappe scores as PSG beat Toulouse to win first silverware of French season

Spanish World Cup winning star Jenni Hermoso was testifying before a judge Tuesday about disgraced former Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales kissing her at the Women's World Cup trophy ceremony.

The 33-year-old arrived at the Audiencia Nacional, Spain's main criminal court, shortly before 10:00 am (0900 GMT) wearing a long grey overcoat.&nbsp;

Smiling, she greeted the press outside the Madrid courthouse without making any remarks before going in to testify before Judge Francisco de Jorge, who is investigating Rubiales on allegations of sexual assault and coercion.&nbsp;

The then RFEF football federation chief, who was eventually forced to resign over the issue, has repeatedly insisted the kiss on Hermoso's lips after Spain won the World Cup on August 20 was "a consensual peck".&nbsp;

Hermoso has made clear it was not consensual and filed suit in September. Rubiales is currently subject to a restraining order banning him from being within 200 metres of her.

Under Spanish law, a non-consensual kiss can be considered sexual assault, a criminal category that groups all types of sexual violence, with penalties for such a kiss ranging from a fine to four years in prison.

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The 46-year-old Rubiales is also accused of "coercion" for allegedly pressuring Hermoso to justify his actions, broadcast live round the world.

The kiss provoked widespread outrage and prompted his suspension by world football governing body FIFA.

He appeared in court on September 15 and in October, the judge quizzed three others over allegations they also pressured Hermoso: former women's coach Jorge Vilda, men's team director Albert Luque and RFEF marketing chief Ruben Rivera.

Numerous other witnesses have testified in court over the pressure faced by Hermoso, among them two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas along with two other Spanish teammates.&nbsp;

Spanish World Cup winning star Jenni Hermoso was testifying before a judge Tuesday about disgraced former Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales kissing her at the Women's World Cup trophy ceremony.

Spanish World Cup winning star Jenni Hermoso was testifying before a judge Tuesday about disgraced former Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales kissing her at the Women's World Cup trophy ceremony. The 33-year-old arrived at the Audiencia Nacional, Spain's main criminal court, shortly before 10:00 am (0900 GMT) wearing a long grey overcoat. Smiling, she greeted the press outside the Madrid courthouse without making any remarks before going in to testify before Judge Francisco de Jorge, who is investigating Rubiales on allegations of sexual assault and coercion. The then RFEF football federation chief, who was eventually forced to resign over the issue, has repeatedly insisted the kiss on Hermoso's lips after Spain won the World Cup on August 20 was "a consensual peck". Hermoso has made clear it was not consensual and filed suit in September. Rubiales is currently subject to a restraining order banning him from being within 200 metres of her. Under Spanish law, a non-consensual kiss can be considered sexual assault, a criminal category that groups all types of sexual violence, with penalties for such a kiss ranging from a fine to four years in prison. ALSO READ | WATCH: David Warner asks for missing Baggy Green to be returned ahead of farewell Sydney Test The 46-year-old Rubiales is also accused of "coercion" for allegedly pressuring Hermoso to justify his actions, broadcast live round the world. The kiss provoked widespread outrage and prompted his suspension by world football governing body FIFA. He appeared in court on September 15 and in October, the judge quizzed three others over allegations they also pressured Hermoso: former women's coach Jorge Vilda, men's team director Albert Luque and RFEF marketing chief Ruben Rivera. Numerous other witnesses have testified in court over the pressure faced by Hermoso, among them two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas along with two other Spanish teammates.

Football: Spanish star Jenni Hermoso testifies about Luis Rubiales’ World Cup kiss

Arsenal's Premier League title challenge suffered another blow in a 2-1 defeat at Fulham on Sunday, as Tottenham beat Bournemouth 3-1 to close in on their north London rivals. The Gunners' high hopes of a first league title in 20 years have been rocked by two damaging defeats in four days. Mikel Arteta was looking for a response after losing 2-0 at home to West Ham on Thursday but was left angered by what he described as his side's "worst performance of the season".

Arsenal remain in fourth, two points behind leaders Liverpool and level on 40 points with Manchester City, but having played a game more than both their title rivals. "If we play like today we will be nowhere near. Today was a really difficult day to swallow," said Arteta on his side's title aspirations. "It's a really sad day today because we didn't deserve to win the game."

Arsenal had started brightly at Craven Cottage as Bukayo Saka pounced to tap home his first goal in six games after Bernd Leno parried Gabriel Martinelli's initial effort. But the visitors failed to build on their early advantage and Fulham hit back to snap a three-game losing run in the Premier League without even scoring a goal.

Raul Jimenez was badly missed during his three-game ban for a red card at Newcastle and the Mexican kickstarted the Fulham fightback with his fourth goal in as many games. Former Arsenal winger Willian sent Tom Cairney free down the left and his dangerous low cross was swept home by Jimenez at the back post.

Fulham were the better side in the second half and they got their reward just before the hour mark. Arsenal failed to clear a corner and the ball broke kindly for Bobby De Cordova-Reid to smash home from close range.

Only a fine save from David Raya to deny Cairney and the crossbar from Andreas Pereira's free-kick prevented Arsenal from suffering further punishment in the pouring rain in west London.

But enough damage may have been done to their title chances over the past week.

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<h2>- Son's parting gift -</h2>

Arteta's men could even be outside the top four by the time they are next in league action in three weeks' time as Tottenham closed to within a point of the Champions League places. Ange Postecoglou's men shrugged off a mounting injury crisis to inflict Bournemouth's first defeat in eight games.

Fifth-placed Spurs are just three points off the top with the table tantalisingly poised heading into 2024. "We're three points off the top so if that is the difference between having a great season and where we are, I'll take it," said Postecoglou. "When you're trying to build something you will undoubtedly come up against some challenges. I am seeing progress."

Pape Sarr's precise finish into the bottom corner opened the scoring after just nine minutes. But the Senegalese midfielder left the field in tears midway through the first half with an injury that puts his participation in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in doubt.

Bournemouth will feel they should have been level before the break as the in-form Dominic Solanke hit the bar amid a flurry of chances. Instead, the visitors were picked off in the second half.

Son Heung-min is also set to depart for a few weeks to lead South Korea at the Asian Cup. The Spurs captain signed off in style with a thumping finish from a narrow angle before Richarlison made it 3-0. Alex Scott pulled a goal back six minutes from time, but it was too little, too late for the Cherries, who remain in 12th.

Arsenal's Premier League title challenge suffered another blow in a 2-1 defeat at Fulham on Sunday, as Tottenham beat Bournemouth 3-1 to close in on their north London rivals.

Arsenal's Premier League title challenge suffered another blow in a 2-1 defeat at Fulham on Sunday, as Tottenham beat Bournemouth 3-1 to close in on their north London rivals. The Gunners' high hopes of a first league title in 20 years have been rocked by two damaging defeats in four days. Mikel Arteta was looking for a response after losing 2-0 at home to West Ham on Thursday but was left angered by what he described as his side's "worst performance of the season". Arsenal remain in fourth, two points behind leaders Liverpool and level on 40 points with Manchester City, but having played a game more than both their title rivals. "If we play like today we will be nowhere near. Today was a really difficult day to swallow," said Arteta on his side's title aspirations. "It's a really sad day today because we didn't deserve to win the game." Arsenal had started brightly at Craven Cottage as Bukayo Saka pounced to tap home his first goal in six games after Bernd Leno parried Gabriel Martinelli's initial effort. But the visitors failed to build on their early advantage and Fulham hit back to snap a three-game losing run in the Premier League without even scoring a goal. Raul Jimenez was badly missed during his three-game ban for a red card at Newcastle and the Mexican kickstarted the Fulham fightback with his fourth goal in as many games. Former Arsenal winger Willian sent Tom Cairney free down the left and his dangerous low cross was swept home by Jimenez at the back post. Fulham were the better side in the second half and they got their reward just before the hour mark. Arsenal failed to clear a corner and the ball broke kindly for Bobby De Cordova-Reid to smash home from close range. Only a fine save from David Raya to deny Cairney and the crossbar from Andreas Pereira's free-kick prevented Arsenal from suffering further punishment in the pouring rain in west London. But enough damage may have been done to their title chances over the past week. Also read: Argentina to retire Lionel Messi’s famous Number 10 jersey post his retirement: Official - Son's parting gift - Arteta's men could even be outside the top four by the time they are next in league action in three weeks' time as Tottenham closed to within a point of the Champions League places. Ange Postecoglou's men shrugged off a mounting injury crisis to inflict Bournemouth's first defeat in eight games. Fifth-placed Spurs are just three points off the top with the table tantalisingly poised heading into 2024. "We're three points off the top so if that is the difference between having a great season and where we are, I'll take it," said Postecoglou. "When you're trying to build something you will undoubtedly come up against some challenges. I am seeing progress." Pape Sarr's precise finish into the bottom corner opened the scoring after just nine minutes. But the Senegalese midfielder left the field in tears midway through the first half with an injury that puts his participation in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in doubt. Bournemouth will feel they should have been level before the break as the in-form Dominic Solanke hit the bar amid a flurry of chances. Instead, the visitors were picked off in the second half. Son Heung-min is also set to depart for a few weeks to lead South Korea at the Asian Cup. The Spurs captain signed off in style with a thumping finish from a narrow angle before Richarlison made it 3-0. Alex Scott pulled a goal back six minutes from time, but it was too little, too late for the Cherries, who remain in 12th.

Premier League: Arsenal falter once more at Fulham, Spurs close on top four

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah is the leading name in Egypt's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations released by the record seven-time titleholder's Portuguese manager Rui Vitoria on Saturday.

Salah will be joined in attack by Al-Ahly forward Mahmoud &nbsp;Kahraba.

But out of the running for the January 13-February 11 competition in the Ivory Coast are Abdallah Said, of Egyptian club Pyramids, Mahmoud Hamdy from Zamalek, and Al Ahly duo Hussein&nbsp;El&nbsp;Shahat and Mohamed Magdy.

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Egypt were beaten by Senegal in the last Cup of Nations final in 2021 and their last triumph dates back to 2010, so Vitoria was cautious about his side's prospects.

"We will treat each game as a final," he said of his team who are drawn in Group B with Mozambique, Ghana and Cape Verde.

Egypt squad

Goalkeepers: Mohamed Elshenawy (Al Ahly), Ahmed El-Shenawy (Pyramids), Mohamed Abou Gabal (National Bank of Egypt), Mohamed Sobhi (Zamalek)&nbsp;

Defenders: Ahmed Hegazy (Al-Ittihad), Mohamed Abdelmonemem (Al Ahly), Mohamed Hany (Al Ahly), Ali Gabr, Osama Galal, Ahmed Samy, Mohamed Hamdy Sharaf (all Pyramids), Omar Kamal Abdelwahed (Futur), Ahmed Fatouh (Zamalek)&nbsp;

Midfielders: Hamdi Fathi (Al-Wakrah/QAT), Mohamed Elneny (Arsenal/ENG), Marwan Attia, Emam Ashour, Ahmed Nabil Koka (Al Ahly), Ahmed Sayed "Zizou" (Zamalek), Mahmoud Hamada (Al-Masry)&nbsp;

Forwards: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool/ENG), Mostafa Fathi (Pyramids), Mahmoud "Trezeguet" Hassan (Trabzonspor/TUR), Omar Marmoush (Eintracht Frankfurt/GER), Mostafa Mohamed (Nantes/FRA), Mahmoud Abdel Moneim "Kahraba" (Al Ahly), Ahmed Hassan "Kuka" (Bendikspor/TUR)

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah is the leading name in Egypt's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations released by the record seven-time titleholder's Portuguese manager Rui Vitoria on Saturday.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah is the leading name in Egypt's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations released by the record seven-time titleholder's Portuguese manager Rui Vitoria on Saturday. Salah will be joined in attack by Al-Ahly forward Mahmoud Kahraba. But out of the running for the January 13-February 11 competition in the Ivory Coast are Abdallah Said, of Egyptian club Pyramids, Mahmoud Hamdy from Zamalek, and Al Ahly duo Hussein El Shahat and Mohamed Magdy. Also Read: Real Madrid set mid-January deadline for Kylian Mbappe switch to Spanish giants Egypt were beaten by Senegal in the last Cup of Nations final in 2021 and their last triumph dates back to 2010, so Vitoria was cautious about his side's prospects. "We will treat each game as a final," he said of his team who are drawn in Group B with Mozambique, Ghana and Cape Verde. Egypt squad Goalkeepers: Mohamed Elshenawy (Al Ahly), Ahmed El-Shenawy (Pyramids), Mohamed Abou Gabal (National Bank of Egypt), Mohamed Sobhi (Zamalek) Defenders: Ahmed Hegazy (Al-Ittihad), Mohamed Abdelmonemem (Al Ahly), Mohamed Hany (Al Ahly), Ali Gabr, Osama Galal, Ahmed Samy, Mohamed Hamdy Sharaf (all Pyramids), Omar Kamal Abdelwahed (Futur), Ahmed Fatouh (Zamalek) Midfielders: Hamdi Fathi (Al-Wakrah/QAT), Mohamed Elneny (Arsenal/ENG), Marwan Attia, Emam Ashour, Ahmed Nabil Koka (Al Ahly), Ahmed Sayed "Zizou" (Zamalek), Mahmoud Hamada (Al-Masry) Forwards: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool/ENG), Mostafa Fathi (Pyramids), Mahmoud "Trezeguet" Hassan (Trabzonspor/TUR), Omar Marmoush (Eintracht Frankfurt/GER), Mostafa Mohamed (Nantes/FRA), Mahmoud Abdel Moneim "Kahraba" (Al Ahly), Ahmed Hassan "Kuka" (Bendikspor/TUR)

Liverpool's Mohamed Salah highlights Egypt's squad for Africa Cup of Nations

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