Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has come up with an amusing analogy over the ongoing controversy involving the Virtual Assistant Referee (VAR). Speaking ahead of his side's Premier League encounter against Burnley, Pochettino said he "trusts in the car but it is the driver that is the problem", referring to the VAR officials and the technology.&nbsp;

After Liverpool were wrongly denied a goal against Tottenham Hotspur (one of Pochettino's previous clubs), a discourse has started on the efficiency of VAR and whether it is spoiling the modern game.&nbsp;

"I trust in the VAR and how we manage the VAR. I trust in the car but the driver? That is the problem," said Pochettino.&nbsp;

The Italian manager suggested that the technology be simplified by returning the power to on-ground referees.&nbsp;

"For me, it is about simplifying the situation. The most important is to return to giving [more] power to the referee. I think one step back may make things easier and more clear. To accept when it’s a foul because sometimes when it’s live the perception is different and to trust in the referee's decision."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-demands-replay-of-liverpool-tottenham-match-after-var-chaos-642603">Jurgen Klopp demands replay of Liverpool-Tottenham match after VAR chaos</a>

Expounding on his solution, the Chelsea boss added: "Trust in the referee because at the moment we are not happy with VAR, we are not happy with the people that manage the VAR but the worse is we are not happy with the referee and that is the problem."

<h2>Postecoglou accepts Liverpool denied a goal</h2>

Pochettino's statement came hours after Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou accepted Liverpool were denied a "legitimate goal" but said it was "clear it wasn't an integrity issue" which caused the error.

"Whatever I say is maybe going to be seen through the prism that we were the beneficiaries of the mistake. The facts are there was a legitimate goal that Liverpool scored which wasn't given," said the Aussie manager.&nbsp;

"My view is that we want a faultless system - that will just never exist unless we turn our game into an event which goes on for four hours and we explain every decision."

Notably, the VAR audio released on Tuesday (October 3) by Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) revealed that VAR Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook had the opportunity to correct their mistake after the VAR replay operator reminded them they had taken the wrong call.&nbsp;

However, instead of using the rules as a framework and applying common sense, England displayed rigidity and said he could not do anything, even though the game had been in the next phase for barely 15 seconds.

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Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has come up with an amusing analogy over the ongoing controversy involving the Virtual Assistant Referee (VAR). Speaking ahead of his side's Premier League encounter against Burnley, Pochettino said he "trusts in the car but it is the driver that is the problem", referring to the VAR officials and the technology.

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has come up with an amusing analogy over the ongoing controversy involving the Virtual Assistant Referee (VAR). Speaking ahead of his side's Premier League encounter against Burnley, Pochettino said he "trusts in the car but it is the driver that is the problem", referring to the VAR officials and the technology. After Liverpool were wrongly denied a goal against Tottenham Hotspur (one of Pochettino's previous clubs), a discourse has started on the efficiency of VAR and whether it is spoiling the modern game. "I trust in the VAR and how we manage the VAR. I trust in the car but the driver? That is the problem," said Pochettino. The Italian manager suggested that the technology be simplified by returning the power to on-ground referees. "For me, it is about simplifying the situation. The most important is to return to giving [more] power to the referee. I think one step back may make things easier and more clear. To accept when it’s a foul because sometimes when it’s live the perception is different and to trust in the referee's decision." Also read | Jurgen Klopp demands replay of Liverpool-Tottenham match after VAR chaos Expounding on his solution, the Chelsea boss added: "Trust in the referee because at the moment we are not happy with VAR, we are not happy with the people that manage the VAR but the worse is we are not happy with the referee and that is the problem." Postecoglou accepts Liverpool denied a goal Pochettino's statement came hours after Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou accepted Liverpool were denied a "legitimate goal" but said it was "clear it wasn't an integrity issue" which caused the error. "Whatever I say is maybe going to be seen through the prism that we were the beneficiaries of the mistake. The facts are there was a legitimate goal that Liverpool scored which wasn't given," said the Aussie manager. "My view is that we want a faultless system - that will just never exist unless we turn our game into an event which goes on for four hours and we explain every decision." Notably, the VAR audio released on Tuesday (October 3) by Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) revealed that VAR Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook had the opportunity to correct their mistake after the VAR replay operator reminded them they had taken the wrong call. However, instead of using the rules as a framework and applying common sense, England displayed rigidity and said he could not do anything, even though the game had been in the next phase for barely 15 seconds. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'I trust the car but driver is the problem': Chelsea boss Pochettino's amusing analogy over VAR controversy

Barcelona’s legend and football’s greatest son, Lionel Messi, could return to his former club in January 2024, reports in Spanish media claim. The Inter-Miami superstar could play for Barcelona but on loan if his current club fails to qualify for the Eastern Conference playoffs. If there is any truth to what is being said, chances of him playing in front of Camp Nou in a Barca jersey for a final time could become a reality.

Per the Spanish outlet AS, the World Cup winner with Argentina could head back to Barcelona on loan for a proper send-off at the club where he had spent 17 years.&nbsp;

Following his departure from Barcelona in 2021, Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint Germain (PSG) on a two-year deal, where he struggled to mingle with his teammates and bosses.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lengthy-ban-looms-on-paul-pogba-as-b-sample-confirms-positive-drugs-test-643380">Lengthy ban looms on Paul Pogba as B sample confirms positive drugs test</a>

Following his unsanctioned visit to Saudi Arabia for a commercial commitment in April, Messi had a fallout with the top brass and decided against signing the new contract.&nbsp;

During that time, Messi admitted he had discussions with Barcelona over a stunning return, but the deal couldn’t materialise as Messi wasn’t sure of Barca’s financial structure, which was the main reason behind his departure in the first place.

In a surprising turn of events, Messi later joined David Beckham’s Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer. His move to MLS made him leave Europe, and with his on-field rival Cristiano Ronaldo also joining the Saudi Pro League in the winter transfer window in January, their rivalry was said to be over for good.&nbsp;

<h2>Messi’s maiden MLS season could end soon</h2>

Messi’s Inter Miami is five points adrift of playoffs with only three matches left. Although they have a game in hand in comparison to other teams, if they fail to qualify with Messi sidelined with injury (having missed the last four of the five matches), his maiden season could get over by October 21 at the earliest.

Meanwhile, despite suffering a leg injury during the previous international break, Messi is named in Argentina’s next two WC qualifying matches.

Moreover, Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas even hinted that he wouldn't stand in Messi's way if he wished to complete his dream return to the club for whom he played 778 matches, scoring 672 goals and assisting 303 times.&nbsp;

It was while playing for Barcelona that Messi won a record seven Ballon d’Or.&nbsp;

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Barcelona’s legend and football’s greatest son, Lionel Messi, could return to his former club in January 2024, reports in Spanish media claim. The Inter-Miami superstar could play for Barcelona but on loan if his current club fails to qualify for the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Barcelona’s legend and football’s greatest son, Lionel Messi, could return to his former club in January 2024, reports in Spanish media claim. The Inter-Miami superstar could play for Barcelona but on loan if his current club fails to qualify for the Eastern Conference playoffs. If there is any truth to what is being said, chances of him playing in front of Camp Nou in a Barca jersey for a final time could become a reality. Per the Spanish outlet AS, the World Cup winner with Argentina could head back to Barcelona on loan for a proper send-off at the club where he had spent 17 years. Following his departure from Barcelona in 2021, Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint Germain (PSG) on a two-year deal, where he struggled to mingle with his teammates and bosses. ALSO READ: Lengthy ban looms on Paul Pogba as B sample confirms positive drugs test Following his unsanctioned visit to Saudi Arabia for a commercial commitment in April, Messi had a fallout with the top brass and decided against signing the new contract. During that time, Messi admitted he had discussions with Barcelona over a stunning return, but the deal couldn’t materialise as Messi wasn’t sure of Barca’s financial structure, which was the main reason behind his departure in the first place. In a surprising turn of events, Messi later joined David Beckham’s Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer. His move to MLS made him leave Europe, and with his on-field rival Cristiano Ronaldo also joining the Saudi Pro League in the winter transfer window in January, their rivalry was said to be over for good. Messi’s maiden MLS season could end soon Messi’s Inter Miami is five points adrift of playoffs with only three matches left. Although they have a game in hand in comparison to other teams, if they fail to qualify with Messi sidelined with injury (having missed the last four of the five matches), his maiden season could get over by October 21 at the earliest. Meanwhile, despite suffering a leg injury during the previous international break, Messi is named in Argentina’s next two WC qualifying matches. Moreover, Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas even hinted that he wouldn't stand in Messi's way if he wished to complete his dream return to the club for whom he played 778 matches, scoring 672 goals and assisting 303 times. It was while playing for Barcelona that Messi won a record seven Ballon d’Or. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Lionel Messi’s remarriage with Barcelona still a possibility: Reports

French footballer Paul Pogba is staring at a four-year ban after counter-analysis carried out on the failed drug test came back positive for testosterone as well, according to a Reuters report. &nbsp;

The Juventus player first tested positive for elevated levels of testosterone, following a Serie A match against Udinese in August.&nbsp;

Last month, Italy's National Antidoping Tribunal (NADO) announced the failed drug test report, which led to a provisional suspension against the midfielder.&nbsp;

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🚨 BREAKING: Paul Pogba has tested doping positive also to backup sample today. 
 
🇫🇷 Juventus will now decide how to proceed with his contract as Pogba faces risk of long-term ban. <a href="https://t.co/SzLedWaTey">pic.twitter.com/SzLedWaTey</a>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1710274757847822640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"The National Antidoping Tribunal informs that, in acceptance of the instance proposed by the National Antidoping Prosecutor, it has provided for the provisional suspension of the athlete Paul Labile Pogba," NADO was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.

At the time, the anti-doping agency said the test concerns the 'A' sample, and if the 'B' sample also returns positive for testosterone, Pogba could face a four-year ban. Friday's result was related to the B sample.&nbsp;

Notably, Pogba was an unused substitute during the Udinese match when the adulterated sample was collected.&nbsp;

In the aftermath, Juventus released a statement, acknowledging the failed test and said they were considering the next steps.&nbsp; 
 
"The club reserves the right to consider the next procedural steps," read the statement.

<h2>Pogba's rise and fall&nbsp;</h2>

Once regarded as the next big thing in world football, Pogba never managed to hit the highs of the 2018 World Cup or his first stint with Juventus. His tumultuous staggered stay at Manchester United was plagued with injuries, controversies and fallout with colleagues and coaches.&nbsp;

Pogba's arrival at Juventus last year was seen as the start of a new chapter but injuries once again hindered his progress. Having sat out the entire season, the doping violation could effectively mean curtains for Pogba's career who turned 30 earlier this year. &nbsp;

During an interview last month, Pogba said he was almost driven to walk away from football after allegedly being blackmailed by an organised crime gang.

"When there is money you have to be careful. Money changes people. It can break up a family. It can create a war," said Pogba.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogba-shockingly-admits-to-using-witchcraft-but-denies-it-was-to-cast-a-spell-on-kylian-mbappe-513407">Paul Pogba shockingly admits to using witchcraft but denies it was to cast a spell on Kylian Mbappe</a>

"Sometimes I was just by myself thinking: 'I don't want to have money anymore. I just don't want to play anymore. I just want to be with normal people, so they will love me for me - not for the fame, not for the money.' Sometimes it's tough. This life, you have to go through it. It will only make me stronger," he added.

Notably, Pogba's brother Mathias was arrested in September last year on suspicion of involvement in the alleged extortion plot.

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French footballer Paul Pogba is staring at a four-year ban after counter-analysis carried out on the failed drug test came back positive for testosterone as well, according to a Reuters report.

French footballer Paul Pogba is staring at a four-year ban after counter-analysis carried out on the failed drug test came back positive for testosterone as well, according to a Reuters report. The Juventus player first tested positive for elevated levels of testosterone, following a Serie A match against Udinese in August. Last month, Italy's National Antidoping Tribunal (NADO) announced the failed drug test report, which led to a provisional suspension against the midfielder. 🚨 BREAKING: Paul Pogba has tested doping positive also to backup sample today. 🇫🇷 Juventus will now decide how to proceed with his contract as Pogba faces risk of long-term ban. pic.twitter.com/SzLedWaTey — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 6, 2023 × "The National Antidoping Tribunal informs that, in acceptance of the instance proposed by the National Antidoping Prosecutor, it has provided for the provisional suspension of the athlete Paul Labile Pogba," NADO was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. At the time, the anti-doping agency said the test concerns the 'A' sample, and if the 'B' sample also returns positive for testosterone, Pogba could face a four-year ban. Friday's result was related to the B sample. Notably, Pogba was an unused substitute during the Udinese match when the adulterated sample was collected. In the aftermath, Juventus released a statement, acknowledging the failed test and said they were considering the next steps. "The club reserves the right to consider the next procedural steps," read the statement. Pogba's rise and fall Once regarded as the next big thing in world football, Pogba never managed to hit the highs of the 2018 World Cup or his first stint with Juventus. His tumultuous staggered stay at Manchester United was plagued with injuries, controversies and fallout with colleagues and coaches. Pogba's arrival at Juventus last year was seen as the start of a new chapter but injuries once again hindered his progress. Having sat out the entire season, the doping violation could effectively mean curtains for Pogba's career who turned 30 earlier this year. During an interview last month, Pogba said he was almost driven to walk away from football after allegedly being blackmailed by an organised crime gang. "When there is money you have to be careful. Money changes people. It can break up a family. It can create a war," said Pogba. Also read | Paul Pogba shockingly admits to using witchcraft but denies it was to cast a spell on Kylian Mbappe "Sometimes I was just by myself thinking: 'I don't want to have money anymore. I just don't want to play anymore. I just want to be with normal people, so they will love me for me - not for the fame, not for the money.' Sometimes it's tough. This life, you have to go through it. It will only make me stronger," he added. Notably, Pogba's brother Mathias was arrested in September last year on suspicion of involvement in the alleged extortion plot. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Lengthy ban looms on Paul Pogba as B sample confirms positive drugs test

Saudi Arabia is bidding to host the 2034 World Cup. The announcement came after FIFA named a few countries as hosts of the 2030 World Cup.

Will Saudi Arabia bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup?

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has called for a replay of the match that his team lost 2-1 against Tottenham Hotspur&nbsp;last weekend, owing to poor refereeing decisions involving the VAR (Virtual Assistant Referee).&nbsp;

Speaking ahead of his side's Europa League tie against Union Saint-Gilloise, Klopp said: “I think the only outcome for the Tottenham-Liverpool game should be a replay.”

The German manager, however, conceded that it was highly unlikely that such an outcome would come to fruition.&nbsp;

“It probably won’t happen. I think it is so unprecedented; it didn’t happen before.”

Klopp's demand comes a day after the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) released the audio of the incident where Luis Diaz's goal was wrongfully chalked out by the VAR.&nbsp;

Klopp said the release of the audio should not mean the end of the matter, whilst accepting that it was an 'obvious mistake'.&nbsp;

“The audio didn’t change it at all. It is an obvious mistake. I think there should be solutions for that. I think the outcome should be a replay. The argument against that would be it opens the gates...I’m used to wrong and difficult decisions but something like this never happened and so that is why I think a replay is the right thing to do.”

Quizzed if the club had formally requested the Premier League for a replay, Klopp said: “At this stage, we are still going through the information we have."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/icc-world-cup-2023-1986-wc-winning-coach-dav-whatmore-picks-game-changers-for-wc-642233">Watch |&nbsp;ICC World Cup 2023: 1996 WC-winning coach Dav Whatmore picks game-changers for WC</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>VAR audio released</h2>

Notably, the audio released on Tuesday (October 3) revealed that VAR Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook had the opportunity to correct their mistake after the VAR replay operator reminded them they had taken the wrong call.&nbsp;

However, instead of using the rules as a framework and applying common sense, England displayed rigidity and said he could not do anything, even though the game had been in the next phase for barely 15 seconds.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-blast-pgmol-over-unfair-var-call-release-hard-hit-statement-after-spurs-defeat-641656" target="_blank">Also read | Premier League: Liverpool blast PGMOL over 'unfair' VAR call, release strong statement after Spurs defeat</a>&nbsp;

While Liverpool officials go through the recording, PGMOL has axed Darren England and Dan Cook for a successive week, following their calamitous performance. Both had missed last week's Premier League fixtures and will continue to sit on the sidelines over the weekend as well.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has called for a replay of the match that his team lost 2-1 against Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, owing to poor refereeing decisions involving the VAR (Virtual Assistant Referee).

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has called for a replay of the match that his team lost 2-1 against Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, owing to poor refereeing decisions involving the VAR (Virtual Assistant Referee). Speaking ahead of his side's Europa League tie against Union Saint-Gilloise, Klopp said: “I think the only outcome for the Tottenham-Liverpool game should be a replay.” The German manager, however, conceded that it was highly unlikely that such an outcome would come to fruition. “It probably won’t happen. I think it is so unprecedented; it didn’t happen before.” Klopp's demand comes a day after the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) released the audio of the incident where Luis Diaz's goal was wrongfully chalked out by the VAR. Klopp said the release of the audio should not mean the end of the matter, whilst accepting that it was an 'obvious mistake'. “The audio didn’t change it at all. It is an obvious mistake. I think there should be solutions for that. I think the outcome should be a replay. The argument against that would be it opens the gates...I’m used to wrong and difficult decisions but something like this never happened and so that is why I think a replay is the right thing to do.” Quizzed if the club had formally requested the Premier League for a replay, Klopp said: “At this stage, we are still going through the information we have." Watch | ICC World Cup 2023: 1996 WC-winning coach Dav Whatmore picks game-changers for WC × VAR audio released Notably, the audio released on Tuesday (October 3) revealed that VAR Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook had the opportunity to correct their mistake after the VAR replay operator reminded them they had taken the wrong call. However, instead of using the rules as a framework and applying common sense, England displayed rigidity and said he could not do anything, even though the game had been in the next phase for barely 15 seconds. Also read | Premier League: Liverpool blast PGMOL over 'unfair' VAR call, release strong statement after Spurs defeat While Liverpool officials go through the recording, PGMOL has axed Darren England and Dan Cook for a successive week, following their calamitous performance. Both had missed last week's Premier League fixtures and will continue to sit on the sidelines over the weekend as well. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Jurgen Klopp demands replay of Liverpool-Tottenham match after VAR chaos

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag believes the Red Devils will work their way out of an early season crisis after facing questions over whether he fears losing his job.

United have lost six of their last nine matches after they lost 3-2 at home by Galatasaray on Tuesday.

The English giants have lost their opening two games of the Champions League group stage for the first time.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/var-audio-released-after-blunder-over-liverpool-forward-diazs-disallowed-goal-642302">VAR audio released after blunder over Liverpool forward Diaz's disallowed goal</a>

United are also off to their worst ever start to a Premier League season after losing four of their opening seven matches.

Ten Hag enjoyed a successful first season at Old Trafford, leading the club back into the Champions League by finishing third in the Premier League and ending a six-year trophy drought by lifting the League Cup.

"Last season went brilliant, terrific, more than we could expect," said the former Ajax boss.&nbsp;

"Also when we went into this project we knew there would be gaps. In this moment we are in a very difficult period as everyone can see but we (will) come out together.

"We are fighting together, we stick together, we are behind each other. Me, the directors, the team all together we will fight. This is not us. We know we have to do better and in togetherness we will come out (of this situation)."

Goalkeeper Andre Onana had another night to forget as his difficult start to life at United goes on.

He accepted responsibility for United's 4-3 defeat at Bayern Munich two weeks ago after a handling error led to the Germans' opening goal.

The Cameroonian was signed from Inter Milan for £47 million primarily for his ability to play the ball out from the back.

But Onana's slack pass straight to Dries Mertens proved the crucial point in the game as Casemiro dived in to bring the Galatasaray forward down and was shown a second yellow card on 77 minutes.

Mauro Icardi fired the resulting penalty wide, but made amends four minutes later by dinking the ball over Onana for the winner.

Onana was part of the Ajax side that reached the Champions League semi-finals in 2019 and helped Inter reach the final of the competition last season.

Ten Hag defended his player when asked if Onana should be dropped.

"Andre was in one semi-final of the Champions League and last season he was in the final of the Champions League, so yes he has the capabilities to be one of the best goalkeepers in the world.

"He's showed that and he will do. We have already seen in games his great capabilities and personality. When he makes mistakes, he will bounce back."

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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag believes the Red Devils will work their way out of an early season crisis after facing questions over whether he fears losing his job.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag believes the Red Devils will work their way out of an early season crisis after facing questions over whether he fears losing his job. United have lost six of their last nine matches after they lost 3-2 at home by Galatasaray on Tuesday. The English giants have lost their opening two games of the Champions League group stage for the first time. Also Read: VAR audio released after blunder over Liverpool forward Diaz's disallowed goal United are also off to their worst ever start to a Premier League season after losing four of their opening seven matches. Ten Hag enjoyed a successful first season at Old Trafford, leading the club back into the Champions League by finishing third in the Premier League and ending a six-year trophy drought by lifting the League Cup. "Last season went brilliant, terrific, more than we could expect," said the former Ajax boss. "Also when we went into this project we knew there would be gaps. In this moment we are in a very difficult period as everyone can see but we (will) come out together. "We are fighting together, we stick together, we are behind each other. Me, the directors, the team all together we will fight. This is not us. We know we have to do better and in togetherness we will come out (of this situation)." Goalkeeper Andre Onana had another night to forget as his difficult start to life at United goes on. He accepted responsibility for United's 4-3 defeat at Bayern Munich two weeks ago after a handling error led to the Germans' opening goal. The Cameroonian was signed from Inter Milan for £47 million primarily for his ability to play the ball out from the back. But Onana's slack pass straight to Dries Mertens proved the crucial point in the game as Casemiro dived in to bring the Galatasaray forward down and was shown a second yellow card on 77 minutes. Mauro Icardi fired the resulting penalty wide, but made amends four minutes later by dinking the ball over Onana for the winner. Onana was part of the Ajax side that reached the Champions League semi-finals in 2019 and helped Inter reach the final of the competition last season. Ten Hag defended his player when asked if Onana should be dropped. "Andre was in one semi-final of the Champions League and last season he was in the final of the Champions League, so yes he has the capabilities to be one of the best goalkeepers in the world. "He's showed that and he will do. We have already seen in games his great capabilities and personality. When he makes mistakes, he will bounce back." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Ten Hag urges Manchester United to stick together amid crisis

Three members of Spain's World Cup winning team, including 2021 Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, told a judge on Monday that teammate Jenni Hermoso had come under pressure after being forcibly kissed by former national federation president Luis Rubiales, according to legal sources.&nbsp;

Rubiales planted the kiss on Hermoso's lips after the World Cup final with the player claiming it was not consensual.&nbsp;

He resigned from his post last month after worldwide backlash against his actions.

Putellas, Irene Paredes and Misa Rodriguez confirmed that Rubiales' kiss on Hermoso was not consensual and that he and his entourage had then put pressure on the player after the act.&nbsp;

Barcelona players Putellas and Paredes were heard by video conference from the Catalan capital, while Real Madrid goalkeeper Rodriguez spoke in person at the Audiencia Nacional, Spain's main criminal court.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-want-to-set-new-benchmark-for-women-athletes-in-india-jyothi-yarraji-after-asian-games-success-641743">EXCLUSIVE | Want to set new benchmark for women athletes in India - Jyothi Yarraji after Asian Games success</a>

Rubiales, who has been charged with "sexual assault" as well as "coercion", has always maintained that the kiss was consensual.&nbsp;

He has already been banned by the judge from coming within 200 metres of Hermoso.

Jorge Vilda, who has been sacked as women's coach since the row blew up, and the federation's head of marketing Ruben Rivera are due in court on October 10 and men's coach Albert Luque on October 16.&nbsp;

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Three members of Spain's World Cup winning team, including 2021 Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, told a judge on Monday that teammate Jenni Hermoso had come under pressure after being forcibly kissed by former national federation president Luis Rubiales, according to legal sources.

Three members of Spain's World Cup winning team, including 2021 Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, told a judge on Monday that teammate Jenni Hermoso had come under pressure after being forcibly kissed by former national federation president Luis Rubiales, according to legal sources. Rubiales planted the kiss on Hermoso's lips after the World Cup final with the player claiming it was not consensual. He resigned from his post last month after worldwide backlash against his actions. Putellas, Irene Paredes and Misa Rodriguez confirmed that Rubiales' kiss on Hermoso was not consensual and that he and his entourage had then put pressure on the player after the act. Barcelona players Putellas and Paredes were heard by video conference from the Catalan capital, while Real Madrid goalkeeper Rodriguez spoke in person at the Audiencia Nacional, Spain's main criminal court. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Want to set new benchmark for women athletes in India - Jyothi Yarraji after Asian Games success Rubiales, who has been charged with "sexual assault" as well as "coercion", has always maintained that the kiss was consensual. He has already been banned by the judge from coming within 200 metres of Hermoso. Jorge Vilda, who has been sacked as women's coach since the row blew up, and the federation's head of marketing Ruben Rivera are due in court on October 10 and men's coach Albert Luque on October 16. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Three Spanish players confirm 'kiss' pressure on Jenni Hermoso

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe is considering changing his bid and offering to buy a minority stake in Manchester United, according to reports on Monday.

Ratcliffe, founder of chemicals giant INEOS, emerged as one of two leading candidates to purchase the 20-time English champions, along with Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani.

A lengthy takeover saga has followed, with numerous bids entered by both boyhood fan Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim, but no progress has been made over any potential change of ownership from the Glazer family, who announced in November they were open to selling the club.

United's valuation on the New York Stock Exchange plummeted last month after reports the Glazers may not sell.

It is now being reported that Ratcliffe could target a minority stake in the Premier League giants.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-want-to-set-new-benchmark-for-women-athletes-in-india-jyothi-yarraji-after-asian-games-success-641743">EXCLUSIVE | Want to set new benchmark for women athletes in India - Jyothi Yarraji after Asian Games success</a>

Sky News said Ratcliffe could seek a stake of about 25 per cent as part of a proposal to try to bring the drawn-out sale process to an end, having initially wanted to complete a majority takeover.

If the Glazers accepted this new reported offer, the American family would retain majority control of the club they bought in 2005.

The Glazers are deeply unpopular with United's supporters, who accuse the family of having saddled the club with debt and not investing enough.

Thousands of fans took part in an hour-long sit-in at Old Trafford after a 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest in August.

United have started the Premier League season poorly, losing four of their opening seven games to sit 10th in the table.

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British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe is considering changing his bid and offering to buy a minority stake in Manchester United, according to reports on Monday. Ratcliffe, founder of chemicals giant INEOS, emerged as one of two leading candidates to purchase the 20-time English champions, along with Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani.

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe is considering changing his bid and offering to buy a minority stake in Manchester United, according to reports on Monday. Ratcliffe, founder of chemicals giant INEOS, emerged as one of two leading candidates to purchase the 20-time English champions, along with Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani. A lengthy takeover saga has followed, with numerous bids entered by both boyhood fan Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim, but no progress has been made over any potential change of ownership from the Glazer family, who announced in November they were open to selling the club. United's valuation on the New York Stock Exchange plummeted last month after reports the Glazers may not sell. It is now being reported that Ratcliffe could target a minority stake in the Premier League giants. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Want to set new benchmark for women athletes in India - Jyothi Yarraji after Asian Games success Sky News said Ratcliffe could seek a stake of about 25 per cent as part of a proposal to try to bring the drawn-out sale process to an end, having initially wanted to complete a majority takeover. If the Glazers accepted this new reported offer, the American family would retain majority control of the club they bought in 2005. The Glazers are deeply unpopular with United's supporters, who accuse the family of having saddled the club with debt and not investing enough. Thousands of fans took part in an hour-long sit-in at Old Trafford after a 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest in August. United have started the Premier League season poorly, losing four of their opening seven games to sit 10th in the table. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe mulls Manchester United minority stake - reports

Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos's own goal handed his old enemy Barcelona a narrow 1-0 win over Sevilla on Friday in La Liga, taking the Catalans top of the table.

Veteran centre-back Ramos deflected Lamine Yamal's header into his own net in the 76th minute to break the deadlock in a tight clash.

The 37-year-old said this week he had planned a special goal celebration if he scored against Barca after his summer return to Spain from Paris Saint-Germain, but putting through his own net was not part of the plan.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tyson-fury-to-face-oleksandr-usyk-in-undisputed-heavyweight-title-fight-641055">Tyson Fury to face Oleksandr Usyk in undisputed heavyweight title fight</a>

"Ramos is a spectacular defender, today he had the misfortune of scoring an own goal but he had a good game," Barcelona coach Xavi told reporters.

"It was unlucky for him but for us it was good."

He continued: "Sergio grows in these atmospheres, it's an unfortunate goal, it hits him and bounces in."

Barcelona's victory helped the Catalans overtake Girona at the top of the table, with their neighbours hosting third-place Real Madrid on Saturday.&nbsp;

Xavi's side were leapfrogged by Girona and Madrid after they drew at Mallorca on Tuesday.

"Tomorrow I have a birthday party, I can't watch the game, imagine that. I'll follow it but I can't watch, it's a pity – may the best team win," said Xavi.

"The only thing that we can control was today, we feel good about it, we deserved more goals and we had a great game against a great team."

Before the game Sevilla caused a stir by announcing their directors would not attend the traditional lunch or sit in the presidential box in protest at Barcelona's involvement in the refereeing corruption scandal.

The Catalan club and some of their former directors were charged with bribery on Thursday.

Xavi started winger Raphinha in attacking midfield with Lamine Yamal on the flank, looking for more dynamism behind striker Robert Lewandowski.

Joao Felix crashed a shot off the crossbar after a fine run by Joao Cancelo as Barcelona made the early running, but Sevilla were sharp on the counter-attack.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen clawed away an effort from former Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic and a shot by Dodi Lukebakio, while Gavi superbly blocked with his chest to foil Lucas Ocampos.

<h2>- Unlikely source -</h2>

Xavi's experiment with Raphinha was cut short when the Brazilian went down injured and he was replaced by La Masia graduate Fermin Lopez, who rescued Barcelona at Mallorca with a late strike.

The midfielder was quickly teed up by 16-year-old starlet Yamal but could only manage a soft shot, his one disappointing moment on an otherwise impressive outing.

Gavi's shot was deflected narrowly over as Barcelona turned the screw in search of the opening goal.

Eventually it came, from an unlikely source, with Ramos inadvertently knocking Yamal's header back into the danger area past Orjan Nyland.

Ramos's touches has been greeted by whistles by Barcelona fans for his history in the Spanish capital, which turned to ironic cheers as his own goal was replayed on the big screen at the Olympic Stadium.

At the age of nine Yamal had stood beside Ramos as a Barcelona mascot in 2016 when the centre-back captained Real Madrid in a Clasico.

Until his own goal, Ramos had played well and helped keep Barcelona at bay.

The defender made a fine block to foil Lewandowski in stoppage time, but by then the damage was done.

"In that move Ramos was defending well, he had bad luck," said Sevilla coach Jose Luis Mendilibar.

"The ball hit him and he didn't have time to react how he wanted."

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Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos's own goal handed his old enemy Barcelona a narrow 1-0 win over Sevilla on Friday in La Liga, taking the Catalans top of the table.

Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos's own goal handed his old enemy Barcelona a narrow 1-0 win over Sevilla on Friday in La Liga, taking the Catalans top of the table. Veteran centre-back Ramos deflected Lamine Yamal's header into his own net in the 76th minute to break the deadlock in a tight clash. The 37-year-old said this week he had planned a special goal celebration if he scored against Barca after his summer return to Spain from Paris Saint-Germain, but putting through his own net was not part of the plan. Also Read: Tyson Fury to face Oleksandr Usyk in undisputed heavyweight title fight "Ramos is a spectacular defender, today he had the misfortune of scoring an own goal but he had a good game," Barcelona coach Xavi told reporters. "It was unlucky for him but for us it was good." He continued: "Sergio grows in these atmospheres, it's an unfortunate goal, it hits him and bounces in." Barcelona's victory helped the Catalans overtake Girona at the top of the table, with their neighbours hosting third-place Real Madrid on Saturday. Xavi's side were leapfrogged by Girona and Madrid after they drew at Mallorca on Tuesday. "Tomorrow I have a birthday party, I can't watch the game, imagine that. I'll follow it but I can't watch, it's a pity – may the best team win," said Xavi. "The only thing that we can control was today, we feel good about it, we deserved more goals and we had a great game against a great team." Before the game Sevilla caused a stir by announcing their directors would not attend the traditional lunch or sit in the presidential box in protest at Barcelona's involvement in the refereeing corruption scandal. The Catalan club and some of their former directors were charged with bribery on Thursday. Xavi started winger Raphinha in attacking midfield with Lamine Yamal on the flank, looking for more dynamism behind striker Robert Lewandowski. Joao Felix crashed a shot off the crossbar after a fine run by Joao Cancelo as Barcelona made the early running, but Sevilla were sharp on the counter-attack. Marc-Andre ter Stegen clawed away an effort from former Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic and a shot by Dodi Lukebakio, while Gavi superbly blocked with his chest to foil Lucas Ocampos. - Unlikely source - Xavi's experiment with Raphinha was cut short when the Brazilian went down injured and he was replaced by La Masia graduate Fermin Lopez, who rescued Barcelona at Mallorca with a late strike. The midfielder was quickly teed up by 16-year-old starlet Yamal but could only manage a soft shot, his one disappointing moment on an otherwise impressive outing. Gavi's shot was deflected narrowly over as Barcelona turned the screw in search of the opening goal. Eventually it came, from an unlikely source, with Ramos inadvertently knocking Yamal's header back into the danger area past Orjan Nyland. Ramos's touches has been greeted by whistles by Barcelona fans for his history in the Spanish capital, which turned to ironic cheers as his own goal was replayed on the big screen at the Olympic Stadium. At the age of nine Yamal had stood beside Ramos as a Barcelona mascot in 2016 when the centre-back captained Real Madrid in a Clasico. Until his own goal, Ramos had played well and helped keep Barcelona at bay. The defender made a fine block to foil Lewandowski in stoppage time, but by then the damage was done. "In that move Ramos was defending well, he had bad luck," said Sevilla coach Jose Luis Mendilibar. "The ball hit him and he didn't have time to react how he wanted." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

La Liga: Sergio Ramos 'own goal' gives Barcelona win over Sevilla

Napoli said on Thursday (Sep 28) the club never intended to offend their striker Victor Osimhen with mocking social media videos, but the Serie A champions stopped short of apologising to the Nigerian international player.

The Italian side posted a video on TikTok with a high pitched voice showing Osimhen missing a penalty in their 0-0 draw against Bologna on Sunday, which was later deleted.

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🇳🇬 This was the original video posted by Napoli about Victor Osimhen… and then deleted. 
 
⚠️ …player’s agent Calenda announced that Osimhen is considering to take legal action against Napoli. <a href="https://t.co/0PLunco9aD">pic.twitter.com/0PLunco9aD</a>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1706784057479118979?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Osimhen's agent Roberto Calenda later threatened legal action, while the 24-year-old player removed all images of himself in a Napoli shirt from his social media accounts.

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"To avoid any potential exploitation of the matter, Napoli would like to explicitly state that the club never intended to offend or make fun of Victor Osimhen, who is an asset to the club," read a statement on the team's official website.

"Over the course of the summer Napoli rejected all offers to sign the striker – firm proof of the club’s appreciation of him.

"On social media, and TikTok particularly, expressive language is used in a light-hearted and playful manner. In this case involving Victor there was no intention of mockery or derision.

"If Victor was in any way offended, this was not at all in the club's intentions."

Osimhen helped Napoli end their 33-year wait for a league title last season as he was Serie A's top scorer with 26 goals.

Despite the row, he played and scored in Napoli's 4-1 league win over Udinese on Wednesday to take his tally to four goals in seven games this season.

Champions Napoli are fifth in the league standings and will face Lecce on Saturday before hosting Real Madrid in the Champions League.

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Napoli said on Thursday (Sep 28) the club never intended to offend their striker Victor Osimhen with mocking social media videos, but the Serie A champions stopped short of apologising to the Nigerian international player.

Napoli said on Thursday (Sep 28) the club never intended to offend their striker Victor Osimhen with mocking social media videos, but the Serie A champions stopped short of apologising to the Nigerian international player. The Italian side posted a video on TikTok with a high pitched voice showing Osimhen missing a penalty in their 0-0 draw against Bologna on Sunday, which was later deleted. WATCH VIDEO - 🇳🇬 This was the original video posted by Napoli about Victor Osimhen… and then deleted. ⚠️ …player’s agent Calenda announced that Osimhen is considering to take legal action against Napoli. pic.twitter.com/0PLunco9aD — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 26, 2023 × Osimhen's agent Roberto Calenda later threatened legal action, while the 24-year-old player removed all images of himself in a Napoli shirt from his social media accounts. ALSO READ: FC Barcelona under investigation for suspected corruption in refereeing case "To avoid any potential exploitation of the matter, Napoli would like to explicitly state that the club never intended to offend or make fun of Victor Osimhen, who is an asset to the club," read a statement on the team's official website. "Over the course of the summer Napoli rejected all offers to sign the striker – firm proof of the club’s appreciation of him. "On social media, and TikTok particularly, expressive language is used in a light-hearted and playful manner. In this case involving Victor there was no intention of mockery or derision. "If Victor was in any way offended, this was not at all in the club's intentions." Osimhen helped Napoli end their 33-year wait for a league title last season as he was Serie A's top scorer with 26 goals. Despite the row, he played and scored in Napoli's 4-1 league win over Udinese on Wednesday to take his tally to four goals in seven games this season. Champions Napoli are fifth in the league standings and will face Lecce on Saturday before hosting Real Madrid in the Champions League. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Never intended to offend or make fun of Victor Osimhen: Napoli's official statement on viral Tik-Tok video

Spanish soccer club Barcelona are under investigation for suspected "active bribery" as part of a probe into suspected corruption spanning two decades at the refereeing committee, according to a court document seen by Reuters on Thursday.

Police also searched the offices of the football federation RFEF in Madrid on Thursday, the Barcelona court said, as part of the ongoing inquiry into "possible systemic corruption" within the Spanish refereeing committee.

Spanish football and the RFEF in particular are going through a moment of reckoning amid allegations of sexual abuse against former RFEF chief Luis Rubiales.

Rubiales kissed World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso on the lips on August&nbsp;20, setting off a furore that largely overshadowed both the women's team triumph in Sydney and the refereeing scandal. Rubiales has since quit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/efl-cup-man-city-crash-out-at-newcastle-chelsea-bounce-back-arsenal-liverpool-win-640445">EFL Cup: Man City crash out at Newcastle, Chelsea bounce back; Arsenal, Liverpool win</a>

The refereeing investigation has now been widened to include Barcelona as a suspect. Investigating judge Joaquin Aguirre Lopez said earlier in September the club may have benefited from graft.

In March, prosecutors filed a complaint over alleged payments of more than 7.3 million euros ($7.8 million) over 17 years to firms owned by Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, who was vice-president of the RFEF's refereeing committee from 1993 to 2018.

Reuters has been unable to reach Negreira. RFEF and Barcelona were not immediately available for comments.

Barcelona has denied any wrongdoing, saying in a statement in February it had paid an external consultant who supplied it with "technical reports related to professional refereeing", which it said was a common practice among professional football clubs.

Barcelona's arch-rivals Real Madrid had joined the prosecution in the lawsuit as a damaged party.

According to judge Aguirre, Negreira was responsible for ranking and evaluating the referees. However, no evidence has been found so far of Negreira paying referees to influence match results, Aguirre said in early September.

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Spanish soccer club Barcelona are under investigation for suspected "active bribery" as part of a probe into suspected corruption spanning two decades at the refereeing committee, according to a court document seen by Reuters on Thursday.

Spanish soccer club Barcelona are under investigation for suspected "active bribery" as part of a probe into suspected corruption spanning two decades at the refereeing committee, according to a court document seen by Reuters on Thursday. Police also searched the offices of the football federation RFEF in Madrid on Thursday, the Barcelona court said, as part of the ongoing inquiry into "possible systemic corruption" within the Spanish refereeing committee. Spanish football and the RFEF in particular are going through a moment of reckoning amid allegations of sexual abuse against former RFEF chief Luis Rubiales. Rubiales kissed World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso on the lips on August 20, setting off a furore that largely overshadowed both the women's team triumph in Sydney and the refereeing scandal. Rubiales has since quit. ALSO READ: EFL Cup: Man City crash out at Newcastle, Chelsea bounce back; Arsenal, Liverpool win The refereeing investigation has now been widened to include Barcelona as a suspect. Investigating judge Joaquin Aguirre Lopez said earlier in September the club may have benefited from graft. In March, prosecutors filed a complaint over alleged payments of more than 7.3 million euros ($7.8 million) over 17 years to firms owned by Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, who was vice-president of the RFEF's refereeing committee from 1993 to 2018. Reuters has been unable to reach Negreira. RFEF and Barcelona were not immediately available for comments. Barcelona has denied any wrongdoing, saying in a statement in February it had paid an external consultant who supplied it with "technical reports related to professional refereeing", which it said was a common practice among professional football clubs. Barcelona's arch-rivals Real Madrid had joined the prosecution in the lawsuit as a damaged party. According to judge Aguirre, Negreira was responsible for ranking and evaluating the referees. However, no evidence has been found so far of Negreira paying referees to influence match results, Aguirre said in early September. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

FC Barcelona under investigation for suspected corruption in refereeing case

Selective outrage is when two people engage in identical acts but one is shamed while the other is lauded something similar happened in the world of football.

Why is French footballer Karim Benzema being trolled?

Ukraine has said it will not play in tournaments involving Russian teams after soccer European governing body, UEFA, announced plans to reinstate Russia's Under-17 sides to European competitions. In a statement released late on Tuesday, the Ukrainian Association of Football (UAF) urged UEFA to reconsider its decision and urged other countries not to play against Russian teams.

UEFA decided after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 that all Russian teams - national or club sides - would be suspended from participation in its competitions.

But UEFA said on Tuesday that "children should not be punished for actions whose responsibility lies exclusively with adults", and that Russian U-17 sides would be readmitted to UEFA competitions "in the course of this season".

"UAF strongly condemns today's UEFA decision on the return of U-17 teams from the Russian Federation to international competitions," the UAF said, urging UEFA to stick to its blanket ban on Russian teams.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/china-open-2023-carlos-alcaraz-relishes-beautiful-battle-for-number-one-spot-640174">China Open 2023: Carlos Alcaraz relishes 'beautiful battle' for number one spot</a>

"UAF confirms that we will not take part in any competitions with the participation of Russian teams, and appeal to other UEFA member associations to boycott possible matches with the participation of teams from the Russian Federation, subject to their admission."

It said the return of Russian teams to competitions "in the midst of hostilities conducted by the Russian Federation against Ukraine is groundless and such that it tolerates Russia's aggressive policy."

England's Football Association reacted to UEFA's decision on Tuesday by saying its youth teams would not play against Russia.

The U-17 men's European Championship finals will be held in Cyprus next year, while the women's tournament will take place in Sweden.

Ukraine's sports ministry has barred Ukrainian national sports associations from sending delegations to compete at events where Russians or Belarusians were competing. Belarus let its territory be used as a launchpad for Russia's invasion.

Ukraine's football association subsequently clarified that its senior team would continue to participate in qualifiers for Euro 2024, despite the fact that the Belarusian team is competing in a separate qualifying group.

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Ukraine has said it will not play in tournaments involving Russian teams after soccer European governing body, UEFA, announced plans to reinstate Russia's Under-17 sides to European competitions.

Ukraine has said it will not play in tournaments involving Russian teams after soccer European governing body, UEFA, announced plans to reinstate Russia's Under-17 sides to European competitions. In a statement released late on Tuesday, the Ukrainian Association of Football (UAF) urged UEFA to reconsider its decision and urged other countries not to play against Russian teams. UEFA decided after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 that all Russian teams - national or club sides - would be suspended from participation in its competitions. But UEFA said on Tuesday that "children should not be punished for actions whose responsibility lies exclusively with adults", and that Russian U-17 sides would be readmitted to UEFA competitions "in the course of this season". "UAF strongly condemns today's UEFA decision on the return of U-17 teams from the Russian Federation to international competitions," the UAF said, urging UEFA to stick to its blanket ban on Russian teams. ALSO READ: China Open 2023: Carlos Alcaraz relishes 'beautiful battle' for number one spot "UAF confirms that we will not take part in any competitions with the participation of Russian teams, and appeal to other UEFA member associations to boycott possible matches with the participation of teams from the Russian Federation, subject to their admission." It said the return of Russian teams to competitions "in the midst of hostilities conducted by the Russian Federation against Ukraine is groundless and such that it tolerates Russia's aggressive policy." England's Football Association reacted to UEFA's decision on Tuesday by saying its youth teams would not play against Russia. The U-17 men's European Championship finals will be held in Cyprus next year, while the women's tournament will take place in Sweden. Ukraine's sports ministry has barred Ukrainian national sports associations from sending delegations to compete at events where Russians or Belarusians were competing. Belarus let its territory be used as a launchpad for Russia's invasion. Ukraine's football association subsequently clarified that its senior team would continue to participate in qualifiers for Euro 2024, despite the fact that the Belarusian team is competing in a separate qualifying group. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Ukraine hit back at UEFA over reinstating Russia in U-17 European competitions

The president of Colombian second division club Tigres FC, Edgar Paez, was shot dead following his team's defeat on Saturday, the club have announced.

The 63-year-old was returning home by car with his daughter after the 3-2 home loss to Atletico FC when he was killed by two men on a motorbike close to the stadium, local media reported.

His daughter escaped unharmed and authorities are currently conducting an investigation into the murder.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-football-associations-ex-boss-chen-xuyuan-charged-for-accepting-bribes-639786">Chinese Football Association's ex-boss Chen Xuyuan charged for 'accepting bribes'</a>

"The Tigres family and the sporting community are devastated by this event," the club said in a statement. "His commitment to the team and his dedication to the development of the sport in our region left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him."

Fernando Jaramillo, President of the Major Division of Colombian Professional Football (DIMAYOR) which runs the professional leagues, mourned the death of Paez.

"He was always distinguished by his respect for his friends, by his strong but respectful positions and by the love he professed for the sport that we are all passionate about: football," Jaramillo said.

There will be a minute's silence for Paez in the next two rounds of matches.

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The president of Colombian second division club Tigres FC, Edgar Paez, was shot dead following his team's defeat on Saturday, the club have announced. The 63-year-old was returning home by car with his daughter after the 3-2 home loss to Atletico FC when he was killed by two men on a motorbike close to the stadium, local media reported.

The president of Colombian second division club Tigres FC, Edgar Paez, was shot dead following his team's defeat on Saturday, the club have announced. The 63-year-old was returning home by car with his daughter after the 3-2 home loss to Atletico FC when he was killed by two men on a motorbike close to the stadium, local media reported. His daughter escaped unharmed and authorities are currently conducting an investigation into the murder. ALSO READ: Chinese Football Association's ex-boss Chen Xuyuan charged for 'accepting bribes' "The Tigres family and the sporting community are devastated by this event," the club said in a statement. "His commitment to the team and his dedication to the development of the sport in our region left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him." Fernando Jaramillo, President of the Major Division of Colombian Professional Football (DIMAYOR) which runs the professional leagues, mourned the death of Paez. "He was always distinguished by his respect for his friends, by his strong but respectful positions and by the love he professed for the sport that we are all passionate about: football," Jaramillo said. There will be a minute's silence for Paez in the next two rounds of matches. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

President of Colombia's second-division club fatally shot after home team's loss

Two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas and two other Spain players will testify before a judge over the Women's World Cup kiss scandal involving Luis Rubiales, a judicial source said Monday.&nbsp;Putellas, defender Irene Paredes and goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez are all slated to testify on October 2 in the case against Rubiales who is facing sexual assault charges after kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain beat England in the final on August 20.

Rubiales was head of Spain's RFEF football federation at the time but has since resigned. He made his first appearance in court on September 15.&nbsp;Putellas, one of four players who captain the national squad, was quick to publicly defend Hermoso in the scandal that erupted over the forcible kiss, denouncing Rubiales' refusal to resign as "unacceptable".

Barcelona defender Paredes, also a national squad captain, and Rodriguez, who was on the bench for the final, will also testify at next week's session. On Monday, investigating judge Francisco de Jorge heard testimony from Hermoso's brother and one of her friends, the source said.&nbsp;

Both confirmed Hermoso's statements that she did not consent to the kiss and had been under pressure to justify Rubiales' actions.&nbsp;The disgraced former football boss is also facing charges of coercion after Hermoso stated that she "and those close to her had suffered constant ongoing pressure by Luis Rubiales and his professional entourage to justify and condone" his actions.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-should-take-action-over-homophobic-chants-says-french-sports-minister-amelie-oudea-castera-639499">PSG should take action over homophobic chants, says French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea Castera</a>

<h2>- RFEF members in court Thursday -</h2>

Several experts also testified on Monday, with the judge due to hear testimony from RFEF members on Thursday.&nbsp;It was not immediately clear whether Hermoso -- who has since returned to Mexico where she currently plays for Pachuca FC -- would be called to testify, and if so, when it would happen.&nbsp;

Following the initial hearing, the judge slapped Rubiales with a restraining order, banning him from being within 200 metres of Hermoso. Rubiales' actions in front of the world's cameras sparked a huge backlash, but he refused to resign, prompting FIFA to suspend him and prosecutors to file suit against him before he finally threw in the towel and resigned on September 11, three weeks after the incident.&nbsp;

But the kiss provoked a rebellion within women's football with scores of players staging a strike to demand far-reaching changes within the RFEF.&nbsp; Ahead of their first Nations League match on Friday, the World Cup squad staged a joint protest with their Swedish opponents holding up a giant banner in Spanish saying "It's over" in reference to sexism within football.&nbsp; Spain won the Gothenburg clash 3-2.

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Two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas and two other Spain players will testify before a judge over the Women's World Cup kiss scandal involving Luis Rubiales, a judicial source said Monday.

Two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas and two other Spain players will testify before a judge over the Women's World Cup kiss scandal involving Luis Rubiales, a judicial source said Monday. Putellas, defender Irene Paredes and goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez are all slated to testify on October 2 in the case against Rubiales who is facing sexual assault charges after kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain beat England in the final on August 20. Rubiales was head of Spain's RFEF football federation at the time but has since resigned. He made his first appearance in court on September 15. Putellas, one of four players who captain the national squad, was quick to publicly defend Hermoso in the scandal that erupted over the forcible kiss, denouncing Rubiales' refusal to resign as "unacceptable". Barcelona defender Paredes, also a national squad captain, and Rodriguez, who was on the bench for the final, will also testify at next week's session. On Monday, investigating judge Francisco de Jorge heard testimony from Hermoso's brother and one of her friends, the source said. Both confirmed Hermoso's statements that she did not consent to the kiss and had been under pressure to justify Rubiales' actions. The disgraced former football boss is also facing charges of coercion after Hermoso stated that she "and those close to her had suffered constant ongoing pressure by Luis Rubiales and his professional entourage to justify and condone" his actions. Also read: PSG should take action over homophobic chants, says French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea Castera - RFEF members in court Thursday - Several experts also testified on Monday, with the judge due to hear testimony from RFEF members on Thursday. It was not immediately clear whether Hermoso -- who has since returned to Mexico where she currently plays for Pachuca FC -- would be called to testify, and if so, when it would happen. Following the initial hearing, the judge slapped Rubiales with a restraining order, banning him from being within 200 metres of Hermoso. Rubiales' actions in front of the world's cameras sparked a huge backlash, but he refused to resign, prompting FIFA to suspend him and prosecutors to file suit against him before he finally threw in the towel and resigned on September 11, three weeks after the incident. But the kiss provoked a rebellion within women's football with scores of players staging a strike to demand far-reaching changes within the RFEF. Ahead of their first Nations League match on Friday, the World Cup squad staged a joint protest with their Swedish opponents holding up a giant banner in Spanish saying "It's over" in reference to sexism within football. Spain won the Gothenburg clash 3-2. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spain's Alexia Putellas and two other players to testify in Luis Rubiales case

Julian Nagelsmann has been given nine months to revive flailing Germany ahead of hosting Euro 2024 after being named as the sacked Hansi Flick's successor as national team coach on Friday.

Germany appoints ‘unanimous choice’ Nagelsmann as head coach for Euro 2024

Lionel Messi, who has joined Inter Miami after his exit from Paris Saint Germain (PSG), has slammed his previous club for failing to acknowledge his World Cup win. In December 2022, Messi-led Argentina edged past France, 4-3 in a penalty shootout (after a 3-3 stalemate in regulation time), to win the FIFA World Cup final in Qatar. Thus, the Argentine achieved his dream of winning a World Cup title during his illustrious career. However, he has slammed the French club for giving no 'recognition' post his World Cup triumph.

In an interview with Olga, Messi said, "It was understandable. I was in the place where we had won the final and it was our fault that France hadn't won the World Cup this time. I was the only player who didn't get recognition, apart from my 25 other players, but that's OK."

He further stated that he didn't have a great time at PSG,&nbsp;everything happened for a reason and the superstar footballer believes he needed to move to the French club to press hard for a World Cup win. "That's how it happened. The truth is that it didn't go the way I expected, but I always say that things happen for a reason and even though I wasn't doing well there, it was my turn to be a world champion there. Everything happens for a reason and if it had to be like that," the 36-year-old Messi added.

Early this year, when Messi rejoined PSG after the World Cup triumph,&nbsp;the club's official handle on X, then known as Twitter, did post a video&nbsp;welcoming Messi. Here's the clip:&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Une 𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐞 𝐝'𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫 pour notre champion du monde ! 👏❤️💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BravoLeo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BravoLeo</a> <a href="https://t.co/xsRHdfVbQS">pic.twitter.com/xsRHdfVbQS</a>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_inside/status/1610582260486672384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-champions-argentina-remain-top-of-fifa-world-rankings-638267">World champions Argentina retain top position in FIFA world rankings</a>

Talking about Messi's run in FIFA World Cup,&nbsp;he ended with seven goals and three assists in seven appearances to help his side win the coveted title after 36 years. His stint at the PSG, however, wasn't a memorable one. He featured in two seasons for the club where he had a mixed run despite 22 goals and 30 assists. Overall, he&nbsp;fell short of making a strong&nbsp;impact like his days at FC Barcelona.

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Lionel Messi, who has joined Inter Miami after his exit from Paris Saint Germain (PSG), has slammed his previous club for failing to acknowledge his World Cup win.

Lionel Messi, who has joined Inter Miami after his exit from Paris Saint Germain (PSG), has slammed his previous club for failing to acknowledge his World Cup win. In December 2022, Messi-led Argentina edged past France, 4-3 in a penalty shootout (after a 3-3 stalemate in regulation time), to win the FIFA World Cup final in Qatar. Thus, the Argentine achieved his dream of winning a World Cup title during his illustrious career. However, he has slammed the French club for giving no 'recognition' post his World Cup triumph. In an interview with Olga, Messi said, "It was understandable. I was in the place where we had won the final and it was our fault that France hadn't won the World Cup this time. I was the only player who didn't get recognition, apart from my 25 other players, but that's OK." He further stated that he didn't have a great time at PSG, everything happened for a reason and the superstar footballer believes he needed to move to the French club to press hard for a World Cup win. "That's how it happened. The truth is that it didn't go the way I expected, but I always say that things happen for a reason and even though I wasn't doing well there, it was my turn to be a world champion there. Everything happens for a reason and if it had to be like that," the 36-year-old Messi added. Early this year, when Messi rejoined PSG after the World Cup triumph, the club's official handle on X, then known as Twitter, did post a video welcoming Messi. Here's the clip: Une 𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐞 𝐝'𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫 pour notre champion du monde ! 👏❤️💙#BravoLeo pic.twitter.com/xsRHdfVbQS — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) January 4, 2023 × Also read: World champions Argentina retain top position in FIFA world rankings Talking about Messi's run in FIFA World Cup, he ended with seven goals and three assists in seven appearances to help his side win the coveted title after 36 years. His stint at the PSG, however, wasn't a memorable one. He featured in two seasons for the club where he had a mixed run despite 22 goals and 30 assists. Overall, he fell short of making a strong impact like his days at FC Barcelona. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Did not get any recognition for winning FIFA World Cup': Lionel Messi slams former club PSG

Japan began their bid for a first Asian Games men's football gold since 2010 with a 3-1 win over Qatar on Wednesday, as Syria and Afghanistan pulled out.

Japan were cruising 2-0 at half-time after goals by Teppei Yachida and Kotaro Uchino, before Qatar hit back in the 79th minute through substitute Abdulla Al Sulaiti.

But just as the Qataris threatened to grab a point in the group-round match, defender Taichi Yamasaki popped up to make the game safe for Japan in the closing minutes.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-nice-job-to-do-england-skipper-jos-buttler-on-informing-jason-roy-about-his-world-cup-squad-omission-637962">'Not a nice job to do' England skipper Jos Buttler on informing Jason Roy about his World Cup squad omission</a>

The Games in the eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou do not officially open until Saturday, but several sports are already under way.

On Tuesday, the first day of action, South Korea launched their quest for a third men's football gold in a row with a 9-0 demolition of Kuwait.

The men's football competition has been hit by withdrawals, however, with Afghanistan and Syria pulling out on Wednesday from Group C.

That means group opponents Hong Kong and Uzbekistan are into the last 16 without kicking a ball.

India were thrashed 5-1 by hosts China on Tuesday but coach Igor Stimac said he was just pleased to be able to field a team.

"I'm happy because I see that some teams pulled out at the last minute (because) they couldn't get enough players," said the former international defender for Croatia.

"It's a big problem for the whole tournament now."

The Asian Games are outside FIFA's international window so clubs are not compelled to release players.

Asian Games football teams are made up of under-23 squads but they can have three overage players.

Football, beach volleyball, cricket, modern pentathlon, rowing, sailing and volleyball will all take place at the Games on Thursday.&nbsp;

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Japan began their bid for a first Asian Games men's football gold since 2010 with a 3-1 win over Qatar on Wednesday, as Syria and Afghanistan pulled out. Japan were cruising 2-0 at half-time after goals by Teppei Yachida and Kotaro Uchino, before Qatar hit back in the 79th minute through substitute Abdulla Al Sulaiti.

Japan began their bid for a first Asian Games men's football gold since 2010 with a 3-1 win over Qatar on Wednesday, as Syria and Afghanistan pulled out. Japan were cruising 2-0 at half-time after goals by Teppei Yachida and Kotaro Uchino, before Qatar hit back in the 79th minute through substitute Abdulla Al Sulaiti. But just as the Qataris threatened to grab a point in the group-round match, defender Taichi Yamasaki popped up to make the game safe for Japan in the closing minutes. Also Read: 'Not a nice job to do' England skipper Jos Buttler on informing Jason Roy about his World Cup squad omission The Games in the eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou do not officially open until Saturday, but several sports are already under way. On Tuesday, the first day of action, South Korea launched their quest for a third men's football gold in a row with a 9-0 demolition of Kuwait. The men's football competition has been hit by withdrawals, however, with Afghanistan and Syria pulling out on Wednesday from Group C. That means group opponents Hong Kong and Uzbekistan are into the last 16 without kicking a ball. India were thrashed 5-1 by hosts China on Tuesday but coach Igor Stimac said he was just pleased to be able to field a team. "I'm happy because I see that some teams pulled out at the last minute (because) they couldn't get enough players," said the former international defender for Croatia. "It's a big problem for the whole tournament now." The Asian Games are outside FIFA's international window so clubs are not compelled to release players. Asian Games football teams are made up of under-23 squads but they can have three overage players. Football, beach volleyball, cricket, modern pentathlon, rowing, sailing and volleyball will all take place at the Games on Thursday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asian Games: Japan beat Qatar in opening fixture with aim to win first football gold since 2010

The downtown area of Srinagar is changing, earlier known for stone pelting and law and order incidents, it is now becoming an example of peace. The Downtown Heroes Football Club which was formed a few years ago has not only remained but become a mission, and is helping the youngsters to stay away from drugs and give a new shape to their future.

The old city of Srinagar was known for producing top-class footballers&nbsp;who even went on to represent Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir and India at the national and international level. The downtown area of Srinagar was known as the hub of football in Kashmir, but with the beginning of insurgency, the downtown lost touch with the most popular sport in Kashmir.

Downtown Heroes FC was started with an aim to revive the lost glory of football in the old city. It was launched in 2020 and the club has already made a name for itself. The club is not only changing the image of the downtown, but it also has helped in curbing the drug menace in the Srinagar city. Not only are they including addicts in the club to play but also running campaigns for a drug-free Kashmir.

''See we started this club in 2020. We started this for a reason that was that downtown earlier was known for good things but over the period of time it lost its glory. It was now known for bad things, the aim to start this club was to show the world that we are not bad people and if given a chance we can excel anywhere. One of the biggest challenges Kashmir is facing now is drug addiction because we lack basic avenues of entertainment, so we want to give this alternative to people to&nbsp;come and&nbsp;play football and shun violence and drugs. We are successful till now. We have people who have left drugs and are playing with us. The target is to get youth away from this all,'' said Hanan Bashir, co founder, Downtown Heroes FC.

In its inaugural season, Downtown Heroes FC went to play in the Premier League, Real Kashmir Cup and also went on to win the Doon Knockout football tournament title. This year Downtown Heroes FC played the Durand Cup which is the oldest football competition in India and Asia.

''In 2020, we created this Downtown Club. It took us three years to become successful in our goal. This year we went for the Durand Cup, which is the oldest tournament in Asia. The top teams of India played there and this year Downtown Club was also one of those teams, which is a big success for us. Many of our boys are playing in foreign clubs and are constantly getting offers,'' said Mushtaq Bashir, co-founder, Downtown Heroes FC.

The club includes youth in the age group of 15 years to 25 years. The club began playing at the Islamia College ground in Downtown and quickly rose to prominence on the domestic football map of the country. The Downtown Heroes have been promoted to the 2022–23 I-League Division 2. Downtown Heroes Football Club is showing a new direction to the youth of Valley.

The more private clubs come to our Kashmir, the better it is. The future is being made. In recent times, drug addiction has been on the rise and if the youth go into the sports, they will save themselves from these bad habits. The change is coming slowly, the downtown club has a lot of local youngsters playing in it and we have got a great platform like the Durand Cup to play in,'' said Salah Shafi, a player.

Downtown Football Club has also now joined the J&amp;K Sports Council's campaign to bring more youth into the sports field. Next week the club will be selecting football players at sub-junior, junior levels. This is part of the club's expansion plan to involve more youth in sports and keep them away from drugs and violence.

''This has provided us with great help. There is a huge drug addiction here and when they saw us footballers on TV&nbsp;to play football for the club, they got inspired. The people from our area are extremely proud and inspired when they see us playing on TV. Football has played a big role in downtown to save youngsters from addiction.

The bigger the platform you get, the better your profile becomes,'' said Momin Khalid, another player.

More than 200 youngsters are right now associated with the Downtown Heroes FC.

&nbsp;

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The downtown area of Srinagar is changing, earlier known for stone pelting and law and order incidents, it is now becoming an example of peace. The Downtown Heroes Football Club which was formed a few years ago has not only remained but become a mission, and is helping the youngsters to stay away from drugs and give a new shape to their future.

The downtown area of Srinagar is changing, earlier known for stone pelting and law and order incidents, it is now becoming an example of peace. The Downtown Heroes Football Club which was formed a few years ago has not only remained but become a mission, and is helping the youngsters to stay away from drugs and give a new shape to their future. The old city of Srinagar was known for producing top-class footballers who even went on to represent Jammu and Kashmir and India at the national and international level. The downtown area of Srinagar was known as the hub of football in Kashmir, but with the beginning of insurgency, the downtown lost touch with the most popular sport in Kashmir. Downtown Heroes FC was started with an aim to revive the lost glory of football in the old city. It was launched in 2020 and the club has already made a name for itself. The club is not only changing the image of the downtown, but it also has helped in curbing the drug menace in the Srinagar city. Not only are they including addicts in the club to play but also running campaigns for a drug-free Kashmir. ''See we started this club in 2020. We started this for a reason that was that downtown earlier was known for good things but over the period of time it lost its glory. It was now known for bad things, the aim to start this club was to show the world that we are not bad people and if given a chance we can excel anywhere. One of the biggest challenges Kashmir is facing now is drug addiction because we lack basic avenues of entertainment, so we want to give this alternative to people to come and play football and shun violence and drugs. We are successful till now. We have people who have left drugs and are playing with us. The target is to get youth away from this all,'' said Hanan Bashir, co founder, Downtown Heroes FC. In its inaugural season, Downtown Heroes FC went to play in the Premier League, Real Kashmir Cup and also went on to win the Doon Knockout football tournament title. This year Downtown Heroes FC played the Durand Cup which is the oldest football competition in India and Asia. ''In 2020, we created this Downtown Club. It took us three years to become successful in our goal. This year we went for the Durand Cup, which is the oldest tournament in Asia. The top teams of India played there and this year Downtown Club was also one of those teams, which is a big success for us. Many of our boys are playing in foreign clubs and are constantly getting offers,'' said Mushtaq Bashir, co-founder, Downtown Heroes FC. The club includes youth in the age group of 15 years to 25 years. The club began playing at the Islamia College ground in Downtown and quickly rose to prominence on the domestic football map of the country. The Downtown Heroes have been promoted to the 2022–23 I-League Division 2. Downtown Heroes Football Club is showing a new direction to the youth of Valley. The more private clubs come to our Kashmir, the better it is. The future is being made. In recent times, drug addiction has been on the rise and if the youth go into the sports, they will save themselves from these bad habits. The change is coming slowly, the downtown club has a lot of local youngsters playing in it and we have got a great platform like the Durand Cup to play in,'' said Salah Shafi, a player. Downtown Football Club has also now joined the J&K Sports Council's campaign to bring more youth into the sports field. Next week the club will be selecting football players at sub-junior, junior levels. This is part of the club's expansion plan to involve more youth in sports and keep them away from drugs and violence. ''This has provided us with great help. There is a huge drug addiction here and when they saw us footballers on TV to play football for the club, they got inspired. The people from our area are extremely proud and inspired when they see us playing on TV. Football has played a big role in downtown to save youngsters from addiction. The bigger the platform you get, the better your profile becomes,'' said Momin Khalid, another player. More than 200 youngsters are right now associated with the Downtown Heroes FC. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: This football club is changing the image of Srinagar's downtown. Here's how

World champions Argentina strengthened their grip at the top of the FIFA world rankings in the latest list on Thursday, with the top five remaining unchanged after the international break. Argentina, who dethroned Brazil at the summit in April, remained top after beating Ecuador and Bolivia in their 2026 World Cup qualifiers earlier this month.

Second-placed France, who lost to Germany in a friendly last week, retained second place followed by Brazil (third), England (fourth) and Belgium (fifth). Portugal were the only team in the top 10 to climb a spot, moving up to eighth, while Italy dropped one place to ninth after a 1-1 draw with North Macedonia in a Euro 2024 qualifier.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-world-cup-captain-michele-lamaro-lauds-italys-second-half-comeback-against-uruguay-638207">Rugby World Cup: Captain Michele Lamaro lauds Italy's second-half comeback against Uruguay</a>

Croatia (sixth), Netherlands (seventh) and Spain (10th) complete the top 10, while Morocco (13th), Colombia (16th), Denmark (18th) and Japan (19th) all moved up a place.

The top 20-ranked nations:

1 - Argentina

2 - France

3 - Brazil

4 - England

5 - Belgium

6 - Croatia

7 - Netherlands

8 - Portugal

9 - Italy

10 - Spain

11 - United States

12 - Mexico

13 - Morocco

14 - Switzerland

15 - Germany

16 - Colombia

17 - Uruguay

18 - Denmark

19 - Japan

20 - Senegal

World champions Argentina strengthened their grip at the top of the FIFA world rankings in the latest list on Thursday, with the top five remaining unchanged after the international break.

World champions Argentina strengthened their grip at the top of the FIFA world rankings in the latest list on Thursday, with the top five remaining unchanged after the international break. Argentina, who dethroned Brazil at the summit in April, remained top after beating Ecuador and Bolivia in their 2026 World Cup qualifiers earlier this month. Second-placed France, who lost to Germany in a friendly last week, retained second place followed by Brazil (third), England (fourth) and Belgium (fifth). Portugal were the only team in the top 10 to climb a spot, moving up to eighth, while Italy dropped one place to ninth after a 1-1 draw with North Macedonia in a Euro 2024 qualifier. Also read: Rugby World Cup: Captain Michele Lamaro lauds Italy's second-half comeback against Uruguay Croatia (sixth), Netherlands (seventh) and Spain (10th) complete the top 10, while Morocco (13th), Colombia (16th), Denmark (18th) and Japan (19th) all moved up a place. The top 20-ranked nations: 1 - Argentina 2 - France 3 - Brazil 4 - England 5 - Belgium 6 - Croatia 7 - Netherlands 8 - Portugal 9 - Italy 10 - Spain 11 - United States 12 - Mexico 13 - Morocco 14 - Switzerland 15 - Germany 16 - Colombia 17 - Uruguay 18 - Denmark 19 - Japan 20 - Senegal

World champions Argentina retain top position in FIFA world rankings

Harry Kane was among the scorers as Bayern Munich beat Manchester United 4-3 in their heavyweight Champions League clash on Wednesday (September 20), while Jude Bellingham snatched a dramatic late winner for Real Madrid and Arsenal began their campaign with a big victory.

Harry Kane was among the scorers as Bayern Munich beat Manchester United 4-3 in their heavyweight Champions League clash on Wednesday (September 20), while Jude Bellingham snatched a dramatic late winner for Real Madrid and Arsenal began their campaign with a big victory. The meeting between German champions Bayern and a struggling United side, a repeat of the 1999 final, was the biggest game of the opening round of matches in this season's competition and it did not disappoint. Leroy Sane gave Bayern the lead at the Allianz Arena with a shot that squirmed through the grasp of United goalkeeper Andre Onana, and Jamal Musiala set up Serge Gnabry to make it 2-0 just after the half-hour mark. Rasmus Hojlund pulled one back early in the second half with his first United goal, but shortly after Christian Eriksen was penalised for a handball in the box and Kane blasted in the resulting penalty. Sane hit the post for the hosts before a crazy finish saw Casemiro reduce the deficit again, substitute Mathys Tel score Bayern's fourth, and Casemiro nod in another at the death to make it 4-3. "A crazy finish," Kane told British broadcaster TNT Sports after netting his fifth goal in six games for his new club. "We lost a bit of concentration there in the last five minutes. Thankfully we were able to hold onto the lead. Overall it's a really good start to the campaign against a tough side," he said. Erik ten Hag's United team have now suffered three consecutive defeats in all competitions and lost four of their last five matches. "After my mistake we lost control of the game. It's a difficult situation for us, for me," said Onana about Bayern's first goal. Thomas Tuchel's side are already in control of Group A, in which the other game saw Galatasaray come from two goals down to draw 2-2 with FC Copenhagen. Goals from Mohamed Elyounoussi and Diogo Goncalves had the visitors in control in Istanbul but they then had Elias Jelert sent off and Galatasaray struck twice in the last four minutes of regulation time through Sacha Boey and Tete to earn a point. Also read | UCL roundup: Lazio goalkeeper scores 95th min equaliser, Man City fashion comeback win Bellingham strikes again In Madrid, Bellingham popped up from close range to score a 94th-minute winner as record 14-time European champions Real beat tournament debutants Union Berlin 1-0 in Group C. The England international has started his Madrid career in stunning goalscoring form with six goals in six games for the club across all competitions. "He has great qualities, it seems he's got luck too, because the goal is a rebound, but he was there, he arrives from deep, and he's more switched on than others, he's got that quality and he's taking advantage of it," said Real coach Carlo Ancelotti. Madrid's next game is away to Napoli, who won 2-1 against Braga in Portugal with Sikou Niakate's late own goal giving the Italian team victory. Giovanni Di Lorenzo had put Napoli ahead but Bruma looked to have earned Braga a draw when he struck with six minutes left. Arsenal cruise Arsenal cruised to a 4-0 win over PSV Eindhoven in their first Champions League game since the 2016/17 season. Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus all scored first-half goals in the rain in London and Martin Odegaard wrapped up the win after the break. "It was a beautiful night after such a long time. It was great to see the atmosphere, the Champions League music. It was emotional before the game," Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said. Their Group B rivals Sevilla and Lens drew 1-1 in Spain, with Angelo Fulgini's free-kick earning the French side a draw after Lucas Ocampos headed the hosts in front. Last season's beaten finalists Inter Milan needed an 87th-minute Lautaro Martinez equaliser as they came from behind to draw 1-1 at Real Sociedad in Group D. Brais Mendez had given the home team an early lead in San Sebastian. In the same group, Red Bull Salzburg missed one penalty but scored another in a 2-0 win away to Benfica in Lisbon. Karim Konate blazed the Austrian team's first spot-kick over the bar in the third minute but home defender Antonio Silva was sent off on 13 minutes for a handball on the line and Salzburg's second penalty was converted by Roko Simic. Oscar Gloukh scored their second goal just after the break. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UCL roundup: United lose after Onana howler, Bellingham strikes again for Madrid at death

The majority of Spain players, who won the Women's World Cup last month, were selected on Monday (September 18) for upcoming fixtures against Sweden and Switzerland by their newly-appointed coach, Montse Tome, after they appeared to end their boycott, but Jenni Hermoso was left out of the squad. Tome said Hermoso was not on the squad list announced on Monday to 'protect her' after Rubiales' allegedly unsolicited kissed her on the lips in Sydney after Spain won the tournament.

Fifteen out of the 23 cup-winning squad were included on the list, as well as two players - Mapi Leon and Patri Guijarro - who were not called up for the World Cup after signing an open letter against then-coach Jorge Vilda. On Friday (September 15), a group of 39 players - including 21 out of the 23 cup-winning squad - said it wanted further changes at the country's football federation, as the resignation of its chief Luis Rubiales and the replacement of coach Jorge Vilda were not enough for them to return to the side.

The new coach, Montse Tome, who had been Vilda's assistant for five years, told a news conference that none of the players had asked not to be selected, adding she had spoken to them but declining to reveal what was discussed.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-pep-guardiola-backs-premier-league-giants-to-retain-ucl-title-637245">Manchester City's Pep Guardiola backs Premier League giants to retain UCL title</a>

When asked if she was confident that all those on the list would answer the call to play, she said: "I have every confidence in the players...I trust that the players are professionals. They come from being world champions, they love the profession and I know they will be here with us tomorrow." She added, "It's the start of a new phase, the clock is ticking."

Tome suggested Hermoso had been left out of the squad because of the intense media attention she had received in the past month. "We stand with Jenni ... we believe that the best way to protect her is like this, but we are counting on Jenni," Tome said.

Earlier on Monday, the federation said in a statement it was convinced of the need for "structural changes" and had to clarify who was responsible for the behaviours the players had brought to light.

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The majority of Spain players, who won the Women's World Cup last month, were selected on Monday (September 18) for upcoming fixtures against Sweden and Switzerland by their newly-appointed coach, Montse Tome, after they appeared to end their boycott, but Jenni Hermoso was left out of the squad.

The majority of Spain players, who won the Women's World Cup last month, were selected on Monday (September 18) for upcoming fixtures against Sweden and Switzerland by their newly-appointed coach, Montse Tome, after they appeared to end their boycott, but Jenni Hermoso was left out of the squad. Tome said Hermoso was not on the squad list announced on Monday to 'protect her' after Rubiales' allegedly unsolicited kissed her on the lips in Sydney after Spain won the tournament. Fifteen out of the 23 cup-winning squad were included on the list, as well as two players - Mapi Leon and Patri Guijarro - who were not called up for the World Cup after signing an open letter against then-coach Jorge Vilda. On Friday (September 15), a group of 39 players - including 21 out of the 23 cup-winning squad - said it wanted further changes at the country's football federation, as the resignation of its chief Luis Rubiales and the replacement of coach Jorge Vilda were not enough for them to return to the side. The new coach, Montse Tome, who had been Vilda's assistant for five years, told a news conference that none of the players had asked not to be selected, adding she had spoken to them but declining to reveal what was discussed. Also read: Manchester City's Pep Guardiola backs Premier League giants to retain UCL title When asked if she was confident that all those on the list would answer the call to play, she said: "I have every confidence in the players...I trust that the players are professionals. They come from being world champions, they love the profession and I know they will be here with us tomorrow." She added, "It's the start of a new phase, the clock is ticking." Tome suggested Hermoso had been left out of the squad because of the intense media attention she had received in the past month. "We stand with Jenni ... we believe that the best way to protect her is like this, but we are counting on Jenni," Tome said. Earlier on Monday, the federation said in a statement it was convinced of the need for "structural changes" and had to clarify who was responsible for the behaviours the players had brought to light. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

No Jenni Hermoso in Spain squad for UEFA Women’s Nations League

The players of the Spanish Women's national team have reiterated their boycott call despite being called up for the Nations League matches by new head coach Montse Tome. This comes after Jennifer Hermoso was excluded from the squad following the Luis Rubiales kiss scandal at the FIFA Women's World Cup last month.

Spain players reiterate boycott call despite national team call-up

Six Spain players arrived at a Madrid hotel to join their women's national team camp on Tuesday, five of whom are currently striking over changes they want made in the Spanish football federation (RFEF).

Spain's women's World Cup final-winning goal scorer Olga Carmona and four others presented themselves, along with Athenea del Castillo, who is not on strike, while other players are expected to join up later for the camp in Oliva according to Spanish media reports.

Asked by a reporter if she was happy to be included in the squad, goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez replied "no" on her arrival to the hotel.

The striking players issued a statement Monday in which they reiterated their wish not to be called up, but acknowledged legal consequences which may force them to attend.

The Spanish government said early on Tuesday players who do not attend would have to be punished under the country's sports law.

New Spain coach Montse Tome named a surprise 23-woman squad on Monday for upcoming Nations League qualifiers including 20 players who said they were striking until further changes were made in the RFEF after the kiss scandal which rocked Spanish football.

Disgraced former federation president Luis Rubiales forcibly kissed midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain won the World Cup in Sydney on August 20, provoking worldwide outrage.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/out-of-favour-jenni-hermoso-says-spain-squad-announcement-shows-nothing-has-changed-637455">Out-of-favour Jenni Hermoso says Spain squad announcement shows 'nothing has changed'</a>

Rubiales eventually resigned three weeks after the incident and controversial coach Jorge Vilda was sacked, but many players want more wide-ranging improvements and structural changes.

As many as 39 players are on strike against the RFEF but they were told by the government early Tuesday that those who did not attend the team's camps when called up would have to be punished.

Hermoso was not named in the squad by Tome in order to "protect" her, the new coach, Vilda's former assistant, said Monday.

"Protect me from what? And from whom?" Hermoso posted on X, formerly Twitter, early Tuesday.

She accused the Spanish federation of seeking to "intimidate and threaten" the World Cup champion players by calling them up against their will for the upcoming matches.

Victor Francos, the president of Spain's High Council for Sports (CSD), said early Tuesday he would have to apply the country's sports law against any player who snubbed the call.

"If they don't turn up, the government would have to apply the law, which is a pity for me, but the law is the law," Francos told radio station Cadena Ser.

Spain's sports law from 2022 states that athletes must attend the call-ups of the national teams when summoned, and not doing so would be a "very serious" infraction.

The potential fines range between 3,000 and 30,000 euros ($3,200 to $32,100), while they could also lose their licenses to play altogether, for up to five years.

The decision on a potential punishment would be made by Spain's top sports court at the request of the CSD.

Spain play Sweden on September 22 and Switzerland on September 26 in the Nations League.

The eventual finalists of the Nations League will qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games.

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Six Spain players arrived at a Madrid hotel to join their women's national team camp on Tuesday, five of whom are currently striking over changes they want made in the Spanish football federation (RFEF).

Six Spain players arrived at a Madrid hotel to join their women's national team camp on Tuesday, five of whom are currently striking over changes they want made in the Spanish football federation (RFEF). Spain's women's World Cup final-winning goal scorer Olga Carmona and four others presented themselves, along with Athenea del Castillo, who is not on strike, while other players are expected to join up later for the camp in Oliva according to Spanish media reports. Asked by a reporter if she was happy to be included in the squad, goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez replied "no" on her arrival to the hotel. The striking players issued a statement Monday in which they reiterated their wish not to be called up, but acknowledged legal consequences which may force them to attend. The Spanish government said early on Tuesday players who do not attend would have to be punished under the country's sports law. New Spain coach Montse Tome named a surprise 23-woman squad on Monday for upcoming Nations League qualifiers including 20 players who said they were striking until further changes were made in the RFEF after the kiss scandal which rocked Spanish football. Disgraced former federation president Luis Rubiales forcibly kissed midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain won the World Cup in Sydney on August 20, provoking worldwide outrage. ALSO READ: Out-of-favour Jenni Hermoso says Spain squad announcement shows 'nothing has changed' Rubiales eventually resigned three weeks after the incident and controversial coach Jorge Vilda was sacked, but many players want more wide-ranging improvements and structural changes. As many as 39 players are on strike against the RFEF but they were told by the government early Tuesday that those who did not attend the team's camps when called up would have to be punished. Hermoso was not named in the squad by Tome in order to "protect" her, the new coach, Vilda's former assistant, said Monday. "Protect me from what? And from whom?" Hermoso posted on X, formerly Twitter, early Tuesday. She accused the Spanish federation of seeking to "intimidate and threaten" the World Cup champion players by calling them up against their will for the upcoming matches. Victor Francos, the president of Spain's High Council for Sports (CSD), said early Tuesday he would have to apply the country's sports law against any player who snubbed the call. "If they don't turn up, the government would have to apply the law, which is a pity for me, but the law is the law," Francos told radio station Cadena Ser. Spain's sports law from 2022 states that athletes must attend the call-ups of the national teams when summoned, and not doing so would be a "very serious" infraction. The potential fines range between 3,000 and 30,000 euros ($3,200 to $32,100), while they could also lose their licenses to play altogether, for up to five years. The decision on a potential punishment would be made by Spain's top sports court at the request of the CSD. Spain play Sweden on September 22 and Switzerland on September 26 in the Nations League. The eventual finalists of the Nations League will qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

6 woman Spain players, including 5 on strike, join squad in Madrid amid punishment warning under law

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is starting to feel the heat from frustrated fans of the Red Devils after a disastrous start to the season has left hopes of Premier League glory already looking forlorn.

For the first time in the Premier League era United have lost three of their opening five games and face a daunting task to open their Champions League campaign away to Bayern Munich on Wednesday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-jenni-hermoso-in-spain-squad-uefa-womens-nations-league-637277">No Jenni Hermoso in Spain squad UEFA Women’s Nation’s League</a>

Ten Hag had been sheltered from criticism in the early weeks of the campaign as supporters concentrated their anger towards a series of off-field issues.

Despite the fans' desire to see them gone, the Glazer family appear to have put a process to sell the club on hold.

Brazilian winger Antony has been given a leave of absence to fight domestic abuse allegations made by his ex-girlfriend.

Meanwhile, United decided Mason Greenwood had no future at Old Trafford last month despite abuse charges against the 21-year-old being dropped.

Ten Hag was credited for returning United to the Champions League by finishing third in the Premier League last season and ending the club's six-year trophy drought by winning the League Cup.

However, he was the target for a chorus of boos when he substituted new signing Rasmus Hojlund midway through the second-half of Saturday's 3-1 home defeat to Brighton.

The Dutch coach tried to spin that moment into a positive show of support for Hojlund, who was making his home debut after a £64 million ($79 million) move from Atalanta.

The Dane has only recently returned to fitness and Ten Hag could ill afford to lose another key player by forcing him to play 90 minutes too soon.

But United's bet on the 20-year&nbsp;coming good in the long run could face a backlash should they be undone by Harry Kane in Germany.

Despite their need for a striker, United never tested Tottenham's resolve for the England captain, who instead joined Bayern in a 100 million euro ($110 million, £86 million) deal.

Kane has hit the ground running with four goals in as many starts, while Hojlund is yet to find the net for United.

<h2>Sancho disciplined</h2>

To add to United's woes going forward, winger Jadon Sancho is also absent from first-team action due to a spat with his manager.

Sancho, who cost £73 million from Borussia Dortmund just two years ago, has been ordered to train on his own after claiming he was a "scapegoat" when Ten Hag criticised his poor performances in training.

Ten Hag's disciplinarian streak was heralded as part of his success in his first season as even Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford were not afforded special treatment.

The United boss is yet to face much fan fury for his latest stance as Sancho has failed to live up to his price tag.

But that decision has upped the pressure on Ten Hag to lift the mood around the club with an upturn in results on the pitch.

With United already trailing local rivals Manchester City by nine points in the Premier League, making an impact on the Champions League is even more vital to the success or failure of Ten Hag's second season.

"It's about character," said Ten Hag, ahead of his return to Munich, where he coached the Bayern B team between 2013 and 2015.

"Now we have to see how strong we are, how the team sticks together and which players are standing up and showing the character and leading the team."

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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is starting to feel the heat from frustrated fans of the Red Devils after a disastrous start to the season has left hopes of Premier League glory already looking forlorn.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is starting to feel the heat from frustrated fans of the Red Devils after a disastrous start to the season has left hopes of Premier League glory already looking forlorn. For the first time in the Premier League era United have lost three of their opening five games and face a daunting task to open their Champions League campaign away to Bayern Munich on Wednesday. Also Read: No Jenni Hermoso in Spain squad UEFA Women’s Nation’s League Ten Hag had been sheltered from criticism in the early weeks of the campaign as supporters concentrated their anger towards a series of off-field issues. Despite the fans' desire to see them gone, the Glazer family appear to have put a process to sell the club on hold. Brazilian winger Antony has been given a leave of absence to fight domestic abuse allegations made by his ex-girlfriend. Meanwhile, United decided Mason Greenwood had no future at Old Trafford last month despite abuse charges against the 21-year-old being dropped. Ten Hag was credited for returning United to the Champions League by finishing third in the Premier League last season and ending the club's six-year trophy drought by winning the League Cup. However, he was the target for a chorus of boos when he substituted new signing Rasmus Hojlund midway through the second-half of Saturday's 3-1 home defeat to Brighton. The Dutch coach tried to spin that moment into a positive show of support for Hojlund, who was making his home debut after a £64 million ($79 million) move from Atalanta. The Dane has only recently returned to fitness and Ten Hag could ill afford to lose another key player by forcing him to play 90 minutes too soon. But United's bet on the 20-year coming good in the long run could face a backlash should they be undone by Harry Kane in Germany. Despite their need for a striker, United never tested Tottenham's resolve for the England captain, who instead joined Bayern in a 100 million euro ($110 million, £86 million) deal. Kane has hit the ground running with four goals in as many starts, while Hojlund is yet to find the net for United. Sancho disciplined To add to United's woes going forward, winger Jadon Sancho is also absent from first-team action due to a spat with his manager. Sancho, who cost £73 million from Borussia Dortmund just two years ago, has been ordered to train on his own after claiming he was a "scapegoat" when Ten Hag criticised his poor performances in training. Ten Hag's disciplinarian streak was heralded as part of his success in his first season as even Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford were not afforded special treatment. The United boss is yet to face much fan fury for his latest stance as Sancho has failed to live up to his price tag. But that decision has upped the pressure on Ten Hag to lift the mood around the club with an upturn in results on the pitch. With United already trailing local rivals Manchester City by nine points in the Premier League, making an impact on the Champions League is even more vital to the success or failure of Ten Hag's second season. "It's about character," said Ten Hag, ahead of his return to Munich, where he coached the Bayern B team between 2013 and 2015. "Now we have to see how strong we are, how the team sticks together and which players are standing up and showing the character and leading the team." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Manchester United boss Ten Hag under pressure ahead of Bayern clash in Champions League

With the landmark 10th season of the Indian Super League (ISL) set to kick off on September 21st, FSDL has unveiled this seasons campaigns that seek to celebrate the growth of Indian football in the past decade. 
&nbsp; 
The national campaign, ‘Celebrating 10 years of the Indian Super League’, uses the metaphor of a ball that’s growing in size as it rolls &amp; bounces through the country, to signify the growth of Indian Football. A young boy chases the football with enthusiasm as fans join him in the journey, symbolizing the growing interest of young India in choosing football as their preferred sport.&nbsp;

In its 10-year journey, the ISL has played a game-changing role in making football a sport that is played all over India with passionate fan bases that exist beyond the traditional centers of football in the country.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spains-high-court-impose-restraining-order-on-luis-rubiales-as-he-testifies-in-kiss-row-636363">Spain's High Court imposes restraining order on Luis Rubiales as he testifies in kiss row</a> 
&nbsp; 
On the 10th year campaign, an ISL spokesperson said, “ISL has been a stronger supporter of growing football across the country and the campaign for ISL Season 10 is a reflection of that. Fans across the country have taken to league and are the bedrock to the success of the league and the teams that. The focus has always been about going deep into the hinterlands of India, and encourage the adoption of football as young as 5 years, through the partnership with Reliance Foundation.” 
&nbsp; 
The ISL is a shining example of the enduring power of football to unite a nation and inspire a generation to fall in love with the beautiful game. The campaign tries to capture this impact in its multiple versions. 
&nbsp; 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The Kolkata films featuring Mohun Bagan Super Giant ‘Mon Amar Sobuj Maroon Bole’ and East Bengal Football Club ‘Jwolbe Buke Moshal Abar’ pay tribute to the unwavering spirit and die-hard loyalty of the fans of the two legacy clubs with a rich history that makes their rivalry one of the most cherished and historic ones in the sporting universe. The MBSG promo pays ode to the iconic boatman from the Mohun Bagan Super Giant logo and celebrates how the team has remained unshakeable in the face of various challenges, while the EBFC promo showcases the burning torch from the EB logo to signify the flames that burn deep in their spirit. &nbsp;Both campaigns showcase the Bengal fans and celebrate their love for their teams.&nbsp;

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The Kerala film is dedicated to the never-say-die attitude of Kerala Blasters as well as their dedicated fans, which is reflected in their war cry of ‘Vittukodukkila’. The promo features Kerala Blasters stars such as Jeakson Singh, Rahul KP, Adrian Luna, Vibin Mohanan, Sachin Suresh, and Pritam Kotal. It also captures how the fans have always had the back of the team irrespective of results and how the team has mounted many memorable comebacks over the years.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The North East film, ‘Stronger Together’ creates a proud reflection of the people of North East and celebrates their love for the game and the bond around football that unites its people with their club. When they come together, they become a formidable force to reckon with for the fiercest of opponents. NEUFC isn’t just represented by the eleven players who take to the field, but is fuelled by every bated breath, every sigh, every tear, and every scream of their fans.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Agency Credits: 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;10 years of celebrating the Indian Super League - Leo Burnett, South Asia 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Vittukodukilla - McCann Worldgroup, Chennai 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mon Amar Sobuj Maroon Bole and Jwolbe Buke Moshal Abar - Wunderman Thompson, Kolkata 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Stronger Together – Ogilvy, Mumbai 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
The tenth season of the ISL kicks off with Kerala Blasters hosting former champions Bengaluru FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on September 21, 2023.

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With the landmark 10th season of the Indian Super League (ISL) set to kick off on September 21st, FSDL has unveiled this seasons campaigns that seek to celebrate the growth of Indian football in the past decade.

With the landmark 10th season of the Indian Super League (ISL) set to kick off on September 21st, FSDL has unveiled this seasons campaigns that seek to celebrate the growth of Indian football in the past decade. The national campaign, ‘Celebrating 10 years of the Indian Super League’, uses the metaphor of a ball that’s growing in size as it rolls & bounces through the country, to signify the growth of Indian Football. A young boy chases the football with enthusiasm as fans join him in the journey, symbolizing the growing interest of young India in choosing football as their preferred sport. In its 10-year journey, the ISL has played a game-changing role in making football a sport that is played all over India with passionate fan bases that exist beyond the traditional centers of football in the country. ALSO READ: Spain's High Court imposes restraining order on Luis Rubiales as he testifies in kiss row On the 10th year campaign, an ISL spokesperson said, “ISL has been a stronger supporter of growing football across the country and the campaign for ISL Season 10 is a reflection of that. Fans across the country have taken to league and are the bedrock to the success of the league and the teams that. The focus has always been about going deep into the hinterlands of India, and encourage the adoption of football as young as 5 years, through the partnership with Reliance Foundation.” The ISL is a shining example of the enduring power of football to unite a nation and inspire a generation to fall in love with the beautiful game. The campaign tries to capture this impact in its multiple versions. • The Kolkata films featuring Mohun Bagan Super Giant ‘Mon Amar Sobuj Maroon Bole’ and East Bengal Football Club ‘Jwolbe Buke Moshal Abar’ pay tribute to the unwavering spirit and die-hard loyalty of the fans of the two legacy clubs with a rich history that makes their rivalry one of the most cherished and historic ones in the sporting universe. The MBSG promo pays ode to the iconic boatman from the Mohun Bagan Super Giant logo and celebrates how the team has remained unshakeable in the face of various challenges, while the EBFC promo showcases the burning torch from the EB logo to signify the flames that burn deep in their spirit. Both campaigns showcase the Bengal fans and celebrate their love for their teams. • The Kerala film is dedicated to the never-say-die attitude of Kerala Blasters as well as their dedicated fans, which is reflected in their war cry of ‘Vittukodukkila’. The promo features Kerala Blasters stars such as Jeakson Singh, Rahul KP, Adrian Luna, Vibin Mohanan, Sachin Suresh, and Pritam Kotal. It also captures how the fans have always had the back of the team irrespective of results and how the team has mounted many memorable comebacks over the years. • The North East film, ‘Stronger Together’ creates a proud reflection of the people of North East and celebrates their love for the game and the bond around football that unites its people with their club. When they come together, they become a formidable force to reckon with for the fiercest of opponents. NEUFC isn’t just represented by the eleven players who take to the field, but is fuelled by every bated breath, every sigh, every tear, and every scream of their fans. Agency Credits: • 10 years of celebrating the Indian Super League - Leo Burnett, South Asia • Vittukodukilla - McCann Worldgroup, Chennai • Mon Amar Sobuj Maroon Bole and Jwolbe Buke Moshal Abar - Wunderman Thompson, Kolkata • Stronger Together – Ogilvy, Mumbai The tenth season of the ISL kicks off with Kerala Blasters hosting former champions Bengaluru FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi on September 21, 2023. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ISL 2023-24 celebrates the growth of Indian football in landmark 10th-year campaign

Former Spanish soccer chief Luis Rubiales will appear before a High Court judge on Friday over a complaint of sexual assault stemming from his allegedly unsolicited kiss on the lips of player Jenni Hermoso - an incident that has triggered a furore over sexism in Spanish sport and society.

The events of Aug. 20 eclipsed the national women team's World Cup victory in Sydney and led to protests similar to the Me Too movement, prompting other women to come forward with reports of sexist treatment and assaults.

It also sent a shudder through the male-dominated ranks of Spain's&nbsp;football&nbsp;establishment. Rubiales, 46, has maintained that the kiss was mutual and consensual. After weeks of resisting calls for him to step down as president of the Royal Spanish&nbsp;Football&nbsp;Federation (RFEF), Rubiales, already suspended by FIFA, finally quit on Sept. 10.

But he remains unrepentant. "I am a good person, that in a moment of maximum happiness, with consent, asking beforehand...In truth, there can be no other intention than the celebration and the joy itself," he told British television interviewer Piers Morgan on Sunday.

He likened the celebratory atmosphere in Sydney to winning a lottery or seeing a war ending, situations in which he said "people don't ask permissions". Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Diaz has called his actions "shameful" and said they showed that male chauvinsim was stil systemic in Spanish society.

On Sept. 8, prosecutor Marta Durantez Gil filed a complaint with the High Court against Rubiales after Hermoso told prosecutors that Rubiales kissed her on the mouth without her consent while holding her head with both hands at the medals ceremony.

The prosecutor added a possible crime of coercion after Hermoso said she and her relatives were put under pressure by Rubiales and his entourage to say that she "justified and approved what happened".

Judge Francisco de Jorge is in charge of an investigation that has to precede any formal charges under Spanish law, and will decide whether the case will go to trial. If it does, he could face between one and four years imprisonment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/three-real-madrid-players-arrested-over-sexual-video-involving-minor-636072">Three Real Madrid players arrested over sexual video involving minor</a>

De Jorge has ordered several media, including state broadcaster TVE, to send him footage of the incident and subsequent videos such as one of the players celebrating on a bus with Rubiales and referring to the kiss in what appeared to be a light-hearted manner. The investigation could take several months.

Friday's hearing is behind closed doors. The legal case will also be a public test of the leftist coalition government's flagship "Solo si es si" (Only yes is yes) law that puts consent at the heart of sexual relations.

Many players, sports bodies and politicians have backed Hermoso in a campaign coalescing around the hashtag #SeAcabó (It’s Over) on social media, showing the nation's increasing intolerance to abuse.

Spain's top 87 female players, including the 23 world champions, have refused to play for the national team until there are changes in the RFEF management line-up and style. The RFEF has since sacked women's team coach Jorge Vilda, appointing his assistant Montse Tome instead as the first woman at its helm.

Striker Olga Carmona said this week that the players were yet to determine if changes were enough for them to return to the team.

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Former Spanish soccer chief Luis Rubiales will appear before a High Court judge on Friday over a complaint of sexual assault stemming from his allegedly unsolicited kiss on the lips of player Jenni Hermoso - an incident that has triggered a furore over sexism in Spanish sport and society.

Former Spanish soccer chief Luis Rubiales will appear before a High Court judge on Friday over a complaint of sexual assault stemming from his allegedly unsolicited kiss on the lips of player Jenni Hermoso - an incident that has triggered a furore over sexism in Spanish sport and society. The events of Aug. 20 eclipsed the national women team's World Cup victory in Sydney and led to protests similar to the Me Too movement, prompting other women to come forward with reports of sexist treatment and assaults. It also sent a shudder through the male-dominated ranks of Spain's football establishment. Rubiales, 46, has maintained that the kiss was mutual and consensual. After weeks of resisting calls for him to step down as president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Rubiales, already suspended by FIFA, finally quit on Sept. 10. But he remains unrepentant. "I am a good person, that in a moment of maximum happiness, with consent, asking beforehand...In truth, there can be no other intention than the celebration and the joy itself," he told British television interviewer Piers Morgan on Sunday. He likened the celebratory atmosphere in Sydney to winning a lottery or seeing a war ending, situations in which he said "people don't ask permissions". Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Diaz has called his actions "shameful" and said they showed that male chauvinsim was stil systemic in Spanish society. On Sept. 8, prosecutor Marta Durantez Gil filed a complaint with the High Court against Rubiales after Hermoso told prosecutors that Rubiales kissed her on the mouth without her consent while holding her head with both hands at the medals ceremony. The prosecutor added a possible crime of coercion after Hermoso said she and her relatives were put under pressure by Rubiales and his entourage to say that she "justified and approved what happened". Judge Francisco de Jorge is in charge of an investigation that has to precede any formal charges under Spanish law, and will decide whether the case will go to trial. If it does, he could face between one and four years imprisonment. Also read: Three Real Madrid players arrested over sexual video involving minor De Jorge has ordered several media, including state broadcaster TVE, to send him footage of the incident and subsequent videos such as one of the players celebrating on a bus with Rubiales and referring to the kiss in what appeared to be a light-hearted manner. The investigation could take several months. Friday's hearing is behind closed doors. The legal case will also be a public test of the leftist coalition government's flagship "Solo si es si" (Only yes is yes) law that puts consent at the heart of sexual relations. Many players, sports bodies and politicians have backed Hermoso in a campaign coalescing around the hashtag #SeAcabó (It’s Over) on social media, showing the nation's increasing intolerance to abuse. Spain's top 87 female players, including the 23 world champions, have refused to play for the national team until there are changes in the RFEF management line-up and style. The RFEF has since sacked women's team coach Jorge Vilda, appointing his assistant Montse Tome instead as the first woman at its helm. Striker Olga Carmona said this week that the players were yet to determine if changes were enough for them to return to the team. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Former Spanish soccer chief Luis Rubiales due in court in sex assault investigation

Leonardo Bonucci has confirmed that he is taking legal action against Juventus, claiming that the Serie A club has not told the truth about their treatment of him after he was frozen out and eventually sold over the summer.

Veteran defender Bonucci, who has won a host of trophies with club and country over his long career, was shunted aside by Juve in pre-season, missing out on July's tour in the USA and training away from the first team. And the 36-year-old said he had made the "hard decision" to sue the club for which he played over 500 times and won eight league titles for what he considers "humiliating" treatment.

"It's a decision that's been a long time coming and is due to the fact that I've read and heard a lot of things that aren't true," said Bonucci in an interview with Mediaset released on Thursday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-qualifiers-marquinhos-earns-brazil-late-win-over-peru-635818">FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Marquinhos earns Brazil late win over Peru</a>

Bonucci, who signed for Union Berlin last month, claims he was only told in mid-July that he was no longer in Juve's plans, contrary to the club's version of events in which he was told twice, in October last year and February.

"I didn't have any discussion with the club on that date, nor did I with the coach (Massimiliano Allegri), who called me into his office at the end of March... he told me in his way that I should quit at the end of June because I wanted to be a coach so I needed to speed things up," Bonucci added.

"I told him that I respected his decision but that I intended to play on until at least the end of the European Championship next year. The conversation ended there."

<h2>- 'Holding Juve back' -</h2>

Bonucci claims that he was then told by Juve after their last home match of last season that he would be fifth or sixth choice for the coming campaign, and says his reply was "no problem".

He says he then heard nothing from the club until a home visit in from sporting directors Giovanni Manna and Cristiano Giuntoli who told him that his "presence in the dressing room was holding Juve back".

"I am simply asserting my rights provided for in (professional football's) collective bargaining agreement... which says players should be put in the condition to train with the team, regardless of any selection decisions, and have the right to acceptable physical preparation for the coming season," said Bonucci.&nbsp;

"I wasn't given that... I wasn't given the chance to go out onto the training field with my own teammates, take part in training matches. I felt empty and humiliated, and not put in the condition to do what I love most and that's play football."

Bonucci, who says he will donate any proceeds from his legal action to charity, was also left out of Luciano Spalletti's first Italy squad this month, losing his captaincy of the national team.

He was Azzurri skipper under former coach Roberto Mancini following the retirement of Giorgio Chiellini last year, and became a national hero in 2021 as a key part of the team which won the last European Championship.

Last month Juve denied claims by the head of the player's union, Umberto Calcagno, that Bonucci's "dignity is being trampled on".

Juve defended the "legitimacy of its actions towards all registered players who are recognised and are fully guaranteed all the rights" agreed in football's collective bargaining agreement.

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Leonardo Bonucci has confirmed that he is taking legal action against Juventus, claiming that the Serie A club has not told the truth about their treatment of him after he was frozen out and eventually sold over the summer.

Leonardo Bonucci has confirmed that he is taking legal action against Juventus, claiming that the Serie A club has not told the truth about their treatment of him after he was frozen out and eventually sold over the summer. Veteran defender Bonucci, who has won a host of trophies with club and country over his long career, was shunted aside by Juve in pre-season, missing out on July's tour in the USA and training away from the first team. And the 36-year-old said he had made the "hard decision" to sue the club for which he played over 500 times and won eight league titles for what he considers "humiliating" treatment. "It's a decision that's been a long time coming and is due to the fact that I've read and heard a lot of things that aren't true," said Bonucci in an interview with Mediaset released on Thursday. ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Marquinhos earns Brazil late win over Peru Bonucci, who signed for Union Berlin last month, claims he was only told in mid-July that he was no longer in Juve's plans, contrary to the club's version of events in which he was told twice, in October last year and February. "I didn't have any discussion with the club on that date, nor did I with the coach (Massimiliano Allegri), who called me into his office at the end of March... he told me in his way that I should quit at the end of June because I wanted to be a coach so I needed to speed things up," Bonucci added. "I told him that I respected his decision but that I intended to play on until at least the end of the European Championship next year. The conversation ended there." - 'Holding Juve back' - Bonucci claims that he was then told by Juve after their last home match of last season that he would be fifth or sixth choice for the coming campaign, and says his reply was "no problem". He says he then heard nothing from the club until a home visit in from sporting directors Giovanni Manna and Cristiano Giuntoli who told him that his "presence in the dressing room was holding Juve back". "I am simply asserting my rights provided for in (professional football's) collective bargaining agreement... which says players should be put in the condition to train with the team, regardless of any selection decisions, and have the right to acceptable physical preparation for the coming season," said Bonucci. "I wasn't given that... I wasn't given the chance to go out onto the training field with my own teammates, take part in training matches. I felt empty and humiliated, and not put in the condition to do what I love most and that's play football." Bonucci, who says he will donate any proceeds from his legal action to charity, was also left out of Luciano Spalletti's first Italy squad this month, losing his captaincy of the national team. He was Azzurri skipper under former coach Roberto Mancini following the retirement of Giorgio Chiellini last year, and became a national hero in 2021 as a key part of the team which won the last European Championship. Last month Juve denied claims by the head of the player's union, Umberto Calcagno, that Bonucci's "dignity is being trampled on". Juve defended the "legitimacy of its actions towards all registered players who are recognised and are fully guaranteed all the rights" agreed in football's collective bargaining agreement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Leonardo Bonucci to take legal action against former club Juventus over 'humiliating' treatment

Jude Bellingham stole the show with a goal and assist as England extended their 24-year unbeaten run against Scotland in a 3-1 friendly win to mark the 150th anniversary of the first meeting between the nations.

Phil Foden and Harry Kane were also on target as the Three Lions tamed the roar of Hampden Park and Scotland's five-game winning streak on Tuesday.

The hosts had high hopes of a famous victory in football's oldest international fixture after impressive wins over Spain and Erling Haaland's Norway in recent months to close in on qualifying for Euro 2024.

But Scotland suffered a sobering evening as England proved a class apart.

Bellingham was the pick of Gareth Southgate's stars as the Real Madrid midfielder revelled in the number 10 role he has shone in for the Spanish giants in the early weeks of the season.

"It's just a freedom role really," said Bellingham. "I know it depends on the system we play and we've got so many amazing players to accommodate.

"The team comes first always. I really enjoyed playing in that position today."

Southgate hailed the 116th clash between the sides as the renewal of a "great sporting rivalry" on the eve of the game.

However, the ugly side of the animosity between the two sets of supporters was on show even before a ball was kicked.

After the English national anthem was drowned out by a chorus of booing, a minute's silence for former Scotland manager Craig Brown was disrupted by the away fans.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-spinners-headline-low-scoring-affair-as-india-register-41-run-win-to-book-place-in-sundays-final-635405">Asia Cup: Spinners headline low-scoring affair as India register 41-run win to book place in Sunday's final</a>

<h2>Scotland suffer more</h2>

Once the action got underway Scotland were second best, even if it took England over half an hour to make their dominance show in the scoreline.

"We knew playing against England was going to be difficult but if you want to learn as a team, you have to play against the best teams," said Scotland boss Steve Clarke.

"We didn't want to lose to our old enemy, but sometimes in football you have to take your medicine."

Southgate questioned in his pre-match comments whether Foden has a future in central midfield.

But he ghosted in to a central position from his starting role out on the right to score just his fourth international goal to break the deadlock.

Fresh from scoring his first England goal against Ukraine, Kyle Walker was this time the creator as his driven cross was expertly turned home by his Manchester City teammate.

Just two minutes later, Scotland's hope was extinguished by a self-inflicted blow.

Andy Robertson's loose touch inside his own box presented Bellingham with an opportunity he was never going to miss in current form.

The 20-year-old has taken the Spanish capital by storm since joining from Borussia Dortmund and now has six goals in as many games for club and country this season.

Scotland upped their intensity after the break and got their reward through another moment to forget for Harry Maguire.

The under-fire Manchester United centre-back turned Robertson's cross into his own net 23 minutes from time.

John McGinn then headed a glorious chance over to equalise.

But England soon regained their grip on the game with Bellingham pulling the strings in midfield.

Angus Gunn produced a fine save to deny substitute Eberechi Eze his first international goal.

But the Norwich goalkeeper was powerless to stop Kane slotting home his 59th after a slaloming run from Bellingham opened up the Scotland defence.

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Jude Bellingham stole the show with a goal and assist as England extended their 24-year unbeaten run against Scotland in a 3-1 friendly win to mark the 150th anniversary of the first meeting between the nations.

Jude Bellingham stole the show with a goal and assist as England extended their 24-year unbeaten run against Scotland in a 3-1 friendly win to mark the 150th anniversary of the first meeting between the nations. Phil Foden and Harry Kane were also on target as the Three Lions tamed the roar of Hampden Park and Scotland's five-game winning streak on Tuesday. The hosts had high hopes of a famous victory in football's oldest international fixture after impressive wins over Spain and Erling Haaland's Norway in recent months to close in on qualifying for Euro 2024. But Scotland suffered a sobering evening as England proved a class apart. Bellingham was the pick of Gareth Southgate's stars as the Real Madrid midfielder revelled in the number 10 role he has shone in for the Spanish giants in the early weeks of the season. "It's just a freedom role really," said Bellingham. "I know it depends on the system we play and we've got so many amazing players to accommodate. "The team comes first always. I really enjoyed playing in that position today." Southgate hailed the 116th clash between the sides as the renewal of a "great sporting rivalry" on the eve of the game. However, the ugly side of the animosity between the two sets of supporters was on show even before a ball was kicked. After the English national anthem was drowned out by a chorus of booing, a minute's silence for former Scotland manager Craig Brown was disrupted by the away fans. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Spinners headline low-scoring affair as India register 41-run win to book place in Sunday's final Scotland suffer more Once the action got underway Scotland were second best, even if it took England over half an hour to make their dominance show in the scoreline. "We knew playing against England was going to be difficult but if you want to learn as a team, you have to play against the best teams," said Scotland boss Steve Clarke. "We didn't want to lose to our old enemy, but sometimes in football you have to take your medicine." Southgate questioned in his pre-match comments whether Foden has a future in central midfield. But he ghosted in to a central position from his starting role out on the right to score just his fourth international goal to break the deadlock. Fresh from scoring his first England goal against Ukraine, Kyle Walker was this time the creator as his driven cross was expertly turned home by his Manchester City teammate. Just two minutes later, Scotland's hope was extinguished by a self-inflicted blow. Andy Robertson's loose touch inside his own box presented Bellingham with an opportunity he was never going to miss in current form. The 20-year-old has taken the Spanish capital by storm since joining from Borussia Dortmund and now has six goals in as many games for club and country this season. Scotland upped their intensity after the break and got their reward through another moment to forget for Harry Maguire. The under-fire Manchester United centre-back turned Robertson's cross into his own net 23 minutes from time. John McGinn then headed a glorious chance over to equalise. But England soon regained their grip on the game with Bellingham pulling the strings in midfield. Angus Gunn produced a fine save to deny substitute Eberechi Eze his first international goal. But the Norwich goalkeeper was powerless to stop Kane slotting home his 59th after a slaloming run from Bellingham opened up the Scotland defence. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Jude Bellingham shines brightest as England inflict more pain on Scotland in historic friendly win

French World Cup winner Paul Pogba could be banned from football for up to four years after testing positive for elevated levels of testosterone. The Juventus midfielder has been provisionally suspended by Italy's national doping tribunal.

2018 World Cup Winner Paul Pogba in danger of four-year ban after failing dope test

Controversial former Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) chief Luis Rubiales has been summoned on Tuesday, September 12 by the Spanish authorities to appear before the court. Rubiales is facing trial in the Jenni Hermoso kiss controversy after the conclusion of the Women’s World Cup final in Australia in August. Rubiales, who resigned from his post on Sunday, has been asked to appear before the court on Friday.

<h2>Rubiales summoned</h2>

Rubiales, 46, has been summoned to appear at 1200 local time (2:30 PM IST) before an examining magistrate "to be heard as an accused" and to respond to accusations of "sexual assault", a Madrid court said in a statement Tuesday.&nbsp;

Rubiales has been subject to heavy criticism from the Spanish media and politicians after he caught the attention of the world. Rubiales received heavy criticism for kissing Hermoso in the post-match ceremony. He had initially refused to resign from his post.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also deemed the 46-year-old’s action inappropriate.

"I have faith in the truth and I will do everything in my power so that it prevails," Rubiales wrote in an open letter on Sunday evening.

Judge Francisco de Jorge of the National Court admitted a complaint against Rubiales on Monday filed by Spanish prosecutors last week regarding alleged "crimes of sexual assault and "coercion".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-rohit-sharma-becomes-sixth-indian-to-complete-10000-odi-runs-during-ind-sl-super-four-clash-635230">Asia Cup: Rohit Sharma becomes sixth Indian to complete 10,000 ODI runs during Ind-SL Super Four clash</a>

In a dramatic turn of events in the last 48 hours, Rubiales resigned from his office while Hermoso returned to training for the first time since the World Cup.

She had accused the RFEF chief of forcefully kissing her during the presentation ceremony when Spain beat England in the final.

Spain won the contest 1-0 at in Sydney as they became the second nation to win both the men’s and women’s World Cup after Germany.

Hermoso had criticised the actions of the former Spanish chief’s action, terming it as "vulnerable and like the victim of an assault.”

She even came out on social media and wrote "an impulsive, macho act, out of place and with no type of consent on my part,” in regards to the controversy that has erupted in Spanish football.

Hermoso will be expected to soon come back in action when she resumes playing for Mexican club Pachuca.

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Controversial former Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) chief Luis Rubiales has been summoned on Tuesday, September 12 by the Spanish authorities to appear before the court.

Controversial former Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) chief Luis Rubiales has been summoned on Tuesday, September 12 by the Spanish authorities to appear before the court. Rubiales is facing trial in the Jenni Hermoso kiss controversy after the conclusion of the Women’s World Cup final in Australia in August. Rubiales, who resigned from his post on Sunday, has been asked to appear before the court on Friday. Rubiales summoned Rubiales, 46, has been summoned to appear at 1200 local time (2:30 PM IST) before an examining magistrate "to be heard as an accused" and to respond to accusations of "sexual assault", a Madrid court said in a statement Tuesday. Rubiales has been subject to heavy criticism from the Spanish media and politicians after he caught the attention of the world. Rubiales received heavy criticism for kissing Hermoso in the post-match ceremony. He had initially refused to resign from his post. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also deemed the 46-year-old’s action inappropriate. "I have faith in the truth and I will do everything in my power so that it prevails," Rubiales wrote in an open letter on Sunday evening. Judge Francisco de Jorge of the National Court admitted a complaint against Rubiales on Monday filed by Spanish prosecutors last week regarding alleged "crimes of sexual assault and "coercion". ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Rohit Sharma becomes sixth Indian to complete 10,000 ODI runs during Ind-SL Super Four clash In a dramatic turn of events in the last 48 hours, Rubiales resigned from his office while Hermoso returned to training for the first time since the World Cup. She had accused the RFEF chief of forcefully kissing her during the presentation ceremony when Spain beat England in the final. Spain won the contest 1-0 at in Sydney as they became the second nation to win both the men’s and women’s World Cup after Germany. Hermoso had criticised the actions of the former Spanish chief’s action, terming it as "vulnerable and like the victim of an assault.” She even came out on social media and wrote "an impulsive, macho act, out of place and with no type of consent on my part,” in regards to the controversy that has erupted in Spanish football. Hermoso will be expected to soon come back in action when she resumes playing for Mexican club Pachuca. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Spanish court summons Luis Rubiales in kiss controversy; asked to appear on Friday

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