Former Nigeria international John Obi Mikel has quit Turkish football club Trabzonspor, the team said, after the former Chelsea midfielder said he did not want to play as the new coronavirus spread worldwide.

"The contract has been ended by mutual agreement with John Obi Mikel," Trabzonspor said in a statement late Tuesday.

The deal between the player and the team had begun on June 30 last year and was meant to last until May 31, 2021.

He criticised the Turkish Football Federation's (TFF) move to let Super League matches continue without spectators, unlike in other countries where games have been suspended.

"There is more to life than football. I do not feel comfortable and don't want to play football in this situation," Obi Mikel wrote on Instagram on Saturday.

"Everyone should be home with their families and loved ones in this critical time. Season should be cancelled as the world is facing such turbulent times," he added.

The 32-year-old played for Chelsea for over 10 years. He retired from international duty after last year's Africa Cup of Nations after making 89 appearances for Nigeria.

The TFF on Tuesday rejected growing calls for matches to be suspended.

Among those opposed to any delay of Super League matches is Trabzonspor chief Ahmet Agaoglu who said any decision to cancel would lead to a rise in divorces.

Trabzonspor -- one of the major non-Istanbul-based clubs -- are currently at the top of Turkey's Super League.&nbsp;

Turkey confirmed its first novel coronavirus-related death on Tuesday as the number of cases in the country rose to 98.

Former Nigeria international John Obi Mikel has quit Turkish football club Trabzonspor, the team said, after the former Chelsea midfielder said he did not want to play as the new coronavirus spread worldwide.

Former Nigeria international John Obi Mikel has quit Turkish football club Trabzonspor, the team said, after the former Chelsea midfielder said he did not want to play as the new coronavirus spread worldwide. "The contract has been ended by mutual agreement with John Obi Mikel," Trabzonspor said in a statement late Tuesday. The deal between the player and the team had begun on June 30 last year and was meant to last until May 31, 2021. He criticised the Turkish Football Federation's (TFF) move to let Super League matches continue without spectators, unlike in other countries where games have been suspended. "There is more to life than football. I do not feel comfortable and don't want to play football in this situation," Obi Mikel wrote on Instagram on Saturday. "Everyone should be home with their families and loved ones in this critical time. Season should be cancelled as the world is facing such turbulent times," he added. The 32-year-old played for Chelsea for over 10 years. He retired from international duty after last year's Africa Cup of Nations after making 89 appearances for Nigeria. The TFF on Tuesday rejected growing calls for matches to be suspended. Among those opposed to any delay of Super League matches is Trabzonspor chief Ahmet Agaoglu who said any decision to cancel would lead to a rise in divorces. Trabzonspor -- one of the major non-Istanbul-based clubs -- are currently at the top of Turkey's Super League. Turkey confirmed its first novel coronavirus-related death on Tuesday as the number of cases in the country rose to 98.

Footballer John Obi Mikel leaves Turkish team over coronavirus fears

With controversy surrounding the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Qatar doesn't seem to end. With the 'supreme committee', which is organising the mega event, announcing that as many as nine migrant labourers, working on stadiums for the quadrennial event, lost their lives in the year 2019, the pressure seems to be growing on the organisers. The latest report has now brought up the number of deaths on FIFA World Cup 2020 projects to 34 since the construction began six years back.

As many as 31 deaths have been bracketed under 'non-work related' – a term the supreme committee uses for deaths outside worksite. As per its latest annual report on workers' welfare, there were no deaths at the workplace in 2019. However, three were killed in a bus accident with others breathing their last due to 'natural causes'.

“Any loss of life on our programme is deeply saddening,” said Hassan Al Thawadi, the head of the supreme committee, in the report.

As per the norms, Qatari law and supreme committee's worker welfate standards need not pay compensation for non-work related deaths, however, as per a report in the Guardian, Qatar hardly carries out post-mortem after a migrant worker's death.

Moreover, there have been calls to reform pay-scale laws and the labour system. However, workers’ rights activists have criticised the lack of progress with less than three years to go before the World Cup kicks off. However, FIFA has stated that the 2022 World Cup has already played a major role in improving labour rights in Qatar while adding: “additional progress is needed for the full implementation of the commitments for comprehensive labour reform.”

With controversy surrounding the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Qatar doesn't seem to end. With the 'supreme committee', which is organising the mega event, announcing that as many as nine migrant labourers, working on stadiums for the quadrennial event, lost their lives in the year 2019, the pressure seems to be growing on the organisers.

With controversy surrounding the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Qatar doesn't seem to end. With the 'supreme committee', which is organising the mega event, announcing that as many as nine migrant labourers, working on stadiums for the quadrennial event, lost their lives in the year 2019, the pressure seems to be growing on the organisers. The latest report has now brought up the number of deaths on FIFA World Cup 2020 projects to 34 since the construction began six years back. As many as 31 deaths have been bracketed under 'non-work related' – a term the supreme committee uses for deaths outside worksite. As per its latest annual report on workers' welfare, there were no deaths at the workplace in 2019. However, three were killed in a bus accident with others breathing their last due to 'natural causes'. “Any loss of life on our programme is deeply saddening,” said Hassan Al Thawadi, the head of the supreme committee, in the report. As per the norms, Qatari law and supreme committee's worker welfate standards need not pay compensation for non-work related deaths, however, as per a report in the Guardian, Qatar hardly carries out post-mortem after a migrant worker's death. Moreover, there have been calls to reform pay-scale laws and the labour system. However, workers’ rights activists have criticised the lack of progress with less than three years to go before the World Cup kicks off. However, FIFA has stated that the 2022 World Cup has already played a major role in improving labour rights in Qatar while adding: “additional progress is needed for the full implementation of the commitments for comprehensive labour reform.”

FIFA World Cup 2022: Report reveals 34 workers' death in 6 years in Qatar

With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar for the year 2020 has been shredded into pieces. While many leagues, tournaments and sporting events have been either postponed or cancelled, there were question marks whether the postponed football leagues would get completed in time.&nbsp;

Every top European leagues have been grounded to a halt due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic which put major question marks on whether it would be completed or not. UEFA on Tuesday held a crisis meeting in which it was decided that the Euro&nbsp;2020 will be postponed until 2021 and take place from June 11 to July 11, 2021.

The Norwegian FA broke the ranks on Tuesday as they announced that the showpiece tournament will be held in 2021. The latest development gives time for top European leagues including the UEFA Champions League and Europa League to get completed.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
UEFA har bestemt at EM utsettes til 2021. Det skal spilles fra 11. juni til 11. juli neste år. Mer informasjon kommer.
— NorgesFotballforbund (@nff_info) <a href="https://twitter.com/nff_info/status/1239888676517273601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2020</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>

At least, the Premier League can extend their season into the month of June or even the first couple of weeks of July while still allowing players time off before a fresh campaign begins in August.&nbsp;

The Euro&nbsp;was due to take place across Europe in Juny and July 2020 but will now be held on June 11 to July 11, 2021.

With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar for the year 2020 has been shredded into pieces. While many leagues, tournaments and sporting events have been either postponed or cancelled, there were question marks whether the postponed football leagues would get completed in time.

With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar for the year 2020 has been shredded into pieces. While many leagues, tournaments and sporting events have been either postponed or cancelled, there were question marks whether the postponed football leagues would get completed in time. Every top European leagues have been grounded to a halt due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic which put major question marks on whether it would be completed or not. UEFA on Tuesday held a crisis meeting in which it was decided that the Euro 2020 will be postponed until 2021 and take place from June 11 to July 11, 2021. The Norwegian FA broke the ranks on Tuesday as they announced that the showpiece tournament will be held in 2021. The latest development gives time for top European leagues including the UEFA Champions League and Europa League to get completed. UEFA har bestemt at EM utsettes til 2021. Det skal spilles fra 11. juni til 11. juli neste år. Mer informasjon kommer. — NorgesFotballforbund (@nff_info) March 17, 2020 × At least, the Premier League can extend their season into the month of June or even the first couple of weeks of July while still allowing players time off before a fresh campaign begins in August. The Euro was due to take place across Europe in Juny and July 2020 but will now be held on June 11 to July 11, 2021.

COVID-19 hits football: Euro 2020 postponed until 2021 amid coronavirus pandemic

A decision over whether to postpone football's Euro 2020 by up to a year, with all the sporting and financial consequences that would entail, is set to be made when UEFA holds a crisis meeting on Tuesday as Europe battles the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

European football's governing body will hold a videoconference with representatives from all 55 member associations as well as from clubs and players bodies. UEFA will then hold an executive committee meeting at 1400 (1300 GMT) at their Swiss headquarters.

The future of the European Championship, due to take place for the first time in 12 different cities spread across the continent from June 12 to July 12, is up in the air along with those of the Champions League and Europa League.

The "dark scenarios" that UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin warned against envisaging when he spoke at the organisation's congress in Amsterdam just two weeks ago now have to be considered.

All of Europe's leading domestic leagues ground to a halt last week, while UEFA suspended all Champions League and Europa League games due to be played this week. Both tournaments are still in the last-16 stage.

Europe has become the epicentre of the coronavirus pandemic, with Italy and Spain on lockdown, France gradually following suit, and other countries closing borders to halt the spread of the outbreak.&nbsp;

More than 1,800 people have died in Italy, which is supposed to host the opening game of Euro 2020 in Rome.

<h2>- Postponed for a year? -</h2>

The head of the Italian football federation, Gabriele Gravina, has already proposed that the Euro be postponed, with Italy coach Roberto Mancini calling for it to pushed back 12 months.

"We would have won the European Championship this summer, we can also win it in 2021," Mancini told television station Rai Sport.

It is a position that many around the continent are coming round to amid much uncertainty as to when club football can resume.

"UEFA has no choice. They have to postpone the Euro and the Champions League," one senior figure in the world game told AFP, although finding agreement across the board may not be easy.

"There are people who want to play, and others who don't," French football federation president Noel Le Graet told broadcaster TF1 on Sunday.

German broadcaster ZDF reported that two possible options are on the table for the European Championship.

One is to push it back to 2021, although that is not as simple as it might appear, as it would need FIFA president Gianni Infantino to agree to halting the inaugural edition of his highly lucrative Club World Cup, due to take place in June and July next year in China with some of Europe's top club sides involved.

FIFA offered "no comment" on Monday on the matter.

There is also the issue of the women's European Championship, scheduled to run from July 7 to August 1 next year in England, with the final at Wembley. The London venue is also supposed to hold the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020.

The alternative option, according to ZDF, is to maintain a Euro 2020 by playing it towards the end of the year.

<h2>- Financial stakes 'enormous' -</h2>

That supposes that the crisis will have calmed down by then, and there is also the issue of all the other football that has been suspended.

Le Graet said "it is probable" that all friendly matches scheduled to be played at the end of this month will be postponed. Play-off matches to decide the last four berths at Euro 2020 can be expected to go the same way.

In any case, world governing body FIFA has already moved to say that clubs no longer need to release players for the scheduled international dates.

They may come to a decision to try to complete the Champions League and Europa League by curtailing the competitions, meaning ties up to the semi-finals could be decided in one-off matches.

From a financial viewpoint, UEFA would undoubtedly prefer postponing their flagship tournaments to cancelling them altogether, or playing matches behind closed doors.

"The financial stakes are enormous," according to one senior figure in the international game. "We know that FIFA has significant reserves but we don't know about UEFA or the different leagues."

In any case, the European Leagues grouping of almost a thousand clubs in 29 countries across the continent warned that "cooperation, coordination and flexibility are going to be essential".

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

A decision over whether to postpone football's Euro 2020 by up to a year, with all the sporting and financial consequences that would entail, is set to be made when UEFA holds a crisis meeting on Tuesday as Europe battles the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

A decision over whether to postpone football's Euro 2020 by up to a year, with all the sporting and financial consequences that would entail, is set to be made when UEFA holds a crisis meeting on Tuesday as Europe battles the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. European football's governing body will hold a videoconference with representatives from all 55 member associations as well as from clubs and players bodies. UEFA will then hold an executive committee meeting at 1400 (1300 GMT) at their Swiss headquarters. The future of the European Championship, due to take place for the first time in 12 different cities spread across the continent from June 12 to July 12, is up in the air along with those of the Champions League and Europa League. The "dark scenarios" that UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin warned against envisaging when he spoke at the organisation's congress in Amsterdam just two weeks ago now have to be considered. All of Europe's leading domestic leagues ground to a halt last week, while UEFA suspended all Champions League and Europa League games due to be played this week. Both tournaments are still in the last-16 stage. Europe has become the epicentre of the coronavirus pandemic, with Italy and Spain on lockdown, France gradually following suit, and other countries closing borders to halt the spread of the outbreak. More than 1,800 people have died in Italy, which is supposed to host the opening game of Euro 2020 in Rome. - Postponed for a year? - The head of the Italian football federation, Gabriele Gravina, has already proposed that the Euro be postponed, with Italy coach Roberto Mancini calling for it to pushed back 12 months. "We would have won the European Championship this summer, we can also win it in 2021," Mancini told television station Rai Sport. It is a position that many around the continent are coming round to amid much uncertainty as to when club football can resume. "UEFA has no choice. They have to postpone the Euro and the Champions League," one senior figure in the world game told AFP, although finding agreement across the board may not be easy. "There are people who want to play, and others who don't," French football federation president Noel Le Graet told broadcaster TF1 on Sunday. German broadcaster ZDF reported that two possible options are on the table for the European Championship. One is to push it back to 2021, although that is not as simple as it might appear, as it would need FIFA president Gianni Infantino to agree to halting the inaugural edition of his highly lucrative Club World Cup, due to take place in June and July next year in China with some of Europe's top club sides involved. FIFA offered "no comment" on Monday on the matter. There is also the issue of the women's European Championship, scheduled to run from July 7 to August 1 next year in England, with the final at Wembley. The London venue is also supposed to hold the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020. The alternative option, according to ZDF, is to maintain a Euro 2020 by playing it towards the end of the year. - Financial stakes 'enormous' - That supposes that the crisis will have calmed down by then, and there is also the issue of all the other football that has been suspended. Le Graet said "it is probable" that all friendly matches scheduled to be played at the end of this month will be postponed. Play-off matches to decide the last four berths at Euro 2020 can be expected to go the same way. In any case, world governing body FIFA has already moved to say that clubs no longer need to release players for the scheduled international dates. They may come to a decision to try to complete the Champions League and Europa League by curtailing the competitions, meaning ties up to the semi-finals could be decided in one-off matches. From a financial viewpoint, UEFA would undoubtedly prefer postponing their flagship tournaments to cancelling them altogether, or playing matches behind closed doors. "The financial stakes are enormous," according to one senior figure in the international game. "We know that FIFA has significant reserves but we don't know about UEFA or the different leagues." In any case, the European Leagues grouping of almost a thousand clubs in 29 countries across the continent warned that "cooperation, coordination and flexibility are going to be essential".

Fate of Euro 2020 to be determined as UEFA set for crisis meeting

Anthony Martial's crucial away for Manchester United helped Red Devils draw the game with Belgium's Club Brugge on Thursday in the first leg of their Europa League last 32 fixture in Bruges, Belgium.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-lampard-asks-for-chelsea-fight-after-smash-and-grab-manchester-united-defeat-281237">Premier League: Lampard asks for Chelsea fight after smash and grab Manchester United defeat</a>

Club Brugge's Emmanuel Dennis' lob helped club lead in the first 15 minutes of the game. The Nigerian forward struck from 30 yards to give the Belgian league leaders a good start.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ole’s post-match thoughts on our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UEL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UEL</a> round-of-32 first leg 💬 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/noJ5eiNorb">pic.twitter.com/noJ5eiNorb</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1230592881993318400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2020</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>

Anthony Martial equalised for the English club before the halftime whistle. Scores remained the same till the final whistle.&nbsp;

"It was a difficult game against a well-organised team, under difficult conditions. I don't think it was one of the best games anyone has seen," said United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Manchester United manager was hopeful about the reverse fixture, he said: "It was a bit sloppy in terms of concentration but conditions with the pitch and ball make it hard. We got an away goal, we got a draw and we're at home next week. Hopefully, we can finish the job."

Solskjaer made six changes after their win over Chelsea on Monday.&nbsp;

Odion Ighalo started from the bench. He came in as the substitution for Anthony Martial.

Spanish Club Getafe defeated last season's Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;semi-finalists Ajax 2-0 in Spain with the help of Brazilian duo Deyverson and Kenedy goals.

Christian Eriksen scored&nbsp;his first Inter Milan goal in a 2-0 win away to Ludogorets of Bulgaria. Romelu Lukaku scored the second goal.

Five-time Europa winners Sevilla's&nbsp;82nd-minute equaliser from January arrival Youssef En-Nesyri&nbsp;salvaged a 1-1 draw on&nbsp;Romanian outfit Cluj.

Meanwhile, Japanese midfielder Daichi Kamada scored a hat-trick as Eintracht Frankfurt defeated Salzburg 4-1.

(With inputs from AFP)

Anthony Martial's crucial away for Manchester United helped Red Devils draw the game with Belgium's Club Brugge on Thursday in the first leg of their Europa League last 32 fixture in Bruges, Belgium.

Anthony Martial's crucial away for Manchester United helped Red Devils draw the game with Belgium's Club Brugge on Thursday in the first leg of their Europa League last 32 fixture in Bruges, Belgium. Also read: Premier League: Lampard asks for Chelsea fight after smash and grab Manchester United defeat Club Brugge's Emmanuel Dennis' lob helped club lead in the first 15 minutes of the game. The Nigerian forward struck from 30 yards to give the Belgian league leaders a good start. Ole’s post-match thoughts on our #UEL round-of-32 first leg 💬 #MUFC pic.twitter.com/noJ5eiNorb — Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 20, 2020 × Anthony Martial equalised for the English club before the halftime whistle. Scores remained the same till the final whistle. "It was a difficult game against a well-organised team, under difficult conditions. I don't think it was one of the best games anyone has seen," said United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Manchester United manager was hopeful about the reverse fixture, he said: "It was a bit sloppy in terms of concentration but conditions with the pitch and ball make it hard. We got an away goal, we got a draw and we're at home next week. Hopefully, we can finish the job." Solskjaer made six changes after their win over Chelsea on Monday. Odion Ighalo started from the bench. He came in as the substitution for Anthony Martial. Spanish Club Getafe defeated last season's Champions League semi-finalists Ajax 2-0 in Spain with the help of Brazilian duo Deyverson and Kenedy goals. Christian Eriksen scored his first Inter Milan goal in a 2-0 win away to Ludogorets of Bulgaria. Romelu Lukaku scored the second goal. Five-time Europa winners Sevilla's 82nd-minute equaliser from January arrival Youssef En-Nesyri salvaged a 1-1 draw on Romanian outfit Cluj. Meanwhile, Japanese midfielder Daichi Kamada scored a hat-trick as Eintracht Frankfurt defeated Salzburg 4-1. (With inputs from AFP)

UEFA Europa League: Martial's goal helps Man Utd draw match against Club Brugge

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-first-to-get-200-million-followers-on-instagram-277492">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> has added another feather to his cap by scoring 50 goals, donning the Bianconeri jersey. He achieved this feat after netting twice in the match against Fiorentina.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-ronaldo-scores-for-ninth-game-in-row-as-penalty-double-lifts-juventus-278195">Serie A: Ronaldo scores for ninth game in row as penalty double lifts Juventus</a>

He scored twice via penalty. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner scored 50 goals in just 70 matches in the Serie A.&nbsp;Serie A leaders Juventus bounced back from their defeat to Napoli with a 3-0 win over Fiorentina.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Good to get back to victories and happy to score again in our stadium!⚽⚽ 
Proud to reach 50 goals with the bianconeri shirt!💪🏽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/finoallafine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#finoallafine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/forzajuve?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#forzajuve</a> <a href="https://t.co/pzBrER9Uzt">pic.twitter.com/pzBrER9Uzt</a>
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano/status/1223978421988024321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</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>

Lazio moved second, five points behind the reigning champions after Serie A top scorer Ciro Immobile and Felipe Caicedo both scored a brace in a 5-1 win over rock bottom SPAL.

Ronaldo&nbsp;has been in a great form recently, he also became just the second Juve player in history to score in nine successive Serie A matches. It was first&nbsp;achieved&nbsp;by French player David Trezeguet in the October-December&nbsp;2005 season.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🎯 50 Juventus goals for <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CR50?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CR50</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@juventusfcen</a> <a href="https://t.co/Zx96Yq31Am">pic.twitter.com/Zx96Yq31Am</a>
— FIFA.com (@FIFAcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAcom/status/1223966921894264834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</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>

Ronaldo's&nbsp;2020 began with a bang after he scored a hattrick and an assist against Cagliari.&nbsp;

The Portuguese legend has been the highest goal scorer for his national team, and his previous club Real Madrid. He had scored 450 times in 438 matches for the La Liga table-toppers.

Cristiano&nbsp;has taken 151 penalties in his career (these include shootouts too), out of which he has scored in 126 penalties and missed 25 of them with a&nbsp;success rate of&nbsp;83.4 per cent.&nbsp;

"Cristiano Ronaldo continues to score repeatedly and for him, it's important psychologically," said Sarri of the player who turns 35 next Wednesday.

Cristiano Ronaldo has added another feather to his cap by scoring 50 goals, donning the Bianconeri jersey. He achieved this feat after netting twice in the match against Fiorentina.

Cristiano Ronaldo has added another feather to his cap by scoring 50 goals, donning the Bianconeri jersey. He achieved this feat after netting twice in the match against Fiorentina. Also read- Serie A: Ronaldo scores for ninth game in row as penalty double lifts Juventus He scored twice via penalty. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner scored 50 goals in just 70 matches in the Serie A. Serie A leaders Juventus bounced back from their defeat to Napoli with a 3-0 win over Fiorentina. Good to get back to victories and happy to score again in our stadium!⚽⚽ Proud to reach 50 goals with the bianconeri shirt!💪🏽#finoallafine #forzajuve pic.twitter.com/pzBrER9Uzt — Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) February 2, 2020 × Lazio moved second, five points behind the reigning champions after Serie A top scorer Ciro Immobile and Felipe Caicedo both scored a brace in a 5-1 win over rock bottom SPAL. Ronaldo has been in a great form recently, he also became just the second Juve player in history to score in nine successive Serie A matches. It was first achieved by French player David Trezeguet in the October-December 2005 season. 🎯 50 Juventus goals for @Cristiano #CR50 | @juventusfcen pic.twitter.com/Zx96Yq31Am — FIFA.com (@FIFAcom) February 2, 2020 × Ronaldo's 2020 began with a bang after he scored a hattrick and an assist against Cagliari. The Portuguese legend has been the highest goal scorer for his national team, and his previous club Real Madrid. He had scored 450 times in 438 matches for the La Liga table-toppers. Cristiano has taken 151 penalties in his career (these include shootouts too), out of which he has scored in 126 penalties and missed 25 of them with a success rate of 83.4 per cent. "Cristiano Ronaldo continues to score repeatedly and for him, it's important psychologically," said Sarri of the player who turns 35 next Wednesday.

Cristiano Ronaldo achieves another milestone, scores 50 goals for Juventus

Canadian forward Christine Sinclair became the all-time top scorer in international soccer, breaking the mark held by American Abby Wambach when she netted her 185th goal against St. Kitts and Nevis in south Texas on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/young-guns-shine-as-arsenal-move-into-fa-cup-fifth-round-277060" hreflang="en">Young guns shine as Arsenal move into FA Cup fifth round</a>

Sinclair, playing her 290th international, scored the milestone goal from close range in the 23rd minute of Canada's opening game at the CONCACAF Olympic qualifiers at H-E-B Park in Edinburg after tying the record with a seventh-minute penalty.

"Just unbelievable," Sinclair said on what it means to be soccer's most prolific goal scorer. "When I first started with the national team I could never have imagined standing here with the number of goals I've scored."

The 36-year-old Canadian captain opened the scoring when she scored from the spot and later tucked away an Adriana Leon cross with a right-footed shot from inside the box to make it 4-0 and take the record.

Sinclair left the game in the 47th minute and Canada ran out comfortable winners 11-0.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamCanada?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamCanada</a> ⚽️ game where Christine Sinclair joined the history 📚🙌 
 
🇨🇦 defeats 🇰🇳 11-0 in their first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWOQ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWOQ</a> game 💪 
 
Read all about it 👉<a href="https://t.co/vdz4z0kIpJ">https://t.co/vdz4z0kIpJ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BellLetsTaIk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BellLetsTaIk</a> <a href="https://t.co/31Y4UpMmSE">pic.twitter.com/31Y4UpMmSE</a>
— Team Canada (@TeamCanada) <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamCanada/status/1222693301385678849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2020</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>

"Christine: History is made. Your victory is our victory. We celebrate with you," Wambach, who amassed her 184 goals over 255 games, posted on her Twitter account shortly after Sinclair surpassed her total.

"And to every girl coming up in the Pack with a dream to achieve that which doesn't yet even exist: We believe in you. Your Pack is with you. And history awaits you."

Wambach, who retired in 2015 after a 15-year career, had sole possession of the goalscoring mark since 2013 when she broke fellow American Mia Hamm's record of 158.

Sinclair has been the backbone of the Canadian team since making her debut as a 16-year-old at the 2000 Algarve Cup where she scored her first international goal.

She has established herself as one of the best players in the women's game and has competed at two Olympics, including in 2012 where she was the tournament's leading scorer with six of Canada's 12 goals.

"We have watched her grow from a teenage star on the local grounds to an international superstar who is adored around the world," said Canada Soccer President Steven Reed.

CONCACAF President and FIFA Vice-President Victor Montagliani also offered congratulations and thanked Sinclair for her contribution to the sport.

"To have scored an all-time international record goal haul, and to still be going strong, is truly outstanding. Christine's achievements have made her an icon in Canada," said Montagliani.

"She transcends the sport and is a wonderful role model for people across the country."

Iranian great Ali Daei holds the men's international scoring record with 109 goals in 149 appearances.

Canadian forward Christine Sinclair became the all-time top scorer in international soccer, breaking the mark held by American Abby Wambach when she netted her 185th goal against St.

Canadian forward Christine Sinclair became the all-time top scorer in international soccer, breaking the mark held by American Abby Wambach when she netted her 185th goal against St. Kitts and Nevis in south Texas on Wednesday. Also read: Young guns shine as Arsenal move into FA Cup fifth round Sinclair, playing her 290th international, scored the milestone goal from close range in the 23rd minute of Canada's opening game at the CONCACAF Olympic qualifiers at H-E-B Park in Edinburg after tying the record with a seventh-minute penalty. "Just unbelievable," Sinclair said on what it means to be soccer's most prolific goal scorer. "When I first started with the national team I could never have imagined standing here with the number of goals I've scored." The 36-year-old Canadian captain opened the scoring when she scored from the spot and later tucked away an Adriana Leon cross with a right-footed shot from inside the box to make it 4-0 and take the record. Sinclair left the game in the 47th minute and Canada ran out comfortable winners 11-0. A #TeamCanada ⚽️ game where Christine Sinclair joined the history 📚🙌 🇨🇦 defeats 🇰🇳 11-0 in their first #CWOQ game 💪 Read all about it 👉https://t.co/vdz4z0kIpJ#BellLetsTaIk pic.twitter.com/31Y4UpMmSE — Team Canada (@TeamCanada) January 30, 2020 × "Christine: History is made. Your victory is our victory. We celebrate with you," Wambach, who amassed her 184 goals over 255 games, posted on her Twitter account shortly after Sinclair surpassed her total. "And to every girl coming up in the Pack with a dream to achieve that which doesn't yet even exist: We believe in you. Your Pack is with you. And history awaits you." Wambach, who retired in 2015 after a 15-year career, had sole possession of the goalscoring mark since 2013 when she broke fellow American Mia Hamm's record of 158. Sinclair has been the backbone of the Canadian team since making her debut as a 16-year-old at the 2000 Algarve Cup where she scored her first international goal. She has established herself as one of the best players in the women's game and has competed at two Olympics, including in 2012 where she was the tournament's leading scorer with six of Canada's 12 goals. "We have watched her grow from a teenage star on the local grounds to an international superstar who is adored around the world," said Canada Soccer President Steven Reed. CONCACAF President and FIFA Vice-President Victor Montagliani also offered congratulations and thanked Sinclair for her contribution to the sport. "To have scored an all-time international record goal haul, and to still be going strong, is truly outstanding. Christine's achievements have made her an icon in Canada," said Montagliani. "She transcends the sport and is a wonderful role model for people across the country." Iranian great Ali Daei holds the men's international scoring record with 109 goals in 149 appearances.

Football: Canadian Sinclair breaks international scoring record

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-munich-win-bundesliga-title-for-seventh-successive-season-219687">Bayern Munich</a> fired an ominous warning to the rest of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-jadon-sancho-to-luka-jovic-five-rising-bundesliga-stars-of-201819-219452">Bundesliga </a>when they demolished fifth-placed Schalke 04 5-0 on Saturday to close the gap on leaders RB Leipzig to one point. Forward Robert Lewandowski set the Bavarians on their way by scoring his 21st league goal of the season in the sixth minute and, after they had two goals disallowed for offside, Thomas Mueller added the second just before halftime.

Leon Goretzka scored a brilliantly improvised third in the 50th minute before Thiago and Serge Gnabry added two more as Bayern completed their fifth successive league win. After dropping to sixth in early December, Bayern -- chasing an eighth successive title -- have 39 points from 19 games, one behind RB Leipzig who lost 2-0 at Eintracht Frankfurt earlier on Saturday.

Borussia Moenchengladbach are third on 38 with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-hoffenheim-stun-borussia-dortmund-after-late-strike-269439">Borussia Dortmund</a> on 36. Schalke, on 33, lost ground with the top four. "We wanted to impose our game, our philosophy, and we succeeded," said Bayern coach Hansi Flick. "I wasn't interested in the Leipzig game. The decisive thing today was that we got the three points. We have a stability in the team and that's very important."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewandowski-makes-history-after-scoring-in-first-nine-bundesliga-games-258304">Lewandowski makes history after scoring in first nine Bundesliga games</a>

<img alt="Bayern Munich's Thomas Muller" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f2e905bb-4d2d-4f30-85fb-57c4f12cabe5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2886%29_1.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Bayern Munich's Thomas Muller scores their second goal (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Schalke were quickly in trouble as goalkeeper Markus Schubert flapped at a Mueller cross and Ivan Perisic touched the ball to Lewandowski who thumped it into the net. Rabbi Matondo rattled the Bayern bar shortly afterwards which was the last time that Schalke threatened to make a serious contest out of it. Mueller thought he had scored in the 12th minute but it was ruled offside, a decision confirmed by VAR.

Lewandowski also had the ball in the net but it was disallowed following a VAR review for offside in the buildup -- forcing the stadium announcer to stop his goal celebration routine halfway through. Schubert made good saves from Goretzka and Lewandowski but could do nothing in the 45th minute when Goretzka headed the ball into the path of Mueller to add the second.

It quickly got worse for the Royal Blues. Five minutes into the second half, Goretzka's header hit a defender, rebounded straight back and he reacted brilliantly to hook the ball in on the volley. There was no letup as Bayern won possession in midfield, Lewandowski broke down the left and centered the ball for Thiago to turn into an empty net.

Schubert completed a miserable evening as Gnabry's shot slipped through his legs in the 89th minute and the referee appeared to take pity on Schalke as he blew for time on the 90 minutes.

&nbsp;

Bayern Munich fired an ominous warning to the rest of the Bundesliga when they demolished fifth-placed Schalke 04 5-0 on Saturday to close the gap on leaders RB Leipzig to one point.

Bayern Munich fired an ominous warning to the rest of the Bundesliga when they demolished fifth-placed Schalke 04 5-0 on Saturday to close the gap on leaders RB Leipzig to one point. Forward Robert Lewandowski set the Bavarians on their way by scoring his 21st league goal of the season in the sixth minute and, after they had two goals disallowed for offside, Thomas Mueller added the second just before halftime. Leon Goretzka scored a brilliantly improvised third in the 50th minute before Thiago and Serge Gnabry added two more as Bayern completed their fifth successive league win. After dropping to sixth in early December, Bayern -- chasing an eighth successive title -- have 39 points from 19 games, one behind RB Leipzig who lost 2-0 at Eintracht Frankfurt earlier on Saturday. Borussia Moenchengladbach are third on 38 with Borussia Dortmund on 36. Schalke, on 33, lost ground with the top four. "We wanted to impose our game, our philosophy, and we succeeded," said Bayern coach Hansi Flick. "I wasn't interested in the Leipzig game. The decisive thing today was that we got the three points. We have a stability in the team and that's very important." Also Read: Lewandowski makes history after scoring in first nine Bundesliga games [ Bayern Munich's Thomas Muller scores their second goal (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Schalke were quickly in trouble as goalkeeper Markus Schubert flapped at a Mueller cross and Ivan Perisic touched the ball to Lewandowski who thumped it into the net. Rabbi Matondo rattled the Bayern bar shortly afterwards which was the last time that Schalke threatened to make a serious contest out of it. Mueller thought he had scored in the 12th minute but it was ruled offside, a decision confirmed by VAR. Lewandowski also had the ball in the net but it was disallowed following a VAR review for offside in the buildup -- forcing the stadium announcer to stop his goal celebration routine halfway through. Schubert made good saves from Goretzka and Lewandowski but could do nothing in the 45th minute when Goretzka headed the ball into the path of Mueller to add the second. It quickly got worse for the Royal Blues. Five minutes into the second half, Goretzka's header hit a defender, rebounded straight back and he reacted brilliantly to hook the ball in on the volley. There was no letup as Bayern won possession in midfield, Lewandowski broke down the left and centered the ball for Thiago to turn into an empty net. Schubert completed a miserable evening as Gnabry's shot slipped through his legs in the 89th minute and the referee appeared to take pity on Schalke as he blew for time on the 90 minutes.

Bayern demolish Schalke; Lewandowski strikes early

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-up-to-fifth-with-2-0-win-at-burnley-270810">Manchester United</a> midfielder Paul Pogba is set to return for their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-west-ham-sack-pellegrini-after-leicester-defeat-270816">Premier League</a> visit to Arsenal on New Year's Day after sitting out Saturday's 2-0 win over Burnley as a precaution, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

The France international returned from a long layoff injury in United's 2-0 defeat by Watford on December&nbsp;22 and played 45 minutes in their 4-1 win over Newcastle United on Boxing Day.

Pogba felt pain in his ankle after the Newcastle game but Solskjaer said the 26-year-old would be ready for United's next match.

"He's been out for a long while and he didn't feel right," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaer-says-smiles-back-on-manchester-united-faces-ahead-of-derby-266672">Solskjaer</a> told reporters. "When you've been out for such a while it's always going to take time until you're 100 per cent.

"He wasn't ready (to face Burnley) because he's not really done too many games and he's had two in a few days and he just needed another day's recovery."

United midfielder Scott McTominay damaged knee ligaments in the win over Newcastle and Solskjaer said the 23-year-old could be out of action for about a month.

"I wouldn't expect him to be back within a few weeks," the Norwegian added. "I don't know if it's three or four weeks ... We've just got to find a way through it."

United's win over Burnley lifted them to fifth in the table, while Arsenal dropped to 12th after losing to Chelsea on Sunday.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is set to return for their Premier League visit to Arsenal on New Year's Day after sitting out Saturday's 2-0 win over Burnley as a precaution, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is set to return for their Premier League visit to Arsenal on New Year's Day after sitting out Saturday's 2-0 win over Burnley as a precaution, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said. The France international returned from a long layoff injury in United's 2-0 defeat by Watford on December 22 and played 45 minutes in their 4-1 win over Newcastle United on Boxing Day. Pogba felt pain in his ankle after the Newcastle game but Solskjaer said the 26-year-old would be ready for United's next match. "He's been out for a long while and he didn't feel right," Solskjaer told reporters. "When you've been out for such a while it's always going to take time until you're 100 per cent. "He wasn't ready (to face Burnley) because he's not really done too many games and he's had two in a few days and he just needed another day's recovery." United midfielder Scott McTominay damaged knee ligaments in the win over Newcastle and Solskjaer said the 23-year-old could be out of action for about a month. "I wouldn't expect him to be back within a few weeks," the Norwegian added. "I don't know if it's three or four weeks ... We've just got to find a way through it." United's win over Burnley lifted them to fifth in the table, while Arsenal dropped to 12th after losing to Chelsea on Sunday.

Pogba set to return for Manchester United's match against Arsenal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-ancelotti-gets-winning-start-as-everton-beat-burnley-270517">Carlo Ancelotti's flying start</a> as Everton manager continued as his side won 2-1 at Newcastle United and Watford are also thriving under new boss Nigel Pearson after crushing relegation rivals <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-beat-liverpools-kids-to-reach-league-cup-semis-268863">Aston Villa</a> 3-0 on Saturday.

Everton won for the second time in two games with Italian Ancelotti at the helm as Dominic Calvert-Lewin's double sealed the points at St James' Park to ease Everton into mid-table.

Fabian Schar had levelled for Newcastle but Calvert-Lewin's fifth league goal in his last five games gave Everton the win.

Watford remain in the drop zone but Pearson is working his magic having taken over from Quique Sanchez Flores this month to become the club's third manager this season.

Pearson's side played for more than half an hour with 10 men after defender Adrian Mariappa was sent off but they already led through Troy Deeney's opener in the 42nd minute.

Watford scored again when Deeney slotted home a penalty after he was fouled by Douglas Luiz.

Ismaila Sarr added a third as Watford recorded their second successive victory under Pearson to move to within three points of 17th-placed West Ham United, who play later on Saturday.

Villa beat Norwich City on Boxing Day but defeat by Watford left them third from bottom.

Bournemouth are also too close to the relegation zone for comfort after losing 2-0 to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion in the south coast derby that kicked off the day's programme.

Iranian winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh opened the scoring with his first goal for Brighton and Aaron Mooy made the points secure in the 79th minute as Brighton claimed a vital victory in their bid to stay away from trouble.

Danny Ings earned Southampton a point in a 1-1 draw at home to Crystal Palace who had taken the lead through James Tomkins.

Palace also had a goal ruled in the first half through VAR, Max Meyer's celebrations being cut short for a marginal offside call on Wilfried Zaha.

Tottenham Hotspur can go fourth with victory at Norwich City in a later kickoff while Leicester City will try to close the gap on leaders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-relentless-liverpool-have-no-time-for-reflection-270699">Liverpool</a> to 10 points by winning at West Ham.

Burnley host Manchester United in the day's final action.

Carlo Ancelotti's flying start as Everton manager continued as his side won 2-1 at Newcastle United and Watford are also thriving under new boss Nigel Pearson after crushing relegation rivals Aston Villa 3-0 on Saturday.

Carlo Ancelotti's flying start as Everton manager continued as his side won 2-1 at Newcastle United and Watford are also thriving under new boss Nigel Pearson after crushing relegation rivals Aston Villa 3-0 on Saturday. Everton won for the second time in two games with Italian Ancelotti at the helm as Dominic Calvert-Lewin's double sealed the points at St James' Park to ease Everton into mid-table. Fabian Schar had levelled for Newcastle but Calvert-Lewin's fifth league goal in his last five games gave Everton the win. Watford remain in the drop zone but Pearson is working his magic having taken over from Quique Sanchez Flores this month to become the club's third manager this season. Pearson's side played for more than half an hour with 10 men after defender Adrian Mariappa was sent off but they already led through Troy Deeney's opener in the 42nd minute. Watford scored again when Deeney slotted home a penalty after he was fouled by Douglas Luiz. Ismaila Sarr added a third as Watford recorded their second successive victory under Pearson to move to within three points of 17th-placed West Ham United, who play later on Saturday. Villa beat Norwich City on Boxing Day but defeat by Watford left them third from bottom. Bournemouth are also too close to the relegation zone for comfort after losing 2-0 to Brighton & Hove Albion in the south coast derby that kicked off the day's programme. Iranian winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh opened the scoring with his first goal for Brighton and Aaron Mooy made the points secure in the 79th minute as Brighton claimed a vital victory in their bid to stay away from trouble. Danny Ings earned Southampton a point in a 1-1 draw at home to Crystal Palace who had taken the lead through James Tomkins. Palace also had a goal ruled in the first half through VAR, Max Meyer's celebrations being cut short for a marginal offside call on Wilfried Zaha. Tottenham Hotspur can go fourth with victory at Norwich City in a later kickoff while Leicester City will try to close the gap on leaders Liverpool to 10 points by winning at West Ham. Burnley host Manchester United in the day's final action.

Premier League: Ancelotti's Everton win again, Pearson works Watford magic

Tottenham Hotspur striker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-kane-keen-to-build-strong-relationship-with-mourinho-at-spurs-264993">Harry Kane</a> struck a late penalty to salvage a 2-2 draw at bottom side Norwich City, who were controversially denied a goal by a VAR review, in an entertaining <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-martial-scores-twice-as-manchester-united-crush-newcastle-270486">Premier League clash</a> on Saturday.

Kane was brought down in the area and stepped up to secure a point in his 200th Premier League match after Serge Aurier's own goal had given battling Norwich the lead for the second time.

A first-half strike by the home side's Mario Vrancic was cancelled out by Christian Eriksen's free kick after the break.

Norwich also had a Teemu Pukki effort harshly ruled out for a wafer-thin offside decision following a VAR review that left the home fans singing, "It's not football anymore."

The result leaves <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-spurs-have-the-momentum-heading-into-chelsea-clash-kane-268958">Spurs</a> in fifth place with 30 points from 20 games, two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea who have a game in hand at Arsenal on Sunday, while Norwich stay at the foot of the table with 13, six points from the safety zone.

The hosts went ahead with a low strike by Vrancic from the edge of the area in the 18th minute after Spurs defender Juan Foyth was dispossessed by Emiliano Buendia.

They thought they had scored again after 33 minutes when Pukki ran onto a ball over the top by Vrancic to slot home and while referee Kevin Friend awarded a goal, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mourinho-confirms-tottenham-appeal-against-wrong-red-for-son-269877">VAR's decision</a> was that the Finland striker was fractionally offside.

Spurs made the most of their let off with a goal 10 minutes into the second half from Eriksen who planted a free kick into the top corner after Jamal Lewis had handled outside the area.

Norwich then had some luck themselves when Tottenham's Ivorian right back Aurier diverted the ball past his own keeper Paulo Gazzaniga after team mate Toby Alderweireld hit it against him while trying to stop Pukki bearing down on goal.

"I think the same defensive mistakes we made in the first half, we made in the second half. This is being a little bit of our history," said Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho.

It was left to England forward Kane to salvage a draw for the visitors when he was brought down by Christoph Zimmermann and fired the spot kick home after 83 minutes.

It was his 136th Premier League goal - his 150th league goal in total -&nbsp;and only Alan Shearer and Sergio Aguero have scored more Premier League goals in their first 200 appearances.

Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane struck a late penalty to salvage a 2-2 draw at bottom side Norwich City, who were controversially denied a goal by a VAR review, in an entertaining Premier League clash on Saturday.

Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane struck a late penalty to salvage a 2-2 draw at bottom side Norwich City, who were controversially denied a goal by a VAR review, in an entertaining Premier League clash on Saturday. Kane was brought down in the area and stepped up to secure a point in his 200th Premier League match after Serge Aurier's own goal had given battling Norwich the lead for the second time. A first-half strike by the home side's Mario Vrancic was cancelled out by Christian Eriksen's free kick after the break. Norwich also had a Teemu Pukki effort harshly ruled out for a wafer-thin offside decision following a VAR review that left the home fans singing, "It's not football anymore." The result leaves Spurs in fifth place with 30 points from 20 games, two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea who have a game in hand at Arsenal on Sunday, while Norwich stay at the foot of the table with 13, six points from the safety zone. The hosts went ahead with a low strike by Vrancic from the edge of the area in the 18th minute after Spurs defender Juan Foyth was dispossessed by Emiliano Buendia. They thought they had scored again after 33 minutes when Pukki ran onto a ball over the top by Vrancic to slot home and while referee Kevin Friend awarded a goal, VAR's decision was that the Finland striker was fractionally offside. Spurs made the most of their let off with a goal 10 minutes into the second half from Eriksen who planted a free kick into the top corner after Jamal Lewis had handled outside the area. Norwich then had some luck themselves when Tottenham's Ivorian right back Aurier diverted the ball past his own keeper Paulo Gazzaniga after team mate Toby Alderweireld hit it against him while trying to stop Pukki bearing down on goal. "I think the same defensive mistakes we made in the first half, we made in the second half. This is being a little bit of our history," said Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho. It was left to England forward Kane to salvage a draw for the visitors when he was brought down by Christoph Zimmermann and fired the spot kick home after 83 minutes. It was his 136th Premier League goal - his 150th league goal in total - and only Alan Shearer and Sergio Aguero have scored more Premier League goals in their first 200 appearances.

Premier League: Spurs draw 2-2 at Norwich amid VAR controversy

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's decision to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ibrahimovic-set-for-ac-milan-return-reports-270530">return to AC Milan</a> and Italy for what may prove to be the final chapter of his storied career will provide a fascinating twist in the tale of a Serie A season that has been anything but rewarding for the "Rossoneri" so far.

The second-most successful club in Italy behind <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mandzukic-joins-qatars-al-duhail-from-juventus-270107">Juventus</a> in terms of league titles, Milan are parked in an undignified 10th spot in the standings as the announcement of the Swedish goal-scorers return was made on Friday evening.

Fans will be looking forward to getting reacquainted with a talismanic striker that scored 42 goals in 61 games and winning a league title and an Italian Super Cup before leaving in 2012 to join <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/st-etienne-hit-with-stadium-ban-over-fireworks-during-psg-match-268949">Paris St Germain</a>. However, he is now seven years older with a lot more miles on the clock.

That said, his 31 goals in 31 games last season with LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer would suggest that his power and precision are still there, even if his pace is not.

It could also be argued that playing with players earning far, far less than him in the US&nbsp;has taught the 38-year-old to both manage his extremely high expectations and to take more responsibility for his team's fortunes.

Few believed that Ibrahimovic's period in the MLS - a growing league, but still a relative backwater in global terms - would be the final chapter in a career that has featured goals, glory and no little controversy.

His ability to rile everyone from rival fans to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-pep-guardiola-looking-forward-to-fifth-season-with-manchester-city-269875">Pep Guardiola</a>, his coach at Barcelona, is legendary, and a statue of him in his home town of Malmo has been defaced recently after he acquired an ownership stake in Stockholm rivals Hammmarby.

The contract with Milan runs to the end of the current season with an option for another year, and though a lucrative move to China or the Middle East cannot be ruled out, this may be the last time he signs for a big club in a top league.

With a thin squad that is 21 points behind leaders and bitter city rivals Inter Milan, a Hollywood ending to Milan's season is highly unlikely. However, the drama of Ibrahimovic's return will make Serie A required watching as his career enters its final act.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's decision to return to AC Milan and Italy for what may prove to be the final chapter of his storied career will provide a fascinating twist in the tale of a Serie A season that has been anything but rewarding for the "Rossoneri" so far.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's decision to return to AC Milan and Italy for what may prove to be the final chapter of his storied career will provide a fascinating twist in the tale of a Serie A season that has been anything but rewarding for the "Rossoneri" so far. The second-most successful club in Italy behind Juventus in terms of league titles, Milan are parked in an undignified 10th spot in the standings as the announcement of the Swedish goal-scorers return was made on Friday evening. Fans will be looking forward to getting reacquainted with a talismanic striker that scored 42 goals in 61 games and winning a league title and an Italian Super Cup before leaving in 2012 to join Paris St Germain. However, he is now seven years older with a lot more miles on the clock. That said, his 31 goals in 31 games last season with LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer would suggest that his power and precision are still there, even if his pace is not. It could also be argued that playing with players earning far, far less than him in the US has taught the 38-year-old to both manage his extremely high expectations and to take more responsibility for his team's fortunes. Few believed that Ibrahimovic's period in the MLS - a growing league, but still a relative backwater in global terms - would be the final chapter in a career that has featured goals, glory and no little controversy. His ability to rile everyone from rival fans to Pep Guardiola, his coach at Barcelona, is legendary, and a statue of him in his home town of Malmo has been defaced recently after he acquired an ownership stake in Stockholm rivals Hammmarby. The contract with Milan runs to the end of the current season with an option for another year, and though a lucrative move to China or the Middle East cannot be ruled out, this may be the last time he signs for a big club in a top league. With a thin squad that is 21 points behind leaders and bitter city rivals Inter Milan, a Hollywood ending to Milan's season is highly unlikely. However, the drama of Ibrahimovic's return will make Serie A required watching as his career enters its final act.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic returns to Italy as final chapter looms

Beijing and Shanghai are among 10 Chinese cities that will host the Asian Cup finals in 2023, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said on Saturday.

China's desire to showcase its ability as a future <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-uefa-announces-new-playoff-system-for-2022-world-cup-qualifiers-266326">World Cup</a> host got a boost when its football association (CFA) was awarded the rights to host the quadrennial tournament at an extraordinary AFC congress in Paris in June.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-china-russia-start-joint-naval-drills-270575">China</a>, which will host the tournament for the second time after 2004, had been one of four nations to initially bid to host the 24-team competition with South Korea, Indonesia and Thailand also submitting bids before pulling out.

Tianjin, Chongqing, Chengdu, Xi'an, Dalian, Qingdao, Xiamen and Suzhou will be the other host cities for the 18th edition of the continent's premier competition that will be held in June and July 2023.

"The AFC Asian Cup is our flagship competition for national teams, and I am sure that the Chinese FA and the selected host cities will deliver a tournament which is in keeping with the event's world-class status," AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa said in a statement.

"The AFC thanks the commitment shown by the CFA and these 10 great cities to be a part of this celebration of Asian football. I wish them all the very best of success in their desire to show the world that China PR can stage huge international football events."

The tournament will give China the opportunity to showcase its ability to host a major football event and comes several years after President Xi Jinping declared his desire to see the country eventually host the World Cup finals.

As a result, investment in the sport in China has skyrocketed in the six years since Xi - a well-known football fan - came to power, although the fortunes of the national team lag behind the leading nations in Asia.

China have only qualified for the World Cup once, in 2002, and have never won the Asian Cup, last reaching the final on home soil in 2004. They were eliminated in the quarter-finals of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-you-need-to-know-about-asian-cup-2019-188242">2019 Asian Cup</a> by Iran in January.

Beijing and Shanghai are among 10 Chinese cities that will host the Asian Cup finals in 2023, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said on Saturday. China's desire to showcase its ability as a future World Cup host got a boost when its football association (CFA) was awarded the rights to host the quadrennial tournament at an extraordinary AFC congress in Paris in June.

Beijing and Shanghai are among 10 Chinese cities that will host the Asian Cup finals in 2023, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said on Saturday. China's desire to showcase its ability as a future World Cup host got a boost when its football association (CFA) was awarded the rights to host the quadrennial tournament at an extraordinary AFC congress in Paris in June. China, which will host the tournament for the second time after 2004, had been one of four nations to initially bid to host the 24-team competition with South Korea, Indonesia and Thailand also submitting bids before pulling out. Tianjin, Chongqing, Chengdu, Xi'an, Dalian, Qingdao, Xiamen and Suzhou will be the other host cities for the 18th edition of the continent's premier competition that will be held in June and July 2023. "The AFC Asian Cup is our flagship competition for national teams, and I am sure that the Chinese FA and the selected host cities will deliver a tournament which is in keeping with the event's world-class status," AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa said in a statement. "The AFC thanks the commitment shown by the CFA and these 10 great cities to be a part of this celebration of Asian football. I wish them all the very best of success in their desire to show the world that China PR can stage huge international football events." The tournament will give China the opportunity to showcase its ability to host a major football event and comes several years after President Xi Jinping declared his desire to see the country eventually host the World Cup finals. As a result, investment in the sport in China has skyrocketed in the six years since Xi - a well-known football fan - came to power, although the fortunes of the national team lag behind the leading nations in Asia. China have only qualified for the World Cup once, in 2002, and have never won the Asian Cup, last reaching the final on home soil in 2004. They were eliminated in the quarter-finals of the 2019 Asian Cup by Iran in January.

Beijing, Shanghai among 10 cities to host 2023 Asian Cup

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will leave the Spanish La Liga champions at the end of the season,&nbsp;saying he needs to &quot;rest&quot;.

Luis Enrique made the announcement at the post-match press conference after Barca thrashed Sporting Gijon 6-1 at the Nou Camp to stay in the hunt for a third league title.

&quot;I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me, it&#39;s been three unforgettable years,&quot; said Luis Enrique, who has won two Liga titles, two King&#39;s Cups and the 2015 Champions League since succeeding Gerardo Martino in 2014.

&quot;It is a difficult, measured and well thought-out decision and I think I have to be loyal to what I think,&quot; said Enrique, who will leave at the end of his contract this summer.

&quot;It&#39;s about how I live with my profession, with a never-ending quest for solutions and to improve my team. That means I have very little time to rest, very few hours to disconnect,&quot; the Barcelona coach added.

&quot;I think it will be good for me at the end of the season, because I need to rest. That&#39;s the principle motive,&quot; he said.

&quot;The most important thing is we have three exciting months left in all three competitions. In one of them, we are in a difficult situation but if the stars align, we will have a chance to turn it around,&quot; he hoped.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rnhh5ZAYpy0" width="854"></iframe>

Watch: Enrique&#39;s best moments

Barcelona is on the verge of elimination from the Champions League after losing 4-0 to Paris St-Germain in the first leg of the round of 16.

Luis Enrique&#39;s final dream at the Spanish club would be to defend the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles this season.&nbsp;

(WION)

He said he needed to 'rest', and that 'it's been three unforgettable years'

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will leave the Spanish La Liga champions at the end of the season, saying he needs to "rest". Luis Enrique made the announcement at the post-match press conference after Barca thrashed Sporting Gijon 6-1 at the Nou Camp to stay in the hunt for a third league title. "I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me, it's been three unforgettable years," said Luis Enrique, who has won two Liga titles, two King's Cups and the 2015 Champions League since succeeding Gerardo Martino in 2014. "It is a difficult, measured and well thought-out decision and I think I have to be loyal to what I think," said Enrique, who will leave at the end of his contract this summer. "It's about how I live with my profession, with a never-ending quest for solutions and to improve my team. That means I have very little time to rest, very few hours to disconnect," the Barcelona coach added. "I think it will be good for me at the end of the season, because I need to rest. That's the principle motive," he said. "The most important thing is we have three exciting months left in all three competitions. In one of them, we are in a difficult situation but if the stars align, we will have a chance to turn it around," he hoped. Watch: Enrique's best moments Barcelona is on the verge of elimination from the Champions League after losing 4-0 to Paris St-Germain in the first leg of the round of 16. Luis Enrique's final dream at the Spanish club would be to defend the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles this season. (WION)

Luis Enrique to quit as Barcelona coach at end of season

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will leave the Spanish La Liga champions at the end of the season,&nbsp;saying he needs to &quot;rest&quot;.

Luis Enrique made the announcement at the post-match conference after Barca thrashed Sporting Gijon 6-1 at the Nou Camp to keep up their bid for a third league title.

&quot;I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me, it&#39;s been three unforgettable years,&quot; said Luis Enrique, who has won two Liga titles, two King&#39;s Cups and the 2015 Champions League since succeeding Gerardo Martino in 2014.

&quot;It is a difficult, measured and well thought-out decision and I think I have to be loyal to what I think,&quot; said Enrique, who will leave at the end of his contract this summer.

&quot;It&#39;s about how I live with my profession, with a never-ending quest for solutions and to improve my team. That means I have very little time to rest, very few hours to disconnect.

&quot;I think it will be good for me at the end of the season, because I need to rest. That&#39;s the principle motive.&quot;

&quot;The most important thing is we have three exciting months left in all three competitions. In one of them, we are in a difficult situation but if the stars align, we will have a chance to turn it around.&quot;

Some of Enrique&#39;s best moments at FC Barcelona

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0SI1tJcjjRI" width="854"></iframe>

Barcelona is on the verge of elimination from the Champions League after losing 4-0 to Paris St-Germain in the first leg of the round of 16.

Luis Enrique&#39;s final dream at the Spanish club would be to defend the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles this season. &nbsp;

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will leave the Spanish La Liga champions at the end of the season, ?saying he needs to "rest"

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will leave the Spanish La Liga champions at the end of the season, saying he needs to "rest". Luis Enrique made the announcement at the post-match conference after Barca thrashed Sporting Gijon 6-1 at the Nou Camp to keep up their bid for a third league title. "I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me, it's been three unforgettable years," said Luis Enrique, who has won two Liga titles, two King's Cups and the 2015 Champions League since succeeding Gerardo Martino in 2014. "It is a difficult, measured and well thought-out decision and I think I have to be loyal to what I think," said Enrique, who will leave at the end of his contract this summer. "It's about how I live with my profession, with a never-ending quest for solutions and to improve my team. That means I have very little time to rest, very few hours to disconnect. "I think it will be good for me at the end of the season, because I need to rest. That's the principle motive." "The most important thing is we have three exciting months left in all three competitions. In one of them, we are in a difficult situation but if the stars align, we will have a chance to turn it around." Some of Enrique's best moments at FC Barcelona Barcelona is on the verge of elimination from the Champions League after losing 4-0 to Paris St-Germain in the first leg of the round of 16. Luis Enrique's final dream at the Spanish club would be to defend the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles this season.

Luis Enrique to quit as Barcelona boss at the end of season

Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain has become the&nbsp;world&#39;s&nbsp;third most expensive player after the 28-year-old signed a five-year deal at Juventus Football Club, and moved to Napoli, an Italian Champions club,&nbsp;for $99 million.&nbsp;

&quot;Juventus can confirm that it has purchased the registration rights of Gonzalo Higuain for &euro;90 million, payable in two financial years,&quot; said a statement on the Juventus website.&nbsp; 
 
Higuain&#39;s transfer fee is the third highest paid, after Gareth Bale moved to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for 100 million euros in 2013,&nbsp;and Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Spaniards from Manchester United for 94 million euros in 2009. 
 
Higuain&#39;s move could create a ripple effect in the market amid speculation that Paul Pogma may be on his way out to Manchester United from Juventus.&nbsp;The 23-year-old Pogba left United on a free transfer in 2012, but is likely to make&nbsp;the move back to the Premier League this summer. 
 
Higuain won the Capocannoniere - Serie A&#39;s golden boot - last season after scoring a league record-equalling 36 goals as Napoli finished runners-up to his new club. 
 
The news that he was poised to join Juventus caused anguish among Napoli fans, who gathered in Naples city centre on Saturday to tear up pictures of the Argentine and set fire to replicas of his number nine shirt.

The former Napoli player has become the third most expensive player after Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo

Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain has become the world's third most expensive player after the 28-year-old signed a five-year deal at Juventus Football Club, and moved to Napoli, an Italian Champions club, for $99 million. "Juventus can confirm that it has purchased the registration rights of Gonzalo Higuain for €90 million, payable in two financial years," said a statement on the Juventus website. Higuain's transfer fee is the third highest paid, after Gareth Bale moved to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for 100 million euros in 2013, and Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Spaniards from Manchester United for 94 million euros in 2009. Higuain's move could create a ripple effect in the market amid speculation that Paul Pogma may be on his way out to Manchester United from Juventus. The 23-year-old Pogba left United on a free transfer in 2012, but is likely to make the move back to the Premier League this summer. Higuain won the Capocannoniere - Serie A's golden boot - last season after scoring a league record-equalling 36 goals as Napoli finished runners-up to his new club. The news that he was poised to join Juventus caused anguish among Napoli fans, who gathered in Naples city centre on Saturday to tear up pictures of the Argentine and set fire to replicas of his number nine shirt.

Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain joins Juventus for $99 million

football-news

Football News, News on Football News, stories on Football News, articles on Football News, Football News stories at Wion, Football News news, Football News latest news

football news