Spanish football federation president Rafael Louzan has strongly stated that Spain will host the final of the 2030 men’s FIFA World Cup. Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will co-host the tournament, while the opening matches will be played in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay to mark the 100th anniversary of the World Cup. The decision to place the final in Spain comes despite Morocco expressing interest in hosting it. &nbsp;Louzan highlighted Spain’s long experience in organising major football events and said the country is ready to lead the tournament successfully.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Spain has proven its organisational capacity over many years. It will be the leader of the 2030 World Cup and the final of that World Cup will be held here,” Louzan was quoted as saying while speaking at an event organised by the Madrid Sports Press Association.&nbsp;Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-fifa-president-warns-fans-against-traveling-to-us-for-2026-world-cup-here-s-why-1769516903700"> Ex-FIFA president warns fans against traveling to US for 2026 World Cup. Here's why</a>&nbsp;The 2030 World Cup will have opening matches in South America to honour the first World Cup held in 1930, which was staged and won by Uruguay. Argentina were runners-up, and Paraguay is home to Conmebol, the South American football body.&nbsp;Morocco has also expressed its desire to stage the final. The country wants the showpiece match to be played in Casablanca at the Grand Stade Hassan II. The stadium is expected to be completed in 2028 and will have a capacity of around 115,000 people. Last year, Morocco’s Royal Football Federation president Faouzi Lekjaa had said he wanted the final to be played there, possibly in a match against Spain.&nbsp;In Spain, two famous stadiums are seen as leading options to host the final. These are Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu and Barcelona’s Nou Camp. However, Louzan did not give any further details on which venue would be chosen.&nbsp;FIFA has the final authority to decide where the World Cup final will be played. The global football governing body had earlier said it was too early to decide the venue for the final.&nbsp;Louzan also added, “Morocco is really undergoing a transformation in every sense, with magnificent stadiums. We must recognise what has been done well. But in the Africa Cup of Nations, we have seen scenes that damage the image of world football.”&nbsp;For the 2030 World Cup, Spain has proposed 11 stadiums to host matches. Morocco plans to use six stadiums, while Portugal will use three.

Spanish football president has expressed confidence that Spain will host the 2030 World Cup final, preparing the country to lead the tournament successfully.

Spanish football federation president Rafael Louzan has strongly stated that Spain will host the final of the 2030 men’s FIFA World Cup. Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will co-host the tournament, while the opening matches will be played in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay to mark the 100th anniversary of the World Cup. The decision to place the final in Spain comes despite Morocco expressing interest in hosting it. Louzan highlighted Spain’s long experience in organising major football events and said the country is ready to lead the tournament successfully. “Spain has proven its organisational capacity over many years. It will be the leader of the 2030 World Cup and the final of that World Cup will be held here,” Louzan was quoted as saying while speaking at an event organised by the Madrid Sports Press Association. Also read | Ex-FIFA president warns fans against traveling to US for 2026 World Cup. Here's why The 2030 World Cup will have opening matches in South America to honour the first World Cup held in 1930, which was staged and won by Uruguay. Argentina were runners-up, and Paraguay is home to Conmebol, the South American football body. Morocco has also expressed its desire to stage the final. The country wants the showpiece match to be played in Casablanca at the Grand Stade Hassan II. The stadium is expected to be completed in 2028 and will have a capacity of around 115,000 people. Last year, Morocco’s Royal Football Federation president Faouzi Lekjaa had said he wanted the final to be played there, possibly in a match against Spain. In Spain, two famous stadiums are seen as leading options to host the final. These are Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu and Barcelona’s Nou Camp. However, Louzan did not give any further details on which venue would be chosen. FIFA has the final authority to decide where the World Cup final will be played. The global football governing body had earlier said it was too early to decide the venue for the final. Louzan also added, “Morocco is really undergoing a transformation in every sense, with magnificent stadiums. We must recognise what has been done well. But in the Africa Cup of Nations, we have seen scenes that damage the image of world football.” For the 2030 World Cup, Spain has proposed 11 stadiums to host matches. Morocco plans to use six stadiums, while Portugal will use three.

Spanish football president has expressed confidence that Spain will host the 2030 World Cup final, preparing the country to lead the tournament successfully.

Spain will host 2030 FIFA World Cup final: Spanish Football Federation president

The La Liga match between Villarreal and Barcelona in December was moved to Miami by the Spanish football federation (RFEF) on Monday, pending approval from UEFA and FIFA.&nbsp;While the Spanish Super Cup has been played abroad, notably in Saudi Arabia, it would be a first for a game in one of Europe's leading domestic leagues.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;The RFEF said in a statement that it would forward the request to the governing bodies of European and world football to stage the game at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday, December 20, in the last round before La Liga's winter break.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

The Spanish Super Cup has been played abroad, notably in Saudi Arabia, it would be a first for a game in one of Europe's leading domestic leagues.

The La Liga match between Villarreal and Barcelona in December was moved to Miami by the Spanish football federation (RFEF) on Monday, pending approval from UEFA and FIFA. While the Spanish Super Cup has been played abroad, notably in Saudi Arabia, it would be a first for a game in one of Europe's leading domestic leagues. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) The RFEF said in a statement that it would forward the request to the governing bodies of European and world football to stage the game at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday, December 20, in the last round before La Liga's winter break. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Spanish Super Cup has been played abroad, notably in Saudi Arabia, it would be a first for a game in one of Europe's leading domestic leagues.

Spanish football federation shifts Barcelona-Villarreal La Liga game to Miami

Days after Spain triumphed in the Euro 2024 final, the country's football federation (RFEF) suffered a new scandal as its president Pedro Rocha was handed a two-year suspension, according to media reports on Tuesday.

Spanish media outlets Onda Cero and Iusport reported Spain's Administrative Tribunal of Sport (TAD) suspended Rocha due to his making of decisions outside of his power, such as his dismissal of the federation's general secretary Andreu Camps.&nbsp;

Rocha was appointed RFEF president in April, taking the place of disgraced former chief Luis Rubiales, who was forced to step down in September 2023 after forcibly kissing player Jenni Hermoso during the medal ceremony after Spain won the Women's World Cup.

Both Rocha and Rubiales are also under investigation as part of a corruption case involving the federation during the latter's presidency.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/shubman-gill-got-t20i-captaincy-over-ruturaj-gaikwad-because-of-rahul-dravids-liking-amit-mishra-reveals-741422">Shubman Gill got T20I captaincy over Ruturaj Gaikwad because of Rahul Dravid's liking? Amit Mishra reveals</a>

The sanction imposed by the TAD could now prevent Rocha for running in the federation's next presidential elections in September.

According to a copy of the decision, posted on X by an Onda Cero journalist, the tribunal has banned Rocha from "holding a post in any sporting federation" during his two-year suspension.

Iusport reported Rocha will appeal the decision and request to remain in post until his appeal is handled, which would allow him to run for re-election in autumn.

Spain's National Sports Council (CSD), which oversees the TAD, did not respond when contacted by AFP on Tuesday.

Days after Spain triumphed in the Euro 2024 final, the country's football federation (RFEF) suffered a new scandal as its president Pedro Rocha was handed a two-year suspension, according to media reports on Tuesday.

Days after Spain triumphed in the Euro 2024 final, the country's football federation (RFEF) suffered a new scandal as its president Pedro Rocha was handed a two-year suspension, according to media reports on Tuesday. Spanish media outlets Onda Cero and Iusport reported Spain's Administrative Tribunal of Sport (TAD) suspended Rocha due to his making of decisions outside of his power, such as his dismissal of the federation's general secretary Andreu Camps. Rocha was appointed RFEF president in April, taking the place of disgraced former chief Luis Rubiales, who was forced to step down in September 2023 after forcibly kissing player Jenni Hermoso during the medal ceremony after Spain won the Women's World Cup. Both Rocha and Rubiales are also under investigation as part of a corruption case involving the federation during the latter's presidency. ALSO READ | Shubman Gill got T20I captaincy over Ruturaj Gaikwad because of Rahul Dravid's liking? Amit Mishra reveals The sanction imposed by the TAD could now prevent Rocha for running in the federation's next presidential elections in September. According to a copy of the decision, posted on X by an Onda Cero journalist, the tribunal has banned Rocha from "holding a post in any sporting federation" during his two-year suspension. Iusport reported Rocha will appeal the decision and request to remain in post until his appeal is handled, which would allow him to run for re-election in autumn. Spain's National Sports Council (CSD), which oversees the TAD, did not respond when contacted by AFP on Tuesday.

Spanish football federation Chief Pedro Rocha handed two-year ban: Reports

Disgraced former Spanish football federation chief Luis Rubiales on Monday denied any financial "irregularities" after testifying in court in a corruption probe into his time in charge.

"What I maintain, and will always maintain, and I am convinced that justice will (demonstrate),&nbsp;is there has never been any money received in an irregular way," Rubiales told reporters after leaving the Madrid court.

Rubiales, 46, who resigned following global outrage after he forcibly kissed Women's World Cup star Jenni Hermoso last summer after the final, testified at length.

"I have answered all the questions I was asked, if I have to come here again I will be here, collaborating -- I am the one most interested in clearing everything up," said Rubiales.

Rubiales must appear in court every month and ask permission from the judge before making any trips outside of Spain, a court source told AFP.

Rubiales was briefly detained on his return to Spain from the Dominican Republic at the start of April as part of a probe into federation (RFEF) contracts signed since 2018, including one signed by Rubiales to take the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia.

"There has never been any irregular tender, we have been paid with the utmost excellence and in the pursuit of legality," added Rubiales.

On March 20, investigators searched Rubiales' house in the southern city of Granada among 11 locations in the alleged graft scandal.

The raids were part of "an investigation linked to presumed crimes linked with corruption in business, fraudulent administration and money laundering", according to judicial sources.

The Super Cup contracts are worth 40 million euros a year ($43.3 million) with the deal brokered by Kosmos, a company owned by former Barcelona and Spain defender Gerard Pique.

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The Spanish Super Cup took place for the first time in Saudi Arabia in 2020.

It returned to Spain for a year during the Covid-19 pandemic but the subsequent three editions have returned to the oil-rich Gulf state.

New Spanish football president Pedro Rocha is also under investigation in the alleged graft case.

Rocha served as federation vice-president under Rubiales, then replaced him on an interim basis before being elected as chief this week.

Rubiales is also set to go on trial over the non-consensual kiss on Hermoso's lips, which under Spanish law can be classed as sexual assault.

Disgraced former Spanish football federation chief Luis Rubiales on Monday denied any financial "irregularities" after testifying in court in a corruption probe into his time in charge.

Disgraced former Spanish football federation chief Luis Rubiales on Monday denied any financial "irregularities" after testifying in court in a corruption probe into his time in charge. "What I maintain, and will always maintain, and I am convinced that justice will (demonstrate), is there has never been any money received in an irregular way," Rubiales told reporters after leaving the Madrid court. Rubiales, 46, who resigned following global outrage after he forcibly kissed Women's World Cup star Jenni Hermoso last summer after the final, testified at length. "I have answered all the questions I was asked, if I have to come here again I will be here, collaborating -- I am the one most interested in clearing everything up," said Rubiales. Rubiales must appear in court every month and ask permission from the judge before making any trips outside of Spain, a court source told AFP. Rubiales was briefly detained on his return to Spain from the Dominican Republic at the start of April as part of a probe into federation (RFEF) contracts signed since 2018, including one signed by Rubiales to take the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia. "There has never been any irregular tender, we have been paid with the utmost excellence and in the pursuit of legality," added Rubiales. On March 20, investigators searched Rubiales' house in the southern city of Granada among 11 locations in the alleged graft scandal. The raids were part of "an investigation linked to presumed crimes linked with corruption in business, fraudulent administration and money laundering", according to judicial sources. The Super Cup contracts are worth 40 million euros a year ($43.3 million) with the deal brokered by Kosmos, a company owned by former Barcelona and Spain defender Gerard Pique. ALSO READ | ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024: Latest updates of all squads named so far The Spanish Super Cup took place for the first time in Saudi Arabia in 2020. It returned to Spain for a year during the Covid-19 pandemic but the subsequent three editions have returned to the oil-rich Gulf state. New Spanish football president Pedro Rocha is also under investigation in the alleged graft case. Rocha served as federation vice-president under Rubiales, then replaced him on an interim basis before being elected as chief this week. Rubiales is also set to go on trial over the non-consensual kiss on Hermoso's lips, which under Spanish law can be classed as sexual assault.

Football: Luis Rubiales denies ‘irregularities’ in Spanish football corruption probe

The Spanish football federation appointed Pedro Rocha as its president on Friday, after disgraced former chief Luis Rubiales stepped down last September.

Rocha, currently under investigation as part of a corruption case involving the federation, had filled the role on an interim basis and was left as the only candidate for the election due to take place in May.

This week the Spanish government resolved to oversee the scandal-hit organisation "in response to the federation's crisis".

"Pedro Rocha has today been proclaimed the new president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), after having received the support of the majority of the assembly members of this institution that governs Spanish football," said the federation in a statement.

"This was agreed by the electoral commission, which met this morning."

When the Spanish government's National Sports Council (CSD) gathered Thursday, deciding to create a committee to oversee the federation, they did not suspend Rocha, which allowed the RFEF to appoint the 69-year-old as chief.

Spain's leading sports court had issued a report saying the RFEF, led by Rocha on an interim basis after Rubiales resigned, had taken decisions "beyond its remit" in that period.

It was the sport court's report that led to Thursday's CSD decision to oversee the federation.

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World and European football governing bodies FIFA and UEFA issued a statement Thursday expressing "great concern" at the situation around the RFEF.

"FIFA and UEFA will seek additional information to assess the extent to which the CSD's appointment (of the committee)... may affect the RFEF's obligation to manage its affairs independently and without undue government interference," they said.

Spain are due to host the 2030 World Cup along with with Portugal and Morocco.

Former RFEF president Rubiales eventually quit his post last year after his forcible kiss on the lips of Women's World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso sparked worldwide outrage.

Rubiales and his former vice-president Rocha are both being investigated in the corruption probe.

The Spanish football federation appointed Pedro Rocha as its president on Friday, after disgraced former chief Luis Rubiales stepped down last September. Rocha, currently under investigation as part of a corruption case involving the federation, had filled the role on an interim basis and was left as the only candidate for the election due to take place in May.

The Spanish football federation appointed Pedro Rocha as its president on Friday, after disgraced former chief Luis Rubiales stepped down last September. Rocha, currently under investigation as part of a corruption case involving the federation, had filled the role on an interim basis and was left as the only candidate for the election due to take place in May. This week the Spanish government resolved to oversee the scandal-hit organisation "in response to the federation's crisis". "Pedro Rocha has today been proclaimed the new president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), after having received the support of the majority of the assembly members of this institution that governs Spanish football," said the federation in a statement. "This was agreed by the electoral commission, which met this morning." When the Spanish government's National Sports Council (CSD) gathered Thursday, deciding to create a committee to oversee the federation, they did not suspend Rocha, which allowed the RFEF to appoint the 69-year-old as chief. Spain's leading sports court had issued a report saying the RFEF, led by Rocha on an interim basis after Rubiales resigned, had taken decisions "beyond its remit" in that period. It was the sport court's report that led to Thursday's CSD decision to oversee the federation. ALSO READ | Premier League: 'It is abuse,' Manchester United's Rashford hits out at criticism World and European football governing bodies FIFA and UEFA issued a statement Thursday expressing "great concern" at the situation around the RFEF. "FIFA and UEFA will seek additional information to assess the extent to which the CSD's appointment (of the committee)... may affect the RFEF's obligation to manage its affairs independently and without undue government interference," they said. Spain are due to host the 2030 World Cup along with with Portugal and Morocco. Former RFEF president Rubiales eventually quit his post last year after his forcible kiss on the lips of Women's World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso sparked worldwide outrage. Rubiales and his former vice-president Rocha are both being investigated in the corruption probe.

Football: Spanish football federation appoints Pedro Rocha as president

Jenni Hermoso was summoned Wednesday by the judge investigating the events surrounding the then Spanish federation chief Luis Rubiales kissing her at the Women's World Cup final trophy ceremony.

Rubiales eventually resigned over the issue -- he insisted the kiss post Spain winning the trophy in Australia in August was consensual -- and is being investigated for alleged sexual assault and coercion.

Judge Francisco de Jorge, leading the investigation against Rubiales, summoned Hermoso on Tuesday November 28 at 1030GMT "in person", the National Court said in a brief statement.

Hermoso, 33, reported the incident to the courts in early September. Currently he is banned from being within 200 metres of Hermoso.

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Former women's national team coach Jorge Vilda, the director of the men's national team, Albert Luque, and the RFEF's marketing director are also under investigation for allegedly pressuring Hermoso.

Numerous witnesses haven given evidence in court including two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, among other team-mates of Hermoso.

Rubiales' conduct, caught on camera, provoked a wave of international outrage and led to his suspension by world football governing body FIFA.

Rubiales eventually resigned on September 10 after initially refusing to.

Hermoso was left out of Spain coach Montse Tome's first squad list but returned for Nations League matches in October and has been called up for further games in December.

Jenni Hermoso was summoned Wednesday by the judge investigating the events surrounding the then Spanish federation chief Luis Rubiales kissing her at the Women's World Cup final trophy ceremony.

Jenni Hermoso was summoned Wednesday by the judge investigating the events surrounding the then Spanish federation chief Luis Rubiales kissing her at the Women's World Cup final trophy ceremony. Rubiales eventually resigned over the issue -- he insisted the kiss post Spain winning the trophy in Australia in August was consensual -- and is being investigated for alleged sexual assault and coercion. Judge Francisco de Jorge, leading the investigation against Rubiales, summoned Hermoso on Tuesday November 28 at 1030GMT "in person", the National Court said in a brief statement. Hermoso, 33, reported the incident to the courts in early September. Currently he is banned from being within 200 metres of Hermoso. ALSO READ | Gautam Gambhir feels India's timid batting in middle-overs cost them in CWC 2023 final vs Australia Former women's national team coach Jorge Vilda, the director of the men's national team, Albert Luque, and the RFEF's marketing director are also under investigation for allegedly pressuring Hermoso. Numerous witnesses haven given evidence in court including two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, among other team-mates of Hermoso. Rubiales' conduct, caught on camera, provoked a wave of international outrage and led to his suspension by world football governing body FIFA. Rubiales eventually resigned on September 10 after initially refusing to. Hermoso was left out of Spain coach Montse Tome's first squad list but returned for Nations League matches in October and has been called up for further games in December.

Football: Spain’s Jenni Hermoso summoned by judge in Luis Rubiales case

Former Spanish Football Federation chief&nbsp;Luis Rubiales has been banned from all football-related activities for three years, FIFA announced on Monday (September 30).&nbsp;

Rubiales had&nbsp;been embroiled in a major controversy after&nbsp;he kissed Spain’s World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso on the lips, without her consent.&nbsp;

“The Fifa Disciplinary Committee has banned Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Association (RFEF), from all football-related activities at national and international levels for three years, having found that he acted in breach of article 13 of the Fifa Disciplinary Code," FIFA said in a statement.&nbsp;

“This case relates to the events that occurred during the final of the Fifa Women’s World Cup on 20 August 2023, for which Mr Rubiales had been provisionally suspended for an initial period of 90 days. Mr Rubiales has been notified of the terms of the Fifa Disciplinary Committee’s decision today," it added.

The governing body for football said it was absolutely committed to "respecting and protecting the integrity of all people and ensuring that the basic rules of decent conduct are upheld".&nbsp;

FIFA said&nbsp;Rubiales had 10 days in which he can "request a motivated decision, which, if requested, would subsequently be published on legal.fifa.com".&nbsp;

"The decision remains subject to a possible appeal before the Fifa appeal committee."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-controversial-spanish-football-official-luis-rubiales-629155">Also read |&nbsp;Who is controversial Spanish football official Luis Rubiales?</a>

<h2>I wasn't respected:&nbsp;Hermoso</h2>

After the incident, Hermoso said the incident had left her "vulnerable and a victim of aggression". She described&nbsp;Rubiales' kiss as&nbsp;a sexist and impulsive act which had no consent from her side.

"Simply put I was not respected,” she added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-spanish-football-chief-luis-rubiales-steps-down-635026">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Spanish football Chief Luis Rubiales steps down</a>

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Despite strong public backlash,&nbsp;Rubiales had initially refused to resign from his position, before succumbing to the pressure. He also claimed the kiss was consensual and vowed to defend his innocence in a statement published last month.&nbsp;

“I have faith in the truth and I will do everything in my power so that it prevails," he said.&nbsp;

The incident overshadowed what was a historic World Cup win for the Spanish side in Australia.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Former Spanish Football Federation chief Luis Rubiales has been banned from all football-related activities for three years, FIFA announced on Monday (September 30).

Former Spanish Football Federation chief Luis Rubiales has been banned from all football-related activities for three years, FIFA announced on Monday (September 30). Rubiales had been embroiled in a major controversy after he kissed Spain’s World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso on the lips, without her consent. “The Fifa Disciplinary Committee has banned Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Association (RFEF), from all football-related activities at national and international levels for three years, having found that he acted in breach of article 13 of the Fifa Disciplinary Code," FIFA said in a statement. “This case relates to the events that occurred during the final of the Fifa Women’s World Cup on 20 August 2023, for which Mr Rubiales had been provisionally suspended for an initial period of 90 days. Mr Rubiales has been notified of the terms of the Fifa Disciplinary Committee’s decision today," it added. The governing body for football said it was absolutely committed to "respecting and protecting the integrity of all people and ensuring that the basic rules of decent conduct are upheld". FIFA said Rubiales had 10 days in which he can "request a motivated decision, which, if requested, would subsequently be published on legal.fifa.com". "The decision remains subject to a possible appeal before the Fifa appeal committee." Also read | Who is controversial Spanish football official Luis Rubiales? I wasn't respected: Hermoso After the incident, Hermoso said the incident had left her "vulnerable and a victim of aggression". She described Rubiales' kiss as a sexist and impulsive act which had no consent from her side. "Simply put I was not respected,” she added. Watch | Gravitas: Spanish football Chief Luis Rubiales steps down × Despite strong public backlash, Rubiales had initially refused to resign from his position, before succumbing to the pressure. He also claimed the kiss was consensual and vowed to defend his innocence in a statement published last month. “I have faith in the truth and I will do everything in my power so that it prevails," he said. The incident overshadowed what was a historic World Cup win for the Spanish side in Australia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Former Spanish football chief Luis Rubiales banned for three years over non-consensual kiss

Players from Spain's women's top flight, Liga F, have called a strike for the first two weeks of the season over pay and conditions, said players' union AFE on Friday.

"The call for this strike is a result of the impasse in the 'Convenio Colectivo (Collective Bargaining Agreement)' negotiations," said the AFE in a statement, the largest of several unions negotiating together on behalf of the players.

"The aim is to make progress in these negotiations, to achieve fair and dignified treatment for women footballers, (and) to address and reduce the existing pay gap."

One of the key issues is agreeing over a minimum wage for players.

Negotiations began a year ago, when Liga F was professionalised.

The first round of fixtures is due to take place between September 8-10, while the second round is September 15-17.

Last season, a refereeing strike had disrupted the first week of Liga F matches.

Eventually the league agreed to pay referees higher match fees, while the Spanish government said they would contribute to a refereeing retirement fund.

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Spanish women's football has been in the spotlight after La Roja won the World Cup in August, but the victory was tainted by an incident involving federation chief Luis Rubiales at the medal ceremony after the game.

Rubiales, 46, sparked worldwide outrage when he forcibly kissed Spain midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips.

The federation chief provoked further upset with a defiant speech in which he refused to resign despite mounting pressure and instead railed against "false feminism".

Rubiales insisted his kiss was consensual, but Hermoso said it was not and she felt like the "victim of an assault".

World football governing body FIFA provisionally suspended Rubiales for 90 days while they study disciplinary action and the Spanish government are seeking to impose their own sanction.

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Players from Spain's women's top flight, Liga F, have called a strike for the first two weeks of the season over pay and conditions, said players' union AFE on Friday.

Players from Spain's women's top flight, Liga F, have called a strike for the first two weeks of the season over pay and conditions, said players' union AFE on Friday. "The call for this strike is a result of the impasse in the 'Convenio Colectivo (Collective Bargaining Agreement)' negotiations," said the AFE in a statement, the largest of several unions negotiating together on behalf of the players. "The aim is to make progress in these negotiations, to achieve fair and dignified treatment for women footballers, (and) to address and reduce the existing pay gap." One of the key issues is agreeing over a minimum wage for players. Negotiations began a year ago, when Liga F was professionalised. The first round of fixtures is due to take place between September 8-10, while the second round is September 15-17. Last season, a refereeing strike had disrupted the first week of Liga F matches. Eventually the league agreed to pay referees higher match fees, while the Spanish government said they would contribute to a refereeing retirement fund. ALSO READ | Transfer Deadline Day Live: Chelsea complete Cole Palmer deal, João Palhinha to Bayern, Højbjerg to Fulham Spanish women's football has been in the spotlight after La Roja won the World Cup in August, but the victory was tainted by an incident involving federation chief Luis Rubiales at the medal ceremony after the game. Rubiales, 46, sparked worldwide outrage when he forcibly kissed Spain midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips. The federation chief provoked further upset with a defiant speech in which he refused to resign despite mounting pressure and instead railed against "false feminism". Rubiales insisted his kiss was consensual, but Hermoso said it was not and she felt like the "victim of an assault". World football governing body FIFA provisionally suspended Rubiales for 90 days while they study disciplinary action and the Spanish government are seeking to impose their own sanction. 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 women's league players call strike over pay, not to participate in first two weeks of season

The regional leaders of the Spanish Football Federation appealed for the immediate resignation of their President Luis Rubiales after he kissed player Jenni Hermoso. The call for resignation was published in a statement published on Tuesday (August 29) after an emergency meeting. 
 
The world's governing soccer body FIFA suspended Rubiales on Saturday for forcibly kissing a female player during the victory celebrations of the women’s team’s World Cup. 
 
“After the recent events and the unacceptable behaviours that have seriously damaged the image of Spanish football, the presidents request that, immediately, Mr. Luis Rubiales submits his resignation as president of the RFEF [Royal Spanish Football Federation]," stated the RFEF, on behalf of the committee of regional presidents.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-luis-rubiales-spain-prosecutors-open-preliminary-sex-abuse-probe-over-kiss-controversy-629996">Big blow to Luis Rubiales! Spain prosecutors open preliminary sex abuse probe over kiss controversy</a>

All the 19 regional presidents also expressed their unanimous support to the interim RFEF president Pedro Rocha, “to lead a new stage of dialogue and reconciliation with all of the football institutions,” read the statement. Rubiales, after getting suspended by FIFA, was replaced by Rocha. 
 
"We will urge the relevant authorities to carry out a profound and imminent organisational restructuring in strategic positions of the federation in order to make way for a new stage in the management of Spanish football," added the statement. 
 
Rubiales, who is facing increasing pressure to resign, will now have to go through an investigation that can end with sexual aggression charges against him from Spanish prosecutors.

WATCH |&nbsp;Spanish federation threatens legal action over Hermoso 'lies'

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<h2>Mother on ‘hunger strike’</h2>

Earlier, Rubiales's mother&nbsp;locked herself in a church and sat on a hunger strike in protest against the “inhumane, bloodthirsty hunt” of her 46-year-old son, reported Spanish media. 
 
As per reports, Angeles Bejar on Monday said that she will stay in the church in Motril, near Granada in southern Spain, “indefinitely, day and night” until justice is done with Rubiales. 
 
The RFEF and soccer chief are involved in a controversy since he kissed 33-year-old attacker Hermoso after Spain clinched the first Women’s World Cup title against England. 
 
Rubiales accepted that he made a mistake, however, he claimed that the kiss was consensual. Meanwhile, Hermoso stated that she had not permitted the kiss and felt violated. 
 
“I felt vulnerable and a victim of an impulse-driven, sexist, out-of-place act without any consent on my part. Simply put I was not respected,” she stated on social media.

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The regional leaders of the Spanish Football Federation appealed for the immediate resignation of their President Luis Rubiales after he kissed player Jenni Hermoso.

The regional leaders of the Spanish Football Federation appealed for the immediate resignation of their President Luis Rubiales after he kissed player Jenni Hermoso. The call for resignation was published in a statement published on Tuesday (August 29) after an emergency meeting. The world's governing soccer body FIFA suspended Rubiales on Saturday for forcibly kissing a female player during the victory celebrations of the women’s team’s World Cup. “After the recent events and the unacceptable behaviours that have seriously damaged the image of Spanish football, the presidents request that, immediately, Mr. Luis Rubiales submits his resignation as president of the RFEF [Royal Spanish Football Federation]," stated the RFEF, on behalf of the committee of regional presidents. ALSO READ | Big blow to Luis Rubiales! Spain prosecutors open preliminary sex abuse probe over kiss controversy All the 19 regional presidents also expressed their unanimous support to the interim RFEF president Pedro Rocha, “to lead a new stage of dialogue and reconciliation with all of the football institutions,” read the statement. Rubiales, after getting suspended by FIFA, was replaced by Rocha. "We will urge the relevant authorities to carry out a profound and imminent organisational restructuring in strategic positions of the federation in order to make way for a new stage in the management of Spanish football," added the statement. Rubiales, who is facing increasing pressure to resign, will now have to go through an investigation that can end with sexual aggression charges against him from Spanish prosecutors. WATCH | Spanish federation threatens legal action over Hermoso 'lies' Mother on ‘hunger strike’ Earlier, Rubiales's mother locked herself in a church and sat on a hunger strike in protest against the “inhumane, bloodthirsty hunt” of her 46-year-old son, reported Spanish media. As per reports, Angeles Bejar on Monday said that she will stay in the church in Motril, near Granada in southern Spain, “indefinitely, day and night” until justice is done with Rubiales. The RFEF and soccer chief are involved in a controversy since he kissed 33-year-old attacker Hermoso after Spain clinched the first Women’s World Cup title against England. Rubiales accepted that he made a mistake, however, he claimed that the kiss was consensual. Meanwhile, Hermoso stated that she had not permitted the kiss and felt violated. “I felt vulnerable and a victim of an impulse-driven, sexist, out-of-place act without any consent on my part. Simply put I was not respected,” she stated on social media. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Spanish Football Federation calls for resignation of Luis Rubiales amid kiss controversy

The mother of Spanish soccer chief Luis Rubiales started a hunger strike inside a church on Monday to protest against what she called her son's "inhumane treatment" over his grabbing and kissing player Jenni Hermoso, his cousin said.

Rubiales, who is president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), was suspended on Saturday by FIFA amid a furore after he kissed Hermoso on the mouth during the awards ceremony following Spain's World Cup victory in Sydney on Aug. 20. Hermoso says she did not want to be kissed.

He has refused to resign even as the matter has spiralled into a national row over macho behaviour, women's rights and sexual abuse.

The RFEF, which has defended Rubiales, has called an urgent meeting on Monday to evaluate the situation.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-americas-jack-sock-set-to-retire-after-us-open-629944">Tennis: America's Jack Sock set to retire after US Open</a>

Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz was also meeting on Monday with representatives of the women players' union FUTPRO, which represents Hermoso, and the Association of Spanish Footballers.

"What footballer Jenni Hermoso has experienced should never have happened," Diaz said in a video statement prior to the meeting.

Rubiales' cousin, Vanessa Ruiz, told reporters that the family was suffering and facing harassment over what she described as "unfair" premature judgements.

"We want to be left alone and justice to prevail...Jenni, we want you to tell the truth." Ruiz said.

She said his mother Angeles Bejar had gone on hunger strike and did not wish to leave the parish church of Divina Pastora in Rubiales' hometown in Motril, southern Spain.

Bejar told state news agency EFE her strike would last "until a solution is found to the inhumane and bloody hunt they are carrying out against my son with something he does not deserve".

"There is no sexual abuse since there is consent on both sides, as the images prove," Bejar told EFE. "My son is incapable of hurting anyone."

Rubiales, 46, has been defiant over the kiss - which has been condemned as unwanted by Hermoso, her team mates, several male players, and the Spanish government.

At a federation meeting on Friday where he had been widely expected to step down, Rubiales instead refused to quit, seeking to defend his behaviour and calling the kiss "spontaneous, mutual, euphoric and consensual".

RFEF has said Rubiales will defend himself legally to prove "his complete innocence".

Hermoso said she did not consent to the kiss and felt "vulnerable and the victim of an aggression".

Gender issues have become a prominent topic in Spain in recent years. Tens of thousands of women have taken part in street marches protesting against sexual abuse and violence, and the Socialist-led coalition government has presided over legal reforms including around equal pay or abortion rights.

Feminist groups have called a demonstration on Monday in Madrid entitled "With You Jenni". Hundreds of people staged a demonstration on Sunday in Salamanca against Rubiales.

The Spanish government cannot fire Rubiales but has strongly denounced his actions and said on Friday it was seeking to get him suspended using a legal procedure before a sports tribunal.

All 23 of Spain's cup-winning squad including Hermoso, as well as dozens of other squad members, said on Friday they would not play internationals while Rubiales remained head of the federation. Their next match is away to Sweden in the Nations League on Sept. 22.

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The mother of Spanish soccer chief Luis Rubiales started a hunger strike inside a church on Monday to protest against what she called her son's "inhumane treatment" over his grabbing and kissing player Jenni Hermoso, his cousin said.

The mother of Spanish soccer chief Luis Rubiales started a hunger strike inside a church on Monday to protest against what she called her son's "inhumane treatment" over his grabbing and kissing player Jenni Hermoso, his cousin said. Rubiales, who is president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), was suspended on Saturday by FIFA amid a furore after he kissed Hermoso on the mouth during the awards ceremony following Spain's World Cup victory in Sydney on Aug. 20. Hermoso says she did not want to be kissed. He has refused to resign even as the matter has spiralled into a national row over macho behaviour, women's rights and sexual abuse. The RFEF, which has defended Rubiales, has called an urgent meeting on Monday to evaluate the situation. ALSO READ: Tennis: America's Jack Sock set to retire after US Open Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz was also meeting on Monday with representatives of the women players' union FUTPRO, which represents Hermoso, and the Association of Spanish Footballers. "What footballer Jenni Hermoso has experienced should never have happened," Diaz said in a video statement prior to the meeting. Rubiales' cousin, Vanessa Ruiz, told reporters that the family was suffering and facing harassment over what she described as "unfair" premature judgements. "We want to be left alone and justice to prevail...Jenni, we want you to tell the truth." Ruiz said. She said his mother Angeles Bejar had gone on hunger strike and did not wish to leave the parish church of Divina Pastora in Rubiales' hometown in Motril, southern Spain. Bejar told state news agency EFE her strike would last "until a solution is found to the inhumane and bloody hunt they are carrying out against my son with something he does not deserve". "There is no sexual abuse since there is consent on both sides, as the images prove," Bejar told EFE. "My son is incapable of hurting anyone." Rubiales, 46, has been defiant over the kiss - which has been condemned as unwanted by Hermoso, her team mates, several male players, and the Spanish government. At a federation meeting on Friday where he had been widely expected to step down, Rubiales instead refused to quit, seeking to defend his behaviour and calling the kiss "spontaneous, mutual, euphoric and consensual". RFEF has said Rubiales will defend himself legally to prove "his complete innocence". Hermoso said she did not consent to the kiss and felt "vulnerable and the victim of an aggression". Gender issues have become a prominent topic in Spain in recent years. Tens of thousands of women have taken part in street marches protesting against sexual abuse and violence, and the Socialist-led coalition government has presided over legal reforms including around equal pay or abortion rights. Feminist groups have called a demonstration on Monday in Madrid entitled "With You Jenni". Hundreds of people staged a demonstration on Sunday in Salamanca against Rubiales. The Spanish government cannot fire Rubiales but has strongly denounced his actions and said on Friday it was seeking to get him suspended using a legal procedure before a sports tribunal. All 23 of Spain's cup-winning squad including Hermoso, as well as dozens of other squad members, said on Friday they would not play internationals while Rubiales remained head of the federation. Their next match is away to Sweden in the Nations League on Sept. 22. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kiss row: Luis Rubiales' mother goes on hunger strike, says son 'incapable' of hurting anyone

Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta on Sunday added to mounting criticism of the country's suspended federation president Luis Rubiales, saying his forced kiss with Jenni Hermoso after the women's World Cup final was "damaging the image" of Spanish football.

"After what has happened this week, I would like to convey my sadness as a person, as a father of three daughters, as a husband and as a footballer" at what has happened around "our football and around the Spanish women's national team", Iniesta wrote on his social networks.

"I believe that we cannot tolerate actions like the ones we have seen, which have tarnished such a great milestone as winning a World Cup," added the scorer of the goal against the Netherlands in the 2010 men's final, which gave Spain their first World Cup.

Hermoso said "at no time" did she consent to the kiss on the lips following the 1-0 win in the final against England in Sydney, which Rubiales described as "mutual, euphoric and consensual".

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Hermoso and 80 other Spain players, including the entire World Cup squad, said they will not play for the national team until the Spanish football federation (RFEF) "leadership" changes.

The majority of the women's team's coaching staff have also offered their resignations.

On Sunday, the RFEF's Sexual Violence Protection delegate clarified an "investigation process" was underway and that a federation press release on Saturday, responding to Hermoso's union Futpro, was not from her committee.

World football governing body FIFA suspended Rubiales from his post on Saturday for 90 days, while the Spanish government are working on their own suspension, which could happen Monday.

"I can't imagine the feeling that all the national team players must be feeling right now seeing how they are not talking about the great tournament they had and the fantastic football they taught us all," continued Iniesta. "Instead, we have had to put up with a president who has clung on to his position, who has not admitted that his behaviour has been unacceptable and is damaging the image of our country and our football around the world.

"It's a shame that a beautiful story that so many players have built over so many years has been soiled."

Criticism for Rubiales has gone far beyond the world of football.

"I stand with Jenni Hermoso," American actress Natalie Portman posted on Instagram.

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Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta on Sunday added to mounting criticism of the country's suspended federation president Luis Rubiales, saying his forced kiss with Jenni Hermoso after the women's World Cup final was "damaging the image" of Spanish football.

Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta on Sunday added to mounting criticism of the country's suspended federation president Luis Rubiales, saying his forced kiss with Jenni Hermoso after the women's World Cup final was "damaging the image" of Spanish football. "After what has happened this week, I would like to convey my sadness as a person, as a father of three daughters, as a husband and as a footballer" at what has happened around "our football and around the Spanish women's national team", Iniesta wrote on his social networks. "I believe that we cannot tolerate actions like the ones we have seen, which have tarnished such a great milestone as winning a World Cup," added the scorer of the goal against the Netherlands in the 2010 men's final, which gave Spain their first World Cup. Hermoso said "at no time" did she consent to the kiss on the lips following the 1-0 win in the final against England in Sydney, which Rubiales described as "mutual, euphoric and consensual". ALSO READ: Football: Lionel Messi's debut goal for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer - WATCH Hermoso and 80 other Spain players, including the entire World Cup squad, said they will not play for the national team until the Spanish football federation (RFEF) "leadership" changes. The majority of the women's team's coaching staff have also offered their resignations. On Sunday, the RFEF's Sexual Violence Protection delegate clarified an "investigation process" was underway and that a federation press release on Saturday, responding to Hermoso's union Futpro, was not from her committee. World football governing body FIFA suspended Rubiales from his post on Saturday for 90 days, while the Spanish government are working on their own suspension, which could happen Monday. "I can't imagine the feeling that all the national team players must be feeling right now seeing how they are not talking about the great tournament they had and the fantastic football they taught us all," continued Iniesta. "Instead, we have had to put up with a president who has clung on to his position, who has not admitted that his behaviour has been unacceptable and is damaging the image of our country and our football around the world. "It's a shame that a beautiful story that so many players have built over so many years has been soiled." Criticism for Rubiales has gone far beyond the world of football. "I stand with Jenni Hermoso," American actress Natalie Portman posted on Instagram. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

I am sad as a person, father, husband and footballer: Iniesta on kiss row involving suspended Luis Rubiales

Spanish soccer boss Luis Rubiales on Friday refused to resign for grabbing star player Jenni Hermoso's head and kissing her on the lips after Spain's Women's World Cup victory, leading the national team to mutiny and the government to denounce his "macho actions".

In a joint statement sent via their FUTPRO union, all 23 of the cup-winning squad including Hermoso, as well as 32 other squad members, said they would not play internationals while Rubiales remains head of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

In the same statement, Hermoso denied Rubiales' contention that his kiss at the medal ceremony after Spain beat England 1-0 in the final in Sydney, Australia, was consensual.

"I do not tolerate it when my word is put into doubt and less so when words that I have not said are invented," she wrote.

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Later, in a statement on social media on Friday, Hermoso added: "I felt vulnerable and a victim of aggression. I was simply not respected."

She said she had been put under "continuous pressure to justify Mr Rubiales' actions" by the RFEF. She added that the incident was "the final straw" in a long list of situations that players had been denouncing for years.

The federation, which has not responded to her latest comments, called an emergency meeting on Friday at which Rubiales had been widely expected to stand down. But instead he said repeatedly that he would not quit and complained that "false feminists" were "trying to kill me".

He called the kiss a "little peck" that was "spontaneous, mutual, euphoric and consensual". He also claimed that he asked Hermoso if he could kiss her and that she said "OK".

"Is a consensual peck going to take me out of here? I won't resign. I will fight until the end," said Rubiales, 46, drawing applause from the predominantly male audience.

The comments and reaction from the audience were widely scorned on social media.

Criticism of Rubiales' behaviour after Spain's win has built throughout the week, and acting Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz called his speech on Friday "unacceptable".

She wrote on social media: "The government must act and take urgent measures: impunity for macho actions is over. Rubiales cannot continue in office."

Acting Equality Minister Irene Montero said the state prosecutor and the state-run sports council CSD should act to protect Hermoso.

FIFA opened disciplinary procedures against Rubiales on Thursday after Hermoso said in a statement her union was working to defend her interests and that such acts should "never go unpunished".

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Spanish soccer boss Luis Rubiales on Friday refused to resign for grabbing star player Jenni Hermoso's head and kissing her on the lips after Spain's Women's World Cup victory, leading the national team to mutiny and the government to denounce his "macho actions".

Spanish soccer boss Luis Rubiales on Friday refused to resign for grabbing star player Jenni Hermoso's head and kissing her on the lips after Spain's Women's World Cup victory, leading the national team to mutiny and the government to denounce his "macho actions". In a joint statement sent via their FUTPRO union, all 23 of the cup-winning squad including Hermoso, as well as 32 other squad members, said they would not play internationals while Rubiales remains head of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). In the same statement, Hermoso denied Rubiales' contention that his kiss at the medal ceremony after Spain beat England 1-0 in the final in Sydney, Australia, was consensual. "I do not tolerate it when my word is put into doubt and less so when words that I have not said are invented," she wrote. ALSO READ: Premier League: Mauricio Pochettino's new-look Chelsea storm pass Luton Town 3-0 Later, in a statement on social media on Friday, Hermoso added: "I felt vulnerable and a victim of aggression. I was simply not respected." She said she had been put under "continuous pressure to justify Mr Rubiales' actions" by the RFEF. She added that the incident was "the final straw" in a long list of situations that players had been denouncing for years. The federation, which has not responded to her latest comments, called an emergency meeting on Friday at which Rubiales had been widely expected to stand down. But instead he said repeatedly that he would not quit and complained that "false feminists" were "trying to kill me". He called the kiss a "little peck" that was "spontaneous, mutual, euphoric and consensual". He also claimed that he asked Hermoso if he could kiss her and that she said "OK". "Is a consensual peck going to take me out of here? I won't resign. I will fight until the end," said Rubiales, 46, drawing applause from the predominantly male audience. The comments and reaction from the audience were widely scorned on social media. Criticism of Rubiales' behaviour after Spain's win has built throughout the week, and acting Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz called his speech on Friday "unacceptable". She wrote on social media: "The government must act and take urgent measures: impunity for macho actions is over. Rubiales cannot continue in office." Acting Equality Minister Irene Montero said the state prosecutor and the state-run sports council CSD should act to protect Hermoso. FIFA opened disciplinary procedures against Rubiales on Thursday after Hermoso said in a statement her union was working to defend her interests and that such acts should "never go unpunished". WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Spain's World Cup-winning women's team refuses to play international games till Luis Rubiales holds office

Spanish football federation (RFEF) President Luis Rubiales plans to resign on Friday after FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against him over his unsolicited kiss on the mouth of player Jenni Hermoso during celebrations after Spain's Women's World Cup victory, Cadena Ser radio reported on Thursday.

Rubiales has been under fire after kissing Hermoso on the lips while handing the team their medals after they beat England 1-0 in the final in Sydney on Sunday.

The incident sparked outrage within and outside Spain, with many, including government ministers, demanding his resignation.

Pressure continued to mount during the week after FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Rubiales and Hermoso said in statement that such acts "should never go unpunished".

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As the backlash grew, Rubiales, who initially called his critics "idiots", issued a video apology late on Monday, but it failed to quell the uproar.

An RFEF spokesperson declined to comment.

Regional leaders of the RFEF held a crisis meeting in Madrid on Thursday to discuss Rubiales's future and options for a potential successor, a source told Reuters.

The favourites to succeed Rubiales are Pedro Rocha, head of the Extremadura football federation, and Pablo Lozano, head of the Andalusia federation, the source said.

Rubiales, who played for several lower league clubs in Spain, finished his playing career in 2009 with Hamilton Academical in Scotland.

A year later he was named President of the Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE), a position he held until announcing his candidacy for the RFEF top job in 2017. He was elected in May 2018.

He promised to modernise the structure, increase turnover and make the federation more transparent, following the arrest of former president Angel Maria Villar on corruption charges.

However, Rubiales' mandate was full of controversies, including the shocking decision to sack Spain manager Julen Lopetegui two days before their opening 2018 World Cup match and accusations of wrongdoing over a multimillion-euro deal to relocate the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia.

There was also a mutiny within the Spain women's squad last September, when a large group of players demanded that long-standing coach Jorge Vilda be sacked. The RFEF backed Vilda and he cut 12 of the 15 players involved in the dispute from his World Cup squad.

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Spanish football federation (RFEF) President Luis Rubiales plans to resign on Friday after FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against him over his unsolicited kiss on the mouth of player Jenni Hermoso during celebrations after Spain's Women's World Cup victory, Cadena Ser radio reported on Thursday.

Spanish football federation (RFEF) President Luis Rubiales plans to resign on Friday after FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against him over his unsolicited kiss on the mouth of player Jenni Hermoso during celebrations after Spain's Women's World Cup victory, Cadena Ser radio reported on Thursday. Rubiales has been under fire after kissing Hermoso on the lips while handing the team their medals after they beat England 1-0 in the final in Sydney on Sunday. The incident sparked outrage within and outside Spain, with many, including government ministers, demanding his resignation. Pressure continued to mount during the week after FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Rubiales and Hermoso said in statement that such acts "should never go unpunished". ALSO READ: Manchester City centre-back Aymeric Laporte joins Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr for £23 million As the backlash grew, Rubiales, who initially called his critics "idiots", issued a video apology late on Monday, but it failed to quell the uproar. An RFEF spokesperson declined to comment. Regional leaders of the RFEF held a crisis meeting in Madrid on Thursday to discuss Rubiales's future and options for a potential successor, a source told Reuters. The favourites to succeed Rubiales are Pedro Rocha, head of the Extremadura football federation, and Pablo Lozano, head of the Andalusia federation, the source said. Rubiales, who played for several lower league clubs in Spain, finished his playing career in 2009 with Hamilton Academical in Scotland. A year later he was named President of the Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE), a position he held until announcing his candidacy for the RFEF top job in 2017. He was elected in May 2018. He promised to modernise the structure, increase turnover and make the federation more transparent, following the arrest of former president Angel Maria Villar on corruption charges. However, Rubiales' mandate was full of controversies, including the shocking decision to sack Spain manager Julen Lopetegui two days before their opening 2018 World Cup match and accusations of wrongdoing over a multimillion-euro deal to relocate the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia. There was also a mutiny within the Spain women's squad last September, when a large group of players demanded that long-standing coach Jorge Vilda be sacked. The RFEF backed Vilda and he cut 12 of the 15 players involved in the dispute from his World Cup squad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Luis Rubiales to resign after FIFA opens disciplinary proceedings against him over kissing episode - Reports

Spanish football federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales said on Friday he would not step down in the face of pressure from politicians, players, unions and FIFA for kissing football player Jenni Hermoso on the lips following Spain's World Cup victory.

Speaking at an RFEF emergency assembly on Friday, Rubiales complained that "false feminists" were "trying to kill me". He described the kiss as a peck that was "free, mutual and consensual".

"Is a consensual peck going to take me out of here? I won't resign. I will fight until the end," Rubiales said, drawing applause from the predominantly male audience.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://analytics.google.com/analytics/web/#/realtime/rt-content/a78400808w117386272p157269163/">Manchester City signs Belgium winger Jeremy Doku from Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais on five-year deal</a>

Condemnation has built throughout the week of the incident which occurred while the players were being handed their medals after they beat England 1-0 in the World Cup final on Sunday. As players filed past, Rubiales grabbed Hermoso by the head and planted a kiss on her mouth.

It culminated with FIFA opening disciplinary procedures against him on Thursday after Hermoso said in a statement on Wednesday that her union was working to defend her interests and that such acts should "never go unpunished".

Rubiales initially reacted defiantly to the backlash, describing his critics as "idiots". But he swiftly backtracked, posting an apology video recorded while flying back from Sydney.

As it became apparent that his apology had not gained traction — with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez describing it as "not enough" — regional leaders of the RFEF held a crisis meeting in Madrid on Thursday to discuss Rubiales's future and options for a potential successor, a source told Reuters. 
&nbsp;

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Spanish football federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales said on Friday he would not step down in the face of pressure from politicians, players, unions and FIFA for kissing football player Jenni Hermoso on the lips following Spain's World Cup victory.

Spanish football federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales said on Friday he would not step down in the face of pressure from politicians, players, unions and FIFA for kissing football player Jenni Hermoso on the lips following Spain's World Cup victory. Speaking at an RFEF emergency assembly on Friday, Rubiales complained that "false feminists" were "trying to kill me". He described the kiss as a peck that was "free, mutual and consensual". "Is a consensual peck going to take me out of here? I won't resign. I will fight until the end," Rubiales said, drawing applause from the predominantly male audience. ALSO READ: Manchester City signs Belgium winger Jeremy Doku from Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais on five-year deal Condemnation has built throughout the week of the incident which occurred while the players were being handed their medals after they beat England 1-0 in the World Cup final on Sunday. As players filed past, Rubiales grabbed Hermoso by the head and planted a kiss on her mouth. It culminated with FIFA opening disciplinary procedures against him on Thursday after Hermoso said in a statement on Wednesday that her union was working to defend her interests and that such acts should "never go unpunished". Rubiales initially reacted defiantly to the backlash, describing his critics as "idiots". But he swiftly backtracked, posting an apology video recorded while flying back from Sydney. As it became apparent that his apology had not gained traction — with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez describing it as "not enough" — regional leaders of the RFEF held a crisis meeting in Madrid on Thursday to discuss Rubiales's future and options for a potential successor, a source told Reuters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Spain football chief Luis Rubiales shuts rumours, not quitting over Women's World Cup kiss episode

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr's red card in Sunday's La Liga match at Valencia, in which he was also racially abused, has been rescinded, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said on Tuesday.

The Brazilian winger was sent off in stoppage time by referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea for striking an opponent following a scuffle with Valencia players in which Vinicius appeared to be grabbed around the neck.

Vinicius had earlier been racially abused by fans at the Mestalla Stadium, which led to the game being halted for 10 minutes as the player pointed out people who were abusing him in the stands.

"The RFEF Competition Committee considers that the referee's assessment was determined by the omission of the entirety of the play that took place, which affected the refereeing decision," the federation said.

"The fact that he (the referee) was deprived of a decisive part of the facts led him to adopt an arbitrary decision. And this is because it was impossible for him to properly assess what happened."

Seven people accused of different hate crimes against Vinicius were detained by the Spanish police earlier on Tuesday.

The RFEF also announced that it had fined the club 45,000 euros ($49,536) and that the south stand of the Valencia stadium will be partially closed for five matches.

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Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr's red card in Sunday's La Liga match at Valencia, in which he was also racially abused, has been rescinded, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said on Tuesday.

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr's red card in Sunday's La Liga match at Valencia, in which he was also racially abused, has been rescinded, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said on Tuesday. The Brazilian winger was sent off in stoppage time by referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea for striking an opponent following a scuffle with Valencia players in which Vinicius appeared to be grabbed around the neck. Vinicius had earlier been racially abused by fans at the Mestalla Stadium, which led to the game being halted for 10 minutes as the player pointed out people who were abusing him in the stands. "The RFEF Competition Committee considers that the referee's assessment was determined by the omission of the entirety of the play that took place, which affected the refereeing decision," the federation said. "The fact that he (the referee) was deprived of a decisive part of the facts led him to adopt an arbitrary decision. And this is because it was impossible for him to properly assess what happened." Seven people accused of different hate crimes against Vinicius were detained by the Spanish police earlier on Tuesday. The RFEF also announced that it had fined the club 45,000 euros ($49,536) and that the south stand of the Valencia stadium will be partially closed for five 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.

Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr has red card rescinded, Valencia stadium partially closed for 5 matches

At the age of 21, Francisco Garcia, the coach of the youth team at Malaga-based club Atletico Portada Alta died of the novel coronavirus.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/were-being-treated-like-guinea-pigs-wayne-rooney-slams-fa-for-delayed-decisions-during-coronavirus-286663" hreflang="en">'Were being treated like guinea pigs', Wayne Rooney slams FA for delayed decisions during coronavirus</a>

Garcia was suffering from an unknown pre-existing health condition, he suffered from a form of leukaemia (blood cancer) which made his battle against coronavirus difficult. The young Spaniard was informed about cancer after going into the hospital with the symptoms of coronavirus.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/five-members-of-valencia-fc-doing-well-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19-286632" hreflang="en">Five members of Valencia FC 'doing well' after testing positive for COVID-19</a>

According to a local Spanish newspaper, Garcia, who found it difficult to breathe, was initially told that he had coronavirus and pneumonia and was asked to take further medical assistance. Later on, he was told that he had leukaemia.

According to his doctors, Francisco would have survived if he had not been suffering from leukaemia.

The club released a statement paying tribute to its former coach: "We want to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and close friends of our coach Francisco Garcia who has left us, unfortunately. Now, what do we do without you, Francis? How are we going to continue conquering ... in the league? We don't know how, but we will surely do it for you. We will not forget you, rest in peace, phenomenon. Until forever."

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La Liga announced Spain's top two divisions will be suspended for at least two weeks after Spanish club Real Madrid's players were put in quarantine.

Garcia is possibly the youngest victim in Europe to die of the global pandemic, the youngest individual to die in Italy was a 38-year-old man who died last week, while China’s youngest victim was a 36-year-old male.

Spain has been the second-worst hit European nation with deaths over 300.

Spain is Europe's second most coronavirus-affected country after Italy and the latest jump in cases came after the government imposed a near-total nationwide lockdown, prohibiting people from leaving home except to go to work, get medical care or purchase food.

At the age of 21, Francisco Garcia, the coach of the youth team at Malaga-based club Atletico Portada Alta died of the novel coronavirus. Also read: 'Were being treated like guinea pigs', Wayne Rooney slams FA for delayed decisions during coronavirus Garcia was suffering from an unknown pre-existing health condition, he suffered from a form of leukaemia (blood cancer) which made his battle against coronavirus difficult.

At the age of 21, Francisco Garcia, the coach of the youth team at Malaga-based club Atletico Portada Alta died of the novel coronavirus. Also read: 'Were being treated like guinea pigs', Wayne Rooney slams FA for delayed decisions during coronavirus Garcia was suffering from an unknown pre-existing health condition, he suffered from a form of leukaemia (blood cancer) which made his battle against coronavirus difficult. The young Spaniard was informed about cancer after going into the hospital with the symptoms of coronavirus. Also read: Five members of Valencia FC 'doing well' after testing positive for COVID-19 According to a local Spanish newspaper, Garcia, who found it difficult to breathe, was initially told that he had coronavirus and pneumonia and was asked to take further medical assistance. Later on, he was told that he had leukaemia. According to his doctors, Francisco would have survived if he had not been suffering from leukaemia. The club released a statement paying tribute to its former coach: "We want to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and close friends of our coach Francisco Garcia who has left us, unfortunately. Now, what do we do without you, Francis? How are we going to continue conquering ... in the league? We don't know how, but we will surely do it for you. We will not forget you, rest in peace, phenomenon. Until forever." Desde el Atlético Portada Alta queremos manifestar nuestro más profundo pésame a la familia, amigos y allegados de... Posted by Atlético Portada Alta on Sunday, 15 March 2020 × La Liga announced Spain's top two divisions will be suspended for at least two weeks after Spanish club Real Madrid's players were put in quarantine. Garcia is possibly the youngest victim in Europe to die of the global pandemic, the youngest individual to die in Italy was a 38-year-old man who died last week, while China’s youngest victim was a 36-year-old male. Spain has been the second-worst hit European nation with deaths over 300. Spain is Europe's second most coronavirus-affected country after Italy and the latest jump in cases came after the government imposed a near-total nationwide lockdown, prohibiting people from leaving home except to go to work, get medical care or purchase food.

Coronavirus: Spanish youth team coach Francisco Garcia dies at 21

La Liga boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../barcelona-planning-for-post-messi-era-says- club-president-238819">Javier Tebas</a> is known for being ruthless in spreading the La Liga fever&nbsp;across the globe to earn revenue.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-sack-its-manager-valverde-setien-to-step-in-for-the-role-274138">Barcelona sack manager Valverde, Setien to step in for the role</a>

Chief Executive, Javier Tebas, previously was&nbsp;in talks with China and the United States earlier for holding league games outside Spain.&nbsp;

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spanish-super-cups-format-relocation-to-saudi-arabia-due-to-footballs-desire-for-money-says-valverde-273188">Spanish Super Cup's format, relocation to Saudi Arabia due to football's desire for money says Valverde</a>

But Javier Tebas is not willing to let La Liga&nbsp;teams play in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Ex-Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde had said upon arriving in Riyadh for the Spanish Supercup semifinals: “The bottom line is football has become a business and as a business, it looks for income,”. But for Tebas, "Money is not the only thing that matters,".

Saudi Arabia is hosting several sporting events such as title fights in professional boxing, WWE matches, motor car races, and tennis matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia, under Mohammad Bin Salman, has been trying to revamp its image in front of the world which received a setback after Khashoggi's murder.&nbsp;

Javier Tebas&nbsp;does not want any Spanish League's teams to play in Saudi Arabia since&nbsp;he thinks it is&nbsp;an attempt to burnish their reputation amid widespread accusation of humans rights violations. Saudi Arabia officials are suspected to have a hand in Jammal Khashoggi's murder. “We should not forget what happened,” Tebas said about&nbsp;the incident.

“The Saudi Arabian government has a policy whereby they improve the image of the government through sport, whitewashing their image, and we all have a responsibility there,” Tebas told reporters last week in London. Tebas unveiled a new British television channel that will focus on La Liga, which is the league overseas venture.&nbsp;

Spanish Federations defended their decision to hold the Spanish Super Cup earlier this month by saying that it was a "social tool"&nbsp;for change.

La Liga boss Javier Tebas is known for being ruthless in spreading the La Liga fever across the globe to earn revenue. Also read- Barcelona sack manager Valverde, Setien to step in for the role Chief Executive, Javier Tebas, previously was in talks with China and the United States earlier for holding league games outside Spain.

La Liga boss Javier Tebas is known for being ruthless in spreading the La Liga fever across the globe to earn revenue. Also read- Barcelona sack manager Valverde, Setien to step in for the role Chief Executive, Javier Tebas, previously was in talks with China and the United States earlier for holding league games outside Spain. Also read- Spanish Super Cup's format, relocation to Saudi Arabia due to football's desire for money says Valverde But Javier Tebas is not willing to let La Liga teams play in Saudi Arabia. Ex-Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde had said upon arriving in Riyadh for the Spanish Supercup semifinals: “The bottom line is football has become a business and as a business, it looks for income,”. But for Tebas, "Money is not the only thing that matters,". Saudi Arabia is hosting several sporting events such as title fights in professional boxing, WWE matches, motor car races, and tennis matches. Saudi Arabia, under Mohammad Bin Salman, has been trying to revamp its image in front of the world which received a setback after Khashoggi's murder. Javier Tebas does not want any Spanish League's teams to play in Saudi Arabia since he thinks it is an attempt to burnish their reputation amid widespread accusation of humans rights violations. Saudi Arabia officials are suspected to have a hand in Jammal Khashoggi's murder. “We should not forget what happened,” Tebas said about the incident. “The Saudi Arabian government has a policy whereby they improve the image of the government through sport, whitewashing their image, and we all have a responsibility there,” Tebas told reporters last week in London. Tebas unveiled a new British television channel that will focus on La Liga, which is the league overseas venture. Spanish Federations defended their decision to hold the Spanish Super Cup earlier this month by saying that it was a "social tool" for change.

'Money is not the only thing that matters': La Liga boss on not playing in Saudi Arabia

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../real-beat-atletico-on-penalties-to-win-11th- spanish-super-cup-273840">Real Madrid</a> midfielder Casemiro produced a performance worthy of a top striker by scoring twice in a 2-1 win for Zinedine Zidane's side over Sevilla&nbsp;on Saturday that took them top of&nbsp;La&nbsp;Liga&nbsp;for at least 24 hours.

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5⃣ Tackles! 
1⃣1⃣ Recoveries! 
 
Complete performance from <a href="https://twitter.com/Casemiro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Casemiro</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadridSevillaFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadridSevillaFC</a>. 💯💫 <a href="https://t.co/cAENtEs8FI">pic.twitter.com/cAENtEs8FI</a>
— LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLigaEN/status/1218715700459642880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Sevilla, however, were left fuming by the decision to rule out a first-half header from Luuk de Jong from a corner after a VAR review of a challenge by midfielder Nemanja Gudelj on Real defender Eder Militao.

Brazilian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../supercopa-quick-thinking-kroos-helps-real-to- final-273097">Casemiro</a>, initially deployed as a holding midfielder, broke the deadlock in the 57th minute with an ice-cool dinked finish after a back-heel from Serbian forward Luka Jovic released him in the area.

Sevilla&nbsp;levelled in the 64th with a curled effort from Dutch striker De Jong which was allowed to stand even though the ball had bounced off the elbow of forward Munir El Haddadi in the build-up.

Casemiro dragged Real back in front moments&nbsp;later with a towering header, taking his side first in the standings on 43 points after 20 games, three ahead of champions Barcelona who host Granada on Sunday.

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Real Madrid take the top spot in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaLigaSantander?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaLigaSantander</a> after their win at the Bernabeu. 🔝💜 <a href="https://t.co/WQT3RbXqWe">pic.twitter.com/WQT3RbXqWe</a>
— LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLigaEN/status/1218655726329114624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Sevilla's sporting director Monchi was furious with the decision to rule out the first goal for the tangle between Gudelj and Militao.

"It's the type of thing you see all the time, and I refuse to analyse the game after that because that moment was key and it's absurd to try and give any analysis after a goal like that was ruled out," he told reporters.

"If they had ruled out our other goal, I would have gone down to the pitch and ordered my players to leave."

Sevilla&nbsp;coach Julen Lopetegui added: "I cannot understand how they could rule out that goal, there is no reason at all."

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro produced a performance worthy of a top striker by scoring twice in a 2-1 win for Zinedine Zidane's side over Sevilla on Saturday that took them top of La Liga for at least 24 hours.

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro produced a performance worthy of a top striker by scoring twice in a 2-1 win for Zinedine Zidane's side over Sevilla on Saturday that took them top of La Liga for at least 24 hours. 5⃣ Tackles! 1⃣1⃣ Recoveries! Complete performance from @Casemiro in #RealMadridSevillaFC. 💯💫 pic.twitter.com/cAENtEs8FI — LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) January 19, 2020 × Sevilla, however, were left fuming by the decision to rule out a first-half header from Luuk de Jong from a corner after a VAR review of a challenge by midfielder Nemanja Gudelj on Real defender Eder Militao. Brazilian Casemiro, initially deployed as a holding midfielder, broke the deadlock in the 57th minute with an ice-cool dinked finish after a back-heel from Serbian forward Luka Jovic released him in the area. Sevilla levelled in the 64th with a curled effort from Dutch striker De Jong which was allowed to stand even though the ball had bounced off the elbow of forward Munir El Haddadi in the build-up. Casemiro dragged Real back in front moments later with a towering header, taking his side first in the standings on 43 points after 20 games, three ahead of champions Barcelona who host Granada on Sunday. Real Madrid take the top spot in #LaLigaSantander after their win at the Bernabeu. 🔝💜 pic.twitter.com/WQT3RbXqWe — LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) January 18, 2020 × Sevilla's sporting director Monchi was furious with the decision to rule out the first goal for the tangle between Gudelj and Militao. "It's the type of thing you see all the time, and I refuse to analyse the game after that because that moment was key and it's absurd to try and give any analysis after a goal like that was ruled out," he told reporters. "If they had ruled out our other goal, I would have gone down to the pitch and ordered my players to leave." Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui added: "I cannot understand how they could rule out that goal, there is no reason at all."

La Liga: Casemiro's double against Sevilla takes Real Madrid top of table

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../real-beat-atletico-on-penalties-to-win-11th- spanish-super-cup-273840">Atletico Madrid</a>'s hopes of getting back into the Spanish title race faded even further with a 2-0 defeat away by struggling Eibar in&nbsp;La&nbsp;Liga&nbsp;on Saturday.

The tiny Basque side, who have the smallest stadium in&nbsp;La&nbsp;Liga, took the lead in the 10th minute when Esteban Burgos stabbed home from close range at the far post after Atletico failed to properly defend a corner.

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Eibar beat Atleti for the first ever time in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaLigaSantander?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaLigaSantander</a>. 👏🎉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EibarAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EibarAtleti</a> 2-0 <a href="https://t.co/N58WqItKWP">pic.twitter.com/N58WqItKWP</a>
— LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLigaEN/status/1218652213683408913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Atletico, who lost&nbsp;last Sunday's Super Cup final to Real Madrid on penalties, were without captain Koke plus defenders Kieran Trippier and Jose Gimenez and never got a grip on the game on a rain-swept evening at Ipurua.

Edu Exposito's thumping shot from the edge of the area in the 90th minute sealed Eibar's first victory in 12 top-flight games against Atletico and took them seven points clear of the relegation zone.

Atletico, meanwhile, are third on 35 points, eight behind leaders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../now-barcelona-outshine-real-madrid-in-money- league-274282">Real Madrid</a> and five behind champions Barcelona who play at home to Granada on Sunday.

Atletico midfielder Saul Niguez, who was asked to play at left-back during the game, was scathing of his side's performance.

"We made a bad start yet again and it's been happening a lot recently. We really struggled to get going, we&nbsp;lacked hunger after being on a good run. This is a tough blow for us," he told reporters.

"Ipurua is a small stadium and they know exactly how to play to their strengths here, they beat us in all the second balls and knew how to deal with our attacks. We needed to play with more intelligence."

Atletico coach Diego Simeone added: "We started very badly, we barely played in the first half and didn't do what we needed to do.

"It's always been difficult for us here when we have won here the games have been very tight and today was similar, but they made the most of our mistakes and we couldn't take our chances."

Atletico Madrid's hopes of getting back into the Spanish title race faded even further with a 2-0 defeat away by struggling Eibar in La Liga on Saturday. The tiny Basque side, who have the smallest stadium in La Liga, took the lead in the 10th minute when Esteban Burgos stabbed home from close range at the far post after Atletico failed to properly defend a corner.

Atletico Madrid's hopes of getting back into the Spanish title race faded even further with a 2-0 defeat away by struggling Eibar in La Liga on Saturday. The tiny Basque side, who have the smallest stadium in La Liga, took the lead in the 10th minute when Esteban Burgos stabbed home from close range at the far post after Atletico failed to properly defend a corner. Eibar beat Atleti for the first ever time in #LaLigaSantander. 👏🎉#EibarAtleti 2-0 pic.twitter.com/N58WqItKWP — LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) January 18, 2020 × Atletico, who lost last Sunday's Super Cup final to Real Madrid on penalties, were without captain Koke plus defenders Kieran Trippier and Jose Gimenez and never got a grip on the game on a rain-swept evening at Ipurua. Edu Exposito's thumping shot from the edge of the area in the 90th minute sealed Eibar's first victory in 12 top-flight games against Atletico and took them seven points clear of the relegation zone. Atletico, meanwhile, are third on 35 points, eight behind leaders Real Madrid and five behind champions Barcelona who play at home to Granada on Sunday. Atletico midfielder Saul Niguez, who was asked to play at left-back during the game, was scathing of his side's performance. "We made a bad start yet again and it's been happening a lot recently. We really struggled to get going, we lacked hunger after being on a good run. This is a tough blow for us," he told reporters. "Ipurua is a small stadium and they know exactly how to play to their strengths here, they beat us in all the second balls and knew how to deal with our attacks. We needed to play with more intelligence." Atletico coach Diego Simeone added: "We started very badly, we barely played in the first half and didn't do what we needed to do. "It's always been difficult for us here when we have won here the games have been very tight and today was similar, but they made the most of our mistakes and we couldn't take our chances."

La Liga: SD Eibar beat Atletico Madrid for first time in league history

Thibaut Courtois proved the hero on Sunday as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-keep-pace-with-barca-as-bale-suffers-hostile-reception-264159">Real Madrid</a> beat city rivals <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spanish-super-cup-atletico-madrid-beat-fc-barcelona-exciting-game-play-ends-with-nail-biting-finish-273311">Atletico Madrid</a> in a penalty shoot-out in Saudi Arabia to win their 11th Spanish Super Cup.

Courtois and Jan Oblak were both imperious during a goalless final in Jeddah but the Belgian came up trumps, saving Thomas Partey's penalty after Saul Niguez had already hit the post.

Sergio Ramos tucked away the winning spot-kick to ensure Real Madrid clinched their first trophy of the season, with La Liga and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-16-draw-date-rules-possible-scenarios-for-english-teams-and-all-you-need-to-know-268455">Champions League</a> next in their sights.

"I went through their takers on the bench," said Courtois. "Saul's surprised me but Thomas' I read, and he's got a very hard shot."

Atletico might have won it in extra-time when Alvaro Morata went through one-on-one but Real's Federico Valverde took a red card in exchange for cynically fouling the striker from behind.

"It was something you shouldn't do and I apologised to Alvaro but it was the only option I had left," said Valverde.

"It was the most important moment of the match," added Atletico coach Diego Simeone.&nbsp;

"If he had gone through it was a goal but I told him that anyone would have done the same in his position."

Victory maintains Zinedine Zidane's spotless record as a coach in finals.&nbsp;

He has now led Madrid to success three times in the Champions League, and two each in the Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup and now <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spanish-super-cups-format-relocation-to-saudi-arabia-due-to-footballs-desire-for-money-says-valverde-273188">Spanish Super Cup</a>.

"I have won many things as a player and now as a coach," said Zidane. "But I congratulate the players. You can achieve anything if you work hard enough."

The focus before the tournament was more on the decision of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) to move this year's Super Cup a four-team competition rather than a straight final away from Spain and to Saudi Arabia, despite the country's long-criticised treatment of women and record on human rights.

Before the final, RFEF president Luis Rubiales said he was "very happy" with how the format had panned out. "We have to improve things because it is a country that has just started organising these sorts of events," he added.

For all the controversy off the pitch, on the pitch, the tournament has delivered.&nbsp;

Real Madrid played brilliantly to beat Valencia on Wednesday while a pulsating 3-2 win for Atletico on Thursday has put Barcelona coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ernesto-valverde-backs-griezmann-to-connect-with-messi-suarez-238867">Ernesto Valverde</a> on the brink of the sack.&nbsp;

And although the final lacked goals and quality finishing, there was drama until the end and joy on the faces of Real Madrid's players as Ramos hoisted another trophy under the fireworks.

Ramos had been guilty of sloppiness early on and Atletico should have capitalised.&nbsp;

The defender played a pass straight to Joao Felix on the edge of the area but Felix dragged wide and then Ferland Mendy gave the ball away, only for Morata to look for contact from Courtois and a penalty when there was neither.

Both teams had good chances to win it late on, with Luka Jovic's deflected cross finding Valverde free five yards out but the midfielder's header hit his own knee before drifting harmlessly over.

Then Atletico might have nicked it as Kieran Trippier clipped an excellent pass over the top for Morata, who opted for accuracy rather than power and Courtois was able to push away.&nbsp;

Into extra-time and, with 105 minutes on the clock, Courtois did well to flash out a leg and block Morata's acrobatic effort while Oblak twice denied Real, first a curling shot from Luka Modric and then a follow-up from Mariano Diaz.

Yet the most dramatic moment was still to come as Saul sent Morata clean through, with only Courtois to beat, before the chasing Valverde scythed him down from behind.&nbsp;

The red card was inevitable but Atletico only had a free-kick and, for four minutes, a one-man advantage. Trippier hit the free-kick into the wall and Real held on for penalties.&nbsp;

Carvajal found the corner but Saul struck the post, despite sending Courtois the wrong way. Rodrygo coolly put Real two ahead and Thomas missed, this time Courtois diving right and palming clear.&nbsp;

Modric swept into the corner before Trippier did the same. It was left to Ramos to hit the winning shot.&nbsp;

Thibaut Courtois proved the hero on Sunday as Real Madrid beat city rivals Atletico Madrid in a penalty shoot-out in Saudi Arabia to win their 11th Spanish Super Cup.

Thibaut Courtois proved the hero on Sunday as Real Madrid beat city rivals Atletico Madrid in a penalty shoot-out in Saudi Arabia to win their 11th Spanish Super Cup. Courtois and Jan Oblak were both imperious during a goalless final in Jeddah but the Belgian came up trumps, saving Thomas Partey's penalty after Saul Niguez had already hit the post. Sergio Ramos tucked away the winning spot-kick to ensure Real Madrid clinched their first trophy of the season, with La Liga and the Champions League next in their sights. "I went through their takers on the bench," said Courtois. "Saul's surprised me but Thomas' I read, and he's got a very hard shot." Atletico might have won it in extra-time when Alvaro Morata went through one-on-one but Real's Federico Valverde took a red card in exchange for cynically fouling the striker from behind. "It was something you shouldn't do and I apologised to Alvaro but it was the only option I had left," said Valverde. "It was the most important moment of the match," added Atletico coach Diego Simeone. "If he had gone through it was a goal but I told him that anyone would have done the same in his position." Victory maintains Zinedine Zidane's spotless record as a coach in finals. He has now led Madrid to success three times in the Champions League, and two each in the Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup and now Spanish Super Cup. "I have won many things as a player and now as a coach," said Zidane. "But I congratulate the players. You can achieve anything if you work hard enough." The focus before the tournament was more on the decision of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) to move this year's Super Cup a four-team competition rather than a straight final away from Spain and to Saudi Arabia, despite the country's long-criticised treatment of women and record on human rights. Before the final, RFEF president Luis Rubiales said he was "very happy" with how the format had panned out. "We have to improve things because it is a country that has just started organising these sorts of events," he added. For all the controversy off the pitch, on the pitch, the tournament has delivered. Real Madrid played brilliantly to beat Valencia on Wednesday while a pulsating 3-2 win for Atletico on Thursday has put Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde on the brink of the sack. And although the final lacked goals and quality finishing, there was drama until the end and joy on the faces of Real Madrid's players as Ramos hoisted another trophy under the fireworks. Ramos had been guilty of sloppiness early on and Atletico should have capitalised. The defender played a pass straight to Joao Felix on the edge of the area but Felix dragged wide and then Ferland Mendy gave the ball away, only for Morata to look for contact from Courtois and a penalty when there was neither. Both teams had good chances to win it late on, with Luka Jovic's deflected cross finding Valverde free five yards out but the midfielder's header hit his own knee before drifting harmlessly over. Then Atletico might have nicked it as Kieran Trippier clipped an excellent pass over the top for Morata, who opted for accuracy rather than power and Courtois was able to push away. Into extra-time and, with 105 minutes on the clock, Courtois did well to flash out a leg and block Morata's acrobatic effort while Oblak twice denied Real, first a curling shot from Luka Modric and then a follow-up from Mariano Diaz. Yet the most dramatic moment was still to come as Saul sent Morata clean through, with only Courtois to beat, before the chasing Valverde scythed him down from behind. The red card was inevitable but Atletico only had a free-kick and, for four minutes, a one-man advantage. Trippier hit the free-kick into the wall and Real held on for penalties. Carvajal found the corner but Saul struck the post, despite sending Courtois the wrong way. Rodrygo coolly put Real two ahead and Thomas missed, this time Courtois diving right and palming clear. Modric swept into the corner before Trippier did the same. It was left to Ramos to hit the winning shot.

Real Madrid defeat Atletico Madrid on penalties to lift 11th Spanish Super Cup

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../champions-league-last-16-fixtures-liverpool-to- clash-with-atletico-madrid-city-to-face-real-madrid-268559">Atletico Madrid</a>&nbsp;edged&nbsp;FC Barcelona in a nail-biting finish after Messi's Argentina teammate&nbsp;Angel Correa struck in the 86th minute&nbsp;in the semi-finals of the Spanish Super Cup held in King Abdullah Stadium in Saudi Arabia. The scorelines stood 3-2.

Despite being an exciting play since the start, teams went goal-less by the end of the first half.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spanish-super-cups-format-relocation-to-saudi-arabia-due-to-footballs-desire-for-money-says-valverde-273188">Spanish Super Cup's format, relocation to Saudi Arabia due to football's desire for money says Valverde</a>

But after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../we-certainly-know-the-city-better-now- barcelona-team-bus-lost-in-saudi-arabia-273092">FC Barcelona</a>'s slouchy start Atletico got the edge after Koke scored after just seconds after coming onto the pitch in the 47th minute. After being assisted by A. Correa His one-touch goal got the best of Neto and scored in the bottom left corner. &nbsp;Scoreline: Barca 0 - 1 Atletico

But this did not last long, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../lionel-messi-claims-sixth-ballon-dor-megan- rapinoe-wins-womens-award-265902">Lionel Messi</a> stepped in and scored after dribbling his way past to defenders in the 51st minute. &nbsp;Scoreline: Barca 1 - 1 Atletico.

Antoine Griezmann was playing against his former club, he was seen to be the most active player on the pitch. He helped Barcelona get the lead in 62nd minute after he heads the ball into the net. Scoreline: Barca 2 - 1 Atletico

In the 81st minute, Neto was fouled after his challenge against Vitolo, it was given as a penalty to Atletico Madrid and Alvaro Morata stood up to the occasion and scored. This helped Atletico level scores with Barca. &nbsp;Scoreline: Barca 2 - 2 Atletico

The final minutes of the game, before it could have been taken into extra time, Angel Correa,&nbsp; managed to get past Neto and get past the Goal line before it was cleared by Rakitic. This goal was scored in the 86th minute. &nbsp;

The match had a lot of disallowed goals, fights mishaps and fouls. Each side got four yellow cards each. The folks out there were treated with exciting gameplay.

Possession- FC Barcelona: 73%, Atletico Madrid: 27%

Shots (Shots on target)- FC Barcelona: 16 (9), Atletico Madrid 6 (6)

Atletico Madrid edged FC Barcelona in a nail-biting finish after Messi's Argentina teammate Angel Correa struck in the 86th minute in the semi-finals of the Spanish Super Cup held in King Abdullah Stadium in Saudi Arabia.

Atletico Madrid edged FC Barcelona in a nail-biting finish after Messi's Argentina teammate Angel Correa struck in the 86th minute in the semi-finals of the Spanish Super Cup held in King Abdullah Stadium in Saudi Arabia. The scorelines stood 3-2. Despite being an exciting play since the start, teams went goal-less by the end of the first half. Also Read:Spanish Super Cup's format, relocation to Saudi Arabia due to football's desire for money says Valverde But after FC Barcelona's slouchy start Atletico got the edge after Koke scored after just seconds after coming onto the pitch in the 47th minute. After being assisted by A. Correa His one-touch goal got the best of Neto and scored in the bottom left corner. Scoreline: Barca 0 - 1 Atletico But this did not last long, Lionel Messi stepped in and scored after dribbling his way past to defenders in the 51st minute. Scoreline: Barca 1 - 1 Atletico. Antoine Griezmann was playing against his former club, he was seen to be the most active player on the pitch. He helped Barcelona get the lead in 62nd minute after he heads the ball into the net. Scoreline: Barca 2 - 1 Atletico In the 81st minute, Neto was fouled after his challenge against Vitolo, it was given as a penalty to Atletico Madrid and Alvaro Morata stood up to the occasion and scored. This helped Atletico level scores with Barca. Scoreline: Barca 2 - 2 Atletico The final minutes of the game, before it could have been taken into extra time, Angel Correa, managed to get past Neto and get past the Goal line before it was cleared by Rakitic. This goal was scored in the 86th minute. The match had a lot of disallowed goals, fights mishaps and fouls. Each side got four yellow cards each. The folks out there were treated with exciting gameplay. Possession- FC Barcelona: 73%, Atletico Madrid: 27% Shots (Shots on target)- FC Barcelona: 16 (9), Atletico Madrid 6 (6)

Spanish Super Cup: Atletico Madrid's Correa late strike topples Messi's Barcelona

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-sevilla-miss-chance-to-catch-real-with-draw-against-bilbao-272094">Real Madrid</a> midfielder Toni Kroos scored directly from a corner as his side booked their place in the final of the revamped Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia by outclassing Valencia 3-1 on Wednesday.

Isco and Luka Modric scored either side of halftime to put <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zinedine-zidane-unfazed-by-jose-mourinho-talk-as-real-madrid-prepare-for-sevilla-test-251051">Zinedine Zidane</a>'s side further at ease before Dani Parejo converted a consolation penalty for last year's Copa del Rey winners in added time.

Real will meet the winners of Thursday's semi between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in Sunday's showpiece at the King Abdullah Sport City Stadium in Jeddah.

Germany international Kroos caught Valencia's Jaume Domenech out to open the scoring in the 15th minute, curling a cross towards goal while the keeper was still organising his defence and the ball flew over the line before Domenech could recover.

The soft manner of the goal appeared to hit Valencia hard after an even start to the game and Isco put Real further ahead by volleying home in the 39th minute after a sweeping move involving Federico&nbsp;Valverde&nbsp;and Dani Carvajal.

Modric killed off Valencia's faint hopes of a second-half revival, providing a classy finish with the outside of his boot in the 65th minute to completing another incisive Real counter-attack.

"We were in complete control throughout the game, we came out with the intention of getting hold of the ball, that's what we did and our plan worked perfectly," Real midfielder Casemiro told reporters.

The 62,000-capacity arena was around two-thirds full for the first game of the competition, which used to be a two-legged season curtain raiser between the Spanish league champions and the Cup winners but has been given a radical facelift.

Spanish soccer federation chief Luis Rubiales spearheaded the changes to the format, increasing the number of teams to four and signing a three-year deal to move it to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-appeals-for-calm-after-killing-of-iranian-general-qasem-soleimani-272563">Saudi Arabia</a> which media reports say is worth 40 million euros annually.

Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos scored directly from a corner as his side booked their place in the final of the revamped Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia by outclassing Valencia 3-1 on Wednesday.

Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos scored directly from a corner as his side booked their place in the final of the revamped Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia by outclassing Valencia 3-1 on Wednesday. Isco and Luka Modric scored either side of halftime to put Zinedine Zidane's side further at ease before Dani Parejo converted a consolation penalty for last year's Copa del Rey winners in added time. Real will meet the winners of Thursday's semi between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in Sunday's showpiece at the King Abdullah Sport City Stadium in Jeddah. Germany international Kroos caught Valencia's Jaume Domenech out to open the scoring in the 15th minute, curling a cross towards goal while the keeper was still organising his defence and the ball flew over the line before Domenech could recover. The soft manner of the goal appeared to hit Valencia hard after an even start to the game and Isco put Real further ahead by volleying home in the 39th minute after a sweeping move involving Federico Valverde and Dani Carvajal. Modric killed off Valencia's faint hopes of a second-half revival, providing a classy finish with the outside of his boot in the 65th minute to completing another incisive Real counter-attack. "We were in complete control throughout the game, we came out with the intention of getting hold of the ball, that's what we did and our plan worked perfectly," Real midfielder Casemiro told reporters. The 62,000-capacity arena was around two-thirds full for the first game of the competition, which used to be a two-legged season curtain raiser between the Spanish league champions and the Cup winners but has been given a radical facelift. Spanish soccer federation chief Luis Rubiales spearheaded the changes to the format, increasing the number of teams to four and signing a three-year deal to move it to Saudi Arabia which media reports say is worth 40 million euros annually.

Supercopa: Quick-thinking Kroos helps Real to final

Barcelona Manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../vidals-lawsuit-against-barca-wont-affect-status- in-team-says-valverde-272090">Ernesto Valverde</a> raised his concerns over the newly revised form of Spanish Super Cup.&nbsp;

"It's been changed and let's see, it will be judged once it has happened. It's interesting, with four good teams, but from a sporting point of view, I'm not sure," said Ernesto Valverde during the news conference held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Previously the Super Cup was held between the La Liga winners and the Copa del Ray winners, but last year the Spanish football federation&nbsp;agreed to double the number of teams (top two teams of La Liga and Copa del Ray) and take the competition outside Spain permanently as well as moving the playing months from August to January.

In 2018, the Super Cup was held as a one-off game in Tangier, Morocco. Barcelona had one this fixture and won the Super Cup

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-certainly-know-the-city-better-now-barcelona-team-bus-lost-in-saudi-arabia-273092">'We certainly know the city better now': Barcelona team bus lost in Saudi Arabia</a>

Ernesto Valverde went on to say "I know there has been a lot said about this competition but the bottom line is football has become a business and as a business, it looks for income."&nbsp;

“The reason why we are here and why we were in Morocco is because the authorities are looking for more sources of income,” added Valverde.&nbsp;

This move faced heavy criticism from the traditional fan bases for scheduling the matches out of Spain. Relocating the matches in Saudi also is criticised as Saudi Arabia has been poor in terms of Human Rights.&nbsp;

A controversial three-year contract worth 120 million euros was struck between the Spanish Football Federation&nbsp;and Saudi Arabia, the deal was only signed after Saudi Arabia agreed that women would be able to attend the games.

The clubs will also benefit financially. For participating alone, Real Madrid and Barcelona will earn around 6 million euros while Atletico and Valencia will make around 3 million euros.

Barcelona faces Atletico in the second semi-final&nbsp;today, with the winner facing Real Madrid in the final on Sunday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../supercopa-quick-thinking-kroos-helps-real-to- final-273097">Zinedine Zidane's side beat Valencia 3-1</a>.

Barcelona Manager Ernesto Valverde raised his concerns over the newly revised form of Spanish Super Cup. "It's been changed and let's see, it will be judged once it has happened.

Barcelona Manager Ernesto Valverde raised his concerns over the newly revised form of Spanish Super Cup. "It's been changed and let's see, it will be judged once it has happened. It's interesting, with four good teams, but from a sporting point of view, I'm not sure," said Ernesto Valverde during the news conference held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Previously the Super Cup was held between the La Liga winners and the Copa del Ray winners, but last year the Spanish football federation agreed to double the number of teams (top two teams of La Liga and Copa del Ray) and take the competition outside Spain permanently as well as moving the playing months from August to January. In 2018, the Super Cup was held as a one-off game in Tangier, Morocco. Barcelona had one this fixture and won the Super Cup Also read: 'We certainly know the city better now': Barcelona team bus lost in Saudi Arabia Ernesto Valverde went on to say "I know there has been a lot said about this competition but the bottom line is football has become a business and as a business, it looks for income." “The reason why we are here and why we were in Morocco is because the authorities are looking for more sources of income,” added Valverde. This move faced heavy criticism from the traditional fan bases for scheduling the matches out of Spain. Relocating the matches in Saudi also is criticised as Saudi Arabia has been poor in terms of Human Rights. A controversial three-year contract worth 120 million euros was struck between the Spanish Football Federation and Saudi Arabia, the deal was only signed after Saudi Arabia agreed that women would be able to attend the games. The clubs will also benefit financially. For participating alone, Real Madrid and Barcelona will earn around 6 million euros while Atletico and Valencia will make around 3 million euros. Barcelona faces Atletico in the second semi-final today, with the winner facing Real Madrid in the final on Sunday after Zinedine Zidane's side beat Valencia 3-1.

Spanish Super Cup's format, relocation to Saudi Arabia due to football's desire for money says Valverde

The Spanish Super Cup is taking place this season in the Kingdom of Supercup. Four teams have qualified to compete with one another in the tournament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/supercopa-quick-thinking-kroos-helps-real-to-final-273097">Real Madrid and Valencia</a> played their match last night at the&nbsp;King Abdullah Sports City Stadium just outside of Jeddah, where Real beat Valencia in an easy game ending 3-1. The match saw a spectacular goal from the corner by Toni Kroos early in the game.

Real Madrid&nbsp;will face the winners of Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid.

Barcelona were headed to Al-Ittihad Sports City, located within the city of Jeddah.

However, a goof-up by the team bus driver led to a phenomenal delay in the team's schedule. Instead of the Al-Ittihad sports complex in Jeddah, the driver drove on towards the King Abdullah Stadium. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../vidals-lawsuit-against-barca-wont-affect-status- in-team-says-valverde-272090">Barcelona</a> coach Ernesto Valverde was to host a presser at 5:45 PM local time, before the training session at Al-Ittihad. 
 
The goof-up meant that the press conference had to be delayed until after the training session was complete. 
 
"We certainly know the city a bit better now," said coach Valverde, when asked about the incident that caused the delay. 
 
&nbsp;

The Spanish Super Cup is taking place this season in the Kingdom of Supercup. Four teams have qualified to compete with one another in the tournament. Real Madrid and Valencia played their match last night at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium just outside of Jeddah, where Real beat Valencia in an easy game ending 3-1.

The Spanish Super Cup is taking place this season in the Kingdom of Supercup. Four teams have qualified to compete with one another in the tournament. Real Madrid and Valencia played their match last night at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium just outside of Jeddah, where Real beat Valencia in an easy game ending 3-1. The match saw a spectacular goal from the corner by Toni Kroos early in the game. Real Madrid will face the winners of Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid. Barcelona were headed to Al-Ittihad Sports City, located within the city of Jeddah. However, a goof-up by the team bus driver led to a phenomenal delay in the team's schedule. Instead of the Al-Ittihad sports complex in Jeddah, the driver drove on towards the King Abdullah Stadium. Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde was to host a presser at 5:45 PM local time, before the training session at Al-Ittihad. The goof-up meant that the press conference had to be delayed until after the training session was complete. "We certainly know the city a bit better now," said coach Valverde, when asked about the incident that caused the delay.

'We certainly know the city better now': Barcelona team bus lost in Saudi Arabia

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-unleashed-by-messi-barcelona-look-to-continue-winning-surge-259181">La Liga</a>'s hopes of staging Villarreal's game with Atletico Madrid on December 6 in Miami have ended after a local court declined a request to grant an injunction against the Spanish soccer federation (RFEF), who oppose playing the match abroad.

The league's organising body filed a complaint against the RFEF last year over the latter's refusal to authorise playing regular season matches outside Spain, claiming the RFEF did not have the authority to block the move.

That complaint will be heard next February.

"Madrid's Mercantile Court No. 12 today decided not to grant interim measures to stage an official La Liga match in Miami in a case about the pending authorisation from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF)," said a statement from La Liga.

"La Liga respects this decision, which does not prejudge the substance of the matter, which will be permanently settled in February 2020. Staging an official match abroad is part of a long-term La Liga strategy for international growth.

"We hope that from February La Liga will be able to organise an official match beyond Spanish borders."

This is the second time the league has been unsuccessful in its bid to play regular-season matches abroad, after Barcelona withdrew from plans to play a league game last January against Girona in Miami, citing a lack of support.

La Liga and the RFEF have been at loggerheads since the league signed a 15-year deal with US entertainment company Relevant in 2018, which included a commitment to play one regular-season match in North America per year.

The RFEF's president Luis Rubiales has refused to sanction La Liga's plans as he says world governing body FIFA does not approve of domestic competition games being played outside their usual territories.

The RFEF announced on Monday that it is to stage the next three editions of the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia, but Rubiales stated that no other Spanish soccer competitions could be played abroad.

La Liga's hopes of staging Villarreal's game with Atletico Madrid on December 6 in Miami have ended after a local court declined a request to grant an injunction against the Spanish soccer federation (RFEF), who oppose playing the match abroad.

La Liga's hopes of staging Villarreal's game with Atletico Madrid on December 6 in Miami have ended after a local court declined a request to grant an injunction against the Spanish soccer federation (RFEF), who oppose playing the match abroad. The league's organising body filed a complaint against the RFEF last year over the latter's refusal to authorise playing regular season matches outside Spain, claiming the RFEF did not have the authority to block the move. That complaint will be heard next February. "Madrid's Mercantile Court No. 12 today decided not to grant interim measures to stage an official La Liga match in Miami in a case about the pending authorisation from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF)," said a statement from La Liga. "La Liga respects this decision, which does not prejudge the substance of the matter, which will be permanently settled in February 2020. Staging an official match abroad is part of a long-term La Liga strategy for international growth. "We hope that from February La Liga will be able to organise an official match beyond Spanish borders." This is the second time the league has been unsuccessful in its bid to play regular-season matches abroad, after Barcelona withdrew from plans to play a league game last January against Girona in Miami, citing a lack of support. La Liga and the RFEF have been at loggerheads since the league signed a 15-year deal with US entertainment company Relevant in 2018, which included a commitment to play one regular-season match in North America per year. The RFEF's president Luis Rubiales has refused to sanction La Liga's plans as he says world governing body FIFA does not approve of domestic competition games being played outside their usual territories. The RFEF announced on Monday that it is to stage the next three editions of the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia, but Rubiales stated that no other Spanish soccer competitions could be played abroad.

Football: La Liga plans to take game to Miami halted by court decision

Barcelona's opening match of their La Liga title defence at Athletic Bilbao will take place next Friday after a judge ruled that matches could be played on that day but not on Mondays.

The decision from a court in Madrid means matches scheduled for Fridays in the opening three rounds, which were announced at the start of July, can be played, while matches planned for Mondays will have to be reorganised.

But La Liga has announced it will appeal the ruling as it aims for both Friday and Monday matches to be allowed this season.

"While the ruling has partially respected La Liga's requests with regards to interim measures, this organisation ... does not agree with the ruling and will proceed to exercise its right to appeal the decision," La Liga said in a statement.

Bilbao will host Barca at 9pm local time (1900 GMT) at San Mames stadium on August 16.

Confirmation of the date of the La Liga curtain-raiser comes just one week before the fixture kicks off, leaving supporters little time to arrange tickets and transport.

The decision also means existing matches due to take place on Mondays, including Eibar's trip to Mallorca and Real Betis' clash with Real Valladolid on August 19, will have to be moved.

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) claimed a victory over the country's top division, who backed the controversial Friday and Monday matches and argued removing those slots would risk losing lucrative television contracts.

"We are very satisfied and happy," said RFEF president Luis Rubiales.&nbsp; 
"It's a historic day. The RFEF's position and my commitment to Spanish football and fans have been fulfilled."

However, the RFEF had wanted the removal of both Monday and Friday matches, which have proven controversial in Spain, where they have attracted disappointing attendances and been reserved primarily for teams lower down in the league table.

Barcelona's opening match of their La Liga title defence at Athletic Bilbao will take place next Friday after a judge ruled that matches could be played on that day but not on Mondays.

Barcelona's opening match of their La Liga title defence at Athletic Bilbao will take place next Friday after a judge ruled that matches could be played on that day but not on Mondays. The decision from a court in Madrid means matches scheduled for Fridays in the opening three rounds, which were announced at the start of July, can be played, while matches planned for Mondays will have to be reorganised. But La Liga has announced it will appeal the ruling as it aims for both Friday and Monday matches to be allowed this season. "While the ruling has partially respected La Liga's requests with regards to interim measures, this organisation ... does not agree with the ruling and will proceed to exercise its right to appeal the decision," La Liga said in a statement. Bilbao will host Barca at 9pm local time (1900 GMT) at San Mames stadium on August 16. Confirmation of the date of the La Liga curtain-raiser comes just one week before the fixture kicks off, leaving supporters little time to arrange tickets and transport. The decision also means existing matches due to take place on Mondays, including Eibar's trip to Mallorca and Real Betis' clash with Real Valladolid on August 19, will have to be moved. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) claimed a victory over the country's top division, who backed the controversial Friday and Monday matches and argued removing those slots would risk losing lucrative television contracts. "We are very satisfied and happy," said RFEF president Luis Rubiales. "It's a historic day. The RFEF's position and my commitment to Spanish football and fans have been fulfilled." However, the RFEF had wanted the removal of both Monday and Friday matches, which have proven controversial in Spain, where they have attracted disappointing attendances and been reserved primarily for teams lower down in the league table.

Barcelona to kick off La Liga next Friday after court's fixture ruling

The time and date of La Liga's opening games of the season may not be decided until days before the first match kicks off, after a court postponed its decision on Wednesday.&nbsp;

La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) are locked in another bitter dispute, with the RFEF trying to ban fixtures taking place on Friday and Monday nights this term.&nbsp;

A commercial court in Madrid heard the case for over four hours on Wednesday but a decision may not be made until Friday or even Monday, four days before the league had been due to begin.&nbsp;

The division's curtain-raiser was due to take place between Athletic Bilbao and Barcelona at Bilbao's San Mames stadium on Friday, August 16, as announced by La Liga at the start of last month.&nbsp;

The opening round of games also included two matches on Monday, August 19 when Mallorca were down to host Eibar, and Real Betis expected to play at home to Real Valladolid.&nbsp;

But RFEF president Luis Rubiales has claimed fixtures can only be played this season on Fridays and Mondays with the approval of the RFEF.&nbsp;

La Liga argues it has the authority to set the dates and times of the calendar and that removing Friday and Monday matches would put existing television deals in jeopardy.&nbsp;

"Broadcasters would begin to negotiate 30 per cent downwards," warned Jaume Roures, the president of Mediapro, who was presented as a witness by La Liga. "It would have very significant economic consequences," Roures added.&nbsp;

The RFEF insisted the previous agreement with La Liga that allowed matches to be played on Friday and Monday expired in June.

The slots have proven controversial in Spain, where Friday and Monday games have attracted disappointing attendances and been reserved primarily for the league's lower teams.

Alaves supporters protested during a Monday match against Levante in February. Some fans boycotted kick-off while others carried a black coffin around the stadium, to symbolise the death of Spanish football.

The time and date of La Liga's opening games of the season may not be decided until days before the first match kicks off, after a court postponed its decision on Wednesday.

The time and date of La Liga's opening games of the season may not be decided until days before the first match kicks off, after a court postponed its decision on Wednesday. La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) are locked in another bitter dispute, with the RFEF trying to ban fixtures taking place on Friday and Monday nights this term. A commercial court in Madrid heard the case for over four hours on Wednesday but a decision may not be made until Friday or even Monday, four days before the league had been due to begin. The division's curtain-raiser was due to take place between Athletic Bilbao and Barcelona at Bilbao's San Mames stadium on Friday, August 16, as announced by La Liga at the start of last month. The opening round of games also included two matches on Monday, August 19 when Mallorca were down to host Eibar, and Real Betis expected to play at home to Real Valladolid. But RFEF president Luis Rubiales has claimed fixtures can only be played this season on Fridays and Mondays with the approval of the RFEF. La Liga argues it has the authority to set the dates and times of the calendar and that removing Friday and Monday matches would put existing television deals in jeopardy. "Broadcasters would begin to negotiate 30 per cent downwards," warned Jaume Roures, the president of Mediapro, who was presented as a witness by La Liga. "It would have very significant economic consequences," Roures added. The RFEF insisted the previous agreement with La Liga that allowed matches to be played on Friday and Monday expired in June. The slots have proven controversial in Spain, where Friday and Monday games have attracted disappointing attendances and been reserved primarily for the league's lower teams. Alaves supporters protested during a Monday match against Levante in February. Some fans boycotted kick-off while others carried a black coffin around the stadium, to symbolise the death of Spanish football.

La Liga start date still unknown as court delays decision

Spain coach Julen&nbsp;Lopetegui&nbsp;has signed a two-year contract extension in a show of faith from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) before a ball is kicked at next month's World Cup.

The RFEF announced on Tuesday the extension to&nbsp;Lopetegui's deal, which was due to expire after the tournament in Russia.

Since taking over from Vicente del Bosque in 2016,&nbsp;Lopetegui&nbsp;has gone 18 games unbeaten.

“We were hoping for this renewal, we know how football is and it came naturally and I was ready for it,” said&nbsp;Lopetegui, who named his 23-man World Cup squad on Monday.

"I want to thank the RFEF for their confidence in me and my team. We’re going into this with the utmost desire and responsibility ahead of the World Cup."

Spain, who won the World Cup in 2010, will face Portugal, Morocco and Iran in Group B in Russia.

Since taking over from Vicente del Bosque in 2016, Lopetegui has gone 18 games unbeaten

Spain coach Julen Lopetegui has signed a two-year contract extension in a show of faith from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) before a ball is kicked at next month's World Cup. The RFEF announced on Tuesday the extension to Lopetegui's deal, which was due to expire after the tournament in Russia. Since taking over from Vicente del Bosque in 2016, Lopetegui has gone 18 games unbeaten. “We were hoping for this renewal, we know how football is and it came naturally and I was ready for it,” said Lopetegui, who named his 23-man World Cup squad on Monday. "I want to thank the RFEF for their confidence in me and my team. We’re going into this with the utmost desire and responsibility ahead of the World Cup." Spain, who won the World Cup in 2010, will face Portugal, Morocco and Iran in Group B in Russia.

FIFA 2018: Spain's coach Julen Lopetegui signs new deal through to 2020

Spain&rsquo;s participation at the 2018 World Cup in Russia could be under threat after FIFA raised concerns about political interference within the Spanish football federation (RFEF).

Soccer&#39;s governing body has warned the RFEF that the Spanish government&#39;s involvement in the election for the football federation&#39;s new president could lead to them being expelled from next year&#39;s World Cup.

The RFEF is led by Juan Luis Larrea on an interim basis after former president Angel Maria Villar was forced to step down on corruption charges.

&quot;We can confirm that FIFA recently sent a letter to the RFEF showing its concern with the situation the federation is in and reminding it that... all member associations should manage their affairs independently,&quot; FIFA said in a statement on Friday.

&quot;All associations must be assured that there is no outside interference from third parties in its internal affairs. FIFA is in contact with the RFEF and in the next few weeks a delegation of FIFA and UEFA members will travel to Madrid to analyse the situation the RFEF is in.&quot;

Spanish newspaper El Pais reported that FIFA&#39;s concerns centre around the government&#39;s sports department pushing to hold new federation elections.

A statement from the RFEF said its president Larrea had discussed the situation with FIFA members at the World Cup draw on December&nbsp;1.

&quot;The RFEF passed on these (FIFA&#39;s) concerns to the minister for sport and is expecting to organise a meeting on the matter. The RFEF wants everything to return to normal, that has always been the main objective of the current board of directors.

&quot;We underline that we all want the national team to participate in the 2018 World Cup, especially after its brilliant qualifying campaign.&quot;

Spain captain and Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos, speaking ahead of the Club World Cup final in Abu Dhabi, added: &quot;I cannot believe that Spain could lose what we have worked so hard for on the pitch due to an institutional dispute, I struggle to believe that.&quot;

Spain&#39;s prime minister Mariano Rajoy said he was not concerned by the suggestion his country would be barred from competing in the World Cup.

Spain won the World Cup for the first time in 2010 and are one of the favourites to lift the trophy in Russia next year.

&quot;I cannot contemplate that scenario, I&#39;m absolutely convinced Spain will go to the World Cup and that we are going to win it,&quot; Rajoy told reporters in Brussels after a meeting of European Union member states.

&quot;The government&#39;s behaviour is exemplary and those in charge of the department for sport (CSD) have the total support of the prime minister.&quot;

In 2015 Indonesia were banned from competing in qualifiers for next year&#39;s World Cup after FIFA said the central government had taken over its federation&#39;s affairs.

Spain?s participation at the 2018 World Cup in Russia could be under threat after FIFA raised concerns about political interference within the Spanish football federation (RFEF)

Spain’s participation at the 2018 World Cup in Russia could be under threat after FIFA raised concerns about political interference within the Spanish football federation (RFEF). Soccer's governing body has warned the RFEF that the Spanish government's involvement in the election for the football federation's new president could lead to them being expelled from next year's World Cup. The RFEF is led by Juan Luis Larrea on an interim basis after former president Angel Maria Villar was forced to step down on corruption charges. "We can confirm that FIFA recently sent a letter to the RFEF showing its concern with the situation the federation is in and reminding it that... all member associations should manage their affairs independently," FIFA said in a statement on Friday. "All associations must be assured that there is no outside interference from third parties in its internal affairs. FIFA is in contact with the RFEF and in the next few weeks a delegation of FIFA and UEFA members will travel to Madrid to analyse the situation the RFEF is in." Spanish newspaper El Pais reported that FIFA's concerns centre around the government's sports department pushing to hold new federation elections. A statement from the RFEF said its president Larrea had discussed the situation with FIFA members at the World Cup draw on December 1. "The RFEF passed on these (FIFA's) concerns to the minister for sport and is expecting to organise a meeting on the matter. The RFEF wants everything to return to normal, that has always been the main objective of the current board of directors. "We underline that we all want the national team to participate in the 2018 World Cup, especially after its brilliant qualifying campaign." Spain captain and Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos, speaking ahead of the Club World Cup final in Abu Dhabi, added: "I cannot believe that Spain could lose what we have worked so hard for on the pitch due to an institutional dispute, I struggle to believe that." Spain's prime minister Mariano Rajoy said he was not concerned by the suggestion his country would be barred from competing in the World Cup. Spain won the World Cup for the first time in 2010 and are one of the favourites to lift the trophy in Russia next year. "I cannot contemplate that scenario, I'm absolutely convinced Spain will go to the World Cup and that we are going to win it," Rajoy told reporters in Brussels after a meeting of European Union member states. "The government's behaviour is exemplary and those in charge of the department for sport (CSD) have the total support of the prime minister." In 2015 Indonesia were banned from competing in qualifiers for next year's World Cup after FIFA said the central government had taken over its federation's affairs.

Soccer: Spain face possible World Cup ban as FIFA warns over government interference

Julen Lopetegui, who led Spain&#39;s youth teams to international success, was tasked today with breathing new life into La Roja after they crashed out of the 2014 World Cup and Euro 2016. 
 
The Spanish football federation announced the 49-year-old former goalkeeper would take over from Vicente del Bosque as manager of the national team, weeks after the latter resigned following Spain&#39;s defeat to Italy in the last 16 of Euro 2016. 
 
Del Bosque had led Spain to the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012 titles, after taking over from Euro 2008-winning coach Luis Aragones. 
 
But the second half of his stint was disappointing, with the 2-0 defeat to Italy following a shock group-stage exit from the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and he was criticised for not having given the newer generation a chance. 
 
Thanks to his success with Spain&#39;s under-19s and under-21s, Lopetegui has long been a favourite of Spanish FA head Angel Maria Villar, who made the appointment before concentrating on his bid to replace Michel Platini as UEFA chief. 
 
He is reported to have overcome stiff competition from veteran former Sevilla and Athletic Bilbao coach Joaquin Caparros for the post. 
 
Today Vicente del Bosque wished Lopetegui well. 
 
&quot;He&#39;s a man with experience, well trained and with huge enthusiasm and lots of energy,&quot; he told Radio Marca. 
 
&quot;He will know how to manage (the team) like he has done brilliantly in the younger age categories.&quot; 
 
Lopetegui has over his career achieved varying degrees of success on the pitch and as a coach. 
 
His spells as a goalkeeper at Real Madrid and Barcelona saw him spend much of his time on the bench. But he was highly successful at smaller club Logrones from 1991 to 1994 at a time when the team was in the country&#39;s first division. 
 
Retiring from professional football in 2002, he became coach of Madrid-based Rayo Vallecano, a team in Spain&#39;s second tier, where he had last played before retiring. 
 
He then moved on to Real Madrid where he coached the club&#39;s Castilla reserve team, the same post that Zinedine Zidane held before moving on to managing the first team. 
 
But Lopetegui, who hails from the northern Basque country, really made his name when he coached the national team&#39;s under-19s, under-20s and under-21s from 2010 to 2014. 
 
He led his teams to victory in the 2012 European Under-19 Championship and a year later in the Under-21 European Championship which featured David de Gea, Thiago Alcantara and Alvaro Morata, all of whom were at Euro 2016. 
 
Fresh from that success, he took over Porto in 2014 and led them to the quarter-finals of the 2014/15 Champions League. 
 
A famous 3-1 win over Pep Guardiola&#39;s Bayern Munich in the first leg of the quarter-final was quickly forgotten as Bayern bounced back to thrash Lopetegui&#39;s men 6-1 in the second leg, to progress to the last four. 
 
Porto also finished runners-up to rivals Benfica in the Portuguese league in his first season in charge. 
 
Lopetegui signed Iker Casillas from Real Madrid in July 2015, but that did little to help and he was sacked in January with Porto languishing in third behind Benfica and Sporting Lisbon, having been knocked out at the group stages of the Champions League. 
 
Still, influential sports daily Marca said his intimate knowledge of the workings of the national team was &quot;ideal&quot; as Spain seek to re-emerge from a dark patch after failures in Brazil and France. 
 
&quot;Lopetegui has a nice challenge ahead,&quot; it wrote. 
 
&quot;His adventure starts in September with the friendly between La Roja and Belgium.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

Lopetegui is reported to have overcome stiff competition from veteran former Sevilla and Athletic Bilbao coach Joaquin Caparros for the post

Julen Lopetegui, who led Spain's youth teams to international success, was tasked today with breathing new life into La Roja after they crashed out of the 2014 World Cup and Euro 2016. The Spanish football federation announced the 49-year-old former goalkeeper would take over from Vicente del Bosque as manager of the national team, weeks after the latter resigned following Spain's defeat to Italy in the last 16 of Euro 2016. Del Bosque had led Spain to the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012 titles, after taking over from Euro 2008-winning coach Luis Aragones. But the second half of his stint was disappointing, with the 2-0 defeat to Italy following a shock group-stage exit from the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and he was criticised for not having given the newer generation a chance. Thanks to his success with Spain's under-19s and under-21s, Lopetegui has long been a favourite of Spanish FA head Angel Maria Villar, who made the appointment before concentrating on his bid to replace Michel Platini as UEFA chief. He is reported to have overcome stiff competition from veteran former Sevilla and Athletic Bilbao coach Joaquin Caparros for the post. Today Vicente del Bosque wished Lopetegui well. "He's a man with experience, well trained and with huge enthusiasm and lots of energy," he told Radio Marca. "He will know how to manage (the team) like he has done brilliantly in the younger age categories." Lopetegui has over his career achieved varying degrees of success on the pitch and as a coach. His spells as a goalkeeper at Real Madrid and Barcelona saw him spend much of his time on the bench. But he was highly successful at smaller club Logrones from 1991 to 1994 at a time when the team was in the country's first division. Retiring from professional football in 2002, he became coach of Madrid-based Rayo Vallecano, a team in Spain's second tier, where he had last played before retiring. He then moved on to Real Madrid where he coached the club's Castilla reserve team, the same post that Zinedine Zidane held before moving on to managing the first team. But Lopetegui, who hails from the northern Basque country, really made his name when he coached the national team's under-19s, under-20s and under-21s from 2010 to 2014. He led his teams to victory in the 2012 European Under-19 Championship and a year later in the Under-21 European Championship which featured David de Gea, Thiago Alcantara and Alvaro Morata, all of whom were at Euro 2016. Fresh from that success, he took over Porto in 2014 and led them to the quarter-finals of the 2014/15 Champions League. A famous 3-1 win over Pep Guardiola's Bayern Munich in the first leg of the quarter-final was quickly forgotten as Bayern bounced back to thrash Lopetegui's men 6-1 in the second leg, to progress to the last four. Porto also finished runners-up to rivals Benfica in the Portuguese league in his first season in charge. Lopetegui signed Iker Casillas from Real Madrid in July 2015, but that did little to help and he was sacked in January with Porto languishing in third behind Benfica and Sporting Lisbon, having been knocked out at the group stages of the Champions League. Still, influential sports daily Marca said his intimate knowledge of the workings of the national team was "ideal" as Spain seek to re-emerge from a dark patch after failures in Brazil and France. "Lopetegui has a nice challenge ahead," it wrote. "His adventure starts in September with the friendly between La Roja and Belgium." (AFP)

Julen Lopetegui named as Spain's new coach

Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Angel Maria Villar said he plans to seek re-election to his country&#39;s governing body later this year if he fails in a bid to become UEFA president. 
 
Villar has been acting head of the European soccer federation since October 2015, when Michel Platini was suspended from all football-related activities for six years, later reduced to four, for ethics violations. 
 
Last week the Spaniard announced his intention to stand in the UEFA elections on September 14 to replace Platini. Slovenian Aleksandar Ceferin and Dutchman Michael van Praag will also contest the presidency. 
 
&quot;I&#39;m standing for UEFA president because the majority of the European federations have asked me to,&quot; Villar, who has been president of the RFEF since 1988, said today following a meeting with referees.&nbsp;&quot;If I don&#39;t win or I pull out, which I don&#39;t believe will happen, I will stand for re-election of the RFEF.&quot; 
 
RFEF general secretary Jorge Perez is among other candidates for the Spanish vote, which is expected to take place after the UEFA election. 
 
Villar, also a FIFA vice-president, was fined 25,000 Swiss francs by FIFA&#39;s Ethics Committee in 2015 for failing to cooperate with their investigation into the contests to host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. 
 
Villar said he was confident of winning the UEFA election. &quot;I have taken this step (to run) because I have sufficient support to win,&quot; he said. 
 
(Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Slovenian Aleksandar Ceferin and Dutchman Michael van Praag to also contest UEFA presidency

Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Angel Maria Villar said he plans to seek re-election to his country's governing body later this year if he fails in a bid to become UEFA president. Villar has been acting head of the European soccer federation since October 2015, when Michel Platini was suspended from all football-related activities for six years, later reduced to four, for ethics violations. Last week the Spaniard announced his intention to stand in the UEFA elections on September 14 to replace Platini. Slovenian Aleksandar Ceferin and Dutchman Michael van Praag will also contest the presidency. "I'm standing for UEFA president because the majority of the European federations have asked me to," Villar, who has been president of the RFEF since 1988, said today following a meeting with referees. "If I don't win or I pull out, which I don't believe will happen, I will stand for re-election of the RFEF." RFEF general secretary Jorge Perez is among other candidates for the Spanish vote, which is expected to take place after the UEFA election. Villar, also a FIFA vice-president, was fined 25,000 Swiss francs by FIFA's Ethics Committee in 2015 for failing to cooperate with their investigation into the contests to host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Villar said he was confident of winning the UEFA election. "I have taken this step (to run) because I have sufficient support to win," he said. (Reuters)

Spanish football federation chief Villar to seek re-election if UEFA bid fails

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