Category: FOOTBALL

Barcelona secured their record 32nd Copa del Rey title with a thrilling 3-2 extra-time victory against Real Madrid. Jules Koundé scored the decisive goal in the 116th minute after Pedri, Ferran Torres, and Madrid’s Mbappé and Tchouaméni scored in regulation time. The win keeps Barcelona’s treble hopes alive as they lead La Liga and prepare for their Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan.READ FULL

Pep Guardiola admits Manchester City lost their “spirit” this season but vows they’ll return stronger next year. Currently third in the Premier League, City face Nottingham Forest in Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final, their last chance for silverware. Guardiola highlighted his team’s passionate celebration after Bernardo Silva’s goal against Aston Villa as evidence they’re rediscovering their hunger, saying: “Next season will be better. We will be back again.”READ FULL

Real Madrid kept pace with Barcelona in La Liga’s title race after Fede Valverde’s stunning 93rd-minute goal secured a 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao. The Uruguayan’s powerful strike maintained Madrid’s four-point gap behind leaders Barca. Following their Champions League elimination by Arsenal, this crucial victory boosts morale ahead of next weekend’s Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.READ FULL

World No.3 Carlos Alcaraz admits pressure to claim the top ranking during Jannik Sinner’s doping ban has “killed” him mentally. Despite opportunities while Sinner serves his three-month suspension, Alcaraz has struggled with inconsistent results, sitting over 3,500 points behind Sinner and 1,000 points below Alexander Zverev. Heading into Monte Carlo and the clay season, Alcaraz has abandoned ranking ambitions to focus solely on his game.READ FULL

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti urged his team to regroup following Saturday’s shock 2-1 home loss to Valencia. The defeat leaves Madrid four points behind Barcelona in LaLiga with Arsenal awaiting in Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final. Despite lamenting missed chances and defensive concerns, Ancelotti believes the upcoming matches will feature “different game scripts.” He remains uncertain about his goalkeeper selection, with both Courtois and Lunin recovering from injuries.READ FULL

RB Leipzig have fired coach Marco Rose following a 1-0 loss to Borussia Moenchengladbach, marking their sixth consecutive away match without a win. Despite leading the team to a German Cup triumph last season, sporting director Marcel Schaefer cited poor results as the reason for seeking “new impetus.” The club, currently sixth in the Bundesliga, faces Stuttgart in a German Cup semi-final on Wednesday. A successor will be announced soon.READ FULL

South Korea’s sports ministry will collaborate with the domestic soccer league to improve pitch conditions after national team captain Son Heung-min blamed poor field quality for subpar World Cup qualifier performances. The ministry plans to inspect 27 stadiums and develop a sustainable management system. South Korea remains on track to qualify for their 11th consecutive World Cup.READ FULL

Italy-based Bangladeshi footballer Fahamedul Islam has left the Bangladesh football team and returned to Italy after falling short of head coach Javier Cabrera’s expectations. The 18-year-old, who plays for fourth division club Olbia Calcio 1905, was included in Bangladesh’s preliminary squad for the Asian Cup Qualifier against India on March 25. Team manager Amer Khan confirmed Fahamedul’s departure, hinting he may be called up to the youth team in the future.READ FULL

Despite dominating Inter Milan, Arsenal suffered a 1-0 Champions League defeat on Wednesday. Manager Mikel Arteta praised his team’s performance, saying they played one of their best games this season. Arsenal are fifth in the Premier League and will face Chelsea on Sunday, with Arteta confident they can win if they replicate their display against Inter.READ FULL

Chinese tech company Lenovo has become FIFA’s official technology partner, signing a sponsorship deal covering the 2026 Men’s World Cup and 2027 Women’s World Cup. The partnership aims to enhance fan experiences through AI and other technologies, improving stadium experiences, global broadcasts, and analytics. FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the role of data and technology in creating unforgettable fan experiences. Lenovo joins top-tier sponsors like Coca-Cola and Adidas. The deal doesn’t include the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States.READ FULL

Lionel Messi led Argentina to a 6-0 victory over Bolivia in World Cup qualifiers, scoring a hat-trick and assisting two goals. Messi opened the scoring, then set up Martinez and Alvarez before halftime. Almada added a fourth in the second half, with Messi netting twice more late on. This dominant performance keeps Argentina at the top of the South American qualifiers with 22 points, ahead of Colombia. The match was part of the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup to be hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada.READ FULL

Romelu Lukaku led Napoli to a 3-1 victory over Como in Serie A, scoring once and assisting twice. The win keeps Napoli at the top of the league. Scott McTominay scored his first Serie A goal, while David Neres added another. Como’s Gabriel Strefezza equalized before halftime, but Napoli secured the win in the second half. Lukaku and McTominay have both made strong starts at Napoli under Antonio Conte’s management.READ FULL

Atletico Madrid secured a last-minute 1-0 victory against Celta Vigo in La Liga, with Julian Alvarez scoring the winner in the 90th minute. The match was largely dominated by Celta, but Atletico’s goalkeeper Jan Oblak made crucial saves. In other matches, Villarreal beat Espanyol 2-1 with Ayoze Perez scoring twice, while Real Betis drew 1-1 with Las Palmas. Barcelona leads the league after a 1-0 win over Getafe, followed by Real Madrid in second place. Atletico Madrid is now in third position.READ FULL

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expects several players to return from injury for their Champions League opener against VfB Stuttgart. Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Eder Militao are likely to be available. Ancelotti expressed excitement about starting their title defense with Kylian Mbappe, calling him “the best player in the world.” He acknowledged the demanding schedule but emphasized the special nature of the Champions League for both himself and the club. Real Madrid aims to reach the final again after winning last season.READ FULL

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson criticized the increasing number of matches in football seasons, highlighting player concerns as the extended Champions League format begins. He emphasized that players’ opinions on additional games are often ignored, despite understanding the media and organizational pressures for more matches. Alisson stressed the impact on player performance and health, calling for all stakeholders to consider players’ input when creating schedules. Liverpool coach Arne Slot acknowledged the appeal of more fixtures but questioned the long-term effects on players.READ FULL

Real Madrid secured a 2-0 victory against Real Sociedad in La Liga, with Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe scoring penalties in the second half. The win puts Madrid within a point of league leaders Barcelona. Real Sociedad hit the woodwork three times but couldn’t convert their chances. Madrid played without injured midfielders Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni. In other matches, Sevilla earned their first win of the season against Getafe, while Villarreal moved to third place after defeating Mallorca.READ FULL

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has introduced a new qualifying format for the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup, allowing Bangladesh’s women’s team to compete directly in the qualifiers. The new system includes a three-round preliminary competition starting in 2027. This standalone competition will provide lower-ranked teams more opportunities to play against higher-ranked sides. Additionally, the AFC has launched a new two-phase qualifying competition for the 2029 Women’s Asian Cup, which will give Bangladesh more competitive matches in the coming years.READ FULL

The trial of eight health workers accused of “homicide by negligence” in Diego Maradona’s death has been postponed again, now set for March 11, 2025. Originally scheduled for June 2024, then October 2024, the trial was delayed at the request of three defendants. Maradona, Argentina’s 1986 World Cup-winning captain, died in November 2020 at 60 from heart failure after brain surgery. The accused, including Maradona’s neurosurgeon, psychologist, psychiatrist, and nurses, face potential prison sentences of 8 to 25 years if convicted.READ FULL

The start of Bangladesh’s 2024-25 football season has been delayed due to recent political changes. Originally scheduled for September 13, it’s now tentatively set for October 4. However, most clubs are requesting a six-week preparation period, which could push the start date beyond the October 26 Bangladesh Football Federation elections. Clubs cite various concerns, including team preparation, foreign player visas, and venue readiness. A meeting between the BFF Professional League Management Committee and club representatives is scheduled to discuss these issues and determine the season’s start date.READ FULL

In a surprising UEFA Nations League match, Italy defeated France 3-1 in Paris despite conceding the fastest-ever goal by a French player after just 13 seconds. Bradley Barcola opened the scoring for France, but Italy fought back with goals from Federico Dimarco, Davide Frattesi, and Giacomo Raspadori. The victory puts Italy level with Belgium at the top of Group A2. France, including captain Kylian Mbappe, struggled to make an impact, leaving coach Didier Deschamps disappointed with the team’s performance.READ FULL

Cristiano Ronaldo, at 39, continues to defy expectations in his football career. He recently scored his 900th career goal during Portugal’s UEFA Nations League match against Croatia. This milestone comes nearly 22 years after his first professional goal for Sporting Lisbon. Despite his age, Ronaldo shows no signs of slowing down and has expressed his ambition to reach 1,000 career goals. Given his track record of surpassing limits, many believe he could achieve this remarkable feat.READ FULL

Argentina defeated Chile 3-0 in a 2026 World Cup qualifier match, with goals from Mac Allister, Alvarez, and Dybala. The win strengthens Argentina’s lead in South America’s qualifying tournament. Despite missing Messi and Di Maria, Argentina dominated the game. In another qualifier, Bolivia thrashed Venezuela 4-0 in a high-altitude match in El Alto. The results leave Argentina comfortably at the top of the standings, while Venezuela remains in fourth place despite the loss.READ FULL

In UEFA Nations League action, Euro 2024 champions Spain were held to a goalless draw by Serbia. Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 900th career goal as Portugal beat Croatia 2-1. Denmark defeated Switzerland 2-0, while Poland edged Scotland 3-2 with a late penalty. San Marino made history by securing their first-ever competitive win, beating Liechtenstein 1-0. Other results included wins for Slovakia, Northern Ireland, and Sweden. The next round of matches features France hosting Italy in Paris on Friday.READ FULL

Cristiano Ronaldo achieved a remarkable milestone by scoring his 900th career goal in Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Croatia in the UEFA Nations League. The 39-year-old striker netted in the 34th minute, adding to his impressive tally of 131 goals for Portugal. Diogo Dalot scored Portugal’s opener and later conceded an own goal. Half of Ronaldo’s 900 goals were scored for Real Madrid, with the rest spread across his time at Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, and current club Al-Nassr. Portugal’s next match is against Scotland in Lisbon on Sunday.READ FULL

In the third round of Asian World Cup qualifiers, Japan thrashed China 7-0 with Premier League stars Kaoru Mitoma and Wataru Endo scoring. Australia suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Bahrain due to a late own goal. Palestine earned a surprising 0-0 draw against South Korea. Uzbekistan narrowly beat North Korea 1-0. The top two teams from each of the three Asian groups will qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The qualifying round continues until June, with the next matches scheduled for Tuesday.READ FULL

Former Dutch footballer Quincy Promes has joined United FC in Dubai, UAE, while fighting extradition to the Netherlands. Promes was sentenced in absentia to six years in prison for drug trafficking and 18 months for assault. He was arrested in Dubai in March at the request of Dutch authorities but released in May with travel restrictions. Promes denies all charges and has appealed both cases. His contract with Spartak Moscow was terminated in June. The 32-year-old striker has 50 caps for the Netherlands.READ FULL

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez addressed criticism following Euro 2024, acknowledging high expectations due to their talented squad. He emphasized positives from their quarter-final loss to France, stating the team grew from the experience. Martinez expects a more aggressive, attack-focused approach in upcoming Nations League matches against Croatia and Scotland. He praised his players’ skills and attitude, expressing confidence in their ability to handle pressure and bring joy to fans with their ambitious play.READ FULL

The 2024 Ballon d’Or nominees have been announced, with Lionel Messi notably absent from the list. Spanish Euro 2024 winners and Real Madrid Champions League victors dominate the nominations. Vinicius Junior is among the favorites, with six Madrid players nominated. Erling Haaland and Harry Kane are also contenders. For the women’s award, Aitana Bonmati hopes to retain her title. The ceremony will take place in Paris on October 28. Xabi Alonso, Carlo Ancelotti, and Luis de la Fuente are nominated for best coach.READ FULL

Luis Suarez, Uruguay’s top scorer with 69 goals in 142 appearances, has announced his retirement from international football. The 37-year-old striker will play his final match for Uruguay against Paraguay on Friday. Suarez, known for his skill and controversial moments, considers winning the 2011 Copa America his career highlight. Despite recent controversies, he helped Uruguay qualify for multiple World Cups and played in this year’s Copa America.READ FULL

Kylian Mbappe scored his first La Liga goals to give Real Madrid a 2-0 win over Real Betis, sending them second in the table. Mbappe’s brace, including a penalty, came after criticism for his slow start to the season. The victory was a welcome boost for Real Madrid, who have struggled to gel this season. Barcelona remain top of the table after a 7-0 thrashing of Real Valladolid. READ FULL

Real Madrid salvaged a 1-1 draw against Las Palmas in La Liga, avoiding their first league loss of the season. Vinicius Junior equalized with a second-half penalty after Alberto Moleiro’s early goal for Las Palmas. The draw leaves Real Madrid fourth in the standings, four points behind Barcelona. In another match, Girona dominated Osasuna with a 4-0 victory. Bryan Gil, Viktor Tsygankov, Abel Ruiz, and Cristhian Stuani scored for Girona, while Osasuna failed to register a shot on target.READ FULL

Bangladesh will face tournament favorites India in the SAFF U-20 Championship semifinal today in Nepal. The winners will play Nepal in the final on August 28. Bangladesh, aiming to bounce back from their 2-1 loss to Nepal, face a challenging task against India. Coach Maruful Haque held mental-recovery and tactical sessions to boost the team’s morale. Captain Srabon emphasized following the coach’s tactics for a positive result. Bangladesh’s historical record against India in this tournament stands at two wins, three losses, and two draws.

Barcelona secured a 2-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao in La Liga, with Robert Lewandowski scoring the winning goal in the 75th minute. Lamine Yamal opened the scoring for Barcelona, while Oihan Sancet equalized from the penalty spot. Despite hitting the woodwork twice, Lewandowski persevered to net the winner. The win marks Barcelona’s second consecutive league victory under new coach Hansi Flick. The match showcased Barcelona’s resilience and attacking prowess, as they aim to challenge for the La Liga title this season. AFP

Defending champions Bayer Leverkusen secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Borussia Moenchengladbach in the Bundesliga opener. Granit Xhaka and Florian Wirtz gave Leverkusen a 2-0 lead, but Gladbach equalized through Nico Elvedi and Tim Kleindienst. In the 11th minute of stoppage time, Wirtz scored the winner from a rebound after his penalty was saved. Xhaka praised the team’s “pure mentality” while coach Xabi Alonso was speechless about the late victory. AFP

Manchester City’s Phil Foden won the prestigious PFA Player of the Year award, reflecting his crucial role in the club’s fourth consecutive Premier League title. Chelsea’s Cole Palmer was named the PFA Young Player of the Year, marking the first time since 2009-10 that both senior and young player trophies were won by English players. City’s Khadija Shaw was also voted the Women’s Player of the Year. AFP

Li Yuyi, former vice president of the Chinese Football Association (CFA), has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for corruption. He was found guilty of accepting bribes worth over $1.7 million between 2004 and 2021. This case is part of a wider crackdown on corruption in Chinese sports, particularly football. Several other high-ranking officials have also been investigated or sentenced, including former CFA head Chen Xuyuan and ex-national team coach Li Tie. The crackdown aims to clean up Chinese football amid ambitious goals for the sport. AFP