Category: FOOTBALL

France defeated Portugal 5-3 on penalties in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals after a goalless 120 minutes. Theo Hernandez scored the winning penalty, while Joao Felix missed for Portugal. This likely marks Cristiano Ronaldo’s last Euro appearance. France will face Spain in the semifinals. The match was tense with few clear chances. Kylian Mbappe was substituted before the shootout. This victory avenges France’s 2016 Euro final loss to Portugal. AFP

Turkey’s defender Merih Demiral has been banned for two Euro 2024 matches by UEFA for making an alleged ultra-nationalist salute during goal celebrations against Austria. The gesture is associated with the Turkish right-wing extremist group Grey Wolves. Demiral will miss the quarter-final against the Netherlands and a potential semi-final. Turkey’s sports minister condemned the ban as unfair and politically motivated. The incident has sparked diplomatic tensions between Turkey and Germany. AFP

Argentina advanced to the Copa America semi-finals after defeating Ecuador in a penalty shootout. The match ended 1-1 in regular time, with Lisandro Martinez scoring for Argentina and Kevin Rodriguez equalizing for Ecuador. In the shootout, Argentina’s goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez saved two penalties, leading to a 4-2 victory despite Lionel Messi missing his attempt. Argentina will face the winner of Venezuela vs Canada in the semi-finals. Source AFP

Lionel Messi is expected to start for Argentina in their Copa America quarterfinal against Ecuador, according to TyC Sports. Messi had missed the final group match due to a hamstring injury but trained with the team on Thursday. Coach Lionel Scaloni expressed optimism about Messi’s availability, stating they would make a final decision after assessing his response. The probable lineup includes key players like Emiliano Martinez, Cristian Romero, and Lautaro Martinez alongside Messi. AFP

Colombia secured a 1-1 draw against Brazil in the Copa America, advancing to the quarter-finals as group winners. Daniel Munoz equalized for Colombia after Raphinha’s early free-kick goal for Brazil. The result sets up a quarter-final clash between Colombia and Panama, while Brazil will face Uruguay. Brazil’s Vinicius Jr will miss the next match due to a yellow card. Colombia extended their unbeaten run to 26 international games. Costa Rica defeated Paraguay 2-1 in another Group D match. AFP

Turkey advanced to the Euro 2024 quarter-finals with a 2-1 victory over Austria. Merih Demiral scored both goals for Turkey, opening the scoring in the first minute and adding another in the 60th. Michael Gregoritsch pulled one back for Austria, but Turkey held on thanks to a stunning late save by goalkeeper Mert Gunok. Turkey will face the Netherlands in the quarter-finals on Saturday in Berlin. AFP

In a Euro 2024 last-16 match, the Netherlands defeated Romania 3-0, with Cody Gakpo scoring his third goal of the tournament and Donyell Malen adding two late goals. The Dutch dominated possession and created numerous chances, including a disallowed goal for Gakpo and a header from Virgil van Dijk that hit the post. This victory marks the Netherlands’ first Euro quarter-final appearance since 2008, where they will face either Austria or Turkey in Berlin on Saturday. Reuters

Cristiano Ronaldo announced that the current Euro Championship will be his last. After Portugal’s penalty shootout victory over Belgium in the Round of 16, the 39-year-old expressed mixed emotions. Despite missing a crucial penalty in extra time, Ronaldo scored in the shootout. Portugal’s goalkeeper, Diogo Costa, made three saves, securing their place in the quarterfinals. Ronaldo emphasized the importance of team effort and Portugal’s deserved victory. source: Daily Star

The United States was eliminated from the Copa America after losing 1-0 to Uruguay, while Panama advanced with a 3-1 victory over Bolivia. Uruguay’s controversial goal by Mathias Olivera in the 66th minute sealed USA’s fate. The early exit raises questions about coach Gregg Berhalter’s future, given his poor record against top-ranked teams. US captain Christian Pulisic acknowledged the team’s lack of quality in the match. The defeat extends USA’s struggles in major tournaments. AFP

Portugal advanced to the Euro 2024 quarter-finals after beating Slovenia 3-0 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa saved three Slovenian penalties, while Ronaldo, Fernandes, and Silva scored for Portugal. Ronaldo had earlier missed a penalty in extra time, leading to an emotional moment. Slovenia’s Jan Oblak made a crucial save during the match. Portugal will now face France in the quarter-finals. The game showcased intense defensive play and dramatic moments throughout. Reuters

The Bangladesh Football Federation’s Annual General Meeting was held without significant discussion of recent FIFA sanctions against BFF officials for financial irregularities. Only one councillor raised questions about the issue. Most attendees were reportedly more concerned about the gift sarees they received. Some district officials requested financial support for grassroots football development. The current BFF executive committee’s tenure ends on October 3, with elections expected in mid-September. Daily Star

Spain defeated Georgia 4-1 in the Euro 2024 round of 16, advancing to the quarter-finals where they will face hosts Germany. Despite conceding an early own goal, Spain dominated with goals from Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Nico Williams, and Dani Olmo. Georgia’s fairytale run in their first-ever Euros came to an end. Spain’s performance, featuring strong play from youngsters Williams and Yamal, sent a message of intent for the remainder of the tournament. Reuters

Abahani, a top Bangladeshi football club, is set to appoint Mario Rivera Campesino as their new coach for the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League season. The 46-year-old Spaniard previously worked with East Bengal FC in India and the Brunei national team. Abahani’s acting director-in-charge, Kazi Nabil Ahmed, confirmed the decision, citing Rivera’s regional experience and qualifications. The club aims to end their six-season title drought, having last won before Bashundhara Kings’ five-year dominance began in 2018-19. Daily Star

Argentina defeated Peru 2-0 in their Copa America match, despite Messi’s absence due to injury. Lautaro Martinez scored both goals, securing Argentina’s place in the quarter-finals as Group A winners. In another Group A match, Canada held Chile to a 0-0 draw, advancing to the quarter-finals. Chile’s chances were hampered by Gabriel Suazo’s early dismissal. Argentina will face the Group B runner-up in the quarter-finals, while Canada will play the Group B winners. AFP

Brazil defeated Paraguay 4-1 in their Copa America Group D match. Vinicius Junior scored twice, with Savio and Lucas Paqueta also netting for Brazil. Omar Alderete scored Paraguay’s lone goal. The win puts Brazil second in Group D with four points, behind Colombia who have already qualified for the quarterfinals. Costa Rica are third with one point, while Paraguay remains pointless after two defeats. The match showcased Brazil’s attacking prowess, particularly Vinicius Junior’s performance. Reuters

Lionel Messi will miss Argentina’s final Copa America group match against Peru due to muscle tightness. Assistant coach Walter Samuel announced Messi’s absence, stating they’re monitoring his condition daily. Argentina, already qualified for the quarter-finals, may rest key players but aim to win to secure the top spot in their group. Coach Lionel Scaloni is suspended for the match due to the team’s late arrivals in previous games. Source AFP

CONMEBOL suspended Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and Chile coach Ricardo Gareca for one match each due to their teams’ late arrivals on the field during Copa America. Both national federations were fined $15,000. The suspensions stem from Argentina’s late second-half start against Canada and Chile’s delayed halftime substitution against Argentina. The coaches will miss their final group stage matches on Saturday, with Argentina already qualified for the quarter-finals. Reuters

Uruguay secured a dominant 5-0 victory over Bolivia in their Copa America Group C match in New Jersey. Goals from Facundo Pellistri, Darwin Nunez, Maximiliano Araujo, Federico Valverde, and Rodrigo Bentancur sealed the win. This result almost guarantees Uruguay’s place in the quarter-finals. They will top the group if they avoid defeat against the United States in their final group game, with a strong chance of progressing even if they lose due to their superior goal difference. Reuters

The Euro 2024 last 16 matches are set, featuring a mix of tournament favorites and underdogs. Highlights include Germany vs Denmark, England vs Slovakia, and France vs Belgium. Spain and Portugal are expected to advance, while Georgia celebrates their first knockout stage appearance. Italy faces a tough test against Switzerland, and the Netherlands look to redeem themselves against Romania. The round of 16 matches will take place from June 29 to July 3, promising exciting football action. AFP

Venezuela secured a quarter-final spot in the Copa America with a 1-0 win over Mexico, eliminating Jamaica. Salomon Rondon scored the only goal from a penalty. Mexico missed a late penalty to equalize. In another match, Ecuador defeated Jamaica 3-1, keeping their qualification hopes alive. The results leave Venezuela top of Group B with six points, while Mexico and Ecuador will compete for the remaining qualification spot in their final group game. AFP

France aims to secure top spot in Euro 2024 Group D against eliminated Poland. Kylian Mbappe’s availability remains uncertain after a nose injury. France has struggled to score, while the Netherlands leads the group on goal difference. Poland, already out, sees this as preparation for World Cup qualifiers. The match could mark the international farewell for Polish veterans Wojciech Szczesny and Robert Lewandowski. France seeks to replicate their 2022 World Cup victory over Poland.Daily Star

Colombia extended their unbeaten streak to 24 matches with a 2-1 victory over Paraguay in their Copa America 2024 Group D opener. James Rodriguez provided assists for Daniel Munoz and Jefferson Lerma’s first-half goals. Julio Enciso scored for Paraguay. Colombia’s next match is against Costa Rica, while Paraguay faces Brazil. The win marks Colombia’s ninth consecutive victory since March 2022. Reuters

Spain maintained their perfect Euro 2024 Group B record, defeating Albania 1-0 with a second-string lineup. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 13th minute. Spain tops the group with nine points, while Albania finishes last with one point. The result also confirmed France, Netherlands, and England’s progression to the knockout stage before their final group matches. Reuters

Italy secured a spot in Euro 2024 knockout stage with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Croatia. Luka Modric became the oldest goalscorer in Euros history at 38, but Mattia Zaccagni’s last-minute equalizer sent Italy through. Croatia, with only two points, faces possible elimination. Italy will face Switzerland in the last 16, while Croatia’s fate depends on other results. AFP

Uruguay defeated Panama 3-1 in their Copa America Group C match in Florida. Goals from Maximilian Araujo, Darwin Nunez, and Matias Vina secured the win for Uruguay, while Michael Amir Murillo scored a consolation goal for Panama. The victory puts Uruguay level with the United States on three points in the group. Uruguay’s next match is against Bolivia, while Panama will face the United States. Luis Suarez, Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer, was an unused substitute. Reuters

Hungary secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Scotland in Euro 2024 with Kevin Csoboth scoring the winning goal in the 100th minute. The result puts Hungary in contention for a last-16 spot as one of the best third-placed teams, while Scotland exits the tournament. The match was marred by a serious injury to Hungary’s Barnabas Varga. Scotland’s captain Andy Robertson expressed disappointment, apologizing to fans for letting them down. Source Reuters

Germany secured top spot in Euro 2024 Group A with a last-gasp 1-1 draw against Switzerland in Frankfurt. Dan Ndoye gave Switzerland the lead in the 28th minute, stunning the hosts. Niclas Fuellkrug came off the bench to equalize with a stoppage-time header, rescuing Germany. The result means Switzerland faces a tougher last-16 match-up, while Germany will likely meet the second-place team from England’s group. German coach Nagelsmann called the equalizer and group win “deserved.” AFP

Venezuela defeated 10-man Ecuador 2-1 in their Copa America Group B match. Ecuador’s Enner Valencia was sent off early, but they still managed to take the lead through Jeremy Sarmiento. However, second-half substitutes Jhonder Cadiz and Eduard Bello scored for Venezuela to secure the win. Ecuador’s coach Felix Sanchez acknowledged the challenge of playing with 10 men but remains optimistic for the remaining group matches. AFP

Portugal secured their place in the Euro 2024 knockout stage with a convincing 3-0 victory over Turkey. Goals from Bernardo Silva, an own goal by Samet Akaydin, and Bruno Fernandes sealed the win. Cristiano Ronaldo assisted Fernandes’ goal. The match was briefly interrupted by pitch invaders, including a young fan who took a selfie with Ronaldo. Portugal leads Group F with six points, while Turkey needs a draw against the Czech Republic to secure second place. AFP

Georgia held the Czech Republic to a 1-1 draw in their Euro 2024 Group F match. Georgia took the lead with a penalty from Georges Mikautadze, but Patrik Schick equalized for the Czechs. Both teams now have one point from two games and need a win in their final group match to progress. The game was intense and entertaining, with Georgia’s strong defense and counter-attacks challenging the higher-ranked Czech team. Schick’s injury after scoring could be a concern for the Czechs’ next game. Reuters

Italian football legend Roberto Baggio was injured during a home burglary while watching Euro 2024. Five armed intruders broke into his house near Vicenza, striking him on the head with a gun. Baggio and his family were locked in a room for 40 minutes while the burglars searched for valuables. After the incident, Baggio received stitches for his head wound. The 1993 Ballon d’Or winner is known for his illustrious career with top Italian clubs and the national team. Source AFP

Argentina defeated Canada 2-0 in their Copa America opener in Atlanta. Julian Alvarez scored in the 49th minute, and Lautaro Martinez sealed the win in the 88th. Despite Lionel Messi’s missed chances, Argentina dominated but faced strong resistance from Canada’s goalkeeper Max Crepeau. The match, attended by over 70,000 fans, marked Messi’s record 35th Copa America appearance. Canada showed resilience but couldn’t overcome the world champions. AFP

Spain secured their spot in the Euro 2024 last 16 with a dominant 1-0 victory over defending champions Italy. An own goal by Riccardo Calafiori, forced by Nico Williams’ cross, was the difference. Spain’s performance was impressive, with Williams starring and Gianluigi Donnarumma making crucial saves for Italy. The win guarantees Spain top spot in Group B, while Italy still has a chance to qualify with a draw against Croatia in their final group match. Source AFP

Germany became the first team to qualify for the Euro 2024 knockout stage with a 2-0 win over Hungary in Group A. Jamal Musiala and Ilkay Gundogan scored as the hosts cruised to victory. Hungary wasted several chances and had a goal disallowed before Gundogan’s late strike sealed it. With two wins from two games, Germany is guaranteed to at least be among the four best third-placed teams. Reuters

France captain Kylian Mbappe is a doubt for their Euro 2024 clash against the Netherlands after breaking his nose in the 1-0 win over Austria. The 25-year-old suffered the injury following a collision with Kevin Danso towards the end of the match. Mbappe, who did not require surgery, will have a mask fitted and undergo a period of treatment, but his participation against the Dutch on Friday “remains uncertain”, according to the French Football Federation.

Turkey secured a thrilling 3-1 victory over debutants Georgia in their Euro 2024 opener on Tuesday. Real Madrid’s Arda Guler scored a brilliant goal, while Mert Muldur and Kerem Akturkoglu were also on the scoresheet for Turkey. Georges Mikautadze had briefly equalized for the brave Georgians, who impressed despite the defeat at a rain-soaked Westfalenstadion in Dortmund.