Everton and Arsenal Schalke wait on Ace

Everton and Arsenal Schalke wait on Ace

Both Everton and Arsenal are waiting in the wings to see if Lewis Holtby renew his contract with Schalke, according Talksport.

22 years, the midfielder agreement with the German club expires this summer and negotiations are underway with a decision expected in due course.

Schalke general manager Horst Heldt said: "The negotiations are in the final phase is to detail"

"A decision will be taken before the end of the year. Will just watch it (sold in January) if someone expresses an interest."

It is believed that Arsenal and Everton would be willing to sign a player in January agreed discount. A pre-contract agreement could also examine whether Holtby decided not to renew with the Gelsenkirchen-based club. It is, however, that the move to Goodison Park would be an ideal target young people, because he is an avowed fan Everton.

Holtby has always expressed the desire to one day play in the Premier League and was allowed to play for England by his father, before he was given a German cap in 2010.

We are already seeing a significant change in the Premier League?

We are already seeing a significant change in the Premier League?

The surprise package this season should be West Bromwich Albion. They are currently in third place, another third in the Premier League and enjoy a new life under Steve Clarke.

We also saw Everton enjoying an impressive start to the season, and newly promoted West Ham sit comfortably in the top eight.

So we are finally starting to see a shift of power in the Premier League? I truly believe that the appearance of the surprise teams above could be an early sign that the top four of the Premier League are threatened.

We saw Tottenham break the mold of the top four in recent years, while on the downside, we saw melted in a Liverpool team that has been able to compete for a place in the top six.

But what about the other clubs who had to settle for half dark or table relegation battle each other strange season? Well, a handful or trying to get their own share themsleves small cake and so far seems to be successful.

After 13 games in the elite, we have seen some shock results that alter the balance of the elite of the Premier League. West Brom beat Liverpool and Chelsea, Tottenham and drawn only lost two goals from Edin Dzeko to Manchester City home.

Everton beat Manchester United and got a good draws against Newcastle and Liverpool, while even placed 13th Norwich started winningest law at home to Manchester United and Arsenal to go with your significant distance to Tottenham and Everton.

And even the West Ham in their first season back in the Premier League, Newcastle separated and fought a goalless draw at home to Manchester City Champions.
Of course, there are people who reject these results as abnormal and called West Brom current state of third place as just a run of good form, will surely come to an end. That may be true, but at this point last season in the Premier League, there are some striking differences in which each team people believe it should be, as was done in this stage of the season past and where they are now.

From the top four last season, only Manchester United has the same specific points (30) as they did after 13 games last season. The difference is that last season, they were four points behind rivals Manchester City at the top of the division in relation to where they are now one point above the city, with Roberto Mancini five points worse this season with 29 .

Arsenal is three points worse this year, but still ranks sixth even did exactly a year earlier, while Tottenham scored eight points whit better than last year at present.

On the other hand, let's look at how the surprise packages this season at West Bromwich Albion and Everton and became the amazing artists against Newcastle last season.

On November 26, 2011, West Brom were 13 with 14 points and Everton finished eighth with 16 points. Today, Baggies are third with 26 points and David Moyes Candy "is fifth with 21 points. This is a huge improvement in just one year only, and should not go unnoticed. Meanwhile, Alan Pardew Newcastle's 12 points and 10 worst places in the Premier League this time last year.

Other clubs are worse this year Swansea (-4 points), Liverpool (-6) Aston Villa (-5), QPR (11) and Norwich (-1), while the teams have improved Wigan (5) Fulham (4) , Stoke and Sunderland (as +1).

With the teams should be running away with it eventually gets worse at this stage last season and teams should not do much to combat or exceed expectations, it seems that we are seeing the first signs of a change in the Premier League power.

I'm not suggesting that people like United, City, Arsenal and Chelsea have their title and the first four times the immediate threat, but I think the Premier League has become a league where teams are capable of beating anyone one ever . Despite the money are the elite players spend every transfer window, we see even fewer clubs compete against them every week and sometimes get results. In short, the Premier League seems to be more of an equal footing this season.

This could, of course, a blip and normal service can be resumed earlier than we thought, but as things we can not close our eyes to what we have seen so far this season.

The only way forward by removing football?

The only way forward by removing football?

The Premier League seems unable to enjoy a weekend filled football without being overshadowed by attempting the dreaded word "d". Not deny diving is commonplace, but once a maneuver avant-garde, this season has shown its filtration into the mainstream. The problem has long been identified yet, the solution remains uncertain. Is it time to mount a campaign to ensure that the guilty are punished retrospectively?

Coverage of the beautiful game carefully invasive means that each incident of litigation is the brilliance of media attention. With supporters refuse to accept its existence in the modern game of makeup and administrators increasingly outraged that begins to decide the outcome has never been a better time to combat the problem?

The threat of a yellow card just is not worth intimidating necessary to deter adult offenders. At present, the potential rewards offered are worth the risk ridicule, especially when there is a new set of talking points that dominate the headlines next week. Gareth Bale and Luis Suarez are two of the best players in the division, but they may permanently stain his reputation blatant falls to the ground.
Mark Clattenburg management Fernando Torres - Jonny Evans confrontation is the perfect example of how public servants can not wait to make a judgment call second division with consistent accuracy. The ugly scenes following the incident were probably fed by its decision and must act as a milestone for change.

Tony Pulis has promised the approval of a retrospective action after seeing his team suffer defeat at Carrow Road. The only goal that won the game for Norwich came from a free kick was awarded when Robert Snodgrass hit the turf under pressure from Andy Wilkinson.

Stoke can be a bit hypocritical in their demands, taking into account the robust and aggressive style of play, but players can book for violent conduct after the game, why not apply the same rules for diving?

"There must be people of football -. Former players who know the game You could have a three-person panel and rotate every week There are many people on the work that can be called on this panel.". (Telegraph)

At first glance, it seems to be a promising concept and could be implemented almost immediately. However, FIFA have been reluctant to approve the plan because it could snowball into consideration of all arbitration decisions or even just encourage more people to promote the use of video evidence during match. Sepp Blatter, also echoed the belief that Roy Hodgson would be almost impossible to trust the sincerity of others.

It is by no means a radical idea, the Italian Football Federation has a similar system in place. In 2010, there was uproar when midfielder Milos Krasic Juventus was suspended two games for diving clear, but despite strong protests from the Old Lady, the suspension is served in its entirety.

Last weekend Alessio Cerci Torino and Sampdoria Marcelo Estigarribia was fined € 2,000 for acts of simulation and as such just fine echo in the consciousness of a footballer, he does at least highlight consistency the struggle to eliminate the comedy series A.

In my eyes, any proposed group should only intervene in cases painfully obvious, like frog splash Suarez against Stoke last week. As Gary Neville expert explained later in the saga of Ashley Young, it is impossible to condemn a player diving when the contact was clearly established. Similarly, there is a strong case for the players go to ground in order to attract the attention of the referee charges.

Unfortunately, despite the growing need to address the issue, we are more likely to have additional staff placed at each end of the field as a resolution. Unfortunately, as it appears to fight Mario Balotelli during the height of Tuesday's draw with Ajax, hesitation wizard wand does nothing to affect the game if you can see a flagrant when it is just in front of them, what hope has a will?
The arbitrators found in surreal levels of pressure to try to eradicate the material, but it only served to pile more mistakes in the procedures that were already plagued by errors. It seems impossible that the work was a little more difficult.

Sneijder is happier with Leonardo

Sneijder is happier with Leonardo

Wesley Sneijder has admitted that he is much happier under the new Inter Milan boss Leonardo was when Rafael Benitez was in charge at San Siro.

Benitez was fired in December after failing to build on the success of its predecessor, Jose Mourinho and Holland playmaker Sneijder believes morale has improved after club. AD Sportwereld said: "I feel better, more comfortable in my skin on the floor.

"And I'd be lying if I said the coaching change has nothing to do with it. 'S new coach, Leonardo, works much like Mourinho. Everybody feels much better with him."

The results have also improved with Leonardo at Inter move five points of Serie A leaders AC Milan with a game in hand.

Manchester United boss doubt the return of Ronaldo

Manchester United boss doubt the return of Ronaldo

Sir Alex Ferguson admits that Cristiano Ronaldo is unlikely to return to Manchester United.

The Portuguese international was largely unknown when he joined the Reds in the summer of 2003 in a deal for Sporting Lisbon, which will cost about 12 million pounds.

Ronaldo spent six years at Old Trafford, helping United win the Premier League three times and the UEFA Champions League, so it has been established world class.

Real Madrid finally paid a world record £ 80 million to take him to the Bernabeu in 2009, and earlier this month its aim to beat Barcelona lift the Copa del Rey.

It has been speculated, however, that 26 years could make a sensational return to the Kingdom, but Ferguson has moved to play down the matter.

"It would be very difficult," said the Reds boss. "He had a great time here, but it is a great club now too. We as a child and went to Madrid a man. "

Gold mine of talent that Premier League clubs should operate

Gold mine of talent that Premier League clubs should operate

This past weekend in the League gave further evidence of the depth and quality of the league outside of Barcelona and Real Madrid. Talk is clear that the race for the league title this time after losing to Barcelona and Real Betis set the standard for the best start in the league for the entire team.

Far from the two do Radamel Falcao wins praise the king and ask for his signature on the biggest clubs in Europe, at least that's the opinion of outside Spain. Falcao Atletico Madrid and Sevilla to put the sword in emphatic fashion with a 4-0 win at the Vicente Calderon. Not only act as another party by the Colombian striker to add to his goal tally in the league in fast-growing, but also demonstrated the effectiveness of Atletico are against good opposition.

The 4-1 win against Chelsea in the UEFA Super Cup is not an accident, and lower-profile players Falcao justly praised. Diego Costa has become a source of inspiration in the club, filling the long Falcao when the option for a new term is needed. It is a powerful hammer he managed to swing the game in favor of Atletico when they looked below par. In midfield, captain Gabi is the glue that holds the whole show together. It's undeniable charm and quality in the lateral Diego Simeone, but Gabi is a holding midfielder not nonsense that offers great stability and leadership even more. He brought the best out of Mario Suarez, who has a long way to offer one of the regulars in the starting lineup, and he brings a balance and discipline in a very offensive team.

His opponent on Sunday are not children either. Sevilla has put another nail in the coffin of the idea that no one denies the power of Real Madrid or Barcelona, ​​who picked up an impressive 1-0 victory over Jose Mourinho's team early in the season. This goal that day came from Piotr Trochowski, an attacking midfielder who adds quality to a midfield and very elegant. Right back Cicinho recovers, where Dani Alves was arrested when he changed the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan to Camp Nou, Sevilla and later Brazilian fullback is probably the best right back in the championship.
Everyone knows Jesus Navas and Falcao, but there are a lot of quality between Sevilla and Atletico including Thibaut Courtois, who is just stupid beyond Chelsea wasted a backup to Petr Cech. Athletic Uruguayan defender Diego Godin was also an incredible player for the team Simeone. Another player who can legitimately claim the title as one of the best defenders in the league, so much of their defensive solidity is due to him and the company he formed with Miranda.

Flying values ​​Isco was a player who is growing in light of youth football in Spain. It's probably best to label it as a young man as he is not yet able to break into a squad of Vicente Del Bosque in Spain, for obvious reasons. But his performance against Valencia at the weekend was another great show, forcing Twitter go weak in the knees for a given stage of the game. The midfielder has been marked by two Valencia players, the by-line and two fluttering behind. But he deflected the ball, the torso of an opponent away before the head tracking and the other is absent. It is a fast dribbler and imagination even faster for the game and many passages is the goal. As it grows, it looks increasingly as Andres Iniesta. And as everyone continues to improve its performance profile, many Premier League clubs should be cursing his lack of decisive action on duty in the summer.

Fall of Real Madrid at the weekend has been directly attributed to Beñat Real Betis, "which scored the only goal with a shot from outside the area. Benat Profile is also increasing in Spain, first with the idea that it might be replaced by Javi Martinez returned to Athletic Bilbao. Nevertheless, there is certainly a feeling that there will be a much bigger club in the near future. seems to be a complete set of midfielder, able to play as a midfielder or striker altitude in a profound role similar to Xabi Alonso. This may be an interesting idea that Basque Betis midfielder "could be the natural replacement for Real Madrid Basque player in midfield, certainly more than Nuri Sahin or Luka Modric.

Moreover, Baptistão Leo played a role in the victory against Mallorca Rayo Vallecano, scoring the first of his two goals. The young Brazilian is another increase in Spanish football, and that is surely destined for the big time in Europe. Allows the Madrid club to spend Michu from summer and already has six goals and four assists to his name.

The economic situation in Spain actually means clubs can not force a stranglehold on its most valuable assets. Atlético will certainly make every effort to convince Falcao their future is at the Vicente Calderon, especially with the honors that can be questioned on the computer. But they will find other ways to generate funds. Sevilla is a team full of quality, why are questions that were able to be in the fight for true consistency and fourth. But far from the big clubs in Spain, small teams are still finding gems in youth academies. The need for its own quarries is something that affects most of Spain, but the league can only act as a breeding ground for a number of clubs in the Premier League and their ability to randomly select desired talent.

West Brom v Chelsea Barclays Premier League Preview

West Brom v Chelsea Barclays Premier League Preview 

Match Preview: Saturday, 17 November ,2012- Watch West Brom v Chelsea Live with the exclusive software with live online support on PC.Today is West Brom v Chelsea , one of the important match of Barclays Premier League Premiership Season.HD Quality Live West Brom v Chelsea streaming is availahere.West Brom v Chelsea Live Stream online video Barclays Premier League Video Free The match will take plcae at the in on 11/17/12 Preview Pictures and Wallpapers its mean all things are available in my blog please see and check here for latest things for you thanks.Watch Free West Brom v Chelsea Stream Free online video Video Of Barclays Premier LeagueSaturday,17 November 2012 Kickoff and Time Table scheduled for 15:00 GMT.Barclays Premier League,Watch Video online video Live online video,West Brom v Chelsea Live Streaming Video,West Brom v Chelsea Stream, West Brom v Chelsea Streaming, West Brom v Chelsea Live,West Brom v Chelsea online video,West Brom v Chelsea Results, Barclays Premier League Fixtures. Just a month ago, Chelsea were four points clear at the top of the table; now they are three points off the pace having gone three games without a win. It's their worst run under Roberto Di Matteo but where better for him to put that right than at the club which sacked him 20 months ago?. Many people questioned Albion's wisdom in getting rid of the Italian so soon after he had guided them back into the Premier League, but the club had slid alarmingly down the table and yet another relegation seemed probable. The appointment of Roy Hodgson brought survival and stability, and the arrival of Steve Clarke has seen West Brom kick-on impressively. With 15 years service at Stamford Bridge as player then assistant-manager, Chelsea fans hold him in high regard already but the job he's done at the Hawthorns is making the rest of the football world sit up and take notice. West Brom are enjoying their best start to a top-flight campaign since 1982: fifth in the table, they've won five out of six at home, a record bettered only by champions Manchester City.This will be a major test of Chelsea's title aspirations, especially as they'll be without John Terry again. Their recent poor form coincided with his suspension, now injury deprives them of his considerable influence. What's more, playmakers Mata, Oscar and Hazard have all been away on international duty this week so there are questions over how fresh will they be. Then there's that crucial Champions League tie away to Juventus on Tuesday; will Di Matteo have one eye on that one?
Recent draws against Swansea and Liverpool may have been disappointing, but taking everything into account maybe a point from this one would be a good result.



Team News:
Chelsea are without captain John Terry, who will be sidelined for up to three weeks with a knee injury according to manager Roberto Di Matteo.Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard remain doubts, while David Luiz and Oscar will be assessed having played for Brazil.On-loan West Brom forward Romelu Lukaku is ineligible to face his parent club.The Baggies are also missing regular goalkeeper Ben Foster (groin) and have doubts over Gareth McAuley and Youssouf Mulumbu (both hamstring).

Head-to-head
West Brom beat Chelsea 1-0 at The Hawthorns last March to end a 17-league match winless run against them. It was Andre Villas-Boas's last game in charge of the Blues before being sacked.
The two clubs met on this date in the top flight in 1984, with Chelsea prevailing 3-1 at Stamford Bridge.

West Brom
The Baggies have taken 15 points from a possible 18 at home this season, only dropping points in defeat by champions Manchester City.
Their tally of 20 points is the most the club have had at this stage of a top-flight season for 30 years.
West Brom have kept clean sheets in four of their six league wins this term.
The Baggies recorded back-to-back wins under Clarke for the first time last weekend. The last time they won three successive games was between February-March, when Chelsea were the third victims of that sequence.
West Brom manager Steve Clarke spent 11 years as a player with Chelsea between 1987-98, making 421 appearances. He also spent four years coaching the Blues' first-team.

Chelsea
Chelsea have gone three league matches without a win - their worst sequence under Roberto Di Matteo. They had previously taken 22 points from the opening eight games.
The Blues have conceded at least once in each of their last six league games.
The west London club have won seven of their opening 11 Premier League matches - the same number of victories they had at the same stage last season under Andre Villas-Boas.
Chelsea's only league win outside London this campaign was at Wigan in their season opener.
Roberto Di Matteo spent 19 months in charge of West Brom between 2009 and 2011, leading the club back to the Premier League in 2010.

Barclays Premier League
Match: West Brom v Chelsea
Date: Saturday, November 17
Kick-off: 15.00 GMT
Venue: The Hawthorns
Live/Repeat: Live

Norwich v Man Utd Barclays Premier League Preview

Norwich v Man Utd Barclays Premier League Preview 

Match Preview: Saturday, 17 November ,2012- Watch Norwich v Man Utd Live with the exclusive software with live online support on PC.Today is Norwich v Man Utd , one of the important match of Barclays Premier League Premiership Season.HD Quality Live Norwich v Man Utd streaming is availahere.Norwich v Man Utd Live Stream online video Barclays Premier League Video Free The match will take plcae at the in on 11/17/12 Preview Pictures and Wallpapers its mean all things are available in my blog please see and check here for latest things for you thanks.Watch Free Norwich v Man Utd Stream Free online video Video Of Barclays Premier League Saturday,17 November 2012 Kickoff and Time Table scheduled for 17:30 GMT.Barclays Premier League,Watch Video online video Live online video,Norwich v Man Utd Live Streaming Video,Norwich v Man Utd Stream, Norwich v Man Utd Streaming, Norwich v Man Utd Live,Norwich v Man Utd online video,Norwich v Man Utd Results, Barclays Premier LeagueFixtures.The first part of the season could hardly have gone much better for Manchester United. They are top of the Premier League, and the Champions' League group stage is already negotiated with two games to spare.To be in such a position despite having an alarmingly leaky defence says much about the United approach this season.

The philosophy has been "you score two and we'll get three." Those United fans who like thrills and spills along the way must be in paradise - they have seen their side concede 26 times in 17 games but score 44 - so they are getting an average of more than four goals a game for and against.United's powers of recovery are not famous without good reason. Late, late winners have been part of Old Trafford folklore ever since Steve Bruce's winner against Sheffield Wednesday in 1993. Even so, to have been behind in 10 games this season and come back to win eight of them is astonishing.

When I wrote the preview to the Norwich versus Arsenal game a month ago, the Canaries had just conceded nine goals in two games against Chelsea and Liverpool and were the bookmakers' favourites to be relegated.I wrote then that I thought the bookies were being premature, and for once I can claim to have been talking sense because Norwich have not lost a game since. They have beaten Arsenal and Stoke at Carrow Road, drawn at Villa and Reading and knocked Spurs out of the League Cup. The most important difference seems to be at the back. Norwich don't have the firepower to be free scorers at this level, so they have to be very savvy defensively. It might be no coincidence that their run of form started with Michael Turner being paired with Sebastien Bassong at the heart of their defence for the first time. Five games unbeaten with only two goals conceded tell their own story.Mind you, what are the odds on this being a high-scoring game with Manchester United storming back to seal victory with a 97th-minute Javier Hernandez offside goal?

Team News:
Norwich midfielder Alex Tettey should be available despite pulling out of the Norway squad for their midweek friendly against Hungary with a back problem.Wayne Rooney and Jonny Evans are doubtful for Manchester United, though Robin van Persie will be fit according to manager Sir Alex Ferguson.Rooney picked up an ankle injury in his side's 3-2 victory over Aston Villa.Ferguson revealed Javier Hernandez is likely to start after his match-winning impact as a substitute against Villa.

Head-to-head
Norwich have only beaten United once in their past 14 league meetings: 2-0 at Carrow Road in April 2005 (W1, D1, L12). In their most recent encounter in February, Ryan Giggs marked his 900th appearance for Manchester United with a 90th-minute winner.

Norwich
The Canaries are unbeaten in their last four league games (W2, D2).
They have kept three clean sheets in that time, and their season's tally of four is bettered by only Stoke and West Ham.
Only Sunderland have scored fewer goals than the eight scored by Norwich.
Michael Turner is poised to make his 300th career league start and his 350th club appearance.

Manchester United
United have won 14 of their last 16 matches in all competitions, including nine of the last 10 league fixtures.
They have trailed in 10 of their 17 matches this season. In the league, they have gained an unrivalled 15 points from losing positions - five times as many as they managed in 2011-12.
A sixth successive away win in the Premier League would represent their best form since a similar sequence between December 2001 and February 2002.
Javier Hernandez has scored seven goals in his last five appearances in all competitions. He has scored 27 goals in 62 league appearances for United, despite only making 34 starts.
Robin van Persie has scored eight goals and registered three assists in 11 Premier League appearances for the club. He has also scored 56 goals in his last 66 league games.
Michael Carrick could make his 400th career league appearance.

Barclays Premier League
Match: Norwich v Man Utd
Date: Saturday, November 17
Kick-off: 17.30 GMT
Venue: Carrow Road

Old boy Pilkington leaves Manchester Uited

Old boy Pilkington leaves Manchester United

Posted: 18 November 2012 0355 hrs

NORWICH, United Kingdom: Manchester United spurned an opportunity to regain first place in the Premier League table when they were stunned 1-0 at Norwich City on Saturday.

Last year's champions Manchester City had moved to the top of the table earlier in the afternoon thanks to a 5-0 home victory over Aston Villa.

And a header on the hour by Norwich winger Anthony Pilkington - a former United trainee - ended up consigning Alex Ferguson's side to their third defeat of the season after only 12 matches.

United were forced to do without Wayne Rooney because of tonsilitis but fellow striker Robin van Persie had been passed fit after missing a mid-week international friendly because of a thigh strain.

Anders Lindegaard kept goal for the visitors, with youngster Sam Johnstone on the bench because David de Gea had to visit the dentist because of a swollen jaw.

The visitors made a bright start, with van Persie forcing Norwich goalkeeper John Ruddy into an early save as Roy Hodgson, the England manager, watched from the stands.

Norwich replied with efforts from Robert Snodgrass and Pilkington that only narrowly failed to hit the target and that was also the case at the other end, where Ryan Giggs' corner was hit first time by van Persie.

Snodgrass was involved in much of the home side's best moments before the break and fired in a shot on the turn that went wide.

United were lacking urgency although Ashley Young's corner might have led to an opener but Patrice Evra, having got goal-side of his marker, completely missed his header.

Snodgrass once again went close, this time with a header, before Norwich's ex-Manchester City man Javier Garrido fired an angled effort across goal and wide.

Norwich captain Grant Holt was denied an opener by Chris Smalling's timely block after more good work on the right by Snodgrass, but it was United who finished the first half the stronger.

The Canaries were grateful that van Persie could make no connection at all after Giggs' long ball had dropped over his shoulder in front of goal and Ruddy's reputation was enhanced by another good save, this time to deny Young.

The second half began with van Persie failing to get the connection he wanted following another ball over the top of the home defence, but he recovered to force Ruddy into a save.

United continued to play at a slow tempo and were punished on the hour mark when they failed to deal with a swift Norwich attack.

Wes Hoolahan teed Garrido up for a cross from the left that Pilkington - having arrived ahead of Chris Smalling - headed high past Lindegaard.

With 20 minutes remaining, United made a double change, with Antonio Valencia and the disappointing Javier Hernandez replaced by the 38-year-old Paul Scholes and Danny Welbeck.

Welbeck immediately saw a header deflected around a post and soon afterwards forced Ruddy into a save with another.

United piled on the pressure to the end and Ruddy had to tip over a header from his own defender, Sebastien Bassong, after substitute Jonny Howson had missed a chance to make it 2-0 at the other end when put through with only Lindegaard to beat.

The final whistle sparked joyous celebrations from the home fans, who have seen their side improve steadily after a shaky start to the season under new manager Chris Hughton.

Messi scores twice as Barcelona make record start to season

Messi scores twice as Barcelona make record start to season

 

Posted: 18 November 2012 0707 hrs  
MADRID: Lionel Messi hit a brace as Barcelona beat Zaragoza 3-1 to make the best ever start to a Liga season but Real Madrid kept in touch with a 5-1 win over Athletic Bilbao.

There were doubts that Tito Vilanova could take on the mantle left by Pep Guardiola this summer but he has proved himself in emphatic fashion with the team notching up eleven wins and a draw so far that leaves them six points clear at the top and eight ahead of bitter rivals Real Madrid.

Messi opened the scoring but while Francisco Montanes brought Zaragoza level, Alex Song restored the advantage before the break. Messi got his second and his 17th of the season to ensure a victory and another record with Barca's start beating those of Real Madrid in the 1968-69 and the 1991-92 seasons.

"It was an excellent performance from the team and Leo is a key player but he doesn't do it on his own and has great players around him," said Vilanova afterwards.

Madrid have an uphill task to now catch Barca but the ease with which they took apart Athletic suggests they are on the right track.

A deflected shot from Karim Benzema off Jon Aurtenetxe put them ahead after 12 minutes and then Sergio Ramos and Benzema again gave them a commanding lead. Ibai Gomez reduced the arrears before the break but Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira made it a heavy defeat for sorry Athletic.
Barca had their preferred centre-half pairing of Gerard Pique and Carles Puyol available for the first time since mid-September due to injuries and Song was chosen ahead of Javier Mascherano to play the defensive midfield role with Sergio Busquets suspended.

The main surprise for Zaragoza was the decision to play Carlos Aranda in attack rather than the in-form Helder Postiga with the likely reason that he is more of a team player who drops deep than an out-and-out striker.

Injuries and suspension forced Zaragoza to field makeshift defence with Raul Goni coming in at left back and Adam Pinter in the centre, and they struggled from the start especially on the left.

Jordi Alba crossed for Messi in the first minute and though he shot just wide the Argentine did put Barca ahead after 15 minutes with Alba again the supplier.

Messi was given plenty of room in the heart of the defence to pick his spot and slotted past keeper Roberto Jimenez.

Barca were looking lively and passing the ball with fluidity despite the fact that a number had been away on international duty during the week, but Zaragoza drew level out of the blue.

The home side failed to clear a corner with full-back Martin Montoya only finding the edge of the area where Montanes fired the ball back in and it found the back of the net after taking a slight deflection off Puyol.

With the ease that Barca were opening up Zaragoza there was little alarm among the Catalan faithful and five minutes later it was their idol Messi who set up the second goal. He pulled the ball back from the deadball line for Song to score a rare goal.

Barca continued to dominate the game but Zaragoza looked dangerous when they did attack with Victor Rodriguez and Montanes going close with shots from distance before the break.

The home side then dropped their level with passes going astray, giving some hope to Zaragoza on the counter-attack.

But Messi responded to wrap the game up with half an hour to go with another clinical finish. This time he was found by the right full-back Montoya and he found the bottom corner from the edge of the area.

Earlier, a contentious late penalty by Roberto Soldado condemned nine-man Espanyol to a 2-1 defeat by Valencia.

Bottom-side Espanyol more than held their own after Samuele Longo equalised Jonathan Viera's opener but minutes from the end Hector Moreno was adjudged to have handled in the area. Replays suggest the ball hit his chest.

Moreno and Sergio Garcia were dismissed for complaining.

Elsewhere, Malaga drew 0-0 away to Osasuna.

- AFP/d 

Real Madrid send Man City to another early exit

Real Madrid send Man City to another early exit

     Published : 21 Nov 2012 21:51:01

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho marked his 100th Champions League game with a 1-1 draw at Manchester City on Wednesday that sent his side into the last 16 at City's expense.

City had to win to stand any chance of going through, so although Sergio Aguero's 73rd-minute penalty cancelled out Karim Benzema's early opener, the hosts went out in the group phase for a second successive season.

Madrid had Alvaro Arbeloa sent off, but with eight points -- three less than Group D leaders Borussia Dortmund -- they cannot be caught by either Ajax or City, who had not lost in their 19 previous European home games.

http://lucky99football.blogspot.com/

The English champions trail Ajax by a point and therefore must win at Dortmund in their final group fixture and hope the Dutch side lose in Madrid if they are to secure the consolation prize of a Europa League berth.

Mourinho, the youngest coach to reach the 100-match milestone, is now a step closer to delivering an elusive 10th European Cup to the Spanish champions, who have already fallen eight points off the pace in La Liga.

City coach Roberto Mancini elected to deploy a three-man defence at the Etihad Stadium, but the home side's defenders did not seem comfortable with the system and Madrid were quick to profit.

In the 10th minute, Angel di Maria was given space to cross from the right and his centre found the unmarked Benzema, who cantered in behind Maicon to beat Joe Hart on the volley from close range.

With Maicon and Pablo Zabaleta on the pitch, the right side of City's defence should have been secure, but Cristiano Ronaldo found plenty of room there.

Roundly booed on his first appearance in the city since leaving Manchester United in 2009, Ronaldo twice reached the byline on Madrid's left, only for Sami Khedira to put both of his crosses wide.

Ronaldo was bearing down on goal again moments later, but Matija Nastasic got back to clear his goal-bound lob off the line and Hart parried his follow-up.

Khedira darted through on goal after 24 minutes, only to miscue an attempted chip, which allowed Hart to save.

City changed their shape, with Zabaleta switching to left-back in a conventional back four, but they were unable to make inroads into the Madrid area.

Their best effort saw Iker Casillas forced to tip over a 25-yard effort from Aguero, who also teed up Maicon for a shot that dribbled wide.

The hosts improved early in the second period, with Aguero heading over from Maicon's cross and David Silva shooting at Casillas after Arbeloa's clearance came straight to him.

Carlos Tevez was introduced on the hour but still fortune eluded City, with Aguero's close-range volley miraculously kept out by Casillas in the 64th minute.

The game turned eight minutes later, after Arbeloa was shown a second yellow card for a push on Aguero inside the Madrid area.

Just as he had done in Saturday's 5-0 win over Aston Villa, Aguero converted the spot-kick, and City's last-16 ambitions appeared revived.

Tevez fired in a low shot that Casillas comfortably held, but despite five minutes of added time that prompted an incredulous reaction from Mourinho, there was to be no late drama.

City go out after Real draw

Manchester City	1-1	Real Madrid
Sergio Aguero 74 (pen)		Karim Benzema 10

• Live Scorecentre

City go out after Real draw

Wednesday 21st November 2012 21:42

Manchester City have been eliminated from the UEFA Champions League following a 1-1 draw at home to Real Madrid.

City's slim hopes of qualification going into the game depended upon results elsewhere and the Premier League champions winning their remaining two fixtures.

That looked unlikely when Karim Benzema took advantage of slack marking from Maicon to convert Angel Di Maria's right-wing cross inside 10 minutes.

But City improved in the second half and the equaliser came from the penalty spot when Alvaro Arbeloa was adjudged to have pulled down Sergio Aguero in the box.

Arbeloa was given a red card for a second bookable offence and Aguero got up to convert the spot-kick, setting things up for an exciting finale.

There would be no fairy-tale turnaround for the home side though and they struggled to create another chance as Real held on to ensure their own passage into the last 16.

Jose Mourinho's men had appeared in the mood to wrap things up quickly as they peppered the City goal early on and Sami Khedira should have added to the lead soon after the opener.

The Germany international danced past two challenges but then delayed his shot and Joe Hart came off his line to smother the ball at the midfielders feet.

City once again seemed uncomfortable with their 3-5-2 formation and Roberto Mancini switched to a back-four midway through the first half.

That produced a more upbeat performance and the home side carried that into their second-half display, nearly finding an equaliser just after the hour-mark when Iker Casillas denied Aguero from close range.

That equaliser did come in the end but it was not enough for City and they go out of the Champions League in the group stage for the second consecutive season.

Manchester City Team Statistics Real Madrid
1 Goals 1
0 1st Half Goals 1
6 Shots on Target 5
5 Shots off Target 4
2 Blocked Shots 5
4 Corners 2
21 Fouls 10
3 Offsides 7
5 Yellow Cards 2
0 Red Cards 1
84.7 Passing Success 73.8
18 Tackles 19
94.4 Tackles Success 78.9
65.4 Possession 34.6
53.9 Territorial Advantage 46.1
581 Total Passes 309
23 Total Crosses 12
149 Lost Balls 143
58 Recoveries 66
67.9 1st Half Poss. 32.1
61.9 2nd Half Poss. 38.1

Leaky Barca gaining reputation as comeback kings

Leaky Barca gaining reputation as comeback kings

Source :



Last Updated: Wed, Oct 24, 2012 16:05 hrs

When Tito Vilanova stepped up from assistant coach to replace Pep Guardiola at Barcelona at the end of last season there were mutterings that he might not be as effective a motivator as his charismatic close friend.

Judging by a series of stirring fightback including Tuesday's 2-1 Champions League home win over Celtic, Vilanova's players have lost none of the hunger Guardiola instilled in them during his spectacularly successful four years in charge.

Barca had to come from behind to beat Spartak Moscow 3-2 at home last month and Jordi Alba's 94th-minute winner against Celtic put them five points clear of the Scottish champions at the top of the group after three of six matches.

They also rallied to win at Sevilla and Osasuna in La Liga, reversing a two-goal deficit for a 3-2 success in Seville, and both Vilanova and sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta paid tribute to that fighting spirit

"It's not easy when the other team's 10 outfield players are all in their penalty area defending," the 44-year-old added.

Zubizarreta added in an interview with Spanish television: "This is a team that wants, that desires, that tries and it's something to feel proud of.

"We had several chances to score before and when (David) Villa hit the post in the last minute you thought that was it. But these players always have something in reserve."

The other side of the coin is that Barca's unusually leaky defence is shipping the goals that force them to chase games in the first place.

Part of the reason is that Spain centre backs Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique have been sidelined by injury but there have also been some disturbing lapses and goalkeeper Victor Valdes is not looking as solid as he has in recent years.

Barca have already conceded 11 goals in eight La Liga games this season, including four in Saturday's action-packed 5-4 victory at Deportivo Coruna, while they let in only 29 in 38 matches last term.

"Well, people said before that we were boring to watch," Vilanova said. "Now we are not boring anymore."




Vilanova deployed Marc Bartra at centre back against Celtic alongside converted midfielder Javier Mascherano and the 21-year-old produced a solid performance suggesting he could be a long-term replacement for Puyol, who will be 35 in April.

African Champions League: Al Ahly beat holders Esperance

African Champions League: Al Ahly beat holders Esperance

Egypt's Al Ahly surprised holders Esperance of Tunisia with a 2-1 second-leg win to lift the African Champions League 3-2 on aggregate.

17 November 2012Last updated at 21:54 GMT

Gedo fired in Al Ahly's opener from 12 yards shortly before half-time and Walid Soliman doubled their lead just after the hour mark.

Esperance's Yannick N'djeng pulled a goal back to set up a tense finish.

Al Ahly had Mohamed Aboutrika's late penalty saved but held on to become African champions for a seventh time.

Hossam Ghaly lifted the trophy to seal a remarkable win amide a domestic season in Egypt that has been postponed indefinitely because of the February stadium riots that left 74 people dead.

Al Ahly, who extended their own record for the most African Champions League wins, will represent the continent at the Fifa Club World Cup in Japan next month.

Esperance fielded a weakened side because of suspensions and injuries, although Youssef Msakni returned to the team despite having had an operation for appendicitis two weeks ago.

The Tunisian side were the more defensive in a first half that produced some flowing football but few goalscoring opportunities.

Ahly were rewarded for their purpose when Gedo struck on 43 minutes after good work down the left from Hamdy Al-Sayed, who shook off a defender and cut the ball back from the goal-line.

Esperance came into the second half with more urgency, and N'djeng had a shot saved on 53 minutes.

Soliman made it 2-0 in the 61st minute, hooking the ball over the head of Esperance defender Mohamed Ben Mansour to leave himself one-on-one with the keeper on the edge of the box before shooting into the bottom-right corner.

N'djeng then hit the post, before finally getting his goal with six minutes to go, side-footing in from six yards - but Esperance still needed two more goals if they were to retain their title.

Ahly legend Aboutrika had his penalty pushed past the post by Esperance keeper Moez Ben Cherifia, who had fouled Ahly's Mauritania striker Dominique Da Silva.

Messi's 15th La Liga treble earns Barca 5-4 win

Messi's 15th La Liga treble earns Barca 5-4 win

Last Updated: Sun, Oct 21, 2012 12:08 hr

Madrid: Lionel Messi's 15th La Liga hat-trick lit up a nerve-jangling nine-goal thriller as Barcelona survived Javier Mascherano's red card to win 5-4 at Deportivo Coruna to go three points clear at the top on Saturday.

Messi's latest master class overshadowed Real Madrid's drab 2-0 triumph at home to promoted Celta Vigo. Gonzalo Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo (penalty) scored the goals that lifted Jose Mourinho's team to fourth place, eight points behind arch rivals Barca.

World Player of the Year Messi, who is expecting the imminent birth of his first child, has notched 71 goals for club and country in 2012. That leaves him only four short of the record set by Brazilian great Pele in 1959.

The Argentine has 11 goals in eight La Liga outings this season, two more than Ronaldo. Unbeaten Barca have 22 points, three ahead of Atletico Madrid who play their game in hand at Real Sociedad on Sunday (8:30 p.m. British time).

"He (Messi) is off to the hospital now for a happy occasion as his son is on the way," Barca sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta told Spanish television.
Malaga are third on 17 points after Joaquin made amends for fluffing a penalty by grabbing the winner in a 2-1 victory at home to Real Valladolid.

On a day full of late drama, Valencia got their stuttering season back on track when they snatched a 3-2 win over struggling Athletic Bilbao who were leading 2-1 when they had Ander Herrera sent off midway through the second half.

Barca looked to be cruising to a seventh win of the campaign when they raced into a three-goal lead after 18 minutes at Depor's Riazor stadium.

Jordi Alba sped on to a Cesc Fabregas pass to score in the third minute, Cristian Tello added a second and then Messi smashed in his first of the night after Fabregas's clever back heel.

The home side pulled two goals back against the run of play through Pizzi (penalty) and Alex Bergantinos before Messi made the most of another Fabregas assist to make it 4-2 at the break.

In a frenetic start to the second half Depor midfielder Pizzi curled in a stunning 47th-minute free kick and Mascherano was harshly shown a second yellow card two minutes later.

Barca coach Tito Vilanova reacted by replacing Fabregas with Xavi before Messi, who also struck a free kick against the post, appeared to have killed the game when he made it 5-3 with a trademark run and clinical finish in the 77th minute.

A bizarre own goal from Barca full back Jordi Alba, when he lobbed keeper Victor Valdes from inside his own penalty area, gave Depor fresh hope but they were unable to make some late pressure count.

HUGE CONFIDENCE

"We could have killed off the game in the first half but Deportivo are strong when they are playing at home and their fans get behind them," said Barca playmaker Andres Iniesta.

"We are going away with the feeling of having got through a tough match and we will learn from that."

Real, who are clawing their way up the table after a poor start to the defence of their title, took an 11th-minute lead at the Bernabeu thanks to a Higuain cross-shot from the left that looped over Celta goalkeeper Sergio and into the net.

The home team struggled to break through Celta's well-drilled defence and needed a 67th-minute Ronaldo penalty, awarded for a foul on Mesut Ozil, to double the lead.

The visitors came close to scoring late on but Real keeper Iker Casillas produced a fine save to keep out South Korea striker Park Chu-young's header.

"We need to stay on this path and try to reduce the gap to the leaders," said Real defender Sergio Ramos.

"Our confidence is huge and the league is very long. Until there is no mathematical champion, which won't be for a long time, Madrid will be up there fighting."

Valladolid took an early lead at Malaga through Angola forward Manucho who was then sent off nine minutes from time after picking up a second yellow card.

Promising Spain under-21 playmaker Isco levelled before halftime before Joaquin, a former Spain winger, struck in the 88th minute to make up for his penalty miss three minutes earlier.

An Aritz Aduriz double either side of a Roberto Soldado penalty put Bilbao ahead at the break at Valencia's Mestalla arena.

After Herrera's dismissal for violent conduct, Alberto Costa levelled in the 88th minute and substitute Nelson Valdez nodded a 90th-minute winner.

Valencia are eighth on 11 points while Bilbao are 16th.

Deserved Acclaim 100th England cap against Sweden

Deserved Acclaim

Steven Gerrard will win his 100th England cap against Sweden on Wednesday.

There have been times in England as a shirt. Nineteen international goals demonstrated. But no trophies seems even man is seen as a time of unfulfilled promise. "The computer and the computer is configured as the golden generation and the expectation and pressure has increased over the years," said Gerrard before Euro 2012. "We expected to be delivered in a major tournament and that means it will deliver a final or win a trophy."
Yet, it is not the first superstar English to withstand an international race without cutlery. No Bryan Robson and Peter Shilton deserve to be treated as international chess? Do the achievements of Billy Wright and Sir Tom Finney in a folder in England now tainted by its involvement in the country's humiliating defeat to the United States in the 1950 World Cup?
Sometimes the distance offers perspective and longevity may be its own virtue. Gerrard was the sixth man to win 100 caps for England and there can be no legitimate suggestion he did anything other than victory. As the debate over how best to respond Gerrard and Frank Lampard in the same team, only the blind and reactionaries is omitted from the team.
Injury

The 32-year-old was one of the best players in England for over a decade. But the number of plugs injury could be more. And race could have been more glorious. A groin injury saw Gerrard missed the final of the 2002 World Cup and, who knows, the man who scored his first international goal in the impressive 5-1 victory over Germany in Munich might be a difference in the Far East . So, the story of England has ended in defeat insipid in Brazil, however, represents the toughest test against the eventual winners throughout the summer.

Gerrard scored the first three major tournaments he has started a game for England. During the last two international competitions this safe pair of hands was team captain. Last summer was a team that went to Poland and Ukraine without hope. But Gerrard has produced a series of controlled performance to match at least the best result of the England team has accomplished over the past 22 years. If you can not consider an international winner, has at least respect for the mandates to stick with it.

Both Alan Shearer and Paul Scholes sat on the bench while his former teammates from England traveled abroad to finally be pilloried for their efforts unsatisfactory. The two men retired at 29 and therefore plays a role during the years when his countrymen failed to meet expectations. If Scholesy was just there to keep the ball. What a waste of space that is Heskey ...

Of course, sitting at home in retirement crowned International is the easy part. And take more hits. "Even if I had a lot of setbacks and disappointing time as an international organization, the idea of ​​returning one day as a success and a hero is always there," said Gerrard in the summer. "That's the buzz." That day may never come. But Wednesday night, the England captain deserves praise for always being there after him.

Champion Team of the week

Champion Team of the week

Lee Camp - Nottingham Forest

Forest scored a precious East Midlands Derby Leicester before the cameras of Sky Saturday and played a key role Campo accomplishes this. It was an impressive demonstration of porter 28 years, but the highlight was undoubtedly his jump rescue palm Martyn Waghorn head away in the second half.

Michael Morrison - Charlton Athletic

The Addicks center-back was part of a four rear kept one of only two clean sheets in the league this weekend. More important for the manager Chris Powell and his team also won three points in a 2-0 win against Bristol City on Sunday. Morrison took the second of these goals, slotting home a loose ball inside the area to seal the victory. The 24-year-old also showed what a team player these days - go to right back after a crisis injury against Cardiff.

Roger Johnson - Wolverhampton Wanderers

Part of a defense that conceded three goals this weekend, but Roger Johnson was the selection of players for the transmission on a screen 10-man Wolves evil against Brighton at the weekend. Gus Poyet was unhappy with his team's inability to convert numerical advantage for his team in points and owes much to the header Johnson courageous earn a 3-3 draw in the final moments Wolves Molineux.

Mark Hudson - Cardiff City

Cardiff captain saw his side suffer a kind of flickering in recent times, losing three of four games to be stripped of the championship lead. The Bluebirds even conceded five goals at Charlton last week, but were back and became their best in the 2-1 win against Hull on Saturday. Hudson added a second goal in the last 10 minutes and kept a clean sheet, but superb goal from Robert Koren last minute.

Paul Dixon - Huddersfield Town

The summer signing from Dundee United was a great addition to burrows and showed their skills in a 1-0 win against Barnsley on Saturday. The 25-year-old left back well covered by his teammates and deserved to be part of a white sheet of the fifth season of men Simon Grayson. Dixon is almost cover the entire screen with a goal, but it is still a rising star in the league and was rewarded with his first cap for Scotland in September.

Thomas Ince - Blackpool

Wilfried Zaha win with an international call-up high, Ince may be thinking about your opportunity will not be far. The midfielder, 20, was found attacking the net for the third straight game in the match against Bolton at the weekend - his ninth goal of the season. It was a beautiful goal in line with his wonderful performances in Blackpool recently and now Ince add consistency to his undoubted talent.



Guirane N'Daw - Ipswich Town

Former Birmingham midfielder was redesigned in alignment Ipswich following the appointment of Mick McCarthy and was a key figure in the club to change things. Saturday's win at home against Burnley scored six points in three games for the Suffolk side and Senegal international 28 years, provided good protection for the back four.

Mark Davies - Bolton Wanderers

Maximize Davies is likely to be a major challenge for the new boss Dougie Freedman and early signs are good for the Trotters. Never comfortable in the midfield two men, 24-year-old was impressive in a 4-2-3-1 formation operating in the former manager of Crystal Palace and scored a good goal to give the advantage Blackpool Bolton at the weekend.

Ikechi Anya - Watford

Romanian striker Scottish descent born in Nigeria had an impressive start first for the Hornets in their dramatic 6-1 win at Leeds on Saturday. Anya began his career at Wycombe before vomiting Celta Vigo in Spain and is currently on loan at Watford in Granada. Vicarage Road faithful will be hoping Anya is finally ready to settle down if you can produce a lot more assists, as he has done for Matej Vydra second goal of the weekend.

Matej Vydra - Watford

The only player to score more than once in the league this weekend, Vydra was a shoo-in for the team because of their contribution to Watford six goals in Leeds brilliant victory. The Czech international before the loan from Udinese, scored seven goals in 13 games for the Hornets and finishing compound for the first goal set the visitors on their way to a remarkable victory.

Jermaine Beckford - Huddersfield Town

Beckford made his return from a hamstring injury at the weekend and could only manage an hour of action in Barnsley - but it was vital. The loan Leicester striker head just to Oakwell for the Terriers win again on the road after two consecutive defeats away. Grayson had Beckford at Leeds and the manager seems to be able to tick before.