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Category: Football

Al Hilal Crowned Saudi Pro League Champions, Ronaldo's Silverware Wait Continues

Al Hilal Crowned Saudi Pro League Champions, Ronaldo’s Silverware Wait Continues

By May 11, 2024 0

Al Hilal Clinches Fourth Saudi Pro League Title in Five Years, Extends Ronaldo’s Silverware Drought

Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al Hilal has secured its fourth Saudi Pro League title in the past five years, extending Cristiano Ronaldo’s wait for silverware in the lucrative competition. The Riyadh-based club sealed the championship with a resounding 4-1 victory over bottom-placed Al Hazm on Saturday, putting them an unassailable 12 points clear of Ronaldo’s Al Nassr with just three matches remaining.

Al Hilal’s triumph marks a remarkable campaign, as they remain unbeaten in 31 league matches and have amassed a record-breaking 34 consecutive wins in all competitions for a top-flight team. The title victory solidifies Al Hilal’s dominance in Saudi football, further cementing their status as the most successful club in the country.

The title race had been highly anticipated due to the arrival of global superstar Cristiano Ronaldo to Al Nassr in January 2023. However, Al Hilal’s consistent performances and unwavering determination proved too much for Ronaldo and his team.

Al Hilal’s success is a testament to the club’s astute management and the brilliance of their Portuguese manager, Jorge Jesus. The club has assembled a formidable squad, boasting a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents.

The Saudi Pro League has witnessed an influx of high-profile players in recent years, including Neymar, Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane, N’Golo Kante, and Riyad Mahrez. These players have been lured by lucrative contracts offered by the Saudi clubs, which are owned by the Public Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth vehicle driving Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification.

Despite the star power at Al Nassr, Al Hilal’s unwavering focus and collective spirit have propelled them to the title. The club will now look to maintain their dominance and add to their trophy cabinet in the years to come.

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Manchester City Thrash Fulham, Burnley Relegated as Title Race Heats Up

Manchester City Thrash Fulham, Burnley Relegated as Title Race Heats Up

By May 11, 2024 0

Manchester City’s relentless pursuit of a fourth consecutive Premier League title gained momentum with a resounding 4-0 victory over Fulham on Saturday. The triumph propelled City two points clear at the summit, intensifying the pressure on Arsenal, who face a daunting trip to Manchester United on Sunday.

Josko Gvardiol, the Croatian defender, continued his remarkable scoring form, opening the scoring for City with a composed finish on his weaker right foot. Pep Guardiola’s side dominated possession but struggled to convert their chances until Phil Foden netted his 25th goal of the season on the hour mark.

Gvardiol then doubled his tally with a close-range finish from Bernardo Silva’s cross, marking his fifth goal in his last seven appearances. The £77 million signing from RB Leipzig could have etched his name in Premier League history with a hat-trick when City were awarded a penalty in stoppage time. However, he selflessly allowed Julian Alvarez to take the spot-kick, who duly converted to complete the rout.

Meanwhile, Burnley’s Premier League fate was sealed with a 2-1 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur. Jacob Bruun Larsen had given the Clarets a shock lead, but Spurs rallied to secure a crucial victory that keeps their Champions League hopes alive. Pedro Porro and Micky Van de Ven scored the goals that condemned Burnley to relegation.

Luton Town’s return to the Championship was confirmed after a 3-1 loss at West Ham United. Albert Sambi Lokonga’s early header had given Luton hope, but second-half strikes from James Ward-Prowse, Tomas Soucek, and George Earthy extinguished their Premier League dreams.

The gulf between the Premier League and the Championship was further exposed as all three promoted clubs face relegation. Forest can confirm Luton’s fate by avoiding defeat at home to Chelsea later on Saturday.

Newcastle United missed the chance to strengthen their grip on European qualification after being held 1-1 by Brighton. Sean Longstaff canceled out Joel Veltman’s opener, but Newcastle remain just three points clear of Chelsea and Manchester United, who have a game in hand.

Crystal Palace’s impressive form under Oliver Glasner continued with a 3-1 win at Wolves. Michael Olise, Jean-Philippe Mateta, and Eberechi Eze were on target for the Eagles, who climbed to 12th in the standings.

Abdoulaye Doucoure scored the only goal as Everton edged out Sheffield United 1-0, while Yoane Wissa’s 95th-minute winner snatched a 2-1 victory for Brentford at Bournemouth.

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Manchester City Surge to Premier League Summit with 4-0 Fulham Rout

Manchester City Surge to Premier League Summit with 4-0 Fulham Rout

By May 11, 2024 0

Manchester City’s relentless pursuit of a fourth consecutive Premier League title reached a crescendo on Saturday as they swept aside Fulham 4-0 at Craven Cottage. Josko Gvardiol’s brace, Phil Foden’s clinical strike, and Julian Alvarez’s late penalty propelled Pep Guardiola’s side to the summit of the standings.

Gvardiol, a Croatian defender, opened the scoring with a composed finish after a flowing 19-pass move. Foden doubled City’s lead in the second half, capitalizing on a tackle that halted Bernardo Silva’s run into the area. Gvardiol then netted his second, stretching to convert Silva’s cross with an agile close-range finish.

Fulham’s hopes of a positive result were dashed when Issa Diop was sent off for fouling Alvarez in the penalty area. The Argentine striker stepped up to convert the spot-kick, sealing a comprehensive victory for City.

With two wins remaining in their title charge, City now hold a two-point advantage over Arsenal. If the Gunners fail to win at Manchester United on Sunday, City will be crowned champions with a victory over Tottenham on Tuesday or West Ham in their final game on May 19.

Guardiola hailed Gvardiol’s unexpected goalscoring prowess, describing him as “unbelievable with both feet.” He also praised his team’s performance, saying, “We played really well and now we recover, then come back to London to play the big final (against Tottenham) to try to retain our title.”

Despite Arsenal’s remaining fixtures, City know that two more victories will secure a remarkable six titles in the last seven seasons. Guardiola emphasized the importance of pressure for his players, saying, “The great players enjoy playing with great pressure. These players in the last few years have been able to do it and we are again in the latter stages.”

City’s 16th successive win against Fulham also mathematically ended Liverpool’s title challenge. Guardiola’s superstitious decision to wear a jumper in the searing heat drew attention, with the Spaniard explaining, “I used this outfit many times so we keep it as it is. Even if it is 45 degrees!”

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AIFF Data Leak: ICC Report and Police Complaint Filed

AIFF Data Leak: ICC Report and Police Complaint Filed

By May 11, 2024 0

AIFF Data Leak: Internal Complaints Committee Report and Police Complaint

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has taken swift action in response to recent reports of a confidential data leak involving its employees. The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) of the AIFF convened a meeting on Friday to investigate the matter.

After thorough deliberations, the ICC concluded that the allegations of confidentiality and IT policy breaches do not fall within its purview. However, the committee emphasized the importance of the AIFF taking prompt action against any such breaches to protect the rights of its staff.

Meanwhile, the AIFF has filed an official complaint with the Cyber Crime Unit of the Delhi Police on May 7th. The federation has pledged its full cooperation with the authorities and expressed confidence that the investigation will yield positive results.

Acting Secretary General M Satyanarayan stated, “We are committed to maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of our staff members. We are taking all necessary steps to resolve this issue. In addition to the ICC meeting, we have filed a complaint with the Cyber Crime Unit, who have assured us of their support.”

The AIFF has reiterated its commitment to upholding the privacy and security of its employees. The federation is determined to take all appropriate measures to prevent and address any breaches of confidentiality or IT policies.

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Girona's Title Hopes Dented by Alaves' Late Equalizer

Girona’s Title Hopes Dented by Alaves’ Late Equalizer

By May 11, 2024 0

Girona’s aspirations of securing the second spot behind La Liga champions Real Madrid suffered a setback on Friday as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Alaves. The match witnessed a dramatic late equalizer from Alaves’ Jon Guridi in the ninth minute of added time.

The match at the Mendizorroza stadium in Vitoria began with a quick start for Girona, with Eric Garcia scoring in just the fourth minute. However, Alaves responded swiftly, with Guridi equalizing eight minutes later. Artem Dovbyk, the league’s leading goalscorer with 20 goals, assisted Yangel Herrera for what seemed to be the winning goal just before halftime.

As the game entered its final stages, Alaves refused to give up. In the dying moments of added time, Guridi struck again, securing a share of the spoils for the home team. The result leaves Girona with 75 points, 12 behind Real Madrid and just two points ahead of Barcelona.

Barcelona, who have a game in hand, can move into second place if they defeat Real Sociedad on Monday. Meanwhile, Real Madrid, fresh from their Champions League triumph over Bayern Munich, will face relegation-threatened Granada on Saturday.

Granada, currently second from bottom, could face relegation before the match against Real Madrid if Real Mallorca, who are 17th, defeat Las Palmas earlier in the day.

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Guardiola Prepares City for Fulham's Long Grass Challenge

Guardiola Prepares City for Fulham’s Long Grass Challenge

By May 11, 2024 0

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has emphasized the importance of adapting to different pitch conditions as his team prepares to face Fulham on Saturday. City, aiming for an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title, are known for their possession-based passing game that thrives on the pristine surfaces of their Etihad Stadium home.

However, Guardiola believes that his side can benefit from slower pitches, as evidenced by their victory at Nottingham Forest last month. He expects a similar challenge at Craven Cottage, where Fulham’s pitch is typically longer and drier.

“We have to adapt like with Nottingham, try to fight back with three points,” Guardiola said. “Yesterday, we trained part of the session with a dry, high (grass) to feel it, to adapt.”

Guardiola compared the situation to tennis, highlighting the different speeds and techniques required on different surfaces. “The passes must be stronger, faster, quicker. The control must attack the ball more,” he explained.

City head to London trailing Arsenal by a point but with a game in hand. The Gunners face Manchester United on Sunday before concluding their campaign against Everton. City play their game in hand at Tottenham in midweek and then face West Ham in their final league match.

Guardiola is confident that his team can overcome any challenges they face, including the potential for a slower pitch at Fulham. “Here we are, one week left to give all we have,” he said. “I don’t know about the grass, last season it was so, so high and dry. We have to adapt.”

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Como Secures Serie A Return After Two-Decade Absence

Como Secures Serie A Return After Two-Decade Absence

By May 11, 2024 0

Como’s long-awaited return to Serie A became a reality on Friday after a 1-1 draw at home to Cosenza secured their promotion as runners-up in Italy’s second tier. The Lombardy club, which last graced the top flight in 2003, will be joined by Serie B champions Parma, who clinched their promotion earlier this month.

Como’s resurgence is a remarkable tale of recovery after multiple bankruptcies and a tumble down the football pyramid following their relegation from Serie A over two decades ago. The club’s fortunes have been transformed since the arrival of former Arsenal teammates Cesc Fabregas and Thierry Henry as minority shareholders, alongside ex-Chelsea midfielder Dennis Wise as a board member.

Como’s return to professional football began with their promotion to Serie C in 2019. Backed by the financial support of Indonesian tobacco giants Djarum, they have swiftly ascended through the divisions. The third promoted club will be determined through play-offs involving teams finishing between third and eighth, including Venezia and Sampdoria.

Como’s promotion is a testament to the club’s resilience and the transformative power of investment. With Fabregas, Henry, and Wise providing guidance and support, the club has regained its place among Italy’s elite. Their return to Serie A is a fitting reward for their unwavering determination and the belief of their investors.

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Kylian Mbappé Confirms PSG Departure, Set for Real Madrid Move

Kylian Mbappé Confirms PSG Departure, Set for Real Madrid Move

By May 10, 2024 0

Kylian Mbappé, the French football sensation, has officially announced his departure from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at the conclusion of the current season. The 25-year-old forward made the revelation in a video posted on social media, confirming his decision to end his five-year tenure with the Parisian giants.

Mbappé’s departure has been the subject of intense speculation for months, with Real Madrid widely considered the frontrunner to secure his services. The Spanish giants have long been admirers of the French international, and his decision to leave PSG has fueled rumors of a potential move to the Santiago Bernabéu.

Mbappé’s announcement comes as PSG prepare to celebrate their 10th Ligue 1 title in the last 12 seasons. The Parisians have already secured the domestic crown and will receive the trophy after their final home game of the campaign against Toulouse on Sunday.

Mbappé’s departure will mark the end of an era for PSG, who have relied heavily on his goalscoring prowess since his arrival from Monaco in 2017. The Frenchman has been a key figure in the club’s recent successes, helping them win four Ligue 1 titles, three Coupe de France trophies, and two Coupe de la Ligue titles.

Mbappé’s decision to leave PSG is a significant development in the world of football. The French forward is one of the most sought-after players in the game, and his departure from the Parc des Princes will undoubtedly have a major impact on the transfer market.

While Mbappé has not yet confirmed his next destination, it is widely believed that he will join Real Madrid. The Spanish giants have been pursuing the Frenchman for several years, and his decision to leave PSG has paved the way for a potential move to the Spanish capital.

Mbappé’s departure from PSG will be a major loss for the French champions, but it also represents an exciting new chapter in his career. The 25-year-old is one of the most talented players in the world, and his move to Real Madrid could potentially elevate him to even greater heights.

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Haaland's Resurgence Powers City's Title Charge

Haaland’s Resurgence Powers City’s Title Charge

By May 10, 2024 0

Erling Haaland’s resurgence has propelled Manchester City back into the Premier League title race, with the Norwegian striker scoring seven goals in four league matches since the end of March.

After a frustrating draw against Arsenal in late March, City had failed to score at home in the league for the first time since October 2021. Haaland had also endured a three-match goal drought, leading to criticism from former Manchester United captain Roy Keane.

However, City has since won four consecutive league games, leaving them one point behind leaders Arsenal with a game in hand. Haaland has been central to this resurgence, bagging a hat-trick in a 5-1 rout of Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend.

Haaland’s four goals against Wolves made him the third player in Premier League history to score two first-half hat-tricks, after Andrew Cole and Michael Owen. He converted from the penalty spot twice and scored a stunning header from Rodri’s cross.

“That’s a beautiful goal. My father [Alf-Inge Haaland, who played for City] is going to be happy with that one,” Haaland said. “A nice celebration, I enjoyed that one. We keep going.”

Haaland’s goalscoring exploits have silenced his critics, who had questioned his form this season. Despite missing nearly two months with a foot injury, he has now scored 36 goals in all competitions, including six in the Champions League.

“Twenty-five goals [in the league] is not bad,” said Haaland. “We’ve got a not-so-bad manager who pushes me. I try to develop every day. I had some problems [this season] but let’s not focus on them.”

Haaland’s partnership with Kevin De Bruyne has been crucial to City’s success. “I try to do the same runs with everyone, but with him I know I’m going to get it perfect. I know the ball is going to come,” said Haaland.

Guardiola has often spoken about the difference between players who “help you play better” and those “who win games.” Haaland and De Bruyne belong to the latter category.

“It’s simple. They are players that win games by themselves. When one player scores 60 goals, you win games,” said Guardiola. “When a player makes a thousand million assists and goals, it helps you to win games. You don’t have to study at Harvard or Yale to understand that.”

With three more wins required, City is on course for an unprecedented fourth successive Premier League crown. As Haaland put it, “We’ve got four finals [three league games and the FA Cup final] left for our season. We’re on a mission. Now focus on the next one.”

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Super League Kerala Unveils Six Franchises with Star-Studded Owners

Super League Kerala Unveils Six Franchises with Star-Studded Owners

By May 10, 2024 0

The Super League Kerala (SLK), a highly anticipated football league, has unveiled its six franchises at a grand event in Kochi. The league boasts an impressive roster of owners, including prominent figures from the sports, business, and royal circles.

Among the notable owners is Mahesh Bhupathi, the tennis legend and CEO of SGSE, the sports and entertainment arm of the APL Apollo Group. Bhupathi is the owner of Kochi Pipers FC. Another prominent owner is Kaz Patafta, the former Benfica player and current chairman of Australian A-League club Brisbane Roar FC. Patafta is among the owners of Thrissur Roar FC.

The Travancore Princess Gowri Lakshmi Bayi and Dr. Mohamed Ilyas Sahadulla, CMD of KIMS Hospital, are the co-owners of Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC. M.P. Hassan Kunhi, Director of Kannur International Airport, is among the owners of Kannur Squad FC. V.A. Ajmal Bismi, MD of Bismi Group, is the owner of Malappuram FC. V.K. Mathews, tech entrepreneur and Chairman of IBS Group, is the owner of Calicut FC.

The SLK will feature six clubs: Kochi Pipers FC, Thrissur Roar FC, Malappuram FC, Calicut FC, Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC, and Kannur Squad FC. The inaugural edition of the league will commence in September.

The league will be played at three venues: Kochi’s Nehru Stadium, Kozhikode’s EMS Corporation Stadium, and Malappuram’s Payyanad Stadium in Manjeri. The Kerala Football Association (KFA) and Scoreline Sports, the organizers of the SLK, are working to secure three additional stadiums so that each team can have its own home ground.

Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman has assured that the Government will offer all Government-owned grounds for tournaments organized by the KFA. KFA president Navas Meeran expressed optimism that the league will provide a platform for Kerala’s talented footballers to showcase their skills and potentially secure opportunities to play for foreign clubs.

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