Wishlist0
0
Continue Shopping

 +91 91155 12977

Home / News / Football (Page 61)

Category: Football

Sister-in-Law of South Korean Star Hwang Ui-jo Jailed for Blackmail

Sister-in-Law of South Korean Star Hwang Ui-jo Jailed for Blackmail

By March 14, 2024 0

Hwang Ui-jo’s Sister-in-Law Sentenced for Blackmail and Privacy Violation

South Korean international Hwang Ui-jo’s sister-in-law has been sentenced to three years in prison for posting explicit videos of the footballer online and attempting to blackmail him. The defendant, who remains unnamed, shared the videos on social media while posing as an ex-girlfriend accusing Hwang of infidelity.

The release of the videos prompted a separate police investigation into the Nottingham Forest striker, focusing on whether the sexual encounters were filmed illegally without consent. Hwang has vehemently denied the allegations, and prosecutors have yet to clear or formally charge him.

According to the Seoul Central District Court, the defendant posted the videos “knowing it would be disseminated indiscriminately.” The court emphasized the severity of the crime, stating that the content had been widely distributed both domestically and internationally.

The three-year sentence was one year less than the prosecution’s demand. The court considered the defendant’s acknowledgment of the crime and Hwang’s plea for leniency. In her final testimony, the defendant expressed remorse, saying, “I have caused great harm to the victims and I sincerely regret what I have done.”

Hwang, 31, is currently on loan from Forest to Turkish club Alanyaspor. Despite scoring in a World Cup qualifier against Singapore in November, he has been suspended from the national squad by the Korea Football Association pending the outcome of the investigation. The suspension prevented him from participating in the Asian Cup in Qatar.

Hwang has made 62 appearances for South Korea, scoring 19 goals. The ongoing investigation and legal proceedings have cast a shadow over his career and reputation.

Categories: Football
Read more
India Eyes World Cup Qualifying History in Afghanistan Clash

India Eyes World Cup Qualifying History in Afghanistan Clash

By March 14, 2024 0

India’s football team is gearing up for their crucial World Cup qualifying matches against Afghanistan, with the aim of securing a spot in the third phase of the qualifiers for the first time. Coach Igor Stimac emphasized the team’s determination to win the upcoming games and progress to the next round.

India will face Afghanistan in back-to-back matches as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2027 AFC Asian Cup joint qualifiers round 2. The first match will be held in Abha, Saudi Arabia on March 21, while the second will take place in Guwahati, India on March 26.

Stimac acknowledged the team’s disappointing performance at the AFC Asian Cup in January, but stressed that their focus is now on the upcoming qualifiers. “We are not a club that can work with the players on a daily basis,” he said. “The expectations were high without any base.”

India currently stands level on three points with Kuwait in Group A, but has an inferior goal difference. A top-two finish in their group will guarantee progression to Round 3 of the qualifiers, which will also ensure direct qualification for the AFC Asian Cup 2027.

Stimac highlighted the challenges of playing in Abha, which is located at a high altitude of 2,270 meters. “Afghanistan did everything to make it difficult for us,” he said. “Choosing Abha as their home venue was a clever decision.”

Despite the challenges, Stimac expressed confidence in his team’s ability to overcome the obstacles and secure a positive result. “We are going there with a clear mindset, and we’re looking for the points,” he said. “Most of our boys are in decent form at their clubs, and hopefully we can overcome all difficulties and find a way to manage the game in a positive way.”

The Indian team is set to travel to Abha on a chartered plane for their first match against Afghanistan. Stimac believes that the team has the potential to make history by reaching Round 3 of the qualifiers for the first time. “They all have the same dream, so we don’t need to inject any motivation into them,” he said. “We have never made it to Round 3 before, and if we do that, it will then give them new dreams, to qualify for the World Cup in the future.”

Categories: Football
Read more
Odisha FC's AFC Cup Journey Ends with Goalless Draw

Odisha FC’s AFC Cup Journey Ends with Goalless Draw

By March 14, 2024 0

Indian Super League club Odisha FC’s hopes of reaching the Inter-Zone final of the AFC Cup were dashed after a goalless draw in the home leg against Australia’s Central Coast Mariners in Bhubaneswar on Thursday.

Having lost the first leg 4-0 to the A-League side, Odisha FC needed a remarkable comeback to progress. However, they failed to capitalize on the home advantage and conceded the tie 0-4 on aggregate.

The Mariners, who traveled to India with a comfortable cushion, started brightly. Ronald Barcellos and Angel Torres had early chances but were denied by Odisha goalkeeper Amrinder Singh.

Central Coast was awarded a penalty in the first half when Ryan Edmondson was brought down by Carlos Delgado. However, Mikael Doka’s spot-kick was saved by Amrinder.

The visitors continued to control possession but lacked the dominance they displayed in the first leg. Odisha defender Mourtada Fall cleared Max Balard’s free-kick under pressure from Edmondson, while the Englishman missed a volley in a promising position.

In the final quarter, Christian Theoharous had a shot saved by Amrinder, and Miguel Di Pizio’s late effort was deflected wide.

Odisha FC’s elimination from the AFC Cup marks a disappointing end to their continental campaign. The Indian club had reached the group stage for the first time this season but failed to make a significant impact.

Categories: Football
Read more
De Bruyne Out of Belgium Squad for Friendlies Due to Groin Injury

De Bruyne Out of Belgium Squad for Friendlies Due to Groin Injury

By March 14, 2024 0

Manchester City’s midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne has been omitted from the Belgium squad for upcoming friendlies against Ireland and England due to a persistent groin issue. Belgium coach Domenico Tedesco confirmed the news on Thursday, citing concerns over De Bruyne’s fitness ahead of the European Championship this summer.

De Bruyne has endured a challenging season, having undergone hamstring surgery in August after sustaining an injury on the opening day of the Premier League. The Belgian international was sidelined for nearly five months, and since his return in January, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has carefully managed his workload.

Guardiola opted to rest De Bruyne for the match against Brentford on February 20 due to lingering hamstring discomfort. While De Bruyne made a substitute appearance in the subsequent victory over Bournemouth, he has since started three of City’s last four games. However, his substitution in the 69th minute of the 1-1 draw with Liverpool on Sunday raised concerns about his fitness.

Tedesco explained that De Bruyne’s groin injury has been a concern in recent matches. After consulting with the team doctor and De Bruyne himself, the decision was made to prioritize his recovery and rehabilitation with Manchester City.

“If the risk of an injury is too high, it’s our responsibility to say it’s better to protect him,” Tedesco said. “And then to have him ready for the Euros. We can’t take risks at this moment with any player, especially not with Kevin.”

Belgium’s preparations for Euro 2024 will continue with friendlies against Ireland on March 23 and England at Wembley Stadium three days later. However, De Bruyne’s absence will be a significant blow to the Red Devils, who will be looking to build momentum ahead of the tournament.

Categories: Football
Read more
Premier League Title Race Heats Up as Arsenal, Liverpool, and City Battle for Glory

Premier League Title Race Heats Up as Arsenal, Liverpool, and City Battle for Glory

By March 14, 2024 0

The Premier League title race is poised for a thrilling conclusion, with Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City separated by just one point with 10 rounds remaining. The battle is further intensified by the teams’ ongoing success in European competitions.

Arsenal secured a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Porto to reach the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in 14 years. City, the defending champions, have already advanced to the last eight, while Liverpool are on the verge of qualifying for the Europa League quarters.

Domestically, the trio has established a significant gap over the rest of the league. Arsenal and Liverpool are tied at the top, with City trailing by a single point. Aston Villa, in fourth place, are eight points behind City.

The European fixtures will undoubtedly test the teams’ squad depth. In terms of quality, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City are closely matched, but the final stretch of the season often hinges on character.

Arsenal’s recent form has been impressive, with a nine-game winning streak that includes a victory over Liverpool. However, they face a daunting schedule, including clashes with City, Villa, Chelsea, Tottenham, and Manchester United.

Liverpool, despite missing out on the Champions League last season, have bounced back under Jurgen Klopp. The German’s impending departure at the end of the season could provide added motivation for the players.

Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola, remain a formidable force. They have won the Premier League five times in the past six seasons and are determined to add another title to their collection.

The title race promises to be a captivating affair, with each team possessing strengths and weaknesses. Arsenal’s resilience, Liverpool’s determination, and City’s experience will all be crucial factors in determining the eventual winner.

Categories: Football
Read more
Messi and Suarez Lead Inter Miami to CONCACAF Champions Cup Triumph

Messi and Suarez Lead Inter Miami to CONCACAF Champions Cup Triumph

By March 14, 2024 0

Inter Miami’s star-studded duo, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, once again proved their dominance as they led their team to a resounding 3-1 victory over Nashville in the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16. The win secured a 5-3 aggregate triumph for the hosts in Florida.

Suarez opened the scoring early on, capitalizing on a clever pass from Jordi Alba and a sensational through ball from Messi. The Argentine maestro doubled the lead 15 minutes later, receiving a pass from Diego Gomez and firing it home with precision.

Inter Miami maintained their 2-0 advantage at halftime, and Robert Taylor extended their lead in the 63rd minute. Messi, who was substituted in the 50th minute, had already made his mark on the game.

Nashville’s consolation goal came in stoppage time through Sam Surridge, but it was too little, too late. The visitors had held Inter Miami to a 2-2 draw in the first leg, but the second leg proved to be a one-sided affair.

Despite Messi’s absence in the second half, Nashville struggled to create clear-cut chances. Drake Callender made a crucial save to deny Lukas MacNaughton, while Hany Mukhtar had a goal disallowed for offside.

This was the fourth time Nashville had faced Messi since his arrival at Inter Miami. They had previously played to three draws, including a 10-9 penalty shootout victory for Miami in the 2023 Leagues Cup final. Messi scored early in regulation and converted the first penalty kick in that match, helping Miami secure their first trophy.

Categories: Football
Read more
Dortmund Cruise into Champions League Quarterfinals with PSV Victory

Dortmund Cruise into Champions League Quarterfinals with PSV Victory

By March 14, 2024 0

Borussia Dortmund secured their place in the Champions League quarterfinals with a convincing 2-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the second leg of their last 16 tie. Jadon Sancho’s early strike and Marco Reus’ late goal sealed the deal for the German giants, who advanced with a 3-1 aggregate scoreline.

Dortmund, who reached the final in 2013, are back in the last eight for the first time in three years. They started the match with an impressive display, dominating possession and creating several chances. Sancho opened the scoring in the third minute, capitalizing on a precise pass from Julian Brandt to slot the ball into the bottom left corner.

The home team continued to press forward, with Niclas Füllkrug and Donyell Malen missing good opportunities to extend their lead. PSV, however, gradually grew into the game and began to threaten Dortmund’s goal. Gregor Kobel made several crucial saves to keep the visitors at bay.

After the break, PSV emerged with renewed vigor, but Dortmund remained resolute in defense. Sancho was forced off injured in the 71st minute, but Reus came on in his place and made an immediate impact. He delivered a free kick that Füllkrug headed home, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR check.

PSV captain Luuk de Jong missed a golden opportunity to equalize, while Kobel continued to deny the Dutch side. In the dying minutes, Reus sealed the win with a clinical finish, sending Dortmund into the quarterfinals with a comfortable margin.

Dortmund coach Edin Terzić praised his team’s performance in the first half but expressed disappointment with their second-half display. “We’re looking forward to the next round because a big opponent awaits us,” said Niclas Füllkrug, referring to Friday’s quarterfinal draw.

Categories: Football
Read more
Atletico Madrid Reach Champions League Quarterfinals After Penalty Shootout Win Over Inter Milan

Atletico Madrid Reach Champions League Quarterfinals After Penalty Shootout Win Over Inter Milan

By March 14, 2024 0

Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid overcame a 1-0 first-leg deficit to defeat Inter Milan 3-2 on penalties and advance to the Champions League quarterfinals. The match at the Metropolitano Stadium was a tense affair, with both teams creating chances throughout.

Inter took the lead in the 33rd minute through Federico Dimarco, but Atletico equalized just two minutes later with Antoine Griezmann’s goal. The match remained level until the 87th minute, when Memphis Depay scored a dramatic winner for Atletico.

In the penalty shootout, Jan Oblak saved two penalties, while Lautaro Martínez missed the final kick for Inter. Memphis Depay, Rodrigo Riquelme, and Ángel Correa converted their penalties for Atletico, while Hakan Calhanoglu and Francesco Acerbi scored for Inter.

Simeone was visibly emotional after the victory, shedding tears as he watched the Atletico fans celebrate. “It was moving,” he said. “I’m happy for the players and for the fans. We are among the best eight teams in Europe again. That tells a lot about this club.”

Oblak was the hero for Atletico, making two crucial saves in the penalty shootout. “In the end it’s a bit about luck in the shootout,” he said. “Because you have to choose the correct side and you have to make the stop. If the player takes the kick perfectly, it’s impossible to stop it. Gladly, I was able to make the saves. What matters is the victory and that we made it to the quarterfinals.”

Inter coach Simone Inzaghi was disappointed with the result but praised his team’s performance. “We must be proud of what we did in this Champions League,” he said. “In the second half we should have done better. In extra time we had more energy but unfortunately we made too many mistakes.”

The eight teams in the draw for the quarterfinals are Atletico, Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Arsenal, and Barcelona.

Categories: Football
Read more
AFC Demands Evidence in Corruption Allegations Against AIFF President

AFC Demands Evidence in Corruption Allegations Against AIFF President

By March 13, 2024 0

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has taken cognizance of the corruption allegations leveled against All India Football Federation (AIFF) President Kalyan Chaubey by the organization’s former legal head, Nilanjan Bhattacharjee. The AFC has requested Bhattacharjee to submit a detailed written report outlining his allegations and supporting evidence by March 18, 2024.

Bhattacharjee, in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accused Chaubey of involvement in non-transparent tender processes and attempts to misappropriate federation funds for personal expenses. Chaubey has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them “baseless” and accusing Bhattacharjee of attempting to damage his reputation.

The AFC’s intervention highlights the seriousness of the allegations and the potential impact on Indian football’s reputation. Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia has also weighed in, calling for Chaubey’s resignation and new elections to clean up the AIFF administration.

Bhattacharjee has remained steadfast in his position, claiming that he refused to sign a “lopsided” agreement with Indigo Airlines during his tenure, which would have provided a minimum guarantee of Rs 7 crore for content creation rights without any incentive for Indian football.

Chaubey has provided a point-by-point rebuttal to Bhattacharjee’s allegations, but Bhattacharjee has vowed to submit all his evidence to the AFC. He has also invited others concerned about Indian football to share any information they may have.

The AFC’s investigation could have significant consequences for Indian football. If the allegations are substantiated, it could lead to sanctions against the AIFF and damage the reputation of the sport in the country. The outcome of the investigation will be closely watched by all stakeholders in Indian football.

Categories: Football
Read more
Al Hilal Sets World Record with 28th Consecutive Victory

Al Hilal Sets World Record with 28th Consecutive Victory

By March 13, 2024 0

Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal has etched its name in football history by setting a new world record for consecutive victories. The Riyadh-based club extended its winning streak to an astonishing 28 matches, surpassing the previous record of 27 held by Welsh team The New Saints.

Al Hilal’s remarkable run culminated in a 2-0 triumph over fellow Saudi side Al Ittihad in the quarter-finals of the Asian Champions League. The victory propelled them into the semi-finals with a 4-0 aggregate score.

The match was a tense affair, with Al Ittihad posing a significant threat despite missing key players like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante. However, Al Hilal’s resilience and attacking prowess proved too much for their opponents.

Yasser Al Shahrani broke the deadlock in the 61st minute, capitalizing on a pass from Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. Brazilian forward Malcom sealed the victory deep into injury time, securing a memorable night for the Riyadh giants.

Al Hilal’s dominance has been evident throughout their Champions League campaign, as they have won their last nine matches. They are also the most successful team in the competition’s history, having lifted the trophy four times.

Meanwhile, South Korea’s Ulsan also advanced to the semi-finals with a 1-0 victory over Jeonbuk Motors. Seol Young-woo’s first-half volley proved decisive in a tense encounter between the two K-League powerhouses.

Ulsan’s victory brings them closer to a place in next year’s expanded Club World Cup, which will feature 32 teams in the United States. They will face either Japan’s Yokohama F-Marinos or China’s Shandong Taishan in the semi-finals.

Categories: Football
Read more
Main Menu
Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart