Italy, France, England, Austria, and Norway Secure Nations League Quarterfinal Berths

Italy, France, England, Austria, and Norway Secure Nations League Quarterfinal Berths

Italy secured their place in the Nations League quarter-finals with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Belgium in Brussels. The visitors dominated the early stages and took the lead after 11 minutes when Sandro Tonali tapped in a deflected cross from Giovanni Di Lorenzo. Belgium pressed for an equalizer but could only manage a second-half header from Wout Faes that hit the post.

Meanwhile, France’s qualification was confirmed despite a lackluster 0-0 draw with Israel in Paris. The hosts struggled to create chances against a resolute Israeli defense, managing only 25 attempts on goal. Israel’s goalkeeper, Daniel Peretz, made two diving saves in the second half to deny Warren Zaire-Emery and Christopher Nkunku.

In Athens, England’s interim coach Lee Carsley enjoyed an emphatic 3-0 victory over Greece. Ollie Watkins replaced Harry Kane and justified his selection with a goal after seven minutes. Jude Bellingham forced the second goal after 78 minutes, with Curtis Jones adding a third five minutes later. England and Greece are level on points but England’s superior goal difference puts them top of the group.

Austria and Norway also secured wins in Group B3. Austria defeated Kazakhstan 2-0, while Norway beat Slovenia 4-1. Erling Haaland scored once for Norway, who are now level on points with Austria but trail on goal difference.

France, Italy, Portugal Eye UEFA Nations League Quarterfinals

France, Italy, Portugal Eye UEFA Nations League Quarterfinals

France, Italy, and Portugal are poised to secure their spots in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, while England’s hopes of promotion have been dampened by a string of withdrawals.

Italy and Portugal need only a point to advance, while France is well-positioned ahead of their match against Israel on Thursday. However, the fixture has been overshadowed by security concerns following clashes in Amsterdam during a match between Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv and Dutch team Ajax.

Israel has urged fans to avoid the Nations League tie due to fears of anti-Jewish and anti-Muslim abuse amid the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. France defender Dayot Upamecano expressed understanding for the fans’ decision but emphasized his focus on the game.

Kylian Mbappe is once again absent from the France squad, with coach Didier Deschamps stating that the decision is “for the best.” Mbappe has been under investigation for an alleged rape, which he has denied.

After the Israel match, France will face Group A leaders Italy in Milan on Sunday. Italy needs only to avoid defeat against Belgium to secure a quarter-final berth.

Portugal will host Poland and then travel to Croatia in Group A1, where Scotland is struggling at the bottom of the table. The Netherlands and Hungary will meet in a crucial A3 showdown, while Germany can wrap up top spot by beating Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Denmark and Serbia will battle it out for the other qualifying spot in Group A4 alongside Spain. The Danes host Spain and Serbia go to Switzerland before a potentially decisive clash in Leskovac on November 18.

England must beat Greece in Athens to stay in contention for promotion back to the top tier. Greece has a perfect record in League B and won 2-1 at Wembley last month. Interim England boss Lee Carsley will be without several key players for the match.

Georgia can become the first team to climb from League D to League A since the Nations League began in 2018 if they beat Ukraine and Czech Republic in Group B1. San Marino, who earned their first-ever competitive win in September, could make the leap to League C by defeating Gibraltar on Friday.

Teams finishing third in League A and second in League B will face off in relegation/promotion play-offs, with identical play-offs between Leagues B and C. The Nations League also has an impact on World Cup qualifying, with the 12 group winners in European qualifying going to the World Cup and another four places going to winners of play-offs.

Italy Squander 2-0 Lead to Draw with Belgium After Pellegrini Red Card

Italy Squander 2-0 Lead to Draw with Belgium After Pellegrini Red Card

Italy’s Nations League campaign took a disappointing turn on Thursday as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Belgium in Brussels. Despite taking an early 2-0 lead, the Azzurri were unable to hold on after Lorenzo Pellegrini’s red card sparked a Belgian comeback.

Italy’s lightning-fast start saw them score within the opening minute. Federico Di Marco’s low cross found Andrea Cambiaso, whose initial shot was saved by Koen Casteels. However, Cambiaso was on hand to bundle in the rebound. The Azzurri doubled their advantage in the 24th minute when Di Marco’s volleyed cross was met by Cambiaso. Casteels denied Cambiaso a second goal, but Mateo Retegui pounced on the loose ball to make it 2-0.

Italy’s momentum was halted in the 55th minute when Pellegrini was sent off for a reckless challenge on Zeno Debast. The VAR review confirmed the decision, leaving Italy with 10 men. Belgium seized the opportunity, with Maxim De Cuyper reducing the deficit with a curling shot from the edge of the box.

The Red Devils continued to press, and their efforts were rewarded in the 61st minute. Leandro Trossard poked home from close range to level the scores. Italy struggled to create chances with a man down, and Belgium held on for a hard-fought draw.

The result leaves Italy in third place in Group 2 of Nations League A, behind Belgium and Spain. The Azzurri will face Spain in their next match on Sunday, while Belgium will take on Poland.

Italy Dominates Davis Cup Group Stage, Secures Final 8 Spot

Italy Dominates Davis Cup Group Stage, Secures Final 8 Spot

Italy’s Davis Cup triumph in Bologna was a resounding success, with the defending champions securing their spot in the Final 8 in Malaga, Spain. Despite the absence of Jannik Sinner, who was recovering from his historic US Open victory, the Italian team showcased their dominance in the Group Stage.

Matteo Berrettini, Italy’s top player, led the charge with three impressive victories. He overcame Botic van de Zandschulp, Carlos Alcaraz’s conqueror at the US Open, in a thrilling three-set battle. Berrettini also defeated Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca and Belgian Alexander Blockx in straight sets.

Flavio Cobolli played a crucial role in Italy’s success, securing the winning point against Tallon Griekspoor in another three-set encounter. Cobolli’s victory clinched the tie for Italy, who won all three of their matches in the Group Stage.

Italy’s triumph is a testament to their depth and resilience. They have now won all three of their Davis Cup ties this year, including victories over Brazil and Belgium. Their success is a continuation of their historic victory in 2021, when they captured the title for the first time in 47 years.

Sinner, who played a pivotal role in Italy’s 2021 triumph, was on hand to support his teammates in Bologna. His presence was a reminder of the team’s strength and the high expectations they have for the Final 8.

Italy will face stiff competition in the Knock-Out Stage, with Spain, Australia, the United States, Germany, Canada, and Argentina all qualifying for the Final 8. However, the Italians will be confident in their ability to defend their title and continue their dominance in the Davis Cup.

Italy Fans Protest Israel's National Anthem in Hungary

Italy Fans Protest Israel’s National Anthem in Hungary

Italy Fans Protest Israel’s National Anthem in Hungary

During a Nations League match in Hungary, approximately 50 Italy fans clad in black staged a protest by turning their backs and holding up an Italian flag emblazoned with the word “Liberta” (Freedom). The fans also displayed banners with black slashes, a symbol of their opposition.

The protest stems from Israel’s decision to relocate its home games to Hungary due to the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who maintains close ties with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has promoted Hungary as a safe haven for Jews in Europe. Orbán has also banned Palestinian solidarity protests, citing concerns about public safety.

The same group of Italy fans who protested during the anthem also chanted against Italian anti-fascist activist Ilaria Salis during the first half. Salis was recently released from house arrest in Budapest after facing charges for allegedly assaulting far-right demonstrators. Her release came after she was elected to the European Parliament as a member of the Italian Green and Left Alliance.

Salis has become a polarizing figure in Italy, with images of her handcuffed and shackled in a Hungarian courtroom sparking outrage.

The Israel-Italy match was held at Bozsik Arena in Budapest, while Belgium’s 3-1 victory over Israel on Friday took place in Debrecen, Hungary. The Belgian soccer federation had previously stated that no local authority in Belgium felt it was safe to host a game against Israel due to security concerns.

Italy is scheduled to host Israel in Udine on October 14, but the city council has not endorsed the match. A pro-Palestinian protest has been planned for the same day in Udine.

Italy Soar to Top of Nations League Group with Israel Victory

Italy Soar to Top of Nations League Group with Israel Victory

Italy’s resurgence continued on Monday as they secured a hard-fought 2-1 Nations League victory over Israel in Budapest. The Azzurri, seeking redemption after their disappointing Euro 2024 campaign, now sit atop Group A2 with a perfect six points.

Davide Frattesi opened the scoring in the 38th minute, capitalizing on Federico Dimarco’s precise cross. Israel had a golden opportunity to equalize just after halftime, but Sagiv Jehezkel squandered a close-range chance.

Moise Kean sealed the victory for Italy in the 62nd minute, scoring his first international goal in nearly three years. Mohamed Abu Fani’s late strike for Israel proved to be a mere consolation.

Luciano Spalletti’s team has responded admirably to their Euro 2024 disappointment, showcasing a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Their victory over Israel, coupled with France’s triumph over Belgium, has propelled them to the summit of their group.

The match was played in a subdued atmosphere at the Bozsik Arena, with only 2,000 fans in attendance due to security concerns in Israel. A small group of Italy supporters turned their backs to the pitch during Israel’s national anthem, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region.

Despite the subdued atmosphere, Italy controlled the tempo of the game and deserved their victory. They will now look to maintain their momentum when they face England in a friendly on Friday.

Italy Stuns US to Claim Women's Volleyball Gold at Paris Olympics

Italy Stuns US to Claim Women’s Volleyball Gold at Paris Olympics

Italy’s women’s volleyball team has etched its name in Olympic history by capturing the gold medal at the Paris Olympics, dethroning the defending champion United States in a resounding straight-sets victory (25-18, 25-20, 25-17).

The triumph marks Italy’s first-ever Olympic medal in volleyball and sends the Americans home with a disappointing silver after their historic gold in Tokyo. It’s a monumental achievement for the Italians, who had previously only managed a fifth-place finish at the Olympics.

The victory unfolded before a raucous crowd at South Paris Arena, where fans from both nations waved their flags and cheered enthusiastically. The Italians dominated the match from the outset, showcasing their exceptional teamwork and skill.

When Italy secured the match point, the players erupted in jubilation, collapsing to the court and embracing in a celebratory scrum. Veteran Monica De Gennaro, a four-time Olympian, was hoisted into the air by her teammates.

The US team, led by coach Karch Kiraly, had made a lineup change after a setback against China in the group stage, but it proved insufficient to overcome the formidable Italian squad.

Italy’s Paola Egonu was a standout performer, scoring 22 points and leading her team to a dominant victory. The Americans, despite a valiant effort, were unable to match the Italians’ consistency and precision.

The silver medal for the US marks their seventh Olympic medal in volleyball, making them the most successful nation in the sport. Italy’s triumph over Turkey in the semifinals and the US’s thrilling five-set victory over Brazil set the stage for the highly anticipated final.

Italy’s victory is a testament to their unwavering determination and the exceptional talent of their players. They have proven themselves to be a force to be reckoned with in women’s volleyball and have etched their names in the annals of Olympic history.

Russian Tennis Duo Wins Silver as Neutral Athletes at Paris Olympics

Russian Tennis Duo Wins Silver as Neutral Athletes at Paris Olympics

At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Mirra Andreeva and Diana Shnaider of Russia made history by becoming the first athletes from their country to win a medal, albeit as Individual Neutral Athletes (AINs) due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The duo claimed silver in women’s doubles, losing to Italy’s Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini in a thrilling match tiebreaker.

Andreeva and Shnaider’s achievement marks a significant moment for Russian athletes, who have been banned from competing as a team at the Paris Games. Despite the political turmoil, the pair remained focused on their tennis, showcasing their exceptional skills and determination.

“I’m not going to answer anything about politics here,” Shnaider stated at the post-match press conference. “I’m here to talk about tennis.”

The AIN athletes are prohibited from displaying any national symbols or flags on their uniforms. Andreeva and Shnaider wore plain white outfits, devoid of any markings related to Russia.

“For me, honestly, it doesn’t matter,” Andreeva said when asked about competing as AINs. “I just go out there, I play, and I fight.”

Prior to Andreeva and Shnaider’s success, Ivan Litvinovich and Viyaleta Bardzilouskaya of Belarus had won the first medals for AIN athletes in trampoline. Litvinovich claimed gold for the men, while Bardzilouskaya secured silver for the women. Yauheni Zalati, also from Belarus, added a silver in rowing.

Andreeva, at 17, became the second-youngest player to win an Olympic tennis medal, following Jennifer Capriati’s gold in 1992. Shnaider, 20, played college tennis at North Carolina State before teaming up with Andreeva for the first time in doubles.

Errani and Paolini’s victory marked Italy’s first tennis gold medal at any Summer Olympics. Lorenzo Musetti had previously won bronze in men’s singles.

Errani, 37, completed a career Golden Slam by adding the Olympic gold to her five Grand Slam doubles titles. Paolini, meanwhile, is enjoying her best season as a professional, having reached the finals in singles at the French Open and Wimbledon.

Spain’s Cristina Bucsa and Sara Sorribes Tormo claimed bronze by defeating Karolina Muchova and Linda Noskova of the Czech Republic.

Lesia Tsurenko: Italy, a Sanctuary for a Ukrainian Tennis Star

Lesia Tsurenko: Italy, a Sanctuary for a Ukrainian Tennis Star

Lesia Tsurenko, the 34-year-old Ukrainian tennis star, has a deep affinity for Italy that extends beyond its culinary delights. Her connection to the country dates back to her impressive performance in the 2012 Billie Jean King Cup, where she earned both points for Ukraine against Italy.

Tsurenko’s bond with Italy grew stronger under the guidance of Italian coach Adriano Albanesi, who helped her achieve notable results, including a quarterfinal berth at the 2018 US Open. Amidst the ongoing war in her homeland, Tsurenko has found solace and sanctuary in Italy, where she trains at the Piatti Tennis Center.

“I enjoy every second,” Tsurenko said. “I enjoy my beautiful morning coffee and the view that I have in Liguira, where I live. It’s just amazing to have this feeling and be able to relax and calm down.”

This sense of tranquility aided her in her hard-fought victory over Donna Vekic in the first round of the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. Despite Vekic’s formidable serve, Tsurenko’s resilience and determination prevailed in a two-hour, 39-minute battle.

“I’m so jealous of the serve that Donna has!” Tsurenko exclaimed. “She’s serving unbelievably good, and it’s so tough because you don’t have a rhythm to play against someone like her.”

Tsurenko’s next challenge will be against fellow Ukrainian Anhelina Kalinina, who holds a special place in her heart for Italy as the 2023 Rome finalist. Tsurenko hopes to draw inspiration from the tournament’s unique atmosphere and the Italian delicacies she has come to love.

“This tournament, if you look around, you’ll see trees and statues, and I think just everything makes this tournament so special,” Tsurenko said. “All the players enjoy food, and all of the players enjoy touristic mode because all of the hotels are in the center of the city … and you can enjoy the time off [from] the tournament.”

Robinho Arrested in Brazil to Serve Rape Sentence

Robinho Arrested in Brazil to Serve Rape Sentence

Former Manchester City and Real Madrid star Robinho has been arrested in Brazil to serve a nine-year sentence for raping a woman in 2013. The arrest comes after the Supreme Court rejected his request to delay the sentence.

Robinho was found guilty by an Italian court in 2017 of participating in the gang rape of an Albanian woman in Milan. He lost an appeal in 2020 and had his sentence upheld by Italy’s highest court in 2022.

As Brazil does not extradite its nationals, Italy requested that Robinho serve his sentence in his home country. A court in Brasilia agreed, and on Thursday, court president Maria Thereza de Assis Moura signed a document paving the way for an arrest warrant.

Robinho’s lawyers had filed a request to the Supreme Court to allow him to remain free while challenging the latest court decision, but it was rejected. He was arrested at his luxury condominium in Guaruja, near Santos, and will be taken to a prison in Tremembe.

Robinho has denied the charges and claimed the sex was consensual. However, the complaint alleges that he and his co-accused made the victim drink to the point of unconsciousness and then had sexual relations with her multiple times.

The case has sparked criticism over the failure of football authorities in Brazil to condemn violence against women. Palmeiras president Leila Pereira has lashed out at the football world for its silence on the twin rape convictions of Robinho and former Barcelona defender Dani Alves.

Robinho’s arrest marks a dramatic fall from grace for the former star, who was once touted as the successor to the golden generation of Brazilian players. He has 100 Brazil caps and 28 goals for his country.

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