Chelsea 1-3 Man Utd

Manchester United inflicted their first defeat on Chelsea since the appointment of Carlo Ancelotti as Blues boss to win the Community Shield and lay down a marker for the new season.

Ancelotti's team ended the last campaign as Premier League and FA Cup champions - inflicting home and away league defeats on United in the process, as well as winning the Community Shield.

But they had no answer to a United team inspired by the evergreen Paul Scholes, who controlled the contest from midfield with a superb passing display.

On an afternoon when England's World Cup flops were booed by the vast majority of the 84,623 inside Wembley, Wayne Rooney played a superb low pass for Antonio Valencia's opening goal.

United received a further fillip when new signing Javier Hernandez scored a somewhat fortuitous goal after coming on as a half-time substitute.

Chelsea, who found Edwin van der Sar in impressive form, pulled a goal back late on through Salomon Kalou after the Dutch keeper had made a brilliant one-handed save from substitute Daniel Sturridge.

But substitute Dimitar Berbatov extinguished any slim hopes of a Chelsea comeback with an exquisite lob from Nani's cute pass in the final minute to complete a successful afternoon for Sir Alex Ferguson's team.

The match enjoyed a particularly lively opening period, during which both teams had clear chances to open the scoring.

Valencia did not put enough purchase on an attempted lob, while Scholes wastefully - and somewhat uncharacteristically - volleyed well wide after he had been picked out completely unmarked 16 yards from goal.

Chelsea, with Nicolas Anelka at the tip of an attacking trio that also comprised Florent Malouda and Kalou, quickly responded.



Van der Sar, with a rare handling error, failed to hold a long-range strike from Anelka, but Kalou could not convert the rebound from a tight angle.

If the Dutch keeper had been less than assured with Anelka's strike, he was simply sensational as he palmed clear a goal-bound header from Branislav Ivanovic with one hand.

On a warm Wembley afternoon, the tempo noticeably dipped as the opening half wore on, but there was still a series of breathtaking passes from Scholes to savour.

His deft chip played Rooney through but the striker could not find the target from an acute angle, while several times the veteran midfielder caught left-back Cole out of position with raking cross-field passes.

From one of them, Rooney played a precise first-time cross that Valencia converted for the opening goal four minutes before the break.

Chelsea, who defeated Portsmouth to win the FA Cup on their previous trip to Wembley in May, responded after the restart, with Malouda and the fit-again Michael Essien shooting narrowly wide from long distance, while Van der Sar denied Kalou and Cole, who was later booed from the field as he was substituted.

United had made a triple change at the break - with Hernandez soon into his stride on his first major outing since joining from Mexican side Guadalajara.

The diminutive forward showcased a series of flicks and spins, as well as a speed and willingness to create space.

But he was lucky with his goal, snatching at a Valencia cross only for the ball to strike him flush in the face before deflecting into the net.

Chelsea responded, with Van der Sar twice denying the lively Sturridge but unable to prevent Kalou from slotting home a rebound.

It looked as though the Blues might find an equaliser but the prospect of a fourth penalty shoot-out in as many years ended with Berbatov's crafty lobbed finish in injury-time.

Blackburn goalkeeper Paul Robinson has pulled out of the England squad for Wednesday's friendly with Hungary and retired from international football.

The 30-year-old played at the 2006 World Cup but had drifted off the scene until his recall for this game.

"Only now have I been able to make this decision as previously I haven't been in contention for selection," he said.

"I don't see myself as a number three or four keeper and find that role very frustrating."

The former Leeds and Tottenham goalkeeper made his England debut in 2003 against Australia and won 41 caps, including playing in all five of England's games at the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

But he paid the price for costly errors as England failed to reach Euro 2008, most famously failing to connect with a Gary Neville back pass which resulted in an own goal in the 2-0 defeat in Croatia.

His last appearance for England was a 2-1 defeat against Russia in 2007, where he could only palm a long-range shot into Roman Pavlyuchenko's path to set up Russia's winning goal.

Robinson was not selected by England for two years after that, and only earned a recall to the squad when David James was injured for the World Cup 2010 qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Andorra.

Since moving to Blackburn two years ago, he seemed to have rediscovered his form, saving two penalties in a Carling Cup shoot-out win over Chelsea as Blackburn reached the semi-finals of the competition.

Rovers manager Sam Allardyce touted him for a place in this summer's World Cup squad, but having fallen behind the more experienced James and the younger Joe Hart and Robert Green in the international pecking order, he was never a likely contender for a place in the party.
Paul Robinson
Robinson's worst England moment came against Croatia in 2006

Allardyce says he fully understands why Robinson has declined Capello's invitation to join up with the England squad once more.

"For the time being, England will miss him," said Allardyce. "They missed him in the World Cup because he should have gone there. He feels that if he isn't going to be number one, then he doesn't feel the need to be travelling with England.

"As my player, I support him because I see him week in, week out and know how well he has performed. It's a big decision he's made, but I understand it."

Robinson was named in England coach Fabio Capello's first squad since the disappointment of South Africa, but with Hart and Ben Foster also included - and more likely starters - Robinson has announced his decision.

"I haven't had the opportunity of anything other than [not being first choice] in recent years therefore I feel it is in the best interest of myself and my club Blackburn Rovers that I concentrate solely on my club football.

South Africa have named Pitso Mosimane as the new head coach of the national side, Bafana Bafana.

The former assistant to World Cup coach Carlos Alberto Parreira has been handed a four-year contract.

His first job is to qualify for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, then the same competition in Libya in 2013.

The term of the deal also spans the all-important qualifying campaign for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

"I feel extremely privileged to be promoted to head coach," the former SuperSport United boss said at a Johannesburg news conference confirming his appointment.

"It's my vision to take Bafana Bafana to a higher level at the 2014 World Cup.

"At some stage, I may make an error or two and if that's the case, I believe I'll have the grace to accept it, correct it and learn from it."

Mosimane has been set various targets by Safa, according to its chief executive, Leslie Sedibe.

"It's critical to qualify for the Nations Cup and Brazil 2014, and the coach understands the mandate and expectation from the people of South Africa," Sedibe said.

Mosimane has asked that Jairo Leal, another Parreira assistant, and fitness trainer Francisco Gonzalez be retained.

"I'd like to thank Parreira for all the mentoring and confidence he's shown in me," said Mosimane.

Mosimane rose to prominence when leading local side SuperSport United to two cup trophies and to two league runner-up places between 2001 and 2006.

He has been caretaker coach of South Africa once before, leading the side to three victories and three draws from seven games in 2006.

From 2007, he worked under Parreira who strongly advocated his nomination for the post once Bafana Bafana's World Cup dream had ended.

Bafana Bafana's next competitive match is in September when they host Niger for their inaugural 2012 Nations Cup qualifier.

Sierra Leone and the reigning African champions Egypt are the other teams in their group.

France striker Thierry Henry has retired from international football after a 13-year career.

The 32-year-old made the announcement a day after joining Major League side New York Red Bulls from Barcelona.

Henry said he was "fully committed" to the Major League side and did not want to travel regularly back to Europe to play for Les Bleus.

The 1998 World Cup winner is France's all-time record goalscorer with 51 goals in 123 games.

Speaking in New York on Thursday, Henry, who also won the European Championship with France in 2000, said he decided before this year's World Cup finals in South Africa that he would retire.

"I couldn't announce it before because that's the not type of thing you announce before a World Cup," he said.

He was twice used as a substitute in France's disastrous campaign, playing in the group matches against Uruguay and South Africa as the team lost two of their three matches and failed to reach the knockout stages of the competition.

"That was my last game against South Africa. Ironically, it was also my first game in the national team against South Africa," Henry added, referring to his debut in a 2-1 victory against South Africa in 1997.

The French squad went on strike and refused to train before the South Africa match after striker Nicolas Anelka was sent home for verbally abusing coach Raymond Domenech, who has since been replaced by Laurent Blanc.

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A great goalscoring record, but people forget how good his assists were...

Double 2010
But Henry insisted: "We still have a good team. I think the guys that are going to stay, they still are great players.

"If you see the guys playing individually in their [club] team, they're always doing great.

"But as you know, in a team sport, it's always a matter of having a great team. It's not only about individuals, and I think Laurent Blanc can do this."

Henry added that he did not wish to emulate England winger David Beckham, who has combined playing for a Major League team - LA Galaxy - with travelling back to Europe for international duty.

"I always want to be here [the United States] 100% and am fully committed to this cause and the organisation," he stated.

Henry achieved notoriety after France's World Cup play-off victory over the Republic of Ireland in November 2009 when he handled the ball twice in the build-up to his team's decisive extra-time goal by William Gallas.

The striker escaped punishment from Fifa, which said it had "no legal foundation" to deal with the case, and Fifa rejected a request from the Football Association of Ireland to have the match replayed.

"I think they [the Irish fans] will still have something, yeah, but that's the game," he said on Thursday.

"It was kind of weird, but that's the way the game is. I already talked a lot about what happened that day, and I made it clear it wasn't intentional."

Despite France's troubles during the 2010 World Cup finals, Henry said his time at the 2002 World Cup in Japan and South Korea was "my worst experience ever".

"As a group, we didn't even score one goal and we were the reigning world champion," he stated.

"And we bounced back and we went to the final of the World Cup in 2006. Obviously we didn't win it. It still hurts."

Brazil midfielder

international midfielder Ramires has welcomed reported interest in him from the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid and Chelsea.

The 23-year-old currently plays his football in Portugal with Benfica, but is happy to be attracting interest from a number of Europe's biggest clubs.

He told Record: "My agent has told me that a number of clubs are interested in signing me, but this didn't surprise me.

"We all know that the World Cup is the perfect stage to prove your worth. One good game could be enough to attract the interest of a big club.

"I don't know the names of the clubs that are after me, but it would be a dream for me to play for a big club such as Barcelona, Real Madrid or Chelsea."

Americans advance with dramatic 1-0 victory over Algeria

PRETORIA, South Africa — PRETORIA, South Africa — When the bus carrying the U.S. team turned the corner into Loftus Versfeld Stadium, the driver suddenly had to pump the brakes. There were people in the road, hundreds of them.

Fans waving flags. Fans with flags draped over the shoulders. Fans with flags painted on their faces. Fans wearing jerseys. Fans wearing funky felt Uncle Sam hats. Fans dancing. Fans singing. Fans chanting. Fans blowing on vuvuzelas. Fans banging on the side of the bus.

U.S. fans.

The symbolism wasn’t lost on Coach Bob Bradley and his players as they gazed out the tinted windows. They had arrived, in more ways than one.

Soccer has been eternally searching for its seminal moment in the United States, and it may have arrived Wednesday in the dying minutes of a game against Algeria played on a chilly afternoon on the opposite side of the planet. The U.S. men have reached the second round of the World Cup before, but this might be the first time they reached the second round when anybody noticed back home.

When anybody cared.

U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati was asked afterward if the 1-0 decision against Algeria, forged by a dramatic injury-time goal from talismanic midfielder Landon Donovan, qualified as the biggest win in American soccer history.

“Let me think: Yes,” Gulati said. “We’ve had other wins that were very important, but the difference with today is that America was tuned in. I don’t like to use the term ‘tipping point,’ but this would have been a great opportunity lost.”

Added Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber: “We don’t get many moments like this. I think it’s a sign that people are starting to pay attention. We always talk about the water level rising with soccer. Well, today the water rose.”

It was one of those days when nothing would go right, and then everything did in a sudden, glorious whoosh of fortune. In one swing of Donovan’s right foot, the Yanks went from World Cup elimination to winning the game to winning their first-round group to receiving an unimaginably navigable route to the semifinals.

They’ll play Ghana — 1-0 losers to Germany on Wednesday — in the round of 16 on Saturday in Rustenburg, the same “lucky” stadium where they tied England in their opening match here and where they beat Egypt 3-0 in the 2009 Confederations Cup. Win that, and they get Uruguay or South Korea, two teams also below the Americans in the FIFA world rankings. Win that, and they’re in the semifinals for the first time in the modern era.

The Americans technically finished tied with England — a 1-0 winner against Slovenia — atop Group C with one win and two ties. The first tiebreaker is goal differential, and both teams were at plus-one. The second tiebreaker is total goals scored, and the Americans had four to England’s two.

That gave them their first group title in World Cup history.

Another first: A win in the third and final game of the group stage. Entering Wednesday they were 0-for-7, including five losses in third games of five straight World Cups dating since 1990.

One thing that wasn’t a first: how they did it.

Drama has become the hallmark of this team, the ability to hew magic from desperation. Down 1-0 to England after four minutes? Down 2-0 to tiny Slovenia at halftime and facing probable elimination? Still tied 0-0 with Algeria as the game entered injury time and facing certain elimination?

No problem, no problem, no problem. In qualifying for this World Cup, they scored a staggering nine times after the 85th minute.

On Wednesday, the Americans had another goal negated by a dodgy referee’s call, had a shot smack off the post, had sitters sail over the crossbar, had headers go just wide, had sure goals spectacularly swatted away by Algerian goalkeeper Rais M’Bolhi.

“Sometimes you have games like this, where you have a lot of chances and you can’t score,” Mt. Carmel High alum Steve Cherundolo said. “Usually those games end up 0-0. But today we found a way, somehow we found a way.

“This team never says die, and we proved that one more time.”

It came in the final, riveting moments of a wild game both teams knew they needed to win to reach the second round. Algeria would launch an attack. The United States would survive the assault, then come racing back in the other direction.

Algeria had just created maybe its best scoring chance since Rafik Djebbour hit the crossbar with a thunderous shot in the sixth minute — a point-blank header by unmarked Rafik Saifi that went right at U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard.

At this point, the U.S. midfielders and forwards had essentially abandoned their defensive compatriots, no longer tracking back to help and leaving them on an island to ward off Algerian offensive forays so they could stay forward on the attack. So when Howard collected Saifi’s header and unleashed a long throw to Donovan at midfield, the Yanks were suddenly roaring the other way with a 4-on-3 advantage.

Donovan touched the ball wide to Jozy Altidore, who curled a low cross into the penalty area to Clint Dempsey, who hit a shot toward the left corner of the net.

Which the sprawling M’Bolhi blocked. The ball bounced in front the goal, spinning in the grass for a tantalizing split-second, the game hanging in the balance, as players from both teams frantically converged on it.

“The moment,” Donovan said, “kind of slowed down for me.”

He got there first and slotted it into the net.

Pandemonium.

Donovan sprinted toward the corner flag and slid on his stomach as one teammate after another piled on top. Players and coaches skipped 15 yards onto the field from the bench. Howard pointed to the heavens and screamed. In a VIP box, Former President Bill Clinton was losing his voice cheering. In another VIP box, tears were running down the face of Gulati.

“First thing I did was look for the referee to make sure nothing was called,” Gulati said wryly. “Then I turned around and hugged everyone in sight.”

Back home, the water continued to rise

Manchester United's Dimitar Berbatov Blown Away By North American Support

Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has been amazed by the support the club has received so far on their tour of the United States.

Berbatov, 29, has been with the rest of the squad in Chicago as they prepare for the first match of their North American tour in Toronto, Canada today. As usual with United's summer trips, scores of fans have been on hand to give them a huge welcome.

Speaking to Soccer Moment News, the Bulgarian was blown away by the reception he has received on the other side of the Atlantic.

"You get a positive energy from the fans," Berbatov said.

"They are always cheering for the team and always cheering for the players. For example, today in training it was very nice for us to see all the people there supporting us, and it's like that all over the world wherever we go.

"It shows how big Manchester United is."

United are also set to meet the Philadelphia Union, Kansas City Wizards and the MLS All Stars, before taking on Chivas in Mexico in the coming weeks.

Wes Brown was convinced the games will stand the team in good stead for next season.

"It will be a good game," Brown noted.

"We're probably more used to playing Celtic than anyone, so I'm sure there'll be a few tackles flying in.

"It's more of a fitness thing and about just getting back into it."

Wesley Sneijder Leading The Race For The FIFA Ballon d'Or

The Barcelona and Argentina player was considered the favourite to retain his crown after a sparkling goal laden season with the Blaugrana. However, a disappointing World Cup has seen Messi's odds move out to 15.0.

He remains a very strong contender with his new attractive odds already enticing punters. soccermomentblog.blogspot.com's betting and odds expert David Mole says you should look around for value in this contest.

"Betting on markets like this can be difficult as it's not as clear cut as betting on a game where you can watch the action unfold. You have to get into the minds of the selectors and try and see who has impressed on a world wide scale. Sneijder offers little value at even money and he may not be nailed on, having lost out in the final.

"It would have been difficult to turn down a quadruple winner but it will be easier to turn down one of the thugs who turned up in the final! My tip would be to look elsewhere for value, especially around Forlan, Messi and Villa."


Unsurprisingly the top ten contenders is dominated by Barcelona with the La Liga champions supplying four contenders. Along with Messi Spain's World Cup winners Xavi (2.40), Andres Iniesta (3.0) and David Villa (13.0) are also in contention for the prize.

Spain's top flight supplies six of the top ten including the Barca quartet, Diego Forlan (11.0) of Atletico Madrid and Iker Casillas (21.0) of Real Madrid. Serie A is represented by Sneijder and his Inter team-mate Diego Milito (21.0) and the Bundesliga have Bayern Munich's Arjen Robben (8.0) and Thomas Mueller (12.0) competing for the newly named FIFA Ballon d'Or.

Not a single Premier League player features in the top ten with Wayne Rooney to closest contender at 29.0. 2008 winner Cristiano Ronaldo is currently priced at 26.0.

Iker Casillas is the long shot at 21.0 and will be the first goalkeeper since Lev Yashin in 1963 to win the prize if he succeeds. Casillas may be worth a punt as the last three winners in World Cup years have come from the winning country (Fabio Cannavaro 2006, Ronaldo 2002, Zinedine Zidane 1998).

FIFA have revamped the prize merging their own player of the year award with the long established Ballon d'Or which began in 1956.

The first winner will receive the prize on January 10th 2011 in Zurich, Switzerland.

Arsenal Manager Arsene Wenger Insists Nicklas Bendtner's Injury Is 'Not A Big Problem'

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has downplayed fears Nicklas Bendtner could miss the start of the season and insisted his groin injury was "not a big problem."

Bendtner, 22, struggled with the knock towards the end of the season and for Denmark and at this summer's World Cup. Since returning to the Gunners camp after the tournament he has undergone an MRI scan and fears had emerged he wouldn't be ready for the new campaign.

Speaking to the club's official website, however, Wenger insisted the damage was "not a big problem."

"We have an assessment with him on Thursday," Wenger revealed.

"It is a groin problem and we see where we go from there. We need to check it to see if we have to do something. But no, it is not a big problem."

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Bendtner had previously announced his intention for a "total break" from football to heal the damage.

Bendtner said: “I still feel quite bad in my groin. Sadly it hasn’t been better during my holiday, like I expected it to giving it nothing but rest. And that worries me a lot.

"I had hoped, and counted on, that a total break from football and training would heal the injury, but it hasn’t happened.

"I have spoken to Arsenal throughout the holiday and I am having to do a big scan when I return this week.

"My whole body must be scanned to find out where the groin problem really comes from. I still feel pain, and it is very frustrating. I don’t know where I am in ­relation to playing ­football.

"It doesn’t feel good at all. Some ­mornings I can hardly get out of bed.

"It is not the best way to return to Arsenal like this, but the club and I have to get to the bottom of my problem now."

Spain hit their stride

David Villa summed it up perfectly after Spain had booked their place in Sunday’s Final against the Netherlands. “When we play our best football we’re very hard to stop,” commented the Barcelona striker, underlining his side’s domination of Germany in Wednesday’s semi-final in Durban, a game in which the European champions recaptured their form and deservedly advanced to their first FIFA World Cup™ Final.

Despite the narrow scoreline, there was no contesting Spain’s superiority on the pitch, as Germany midfielder Marcell Jansen sportingly recognised afterwards: “Spain are on a different level. They play as one in attack and defence and they all work together. They are a very compact unit.”

The magnanimous Jansen was not the only German singing La Roja’s praises after the final whistle, with coach Joachim Low joining in the chorus of approval. “They denied us the ball right from the very first minute and we weren’t able to play our game,” he admitted. “We gave it a go and we fought to the end but Spain are a superior side and move the ball around better than anyone.”

Given their ground-breaking achievement and the convincing manner in which they achieved it, it was no surprise to see Vicente del Bosque’s players grinning with satisfaction as they emerged from the dressing rooms at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. “That was the best Spain have played at this World Cup,” commented midfielder Sergio Busquets.

“We are so happy right now and we need to savour it,” added team-mate Andres Iniesta. “We played a great game and no one can argue we don’t deserve to be in the Final.

Coach Del Bosque could not hide his satisfaction at his side’s vibrant display: “It was a fantastic match and I have to congratulate my players for their sterling work in defence and attack. They played a great game.”

“We couldn’t be happier and we are starting to fulfil our dream now,” added Villa, who for once failed to get on the scoresheet, not that the tournament’s joint top scorer minded someone else getting in on the act: “I’m happy we’re in the Final and it doesn’t matter whether I scored the goal or not. It was a fantastic finish from Puyol.”

“It’s Puyi’s day,” added Barcelona linchpin Xavi in praise of Spain’s matchwinner. “It was a spectacular goal and he deserved it, especially with all the great work he’s been doing in defence.”

With Villa failing to engineer the breakthrough for once, it fell to the incombustible central defender to crash through Germany’s defensive wall. With less than 20 minutes remaining, the Barcelona defender rose above everyone, including Gerard Pique, to power home the only goal of the game.

“If anyone deserves it, it’s him,” said an admiring Busquets. “He does the lot: he defends, he gets forward and he’s one of the best defenders in the world. This could be his last World Cup so he deserves all the glory he’s getting tonight.”

The man of the hour made a typically untheatrical exit from Durban, a clear indication that his mission will not be over until Spain crown themselves world champions, a goal shared by the insatiable Villa: “Now that we’ve got this far, we need to go on and win the Final.”

France Coach Laurent Blanc Promises ‘Rigor & Discipline’ In New Regime

Laurent Blanc was officially unveiled as the new coach of France on Tuesday morning and fielded questions from the press for the first time since undertaking his new position, promising a stricter rule than that imposed by Raymond Domenech.

Les Bleus imploded amidst embarrassing infighting while in South Africa and ultimately crashed out at the group stage of the World Cup. Former Girondins de Bordeaux coach Blanc, who won the competition in 1998 as a player, has guaranteed a more united front.

Blanc has vowed to impose “rigour and discipline, which no one will be exempt from, whether they be called Pierre, Paul or Jacques”.

“I take the France team as it is, but I cannot of course act as if nothing had happened in South Africa,” he continued. “I have followed events with great sadness. I was disappointed by the sporting record but especially outraged by certain conduct. I will integrate these elements into my thinking in the near future. I’ve always had principles and rules of behaviour. I will not change.”
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The whole briefing was not conducted in such a tone, with ‘Le President’ starting by confessing his pleasure at his new post.

“For me, the team of France is the best of the best,” Blanc confessed to the press. “I am very proud to be here.”

Blanc has yet to finalise his backroom team, but Jean-Louis Gasset and Alain Boghossian will be involved as his assistant and coach respectively.

Uruguay and Atletico Madrid striker Diego Forlan insists that he could have formed a "devastating" partnership with Wayne Rooney, had he remained at Manchester United.

The 31-year-old spent two difficult years with the Red Devils, taking several months to get off the mark for the club, with some dubbing the player as 'Diego Forlorn' during that time.

His sale to Villarreal in 2004 came at a point when United acquired their star performer Rooney from Everton, and the Atleti forward believes that he could have forged a fearsome partnership with the Merseysider.

"I was very young at Manchester United, and I feel that I was just starting to find my feet when I was sold and Rooney was brought in," said Forlan, according to The Express.

"If we had been paired together I think we could have formed the most devastating strike partnership in Europe, but it wasn’t to be.

"I feel I have nothing to prove at all, my scoring rate in La Liga speaks for itself. My average is well over a goal in two games, and in the toughest league in the world, it speaks for itself."

In the meantime, Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson conceded that he had to get rid of the striker for a throwaway price, because the partnership with Ruud van Nistelrooy never really reached the heights that he expected they would reach.

"We’re all proud of Diego, but the combination of him and Ruud just did not work and I think he always wanted to get to Spain at some point in his career," Ferguson said. "We sold him too cheaply and he was very unlucky with us."

Forlan, however, has had a fantastic time in Spain following his lacklustre spell at Old Trafford, going on to regain his status as a prolific goal scorer - first with the Yellow Submarine, and now with Atletico.

His stellar performances in the 2010 World Cup has also seen his country grace the semi-finals of the competition, as a date with Netherlands looms large on the horizon.

And the former Independiente hitman had consequently been linked with a move back to the Premier League, with Tottenham Hotspur interested in acquiring his services to add weight in their Champions League quest.

However, the striker has ruled out the possibility of a move, declaring that he will "never" return to play in England.

"Tottenham are a club who are going in the right direction, but I have no interest in joining the Premier League with any club," said Forlan. "For a start, Spain is much hotter and also it is my home now.

"We have a great team at Atletico and next season we will be aiming for a top-four finish. We have some very exciting young players and I am excited for the season.

"I will never play in England again, but I still actually look back with fond memories at some moments.

World Cup 2010: Diego Maradona Mocks Bastian Schweinsteiger In A German Accen

Argentina coach Diego Maradona laughed off German criticism of his team's play, suggesting that it showed the Europeans were running scared ahead of Saturday's quarter final.

"We don't have time to think of (Bastian) Schweinsteiger, the boys are thinking about getting on the field and playing a 2006 rematch. So it doesn't worry me what he says about penalties, kicks, that we don't know how to lose, it doesn't interest us," the outspoken trainer insisted in an interview with Fox Sports on Wednesday.
"A different game is played every match and this is going to be different, because we are coming out to attack them and play in their faces. This is what has them nervous."

'El Pelusa' then faced directly into the camera and in his best imitation of a Teutonic accent posed the question to the German: "What's the matter Schweinsteiger? Are you nervoushh?"

Maradona also fielded questions about the composition of his team, ruling out going back to the 4-4-2 he used in an earlier friendly against the Germans and in the final World Cup qualifier.

"Those games were tactically perfect, but in that moment and under a different necessity. Now it would be a sin to change back with the players that we have."

World Cup 2010 Comment: All Hail Ghana

Many people felt African teams would perform better than ever at this year's World Cup because of homeland support, but my modest experience in sports gave me, earlier on, the guts to argue that fans’ ovations don’t pad talents or tactics.

On the streets, across major African cities, soccer pundits and amateurs air their particular views – regrets or justifications – for the premature eliminations of the eliminated African teams. You’ll hear some say Algeria would have joined the last 16 if not for the blunder of their goalkeeper in their opener against Slovenia.

You’ll hear others say Ivory Coast were good but only unlucky to fall into the Group of Death – but this is the World Cup, why should you hand pick your adversaries? You also hear some Lagosians (inhabitants of Lagos, Nigeria) say Sani Kaita’s idiotic red card sank the Super Eagles' boat in South Africa – but a number of teams have won matches with one or two players short.

Still, they’ll tell you Cameroon messed up because Paul Le Guen went with inexperienced players – but what about Ghana? And for host country South Africa, I have heard some say the World Cup was only an avenue to show the world that the Bafana Bafana have come along – what an objective for a World Cup team!

I have also heard people say that some big and promising teams didn’t live up to expectations at South Africa 2010 because of the fatigue their players came with from the long and gruesome European leagues. Teams like England, France, Italy, Ivory Coast, etc, have benefited from these private excuses; but what about players from North and South America? Where do many of the players of Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay ply their trade? Is it not the same European leagues?

I believe facing the fact may save us now and help future generations. Were African teams really equal to the task? Were they strong, fit, combative and cohesive enough to vie with renowned teams? I think the answer lies somewhere between “no” and “not sure”.

The FIFA World Cup is not for the weak. The tournament is partitioned in an order of strong, stronger and strongest. The so called “strong teams” are filtered out, gradually, leaving the stronger teams, who in turn find themselves sieved away for the strongest squads to stand out. It’s like climbing a hill. At the base, many candidates are excited, but as the climb intensifies the feeble participants cede and roll down while the able contestants move on.

So, instead of finding cheap reasons to justify and comfort ourselves for the failures of our African teams, let’s concentrate on, and learn from, the Ghanaian example. A young and determined team is about to make history. Since Angola 2010, the Black Stars have been proving to us that star players don’t win tournaments; it’s a star team that wins. Besides talent, the west Africans have been showing how teamwork, patriotism, selflessness, togetherness, common goal and resistance pay more than any other attributes in sports.

But before you watch their next match against Diego Forlan’s Uruguay, hail them for their journey this far at the World Cup.

Nigeria Could Face FIFA Expulsion After President Goodluck Jonathan's National Team Ban

Nigeria could be expelled from FIFA as a consequence of Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan's announcement on Wednesday that he has banned the national side from competition for two years as punishment for their poor performance at the World Cup.

FIFA are investigating the Nigerian president's announcement, which also includes the Nigerian Football Federation being dissolved and an interim board appointed.

If the world governing body decides there has been unacceptable government interference then the country could be expelled.

Sepp Blatter has already warned France's government against their involvement in the French federation's affairs, and under FIFA rules national associations can be suspended or expelled if there is such interference.

FIFA communications director Nicolas Maingot said: "The worst sanction available is that a national association can be expelled but this is not related to either of the two cases.

"In terms of Nigeria we have received official information from their government.

"We are looking at both cases. FIFA has a very clear position on political interference but it is premature to speak further about either case."

Special presidential adviser Ima Niboro said: "President Goodluck Jonathan has directed that Nigeria withdraws from international competition for two years to enable the country to put its house in order.

"This directive became necessary following Nigeria's poor performance in the ongoing World Cup."

Nigeria finished bottom of Group B behind Argentina, South Korea and Greece in the first World Cup held in Africa.

Manchester City & Arsenal Ready To Move For Inter Striker Mario Balotelli

Manchester City and Arsenal are ready to entice Inter rebel Mario Balotelli with lucrative offers after he admitted his future in Milan is far from certain.

Balotelli opened the door to a Premier League move after claiming he was pleased with Arsenal's reported interest on Tuesday. That was quickly played down by his agent who said he would not leave Inter this summer.

But Il Corriere dello Sport claims City and the Gunners are now thinking of making a serious move for him by offering €25 million.

The 19-year-old striker is good friends with Roberto Mancini who gave him his Inter breakthrough when he was coach at San Siro.

However, since then Balotelli has endured problems and last term he was seen as a rebel by former coach Jose Mourinho and several senior players.

His troubles there have led him to consider a breath of fresh air could revive his career. The hitman is also liked in London and Arsene Wenger is pondering a €20m move.

However, both Premier League sides would have to increase their offers considerably as Inter value him at close to €40m.

Speculative voices have suggested the Nerazzurri could ask City for Carlos Tevez if the deal becomes fixed, but the English side have made it clear the himan is not for sale.

Best European Football

Roy Makaay rates as one of European football’s most prolific strikers of recent times, with a total of 256 goals in Spain’s La Liga, the Bundesliga in Germany and the Dutch Eredivisie. He reached a personal zenith in 2003, when he claimed the Golden Shoe as the continent’s leading scorer with 29 goals in the Spanish top flight. At the end of last term, Makaay brought down the curtain on his illustrious career, which for all his success at club level, never included a run-out at the FIFA World Cup™.

In the build-up to the quarter-finals in South Africa, FIFA.com spoke to the 35-year-old about his impressions of the tournament so far, the best forwards at the finals, and who he is backing to win the trophy.

Ghana fever grips South Africa

The 2010 FIFA World Cup™ has always been billed as a first for Africa, and as such all the African teams partaking in the tournament have felt the impetus of home ground advantage. As the last team still remaining in the tournament, Ghana have found themselves well supported in the host nation.

All over South Africa the Ghanaian colours are finding their way into the homes, cars and wardrobes of local fans. “Ghana was amazing against the US,” said Lebo Mahlatjie, an ardent African football fan. “They have really put Africa's presence into this tournament.”

For fans like Mahlatjie, the Black Stars epitomise Africa's efforts both on and off the pitch. “They have a good chance to get through. They have surprised everyone and done Africa proud, whatever happens on Friday.”

Ghana will make history on Friday if they can beat Uruguay to advance to the Semi Finals as the first team from the African continent to do so. “If they manage that I can't tell you how wild it will be,” said Mahlatjie. “It will be the greatest day.”

The successes of the Ghanaian team has converted many local people, many of whom were not necessarily the biggest football fans before. “They play great football,” said Samantha Robb. “It feels fantastic to see them doing so well, you have to support them.”

For Robb the thought of Ghana winning is almost too much to bear. “I will celebrate Africa's success. Together we have come so far and this is our World Cup, already we have broken perceptions around what Africa can do.”

South African fans will turn out in their thousands on Friday night to root for the Black Stars. “I have a ticket to the game,” said Tebogo Mutlanyune. “Ghana is representing Africa for all of us and I want to support that. Black Stars all the way.”

Even at an open air viewing of the Portugal vs Spain match on Tuesday night, George Mahlangu is dressed in his Ghanaian colours, preparing himself for the history books to be rewritten. “It is fantastic to have the Black Stars in the Quarter Final, especially in the World Cup hosted here in South Africa. All we need is one African team in the quarters, not all six, to fly the flag for Africa.”

Ronaldo gutted to go out

Portugal's resistance might have been breached by Spain, leaving Cristiano Ronaldo a broken man, but coach Carlos Queiroz believes his team will bounce back stronger.

The UEFA European champions won an absorbing FIFA World Cup™ round of 16 contest 1-0 on Tuesday evening, denying Portugal another crack at winning the tournament for the first time in their history. Portugal defended well, but they were ultimately suffocated of space and possession by a Spanish team starting to hit its stride.

The statistics spoke for themselves, with Spain plundering 19 shots to Portugal's nine and having 61 percent of the possession. Queiroz deployed Pepe in defensive midfield and Ronaldo and Simao on the wings, with Hugo Almeida as central striker. But they were unable to break through the Spanish defence, marshalled by Joan Capdevila, Gerard Pique, Carles Puyol and Sergio Ramos.

Real Madrid's Ronaldo, the most expensive footballer in the world, was left broken, refusing to speak to the media after the match. His only remark was to a TV crew when he said: "How can I explain it (the defeat). Ask the question of Carlos Queiroz."

He was roundly criticised at home for that and for not assuming his responsibilities as the national captain. In a statement issued later, he said he was deeply sad. "I feel a broken man, completely disconsolate, frustrated and an unimaginable sadness," he said.

"When I said 'put the question to the coach', it is just because Carlos Queiroz was holding a press conference. I was not in a position to explain what was what. I am a human being, and like any human being I suffer and I have the right to suffer alone. I know that I am the captain, and I have always assumed and will assume my responsibilities."

Queiroz - who got to know Ronaldo well when he was Sir Alex Ferguson's assistant at Manchester United - said his team had plenty of chances to snatch the match, but admitted Spain were worthy winners.

"It was an extremely difficult game but Spain moved the ball very well and had more possession and any team that does that can control the game better. We did have opportunities to score but unfortunately we were not able to do so, hence allowing Spain to win 1-0. We could have scored at certain critical moments, but Spain's victory is justified," he said.

Portugal leave the tournament having conceded just one goal, but it was a costly one with David Villa doing the damage. Queiroz said his team deserved praise despite being on an early plane home. "Portugal played a worthy game, the players fought with ambition and desire to win, but it was not possible. We have to come back stronger," he said.

"But I would also like to underscore the fact that Portugal played with a great degree of dignity and ambition and I believe the fans have justifiable reason to be proud of the way the team has played."

He said they would return home and work at becoming an even better side. "We wanted to do well and when we compete at this level, if we manage to obtain second or third, it is not satisfactory," he said.

"We always have as our main goal to win. We also want to have an honourable performance to dignify Portuguese football. I wanted us to be able to leave the field with our heads held high, and I think we accomplished this. We hope that in the next World Cup we can perform with a greater degree of ambition and keep alive our motto of playing to win."

The Portuguese finished second in their group after goalless draws with Cote d'Ivoire and Brazil and a 7-0 rout of North Korea before meeting Spain.

Did Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo Spit At The Camera On His Way Out Of The World Cup?

Cristiano Ronaldo has been criticized this morning for allegedly spitting at a TV camera following Portugal's 1-0 defeat to Spain last night.

The Real Madrid forward had a frustrating night as Spain rolled out their "tiki-taka" against their neighbors and dominated the ball for an incredible 62% of possession.

Much like Wayne Rooney's reaction to the camera after England's woeful 0-0 draw with Algeria, Ronaldo skulked away from the Green Point Stadium pitch with a sour look on his face and appeared to spit at the camera man following him.

In his defense, this kind of behavior is seen all across the football world and by aiming his phlegm at the ground he did not come close to hitting the camera or the man holding it.

Another intriguing aspect to Portugal and Ronaldo's exit is the ever greater belief in a Nike curse at the 2010 World Cup.

Spain 1-0 Portugal: David Villa Fires The European Champions Into The Quarterfinals

Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 at the Green Point Stadium in Cape Town on Tuesday night to qualify for the quarterfinals of the World Cup. A second half strike from David Villa was enough for the European champions to see of the challenge of their Iberian rival in the last-16 encounter. Portugal's Ricardo Costa was sent off late in the game.

Spain midfielder Xabi Alonso recovered from an ankle problem to start against Portugal on Tuesday night. Coach Vicente del Bosque maintained his faith in striker Fernando Torres too despite the Liverpool hitman failing to shine in the World Cup so far.

Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz deployed Pepe in defensive midfield and Cristiano Ronaldo and Simao on the wings. Hugo Almeida was the central striker for the Euro 2004 finalists.

It was Spain who started the brighter of the two sides as they had their first shot on the Portuguese goal as early as the second minute.

Center-back Gerard Pique instigated the move on the right side as he played Xavi in central midfield position. The Barcelona medio spread the ball wide to the left to Sergio Ramos, who then played Torres but the Liverpool hitman’s shot on goal was palmed away by Portugal goalkeeper Eduardo.

A minute later David Villa attempted a long-range effort from a narrow angle on the left but once again Eduardo stood up to the challenge.

Villa tried to repeat his trick in the seventh minute when he collected a Xavi pass on the left, cut inside and took a low right-footed shot on the Portugal goal. But once again the newly signed Barcelona striker was thwarted by Eduardo.

Portugal had failed to make any meaningful forays into the Spain half so far but on 10 minutes star player Cristiano Ronaldo did attempt to create an opening. The Real Madrid player ran down the right and floated in a cross, which, though, was too far away for Almeida.

Three minutes later it was the European champions’ chance to threaten the Portuguese citadel as Xavi’s short corner was shot by Torres on goal on the spin from inside the penalty area. However, the former Atletico Madrid forward’s attempt went over the crossbar.

Spain continued to dominate possession and territory with Portugal restricted to hopeful crosses. In the 19th minute La Roja had their opponents in a fix when Ramos released Torres on the right who swung in a quick cross. However, there was no one in a red shirt to head home the cross.

A couple of minutes later Portugal had their first shot on target and could have actually taken the lead. Tiago was afforded too much time and space on the ball outside the Spain penalty box and took a stinging shot on goal. Casillas could only push it upwards and barely scrambled the ball away as Almeida rushed in to head it home.

The Group H winners propelled themselves into another attack in the 24th minute when a marching Ramos passed the ball to Andres Iniesta just outside the box. But the midfielder’s through ball aimed to find Villa went out for a goalkick. A minute later Xavi tried to put Villa through on goal but again the pass was too heavy.

However, Portugal could have taken the lead against the run of play in the 28th minute when Ronaldo’s straightforward freekick was wobbled over by Casillas before being finally put to safety.

A minute later Villa went for a cross-shot from the left but saw the ball end on the roof of the Portugal net. Moments afterwards Xavi went for goal himself from around 20 yards but couldn’t keep his shot on target.

Spain kept on trying to breach the Portugal citadel but the latter threw themselves at everything that even remotely threatened them. However, in the 39th minute it was Queiroz's side who could have taken the lead when Raul Meireles crafted a wonderfully floated ball into the Spain penalty area only for Almeida to head the ball wide despite out-jumping Joan Capdevila.

Portugal had two quick chances after that. First, in the 42nd minute Simao was almost sent through on goal on a quick counter but Casillas came out of his area to clear the danger. Moments later Fabio Coentrao delivered a dangerous cross into the area that Tiago fiercely headed towards Casillas’s goal but couldn’t find the target.

In the dying seconds, Torres had a chance but he was foiled by Portugal center-back Ricardo Carvalho.


Spain started the second half on an attacking mode as Torres tried to march along the left side. However, he was tackled by Coentrao.

On 52 minutes Ramos galloped down the right and delivered a ball towards Xabi Alonso, who was however beaten to the header by Tiago. The move continued, though, as Xavi tried to find Torres only to see the ball reach Eduardo.

Portugal then launched a counter-attack as Almeida whipped in a cross that was almost put into his own net by Carles Puyol as he protruded his knee to block the cross.

It became end-to-end action after that as Ramos and Xavi tried to play a one-two but failed. At the other end Casillas was forced to punch out a ball.

A minute before the hour mark Spain coach Vicente del Bosque brought on Fernando Llorente in place of Fernando Torres and the change almost made immediate impact. Ramos swung in a brilliant cross from the right that Llorente stooped to head into the Portugal net, but his header went straight to Eduardo.

Spain were the side imposing the most pressure at this point of time and the World Cup favorites eventually scored in the 63rd minute. A neat interplay among the Spanish players in tight spaces saw David Villa receive the ball on the left side of the box. His first attempt on the Portugal goal was blocked by Eduardo but the former Valencia striker made no mistake from the rebound.

La Furia Roja were clearly the side looking more likely to score the second goal of the night as Xavi and Capdevila both ventured forward. Indeed, the Spaniards could have netted in the 70th minute when right-back Ramos cut inside from the right and took an attempt on the Portugal goal with his left foot. Eduardo did just enough to parry it away.

Villa, who had earlier scored his fourth goal of the World Cup in South Africa, could have added to his tally on 77 minutes when he went for an audacious 30-yard attempt on goal that Eduardo once again punched away.

Spain continued to suffocate Portugal of space and possession. Things turned from bad to worse for the Portuguese when Ricardo Costa was sent off for elbowing Capdevila in the face on 88 minutes. Deep into injury time Portugal came close to stealing the equalizer but the Spanish defenders stood strong as Spain deservedly reached the quarterfinals of the World Cup.

Tottenham Hotspur Deny Palermo Claims They Have Bid £28.5m For Simon Kjaer And Edinson Cavani

Tottenham have strongly denied claims by Palermo that they have made a £28.5 million bid for Simon Kjaer and Edinson Cavani.

Spurs issued a denial after Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini was quoted as saying Denmark centre-half Kjaer and Uruguay forward Cavani, who have both been involved at the World Cup in South Africa, are heading for White Hart Lane.

“Tottenham have bid €35m, an offer we cannot refuse, seeing as the two players have both said they want to leave,” Zamparini told Sky Italia television on Monday.

“We will reinvest the money for these players. The midfield is my biggest concern, whereas in defence and attack we are fairly covered.”

But a Tottenham spokesperson told soccer moment:“This is inaccurate. We have not made a bid for either Cavani or Kjaer."

It is understood that Spurs are keen on the pair but have not yet taken their interest any further.

Manager Harry Redknapp has had issues in defence, with both Ledley King and Jonathan Woodgate struggling with long-term injury problems, while chairman Daniel Levy is understood to be willing to pay up to £25m for a world-class striker.

Palermo signed Kjaer, 21, from FC Midtjylland in 2008 and a string of impressive performances in Serie A have brought him to the attention of Europe’s leading clubs.

Cavani, 23, was equally unknown when he moved to the Sicilian club from Danubio in January 2007. He only signed a four-year contract two months ago, while Kjaer agreed an improved deal with Palermo in September last year.

Report: Blackburn Rovers Interested In Signing Real Madrid Legend Raul

Could Raul be on his way to Ewood Park?

Blackburn Rovers are believed to be planning a shock swoop for legendary Real Madrid forward Raul.

The Spaniard had a relatively quiet season for the Primera Division heavyweights, and Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce is consequently hopeful he can lure him to Ewood Park. Allardyce is reportedly readying a sensational bid to prise the hitman away from the White House.

And The Daily Express claims that the 33-year-old is now willing to leave the Madrid-based club following the arrival of Jose Mourinho at the helm, and could welcome a move to the Premier League.

It has been reported than Schalke and Sampdoria are also interested in making a move for the veteran striker, but Rovers are said to be putting together a lucrative package which they hope will tempt Raul to throw in his lot with the east Lancashire side.

His signing would be a coup for Rovers, not least because Raul has also been linked with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in the past.

World Cup 2010 Comment: Who Needs Flashy Football When You Have Brilliant Brazil

Much has been made of Argentina, Spain and the Netherlands’ appetite for joga bonito at the 2010 World Cup while the likes of Chile and Mexico have also been highly commended for playing the beautiful game.

But the one country that everyone wanted to see turn on the style in South Africa was Brazil. Not Dunga and his 23 soldiers, though. And based on their dismantling of Chile in Monday night’s last-16 encounter, they have every reason not to follow the trend and stick with their own brand of football.

It’s difficult to categorise Brazil’s current style. While it has a distinct European feel to it, they are by no means a defensive side. They do like to absorb pressure and they do it very well, but every time they bring the ball forward, there’s still a gasp of excitement in the air as fans wait with baited breath to see what feast will be served up.

The Selecao’s 3-0 thumping of the Chileans once again highlighted how effectively balanced Dunga’s Brazil are. Each of the three goals perfectly summed up their style of play: direct and lethal on the counter-attack with a very subtle hint of Samba beat hidden between the lines of play.


Juan’s opening goal from a header off a Maicon corner is about as un-Brazilian as the archetypal Brazil can get. Described and labelled as a typical 'English' goal, it’s the kind of goal that Dunga and his players always look for to open the scoring as it gives them the freedom to just relax and slowly ease into a more attractive style of play.

The second and third goals are proof of that. Both were scored on a blistering counter-attack and yet, they captured everyone’s imagination. First, there was Robinho’s charge down the left wing which teed up Kaka to cushion on the most delicate of through balls to Luis Fabiano, who proceeded to round the goalkeeper and tuck into the empty net.

Then there was Ramires’ lung-bursting 40-yard dash which set up Robinho for the sweetest of finishes. Two goals on the break that can only be made to look so good by Brazilians. Simple yet elegant at the same time.

To further illustrate how little Dunga cares about fancy flicks, dizzying step-overs and jaw-dropping tricks, and how little the players have been practising their Samba moves, look no further than Luis Fabiano’s embarrassing attempt of a backheel and Kaka’s equally horrible effort. But who needs backheels!

While the Netherlands and Spain, and indeed many other teams, are struggling to juggle between playing good football and avoid getting eliminated from the World Cup, Brazil seem to have found the right mix between efficiency and entertainment.

But just how far can they go with this type of football? Well, the Dutch are about to find out next.

Martino: We're in with a great chance

As Paraguay attempt to reach the FIFA World Cup™ quarter-finals for the first time in their history, their Argentinian coach Gerardo Martino has been speaking to FIFA about his team’s exploits in South Africa. The 47-year-old has led the South Americans since 2007 and in the eyes of many, his clear thinking and positive attitude have been two of the major factors in guiding Los Guaraníes to the brink of history.

Such is the high esteem in which he is held by his players, Martino has successfully managed to change La Albirroja’s style of play from his early days, and the squad has been quick to acknowledge the coach’s foresight in helping them become a potent force in South American football. Now more aggressive and adventurous in attack, but with the same miserly defence, the Paraguayans are dangerous opponents for any team in South Africa.

Attacking adventure and defensive discipline helped Martino’s men cut a swathe through South American qualifying and they have not stopped there. In the first stage they topped Group F, leaving reigning champions Italy in their wake, and they have now set their sights on glory in the knockout stages. But Paraguay's opponents in Tuesday’s last 16 game, Japan, have FIFA World Cup ambitions of their own.


In an exclusive interview with FIFA, Martino spoke openly of his respect for Japan and the satisfaction he gets from working with such a talented crop of Paraguayan players. The feeling of respect between coach and players is, it seems, mutual.

FIFA: This is a historic opportunity for Paraguay. How do you see the game going?
Gerardo Martino: Yes, it’s a great opportunity. Personally I think we can make history in one of two ways. Either we play well, really well, even if we lose, or we just win regardless of the performance.

Japan present a very distinct challenge, and play in a markedly different way to the teams you faced in the group stage. What are you expecting from them?
Every team plays in a different way. The thing is, this is the first game where we know that the winner takes all. That changes things completely because as well as dealing with the opposition, we will have to keep our nerve.


And what are you expecting from your own team?
I want us to be aggressive and to win back possession quickly. I want us to be positive in possession as well because sometimes when we play we have problems in that regard. We need to improve that side of our game. But putting pressure on them to win the ball back is key. We need to get at them, and fortunately that positive aggression is something we have in our team.

Speaking to the players, they all say that you give them a lot of confidence in themselves, and the belief that they can beat anybody on their day. Is confidence an important part of your approach?
I am always honest with my players from the outset. I speak from the heart when I analyse their strengths and weaknesses and that means that I can speak to them easily. It’s true that there are teams with better players than us but I also think that we have tremendous team spirit something which, in my opinion, can balance out better technical ability on the part of other teams.

After a long time in Paraguayan football, you know the players very well. How would you describe the typical Paraguayan player?
Someone who brings a lot to the team and works hard. They are unselfish, they don’t play for themselves, they are dedicated, not only in games but also in training. I’ve always said that the typical Paraguayan footballer gives a coach self-belief, because they play with such intensity that you can’t help but feel that you really have prepared them very well. In truth, that doesn’t have anything to do with the Paraguayan FA, but simply to do with the attitude of the players. And you see that out on the pitch. Every single one of them puts his ego to one side to fight for the team as a whole.

That work ethic can only come from unity within the squad, and that seems to be the hallmark of your team. How have you managed to achieve that in only one month, and in a different country?
It’s something that we emphasise to the players. The FA gives the players the very best. We don’t want to think that any of us, from the medical staff to the admin staff, have got anything wrong. We know that we have the country’s best players here with us and so we have to treat them accordingly. When we first got together we spoke to them a lot about unity and the fact that we would be together for 60 days. We knew that a few things would crop up, and that we would have to sort everything out amongst the squad. The conversation we had with the players was very positive although we had to see them put our plans into practice. And they have done that to a degree that has gone way beyond my expectations.

Appiah: This team is special

After a few days of reflection on their historic second-round victory over USA, Ghana captain Stephen Appiah told FIFA that the Black Stars are staying themselves: relaxed and happy to be together. Having now gone further in the FIFA World Cup™ than ever before, and with a tricky match with Uruguay up next on Friday, the Bologna midfielder reflected on the values of what he calls "a special team".

"I am warmed by the players," said the 29-year-old from the team's camp outside of Rustenburg. "You can see that there is no tension, no pressure. Always with smiles, singing and laughing – stuff like that. What I've learnt is the more pressure you put on yourself, the more things go wrong. So, I have been telling the guys that they should be free [and that] nobody should even think about the games. Maybe a day or two before, then we have to focus on the game. But, for now, we're relaxed, training, laughing, singing, dancing. I think that's very important."

Handling the world's biggest football tournament in this way has been a consistent refrain from the Black Stars in South Africa. As they were four years ago on their finals debut, Ghana are the only African representatives in the knockout rounds, so they are obviously doing something right. And as anyone who has seen the joy and unity in their post-match celebrations can attest, togetherness is one of the team's hallmarks – not just in word but in spirit.


'I think you can see the atmosphere," he said. "You can see the way we talk to and the respect we have for each other. We practise together, we laugh together, we do everything together. In fact, you can't even see the difference with the lower-cut players and the professional players. I think that's the secret. It's the nice thing about this team."

Grounded but with an eye on history
One of the veterans of what is the youngest team in South Africa, Appiah has been around the block a few times. He started his career with Ghanaian giants Hearts of Oak before embarking on a 13-year career, mostly in Italy's Serie A with Udinese, Parma, Brescia and Juventus. Appiah, who also had a spell in Turkey with Fenerbahce, explained that the young Black Stars are naturally driven in a way many sides are not.

"This Black Stars team is strange," he said. "If you go to some of the teams, if you go to their camp after a big victory like [against the US], you'll see the players outside the lobby, drinking and going to bed late. But, in our camp, you won't even see the players outside. After a big win you'll see us in our room, maybe talking with our wives, with our girlfriends or friends. We will be playing cards or listening to music. I think it's a good thing because – as I always say – with big players, you don't see them out after a big victory. They always stay in and focus. I think it's a good sign. The moment you think everything is going well and you start getting a cocky head, then everything goes wrong."

But while admitting that the team are "really proud" of their achievement in becoming the third team to reach the last eight at the FIFA World Cup, matching Cameroon in 1990 and Senegal in 2002, they are excited rather than intimidated by the opportunity that now presents itself. "I think that history is always history," he said about reaching the last eight. "Now it's our turn. Now that we're there, it's history for Ghana. We hope that we can still better it by going to the semi-final. And, for myself, it would be a great achievement because one day I would like to talk to my kids and explain to them what happened in South Africa in 2010."

Tenga: Ghana has a bright future

It was very pleasing to see an African team in Ghana progress to the Round of 16. All of us Africans are looking for the teams from the continent to do well and show the strength of African football. It is extremely important we can show the world that we can do well here, and it is important for the tournament as well. And of course it is always important that the host continent and nation does well and performs with pride.

I am very happy that Ghana did well as they a young team with plenty of promise. They are an attacking team and they look for goals. I’m very proud of this team and they can do well in the future. Certainly, they are one of the bright hopes for African football. They are technically very good, they are capable of fast passing and good movement in attack, though of course being a young team they are inexperienced at this level. For me the fact they employed positive tactics is a revelation as not all teams at the tournament have done that. It will be a great contest against USA and a very tough match but I have confidence in their ability.

I saw the way all the African teams played and mostly they put up excellent performances. They fought extremely hard and had some great moments in attack. They fought hard, but I think they could have done better if they were mentally prepared a little better. Mostly they played very good final matches, unlike the first two group matches. They struggled a little with the pressure, but more so the mental preparation. You need to be prepared to concentrate for 90 minutes at this level.

Jordaan: Bafana did their jersey and their country proud

“Bafana Bafana are out of the World Cup but they won the hearts and minds of all South Africans and the whole world tonight,” said 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa (OC) CEO Danny Jordaan after South Africa’s final group stage match against France in Mangaung/Bloemfontein tonight.

South Africa won the match but it was not enough for the host nation to progress past the group stage of the tournament.

“Yes they did not make it past the group stage but they did what the country asked of them – they played with pride, passion, skill and commitment, they gave their best. They did the national team jersey and every single South African proud and we want to thank them for what they’ve done for this country,” he added.

Jordaan also thanked South Africans for the tremendous support they have shown for the South African team.

“The passion and enthusiasm we have seen across the length and breadth of South Africa in recent weeks has made this tournament truly come alive for locals and visitors alike,” he said.

Jordaan does not believe that South Africa’s exit will affect the overall success of the tournament.

“It may be over for Bafana Bafana but it is not over for South Africa. This is still South Africa’s World Cup. We are not going home, the World Cup is happening in our home,” he said.

“South Africans have already proven their support for Team South Africa. Without millions of them we would not have delivered ten world-class stadiums, opened new airports, highways and train stations in record time or welcomed hundreds of thousands of new visitors to our country. We would not have already hosted more than half of the World Cup matches successfully,” he explained.

“I remain confident that South Africans will continue to be fantastic hosts for the next two and a half weeks and make the most of this incredible time in our country’s history, which has already seen us achieve so much,” said Jordaan.

Jordaan said that support for the tournament to date has met all expectations with a total of 1 570 447 people attending the first 32 matches (an average of 49,076). More than a million people have watched the matches at the ten FIFA Fan Fests in South Africa and hundreds of thousands more have watched the games in public viewing areas around the country, with World Cup matches also shattering television audience records in the country.

Durban has proved to be the most popular FIFA Fan Fest with 238,546 visitors from the start of the tournament until 20 June.

Holman scores against his critics

Brett Holman hopes he has silenced his detractors once and for all with his performances and two goals in the FIFA World Cup™ campaign.

The Socceroos went out of the tournament fighting and with their reputation enhanced after a pulsating 2-1 win over world number 15 Serbia at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit on Wednesday.

Holman, 26, finished as the Socceroos' unexpected leading scorer at the tournament with his goals against Ghana and Serbia and attracted rave reviews for his performances as an all-action midfielder. Fans have not always taken to Holman, but coach Pim Verbeek has consistently been an admirer of his selfless non-stop running and energy.

"You always get criticism from anybody and everybody," said Holman, who has played eight years in the Dutch league and is currently with AZ Alkmaar. "You always want to perform for everybody, but you are always going to get criticism now and then and you have to deal with it and prove them wrong.

"I have always given my best in every game I've played for Australia and it was lucky that I scored these goals in my last two games. I think I always belong, I feel part of the team and part of this group and the atmosphere was great and I always felt comfortable around the boys."

Verbeek leaves no doubt as to what he thinks of Holman and his importance to the Socceroos set-up. "I have always been a fan of Brett Holman. I always thought he was very important to the team," Verbeek said.

The effervescent Holman, who came on with Scott Chipperfield in the 66th minute, let fly with a wonderful long-range strike seven minutes later which left Serbian goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic flailing. "Normally, I would have passed it, but it was one of those things, especially with the ball in this World Cup," he said. "You can shoot from anywhere and it can go all over the place and lucky I connected alright and it hit the back of the net, so it was a good feeling."

Holman is expected to figure more prominently in the future Australian side, now in a transition phase with several long-term Socceroos stepping down from the international arena. "Now this is all over I will sit down and write down what sort of goals I will have over the next four years and we'll go from there," he said.

"I have mixed feelings. We gave a good performance and we beat a great Serbian side, it's unfortunate that we didn't qualify and that was the tough part. Trying to weigh it all up it's great to score two goals at the World Cup, but on the other hand I would have rather not have scored them and us gone through to the next round."

Bath centre Shontayne Hape will make his England Test debut in Saturday's Cook Cup clash with Australia in Perth.

The New Zealand-born rugby league convert, 29, takes over at inside centre from the injured Riki Flutey.

Hooker Steve Thompson and lock Tom Palmer both start, and there is a return for Leicester flanker Tom Croft.

Jonny Wilkinson is on the bench, with Toby Flood retained at fly-half, while Danny Care holds off the challenge of scrum-half rival Ben Youngs.

Leicester hooker George Chuter and Northampton lock Courtney Lawes are both on the bench.

England are chasing their first victory over the Wallabies on Australian soil since the 2003 World Cup final - and only their third ever.

Hape will become the third former Kiwi rugby league international to play for England, following in the footsteps of Henry Paul and Lesley Vainikolo.

He's one of those guys that seems to have a bit more time than most, he's very composed

England manager Martin Johnson on Shontayne Hape

He was set to make his Test debut against Wales during the Six Nations, just weeks after qualifying for England on residency grounds, before falling ill on the eve of the game.

England manager Martin Johnson said: "I have been very impressed with him. He's a very smart carrier with the ball in hand.

"He's one of those guys that seems to have a bit more time than most, he's very composed."

Hape made his first England appearance in the non-cap game against the Barbarians at Twickenham before the squad left for Australia and has been preferred at inside centre to Bath team-mate Olly Barkley.

Thompson came on tour as first-choice hooker after Dylan Hartley was ruled out of the five-match trip through injury, while Palmer impressed off the bench against France in Paris at the end of March.

Croft, a star of the Lions tour 12 months ago, returns to the back row after missing the Six Nations with a knee injury.

Australia rugby coach Robbie Deans has made four changes from the team which beat Fiji last weekend for Saturday's match.
Shontayne Hape in training for England
Hape has shone for Bath since switching codes

James O'Connor displaces Kurtley Beale at full-back after scoring three tries for the Australian Barbarians team which drew 28-28 with England in Perth on Tuesday, and Drew Mitchell returns in place of the injured Adam Ashley-Cooper on the left wing.

Deans has opted for an inexperienced front row of props Salesi Ma'afu and Ben Daley and hooker Saia Faingaa.

Daley and Faingaa take places occupied by Benn Robinson and Huia Edmonds in the Fiji Test which the Wallabies won 49-3.

Quade Cooper remains at fly-half outside scrum-half Luke Burgess while Matt Giteau continues at inside centre in a midfield pairing with Rob Horne.

Rocky Elsom will captain the team as blind-side flanker.

England team:
B Foden; M Cueto, M Tindall, S Hape, C Ashton; T Flood, D Care; T Payne, S Thompson, D Cole, S Shaw, T Palmer, T Croft, L Moody (capt), N Easter.
Replacements: G Chuter, D Wilson, C Lawes, J Haskell, B Youngs, J Wilkinson, M Tait.

Australia team:
J O'Connor, D Ioane, R Horne, M Giteau, D Mitchell, Q Cooper, L Burgess; R Brown, D Pocock, R Elsom (capt), N Sharpe, D Mumm, S Ma'afu, S Faingaa, B Daley.
Replacements: H Edmonds, J Slipper, M Chisholm, M Hodgson, W Genia, B Barnes, K Beale.

Notts County boss Steve Cotterill is to leave the club when his contract ends on 30 May after failing to commit his future to the League Two champions

Cotterill, who joined the Magpies in February, said the decision to go was "one of the hardest of my career".

The 45-year-old is now being linked to managerless Portsmouth, having turned down an offer from Coventry.

Magpies chairman Ray Trew said he would begin the search for a replacement "with a heavy heart".

He added: "The job that Steve did for us here will live long in the memory of all Notts County fans and, as is a mark of all great managers, he leaves the club in a much better position than when he arrived.

"To his credit, Steve is a very ambitious manager and he feels that the time is right to take stock of his current situation before deciding upon his next career move, which I completely understand.

"Steve leaves Meadow Lane with my thanks and appreciation and in the hope that he may one day return to the club to manage us at the very highest level."

Cotterill joined County on a short-term contract in February and in April his side clinched promotion to League One.

He stated: "It has been a real pleasure working with such a fantastic group of people from the chairman and chief executive, players, the backroom staff, office workers and ground staff.

"The fans have been magnificent to me and I would like to thank everyone connected with the club for how they have received me since I've been here and wish them all the very best in the future

Pompey administrator Andrew Andronikou told BBC Radio Nottingham on Tuesday that Cotterill is one of eight or nine managers being considered for the vacant position at Fratton Park following the resignation of Avram Grant last week.

606: DEBATE
Does this mean Cotterill is about to become the next Portsmouth manager?

And Andronikou told the Nottingham Post: "His CV precedes him. He is the sort of motivator that our players need to take them forward.

"The fact he is out of contract at the end of the month is not a factor. We are looking for the right individual, not at their availability."

Goalkeeper David James, who has been offered a new contract by Portsmouth, has expressed a desire to take over as boss of the south-coast club.

Andronikou hinted that the England player was too inexperienced for the role but did say the 39-year-old would have an input into any final decision.

Cotterill started his managerial career in 1995, succeeding Lawrie Sanchez at Irish side Sligo before taking charge at Cheltenham two years later.

After five years at Whaddon Road he left for Stoke City but quickly left to become the assistant to Howard Wilkinson at Sunderland.

A three-year spell at Burnley then followed before Cotterill took charge at Meadow Lane.

His departure marks the latest twist in what has been a tumultuous season for the Magpies.

The club has been taken over twice, with former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson arriving as director of football and Sol Campbell signing as a free agent - although both men have now left Meadow Lane.

Cotterill is the third manager to part company with County in the past eight months, alongside Ian McParland and Hans Backe.

Mourinho a perfect fit for Real Madrid - Perez

Jose Mourinho's style of play will "fit in perfectly" at the Bernabeu, says Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.

Inter Milan boss Mourinho is expected to succeed coach Manuel Pellegrini, who was sacked by Real on Wednesday.

Mourinho, who guided Inter to a historic Treble this season, is considered to be a defensive coach.

But Perez countered: "Mourinho's style of play will fit with the history of Madrid. To win, the values, the spirit of sacrifice, it will fit perfectly."

Mourinho, who took over at Inter in 2008, became only the third man to win European club football's most prestigious competition with two different clubs when Inter beat Bayern Munich 2-0 in Saturday's Champions League final.

That success also assured the Nerazzuri's place in the history books as they became the first Italian team to win the Treble, having already retained the Serie A title and beaten Roma to lift the Italian Cup.

Mourinho is contracted to Inter until 2012 and so the 47-year-old former Chelsea manager must resolve his future at the San Siro before making any move.

Pellegrini's free-scoring Real side finished runners-up in the Spanish League this season, netting 102 goals in 38 games, with 60 of those strikes coming at home.

Mourinho has proven that he can make a team successful, something that two of the best players in the world (Ronaldo/Kaka) cannot do on their own

Chris_Kamara

But the 56-year-old Chilean was dismissed for failing to land any silverware, despite the Spanish giants having signed Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Karim Benzema and Xabi Alonso for a combined fee in excess of £196m in the summer of 2009.

In contrast, Mourinho's Inter side scored 75 goals in 38 games en route to their Serie A title and produced a defensive masterclass in their 3-2 aggregate win over Spanish champions Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final.

And now the man who brought unprecedented success to the Nerazzurri is set to become the 11th coach in the last seven years at the Bernabeu.

Perez, who is looking forward to a period of progression, added: "Madrid is betting on stability, the stability of the Madridistas is to win and be leaders in Europe.

"The change of coach is always difficult but we are convinced that after this first year and this first phase, now is the moment to give a fresh impulse to our project.

"A year ago there was a huge and unprecedented effort to configure and put together a squad capable of aspiring to the maximum.

"We have advanced a lot but we still have a lot of ground to cover.

"This club demands the maximum and is always in search of excellence. Winning and being leaders in Europe has always been the desire of our members and fans and, therefore, that's the objective of this board."

Mourinho has previously said his target is to become the first manager to win championships in England - where he won the Premier League twice with Chelsea - Italy and Spain.

And Perez has backed Mourinho to bring success to the Bernabeu.

"We believe that he is a coach that will add a lot to this important squad," Perez continued.

"The only one who has spoken to Inter president Massimo Moratti was me on Monday, but the parties are resolving a resolution [to his contract] in which we are not participating.

"My hope is that it will be resolved quickly and I believe it will be."