Philippa Kaur

More stories

  • 238 Shares149 Views

    in Soccer

    Man Utd ratings: Kobbie Mainoo and Shea Lacey bright sparks in dismal performance that sees Hojlund flop once again

    MANCHESTER UNITED’S stars thought their embarrassing season was over, but the ASEAN All Stars left them even more red-faced than Tottenham.The Red Devils cautiously plodded their way to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of the cobbled together Asian side in a humid 90 minute match in Kuala Lumpur.Manchester United lost 1-0 to ASEAN All-Stars in a lacklustre post-season tour performanceCredit: GettyUnited couldn’t break down the inferior oppositionCredit: GettyRuben Amorim gave 26 different players a run out in their un-needed post-season tour opener after the club’s worst ever Premier League campaign was wrapped up at the weekend.It was a goal from Maung Maung Lwin that was the difference as the All-Star side patiently waited for their chance against a lacklustre United showing.Amorim won’t be too upset at defeat in what is ultimately a glorified way of adding some pennies to his transfer kitty and getting a look at some youngsters on the books.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Hall rated the Man Utd performances…READ MORE ON MAN UTDANDRE ONANA – 6Had very little to do for the 45 minutes he played.Called upon once or twice and did enough to keep the opposition out.DIOGO DALOT – 3Really didn’t do anything of note in the half an hour he was on the pitch.Perhaps his biggest impact was regularly leaving the teenage centre-half next to him without any help.Most read in FootballNot his best showing at all.Diogo Dalot had little impact on the gameCredit: GettyHARRY MAGUIRE – 7Looked the most settled payer of the starting centre-back trio, which was no surprise as he lined up with 18-year-old’s either side of him.Took it upon himself to play some line-splitting passes in the knowledge that he was going to have step up alongside the teens for the short 31 minutes he played in.Hard to remember the last Maguire played as badly as people would like to tell you he does – consistently solid.AYDEN HEAVEN – 7After 30 minutes Heaven became the most experienced centre-back on the pitch for United – he’s 18.The former Arsenal man was confident enough to step into that role and looks like a talent for the future.Used his body very well and was always the first of the back line of defenders to react to any loose ball in United’s own final third.REECE MUNRO – 4Showed his inexperience with some cheap fouls in the opening 10 minutes when players were able to skip past him.The 18-year-old also failed to close down the all-stars attack quickly enough on a number of occasions.PATRICK DORGU – 7Perhaps the only first-term player that looked like he wanted to play at the intensity of a competitive match.The wing-back was regularly caning down the flank to try and get in behind, as well as tracking back to try and win the ball.Since he’s come in to United in January it’s been hard to say he’s been used properly by his manager or his teammates, but the signs are there that he could succeed next term.Patrick Dorgu was one of few United players to put in the effort over the matchCredit: AFPCASEMIRO – 6This was a game played at a pace suited to a player like Casemiro, slow build up that gives him time to make an impact.Unfortunately, nobody was moving off the ball to allow him to do so.Substituted on 31 minutes ahead of his return to the Brazil squad.KOBBIE MAINOO – 8A special moment for the midfielder who was handed the captain’s armband when Harry Maguire was subbed off.His feet are always impressive and he looked one of the more likely players to make something happen.That final finish and end product weren’t quite there today, but that’s to be expected in such an unusual friendly situation.Kobbie Mainoo was impressive on the ballCredit: ReutersMANUEL UGARTE – 6Advancing the ball much quicker than he has been since joining United.Played a few nice sweeping passes out wide to try and get the wing-backs in behind.United fans will be hoping they see more progression from his next seasonJACK MOORHOUSE – 6Looked comfortable on the ball every time it came to him.Clearly very confident in possession and looking to make things happen from central positions.Unfortunately there was only 30 minutes to look at the 19-year-old, hopefully he will get a chance to shine against Hong Kong later this week.RASMUS HOJLUND – 2If there was ever an example of how important confidence is then the first half of this match showed it.As much as some people might tell you differently, Hojlund is definitely better than the level he was facing today.However, he didn’t show it. The out-of-form striker was regularly losing possession and rarely got into a position to even receive the ball in a dangerous position, never mind scoring.He’s better than that, but with his confidence so low you won’t see it any time soon.Rasmus Hojlund struggled once again, despite playing against such poor oppositionCredit: GettySUBSSHEA LACEY – 7Silky footwork and a willingness to get forward, Shea Lacey looks like he could be a bright spark for the future at Old Trafford.When teams find themselves in dire situations it’s often academy prospects that step up and shine – think Bukayo Saka at Arsenal, Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham at Chelsea and Pedri and Gavi at a cash-strapped Barcelona.That’s not to say that Lacey will follow in their footsteps, but he looks like he has enough talent to have a crack at breaking into this struggling United side.That said, he did only play 14 minutes.Shea Lacey was impressive in the short stint he had on the pitchCredit: GettyBRUNO FERNANDES – 8Even when the best players aren’t trying they still manage to show their class. Bruno Fernandes wasn’t trying to force the issue like he normally has to in this Man Utd team, but still managed some classy moments and silky touches – notably a Rabona pass to Alejandro Garnacho.The debate will run on in the coming weeks about if Fernandes is going to leave for Saudi Arabia.It’s safe to say that if he does leave, United will be losing their best player by some margin.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6He’s been told he can leave the club – but not before being made to play 45 minutes of painfully dull football in 30 degree heat in Kuala Lumpur.A few decent runs in behind and a bit of flair against his opposite number flattered to deceive. Most players didn’t want to play this game – never mind one that is very unlikely to be coming back after the summer break.JONNY EVANS – 5Didn’t cover himself in glory when the All-Stars got their goal, leaving his young centre-back partner Godwill Kukonki to cover the goalscorer all alone.Evans is essentially using this tour as a farewell tour given his impending exit from the club.TOBY COLLYER – 7Collyer has been one of the Carrington stars that has been in and around the first team for a while, and it’s obvious why.He looks like he’s ready to make a more regular step up to first team football and could be a part of the squad rotations under Amorim next season. It’s not just his confidence on the ball, but his ability to help win it back too that makes him an exciting prospect.AMAD DIALLO – 6Amad knows he’s been one of the few bright sparks for United this season and he played like it too. It wasn’t his usual display of blistering pace and hard work, but rather a tame effort to help the team while avoiding injury.Not his best, but not his worst.CHIDO OBI – 5Much has been made of the goal-scoring youngster since his high-profile move from Arsenal this season.While he found himself in a few good positions throughout the second half, Obi was often unable to get the ball out of his feet quick enough to get off a meaningful shot.Once he sorts that out he could be really dangerous.JIM THWAITES – 7At just 17 years old, Jim Thwaites had to be the one to prevent United from falling to a 2-0 defeat to their minnow opponents.The youngster bust a lung to get back in the final minute and pull off a sensational slide tackle to prevent a certain goal.Read More on The SunOther substitutions included… Jayden Kamason, Daniel Armer, Sekou Kone, Tyler Fletcher, Godwill Kukonki, Tom Heaton, Tyler Fredricson. More

  • 213 Shares149 Views

    in Soccer

    ASEAN All-Stars 1 Man Utd 0: United humiliated by Asian minnows in miserable start to post-season tour

    MANCHESTER UNITED suffered an embarrassing 1-0 defeat to makeshift Asian side ASEAN All-Stars.Ruben Amorim named a strong XI in Malaysia three days after United’s shock 2-0 win over Aston Villa on the final day of the season at Old Trafford on Sunday.Man Utd suffered a shock loss to ASEAN All-StarsCredit: APRuben Amorim named a strong line-up for the matchCredit: GettyMaung Maung Lwin scored the decisive goalCredit: MUTVBut yet again, the majority of players etched their name into the chopping block in the sweltering 30 degree heat in Kuala Lumpur.After suffering the ultimate humiliation of losing to Tottenham in the Europa League final a week ago, United lost the Maybank Challenge Cup on Wednesday.Nearly 70,000 fans, most wearing Man Utd scarves and hats, came to see their favourite Premier League stars, with the club visiting for the first time since 2009.After a cagey start, it was the visitors who were on top, enjoying the best chances.READ MORE ON MAN UTDCambodia’s Coulibaly Abdel Kader slipped a pass down the outside of Ayden Heaven and Harry Maguire for a bright Nguyen Hai Long to run onto.Nguyen was just about offside when he whipped a left-footed shot just wide of Andre Onana’s post, but the dangers were clear.Amorim appeared like he could barely watch at times, looking down at the turf while Nguyen got in behind again.Onana was the first keeper to be called into action when he got down low to stop Sandro Reyes’ shot from 18 yards after dopey work from Manuel Ugarte and youngster Reece Munro.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordASEAN All-Stars celebrated with a team photo after the goalCredit: AFPAmorim had seen enough. The Portuguese gaffer made his first four subs in the 30th minute, with the shirts sticking and sweat pumping from United’s XI.United’s first shot on target came three minutes later when Kobbie Mainoo’s effort was curled wide by keeper Khammai. Mainoo had another cleared off the line before half-time.Man Utd players ride open-top bus through Malaysia during post-season tour of AsiaThe four teenagers injected pace and youth, with Sekou Kone and Shea Lacey particularly impressive in their short cameos.Half-time brought 11 changes from Amorim.Alejandro Garnacho, at the centre of a blazing row with his manager after his post-Europa League final comments, received a huge applause from fans.But the game was at walking pace now.Garnacho and Amad Diallo brought more quality, but United were knackered against a side made up of different teams from Asia.And before long, tragedy struck for Amorim in the 71st minute with United hit on the break.A diagonal pass from left to right by Adrian Segecic caught Godwill Kukonki napping and Maung Maung Lwin stormed through the inside-right and buried his shot past Tom Heaton.United’s best – and only – piece of quality came through Bruno Fernandes’ long ball over the top to Garnacho, who was frustrated to find NO-ONE in the box.The home side, who celebrated with a team photo after scoring, almost doubled their lead at the death if it wasn’t for 17-year-old Jim Thwaites. Read More on The SunSegecic, who laid on the assist for the opener, was set to pull the trigger until Thwaites recovered with a goal-saving challenge.How low can you go? United keep proving more heartbreak is to come.Ruben Amorim was left stunnedCredit: Reuters More

  • 225 Shares109 Views

    in Soccer

    Matheus Cunha given savage new nickname after Man Utd try to pay £62.5million transfer fee in five instalments

    MANCHESTER UNITED target Matheus Cunha has been given a savage new nickname – and it is not even his fault.The Wolves star is subject to a transfer bid from the Red Devils.Matheus Cunha has been given a new nicknameCredit: Shutterstock EditorialHe has a buyout clause worth £62.5million which United are prepared to meet.However they have seen a bid knocked back after attempting to pay the fee in five instalments, with Wolves demanding it is paid in full by the end of the 2026-27 campaign.Wolves’ rejection of the deal structure has been made public knowledge and has been met with mockery by fans.One fan likened United’s approach to a consumer buying a product with online financial service company Klarna, which allows buyers to pay using instalments.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAs a result, one supporter came up with a clever nickname for Cunha: Matheus Klarna.Other fans found the joke highly amusing, with one responding: “Tweet of the day easily.”Another added: “Very clever 😀”And a third wrote: “Absolutely fantastic.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSCunha signed a new Wolves contract – which included the new release clause – in February after receiving interest from both Arsenal and United.But he has reportedly agreed a five-year deal to move to Old Trafford and will take Marcus Rashford’s No10 shirt.Rasmus Hojlund leaves Man Utd fans unimpressed in training video with AngrygingeCunha struck 17 goals and six assists in 36 outings this term.While Rashford is expected to leave United and his representatives have met with Barcelona over a permanent transfer. More

  • 263 Shares179 Views

    in Soccer

    Chelsea vs Real Betis LIVE SCORE: Conference League final updates as Jackson told he will START in Poland – stream FREE

    THE final of the Conference League will take place TONIGHT – and it promises to be a thriller.Chelsea face Real Betis in the Wroclaw showpiece as the Blues look to make history by becoming the first club to win all four of the major Uefa club competitions that have existed.The West Londoners will be mixing it with Europe’s elite next term after securing Champions League qualification against Nottingham Forest on Sunday, but Enzo Maresca will want to cap off his first season at the helm with a trophy.Betis will be playing in the Europa League one way or another after their LaLiga finish, but in-form Antony and Co would love to secure the Spaniards their first European trophy.Kick-off time: 8pm BSTTV channel: TNT Sports 1FREE live stream: discovery+Chelsea XI: team to follow…Real Betis XI: team to follow…CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Real Betis predicted XICedric Bakambu is expected to lead the line as the 34-year-old looks to add to the seven goals he has scored so far this term in the Conference League.Former Tottenham star Giovani Lo Celso is a doubt, but he trained yesterday, so he could be fit enough to start, which would allow Pablo Fornals to go on the left flank.Youssouf Salby is expected to start at right-back due to the injury-stricken Hector Bellerin.Copy linkCopiedMudryk turns up in Chelsea kit to Maresca’s surpriseMykhailo Mudryk is back in a Chelsea kit again after turning up unannounced at the Conference League final.Head coach Enzo Maresca was taken by surprise when informed the troubled Ukrainian winger had popped up in Poland after months in the wilderness.Mudryk is currently suspended from playing after testing positive for the banned substance meldonium while on international duty in November.But it did not stop him making his own way to Wroclaw where he was spotted by fans wearing a club tracksuit in a steakhouse.It’s believed he told them he is here to collect a medal after the final against Real Betis.Maresca appeared caught off guard when it was put to him that the £62million wideman was in town.He said: “To be honest, I just… Is he here or is he coming? He’s here. I’m happy for Misha to be here.”I don’t know, I just said that. I’m happy for Misha to be here.”Banned Mykhailo Mudryk turns up in Chelsea kit unannounced on eve of Conference League final to shock of clubCopy linkCopiedChelsea’s stunning European final historyChelsea have reached seven Uefa finals in their history, winning six of them.The Blues’ first European triumph came in 1971 when they beat Real Madrid 2-1 in a replay of the final to win the Cup Winners’ Cup.Chelsea made it two from two in 1998 as Gianfranco Zola’s famous goal secured a 1-0 win over Stuttgart in the Cup Winners’ Cup final.The Londoners’ perfect run came to an end in 2008 when the Blues lost to Manchester United on penalties in the Champions League final.In 2012, Chelsea defied the odds and lifted their first Champions League trophy by beating Bayern Munich on spot kicks.12 months later, the Blues made it back-to-back European trophies when they defeated Benfica 2-1 in the Europa League final following their early Champions League exit.In 2019, Chelsea added a second Europa League title with an emphatic 4-1 win over London rivals Arsenal in the final.Finally, in 2021, the Blues returned to the top of European football after they beat Manchester City to be crowned Champions League winners for the second time.Copy linkCopiedChelsea predicted XINicolas Jackson is expected to slot straight back in up top after missing the last two Premier League games of the season due to suspension.That will allow Pedro Neto to play in his more natural position out wide.With Romeo Lavia ineligible, Moises Caicedo will likely play in a midfield two with Enzo Fernandez, with Reece James coming in at right-back.Maresca could opt to start the likes of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Tyrique George after impressing in both legs of the semi-final.Copy linkCopiedCrazy scenesSome more scenes from the street brawl in Poland.Copy linkCopiedStreet battleViolence has broken out again on the streets of Poland between Chelsea and Real Betis fans in ugly scenes ahead of their Conference League final tonight.Supporters were seen hurling punches and kicks, launching bottles and smoke grenades near the fanzone in Wroclaw with riot police forced to defuse the violence.he ugly scenes continues after similar violence yesterday when tear gas was needed to separate the hostile fans.Betis fans are looking forward to their first ever major European final, with a red hot atmosphere in Poland boiling over into a full on brawl this afternoon.Supermarket shelves are running dry of beer and pubs are out of pint glasses as fans soak in the atmosphere ahead of the final.And six hours before kickoff tonight, the violence spilled over when fans started kicking and throwing flares into each other’s camps.Copy linkCopiedAtmosphere buildingCredit: ReutersCredit: GettyCredit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedEyes on the prizeReal Betis and Chelsea will contest tonight’s final, already knowing their European fates are sealed.The Blues will be playing Champions League football next season after they secured a top-five finish in the Premier League, while the Spaniards have already qualified for the Europa League with a 6th placed finish in LaLiga.This means the two sides are just playing for the right to win a European trophy – and the cash prize that comes with it…Uefa have revealed that the winners of this year’s Conference League will take home a staggering £5.9million.While the runners-up are set to pocket approximately £3.37m.Here is the full breakdown:Winner: £5.90mRunner-up: £3.37mSemi-finalists: £2.11mQuarter-finalists: £1.10mRound of 16: £674,135Reaching knockout round play-off: £168,533League-phase wins: £337,067League-phase draws: £112,075Copy linkCopiedEXCLUSIVE: Jackson to STARTNicolas Jackson has been told he will start for Chelsea in tonight’s Conference League Final.The striker is desperate to make amends for getting sent off at Newcastle 17 days ago.He is currently serving a three-match domestic ban and will miss the first game of the next Premier League season as a result.But Blues boss Enzo Maresca has been making his final team selection ahead of this evening’s clash with Real Betis and Jackson is in.Maresca told the media last night that Jackson is ‘in debt’ to his team mate’s over his red card.Jackson was sent off in the first half at St.James’ Park and ten man Chelsea went down 2-0 leaving their Champions League hopes on a knifedge.But they recovered in his absence to seal a top four finish with Sunday’s 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest.Copy linkCopiedMoment Chelsea and Real Betis fans CLASH in PolandViolence has broken out again on the streets of Poland between Chelsea and Real Betis fans in ugly scenes ahead of their Conference League final tonight.Supporters were seen hurling punches, kicking, launching bottles and smoke grenades near the fanzone in Wroclaw, with riot police forced to defuse the violence.Moment Chelsea & Real Betis fans CLASH in Poland launching bottles & smoke grenades hours before Europa Conference finalCopy linkCopiedRain coming down in WroclawCredit: PACredit: PACopy linkCopiedMaresca ahead of Conference League finalEnzo Maresca discussed the importance of coming home with the trophy ahead of tonight’s showpiece, he said “The message over the last 48 hours has been, ‘We did something important [qualifying for the Champions League], but if we want to confirm that we are becoming an important club again, we need to show the desire to win the game and the trophy’.“So it’s job done [in the Premier League], fantastic, and we’re happy. But tomorrow is a different game, a final, and we want to win at any cost.“Every day we have something to prove, no doubt. What we have done [qualifying for the Champions League] is done. Now we have to prove ourselves again tomorrow.“We have played many games this season in this competition, now we have just one more.“For sure, for me personally [there is something to prove], but the message to the players is exactly same. Every day is a chance to improve, and we want to compete for titles.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedReal dealAntony has enjoyed a stunning spell at Real Betis since joining the LaLiga outfit on loan from Manchester United at the end of January.The Brazilian winger has been a revelation in Spain and played an instrumental part in Betis’ run to the Conference League final. In the 25 matches Antony has featured in since his arrival from Manchester, the Spanish side have won 13, drawn eight and lost just four.The 25-year-old has scored nine goals and made five assists, including scoring in both legs of Betis’ stunning Conference League semi-final win over Fiorentina.The Spanish side want to keep Antony at the club on a permanent basis, with Man Utd reportedly wanting around £30-£35m this summer.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedReal Betis team newsFormer Arsenal star Hector Bellerin is expected to miss tonight’s final after he picked up a hamstring injury in the semi-finals second leg with Fiorentina.Marc Roca, Diego Llorente and Chimy Avila are also confirmed absentees.Former Tottenham midfielder Giovani Lo Celso is a doubt due to muscle discomfort, but the Argentine did train yesterday.Youssouf Sabaly and Johnny Cardoso are available after shaking off minor knocks.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedChelsea fans making themselves heard in WroclawCredit: AFPCredit: PACredit: PACopy linkCopiedChelsea team news Chelsea are boosted by the return of striker Nicolas Jackson after he missed the last two games of the Premier League season due to suspension.Maresca has had more positive news in the forward areas with Christopher Nkunku back from a knock.Romeo Lavia will be forced to miss out as Chelsea are unable to add him to their squad list for tonight’s final.Elsewhere, Wesley Fofana, Omari Kellyman and Mykhaylo Mudryk are all unavailable.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGood afternoon and welcome to SunSport’s live blog of the Conference League final!Chelsea and Real Betis go head-to-head in tonight’s showpiece in Wroclaw.The Blues have already secured their spot in the Champions League next season, so there is less riding on this final than there could have been if the West London outfit lost to Nottingham Forest on Sunday and results elsewhere went against them.That said, Enzo Maresca’s side can make history this evening by becoming the first side to win all four of the major Uefa club competitions that have existed.Meanwhile, Premier League winner Manuel Pellegrini is looking to lead Real Betis to the first European trophy in the club’s history.Like Chelsea, Betis’ European fate has already been sealed regardless of tonight’s result, as they finished 6th in LaLiga, which has already qualified them for next season’s Europa League.Copy linkCopied More

  • 225 Shares139 Views

    in Soccer

    Nicolas Jackson told he WILL start Chelsea’s Conference League final with Real Betis after serving red card ban

    NICOLAS JACKSON has been told he will start for Chelsea in tonight’s Conference League Final.The striker is desperate to make amends for getting sent off at Newcastle 17 days ago.Nicolas Jackson will start the Europa Conference League final against Real BetisCredit: ReutersThe 23-year-old hasn’t played since picking up a red card against Newcastle earlier this monthCredit: GettyHe is currently serving a three-match domestic ban and will miss the first game of the next Premier League season as a result.But Blues boss Enzo Maresca has been making his final team selection ahead of this evening’s clash with Real Betis.And Jackson will be included in the starting XI in Wroclaw. Jackson was sent off in the first half of the huge showdown at St James’ Park.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe 23-year-old threw an elbow at Newcastle star Sven Botman, with replays showing he was watching the defender’s movement before glancing away and striking him in the face.Ten-man Chelsea went down 2-0, leaving their Champions League hopes on a knife-edge.But they recovered in his absence to seal a top-four finish with Sunday’s 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest.Maresca told the media last night that Jackson is “in debt” to his team-mate’s over his red card.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAnd the Blues boss revealed the Senegalese international had apologised following the incident. Maresca said: “I think Nico is in debt with his team-mates. Fuming Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca delivers two-word X-rated response to critics in fiery press conference”And the reason why is because in that moment, Newcastle away was for us the most important game. “And he left his teammates with ten players for one hour.”So for sure he’s in debt. For sure he’s a good guy. For sure he recognised the mistake. CHELSEA VS REAL BETIS – CONFERENCE LEAGUE FINAL LIVEBETTING TIPS AND FREE BETS FOR THE FINAL”He apologised to his teammates. That is very important. “And I’m sure that [in the final] he’s going to do a very good game for us.” More

  • 238 Shares109 Views

    in Soccer

    Moment Chelsea & Real Betis fans CLASH in Poland launching bottles & smoke grenades hours before Europa Conference final

    VIOLENCE has broken out again on the streets of Poland between Chelsea and Real Betis fans in ugly scenes ahead of their Conference League final tonight.Supporters were seen hurling punches and kicks, launching bottles and smoke grenades near the fanzone in Wroclaw with riot police forced to defuse the violence.Fans clash in ugly scenes in Poland ahead of the Europa Conference FinalCredit: AFPSupporters were seen hurling punches, kicking, launching bottles and smoke grenadesCredit: AFPFans hurled flares at each other on the streetSome officers were deployed with guns to quell the violenceCredit: ReutersTables and chairs were thrown to the floorCredit: EPAThe ugly scenes continues after similar violence yesterday when tear gas was needed to separate the hostile fans. One Spaniard was arrested and police are attempting to identify more fans involved in a scuffle last night.Betis fans are looking forward to their first ever major European final, with tensions boiling over into a full on brawl this afternoon.Supermarket shelves are running dry of beer and pubs are out of pint glasses as fans soak up the atmosphere ahead of the final.And six hours before kickoff tonight, the violence spilled over when fans started kicking and throwing flares into each other’s camps.Soon, chairs were hurtling through the air as the fans squared up to each other before police, some armed with guns, came to separate them.The fans were already brawling on the streets a full 24 hours before the match as riot police with tear gas were deployed yesterday to force the warring supporters apart.Footage posted to social media showed a series of fierce clashes in cobbled streets outside the city’s bars and restaurants.Most read in FootballShocking moment Chelsea fans brawl & throw glasses as violence erupts in Poland ahead of Conference League finalIn one clip, a group of around five young men were seen smashing chairs and hurling glasses at another group sheltering in the canopy of a building.In the window is a large blue flag which reads: “London only”, indicating it could be a spot designated for Chelsea fans.Another clip from elsewhere shows two sides lobbing missiles at one another from the cover of two different pubs.More than 70,000 fans are expected to descend on the picturesque town of Wroclaw to watch The Blues try to take the title tonight.Last week’s Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur was also marred by clashes between supporters ahead of the match in Bilbao.Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said: “Zero tolerance for violence on our streets!”I thank the police for their decisive actions against the hooligans in Chelsea and Betis shirts in Wroclaw. We warn you: if necessary, the police will be even more ruthless today!”Fans of the London side will be hoping their team isn’t distracted by the drama – with the honour of being the first-ever club to win all three European titles on the line.Chelsea booked their place by defeating Swedish side Djurgardens IF 5-1 on aggregate earlier this month.Earlier, head coach Enzo Maresca got a shock when his banned winger Mykhailo Mudryk arrived in the city unannounced – and wearing a Chelsea kit.Mudryk is currently suspended from playing after testing positive for the banned substance meldonium while on international duty in November.Chelsea fans have descended in the Polish city for the European finalCredit: ReutersChairs were hurling through the skyOne man was seen getting attacked with blood pouring down his faceCredit: AFPThe fans were already brawling on the streets a full 24 hours before the matchCredit: ReutersPolice positioned themselves between the hostile fansCredit: AFPAfter missiles were launched into the neighbouring camps, Polish police managed to separate the fansCredit: ReutersThe ugly scenes continues after similar violence yesterday when tear gas was needed to separate the hostile fansCredit: ReutersTables were launched in the violent scenes hours before the matchCredit: ReutersMen were seen fleeing as police came armed with truncheonsCredit: AFPThe streets were strewn with litter and chairsA fan poses in front of police amid the high tensionsCredit: ReutersThe Blues will be playing Champions League football next season after they secured a top-five finish in the Premier League.While the Spaniards have already qualified for the Europa League with a 6th placed finish in LaLiga.This means the two sides are just playing for the right to win a European trophy – and the cash prize that comes with it.Read More on The SunUefa have revealed that the winners of this year’s Conference League will take home a staggering £5.9million.While the runners-up are set to pocket approximately £3.37m.A chair can be seen flying through the airCredit: XGroups lobbed missiles at each other across the squareCredit: x
    Police spray jets of tear gas at Chelsea fansCredit: APChelsea fans were out in force on Tuesday nightCredit: APHEDGE YOUR BET-S Chelsea vs Real Betis tale of the tape: How Conference League finalists compareCHELSEA are on the brink of history as they prepare to take on Real Betis in the Conference League final.Enzo Maresca will clash with “football dad” and former boss Manuel Pellegrini when the two sides collide in Warsaw on Wednesday.And a win for Chelsea will see them become the first-ever team to win all three major European competitions.They face a tough test in Betis though, with the Spanish side boasting strong names including Isco, Antony and Gio Lo Celso.Here, SunSport compares the two sides for what is sure to be a lively clash in Poland.But just who will come out on top?SEASON SUCCESSWith both sides reaching the Conference League final, neither side can say they have fallen short in Europe.Yet they have also enjoyed good club campaigns – to an extent.Chelsea at one stage looked on course to challenge Liverpool for the Premier League title before a dramatic Christmas collapse.The Blues then faced a tough challenge to qualify for the Champions League.They eventually sealed a return to Europe’s top table on Sunday with victory over fellow challengers Nottingham Forest.And although they ultimately achieved their season goal, Chelsea undoubtedly made a meal out of it.As for Betis, they too enjoyed mixed fortunes in LaLiga.They ended up finishing sixth, sealing their place in next season’s Europa League regardless of the outcome of Wednesday’s final.However, fifth place in Spain would have been enough for Champions League football.Betis ended up finishing 10 points behind Villarreal and Athletic Bilbao, who took the last two spots.And although Europa League qualification will be welcomed by them, they surely would have loved to have been in the Champions League instead.BEST PLAYERSChelsea’s squad is worth a whole £627MILLION MORE than Betis’ – but there is always one man who stands head and shoulders above his teammates.Despite not enjoying the same success as he did in the 2023/24 campaign, Cole Palmer undoubtedly remains Chelsea’s star player and danger man.The midfielder has taken up a deeper role in a more central position under Maresca, allowing him to dictate more of the play.Palmer’s brilliant technique and vision means he is often the one keeping Chelsea ticking over in possession as teammates look to make darting runs through the lines.And if the Blues are to take control on Wednesday, he will need to be at his mercurial best once again – regardless of whether he scores or assists in the process.As for Betis, they have been inspired in the second half of the season by a Premier League misfit.Brazilian winger Antony, on loan from Manchester United, has been nothing short of a revelation since moving to Spain.He has a smile on his face again after hitting the goal regularly, with fans also showing their appreciation and adoration.A permanent transfer now looks on the cards this summer.And Antony will be desperate to reward the faith shown by Betis by guiding them to glory in Warsaw.TACTICSChelsea have adopted a possession-based style since Maresca’s arrival last summer, with players instructed to keep the ball moving as they inch their way forward to goal.Lining up in a 4-2-3-1 system, the Blues quickly become a fluid unit as players drift out of their regular positions to line up in a 3-2-4-1 shape.Whether it has been a raging success is up for debate, with Chelsea sometimes left exposed at the back while also failing to get enough players into the box to finish off a move.But Maresca’s system has built some team unity, with his unquestionable plan on the pitch making the Blues a strong cohesive force when it finally clicks.MANAGERSChelsea’s Italian gaffer Enzo Maresca has one of the safest seats in football – and that was before he sealed a top four finish on Sunday.The ex-Leicester man was brought in to Stamford Bridge to provide stability while also moulding Chelsea’s youngsters into English football’s next great team.Despite reservations over his playing style, fans appear to have finally taken to Maresca thanks to his calm approach and desire to win.The former Man City coach isn’t the most experienced either.But with time on his side, a trophy win in his debut season will only strengthen his position in the Chelsea hot seat.As for Manuel Pellegrini, he has now been at Betis for nearly five years.Having enjoyed most of his success at Man City, the Chilean has helped build Betis into plucky underdogs.Pellegrini broke their trophy curse by guiding them to the 2022 Copa del Rey.And he remains a wildly popular figure with fans and players alike, having resurrected the careers of fallen men like Isco and Antony.Pellegrini also knows Chelsea boss Maresca well, having coached him at Malaga before appointing him as assistant boss at West Ham.And it should be a fascinating battle between the pair, with Maresca warmly branding Pellegrini his “football father.” More

  • 213 Shares109 Views

    in Soccer

    Rio Ferdinand potential career moves after leaving TNT Sports as Man Utd legend looks to ‘next chapter’

    RIO FERDINAND is officially a free agent having left his role at TNT Sports.The former Manchester United and England defender was part of the broadcaster’s commentary and punditry team for a DECADE.Rio Ferdinand has left his role at TNT SportsCredit: ALAMYThe former Manchester United and England star has revealed his next moveCredit: GETTYBut the 46-year-old has decided to move on to pastures new by not renewing his contract.An emotional social media post read: “After 10 incredible years, I have made the difficult decision to step away from TNT Sports after the Champions League final.“Since retiring from football, it has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching on BT Sports and TNT Sports.“I want to acknowledge the tremendous support from the team behind the scenes, whose hard work often goes unseen, but has been essential to our success.READ MORE ON RIO FERDINAND“To everyone at TNT Sports, we have a brilliant end to the season to look forward to on Saturday, and for now all focus will be on what I think could go down as one of the great European finals.“The network continues to thrive with more rights than ever, and I look forward to following its progress and the exciting future that lies ahead.“Lastly, I would like to thank my family and my management company New Era for their ongoing support.“They have supported me to travel all over Europe, following the best players and watching the best matches. For a football fan like me, it’s been a dream come true.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSRio Ferdinand is looking forward to the ‘next chapter’ of his lifeCredit: ALAMY“As I turn the page to the next chapter. I carry with me countless memories.”Ferdinand will have plenty of time on his hands now that he’s no longer bound to TNT Sport’s hectic schedule.Rio Ferdinand calls out Roy Keane and Gary Neville’s takes on Man Utd vs Man City The pundit plans to spend his free time with his family, as well as focusing on his podcast and other “interests”.So what will Rio be up to now..?Full-time podcastingDespite being incredibly busy with TNT for the last decade, Ferdinand has managed to cultivate a massive podcast.His ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents’ podcast, which was previously called ‘Vibe with Five’, has over 1.3 MILLION subscribers on YouTube and thousands of listeners on Apple and Spotify.The podcasting world is an extremely lucrative one, so Ferdinand would be foolish not to use his massive platform and standing in the game to cash in on a potential post-career goldmine.The Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast has over 1.3 million subscribers on YouTubeCredit: RIO FERDINAND PRESENTSPunditryAlthough Ferdinand plans to focus on his other interests, an immediate move to one of TNT’s rivals isn’t off the cards.Sky Sports have just freed up a boatload of cash by culling multiple presenters and reporters in a wave of redundancies.And it could be used to finance a potential swoop for Ferdinand, who would draw huge numbers along with former England team-mates Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher.A move to the BBC could also be on the cards following Gary Lineker’s departure from Match of the Day.Ferdinand is no stranger to a bit of Beeb punditry having worked for the national broadcaster during multiple international tournaments, including Euro 2024.Rio Ferdinand was part of the BBC’s coverage of Euro 2024Credit: BBCCharity workFerdinand could use his downtime to focus on the ‘Rio Ferdinand Foundation’, which he set up back in 2012.The foundation was set up with the goal of creating opportunities for young people in impoverished areas and has been a huge success.RestaurantsFerdinand entered the restaurant world in 2009, opening Rosso Restaurant & Bar in Manchester’s city centre.But Rosso, which was visited by A-listers galore, closed its doors after 15 years of service back in September 2023.Ferdinand could look to revive the defunct restaurant or open a new one.Although given the volatile nature of the culinary world, he may decide against returning to the industry.BoxingFerdinand tried to become a professional boxer following his retirement in 2015 but was denied a license by the British Boxing Board of Control.Ferdinand immediately gave up on his dreams of becoming a pugilist after the BBBofC’s huge knockdown, although he could reignite them now that he has plenty of time on his hands.Read More on The SunInfluencer boxing promotion Misfits Boxing would no doubt jump at the opportunity to get Ferdinand in the ring as they recently did with his former United and QPR team-mate Danny Simpson.But they would likely have to break the bank to get him to lace up his gloves so late into his forties.Rio Ferdinand could give boxing a go following his departureCredit: INSTAGRAM@RIOFERDY5 More

  • 225 Shares99 Views

    in Soccer

    ‘That’s broken me’ – Mark Goldbridge convinced his wife is having affair as he breaks down on stream

    MARK GOLDBRIDGE admitted “that’s broken me” after being jokingly convinced his wife was having an affair live on stream.The incident, which was actually a hilarious misunderstanding on his part, occurred while broadcasting to thousands of fans.Mark Goldbridge was jokingly convinced his wife was having an affairCredit: YouTube / The United Stand More