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      Maguire only player to miss England training, Benzema injury LATEST, Spain vs Sweden under threat – Euro 2020 LIVE

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      HARRY MAGUIRE was the only absentee from England training as Gareth Southgate’s men prepared for their Euro 2020 opener against Croatia.We’ve the very latest on Karim Benzema’s injury after the Frenchman was injured in their warm-up win over Bulgaria.
      And things aren’t looking much better for Spain after the whole squad went into isolation following a positive Covid test for Sergio Busquets.

      Follow all of the latest news, build up and updates below…
      BENZEMA BOOST
      Real Madrid star Karim Benzema looks likely to compete at Euro 2020 despite the knock he suffered against Bulgaria.
      Benzema sustained a knee injury and hobbled off the pitch in tears, which raised concern over his fitness ahead of the summer’s Euros.
      However, France manager Didier Deschamps is confident the star striker is going to be fit in time for Tuesday’s opener against Germany.
      Journalist Mohamed Bouhafsi backed Deschamps’ claims as he said there is “no worry” for Benzema who will return to training in 72 hours at the latest.
      Bouhafsi tweeted: “No worries for KB9! Karim’s muscle deflated that night and the pain was less. Nevertheless, the star of #Real was not scheduled to train this Wednesday. He will resume his training path within 48 to 72 hours maximum”
      Pas d’inquiétude pour KB9 ! Le muscle de Karim #Benzema a dégonflé cette nuit et la douleur était moins importante. Néanmoins, la star du #Real ne devait pas s’entraîner ce mercredi. Il va reprendre le chemin de l’entraînement d’ici 48 à 72 heures maximum. #RMCsport— Mohamed Bouhafsi (@mohamedbouhafsi) June 9, 2021

      SCOTLAND PREDICTION
      Stuart McCall has predicted which Scotland aces are going to stand out at Euro 2020.
      McCall believes the likes of Arsenal star Kieran Tierney, Manchester United player Scott McTominay and Liverpool ace Andy Robertson are going to shine bright.
      He told Not the Old Firm: “I think the good thing is looking at the squad, it’s quite young.
      “We have four top class players – Andy Robertson at Liverpool, Kieran Tierney at Arsenal, John McGinn at Aston Villa and Scott McTominay at Manchester United – and they are all quite young”
      BR-ITE PROSPECT
      Arsenal have joined the transfer race for Brighton ace Ben White during the summer transfer window.
      According to the Daily Mirror, Gunners manager Mikel Arteta is a “big admirer” of White after his impressive Premier League campaign with the Seagulls.
      The centre-back amassed 39 appearances across all competitions and earned an England call-up by Gareth Southgate ahead of Euro 2020.
      However, the 23-year-old has also attracted interest from the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham and Manchester United
      LUKE OUT
      England manager Gareth Southgate is considering using Manchester United star Luke Shaw at centre-back.
      That is according to the Daily Telegraph, who claim Southgate is facing a defensive dilemma ahead of Sunday’s Euro 2020 opener against Croatia.
      Southgate is reluctant on using a four-man defence without the injured Harry Maguire, who is still recovering from an ankle injury.
      Therefore, the Three Lions head coach is thinking about deploying a back-three with Shaw at left centre-back next to John Stones and Kyle Walker
      COAD HIM REVED UP
      Wolves captain Conor Coady revealed that England boss Gareth Southgate’s speech before the tournament gave him “goosebumps”.
      Coady told talkSPORT: “The whole talk from the gaffer and what we talked about was incredible.
      “It was something we didn’t expect. It gave me goosebumps watching the video and hearing him. He spoke about our own legacy and creating memories for people of this country.
      “What we’ve all been through this year and what we’re all looking forward to now over what we hope is the next four or five weeks. He spoke about the sun shining on ourselves”
      GETTY IMAGES
      TRIPPIER BID REJECTED
      Manchester United have submitted a bid for Atletico Madrid ace Kieran Trippier.
      However, Atletico have rejected United’s opening offer for the former Tottenham player.
      That is according to Football Insider, who report the Red Devils offered roughly £10million for the England international.
      Reports suggest the Manchester giants have been keeping tabs on the right-back as head coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is considering trying Aaron Wan-Bissaka in central defence
      CROATIA STANCE
      Croatia do not intend to take a knee ahead of Sunday’s Euro 2020 opener against England.
      That is according to The Athletic, who claim the 2018 World Cup runners-up do not plan to carry out the gesture to promote racial equality.
      The Three Lions have confirmed that they will take a knee ahead of all games in the Euros.
      England carried out the gesture during their two warm-up games against Austria and Romania despite boos from a minority of the crowd
      HE’S BUK
      Arsenal ace Bukayo Saka trained with the rest of the England squad after missing Sunday’s friendly against Romania.
      Saka suffered a hip problem and was rested by Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate ahead of Euro 2020.
      The same though didn’t apply for Manchester United ace Harry Maguire who was absent from practice, as mentioned below.
      Maguire is still recovering from an ankle ligament injury he sustained at Aston Villa last month
      SHAW REDEMPTION
      Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes confidence and manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer are the secret behind Luke Shaw rediscovering his form.
      Ferdinand told the Daily Express: “Confidence. A manager that believes in him.
      “He may have changed a few things in his personal life as well, be it preparation.
      “Whatever he’s done he’s done remarkably well. He’s shown great character, which you need in times of adversity and I think he’s done really well”
      MAGUIRE UPDATE
      Manchester United star Harry Maguire was the only player missing from England’s training earlier today.
      The Three Lions kick-off Group D against Croatia at Wembley on Sunday and Gareth Southgate had all of his players available for practice except for Maguire.
      The United centre-back is set to miss the Euros opener with an ankle ligament injury he suffered at Aston Villa last month.
      The 28-year-old is continuing rehab and there is no official word yet regarding a return to full fitness
      GETTY IMAGES
      IT KANE HAPPEN
      Manchester United hero Rio Ferdinand believes Red Devils stars will be asking Harry Kane for his thoughts about a potential transfer to Old Trafford during England’s Euro 2020 preparations.
      Ferdinand told the Daily Mirror: “Yeah that happens. That happened when I went to the World Cup with Nicky Butt, Becks [David Beckham] in the United team. Talked about me coming to United.
      “That was speculation in the paper. That happens, every tournament, every get together. Players talking to players. I’m sure managers have said ‘speak to him for me and find out what he’s like’.
      “Butt just said to me ‘would you come United?’. And I said ‘yeah I would. I want to win trophies’. That probably filtered back to the manager, they know if they want to make a bid or not. That’s how it works.
      “All players are like fans. If you were in a squad with a player who you think is brilliant and you want him to come to your club you’d be saying ‘come on, mate. Come to us. Get on to your club and your agent and try to manoeuvre a move to get to us”
      SPAIN VS SWEDEN CHAOS
      As mentioned below, Spain and Sweden’s Euro 2020 opener has been cast into doubt after a total of four players returned a positive coronavirus test.
      UEFA have prepared a protocol ahead of this summer’s competition which would allow a fixture to be delayed by up to 48 hours should a team have fewer than 13 available players.
      If a national side is unable to fulfil a fixture within that time then their opponents will be awarded a 3-0 victory.
      However, the exact guidance on what would happen in the extreme circumstance of neither side being able to field a team is unclear.
      SPAIN VS SWEDEN UPDATE
      Spain and Sweden’s Euro 2020 opener against each other has been thrown into chaos after four players returned positive COVID-19 tests.
      Furia Roja stars Sergio Busquets and Diego Llorente were put into isolation after being diagnosed with coronavirus.
      Janne Andersson’s side also suffered a similar set back as Dejan Kulusevski and Mattias Svanberg also tested positive.
      The Sweden duo is also isolating and the Group E fixture – due to be held in Seville on Monday – between the two nations is now in serious jeopardy
      SOUTHGATE OPEN LETTER
      England manager Gareth Southgate has issued a passionate open letter to fans ahead of Euro 2020.
      Southgate wrote a long piece for the Players Tribune where he insisted that all of his players, and those who didn’t make the cut, are immensely honoured and proud to represent their country.
      The 50-year-old added that his players should not “stick to football” and believes they have a “duty” to interact with the public on important matters such as equality, inclusivity and racial injustice.
      This comes after a loud minority booed England players for taking the knee during the last two friendlies against Austria and Romania
      NEVER SAY NEVES
      Wolves ace Ruben Neves has been linked with a £35million move to Arsenal in the summer transfer window.
      Neves’ club are willing to drop his asking price as they seek to refresh their squad following the arrival of new boss Bruno Lage.
      The star midfielder has been touted as a potential replacement for the departing Granit Xhaka, who is likely to join Roma.
      Neves is currently preparing for Euro 2020 with Portugal
      GETTY IMAGES
      ENGLAND SQUAD
      Let’s revisit the squad England boss Gareth Southgate has put together ahead of Euro 2020:
      Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson, Sam Johnstone, Jordan Pickford
      Defenders:, Ben Chilwell, Conor Coady, Reece James, Harry Maguire, Tyrone Mings, Luke Shaw, John Stones, Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker, Ben White
      Midfielders: Jude Bellingham, Jordan Henderson, Mason Mount, Kalvin Phillips, Declan Rice
      Forwards: Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Jadon Sancho, Raheem Sterling
      TWO DAYS TO GO
      We are almost at the 48 hours to go mark before the European Championships start.
      Turkey vs Italy kicks the tournament off at 8pm GMT on Friday night.
      The first England game is then on Sunday at 2pm when they begin their campaign against Croatia at Wembley Stadium.
      Credit: Getty
      STERLING EFFORT
      Raheem Sterling is going into the Euros with a smile on his face despite Manchester City’s Champions League defeat.
      The forward claims he has put the loss in Porto behind him and is excited ahead of Sunday’s opener against Croatia at Wembley.
      The England attacker said: “Honestly, I can’t wait. I actually can’t wait. It’s been a long season but I’m here with England now.
      “It’s been a good season with Man City, we’ve won some trophies. I am disappointed that we didn’t get the Champions League.
      “I’m playing at Wembley, the team’s playing at Wembley.
      “For me, this is what dreams are made of and I’m just going into this with a lovely mindset.”
      Credit: Getty
      PADDY POWER ODDS FOR EURO 2020
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      #WhatOddsPaddy UEFA Euro 2020 – Featured

      Each team to score 1 or more goals in the tournament – EVS
      100 or more goals in the group stages – 2/1
      England, Wales & Scotland combine for 21 or more goals – 3/1
      Romelu Lukaku to be the top tournament goalscorer & Mason Mount to be the UEFA Best Young Player of the Tournament – 40/1
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      Credit: Getty – Contributor
      LAST NIGHT’S RESULTS
      Here are some of the standout results from last night’s international friendlies as teams prepare to head into the Euros.

      France 3-0 Bulgaria
      Spain 4-0 Lithuania
      Poland 2-2 Iceland
      Hungary 0-0 Republic of Ireland
      Czech Republic 3-1 Albania

      DONNY DONE
      Donny van de Beek is out of the Euros due to injury.
      The Manchester United and Netherlands midfielder, 24, did not feature in either warm-up friendly against Scotland or Georgia ahead of the tournament.
      And he trained separate from the rest of the team on Monday.
      Now the KNVB have confirmed Van de Beek is ‘struggling with an injury’ and has been ruled out.
      United team-mate Marcus Rashford sent a message of support for his pal.
      The England forward tweeted: “sorry mate @Donny_beek6 take some time for yourself and keep your head high x”
      Manager Frank de Boer will not call up a replacement to fill his spot in the 26-man squad.

      DIEGO COVID BLOW
      Leeds star Diego Llorente has become the second Spain player to test positive for Covid-19 throwing the Spaniards’ Euro 2020 preparation into chaos.
      La Roja captain Sergio Busquets tested positive on Sunday which saw the whole squad thrust into isolation.
      That saw the Spanish forced to play an Under-21 side for their friendly against Lithuania on Tuesday – the same day Llorente returned a positive test.
      And as a result, six senior stars – Kepa Arrizabalaga, Raul Albiol, Brais Mendez, Pablo Fornals, Rodrigo Moreno and Carlos Soler – have been called up and made to train in a parallel bubble to the original group.
      Following Spain’s 4-0 win over the Lithuanians, the Spanish FA have confirmed a number of Under-21 players will also remain in Madrid to train there.
      And it looks more and more likely players from the reserve groups will have to be used after Llorente, 27, was struck down.

      ROUND THE BENZ
      Karim Benzema has handed France an injury scare ahead of Euro 2020 as he limped out of their friendly with Bulgaria.
      Les Bleus cruised to a 3-0 win in their final match before they kick off the tournament on Tuesday against Germany in Munich.
      The Real Madrid star, 33, was handed a shock international recall following a six-year absence for the showpiece.
      And he looked poised to play a huge role for the reigning world champions before he suffered a blow during the first half of Tuesday night’s game.
      Benzema appeared to be hurt following a challenge with Bulgarian defender Ivan Turitsov during the first half.
      The veteran tried to play on but soon went down and signalled he could not continue as he hobbled off favouring his right knee in the 37th minute at the Stade de France.
      France boss Didier Deschamps said: “It’s a knock.
      “He took a good hit on the muscle above the left knee, and he felt that it was hardening so we took no risk. The medical staff is currently with him.”

      SUMMER OF LOVE
      Gareth Southgate delivered a rousing message to England’s players and fans as his Euros prep cranked up a gear.
      The Three Lions boss united the nation on the march to the World Cup semi-final in 2018 and now he wants the power of sport to lift the country again.
      Southgate, whose team face Croatia in the Euro 2020 opener at Wembley on Sunday, recognised the nightmare 15 months of Covid-19 and wants his players to be part of a summer of love again.
      He said: “There’s something I tell our players before every England game, and the reason that I repeat it is because I really believe it with all my heart.
      “I tell them that when you go out there, in this shirt, you have the opportunity to produce moments that people will remember forever. You are a part of an experience that lasts in the collective consciousness of our country.
      “We saw that during Russia 2018, with the street parties, the barbecues and with every drop of beer thrown into the air in celebration.”

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      That’s right, William Hill are offering new customers 100/1 that England captain Kane will be the Golden Boot winner at the European Championships.
      The Tottenham talisman enjoyed another stellar campaign – scoring 33 goals in 49 appearances with a further 17 assists to boot.
      He also became only the third player to win the Premier League’s Golden Boot on three separate occasions, after Thierry Henry and Alan Shearer.
      The 27-year-old is in fine fettle and leading the line for an England side expected to go deep into the tournament.
      Kane finished top scorer during the qualifying process with 12 goals and knows what it takes at this level having won the Golden Boot at the 2018 World Cup.
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      Rio Ferdinand rules out Cristiano Ronaldo Man Utd return but says Euros perfect chance for centre-back targets to shine

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      RIO FERDINAND confidently predicted Cristiano Ronaldo will NOT return to Manchester United this summer.But he believes the Euros provides the perfect chance to spot their new centre-back.
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      Cristiano Ronaldo has been tipped to return to Manchester United – but former team-mate Rio Ferdinand is unconvincedCredit: Rex
      Ronaldo, 36, has been linked with a stunning comeback to Old Trafford amid unrest and financial chaos at Juventus.
      The Portugal hero scored 118 goals in 292 appearances for United between 2003 and 2009, leaving for Real Madrid for a world-record £80million as the Ballon d’Or holder.
      But his former team-mate under Sir Alex Ferguson insists that ship has already sailed.
      Ferdinand, 42, told SunSport: “I don’t think Ronaldo will happen.
      “That chapter has been written and it’s closed so I don’t think there’s any chance of that happening.”
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is desperate to bring in another defender during the off-season as a long-term partner to Harry Maguire.
      Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly endured their struggles last term.
      But Ferdinand, not drawn on a specific target, reckons an impressive international tournament could prove crucial – just as it did for him.
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      Man Utd’s biggest transfers ever, both in and out, including Ronaldo

      He completed his record-breaking transfer to United in 2002 after rounding off an impressive season with Leeds United by starring for England at the World Cup.
      Ferdinand, manager of BT’s Hope United tackling online hate, added: “What’s good about the Euros is there will be a good few centre-backs on show there.
      “It’s also about who is available.
      “I went to the World Cup and got bought off the back of a good season but also playing at a major tournament.
      “This is a great opportunity for someone else to put themselves in the shop window and be purchased by a big club.
      “Manchester United are in the market for a centre-back so what an opportunity for someone.”
      Solskjaer will no doubt be keeping a close eye on French pair Raphael Varane and Jules Kounde as well as late England call-up Ben White who have all been linked with summer transfers to United.

      BT’s Hope United Pledge will allow you to show your support for the fight against online hate this summer. Visit bt.com/hopeunited to find out more and share the Hope United Pledge on social media. Together we can beat online hate.

      Ben White could give his market value a major boost with strong performances for England this summerCredit: Rex
      Ferdinand was at United throughout Ronaldo’s six years at Old TraffordCredit: Reuters
      The former England defender earned a record transfer after the 2002 World CupCredit: Rex
      [embedded content]
      Cristiano Ronaldo ‘contacts Man Utd, PSG and Real Madrid to find out transfer plans’ as he considers shock Juventus exit More

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      Rio Ferdinand urges England boss Southgate to play 3-4-3 vs Croatia with Kane, Grealish and Sterling up front together

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      RIO FERDINAND believes Jack Grealish and Raheem Sterling should partner Harry Kane in attack against Croatia.England begin their Euro 2020 campaign on Sunday against the team that knocked them out of the World Cup three years ago.
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      Rio Ferdinand reckons Jack Grealish should be in England’s starting XI against Croatia on SundayCredit: Getty
      Harry Kane will lead the line as captain with Raheem Sterling in contention on the wingCredit: Getty
      But the former Three Lions defender knows how he would set up the side if he was in Gareth Southgate’s boots.
      Ferdinand, 42, told SunSport: “I’d go three at the back, four across the middle and three up front.
      “Kane through the middle, Grealish and Sterling for this game.
      “I’m excited to see how Gareth sets them up: do we play on the front foot, control the game?
      “Last time Croatia controlled it with Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic in midfield. Are we going to allow that again?
      “If we go out there and play to our attacking potential, we have the players to hurt most teams.
      “I’m quietly confident. I’m excited to see our attackers perform.”
      Ferdinand was wary not to set specific predictions regarding how deep England will go in the tournament.
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      He said: “I’m more interested in getting out of the group than saying how far we’ll get because we could potentially play a team from the Group of Death – France, Germany or Portugal – next.
      “I wouldn’t like to hedge my bets until I’ve seen where we are at once we get out of the group.”
      But the 81-cap centre-back, manager of BT’s Hope United tackling online hate, is excited by the young, talented squad at Southgate’s disposal.
      Southgate has plenty of options to support captain Kane as his central striker with Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Phil Foden and Mason Mount all pushing for a starting spot.
      He added: “I want to see a young player come out of nowhere like Michael Owen did in 1998.
      “The likes of Grealish, Foden, Mount, Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham – I can’t wait to see them put on the England shirt in a tournament.
      “Phil has bleached his hair like Gazza, he’s ready, he’s fresh – I’m looking forward to it. They are a good bunch of guys. I’m excited!”

      BT’s Hope United Pledge will allow you to show your support for the fight against online hate this summer. Visit bt.com/hopeunited to find out more and share the Hope United Pledge on social media. Together we can beat online hate.

      Ferdinand is excited by the young talent in the Three Lions’ squadCredit: Getty

      [embedded content]
      The England team arrive at basecamp for EURO 2020 More

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      Portugal vs Israel LIVE: Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes double and Cancelo on target in final Euro 2020 warm up

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      PORTUGAL battered Israel 4-0 in their final Euro 2020 warm up before defending their title from next week.Cristiano Ronaldo, Man City’s Joao Cancelo and a Bruno Fernandes double completed Portugal’s preparations before opening up against Hungary next Tuesday.

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      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      THAT’S ALL FOR TONIGHT
      Portugal steamroll their way to victory in their final warm-up game ahead of Euro 2020, brushing Israel aside 4-0.
      They face Hungary next in the first round of clashes in Group F on Tuesday, with kick-off at 5pm.
      The Hungarians have the home advantage, so Portugal will have to dig deep.
      But if their performance tonight is anything to go by, they could be a real force to be reckoned with at this tournament.
      Goodbye for now.
      KICK-OFF APPROACHING…
      The teams are out for the anthems.
      Portugal are in their iconic red shirt and green shorts while Israel sport a white shirt with light blue shorts.
      Moments to go until kick-off and both sides look really up for this friendly contest.
      Credit: EPA
      PORTUGAL 4-0 ISRAEL
      FULL TIME.
      After Hungary’s 0-0 draw with Ireland yesterday and a narrow 1-0 victory over Cyprus last week, the momentum going into Tuesday’s clash will be with Portugal.
      After such an impressive display, confidence will be high and Portugal will believe that they can get their campaign off to a winning start against the Group F underdogs.
      Having said that, Israel managed to create a couple of chances tonight and frustrated Portugal’s attack for the best part of 40 minutes before the breakthrough.
      If Hungary can remain defensively solid, can they use their home advantage to catch Portugal out? Predict what YOU think the score will be below…

      PORTUGAL 4-0 ISRAEL
      The question on everyone’s lips after that game will be – will Portugal go all the way again at Euro 2020?
      HAVE YOUR SAY

      PORTUGAL 4-0 ISRAEL
      FULL TIME.
      A dominant display from the reigning European Champions who’ve shown the rest of Europe that they won’t be giving up their crown lightly.
      Two goals, an assist and a Man of the Match performance from Bruno Fernandes feels like par for the course after the season he’s had at Manchester United.
      Credit: Reuters
      Cristiano Ronaldo got in on the action with a goal at the end of the first half and a delicious curling effort from Joao Cancelo sealed the win for Fernando Santos’ men.
      The Portugal manager will be delighted with the performance from his team tonight.
      He’ll be particularly happy not to have any fresh injury concerns to worry about before the game against Hungary on Tuesday.
      Despite their best efforts and some promising play at times, Israel were ultimately outclassed by a fearsome looking Portugal side.
      Ruttensteiner’s men can nevertheless hold their heads high as they put in a stoic defensive first-half display before they were dismantled by a predatory Portugal.
      Credit: EPA
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
      THAT’S THE FULL TIME WHISTLE.
      PORTUGAL 4-0 ISRAEL
      Credit: Reuters

      GOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!
      ANOTHER FOR BRUNO FERNANDES AND OH IT’S AN ABSOLUTE STUNNER.
      WHAT. A. GOAL.
      PORTUGAL 4-0 ISRAEL

      PORTUGAL 3-0 ISRAEL
      SUBSTITUTIONS
      87. Israel make another round of subs but with only a few minutes to go and likely not much injury time, it’s likely far too late for them to make any kind of impact.
      Israel can hold their heads high though.
      They’ve put in a valiant display against a lethal looking Portugal who against a lesser side, may have got 7 or 8 goals.
      It’s Eli Dasa and Neta Lavi off, with Aviel Zargari and Yonas Malede replacing them.
      PORTUGAL 3-0 ISRAEL
      86. Joao Cancelo showed his class there by bending the ball right into the bottom corner with his left foot.
      A really impressive finish to cap off what’s been an excellent display from the Man City right-back.

      GOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLL!!!
      PORTUGAL 3-0 ISRAEL
      85. JOAO CANCELO CURLS AN ABSOLUTE BEAUTY INTO THE BOTTOM CORNER FROM JUST INSIDE THE BOX.
      A BEAUUUUTTTTTY.
      Credit: EPA
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      82. Guedes is trying very hard to impress his manager from the right-wing but it’s not really happening for him and he’s given the ball a way a few times.
      The sting has been taken out of the game slightly and the substitutes are noticeably less deadly in attack for Portugal than the withdrawn Ronaldo, Jota and Silva.
      Israel may look to use this as an opportunity to nab a goal against the run of play…
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      79. CHANCE! Zahavi comes close again and meets a cross from the right hand side at the near post, nicking the ball ever so slightly wide.
      Israel get a corner, though it didn’t look to come off Silva…
      Unfortunately for Israel, the corner comes to nothing and Portugal look to build from the back.
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      75. Portugal have had 19 attempts on goal, with 8 on target. Marciano has had a solid night in goal for Israel. Without him, it could be a cricket scoreline.
      Israel have had a mere 3 shots and have had none on target, but will be encouraged by some decent patterns of play against a world-class side playing with real confidence.
      Credit: AFP
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      SUBSTITUTION
      70. Cristiano Ronaldo is withdrawn for Sporting Lisbon’s young midfield maestro Pedro Goncalves.
      Portugal fans will be pleased to see him coming off unscathed and will hope he can impose himself on yet another major tournament this summer.
      Euro 2020 will be his ninth. NINTH.
      Goncalo Guedes and Renato Sanches also come on for Bernardo Silva and William Carvalho.
      Credit: AP

      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      67. Joao Moutinho earns his 131st cap for Portugal.
      Alongside Pepe’s 114 caps and Cristiano Ronaldo’s 174 caps, it would be fair to say there’s a lot of experience in this Portugal side.
      Eran Zahavi has the most caps of any Israel player on the field, with 63 caps, following the withdrawal of their experienced captain Bibras Natkho, who has 77.
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      SUBSTITUTIONS
      63. Israel bring on Osama Khalaila and Mohammed Abu Fani for Gadi Kinda and the captain Bibras Natcho.
      Ruttensteiner will be hoping they can at least pull one back before the final whistle to have something to show for all of their hard work.
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      SUBSTITUTIONS
      62. Portugal are bringing on Joao Moutinho and Danilo Pereira for Ruben Neves and Ruben Dias.
      Despite being a more natural holding midfielder, it would appear that Pereira will slot in at centre-back alongside Pepe.
      Joao Moutinho on for his club-mate Neves is a more straightforward direct swap.
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      60. CHANCE! Bernardo Silva is clean through and tries to chip the keeper from six yards out.
      Marciano again makes a good save and Bruno Fernandes then misses the rebound.
      Credit: Reuters
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      56. CHANCE! By far the most encouraging pattern of play from Israel so far as Zahavi has a shot after taking a touch, when he probably should have hit it first time.
      Had that been 2-1, things might have got interesting, but after that warning shot you would imagine that Portugal will now be a bit more mindful of the Israel press.
      Better from Israel, who will hope to build on that pattern of play.
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      54. Carvalho blasts it well over the bar from 25 yards out. A poor effort.
      Israel are playing out from the back which feels like they’re playing straight into Portugal’s hands.
      Portugal are pressing very high up the pitch and it’s a bit nervy at times. One misplaced pass and it’s 3-0…
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      50. BOOKING & OFFSIDE! Some confusion as Cancelo puts a great ball into the box from a free kick.
      Bruno Fernandes meets it at the back post and puts in the back of the net but it doesn’t count.
      Cristiano Ronaldo was a good five yards offside.
      Orel Dgani was booked for Israel for giving away the foul.
      Credit: AFP
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      48. Portugal goalkeeper Rui Silva of Granada makes his international debut tonight and so far hasn’t put a foot wrong.
      Having said that, he really hasn’t had much to do…
      It will likely be Lyon shot-stopper Antony Lopes or Wolves’ experienced keeper Rui Patricio that starts against Hungary.
      But tonight is still an excellent opportunity for Silva to show what he can do and showcase the depth in options Portugal have between the sticks.
      Credit: EPA

      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!!!!!!
      THE SECOND HALF IS UNDERWAY!
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      SUBSTITUTIONS
      The second half is about to begin and it looks like Joel Abu Hanna is coming on for Israel with Sun Menachem making way.
      Portugal’s number 9 Andre Silva of Eintracht Frankfurt is on for Diogo Jota, suggesting that Ronaldo will head out wide and he’ll become the focal point of the Portuguese attack.
      PORTUGAL 2-0 ISRAEL
      HALF TIME.
      Israel will feel like they’ve just been slapped round the face after two quickfire goals from Portugal.
      They defended valiantly for 40 minutes but Portugal were very dominant throughout and it was only really a matter of time before they broke the deadlock.
      They did so in emphatic fashion after a goal and an assist from Bruno Fernandes and an almost routine international goal for the ever-ruthless Cristiano Ronaldo.
      Is this game over now or could there still be an unwanted plot twist for Fernando Santos’ men?

      Load more entries… More

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      What are the lyrics to Poland’s national anthem Mazurek Dabrowskiego?

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      FOR MANY Poland face an uphill battle to survive the group stages at Euro 2020 – but if their national anthem is anything to go by they will not go down without a fight.The opening lines to Mazurek Dabrowskiego declares: “Poland has not yet perished – so long as we still live.”

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      And with captain Robert Lewandowski in the side his goals could fire them into an unlikely trip through the knockout stages – where anything is possible.
      What are the lyrics to “Mazurek Dabrowskiego?”
      Verse 1Jeszcze Polska nie zginęła,Kiedy my żyjemy.Co nam obca przemoc wzięła,Szablą odbierzemy.
      ChorusMarsz, marsz, Dąbrowski,Z ziemi włoskiej do Polski.Za twoim przewodemZłączym się z narodem.
      Poland stars line up for their anthem
      Verse 2Przejdziem Wisłę, przejdziem Wartę,Będziem Polakami.Dał nam przykład Bonaparte,Jak zwyciężać mamy.
      ChorusMarsz, marsz, Dąbrowski,Z ziemi włoskiej do Polski.Za twoim przewodemZłączym się z narodem. 
      Verse 3Jak Czarniecki do PoznaniaPo szwedzkim zaborze,Dla ojczyzny ratowaniaWrócim się przez morze.
      How the top pundits of the two channels stack up against each other
      ChorusMarsz, marsz, Dąbrowski,Z ziemi włoskiej do Polski.Za twoim przewodemZłączym się z narodem.
      Verse 4Już tam ojciec do swej BasiMówi zapłakany –Słuchaj jeno, pono nasiBiją w tarabany.
      ChorusMarsz, marsz, Dąbrowski,Z ziemi włoskiej do Polski.Za twoim przewodemZłączym się z narodem
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      What are the lyrics in English?
      Verse 1Poland has not yet perished,So long as we still live.What the foreign force has taken from us,We shall with sabre retrieve.
      ChorusMarch, march, Dąbrowski,From Italy to Poland.Under your commandWe shall rejoin the nation.
      Verse 2We’ll cross the Vistula, we’ll cross the Warta,We shall be Polish.Bonaparte has given us the exampleOf how we should prevail.
      ChorusMarch, march, Dąbrowski,From Italy to Poland.Under your commandWe shall rejoin the nation.
      Verse 3Like Czarniecki to PoznańAfter the Swedish annexation,To save our homeland,We shall return across the sea.
      ChorusMarch, march, Dąbrowski,From Italy to Poland.Under your commandWe shall rejoin the nation.
      Verse 4A father, in tears,Says to his BasiaListen, our boys are saidTo be beating the tarabans.
      ChorusMarch, march, Dąbrowski,From Italy to Poland.Under your commandWe shall rejoin the nation. More

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      Declan Rice vows to have his first pint EVER if England win Euro 2020… but he’ll probably spit it out

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      DECLAN RICE plans to drink his first ever pint — if England win Euro 2020.The West Ham midfielder made the vow ahead of Sunday’s Group D opener with Croatia at Wembley.
      Declan Rice is bracing himself for his first ever pint… if England win the EurosCredit: Getty
      Rice said: “Do you know what? Until this day, I have never had a beer and I am 22! That’s the truth.
      “Never had a pint. Don’t drink it. People get surprised but I just don’t like the smell of it, so I have never gone near it.”
      Confirming he will have a beer if England are victorious at Wembley in the final on July 11, he said: “Yes. I will give it a try — but I will probably spit it out.
      “I like a spirit now and then but as footballers we never get to live that life. If you want to then you may as well do something else.
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      “Recovery is so important, if you go out after a game and have a drink it is not going to help the next day.
      “I can save that for the end of my career.
      “When you are younger you miss loads of parties.
      “When I moved from home to West Ham, that was a sacrifice at 14.
      “Going out on weekends, seeing my friends, the drinking side of it.
      “My mates were out partying, sending videos while I was stuck in hotels — but it has all been worth it.”
      Rice was on holiday in Dubai when England made the 2018 World Cup semis.

      He said: “There was a massive football fan zone and it was crazy.
      “I remember watching the Panama game, Tunisia, Sweden — the singing, the national anthem, just being a part of it.
      “I was a fan for that one, so to be part of this one is unbelievable.”
      England boss Gareth Southgate is trying out various formations with injured Harry Maguire set to miss the Croatia clash.
      One includes Luke Shaw on the left of a three-man defence with Ben Chilwell at left wing-back.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      The England team arrive at basecamp for EURO 2020 More

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      Watch Cristiano Ronaldo net 104th Portugal goal as Bruno Fernandes gets double in Euro 2020 warm-up win over Israel

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO hit his 104th international goal in Portugal’s cruise past Israel before heading to Euro 2020.The football world record for goals in men’s internationals may even be broken by the 36-year-old at the tournament.

      With the Selecao a goal to the good, Ronaldo picked up the ball on the left side of Israel’s penalty area and drove towards goal.
      And his rocket of a shot was right at goalkeeper Ofir Marciano but squeezed in nonetheless to make it 2-0 after 44 minutes.
      Israel became the 42nd nation to concede to the Juventus star, who has hit 43 goals in his last 42 caps for Portugal.
      It means he is just six strikes away from beating Iran legend Ali Daei and his record tally of 109 international goals.
      Portugal’s opener on Wednesday was made in Manchester as Joao Cancelo slid a slick cross into Bruno Fernandes, who provided a bullet finish into the bottom corner.
      Ronaldo made it two moments later before a fierce third from Cancelo, the man City right-back cutting inside and unleashing a wicked effort past the keeper.
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      Portugal turned on the style in stoppage time as Manchester United star Fernandes notched his second with a belter into the top corner from 20 yards out.
      Having drawn with Spain in their other pre-Euros friendly, the defending champions go into the tournament on fine form and allowed Israel only one shot on target in Lisbon.
      France and Germany await in Group F after next week’s opener against Hungary, who Portugal faced in 2016’s run to glory.
      And Manchester United star Fernandes has challenged his side to make the most of the tough draw.
      He said post-match: “At the last Euros it looked like an easy group and it was difficult to get through.
      “All the teams are difficult, at a Euros they will all be good. There is always a group that makes a difference, we have to find it in us.”
      ⚽Get ALL of the latest Portugal news and updates from Euro 2020

      Portugal boss Fernando Santos insisted there is still much to work on for his side with the tactical setup around Ronaldo an issue.
      He stated: “In the second-half I changed things a little, I tried to put one more man next to Ronaldo and two midfielders coming in from the inside, but it didn’t work.
      “We started to miss a lot of passes and the ball circulation was not so good. There are many things to improve.”
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
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      Cristiano Ronaldo is still main man… but Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Dias & Bernardo make Portugal big Euro 2020 contenders

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      PORTUGAL is full of massive individual talents — but my hope is that the team’s ability is even greater than the sum of its parts.Cristiano Ronaldo will once again be the big star, even at 36, with his enormous quality meaning the side revolves around him.
      Portugal have a wealth of talent to help defend their Euros crownCredit: AP
      His team-mates have to accept it is worth foregoing some teamwork from Ronaldo, because they know he is capable of making the difference at any moment.
      That has been the case in the past — such as that amazing hat-trick in the 3-3 draw against Spain at the 2018 World Cup — and will be once again at this tournament.
      Ronaldo will offer little on the defensive side but contribute everything in the final third, so he is a luxury worth having.
      But beyond the Juventus striker and the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Dias and Bernardo Silva, there are some emerging stars in Portuguese football too.
      The latest example is Pote, a young midfielder who played in behind the striker for title-winning Sporting Lisbon and finished top-scorer in the Primeira Liga with 23.
      Pote, 22, is a rebellious and bold player who is not afraid of any opponent or atmosphere.
      I know three members of the squad really well because they played for me in the past. I had Rui Patricio and Joao Moutinho at Sporting and Renato Sanches at Swansea.
      Patricio holds the all-time record for international caps won by a  Portuguese goalkeeper so is very experienced and assured.
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      He rarely makes big mistakes and there’s no question that he’s a big asset to the national team.
      His performances at Wolves have confirmed just how reliable the best goalkeeper of the decade really is.
      Moutinho is a machine! I was once asked to give my thoughts on him and I remember saying, “He plays with an antenna on his head”.
      He understands the game, he plays and gets others playing, he covers for players who are out of position and is a tireless worker for the team.
      Moutinho, 34, is second in the all-time appearances list for the national team with 130 caps, ahead of Luis Figo and behind Ronaldo on 174.
      Having played at three Euros and two World Cups, this is likely his last major tournament.
      Sanches, 23, is an explosive box-to-box midfielder who regained his best form in France with surprise Ligue 1 champions Lille.
      As someone who plays with great intensity at both ends of the pitch, the French league has been the ideal platform for him to prove his ability.
      Portugal are out to defend their Euro 2016 crownCredit: AFP – Getty
      Manchester City’s Ruben Dias is one of several stars to have emerged sinceCredit: PA
      When there are a lot of transitions in the game is when we will see the best of Renato.
      Portugal are in Group F with Hungary, Germany and France. It’s going to be difficult and very tight.
      In theory, Hungary will be the team left behind and the other three will battle for the top two spots.
      Portugal have historically struggled against what, on paper, are weaker teams and excel against stronger opponents. This is why the first game, against Hungary on Tuesday, is so important and the team simply cannot afford to drop any points.
      I think that in this match the coach Fernando Santos will take risks to win the game — and go with three attacking players up top who have an eye for goal.
      He will set up with a four-man defence and three midfielders, two of them more attacking players.
      He will also go with two attacking wing-backs that have the flanks to themselves, with the wingers playing more on the inside.
      In the other two games, against France and Germany, I expect to see Portugal try to control the game in the middle with two holding midfielders, a more attack-minded option (like Fernandes) and a winger who is a good all-round midfielder, such as Bernardo Silva.
      This will allow Santos’ men to dominate play in the middle third and create good attacking play to provide Ronaldo the best supply, while not giving the opposition the time to launch counter-attacks.
      We attack together and we are a unit when we lose the ball.
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      Portugal are the defending Euro champions. The team has really talented players, a very able and experienced coach as well as huge desire and belief to successfully defend their crown.
      Everything in the group stage will come down to beating France and Germany, and not slipping up against Hungary.
      We hope to see Portugal play technical and creative football but with good discipline at the same time.
      That is what they showed five years ago and it took them all the way.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      Jose Mourinho chats to James Corden about managing Man United and Spurs, where is best for Harry Kane, how he doesn’t understand Cricket and why England can win the European Championships More