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      in Soccer

      Burnley vs Arsenal: Mikel Arteta’s Gunners eye five straight wins as they travel to Premier League strugglers

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      ARSENAL travel to Premier League strugglers Burnley on Saturday afternoon.The Gunners have been in fantastic form of late, scoring 16 goals in their last four games.
      Arsenal beat West Ham 6-0 last time outCredit: GETTY
      Burnley lost 3-1 at Liverpool last weekendCredit: GETTY
      Last time out, Arsenal thrashed London rivals West Ham 6-0 on their own patch as Mikel Arteta’s side put themselves firmly in the title race.
      The Gunners are aiming to go one better than last campaign and claim their first Premier League title since the 2003/04 season.
      Meanwhile, Vincent Kompany’s Burnley haven’t lived up to expectations on their return to the top flight and are in a dogfight to stay in the league.
      The Clarets are seven points from safety and are without a win since before Christmas.
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      When is Burnley vs Arsenal?

      Burnley vs Arsenal will take place on Saturday, February 17.
      Kick off will be at 3pm GMT.
      Turf Moor will host.

      What TV channel is Burnley vs Arsenal on and can it be live streamed?

      Burnley vs Arsenal will not be broadcast on live TV in the UK.
      This is due to the 3pm blackout rule.
      You can keep up to date with all the action from Turf Moor by following SunSport’s live blog.

      Team news
      For Burnley, centre-back Jordan Beyer could return after missing the last four games with a thigh injury.
      Long-term absentees Nathan Redmond and Luca Koleosho will remain unavailable.
      Most read in Football
      Mikel Arteta will be hoping Jorginho has fully recovered from a foot injury after he was left on the bench for the 6-0 win at West Ham.
      Takehiro Tomiyasu returned from the Asian Cup with a slight problem but is expected to be available for the trip to Burnley.
      Oleksandr Zinchenko, Gabriel Jesus and Emile Smith Rowe are all doubts for Saturday’s match.
      What are the odds?
      Match result

      Burnley – 8/1
      Draw – 9/2
      Arsenal – 2/7

      *Odds courtesy of Paddy Power and are correct at the time of publication. More

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      in Soccer

      Luton vs Man Utd: Ten Hag’s side look to continue good Premier League form against relegation-threatened Hatters

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      MANCHESTER UNITED travel to London to face Luton Town on Sunday afternoon.United will be looking to continue their momentum following their dramatic 2-1 away win over Aston Villa.
      Rasmus Hojlund and Scott McTominay were on the scoresheet against Aston VillaCredit: GETTY
      Luton were beaten 3-1 by Sheffield United last time outCredit: GETTY
      Erik Ten Hag’s side has been on a good run of results in the Premier League recently, having won three in the last four games.
      Luton Town come into the game one point above the relegation zone after they lost 3-1 at home to Sheffield United last time out.
      Despite their home defeat, the Hatters have been known to give the top six sides tough games on their own patch, running close games against the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea.
      When is Luton vs Man Utd?

      Luton Town vs Manchester United will take place on Sunday, 18th February.
      Kick off will be at 4.30pm GMT.
      Kenilworth Road will host the fixture.

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      What TV channel is Luton vs Man Utd on and can it be live streamed?

      Luton Town vs Manchester United will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event/ Premier League.
      Sky Sports customers can live stream the match via the NOW app.
      Alternatively, you can follow SunSport’s live blog to keep up to date with all the action from Kenilworth Road.

      Team news
      Luke Shaw is an injury concern for United after coming off at half-time at Villa Park last Sunday.
      The likes of Lisandro Martinez, Mason Mount, Anthony Martial, Tyrell Malacia, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are long-term absentees.
      For Luton, Mads Andersen and Marvelous Nakamba are unavailable for this fixture.
      Most read in Football
      New January signing Daiki Hashioka could feature for the first time for the Hatters this weekend.
      What are the odds?
      Match result

      Luton – 3/1
      Draw – 14/5
      Man Utd – 3/4

      *Odds courtesy of Paddy Power and are correct at the time of publication. More

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      in Soccer

      Crystal Palace vs Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Connor Gallagher scores TWICE against ex-club as Blues come from behind to win

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      CONOR GALLAGHER scored twice against his former club as Chelsea came from behind to beat Crystal Palace 3-1.Chelsea skipper Gallagher had not scored in the Premier League this season but made it three from two after his strike in the FA Cup against Aston Villa last week.
      Jefferson Lerma unleashed a thunderbolt to put Crystal Palace ahead in the first-half – it was also his first goal for the club.
      After an awful first 45 the Blues hit back immediately after the break, Gallagher volleying home a Malo Gusto cross.
      Gallagher then scored the vital goal bang on 90 minutes before Enzo Fernandez sealed the deal with a breakaway goal.

      Match result: Crystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea
      Crystal Palace XI: Henderson, Munoz, Andersen, Richards, Mitchell, Lerma, Wharton, Ayew, Hughes, Franca, Mateta.
      Chelsea XI: Petrovic, Gusto, Disasi, Chilwell, Caicedo, Enzo, Gallagher, Madueke, Jackson, Palmer.

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      Relive the action with our blog…
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      Victory papers over cracks for Blues
      Chelsea still have a lot to work on to get to where they want to be.
      Victories against sides in the bottom half of the table are much needed but the true test of the capabilities of this team will be when facing tougher opposition.
      With games against Man City, Tottenham and Liverpool coming up Pochettino will want to see a lot more from his side.
      Copy linkCopiedBig win for Pochettino’s men
      Mauricio Pochettino will breath a sigh of relief with that result.
      The three points moves them up to tenth in the table, two points behind Newcastle in seventh spot.
      Chelsea have a tough run of fixtures coming up over the next five games.

      Copy linkCopiedConor comes back to haunt Palace
      Conor Gallagher put in a man of the match performance with his second half brace for Chelsea.
      The player who spent a season out on loan at Crystal Palace, had the last laugh at Selhurst Park.
      You could see how much scoring meant to him as he celebrated wildly, despite his previous connections to The Eagles.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Crystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea
      A brace from Conor Gallagher takes The Blues to victory.
      Enzo Fernandez added the icing to the cake deep into added time.
      Pochettino will be pleased with his side’s second half display.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Crystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea
      The referee brings the game to an end with an away win.
      Fortunately for Hodgson there are no boos from the home fans as they seem to have already gone home.
      Cruel defeat for The Eagles, conceding so late on.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea
      90+6. Chelsea continue to come forward looking for more.
      The ball is played to Nkunku in the box who swivels and looks to get a shot away.
      His effort deflects away for a corner with the home ends looking empty at Selhurst Park now.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea
      90+4. As Palace send players forward trying to get an equaliser, they get caught out on the counter attack once again.
      Palmer runs into acres of space before threading a ball into the path of Fernandez.
      He lifts the ball into the net, beating Henderson at his near post.
      Credit: Reuters
      Copy linkCopiedGoal – Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea)
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-2 Chelsea
      90+2. Sterling sets Palmer away down the right wing.
      He cuts inside and holds the ball up, waiting for some support and spots Gallagher just inside the box.
      Gallagher hits the ball first time and into the bottom corner of the goal.
      Copy linkCopiedGoal – Conor Gallagher (Chelsea)
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      90. It is amazing how many free kicks are given for a player kicking the boot of an opponent.
      Both sides are looking to find a late winner here.
      Palace come forward but a loose pass gifts the ball back to the visitors to get on the counter attack.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      88. Chelsea look more disjointed in defence since the changes.
      When Crystal Palace come forward, they look like they can get something out of The Blues.
      We are almost at last chance saloon time now.
      Credit: AFP
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      86. Eduoard strides forward and lays it into the path of Mateta.
      Colwill is look to get to the ball before him but as the Palace striker looks to get to it first, he stands on the foot of the defender.
      The referee awards The Blues a freekick.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      84. What a chance for Chelsea to win the game.
      Palmer plays a sublime ball through The Eagles’ defence to Sterling.
      He takes a touch before getting a shot away but takes too long on the ball and allows the Palace defence to close him down.
      Eduoard comes on for Franca for the hosts.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      82. You would have to say that a goal for either side now wins this game.
      It does not feel there would be enough time for a reply should Crystal Palace or Chelsea concede now.
      Pochettino’s side look the more likely to get that winning goal.
      Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Jack Rosser at Selhurst Park
      Chelsea have such an array of attacking talent on the pitch, now joined by Sterling, but are still struggling open up big gaps to cause Palace real problems.
      Those in front of the Eagles defence are working double time to keep it tight, with Wharton – on his full debut – particularly impressive.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      80. Ahamada comes on for Hughes.
      Chelsea bring Sterling on for Jackson.
      Both managers looking to freshen things up in the final stages of this game.
      Credit: Reuters
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      78. As we enter the final fifteen minutes of the game, it is difficult to call a winner in this game.
      Chelsea are still seeing more possession but The Eagles look dangerous on the break.
      Palmer picks the ball up and runs into the box, checking onto his left foot and getting a shot away.
      It is straight at Henderson and a routine save for the keeper.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      76. Chance for Crystal Palace.
      Franca picks the ball up in the middle and strides towards goal.
      As he gets near the edge of the box he fires off a shot but Petrovic is able to parry the ball back out.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      74. When Palace do venture forward, they seem to lack options in the box.
      All too often crosses are easily cleared by the Chelsea defence.
      Eduoard seems to be warming up on the touchline, maybe Roy Hodgson is thinking the same thing.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      72. Gusto is getting forward more in this half and linking up well with Palmer on the right flank.
      His cross towards Nkunku sees Andersen tower over him and win the header.
      Chelsea appeal for a penalty but the referee is not interested at all.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      70. Gallagher whips a ball into the box which finds Jackson.
      His glancing header is not troubling the keeper or the goal.
      Has to go down as a chance for the Chelsea forward.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      68. The one thing is with this Chelsea team, when the ball is played into them, they always seem to take a touch before looking to get the ball forward.
      One touch football can open teams up, not something that Pochettino’s side seem to employ.
      The game is finely poised now, a draw does neither team any favours.
      Credit: Reuters
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      66. One thing is for sure, since the goal it would appear that somebody has put ten pence in the Chelsea fans.
      On the other hand, the home fans have gone a bit quiet.
      That is, apart from the constant drum being played.
      I wonder who the first person was to decide that taking a drum or trumpet to a game was the way forward.
      Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
      64. Palmer seems to be playing in a wider position now with Nkunku on the pitch.
      He looks far more effective on the right wing and is seeing a lot more of the ball.
      Palace counter and Lerma finds Ayew, looking to slot it in for Munoz.
      The full back looks to cut it back from the byline but Petrovic collects.
      Copy linkCopied More

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      in Boxing

      Meet Ryan Bourland – Jake Paul’s next opponent

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      JAKE Paul is set to return to the boxing ring to face former Golden Gloves champion Ryan Bourland.But who is the Youtuber-turned-boxer’s next opponent? From Bourland’s boxing record to the details of the upcoming event – here’s everything you need to know.
      Jake Paul will go up against Ryan BourlandCredit: DAZN
      Who is Ryan Bourland?
      Ryan Bourland is a former national amateur champion – and the man to welcome Jake Paul back to the ring for his tenth professional bout.
      On Saturday, March 2 I will shock the world and put an end to Jake Paul’s boxing careerRyan Bourland
      Bourland, who is an ex-Golden Gloves champion and junior Olympics boxer, hung up his gloves and swapped the sport for work on the oil rigs in 2018.
      Discussing his boxing career, Bourland said: ”Boxing is not easy.
      ”Taking punches isn’t the most fun thing to do, and I’ve been doing it for a long time, but I’m not making that much money.
      Read More on Jake Paul
      ”I haven’t had health insurance for a while.”
      On working on the oil rigs, Bourland said: “It’s dangerous and hard work, but boxing is dangerous and is really hard work.
      “After they saw my resume, I got a couple of calls, and they told me ‘You are exactly what we are looking for.’
      “My dad told me, ‘You’re crazy. You know how cold it is up there?’
      Most read in Boxing
      “So I went out and bought a bunch of thermals and stuff like that, so hopefully I will be prepared.
      “I got a call about fighting for a belt in Las Vegas, but it’s only for about $10,000.
      “By the time I pay my team and train for two months, it’s not that much.”
      What is Ryan Bourland’s boxing record?
      Jake Paul’s cruiserweight opponent Ryan Bourland boasts a 17-2 record – with six wins coming by way of knockout.
      Prior to his upcoming bout against Paul, Bourland faced Santario Martin in September 2022 – and won by knockout.
      Next up is a guy who has twice as many professional fights under his belt than I do. Ryan “The Rhino” BourlandJake Paul
      Meanwhile, Youtuber-turned-boxer Paul holds an 8-1 record with five knockouts.
      Paul’s last bout saw him leave victorious, after knocking out cruiserweight boxer Andre August in the first round back in December 2023.
      August was the first seasoned boxer that the social media sensation beat following a vicious right uppercut.
      Bourland will be Paul’s third meeting with a pro boxer – and his second in a row.
      When will Ryan Bourland go up against Jake Paul?
      YouTube sensation Jake Paul is set to return to the ring on March 2, 2024  – on the undercard of Amanda Serrano’s featherweight clash with Nina Meinke.
      The upcoming event will be held at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and will be shown live on DAZN.
      In his fight announcement, Paul said: “The goal is simple, build the skillset to become world champion.
      “Next up is a guy who has twice as many professional fights under his belt than I do. Ryan “The Rhino” Bourland.
      “And just like the animal in his bone-chilling nickname… he is also endangered.”
      Meanwhile, Bourland said: “Jake Paul steps into the ring with his social media clout, but let’s not mistake followers for experience or skill.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      “While he’s been busy chasing likes, I’ve been honing my craft for years, stepping into the ring and beating real boxers.
      “On Saturday, March 2 I will shock the world and put an end to Jake Paul’s boxing career.” More

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      in Athletics

      Who was Kelvin Kiptum’s coach Garvais Hakizimana?

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      KELVIN Kiptum of Kenya smashed the world record by 34 seconds when he won the Chicago Marathon on October 8, 2023.Here we take a look at the life and untimely death of the runner’s coach Garvais Hakizimana.
      Kelvin Kiptum and Gervais Hakizimana posing next to the clock marking Kiptum’s world record time at the the Chicago Marathon on October 8, 2023Credit: AFP
      Who was Kelvin Kiptum’s coach Garvais Hakizimana?
      Hakizimana, who hails from Rwanda, was a runner who first travelled to Kenya at the age of 18 in 2006 to train for the 2007 World Cross Country Championships in Mombasa.
      But just a few months later, when post-election violence erupted, he was forced to flee the country.
      According to the Marathon Handbook, Hakizimana met Kiptum while he was training in the town of Iten, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya — Kiptum was among the hang-ons who used to join the Rwandese man whenever he was training. 
      We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais HakizimanaLord Sebastian Coe
      A decade ago, when Kiptum was barely a teen, he herded sheep and goats before he began following Hakizimana and other runners as they trained.
      READ MORE ON KEVIN KIPTUM
      Before becoming a coach, Hakizimana was an athlete who competed against then-world record holder Eliud Kipchoge in the 2016 London Marathon — with Kipchoge winning the race.
      What was Garvais Hakizimana’s cause of death?
      Both Hakizimana and Kiptum were tragically killed in a motoring accident in the town of Kapsabet, Western Kenya.
      Hakizimana was 36 years old at the time of his passing, while Kiptum was just 24.
      The London Marathon-winning long-distance runner and his coach lost their lives after Kiptum lost control of his vehicle, before landing in a ditch and colliding with a tree.
      Most read in Athletics
      According to reports a third passenger, Sharon Kosgey, was also in the car at the time of the collision.
      She survived the impact but suffered serious injuries and was rushed to Racecourse Hospital to receive medical attention.
      The crash happened at approximately 11pm (8pm GMT) on Sunday, February 11, 2024, Elgeyo Marakwet Police Cmdr Peter Mulinge told the Nation newspaper.
      How Kelvin Kiptum went from borrowing shoes to winning London MarathonKelvin Kiptum was renowned for being the only person in history to run the marathon in under two hours and one minute.
      But the Kenyan, 24, had to rise from the depths of poverty prior to his remarkable success.
      When he lined up for his first major local competition in 2018, Kiptum did so wearing borrowed running shoes because he could not afford a pair of his own.
      Kiptum began his career on the road, breaking away from the past tradition of athletes starting on the track before switching to longer distances.
      But that wasn’t out of choice.
      Kiptum claims he made the decision purely because of a lack of resources.
      “I had no money to travel to track sessions,” he explained to BBC Sport Africa.
      “My training place is far from a track, so I started training with road-running guys – and that’s how I got into marathon.”

      He added: “This was a self-involved accident where one Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder, was driving his vehicle with two passengers.
      “Kiptum and Hakizimana died on the spot and the third person was rushed to Racecourse hospital in Eldoret.”
      What has been said about his death?
      President of World Athletics Lord Sebastian Coe released a statement reading: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
      “On behalf of all World Athletics, we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, team mates and the Kenyan nation.
      “It was only earlier this week in Chicago, the place where Kelvin set his extraordinary marathon World Record, that I was able to officially ratify his historic time.
      “An incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy, we will miss him dearly.”
      Former Kenyan prime minister Raila Odinga paid tribute on X, formerly Twitter, writing: “Devastating news as we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, Kelvin Kiptum, world record holder and Kenyan athletics icon.
      “Together with his coach, they tragically passed on in an accident tonight.
      “My deepest condolences to his loved ones, friends, and the entire athletics fraternity.
      Our nation grieves the profound loss of a true hero.”
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      London Marathon organisers also honoured Garvais and Kelving, saying: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear the terrible news of the death of marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
      “The thoughts of everyone at the TCS London Marathon are with Kelvin’s and Gervais’ family and friends.”
      Why it took Kiptum 23 YEARS to agree to run a marathonKiptum may have been a world record holder and champion but it took a lot of convincing to get him to run in the first place.
      According to his coach Garvais Hakizimana – who died alongside him this week – Kiptum needed time to warm up to the idea of running a marathon.
      The Kenyan initially feared that it might be too tough.
      “He had some fear and preferred the shorter half-marathon until 2022 when he finally agreed to a marathon,” Hakizimana told BBC Sport Africa.
      Fast forward a few years and Kiptum would have 42km triumphs in Valencia, London and Chicago.
      But there were also other complications getting in the way of Kiptum fulfilling his potential.
      Kiptum had to convince his family that he could make it in athletics.
      His father had been adamant that he should go to college instead.
      “He wanted me to study to pursue my diploma to be an electrician but I was saying that I needed to be an athlete – I had that passion,” Kiptum recalled.
      “That period was very hard for me because I trained for four years, yet there were no successes and they were disappointed in me. But I kept on pushing.”
      Eventually his father came around, even occasionally helping him get to early morning training on time. More

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      in Soccer

      Nigeria vs Ivory Coast LIVE RESULT: Afcon final latest – Haller WINS it for the hosts as Elephants fight from goal down

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      SEBASTIEN HALLER and Franck Kessie have fired hosts Ivory Coast to the Africa Cup of Nations trophy as the hosts battled from a goal down to win the game.The Super Eagles took the lead in the first-half after Super Eagles skipper William Troost-Ekong powered home a close range header.
      But Kessie fired home from close range to draw the Elephants, who sacked their manager during the group stage, level.
      Former West Ham striker Haller – who had a six-month fight with cancer – then completed a fairy tale ending, poking home a cross to earn the hosts the Afcon title.

      Match result: Nigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
      Nigeria XI: Nwabali, Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Aina, Onyeka, Iwobi, Sanusi, Chukwueze, Lookman, Osimhen.
      Ivory Coast XI: Fofana, Aurier, Kossounou, Ndicka, Konan, Kessie, Seri, Fofana, Gradel, Haller, Adingra.

      Follow all the action from the massive final in our live blog below…
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      Match report, Jon West:
      SEBASTIEN HALLER was the comeback hero as the Ivory Coast lifted the Africa Nations Cup in front of their own fans.
      Nigeria scored first in the thriller on Sunday night.
      But ex-West Ham forward Haller, now at Borussia Dortmund, netted a winner for 2-1 nine minutes from time to complete a remarkable personal journey as well.
      Haller, 29, had his career put on hold by cancer but returned to triumph on the continent’s biggest stage.
      Ivory Coast, who only just scraped through the group stage, bossed the opening exchanges.
      Veteran Max Gradel went close with an overhead kick into the side-netting.
      Read the rest of the match report, here….
      Copy linkCopiedSunSport MOTM:
      There were some incredible performances out there for Ivory Coast tonight.
      Jean-Michael Seri ran the show in midfield, and controlled the game absolutely brilliantly.
      Sebastian Haller completed his fairy-tale story and scored the winning goal, as well as proving a handful for the Nigerian defence throughout.
      Odilon Kossounou was exceptional at centre-half, as he has been for Bayer Leverkusen all season too.
      But the SunSport Man of the Match goes to Simon Adingra.
      I told you before the game kicked off that he was the young player to watch, and he showed his immense potential once again tonight.
      Brighton have got a gem on their hands that caused no end of problems for Ola Aina, and he picked up two assists to boot too.
      What a performance. Simon Adingra take a bow.
      Simon Adingra was the star of the show in the AFCON finalCredit: Reuters
      Copy linkCopiedNever give up
      Let Sebastian Haller’s story be one that inspires you all.
      Never. Give. Up.
      Sebastian Haller has an inspiring story to shareCredit: X – @FabrizioRomano
      Copy linkCopiedNew manager bounce?
      It looked like bad news for Ivory Coast when they removed incumbent manager Jean-Louis Gasset and replaced him with his assistant, Emerse Fae as interim head coach.
      But it turned out to be the best possible decision they could have made…
      Fae was able to immediately benefit from Afcon’s recent expansion from a 16-team tournament to a 24 team event, seeing his side qualify for the round of 16 as one of the best performing third place group stage teams.
      They had a few dramatic games in the RO16 and quarter-finals, with both going to extra-time, but the “zombie” team were able to reach the final in a more straight forward manner on Wednesday, beating DR Congo 1-0 courtesy of a Sebastien Haller strike.
      They then took it all the way tonight, overturning a one goal deficit to win 2-1 thanks to another bit of brilliance by Mr. Haller.
      What a story.
      Emerse Fae (pictured) replaced Jean-Louis Gasset mid tournamentCredit: Reuters
      Copy linkCopiedHeroic Haller!
      What a fairy-tale story that is.
      In July 2022 Sebastian Haller was diagnosed with testicular cancer, less than two years later he has scored the winner to make his country champions of Africa.
      If was a deft flick at the near post, following excellent work by Simon Adingra, which ended up in the top right corner.
      What a game, what a goal, what a story.
      That is the beauty of the African Cup of Nations.
      Sebastian Haller was the hero for Ivory CoastCredit: Reuters
      Copy linkCopiedFULL TIME! Nigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
      THEY HAVE DONE IT. IVORY COAST ARE AFRICAN CUP OF NATIONS CHAMPIONS!
      ABIDJAN ERUPTS!
      Abidjan erupts as Ivory Coast win the African Cup of NationsCredit: Reuters
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
      90+6. It’s lumped forward again and again by Nigeria, still to no avail.
      They need to get their foot on the ball, but Ivory Coast are doing so well to prevent them from doing so.
      Ivory Coast can sense it…
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
      90+3. The magnificent Jean-Michael Seri comes off to be replaced by Lazare Amani.
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
      90. There has been SEVEN minutes added on at the end of the ninety here.
      Nigeria are getting desperate.
      Jean Krasso is on for the heroic Haller, and Fofana is replaced by Sangare.
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
      87. There is still time for Nigeria here, who look like they are finally going to go for it in this game.
      There are two more changes for Nigeria in the dying moments, as forwards Terem Moffi and Joe Aribo are on for Frank Onyeka and Zaidu Sanusi.
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
      82. What a finish that is by Sebastian Haller, a toe on the cross that flew into the top right corner.
      That could just be the fairy-tale ending to this story.
      Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLLL! Nigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
      IVORY COAST TAKE THE LEAD, IT’S SEBASTIAN HALLER!
      Simon Adingra beats Ola Aina and crosses for Sebastian Haller to tap home! The Abidjan crowd is going WILD!
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
      78. Another chance for the players to catch a breather and some water as Osimhen goes down.
      Kelechi Iheanacho replaces Ademola Lookman and Alhassan Yusuf comes on for Alex Iwobi.
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
      75. Time for the second cooling break, with just 15 minutes plus stoppages to go.
      Copy linkCopiedSO CLOSE! Nigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
      74. That was almost it, that was almost the moment for Sebastian Haller and Ivory Coast.
      A cross is put into the middle for Simon Adingra, who heads it across goal for Sebastian Haller to attempt a bicycle kick.
      It floats just wide of the top corner, but we have seen him do that before.
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
      72. Adingra continues to tear up the left hand side for Ivory Coast, and the pressure is really starting to build.
      Osimhen cuts a very frustrated figure.
      Copy linkCopiedSUBS! Nigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
      70. Oumar Diakite is on for Max Gradel, who has been excellent so far.
      Wilfried Singo is on to replace Serge Aurier.
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
      67. Nigeria have a free kick in the attacking half, taken by Lookman into Troost-Ekong once more.
      It is a free header, but it floats over the crossbar.
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
      65. Only once in the previous ten renditions have we seen two goals in an AFCON final.
      Victor Osimhen is now pleading with his teammates to step forward and move the ball forward.
      Ivory Coast feel that they can take advantage of the moment here and get another.
      Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLLL! Nigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
      63. IVORY COAST LEVEL THE SCORING!
      It’s Kessie from the corner!
      Simon Adingra whips the ball in perfectly, for Kessie to head into the ground and into the net!
      That is what they have deserved, and Didier Drogba leads the celebrations for the Cote d’Ivoire faithful!
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-0 Ivory Coast
      62. Ivory Coast really putting on the pressure here.
      A diving header from Kessie is saved, and then a long shot from Kossounou leads to a corner for the hosts.
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-0 Ivory Coast
      60. Onyeka gives away another foul, on Kessie this time.
      Seri lashes a shot from distance following a lovely bit of skill, but it is wide of the mark.
      Copy linkCopiedSUB! Nigeria 1-0 Ivory Coast
      57. Excellent midfield play from Jean Michael Seri, who holds off Victor Osimhen and wins a throw in for his side.
      Samuel Chukwueze is substituted for Moses Simon.
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-0 Ivory Coast
      55. Stanley Nwabali and Serge Aurier are both given yellow cards by the referee following some choice words from both of them.
      The game is back underway and it is no penalty for the challenge on Max Gradel.
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-0 Ivory Coast
      52. One for VAR to look at here as Gradel goes down in the penalty area.
      The referee doesn’t give it, and I must say it doesn’t look like a penalty, it looks like Gradel is trying to buy that one…
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      Aston Villa vs Man Utd LIVE RESULT: McTominay climbs off the bench to make it three in a row after Hojlund scored again

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      SCOTT McTOMINAY climbed off the bench to score a late winner at Aston Villa as Manchester United made it three in a row.Rasmus Hojlund had opened the scoring – firing in AGAIN to make it five goals from his last five games.
      Douglas Luiz scored a deserved equaliser for Aston Villa, who enjoyed much of the play and chances, especially in the second half.
      However, it was super sub McTominay who stole all three points, powering in a perfect Diogo Dalot cross to keep Manchester United in the Champions League race.

      Match result: Aston Villa 1-2 Manchester United
      Aston Villa XI: Martinez, Cash, Lenglet, Diego Carlos, Moreno, McGinn, Kamara, Luiz, Ramsey, Bailey, Watkins.
      Manchester United XI: Onana, Dalot, Maguire, Varane, Shaw, Mainoo, Casemiro, Bruno, Rashford, Hojlund, Garnacho.

      Follow the action as it happened with our blog below…
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      That’s all from Villa Park
      After another exhilarating weekend of Premier League football, it has become clear that not only do we have a title race, we all have a charge for Champions League.
      And with a dramatic victory at Villa, Manchester United are very much in the mix as the season enters its final third.
      There’s still more to come with Crystal Palace and Chelsea set to do battle in the capital tomorrow night, and will be on hand to bring you all the action.
      Until then, it’s good ebening from Unai Emery, and goodnight from me.
      Copy linkCopiedEmery: Aston Villa deserved more
      A disappointed Unai Emery believes his side’s display did not deserve to end in defeat this afternoon.
      However, the Spanish coach insists his team are performing above themselves, and they are ahead of schedule in what they are attempting to build at Villa Park.
      We deserved more. We weren’t clinical today. Their goalkeeper made some very good saves and they were clinical. We are frustrated but we have to be positive. Manchester United are more of a contender to be where we are than us and we have a gap to them. We have to be strong in the mind and not lose our focus on how we are trying to build the team and be stronger. The performance today was how we are trying to build.Unai EmerySky Sports

      Copy linkCopiedExtra! Read all about it!
      Before we sign off for the evening, let us relive the action with Neil Custis’ match report of Manchester United’s thrilling 2-1 victory at Aston Villa.
      What a moment it was to finish an absolute thriller at The Villa which saw Rasmus Hojlund claim yet another goal with his sixth in seven games to open the scoring after 17 minutes. It was a cracking contest from the first whistle, a game full of passion and attacking intent on both sides. This was one clearly both sides were out to win.Neil CustisThe Sun

      Copy linkCopiedVilla running out of steam?
      A relentless force in the title race before Christmas, Aston Villa are now fluffing their lines just to stay in the battle for the top four.
      Having only lost three of their opening 18 Premier League games this season (W12 D3), Unai Emery’s team have now lost three of their last six (W2 D1).
      The run also includes back-to-back league defeats at Villa Park (and three in all competitions), a home ground where they set a club record of 15 straight wins between March and December.
      Copy linkCopiedTen Hag delighted with fighting spirit
      Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag revealed he was delighted with the response from his players after being pegged back by Aston Villa.
      The Red Devils founds themselves under the cosh for long periods after taking the lead, and looked unlikely to prevail once Douglas Luiz had equalised midway through the second half.
      But the visitors rallied and found a late winner when Scott McTominay came off the bench to head home four minutes from time.
      The result means United close the gap on Villa above them to five points and keeps them in contention for Champions League football.
      It is a massive win. We’ve got closer and that was the aim for today. The way we did it, I liked. I especially liked the first 20 minutes when we controlled the game. At 1-1 we had to fight back and we are really happy. Erik ten HagSky Sports

      Copy linkCopiedGreat Dane finding his groove
      After going his first 14 Premier League games without scoring, Rasmus Hojlund has now netted in each of his last five.
      And at 21 years and seven days, the Danish striker becomes the second-youngest player to achieve the feat, behind only Nicolas Anelka who did it for Arsenal in November 1998 (19y 239d).
      Copy linkCopiedScottish super sub sinks Villa
      With his late winner, Scott McTominay now has seven Premier League goals to his name this season, the most of any player for Manchester United.
      Four of those seven have come when introducted as a substitute, the joint-most by any player in the division in 2023-24 along with Brighton’s Joao Pedro.

      Copy linkCopiedFull time view from Villa Park
      Erik ten Hag had United fans scratching their heads when he replaced Marcus Rashford with Scott McTominay with 17 minutes remaining.
      But any thoughts that it was a defensive move were swept away as the Scottish super-sub struck United’s winner four minutes from the end of an epic 90 minutes.
      Kobbie Mainoo set up Diego Dalot wide on the right and the full-back swept in a stunning cross which McTominay pounced on to head powerfully beyond Emi Martinez.
      It was the Scot’s latest smash and grab act and it pulled United to within five points of Villa with their fourth win on the spin in all competitions.
      Villa will feel robbed as they dominated play after the break but Ten Hag’s switch paid off spectacularly.
      Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Villa Park
      Aston Villa’s 23 shots were the most in a single Premier League game this season, but they could only convert one when Douglas Luiz diverted in Leon Bailey’s cross.

      Copy linkCopiedFull time – Aston Villa 1-2 Man Utd 
      The final whistle goes – and the gap between Aston Villa in fifth and Manchester United in sixth is down to five points.
      It still sounds a tall order for the Red Devils, but it was five minutes away from being eight points and could have easily been 11.
      Scott McTominay was the hero, off the bench again to plunder a late winner.

      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-2 Man Utd 
      90+5. One last push for Villa as United drop all 11 men behind the ball.
      Tielemans can’t find room for the shot so Carlos takes over and loops a cross…
      …straight at Onana, who drops to the turf with the ball in his hands.
      United are almost there.
      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-2 Man Utd
      90+3. Garnacho almost seals it on the break but, not for the first time today, an important toe-in by Carlos helps the ball into the hands of Martinez.
      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-2 Man Utd
      90. Manchester United will have six minutes to see out if they are to register a big win. What do Villa have left?
      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-2 Man Utd – Aston Villa subsitutions
      88. As soon as the ball struck the back of the Villa net, Unai Emery moved to make some final changes.
      He’s thrown Nicolo Zaniolo and Lucas Digne for the final minutes with John McGinn and Alex Moreno making way.
      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-2 Man Utd 
      86. Scott McTominay doing Scott McTominay things!
      The much-maligned midfielder has once again come off the bench in a move questioned by many, and popped up with a late goal that could prove vital in the race for Champions League football.
      Kobbie Mainoo does brilliantly to hold up play down the right, and then lay the ball into the path of Diogo Dalot.
      The Portuguese defender opts to whip his cross over first time, and it’s perfect for the arriving McTominay to power beyond Emiliano Martinez.
      It triggers wild scenes of celebrations inside of the away section of Villa Park, and could – should – be enough for three points.

      Copy linkCopiedGreat Scott!

      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-1 Man Utd
      82. A lull in the stadium? Yes. A lull on the pitch? Most definitely. A lull on the touchline? You must be joking.
      Unai Emery is going crazy down there, screaming, jumping and pulling the kind of shapes Mr Motivator would be proud of.
      The Premier League is undoubtedly a better place with the Spaniard in it.
      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-1 Man Utd 
      80. Garnacho sets off another mazy run infield from the left.
      We knows he’s to good for Cash, but he also accelerates past Tielemans to provide himself room to shoot.
      It ends in disappointment though as he fails to get any power in his strike with the ball instead trundling through to his compatriot Martinez.

      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-1 Man Utd
      78. As we approach the final ten, there’s the consensus that both sides have settled for the point on offer – which kind of makes a mockery of Erik ten Hag calling the contest a must-win.
      Still, United have been really rocked by the need to replace the injured Luke Shaw at the break.
      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-1 Man Utd
      76. Casemiro spots his chance to grab the glory as he takes down a loose ball from 30 yards from goal.
      The touch is good, the push forward is better, the resulting shot? Meh, not so much.
      Copy linkCopiedThe view from Villa Park
      There was a surprise change at half-time for United as Erik ten Hag replaced Luke Shaw with Victor Lindelof at left back.
      It can only be assumed Shaw has an injury because Leon Bailey went on to create United headaches down the left.
      But when Villa threaten it’s down the right as Matty Cash flashes in a cross which is met by Ollie Watkins.
      However the striker’s shot crashes off Onana’s chest from point blank range.
      If you can’t be good be lucky!
      Matty Cash is the third player to be booked when he brings down Rashford.
      Villa are now well on top and Emery brings on striker Moussa Diaby for holding midfielder Boubacar Kamara.
      The pay off is almost instant as Douglas Luiz strikes to draw Villa level after 67 minutes.
      Leon Bailey’s corner is fired goalwards by Lenglet and although Onana saves the ball breaks back to Bailey.
      He picks out Douglas Luiz and the Brazilian beats Onana from close range.
      Game on!
      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-1 Man Utd – Aston Villa substitution
      74. And Villa follow suit with a change of their own.
      Like Rashford, Leon Bailey has been the pick of the attacking players on show, but his race is run and it’s time for Youri Tielemans.
      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-1 Man Utd – Man Utd substitution
      73. Marcus Rashford has looked a real threat at times today, but he’s going to sit the final stages out.
      Erik ten Hag decides to shore up proceedings with Scott McTominay.

      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-1 Man Utd – Diaby yellow card
      71. Off the ball, Aston Villa substitute Moussa Diaby has been cautioned for bundling over Bruno Fernandes.
      This game is anyone’s to win now.
      Copy linkCopiedAston Villa 1-1 Man Utd
      70. Garnacho goes close to restoring United’s lead!
      A darting run down the left leaves Cash for dead, and when he cuts back inside he lets fly with a low effort that beats Martinez’s outstretched arm – but also beats the post.
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      in Soccer

      Aston Villa vs Man Utd LIVE: Harry Maguire returns for injured Lisandro Martinez – team news, latest updates

      by

      HARRY MAGUIRE will START in place of the injured Lisandro Martinez as Manchester United hope to close the gap on the top four with a win against Aston Villa TODAY!The Red Devils picked up three points last time out with a comprehensive win over West Ham at Old Trafford.
      A win over the Villans could be a huge boost to Manchester United as they are currently eight points behind.
      Aston Villa have slowed their Champions League charge in recent weeks, having had a muddled set of results.
      Kick-off: 4.30pm GMT.
      TV channel/live stream: Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Football.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL

      Aston Villa XI: Martinez, Cash, Lenglet, Diego Carlos, Moreno, McGinn, Kamara, Luiz, Ramsey, Bailey, Watkins.
      Manchester United XI: Onana, Dalot, Maguire, Varane, Shaw, Mainoo, Casemiro, Bruno, Rashford, Hojlund, Garnacho.

      Follow all the action with our live blog below…
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      Red Devils remain absolutely Feb-ulous
      One of the more astonishing statistics to emerge in the build-up to this fixture is Manchester United’s ability to pick up points in February.
      In fact, the Red Devils are unbeaten in their last 24 Premier League matches to take place during the second month of the year (W15 D9) since losing 1-0 to Newcastle back in 2018 under José Mourinho.
      Copy linkCopiedHow Villa ended home hoodoo
      Unai Emery’s Aston Villa are a force to be reckoned with on their own patch, but that hasn’t always been the case – especially where Manchester United are concerned.
      The Villa won this won this exact fixture 3-1 last season, and in doing so ended a 23-game winless run at home to United in the Premier League.
      Goals from Leon Bailey and Lucas Digne had the hosts two-up inside the opening 11 minutes, and although a Jacob Ramsey own-goal on the stroke of half-time offered United hope, the Villa youngster netted in the right end straight after the break to seal the deal.
      A repeat today and it will be the first time that Villa have won consecutive home league games against the Red Devils since five in a row between 1966 and 1977.

      Copy linkCopiedMainoo man in United midfield
      Erik ten Hag makes just a single change to the team that eased past West Ham (don’t they all?) last weekend.
      Lisandro Martinez suffered an injury against the Hammers that is set to keep him out for a number of weeks, and so United’s Dutch coach recalls the experienced Raphael Varane.
      It means his midfield is once again marshalled by Casemiro and 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo, who has really caught the eye since breaking into the first team at Old Trafford.

      Copy linkCopiedVilla set to keep shape
      Unai Emery makes two changes to the side that he sent out to demolish Sheffield United last week.
      Ezri Konsa is set for a spell on the sidelines and so Matty Cash is drafted back in to replace him at right-back.
      Meanwhile, Youri Tielemans drops to the bench despite his goal at Bramall Lane, and his place in attacking midfield goes to Jacob Ramsey.
      Tielemans is also the one player to drop out of the team following Wednesday’s disappointing FA Cup exit at the hands of Chelsea.

      Copy linkCopiedTen Hag brings in Varane
      Man Utd (4-2-3-1): 24 Onana; 20 Dalot, 5 Maguire, 19 Varane, 23 Shaw; 18 Casemiro, 37 Mainoo; 17 Garnacho, 8 Fernandes, 10 Rashford; 11 Hojlund
      Subs: 1 Bayindir, 2 Lindelof, 4 Amrabat, 14 Eriksen, 16 Diallo, 21 Antony, 35 Evans, 39 McTominay, 62 Forson
      Credit: @ManUtd Twitter
      Copy linkCopiedCash back for Emery’s Villa
      Aston Villa (4-2-3-1): 1 Martinez; 2 Cash, 3 Carlos, 17 Lenglet, 15 Moreno; 44 Kamara, 6 Luiz; 31 Bailey, 41 Ramsey, 7 McGinn; 11 Watkins
      Subs: 25 Olsen, 8 Tielemans, 12 Digne, 14 Torres, 19 Diaby, 22 Zaniolo, 27 Rogers, 29 Kesler-Hayden, Iroegbunam
      Credit: @AVFCOfficial
      Copy linkCopiedVilla favourites to topple United
      Never mind the fact that Manchester United have won on 17 of their 28 Premier League visits to Villa Park, today is all about this United side and this Villa team – and, unsurprisingly, it sees the hosts chalked up as favourites at a shade of odds against.

      Aston Villa win 11/10
      Draw 11/4
      Man Utd win 2/1

      Odds from Paddy Power correct at the time of post publication.
      Copy linkCopiedGood afternoon from Villa Park
      Welcome to live SunSport coverage of Aston Villa against Manchester United in the Premier League.
      After Tottenham’s late, late show yesterday, Villa can move back into the Champions League places this afternoon – but only if they avoid defeat.
      That’s something the Claret and Blue have become adept at on home soil in the past year although they did falter last time out here against Newcastle.
      Kick-off is at 4.30pm, and teams news is coming up…

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