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      in Soccer

      Why does Real Betis star Borja Iglesias paint his nails?

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      REAL BETIS forward Borja Iglesias will be licking his lips as his side host a wounded Manchester United in the Europa League – and eagle-eyed fans have noticed a change in his appearanceIglesias has ten goals in La Liga this season and will be hoping to take advantage of the United backline’s recent shambolic performance at Anfield.
      Borja Iglesias is set to lead Real Betis’ front line against Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty
      Who is Borja Iglesias?
      The 6ft 2in striker was born in Santiago de Compostela in Spain in January 1993.
      He has played all of his professional playing career in the Spanish leagues.
      Borja Iglesias has scored 51 goals in the Spanish top flight, most of those goals playing in the colours of current side Real Betis.
      He has represented Spain just once in a 2-1 loss to Switzerland at the Nations League in 2022.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      Why does Borja Iglesias paint his nails?
      The Spanish striker started painting his nails before matches back in June 2020.
      Iglesias paints his nails in an act of solidarity
      The 30-year-old initially started doing it as an act of solidarity when the Black Lives Matter protests began in 2020.
      He later painted his nails multicoloured as the message also became about fighting homophobia as well as racism.
      Borja Iglesias has also openly spoken about mental health issues and the obstacles he has had to overcome in his life.
      Most read in Football
      Iglesias is also a big fan of Marcus Rashford’s work off the pitch, as he has often used his platform to give visibility to societal issues.
      The Spaniard believes football should be responsible to “create a safe space” and hopes younger generations bring a “more open mentality.” More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd vs Real Betis: United look to put Liverpool thrashing behind them in Europa League last 16 TONIGHT – TV, stream

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      JUST a week ago, Manchester United were riding high – and they’ll be hoping to rediscover that form TONIGHT.Erik ten Hag’s men got their hands on the Carabao Cup – their first piece of silverware in six years.
      Man Utd were ripped apart by arch-rivals Liverpool in their last match – can they bounce back in Europe with their Premier League dream in tatters?Credit: Rex
      Erik ten Hag could only watch on in shock as Liverpool put seven past UnitedCredit: PA
      And after suddenly closing the gap on Arsenal and Manchester City in the Premier League title race, they were on course for a shock Quadruple.
      United had been the form team in the country… until a trip up the M62 on Sunday.
      Ten Hag led his side to Anfield to take on a stuttering Liverpool side expected to be ripped apart by red-hot Marcus Rashford.
      In a barely-believable 90 minutes, Jurgen Klopp’s Reds showed signs of their old, rampant best as they stormed to a 7-0 win.
      READ MORE SPORT STORIES
      Liverpool played well, of course. But the manner of United’s second-half capitulation – conceding six times and seemingly having thrown in the towel – will be a huge concern to the boss.
      Famously-strict Ten Hag dragged his flops into training early on Monday morning – and turned up two hours before them as he plotted his next move.
      The boss has to figure out one simple thing: Was the Liverpool mauling a one-off, a fluke, an anomaly? Or was United’s incredible run simply just a purple patch?
      MAN UTD vs BETIS ODDS, PREDICTIONS AND BETTING OFFERS
      Most read in Football
      Ten Hag doesn’t have long to work it out, either, with Real Betis heading to Old Trafford for the first leg of their Europa League last 16 tie.
      The LaLiga team may be without star man Nabil Fekir – with the former Premier League target out for the season with an ACL tear – but have another trump card up their sleeve.
      Boss Manuel Pellegrini knows all about United from his days in the Premier League with rivals City and West Ham,
      And the Chilean boss boasts a strong record vs Man Utd – winning five and drawing one of his nine games in the Prem.
      Ten Hag must put any thoughts like that to the back of his mind and get his shellshocked squad to bounce back strongly.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      A commanding win on Thursday will go a long way to helping restore the confidence.
      But a defeat could send a few jitters through the Old Trafford ranks.
      A collapse at this stage in the season could be terminal for their hopes of winning any more silverware… or even clinging on to a top-four spot.

      What is their form like?
      Man Utd: Up until Sunday, very good. But now? It’s up in the air. It’s all about how Ten Hag can get his team to bounce back.
      United had been unbeaten in 11 matches – including their two-legged win over Barcelona – since a 3-2 defeat against Arsenal in January prior to the Kop shock.
      Real Betis: Solid, if unspectacular.
      The LaLiga side most-recently drew 0-0 with high-flying Real Madrid last weekend and are unbeaten since losing a 4-3 thriller vs Celta Vigo on February 4.
      What is the team news and any injuries to worry about?
      Man Utd: Ten Hag has no new injury concerns following the 7-0 thrashing by Liverpool, with Anthony Martial, Donny van de Beek and Christian Eriksen all long-term absentees.
      But the furious boss may decide to ring the changes.
      Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot had a tough day at the office, with both Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Tyrell Malacia pushing for starts.
      Wout Weghorst and Fred may also see their places in the XI come under threat following their performances with Jadon Sancho and Marcel Sabitzer expected to play.
      Real Betis: Missing Fekir through injury is a blow, but the club have back up in academy graduate Rodri.
      Otherwise, Pellegrini has a full squad to choose from.
      Who will be the star men?
      Man Utd: Marcus Rashford.
      Ten Hag is almost certain to ring the changes, but Rashford but surely remain – most likely as a central striker.
      The England star has been in red-hot form since the World Cup and the Liverpool defeat is unlikely to harm his stock.
      The boss is unlikely to rest players at this point in the competition, particularly with their spot in title race gone.

      Real Betis: Rodri.
      The academy hotshot has been fast-tracked into the Betis first XI in Fekir’s absence and performed admirably.
      How he performs up against Casemiro could determine the outcome of the game.
      SunSport prediction
      Man Utd 2 Real Betis 0
      When is Man Utd vs Real Betis?

      United’s home clash with Betis will take place TONIGHT – Thursday, March 9.
      The game will be held at Old Trafford.
      United vs Betis will get underway from 8pm UK time.

      What channel is it can it be live streamed?

      Man Utd vs Real Betis will be shown live on BT Sport 1 in the UK.
      You can live stream the action from the BT Sport app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.

      Read More on The Sun
      Odds

      Man Utd – 2/5
      Draw – 7/2
      Real Betis – 13/1

      *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes and correct at time of publication. More

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      in Boxing

      Lawrence Okolie vs David Light: Date, UK start time, stream, TV channel, undercard, odds for world title fight

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      LAWRENCE OKOLIE will defend his WBO cruiserweight title against David Light at the AO Arena in Manchester.The Sauce most recently defended his title against Michal Cieslak back in February 2022.
      Lawrence Okolie retained his WBO cruiserweight belt against Michal CieslakCredit: Reuters
      The Hackney-born boxer defeated Cieslak by unanimous decision.
      This will be the third time Okolie will be defending his WBO cruiserweight belt.
      David Light will be a tough test for the current champion, as the 31-year-old is currently undefeated with an impressive 20-0-0 record.
      When is Lawrence Okolie vs David Light?

      Lawrence Okolie vs David Light will take place on Saturday, March 25.
      The ring walks for the main event are expected to begin at approximately 10pm UK time.
      AO Arena in Manchester will be the venue.

      READ MORE IN BOXING
      What TV channel is Lawrence Okolie vs David Light on?

      Lawrence Okolie vs David Light will be shown Live on Sky Sports Action.
      Coverage is set to get underway from 7pm UK time.
      Alternatively, you can follow all the action on SunSport’s live blog.

      Can I stream Lawrence Okolie vs David Light?

      Yes, Sky Sports customers can stream the WBO cruiserweight title bout through the NOW app, which is free to download to your mobile or tablet.
      You can purchase a pass for 24hr of NOW for £11.98 or a 1-month pass for £34.99, this will allow you to watch the fight and give you access to 11 Sky Sports channels.
      A NOW smartphone-only pass costs just £5.99 if you are wanting to watch Okolie vs Light on the go.

      Who’s on the Lawrence Okolie vs David Light undercard?

      Main event: Lawrence Okolie vs David Light
      Frazer Clarke vs Rydell Booker
      Karriss Artingstall vs Linzi Buczynskyj
      Michael Gomez Jnr vs Levi Giles
      Rhys Edwards vs Brian Phillips
      Aaron McKenna vs TBA
      Callum Simpson vs TBA
      Samuel Antwi vs TBA
      Harvey Lambert vs TBA

      Odds

      Lawrence Okolie – 1/6
      Draw – 25/1
      David Light – 4/1

      Most read in Boxing
      *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes and are correct at the time of publication. More

    • 75 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Who was Blackpool fan Tony Johnson?

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      BLACKPOOL fan Tony Johnson tragically lost his life after an altercation between 15 football fans outside a pub following the Seasiders’ 0-0 draw with Burnley.The 55-year-old was found by police with a serious head injury outside the Manchester Pub on the Promenade in Blackpool.
      The Blackpool Tower was lit up tangerine in Tony’s memoryCredit: Dave Nelson
      Officers administered CPR at the scene before he was taken to hospital for emergency treatment.
      Mr Johnson sadly passed away after sustaining head injuries in the early hours of March 6.
      Who was Tony Johnson?
      Tony was a popular character amongst the fan base and regularly followed the Tangerines to home and away games.
      Blackpool fans have set up a GoFundMe to support his partner and family.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      A massive £14,219 has been raised in Tony’s memory so far, with the total still rising.
      What did Blackpool FC say?
      A statement released by the football club said: “Blackpool FC is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the news that supporter, Tony Johnson, tragically lost his life earlier this morning.
      “The Club will be offering an open book of condolence from 4pm in the Moretti Lounge, giving supporters the opportunity to pay their respects to Tony.
      “All of the thoughts of everyone at the football club go out to Tony’s family and friends.”
      Most read in Football
      Blackpool fans gathered at the Stan Mortensen stand at 4pm on March 6 to lay flowers and remember a lifelong Seasider.
      Club staff, players and fans all gathered to pay their respects to Tony.
      Anybody with information should call police on 101, quoting log 675 of March 6, or report it online.
      You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org. More

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      in Soccer

      When is Soccer Aid 2023, who is playing and how can I get tickets?

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      SOCCER AID is back again this year with another huge match-up between England and the Rest of the World.And for the first time there will be a female captain as Queen of the Jungle Jill Scott leads out England.
      Jermain Defoe is playing as Soccer Aid returnsCredit: PA
      Jill Scott is captaining EnglandCredit: Rex
      Scott said: “The Euros, The Jungle and now Soccer Aid for UNICEF – it’s the holy trinity!
      “I’ve won two of them, so just need Soccer Aid now to complete ‘The Treble’!
      “I think of all three, this might be the one I’m most nervous about, though – just look at the names involved!”
      “Buy a ticket, support this amazing cause and cheer us on!”
      While fellow Soccer Aid debutant Jack Wilshere said: “I can’t tell you how good these legends are and I’m told a few of the celebrities are quite handy too!”
      Soccer Aid for UNICEF has raised over £75m to help children all over the world.
      Last year’s match raised a record-breaking £15m.
      Old Trafford is playing host for the first time since 2018 – which was also the last time the Three Lions won the big charity match.
      Most read in Football
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST ONLINE CASINOS FOR 2023
      When is Soccer Aid 2023?
      Soccer Aid 2023 is taking place on Sunday, June 11.
      It will kick-off at 7.30pm.
      74,000 fans are expected to attend at Old Trafford.
      The match will be broadcast live on ITV 1, and streamed on ITVX.
      Dermot O’Leary and Alex Scott are presenting again this year
      Who is playing at Soccer Aid 2023?
      An array of debuting stars will be appearing at Soccer Aid this year.
      They are Jack Wilshere, Jill Scott, Joel Corry, Bugzy Malone, Karen Carney and Gary Cahill.
      While Usain Bolt, Sir Mo Farah, Paddy McGuinness, Jermain Defoe, Vicky McClure, Emma Hayes, Eni Aluko, Gary Neville, Paul Scholes, David James, Tom Grennan, Lee Mack, Steven Bartlett, Alex Brooker, Kem Cetinay, Chunkz and Robbie Keane are all returning in June.
      Dermot O’Leary and Alex Scott will again be presenting the match on ITV.
      Read More on The Sun
      How can I buy tickets for Soccer Aid?
      Tickets are available at socceraid.org.uk/tickets/
      A family of four (two adults, two children) can attend for £60. More

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      in Soccer

      Sporting vs Arsenal: Gunners readjust focus on Europa League aspirations after courageous Cherries comeback – stream, TV

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      ARSENAL take on Sporting in a mouth-watering Europa League knockout encounter – and they’ll be hoping for a smoother trip than their last match against Bournemouth.Mikel Arteta’s men were forced to dig deep after going TWO goals behind – with the first one coming inside nine seconds.
      Reiss Nelson scored a sublime stoppage time winner to secure Arsenal three pointsCredit: Rex
      But Reiss Nelson’s last-gasp strike helped the Gunners to snatch all three points from the Cherries on the weekend.
      However, the Arsenal boss will be determined to keep his side level-headed as they now face a Sporting side who have a huge pedigree in European football.
      Furthermore, the Portuguese giants have familiar face Hector Bellerin within their ranks and he’ll be eager to prove a point against some of his former teammates.
      When is Sporting vs Arsenal?

      Sporting’s tasty Europa League tie against Arsenal will take place on Thursday, March 9.
      It is scheduled to get underway at 5:45pm UK time – same time locally.
      Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal is the allocated arena for this huge match and it can host approximately 50,095.
      The Gunners were held to a goalless draw when these two sides last met in a 2018 Europa League group fixture.

      Read more on Arsenal
      What TV channel is it on and can it be live streamed?

      Sporting vs Arsenal will be broadcast LIVE on BT Sport 2 in the UK.
      Coverage is set to commence from 5:15pm UK time – 30 minutes before kick-off.
      Subscription members of BT Sport can stream the entire action live via the BT Sport website or BT Sport app.
      Alternatively, SunSport’s live blog will have minute-by-minute coverage of the match.

      What is the team news?
      Sporting boss Ruben Amorim will be hoping Dario Essugo will recover in time for the huge Arsenal clash.
      While it is likely to be too soon for Daniel Braganca despite returning to training from his cruciate ligament rupture last July.
      Elsewhere, Mikel Arteta will be sweating over the fitness of Eddie Nketiah who missed out on the courageous Bournemouth win.
      Most read in Europa League
      And Leandro Trossard after being dragged off early with what looked to be a suspected groin strain.
      Leandro Trossard was forced to come off early on the weekendCredit: Alamy
      However, this could result in a start for super sub Reiss Nelson following his heroic performance on the weekend.
      What are the odds?

      Sporting to win 5/2
      Draw 23/10
      Arsenal to win 11/10

      *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes are correct at time of publication More

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd vs Real Betis: Live stream, TV channel, team news and kick-off time for Europa League match-up

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      MANCHESTER UNITED will be looking for a big response as they take on Real Betis in the Europa League. United were thrashed 7-0 by rivals Liverpool on the weekend, putting doubt about Erik Ten Hag’s team back into the minds of supporters.
      Man Utd were beaten 7-0 by Liverpool at AnfieldCredit: PA
      The Dutchman has already criticised his players, calling them ‘unprofessional’ for the way in which they capitulated against the Reds.
      Bruno Fernandes was also called out as embarrassing by Gary Neville after the Portuguese’s on-field antics.
      And now United will be aiming to bounce back as they take on La Liga side Betis in the last-16 of Europe’s secondary competition.
      When is Man Utd vs Real Betis?

      United’s home clash with Betis will take place on Thursday, March 9.
      The game will be held at Old Trafford.
      United vs Betis will get underway from 8pm UK time.

      What channel is it can it be live streamed?

      Man Utd vs Real Betis will be shown live on BT Sport 1 in the UK.
      You can live stream the action from the BT Sport app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.

      Team news
      Ten Hag has no major injury concerns following the 7-0 thrashing by Liverpool, but he may decide to ring in some changes.
      Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot had a tough day at the office, with both Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Tyrell Malacia pushing for starts.
      Wout Weghorst and Fred may also see their places in the XI come under threat following their performances.
      Most read in Football
      Odds

      Man Utd – 2/5
      Draw – 7/2
      Real Betis – 13/1

      *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes and correct at time of publication. More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea vs Dortmund: Blues hope to contain Bellingham and Co as they eye Champions League last-16 comeback – stream, TV

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      WINNING against Leeds was a small step in the right direction for Chelsea.But victory over Borussia Dortmund would feel like an enormous leap for Graham Potter and his beleaguered Blues.
      Chelsea finally got back to winning ways against LeedsCredit: Getty
      Borussia Dortmund have won 11 games out of 11 in 2023Credit: AP
      Chelsea welcome Jude Bellingham and Dortmund to Stamford Bridge on Tuesday with a 1-0 deficit to overturn from the first leg.
      In a boost to Potter and Co, Karim Adeyemi, the scorer in Dortmund, remains an injury doubt for the game.
      The Blues will also be buoyed by Wesley Fofana’s 53rd minute winner on Saturday that sealed a first three points since January.
      However, goals remain a problem.
      Read more on Chelsea
      Fofana’s effort was just the SEVENTH time the Blues have netted in all competitions since November 6.
      Dortmund on the other hand are a winning machine.
      Edin Terzic’s side have won 11 out of 11 games in 2023, scoring 30 goals in the process.
      Stopping Dortmund won’t be easy, but the green shoots from Saturday’s win over Leeds will give the Blues belief of progressing to the Champions League quarter-finals.
      Most read in Champions League
      The Blues were unlucky not to score at least once in Dortmund last month.
      And they know that, realistically, their only chance of playing in the competition next season will be winning it this campaign.
      However, the need to go out on the front foot could leave Potter’s side vulnerable on the counter-attack, and an early Dortmund goal would leave them with a mountain to climb.
      What is their form like?
      Chelsea’s win over Leeds was just a third victory in 16 games.
      On the other hand Borussia Dortmund have been faultless in 2023, winning 11 out of 11 in all competitions.
      What is the team news and any injuries to worry about?
      Reece James is set to return after missing the weekend’s win over Leeds.
      N’Golo Kante and Christian Pulisic have also taken part in training ahead of the match.
      Mason Mount is suspended after picking up three yellow cards in the competition, while Thiago Silva remains out with a knee injury.
      Meanwhile Dortmund could be without goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, who was injured in the warm-up against RB Leipzig at the weekend.
      Adeyemi is also a doubt, as is Donyell Malen, while Youssoufa Moukoko, Julien Duranville and Mateu Morey all sidelined.
      Who will be the star men?
      This game could come down to the midfield battle between two of the world’s top talents.
      The tussle between Bellingham and Enzo Fernandez in the middle of the park is poised to be a fascinating watch.
      And whoever comes out on top could drag their respective teams to victory in the process.
      Jude Bellingham’s Bundesliga stats this season make for impressive reading
      Enzo Fernandez has one assist in five Premier League games since joining Chelsea
      What have the managers said?
      Potter is looking forward to unleashing winger Raheem Sterling against Dortmund on Tuesday.
      The boss told club media: “Raheem’s goalscoring record in the Champions League speaks for itself.
      “He’s an experienced, proven campaigner in that competition and we’re looking forward to having him on the pitch on Tuesday, hopefully enjoying his football and contributing to us winning and going through.”
      SunSport prediction
      Don’t be fooled by the recent form, Chelsea could have earned at least a draw in the first-leg last month.
      And Saturday’s win over Leeds will kick them into gear for this huge clash – but it won’t be easy.
      Home advantage will see the Blues progress, but don’t be surprised if this game goes the distance.
      Prediction: 2-0 Chelsea (after extra time)
      When is Chelsea vs Dortmund?

      Chelsea’s crunch Champions League second leg tie against Borussia Dortmund will take place on TOMORROW – Tuesday, March 7.
      It is scheduled to get underway at 8pm UK time.
      Stamford Bridge will play host to the match.
      Dortmund ran out 1-0 winners in the reverse fixture.

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

      Chelsea vs Borussia Dortmund will be broadcast LIVE on BT Sport 1 in the UK.
      Coverage is set to commence from 7pm UK time – a whole hour before kick-off.
      Subscription members of BT Sport can stream the entire action live via the BT Sport website or BT Sport app.
      Alternatively, SunSport’s live blog will have minute-by-minute coverage of the match.

      What are the odds?

      Chelsea to win 17/20
      Draw 5/2
      Dortmund to win 16/5

      To qualify
      Read More on The Sun

      Chelsea 1/1
      Dortmund 8/11

      *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes are correct at time of publication More