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    Fulham 0 Crystal Palace 3: Ebere Eze’s magic sends Glasner’s side off to Wembley for FA Cup semi-final

    CRYSTAL PALACE produced a stunning FA Cup splash-and-grab to book a semi-final date at Wembley.Jean-Philippe Mateta – donning his water polo-inspired protective headguard – barely made a ripple on his Eagles return.Ebere Eze’s magic sent Crystal Palace into the FA Cup semi-finalCredit: GettyHe curled a superb finish in off the far post at Craven CottageCredit: ReutersInstead, Eberechi Eze and Ismaila Sarr stepped up to grab two goals in four first-half minutes, blowing a stunned Fulham out the water at Craven Cottage.A third goal against the run of play in the 75th minute sealed it thanks to second-half sub Eddie Nketiah.Marco Silva – enjoying his 500th game in management – will be scratching his head for weeks at this scoreline, shocked by how his Fulham boys failed to see this one out after such a dominant but toothless showing.The Portuguese coach will also be wondering what might have been had Adam Wharton received a second yellow for a 22nd-minute kick-out at Rodrigo Muniz.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFor now, Fulham’s 50-year wait to reach a domestic cup final goes on. Meanwhile, Austrian boss Oliver Glasner’s hero status in South London has hit new heights. The Selhurst faithful will genuinely be believing this is finally their time in the most open FA Cup for years – even if they were outplayed for large parts on the banks of the Thames.Mateta’s comeback was another positive for Palace and Glasner – the Frenchman making his first appearance since requiring 25 stitches in his left ear after being hit with a horrific kung-fu kick by Millwall keeper Liam Roberts in the fifth round on March 1.A bizarre-looking headband covering the ear made its debut. Glasner joked in the build-up he looked like a water polo star, while his team-mates compared Mateta to a WWE wrestler.Most read in FA CupUnsurprisingly, he looked rusty and leggy, unable to add to his 15 goals in all competitions so far this term in this 69-minute outing, with chances few and far between for the visitors.Silva also made a big decision, bringing in Muniz to lead the line after his impressive goal-scoring display to down Tottenham in the Premier League before the international break, dropping Raul Jimenez to the bench.Why Man City could be dumped out of the FA Cup by Bournemouth | Experts’ best bets – Weekend WagerThe early signs were promising. Inside the opening two minutes, Muniz outmuscled Marc Guehi, nipped past Maxence Lacroix and curled just wide of Dean Henderson’s far post.The Cottage was rocking. The noise was sensational. White and black flags had draped the stands before kick-off while red and blue balloons bounced around the away end. Early kick-offs in the cup are often recipes for tame, muted affairs, but this one – smothered in sunshine – had the feel of a final. Both sides recognised what a chance this was.Fulham continued to pile on the pressure, suffocating Palace. Sander Berge’s long-range shot was deflected wide by the hand of a lunging Jefferson Lerma. VAR weren’t fussed.Muniz then sent a header from a corner straight into the arms of Henderson. The visitors were struggling for a solution. Mateta cut an isolated, frustrated figure.He almost got his chance as Sarr skipped in front of Calvin Bassey on the edge of his box – only for his cut-back to be comfortably dealt with.It seemed inevitable Fulham would score. Bassey, this time rampaging forward, made the most of a mistimed Guehi clearance but his tee-up for Andreas Pereira was wasted.Soon after, Wharton kicked out at Muniz off the ball in the middle of the pitch, having already picked up a yellow for wiping out Willian in the 14th minute.Ref Darren England, surrounded by furious Fulham players, opted to give Wharton the benefit of the doubt. In hindsight, it was a huge let-off for Palace, one they would take advantage of.Lerma had just smacked the bar with an audacious volley, and in the 34th minute, Eze was given too much space to cut in off the left and curl a beauty in off the post from 25 yards, shushing the home fans with a smile.Palace’s cup king, four of Eze’s last five goals have come away from the Prem.Shell-shocked and downbeat, Fulham’s reaction could not have been worse, backing off Eze yet again, this time the England international going on the outside and getting a cross in.Sarr had wriggled free of Bassey’s grasp for the simplest of flicked headed finishes.In truth, Fulham never looked like getting back into it from there. Palace were beginning to enjoy themselves, especially Wharton, suptuously pirouetting on the ball around two players just before the break.The Cottage demanded an almighty response, a memorable comeback. They received neither. The air had been let out of Fulham’s FA Cup balloon.READ MORE SUN STORIESTheir second-half highlight included a deflected Willian effort off Wharton that was palmed away by Henderson and a subsequent goalmouth scramble from a corner that Bassey somehow failed to convert.Sticking to the script of the day, Palace then struck against the run of play once more, Nketiah – who had replaced Mateta – slipped in down the left and poking a cute finish through the legs of his old Arsenal pal Bernd Leno.Adam Wharton was fortunate not to get sent offCredit: AlamyIsmaila Sarr headed in the second for the EaglesCredit: AlamyEddie Nketiah rolled in for 3-0Credit: ReutersNketiah was all smiles as he put the result beyond any doubtCredit: ReutersJean-Philippe Mateta returned to action with protection for his earCredit: GettyPalace fans revelled in their side’s emphatic winCredit: GettyMarco Silva knows this was a glorious chance for Fulham to win the FA CupCredit: AFP More

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    Jean-Philippe Mateta wears water polo-style helmet as he starts for Crystal Palace three weeks after horror head injury

    JEAN-PHILIPPE MATETA wore a water polo-style helmet on his return from a horror head injury.The Crystal Palace striker was taken to hospital after being on the receiving end of a sickening tackle in the last round of the FA Cup against Millwall.Jean-Philippe Mateta is wearing a helmet against FulhamCredit: GettyIt is reminiscent of a water polo hatCredit: PAMateta has not played since suffering an ear injury in the previous round of the FA CupCredit: GettyThe Eagles won the clash 2-1 to set up Saturday’s quarter-final clash with Fulham, but Mateta had not played since.He required 25 stitches in his ear and was spotted wearing a big bandage in a recent interview.On his return to action Mateta wore a water polo-style helmet to protect his ear and helped Palace to a 3-0 win at Craven Cottage.There was serious planning to put into the helmet’s design, with three versions considered.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMateta, 27, wore the helmet in a behind-closed-doors friendly, with Eagles boss Oliver Glasner joking afterwards that the helmet was better suited to water polo.He said: “It’s like a water polo helmet. In water polo it’s so they don’t get water into their ears, he has it just on one side. It sounds crazy, but we are used to it.“I said to him maybe you should try [water polo] because he’s tall enough.”It looks a bit strange but he says he feels comfortable so let’s see.Most read in FA CupBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS“When he scores a header, then it was the right mask and the right protection.“Our doctor and the team did a great job finding the right protection. Everything is approved by the FA.’Endangered his life’ – Crystal Palace owner gives Mateta injury update live on BBC and slams ‘reckless’ Millwall star“There were three different ones. He tried one like you use to ride a motorbike but he couldn’t train with this because it was too heavy.“I said to the doctor I remember Petr Cech wearing a helmet but the ear was free so we needed the full helmet. Then we found the right one.“He tried in training which one fits him best and doesn’t influence him in the wrong way.“If I believed it was a problem, I wouldn’t play him but it looks like it isn’t a problem.“The last 10 days he’s had this protection and he did well in training so I didn’t find a reason to talk about this.” More

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    Fulham vs Crystal Palace live stream FREE: How to watch FA Cup quarter-final today

    FULHAM go head-to-head with London rivals Crystal Palace for a spot in the FA Cup semi-finals TODAY.Both sides have aspirations of going all the way in football’s oldest competition, with many of the big boys already out of the conversation.Fulham knocked out Manchester United on penalties in the FA Cup fifth roundCredit: AlamyCrystal Palace avoided an upset against MillwallCredit: GettyNeither Fulham nor Crystal Palace have won the FA Cup in their history, but they do have three final appearances between them.The Cottagers’ only final came in 1975, when they were beaten 2-0 by West Ham, while the Eagles have made two appearances (1990 and 2016) but they were beaten by Manchester United on both occasions. Palace are set to be boosted by the return of striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who was on the receiving end of a horror challenge from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts in the last round, which left the Frenchman needing 25 stitches to his left ear.Fulham have some firepower of their own with both strikers Raul Jimenez and Rodrigo Muniz in fine goalscoring form of late.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis afternoon’s FA Cup tie promises to be a thriller as the two London rivals battle for a spot at Wembley.SunSport brings you all the information you need so you don’t miss a minute of action at Craven Cottage.How to watch Fulham vs Crystal Palace for FREEFulham’s huge FA Cup quarter-final tie with Crystal Palace will be broadcast live on ITV1.You can live stream all the action for FREE via the ITVX app/website.Most read in FA CupThe match will kick off at 12.15pm GMT on Saturday, March 29, with coverage beginning at 11.30am.Mark Pougatch will be on presenting duties, while Karen Carney and Ian Wright will provide analysis.Seb Hutchinson and Ally McCoist are on commentary for the London derby at Craven Cottage. More

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    I’m the TENTH member of my family to play for my country – I’ve already beaten England, now I want to cause FA Cup shock

    STEFAN THORDARSON has a remarkable football heritage.The Preston midfielder is one of TEN internationals in his family tree.Stefan Thordarson is one of Preston North End’s star menCredit: PAThe midfielder comes from Icelandic footballing royaltyCredit: PAHis great-grandfather played in Iceland’s first-ever competitive gameCredit: SUPPLIEDThordur Thordarson with son Stefan pictured in 2020Credit: SUPPLIEDAnd as the Iceland star prepares to take on Premier League giants Aston Villa at Deepdale on Sunday, he said: “As soon as you’re born in my family, a ball is put in front of your feet!“It feels like almost everyone I’m related to has played for Iceland!”Thordarson, 26, has been capped 28 times — including playing in the 1-0 Wembley win over England last June.And his dad Thordur, uncle Stefan who played for Stoke, great-uncles Olafur and Teitur and great-grandad Thordur have also represented their homeland.READ MORE SPORTS NEWSBut it does not stop there.Branching off from his great-great-grandmother, he is related to former Iceland star Petur Petursson, who played for Feyenoord, Anderlecht and Royal Antwerp.And through his great-grandma he is also related to Arni Sveinsson, Sveinn Teitsson and Sigursteinn Gislason — who were all capped by their country too.Finally, although not picked by Iceland, his older brother Thordur Thorsteinn Thordarson has been a professional footballer playing in the top flight back home, while cousin Oliver Stefansson is currently with Swedish team IFK Norrkoping.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSPreston’s secret weaponBy Justin AllenASTON VILLA had better beware — Preston’s secret weapon is gunning for them.Iceland midfielder Stefan Thordarson was brought up learning the art of slaying giants and is bidding to stun the Prem side in the FA Cup.Villa, who travel to the Championship outfit tomorrow in the quarter-finals, only need to ask defender Ezri Konsa how you write off the 26-year-old at your peril. When the England star faced Thordarson last June, the Three Lions lost 1-0 at Wembley in their final warm-up for Euro 2024.And the North End midfielder said: “That was a perfect day to play and win against such a talented England team at the iconic Wembley in front of 81,000 fans.“I’d love to go there again for the semi-finals. We want to take this club to Wembley.“Villa have international players in every position, but we’re going to try to do what we do best — dominate the game in the way we want to.”If North End, who sit 14th in the second tier, pull off a shock, it will be the third consecutive year a Championship side have made a Wembley FA Cup semi-final.Coventry were controversially beaten by eventual winners Manchester United on penalties under the arch last season after VAR ruled out what would have been a 120th-minute Haji Wright winner.While Preston boss Paul Heckingbottom took Sheffield United there in 2023 where they lost to Manchester City, who again went on to lift the famous old trophy.Thordarson was in the side that beat Fulham in the Carabao Cup earlier this season after a thrilling 16-15 shootout win.And he has always believed no team is unbeatable since watching his homeland famously knock England out in the last 16 of Euro 2016 — arguably the Three Lions’ most humiliating defeat at a major finals.Thordarson added: “It was the biggest day in Iceland’s sporting history, so we know all about upsets.“It was a huge moment because we all look up to the Premier League and England.“That Iceland side inspired an entire generation of footballers that anything is possible.“We know Villa are a top European side and you can see that in the Champions League.“But as we’ve seen from FA Cup history — and our Iceland team — nothing is impossible.”Altogether, his family have amassed 299 caps and 42 goals for Iceland – of which Thordarson has scored one.Thordarson said: “I’m fortunate to have a family who know what I’m going through as a footballer and they’ve been a major help.Unai Emery proud as Aston Villa compete victory against Club Brugge “The main one is my dad, who played as a goalkeeper back home but had two years in Sweden too at IFK Norrkoping.“And then there’s my uncle Stefan — who I’m named after. He was a striker with Stoke between 2000-02.“My middle name is Teitur, which I get from my great-uncle. He played for Lens and Cannes in France.“He was a great goalscorer and in the 1981-82 season he got 19 for Lens, which was only three behind Les Bleus legend Michel Platini, who was playing for Saint-Etienne that year.“Teitur was the Estonia national team coach and managed a lot of teams in Norway and Iceland as well as Vancouver Whitecaps in Canada. I look up to him a lot.“Then going further back there’s my great-grandfather Thordur, who was in the Iceland team for their first-ever competitive match, against France, when we were allowed to enter the qualifying stages for the 1958 World Cup.”Thordur also scored against an amateur England side in 1956 — classed as a B international as Iceland were not professionals at the time.Stefan Thordarson’s, great uncle, Teitur, also played football before going into managementCredit: SUPPLIEDThordarson added: “I’m lucky to have all these role models. I’m always talking to dad and my uncle who played for Stoke.“Once or twice a year I meet my great-uncles too. Everyone has always been a huge help in my career.”Thordarson is the THIRD player in Preston history to not only come from Iceland but herald from Akranes on the west coast.The town is a 30-minute drive from the capital Reykjavik and has also produced North End midfielder Bjarki Gunnlaugsson (1999-2002) and striker Thordur Gudjonsson (2002).Akranes, with an official population of 8,452, has also produced the likes of ex-Aston Villa, Wolves, Leicester, Burnley and Huddersfield midfielder Joey Gudjonsson and former Wolves striker Bjorn Bergmann Sigurdarson.And current Iceland head coach Arnar Gunnlaugsson, who played for Bolton, Leicester and Stoke, is also from the town.Thordarson said: “There cannot be many places in the world that have produced so many pro footballers from such a small population.“When you’re brought up, it’s all about football. Our hometown team won everything in the 1980s and early 1990s.”Not surprisingly, his role model growing up was Iceland’s most famous player — former Barcelona, Chelsea and Bolton star Eidur Gudjohnsen.And Thordarson was almost starry-eyed when the great man was his Under-21s coach.He said: “Eidur was a huge inspiration. To come from Iceland and get into that Barcelona team alongside the likes of Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, Xavi and Deco was amazing.“It was such a great honour to play for him.”Thordarson is driven to follow in Gudjohnsen’s footsteps by reaching the Premier League and said: “That’s why I moved to England. That has always been my dream.”Stefan Thordarson was inspired by former Chelsea and Iceland star Eidur GudjohnsenCredit: GETTYAs a kid, he grew up watching English football and his favourite team were Arsenal — idolising Thierry Henry, Robert Pires and, in particular, Cesc Fabregas.The Preston star revealed: “I had an English coach back home called Dean Martin.“He still lives in Iceland but is from London and is a big Arsenal fan. He got some of us to be Gooners too.“It was at the time of the Invincibles. The way that team played under Arsene Wenger — and Cesc? Wow.“The way he was and how he moved on the field with his upbringing from Barcelona. It was a joy to watch.”After playing for his local club, Thordarson moved to Denmark and played four seasons for Silkeborg.And in the 2022-23 season, he played against West Ham in the Conference League group stage.Thordarson joined Preston last July and he has quickly established himself as a fans’ favourite.He said: “It’s been an eventful first season. We lost manager Ryan Lowe, who signed me, after just one game.“We had a good Carabao Cup run by beating Fulham 16-15 on penalties and I got the chance to play Arsenal.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Despite the 3-0 loss, that was a great experience.“And now we’re in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. Beating Burnley 3-0 in the last round was one of the best atmospheres I’ve ever played in.”Stefan Thordarson helped Iceland get the better of England last summerCredit: AFP More

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    ‘He looks like a wrestler’ – Jean-Philippe Mateta to wear WATER POLO helmet in FA Cup clash after horror ear injury

    JEAN-PHILIPPE MATETA will be wearing a water polo-style protective headband on his Crystal Palace return on Saturday.And Eagles boss Oliver Glasner has insisted: “If I didn’t believe he was ready, I wouldn’t play him.”We imagine how Mateta might look in his water polo helmetJean-Philippe Mateta was pole-axed by Liam Roberts in Crystal Palace’s FA Cup clash with MillwallCredit: REUTERSThe horror tackle resulted in Mateta receiving 25 stitches to his earCredit: SKY SPORTSThe Frenchman has been wearing protective padding in trainingCredit: INSTAGRAM@CPFCHe’s set to don a water polo-style protective headband upon his return to the first teamCredit: DECATHLONFrench striker Mateta is set to start Palace’s FA Cup quarter-final clash at Fulham – his first appearance since requiring 25 stitches in his ear after being hit with a dangerous kung-fu kick by Millwall keeper Liam Roberts in the fifth round on March 1.After trialling three different versions, Mateta has been training over the international break in his FA-approved protective head guard – including in a behind-closed-doors match – which has been jovially mocked by Glasner and the Palace squad.Glasner explained: “It’s like a water polo helmet. In water polo it’s so they don’t get water into their ears, he has it just on one side. It sounds crazy, but we are used to it.“I said to him maybe you should try [water polo] because he’s tall enough. READ MORE SPORTS NEWS”It looks a bit strange but he says he feels comfortable so let’s see.“When he scores a header, then it was the right mask and the right protection. “Our doctor and the team did a great job finding the right protection. Everything is approved by the FA.“There were three different ones. He tried one like you use to ride a motorbike but he couldn’t train with this because it was too heavy.Most read in Football“I said to the doctor I remember Petr Cech wearing a helmet but the ear was free so we needed the full helmet. Then we found the right one.JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSOliver Glasner has no reservations about throwing Jean-Philippe Mateta back into the fireCredit: REUTERS“He tried in training which one fits him best and doesn’t influence him in the wrong way.”If I believed it was a problem, I wouldn’t play him but it looks like it isn’t a problem.Crystal Palace star Mateta stretchered off with horror injury after shock kung-fu kick from Milwall keeper who sees red“The last 10 days he’s had this protection and he did well in training so I didn’t find a reason to talk about this.”Asked whether there is a risk Mateta may not be the same player because of it, Glasner continued: “I watched him in training, he looks the same as he did before.“He needed to get back into his rhythm because he couldn’t really train for two weeks. “One week he was at home, the second he was training individually.“It’s also lucky that in this situation nothing was fractured and there was no concussion, it was just the ear although it was a terrible injury.“Some players say that the ear looks better than before!”Palace defender Chris Richards – who once played with a protective mask after breaking his nose while in Germany – added: “It can be restricting but I think he’ll be fine.“[Mateta] enjoys the attention. He’s got that bionic ear now. He looks like a wrestler.READ MORE SUN STORIES”With the headband, we were also saying he looks like the American tennis player Francis Tiafoe.”On if he has given Mateta any advice, Richards laughed: “No, no. He won’t listen to me anyway.” More

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    Best FA Cup bets from scorned England star with point to prove to the tie destined for penalty shootout

    SUNSPORT’S Weekend Wager is back for another week, packed full of expert insight and razor-sharp analysis to bring you the best-value bets ahead of this weekend’s actionJoining top broadcaster Toni Afoke is our very own deputy head of sport Dean Scoggins and Betfair betting expert Sam Rosbottom.Nottingham Forest are set to take on Brighton this weekendCredit: GettyWith the international break done and dusted, our team take a look at the best of the FA Cup action.They check out the value bets from Brighton’s quarter-final with high-flying Nottingham Forest.While they also pick through Bournemouth’s intriguing tie with Manchester City.The trio then take a look at this weekend’s IPL and racing action.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBrighton vs ForestDean Scoggins – Gibbs-White two shots on target – 11/2I’m going Morgan Gibbs-White, Morgan Gibbs-White is the man for this weekend.I’ll tell you why, it’s because he got snubbed by England.He is going to be absolutely raring to go, flying out the blocks.Most read in FootballMorgan Gibbs-White to have two shots on target is 11/2. The stat for you is that he only averages just under one shot per 90 this season, but that isn’t in an open game, in a cup game.I just fancy him to get a load of joy. Be it a free-kick, a goal, or a shot on target in open play.Morgan Gibbs-White wasn’t named in Thomas Tuchel’s initial England squadCredit: GettyToni Afoke – Forest to win on penalties – 11/1I’m going to go with Forest to win on penalties. The reason I’m doing this is three of Forest’s last five FA Cup ties have gone down to penalties.Even though I know they completely spanked Brighton 7-0, I just feel that Brighton are going to have that edge against them.Overall they’ve won all four of their FA Cup shootouts, and I remember Brighton losing penalty shootouts, specifically against Man Utd in the 2022-23 season, I’m going Forest there.Forest beat Ipswich on penalties in the fifth roundCredit: AlamySam Rosbottom – Van Hecke to be fouled – EvensI’m looking at the to be fouled market. And I’m looking at Jan Paul van Hecke to be fouled one or more times at even money.I know you’re probably shouting at screens, ‘why are you shouting up a centre-half to be fouled?’I think it’s going to be a big battle between him and Chris Wood, who is a little bit of an injury doubt, but if he does play he’s a man that likes to put himself about.Jan Paul van Hecke has been fouled six times in his last four matches for Brighton. Chris Wood has committed seven fouls in his last six games.Could be a key battle and I could see Jan Paul van Hecke being fouled at least once.”Jan Paul van Hecke could be in the thick of the actionCredit: RexBournemouth vs Man CityDean Scoggins – Justin Kluivert to commit three or more fouls – 5/2I went to the Spurs-Bournemouth game a couple of weeks ago and Justin Kluivert was everywhere.Not just in attack but putting himself around. He makes fouls. He averages 1.74 fouls per 90 as an attacker. In that Tottenham game, he should have been sent off by the way, he was booked and made another foul after.So I’m interested in the fouls market. Three or more fouls in this game is 5/2 and against a Man City side who will have loads of the ball I fancy Kluivert to make more than two fouls and get to that three fouls mark.Justin Kluivert may attract attention from the officialsCredit: AlamyToni Afoke – Bournemouth to win and BTTS – 16/5″I’m going for Bournemouth to win and both teams to score. I’m giving City a bit of a chance because I feel like they will score, it would be weird for Bournemouth to get a clean sheet at the Vitality.I just feel, even though Bournemouth have been slightly going down, they have something against a vulnerable Man City side.Bournemouth could be onto a winner this weekendCredit: RexSam Rosbottom – Tavernier to have three or more shots – 6/5I’m also looking at the shots market in this one. Not shots on target though, just the shots market.It’s Marcus Tavernier to have three or more shots at 6/5. Now, why I like this one is because when it comes to shots, FA Cup, everybody’s gonna be looking to Semenyo.However, Marcus Tavernier has had 15 shots in his last five FA Cup matches. Going forward he’s a real threat for Bournemouth.Coming up against potentially Gvardiol if he’s fit, obviously we know how high Gvardiol likes to get forward – there could be a bit of space to exploit there. That’s one for me that’s a very nice option.How Pep can ignite Marmoush and Haaland partnership with aggressive attacking shape in FA CupIPL CRICKETSam Rosbottom – Team of Top Batsman – Gujarat Titans – EvensWhat a start we’ve had to the IPL. Some big, big scores we’ve seen in matches, almost records being broken. There was one match where they were one run away from the highest total in an IPL game.I’m looking at Saturday’s game. Gujarat Titans against the Mumbai Indians. Mumbai Indians one of the big favourites to win the IPL this season.They are fancied in this game at 4/5, Gujarat Titans even money. I think this one’s a little bit closer than that to be honest with you.Gujarat Titans came very, very close – one of the highest-scoring sides in the first round of fixtures – so I’m actually going to look at some other markets on this game.I’m diving into the team of top batsman and I’m going to side with the Gujarat Titans on this one at even money.The reason why I like this is in their last game, like I said, while they lost, they gave it a really good go and they lost by 11 runs. They notched 232 runs in that match, so they’re a high-scoring side.Both (Sai) Sudharsan and (Jos) Buttler scored over 50 in that game and they had a partnership of 84 runs so pretty easy going for T20.Interesting Jos Buttler as well. He had such a miserable time at the Champions Trophy. He stood down as England captain. But he’s got straight back at it with the Gujarat Titans.I think team top batsman, Gujarat Titans, even money is a shout.Jos Buttler will be in IPL actionCredit: AFPTHE LINCOLN – DONCASTER RACINGSam Rosbottom – Native Warrior – 15/2READ MORE SUN STORIESIt’s all eyes on Doncaster for the Lincoln. The first big flat race of the season. Twenty-two runners in this one so huge field, lots of horses to pick.Obviously each way could be a really good shout in this race as well, but one that I really like is Native Warrior at 15/2 and Betfair punters absolutely love this horse as well – best backed horse in the ante-post market leading up this one. More

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    I nearly quit football after mum died but fell in love with the game again in -5C Slovakian second tier, says Evanilson

    AS EVANILSON thawed his freezing hands in warm water in a small town in Slovakia, it hardly felt like a turning point in his career.Yet it was in the unlikely setting of second-tier club Samorin that the Brazilian teenager would rediscover his love of football after the death of his mother.Evanilson is enjoying life on the south coast with AFC BournemouthCredit: Robin Jones / AFC BournemouthThe striker is no stranger to the cold thanks to his time in the Slovakian second tierEvanilson spoke to SunSport’s Dan King about his journey to the Premier LeagueCredit: Robin Jones / AFC BournemouthAnd get back on the long and winding road that has led him to an FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester City on Sunday.Evanilson, 25, still vividly recalls the shock to the system of leaving Rio giants Fluminense and arriving for a loan spell at their partner club in central Europe in January 2018.The Cherries star told SunSport: “I left 40 degrees in Rio to go to minus-five. I had never seen snow before. It was very difficult to adapt.“The first time I trained I couldn’t finish the session because I was too cold. I didn’t understand the importance of wearing gloves, so when I finished I put my hands in hot water because they were almost frozen.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAlthough Evanilson’s extremities were numb, inside he was feeling intense grief for the death of his mother, Madalena.It had been hard enough to leave his home in the northern city of Fortaleza to join Fluminense’s academy when he was 13.The striker, whose full name is Francisco Evanilson de Lima Barbosa, said: “The north of Brazil is a very isolated place compared to the action of Rio and Sao Paulo. I didn’t want to go but my dad insisted.”Evanilson soon emerged as one of the club’s hottest talents. But after the sudden death of Madalena when he was 17, he had to be talked out of quitting football altogether.Most read in FootballEvanilson thought about hanging up his boots while at FluminenseCredit: GettyEvanilson opened up on navigating the loss of his mother MadelenaCredit: Robin Jones / AFC BournemouthHe said: “It affected me drastically. I was really close to my mum. I went back to Fortaleza and I didn’t want to go back to Rio and play.”Evanilson’s family and the club persuaded him to return — and then to move thousands of miles to Slovakia.Inside Man City’s £300MILLION new stadium upgrade with futuristic Etihad project to rival AnfieldHe said: “I didn’t want to go to Samorin initially because my friends that came back to Brazil from there didn’t say too many good things about it. But my manager at the time said, ‘Look, it will transform your life as a professional player’.“So then I thought the best solution was to go, after I got over the death of my mum.”It helped Evanilson that Gustavo Leal, his former coach with Fluminense’s Under-17 team, was at Samorin, too, along with other young on-loan players.Evanilson said: “There were three or four of us, so I wasn’t completely by myself. That was positive. Nobody could speak the language so we would stick together.Between 40 degrees and -5 is perfect.Evanilson“I lived with two of the players and I think that saved me. We would take it in turns to clean, cook, wash-up, we would eat Brazilian food every day.“It was a really rich experience for us all. I felt I really grew from there.“It defined me as a footballer. I fell in love with the game again.”Evanilson played just six times for Samorin, scoring three goals.But what he learnt about the very different style of football in Europe and the physical challenge of playing against grown men would stand him in good stead.On his return to Brazil, Evanilson scored 11 times as Fluminense won the U20 Rio state championship.Evanilson poses outside Bournemouth’s training facilityCredit: Robin Jones / AFC BournemouthArt attack-erBy Dan KingAS a young child, Evanilson was a  budding artist rather than a footballer.But the influence of dad Valdenir and Cristiano Ronaldo led him to express himself on the pitch as well as on paper.Evanilson said: “When I was young I preferred to paint and do other activities not to do with football.“My dad was involved with football in Fortaleza and  was pushing me.“Ronaldo became my main inspiration because of his work ethic and technical ability. I would watch him  on YouTube.”But mum Madalena still continued to encourage  his artistic flair.He said: “I still have the drawings I used to do for my mother.”Those sketches have been all the more precious to the 25-year-old  since mum Madalena died when he was 17.He also paid tribute to his wife Mariana for helping him through the trauma,  saying: “She is vital to the person I am today. It’s not a case of a WAG — we met when I was 15 and a nobody.“When my mother passed away, she embraced the situation, she made her house available so I could stay there. I appreciate she was there all the time.”Now Evanilson and Mariana are parents themselves to daughter Maria Alice.He said: “I do even more art now because of my daughter.“She inspires me to paint. I will look  at something, draw it and she will paint the drawing.”Evanilson celebrates his family with body art in the form of tattoos.On his right arm he marks three- year-old Maria Alice’s birth, while he remembers his late mother on his chest.He added: “Nobody dies if the person  is present in your heart — that’s what I have written there.”After one false start in the first team, he started to live up to his nickname of Levanilson, after one of his idols, Polish superstar Robert Lewandowski.So in 2020, when still only 20, Evanilson crossed the Atlantic again, this time to join Porto. He was following in the footsteps of another striker from Fortaleza, Mario Jardel, who scored 169 goals in 175 games in a trophy-laden spell with the Portugal giants.And another Brazil-born Porto legend, Pepe — then in his second spell at the club — took Evanilson under his wing.SunSport used the international sign language for Pepe — smashing a fist into your palm, elbowing, kicking — to suggest to Evanilson that it was hard to believe that the notorious hard-man defender was really a big softie.Evanilson laughed and said: “I was surprised, too! There is a side to him where he is kind and helpful but on the pitch it is a different story. “Pepe was the best person in terms of guiding me where I wanted to go.“He really embraced me and where I had come from because he was from Brazil as well.“It was good to have that year where I had to work really hard and Pepe guided me through it.”Evanilson fired Porto to the double in 2021-22 and was linked with a move to Manchester United.Evanilson joined Porto in 2020Credit: GettyFellow Brazil-born star Pepe took the striker under his wingCredit: GettyEvanilson admitted even he was surprised how soft notorious hard-man Pepe really wasCredit: Robin Jones / AFC BournemouthBut after enjoying the most prolific season of his career, with 25 goals in 2023-24, last  summer he became Bournemouth’s club record signing for an initial £31.5million.Why swap almost guaranteed Champions League football with Porto for a club that has never played in Europe?Evanilson said: “I always dreamed about playing in the Premier League.“I knew very little about Bournemouth but I’ve been so impressed since I arrived. The club gave me a really good presentation.“l had offers from other clubs but the offer from Bournemouth inspired me the most.“Even former team-mates at Porto are really impressed with the style of play. It suits me, that combination of the physicality and the high level of technique required.“My next goal is to play in Europe. I want to play for Bournemouth in the Champions League. I am very optimistic we can do that.”But the next challenge is to repeat November’s historic victory over City and earn an FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.The forecast for Sunday afternoon on the South Coast is sunshine and 15°C, so ideal  conditions for the boy from Brazil.Evanilson said: “Between 40 degrees and -5 is perfect. I’m not training with gloves because the temperature has risen.”But in the Slovakian snow Evanilson learnt about much more than appropriate clothing.READ MORE SUN STORIESEvanilson, a devout Catholic, said: “Nobody dies if the person is present in your heart.“That’s how I feel about it. I always pray to her. My mum is always present.”Evanilson became Bournemouth’s record signing in the summerCredit: Robin Jones / AFC BournemouthThe striker scored as Bournemouth beat Man City 2-1 in NovemberCredit: GettyEven help you PepBy Dan KingBRAZIL hotshot Evanilson wants to ruin Pep Guardiola’s season and “make history again”.Bournemouth host Manchester City in Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final after ending the champions’ 32-match unbeaten Prem run in November.The Cup is now Guardiola’s only hope of a trophy this season.But Cherries striker Evanilson, who scored in the 2-1 Vitality Stadium triumph, told SunSport: “We really showed who we are and that has inspired us to go  for a good result on Sunday.“If we work hard, we can beat them and make history again.”That win was Bournemouth’s first victory over City at the 22nd attempt. Now the Cherries are aiming to reach the FA Cup semis for the first time in their history.Evanilson, 25, added: “The November game was an amazing day for me — but it  was more important for the club in breaking City’s unbeaten run.”Evanilson made his name at Fluminense, who play their home games at the legendary Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.Now he has his sights set on helping the Cherries earn a semi-final next month at another world-famous venue in Wembley.Evanilson explained: “When I was a boy in Rio, my dream was to play in the Maracana. It always inspired me.“That dream came true and now I hope I can replicate that at Wembley. I know how important that stadium is for every player.” More

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    Bournemouth vs Man City prediction: Free betting tips, odds and FA Cup preview

    MANCHESTER CITY return to FA Cup action this weekend with a difficult tie at Bournemouth in the quarter finals.It’s City’s last chance of silverware this season but they head to a Cherries side only four points behind them in the league table at this stage.SunSport have enlisted the help of their betting experts to preview the cup tie and select the best bets, tips and exclusive sign-up bonuses from our leading betting partners.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereNew sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesBournemouth vs Man City previewIt’s a big competition now for Manchester City as the FA Cup is their last remaining opportunity for silverware this season.That seems mad to say for a side that has dominated English football in recent seasons.But it’s all eggs into this basket as they try to win this competition and remain in a battle for the top four.It’s also not going to be easy against a Bournemouth side who are only four points behind them in the table and who BEAT them in their last game on the south coast.The Cherries hit a bit of a bump in the road before the international break though with three defeats in their last five games and drawing the other two – though one was in the previous round of this tournament where they won on penalties.Both teams have scored in three of the last four games at the Vitality and this one should be entertaining once again.First scorer and correct score predictionsCorrect score: 2-2 at 9/1 with Betfred – HEREFirst scorer: Omar Marmoush 5/1 with talkSPORT BET – HEREBournemouth vs Man City latest oddsBournemouth at 19/10 with William Hill – CLAIM HEREOdds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.How to claim..William Hill £60 welcome bonusVisit the William Hill website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: T60Once your account is registered, click ‘opt in’ on the ‘Vegas Promotion’ pageDeposit a minimum of £10 in your main account to receive a £20 Vegas Bonus for use on Selected GamesThen place a bet with a minimum stake of £10 at odds of 1/2 or greater on any football marketOnce that’s settled, your account will be credited with £40 in free betsWilliam Hill: Claim £60 welcome bonus – click here*Bournemouth vs Man City predictions and tipsJustin timeJustin Kluivert played over 70 minutes in both of the Netherlands’ games with Spain in the break.It was a reward for what has been a top season with Bournemouth with 12 goals and six assists in his 28 league appearances.Penalty taker too so when it comes to scoring goals, he’s always worth one to keep an eye on. Bournemouth will most likely score.Both halvesNot only am I backing Bournemouth to score, I’m backing them to do so at least twice.That break might’ve come at the right time for them and just as they did against City last time out, they can notch either side of the interval.Bournemouth to score in both halves at 2/1 – CLAIM HERE*William Hill. 18+. Play Safe. New players only, using promo code T60. Valid from 13/04/2022. Online play. Get £60 Bonus split between Vegas & Sports in the following manner – (i) Deposit £10 to unlock £20 Vegas Free Bet on Selected Games (72hr expiry, wagering reqs apply); then (ii) bet £10+ (odds 1/2+) with cash (excl. £10 deposit) or Vegas winnings (after wager reqs met). Once settled, receive £40 Sports Free Bets excluding Virtual Markets (4x £10, 7 days expiry). Payment methods & country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply.*Betfred. New customers only. 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Only valid with code B10G40 on registration. £10 min qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater across sports or racing (if EW then min £10 Win + £10 Place). Receive £20 Tote Credit, £10 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza within 48 hours of qualifying bet settlement. 7-day expiry on free bets & Tote Credit. Your first bet will be your qualifying bet. One per customer. UK & ROI customers only. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. Gambleaware.org. Full T&Cs apply.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – GambleAware.orgRead our guide on responsible gambling practices.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More