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      Major change to FA Cup confirmed with Arsenal vs Man Utd clash to look very different from Premier League

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      THE FA Cup will not use VAR until the fifth round this season.In previous campaigns since 2019, all FA Cup matches played at Premier League stadiums have utilised VAR.The tie between Arsenal and Man Utd will be played without VARCredit: GettyIn a major change to this season’s competition, however, technology will only come into play from the fifth round onwards.Should non-Premier League sides remain at that stage, and be drawn at home, VAR will be deployed at their venue.The significant change has been made to ensure consistency across rounds.An FA statement read: “Video Assistant Referees (VAR) will only be used in the 2024-25 Emirates FA Cup from the Fifth Round onwards.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It has been agreed that VAR will be utilised for every match in the Fifth Round of the competition through to the Final at Wembley Stadium, and will not be in operation for the Third and Fourth Rounds.”VAR has only been used in the Emirates FA Cup previously for matches at Wembley Stadium and at Premier League grounds due to the infrastructure, workforce and costs that are required for its operation.”This decision ensures that there is a consistent refereeing approach for all clubs taking part in the same stage of the competition.”Several Premier League sides have been drawn at home and would have had VAR for their third round ties in previous seasons.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSToday’s news means that Arsenal’s clash with Manchester United will now be played without VAR.Other Premier League sides drawn at home include Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City.Ruben Amorim on shock Rashford, Garnacho exclusionsVAR was first trialled in the FA Cup during the 2017-18 season.In 2022, the FA were forced to defend the use of VAR in some FA Cup ties and not in others, after just nine of 32 third round ties used the technology. More

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      Man City fan dies after medical emergency during Man Utd derby as tributes pour in

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      MANCHESTER CITY have confirmed that one of their supporters died during yesterday’s match against Manchester United.City confirmed the tragic news on social media, while sending wishes to the supporter’s friends and family.Manchester City have confirmed the tragic newsCredit: RexA short statement posted on X read: “Manchester City are aware of the tragic news that one of our supporters passed away following a medical incident at yesterday’s match.”The thoughts of everyone at the Club are with their family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”Several supporters responded to the post with well wishes of their own.One wrote: “I’m sending my condolences to the supporter’s family.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile a second commented: “Rest in peace… God’s comfort to his family and friends.”A third added: “My thought and prayers are with the family.”City lost the match 2-1 despite leading for much of it.Josko Gvardiol’s 36th minute header had looked like being the winner.Most read in FootballBruno Fernandes equalised for United from the penalty spot on 88 minutes, after Amad Diallo had been brought down in the box by Matheus Nunes.Diallo then scored a 90th minute winner. More

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      Painful moment Aaron Ramsdale analyses Southampton’s 5-0 collapse to Tottenham live on TV as fans slam ‘laughing stock’

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      SOUTHAMPTON fans have been left baffled after Aaron Ramsdale was allowed to appear on live TV for TNT Sports as an analyst for their thrashing against Tottenham.Ramsdale, 26, has been out since November with a finger injury.Aaron Ramsdale appeared as a pundit on TNT Sports for Southampton’s game vs TottenhamCredit: TNT SPORTSBut fans blasted his appearance as Russell Martin’s side was hit for five in the first halfCredit: RexSaints have picked up just one point since Ramsdale got injured in late NovemberCredit: ReutersBut the goalkeeper appeared as a pundit on TNT Sports during their coverage of the Saints’ clash with Spurs on Sunday evening, won 5-0 by the visitors.And after watching his team-mates get thrashed at home, with the result leading to the sacking of Russell Martin, Ramsdale gave his thoughts on the display.He said: “It was a tough one to watch and it must have been much harder to play. “After the work you put in, to go behind that quickly and be 5-0 down at half-time, I can’t imagine the feeling playing that second half.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”As much as Tottenham controlled and took their foot off the gas, credit to the boys, they didn’t stop running, the fans got onside and gave them a bit of a boost, but I think there will be some more words said from management and players over the next coming days.”Asked for specifics about those chats, Ramsdale was seen rubbing his eyes with his hands before adding: “Not a nice one (the chat).”I think there’ll be some home truths especially when you can see it on the big screen…”After being 5-0 at half-time I’m not too sure how the gaffer will go about it. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”We’ll dissect the goals, we might try and spin it into positive ways because we have a game on Wednesday so close to show what we can do when we get it right.”We have to forget about it quickly which is easier said than done. It’ll be a really tough one for the boys tonight and we just have to go again so we can try and get to the semi-final of a Cup on Wednesday.”Disgusted Southampton fans stream out of St Mary’s 27 minutes into Tottenham clash after going 4-0 downReacting to Ramsdale’s punditry, fans were left stunned that he was even allowed to do the interview and appear on TNT.One fan on social media said: “I’m utterly baffled by how this has been allowed to happen.”A second said: “It’s an absolute shambles, it really is. I don’t see how this possibly could have been beneficial in any way even if we won today.”A third added: “We’re such a joke right now.”Another said: “Gotta feel for him that’s the current state of our club that they would green light this.”A fifth said: “Like what’s he meant to say? Just adds to the laughing stock we already are!”The Saints host Premier League leaders Liverpool in a Carabao Cup quarter-final clash, before visiting Fulham in the league on Sunday.Ex-Arsenal star Ramsdale was hopeful of returning to the team in the coming days, with the South Coast side only picking up one point since the goalkeeper’s injury.On his return, he said: “The finger is getting more bendy, it’s getting there. It was too soon (for me to be back) for this game.“I’m looking forward to next week. We have two games that I’m hoping to be involved in. It’s about making sure it’s fixed properly.“Making sure it doesn’t get injured again is the main priority. I missed out on the first two camps, I was desperate to get back in.“It’s been very tough watching the boys. Coming down here to try and impact things on the pitch, it’s been tough.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’ve been able to train with the boys, using my feet. I’ve been on the grass. But my job is as a goalkeeper.”Southampton are rooted to the bottom of the table and are already nine points off of safety. More

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      Man Utd and City Wags forget rivalry as they gorge on caviar in posh London restaurant during ‘girlie Christmas trip’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED and City Wags linked up for a “girlie Christmas trip” to London over the weekend.While the two sides did battle at the Etihad on Sunday, Wags from both teams showed that there can be friendships across the divide.Sasha, second from the right, posed a snap outside Scotts alongside Anouska Santos, left, Megan Pickford, second from left, and Fern Maguire, rightCredit: Instagram @sasha__rebeccaSasha also posted a snap of herselfCredit: Instagram @sasha__rebeccaThe group went to the theatre over the weekendCredit: Instagram @sasha__rebeccaSasha beamed for pictures posted to InstagramCredit: Instagram @sasha__rebeccaJack Grealish’s partner Sasha Attwood has shared a series of snaps to Instagram from her weekend down south.She captioned the post: “A girlie Christmas trip.”In one picture she beamed as she posed alongside Luke Shaw’s partner Anouska Santos, Jordan Pickford’s wife Megan and Harry Maguire’s spouse Fern.The happy group posed for their picture outside upmarket Mayfair restaurant Scotts.READ MORE ON WAGSSasha also shared a snap of her oscietra caviar, which costs £500 for 125g at Scotts.While she also uploaded some pictures of herself, as well as a video clip from the ballet.Megan and Fern both commented “Love you” on Sasha’s post, which has received over 7,000 likes.On the pitch, Man Utd produced a late comeback to beat City 2-1.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSasha also posted a mirror selfieCredit: Instagram @sasha__rebeccaWhile she also shared a picture of her caviar dishCredit: Instagram @sasha__rebeccaGrealish replaced Jeremy Doku in the 77th minute of the match.While Maguire started and played the full 90 minutes for United.Jack Grealish’s pregnant girlfriend Sasha Attwood shows off her growing baby bump as she poses in bikini topShaw, meanwhile, is sidelined by an injury and did not play.Pickford kept a clean sheet on Saturday as Everton drew 0-0 at Arsenal.In October, Sasha and Grealish welcomed their first child together.The couple announced the birth of baby Mila while Jack was on England duty.Jack Grealish and Sasha are childhood sweethearts and welcomed their first child earlier this yearCredit: AFP More

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      Piers Morgan lays into ‘absolutely pathetic’ Kyle Walker as he joins Roy Keane in slamming his ’embarrassing’ dive

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      PIERS MORGAN slammed Kyle Walker for his “pathetic” dive in the Manchester derby on Sunday.Walker dropped to the ground holding his face after clashing with Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund late in the first half.Rasmus Hojlund and Kyle Walker clashed during the Manchester DerbyCredit: ReutersWalker dramatically fell to the floorCredit: GettyPiers Morgan slammed the full-back’s dive as ‘pathetic’Credit: GettyThe two went head-to-head before the Manchester City full-back dramatically fell down despite minimal contact or force.They were both shown a yellow card as a result.Fans and pundits slammed Walker for his theatrics at half-time.United legend Roy Keane even admitted he was “embarrassed” for the England star.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpeaking on Sky Sports, the ex-midfielder said: “You don’t mind a bit of this, this is going to happen in the game. A bit of argy-bargy, of course.”But I look at it, he’s obviously been blocked but Walker, of course it’s a foul and a free-kick and Hojlund’s not happy, that’s fine.”And he goes over, how can Walker… Walker must be embarrassed. He must be embarrassed to go down like that.”An experienced player, listen there is no contact. Look at this, I don’t know the guy and I’m embarrassed for him. It’s embarrassing.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSunSport columnist Morgan echoed Keane’s words on social media the following day.He wrote: “Well said, Mr Keane. Absolutely pathetic from Walker.”‘We played like under-15s,’ fumes Bernardo Silva as angry Man City ace admits ‘we deserved’ Man Utd loss Man City went on to lose 2-1 to their local rivals – despite leading for the majority of the match.With the hosts 1-0 up as late as the 87th minute courtesy of Josko Gvardiol’s first-half strike, Matheus Nunes gave away a penalty for a clumsy challenge on Amad Diallo.Bruno Fernandes converted the spot-kick to equalise, leaving Pep Guardiola furious.And just two minutes later, Amad broke through again, this time poking the ball over Ederson before slotting it into the bottom-right corner.Hojlund trolled Walker with a savage Instagram post after the match.It read: “Manchester is red. Violets are blue. What a brilliant performance. But the Oscar goes to…”Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s best performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez’ pass, he then clipped the ball past Ederson and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on in a deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zirkzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game. 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      Man Utd fans brilliantly hijack BBC’s player of the match vote to crown unexpected winner after win over Man City

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans hilariously voted Matheus Nunes as man of the match after his derby horror show.The City midfielder started at left-back for Pep Guardiola’s side and had a disastrous end to the game.Matheus Nunes fouled Amad Diallo to give away the penalty that sparked United’s comebackCredit: PANunes failed to get back on the line in time to clear Amad’s winnerCredit: GettyHe was consoled by Pep Guardiola at full-timeCredit: GettyMatheus Nunes was hilariously voted player of the matchCredit: BBCWith the champions 1-0 up, Nunes played a shocking back-pass to Ederson, which was intercepted by Amad Diallo.The Portuguese star sprinted back but ended up wiping out United’s derby hero to give the penalty that Bruno Fernandes converted.And then for Amad’s 90th minute winner, Nunes was inches away from getting to the ball in time to clear it off the line but just fell short.The BBC had a player ratings vote on their website, only for United fans to brilliantly hijack it.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTo add insult to injury, Nunes was named player of the match with a score of 9.21.All of his City team-mates scored under 5/10.Nunes even rated higher than Amad, who got an 8.25.It was mistakes from the likes of Nunes that annoyed Bernardo Silva and he raged post-match as City’s nightmare run continued to one win in their last 11 games. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe said: “We deserved what happened. “At this level, a game or two is unlucky. We can’t say this is lucky or unlucky — 10 games it’s not about that.’We played like under-15s,’ fumes Bernardo Silva as angry Man City ace admits ‘we deserved’ Man Utd loss “Minute 87 in a derby, winning 1-0 and our corner ends in a penalty for them, if we make these stupid decisions with three or four minutes to go you deserve to pay for that.”Looking at the game I think there was only one team that could win the game, but at the end we lost. “It’s not one game, it’s a lot of games lately.”We have to look at ourselves. You can say ‘oh that’s a bit unlucky’, no. It’s the decisions you make. “Today in the last minute we played like Under-15s.”Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s best performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez’ pass, he then clipped the ball past Ederson and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on in a deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zirkzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game. 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      Brazil legend Adriano breaks down in tears during farewell match after late dad ‘sends message’ using AI

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      BRAZIL legend Adriano broke down in tears during his farewell match.The striker featured for both sides as his former club Flamengo Legends took on a team called Friends of Italy.Adriano broke down in tears during his farewell matchCredit: SPORTVA video of his late father was played with AI used to recreate his voiceCredit: SPORTVAdriano played for both teams during an emotional farewellCredit: AFPHe also played alongside his son AdrianinhoCredit: AFPThe striker said goodbye to around 21,000 fans inside the MaracanaCredit: APAdriano, 42, scored for both sides in a 4-3 win for Flamengo in front of adoring fans at the Maracana.After 30 minutes played the game was paused and Adriano was honoured on the big screen as he watched a video of his late father, who passed away in 2004.His father’s voice was recreated using AI, and the message for Adriano sparked tears from the 48-cap star.Adriano was joined in his farewell game by former Brazil team-mates Romario, Dida and Ze Roberto, as well as his son Adrianinho.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAround 21,000 turned up to pay tribute to Adriano and unveiled a banner of his face ahead of kick-off.His grandmother and mother were also present with the former even kicking off the match.Adriano retired from playing in 2016 after spells at Inter Milan, Parma and Flamengo and has lived a flamboyant lifestyle since hanging up his boots, including partying on a yacht and being crowned an emperor during carnival.Reflecting on his decision to arrange a final game, Adriano stated: “Many people asked me to say goodbye.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Although I stopped playing a few years ago, I needed this match to end my cycle.”I owed it to everyone who supported me and still supports me.”Brazil cult hero is paraded through streets of Sao Paulo as an ’emperor’ during wild carnival More

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      Fifa ‘sincerely regret’ the ‘unacceptable’ error made in World Cup qualifying draw as they release full statement

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      FIFA chiefs have issued a grovelling apology to the Ukrainian FA for an “unacceptable” error they “sincerely regret” during the World Cup qualifying draw.The Eastern European country ended up in Group D alongside Iceland, Azerbaijan and either France or Croatia.Fifa have apologised for a mistake regarding Ukraine during the World Cup qualifying drawCredit: X @KarpatyLvivFCUkraine was illegally invaded by Russia in 2022Credit: GettyBut there was a controversial moment during the draw when Fifa attempted to depict countries which could not cross borders to face each other.Spain vs Gibraltar was cited as one example, with Kosovo versus either Serbia or Bosnia & Herzegovina another.A map with shaded areas revealed which nations fell into the category.But Ukrainian chiefs were left outraged when their country was flagged for any potential clash with Belarus.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe dark patch showed Ukraine without the territory of Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014.The Black Sea peninsula is still officially classed as an administrative division of Ukraine.But Russia now occupies Crimea and has several military air bases stationed there following 2022’s illegal invasion of the mainland.Ukraine’s FA wrote a furious letter to Fifa expressing their anger over the map.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd football’s governing body have now responded, expressing their “sincere regret” over the decision.Elkhan Mammadov, Chief Member Association Officer, said: “We acknowledge receipt of your letter and would like to thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.England manager Thomas Tuchel reacts to Three Lions’ World Cup 2026 qualifying drawWorld Cup qualifying draw in fullGroup A: Winner GER/ITA, Slovakia, Northern Ireland, LuxembourgGroup B: Switzerland, Sweden, Slovenia, KosovoGroup C: Loser POR/DEN, Greece, Scotland, BelarusGroup D: Winner FRA/CRO, Ukraine, Iceland, AzerbaijanGroup E: Winner SPA/NED, Turkey, Georgia, BulgariaGroup F: Winner POR/DEN, Hungary, Ireland, ArmeniaGroup G: Loser SPA/NED, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, MaltaGroup H: Austria, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, San MarinoGroup I: Loser GER/ITA, Norway, Israel, Estonia, MoldovaGroup J: Belgium, Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, LiechensteinGroup K: England, Serbia, Albania, Latvia, AndorraGroup L: Loser FRA/CRO, Czechia, Montenegro, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar“We deeply respect the concerns raised and the sensitivity of the issue at hand.“The infographic in question was developed by an external third-party service provider.“Upon recognising the issue, we have taken immediate steps to address the situation, including working to have the image removed from circulation.“Additionally, we are conducting an internal review to ensure such oversights do not recur in the future.“We fully understand the delicate sensitivity of this matter and while the incident was unintentional, we sincerely regret any concern it may have caused and appreciate your understand as we work to address this situation responsibly.”The Ukrainian FA’s initial letter had stated: “We are writing to express our deep concern regarding the infographic map of Europe shown during the TV broadcast of the European Qualifiers draw for the Fifa World Cup 2026 on December 13, 2024.”The map, which indicated the countries unable to cross borders, highlighted the territory of Ukraine without the Autonomous Republic of Crimea.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Considering several official decisions and resolutions passed by the Fifa Council and the Uefa Executive Committee since 2014, which addressed the territorial integrity of Ukraine and the protection of football stakeholders in our country from the aggressive policies of the Russian terrorist state, including regarding the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, we emphasise that the version of the map presented by Fifa during the global broadcast to a multi-million audience is unacceptable.”It appears as an inconsistent stance by Fifa and Uefa on this crucial issue, especially in light of the ongoing destructive invasion initiated by Russia against Ukraine in the 21st century, in the heart of Europe.”Russia’s invasion of Ukraine timelineVLADIMIR Putin waged a murderous invasion on his neighbouring country in 2022, following years of heated Russo-Ukrainian tensions.24 February 2022: Russia launches a full-scale invasion of Ukraine with an invasion of the eastern territory of Donbas. Explosions were also reported in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa25 February 2022: Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky and his team posted a video following rumours they had fled the country.16 March 2022: Russia blitzed Mariupol’s Drama Theater where around 1,300 civilians were sheltering.1 September 2022: Russian forces flee the eastern Kharkiv region following a strong Ukrainian counteroffensive.21 September 2022: Putin announced a controversial partial mobilization to draft soldiers, the country’s first since World War Two.12 November 2022: The city of Kherson, in the south of Ukraine, was liberated after an eight-month occupation.21 December 2022: Zelensky travels to Washington D.C. to meet President Joe Biden and address Congress.25 January 2023: Germany approves sending tanks to Ukraine20 February 2023: US President Joe Biden makes a surprise visit to Kyiv for the first time since the invasion began.23 June 2023: Russian mercenaries stage a mutiny attempt with the paramilitary organization Wagner.24 June 2023: The shortlived Wagner Group march to Moscow and the coup attempt ends.27 August 2023: Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was confirmed dead in a plane crash.8 February 2024: Zelensky replaces his top army leader Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi.20 April 2024: US House of Representatives approves a huge foreign aid package for Ukraine.6 August 2024: Ukrainian forces launched a surprise incursion into Russia’s western Kursk region.19 November 2024: Ukraine fires several long-range US-supplied missiles into Russia for the first time.21 November 2024: Putin’s forces fire new ballistic missiles into Ukraine for the first time. More