More stories

  • in

    Heartbreaking moment Champions League debutant, 16, has record-breaking goal ruled out minutes into first game

    A TEENAGE sensation heartbreakingly had a record-breaking debut Champions League goal ruled out just minutes into his first game.Francesco Camarda took to the field during AC Milan’s 3-1 win over Club Brugge.Francesco Camarda thought he had become the Champions League’s youngest goalscorerCredit: GettyHis AC Milan team-mates lifted him up highCredit: GettyThe joy was ripped away when VAR showed he was offsideCredit: GettyAged just 16 years and 226 days, the youngster replaced Alvaro Morata up front for the Italian giants at the San Siro for the final quarter of an hour.In doing so, he became the youngest Italian and youngest AC Milan player in Champions League history – and just seventh overall. And he thought his dream debut had turned into real-life fantasy just 12 minutes after taking to the field. That is because ‘next Erling Haaland’ Camarda lost his marker in the middle of the area and headed a cross beyond Simon Mignolet.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe teenager immediately sprinted away in celebration, ripping off his shirt and then sliding on his knees on the famous San Siro pitch.The adoring crowd went wild, thinking one of their own had become the Champions League’s youngest scorer ever – eclipsing Ansu Fati’s record of 17 years and 40 days. Camarda – a transfer target for Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham – was even hoisted up by his jubilant team-mates as he beat his chest for the fans.However, his moment of sheer delight was ripped away from him in devastating fashion.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBecause the semi-automated offside technology showed the striker had drifted just off – and therefore the goal was chalked off.To make matters worse, Camarda got dealt with a double-whammy because it appears he received a yellow card for his topless celebration.How Liverpool outsmarted Chelsea with Slot’s genius ‘traffic jam’ trick and Curtis Jones masterclassCamarda came to fans’ attention a few years ago with his outrageous numbers in the AC Milan academy.He scored a whopping 247 goals in 40 games in 2017-18, 172 in 31 in 2018-19 and 64 in 16 games in 2019-20.That totalled 483 goals in 87 matches – at an average of 5.5 per game. AC Milan had to get special permission from the Italian Football Federation to select him in the squad for a Serie A game last November when he was still only 15.And he made his first-team bow as the league’s youngest debutant aged 15 years and 260 days. While Mignolet got a reprieve for the Camarda header, he was not so fortunate for his howler in the first half.Christian Pulisic scored directly from a corner as the ball evaded everyone – including the former Liverpool goalkeeper who flapped as the ball flew past him.Camarda came on for Alvaro Morata on 75 minutesCredit: GettyCamarda slid on his knees after taking his shirt offCredit: GettyCamarda’s pals mobbed him after the goalCredit: EPAThe referee signalled the goal could not standCredit: X @footballontntThe youngster was booked for taking his shirt offCredit: GettyChristian Pulisic consoled the teenCredit: RexMilan manager Paulo Fonseca also tried to comfort his young sensationCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Jude Bellingham has last laugh after another Englishman threatened to upstage Real Madrid star at Bernabeu

    VINICIUS JR produced a magical hat-trick after another Englishman threatened to upstage Jude Bellingham at Real Madrid.The holders produced a stunning comeback from 2-0 at half time to win 5-2 against the team they beat in last season’s final.Jude Bellingham missed two sitters for Real MadridCredit: GettyReal Madrid completed an incredible comebackCredit: GettyVinicius Junior scored a hat-trickCredit: APDortmund’s revenge mission looked to be on course when they silenced the Bernabeu on the half hour mark.Some great hustling to win the ball back from Julian Brandt led to Serhou Guirassy laying it off for Donyell Malen to finish past Thibaut Courtois.Madrid were in shock – and they were well and truly on the ropes just four minutes later.Dortmund broke furiously as Dutchman Malen raced and jinked to the byline.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe slid the ball right across the face of the goal and England U21 star Gittens, who moved to Germany from Manchester City’s academy in 2020, arrived at the perfect time unmarked to knock it home on the stretch.Bellingham was furious but his compatriot was on cloud nine as, at 20 Years and 75 days, youngest Englishmen ever to score vs Real Madrid in the Champions League.Bellingham was even angrier when he blew the opportunity to land an instant response by hedging straight at the keeper.Brandt was denied a third by a flying save from Courtois and it proved a key moment as Real exploded into life after the break.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRodrygo and Bellingham were both denied by the woodwork but it was the decision by Dortmund boss Nuri Sahin to replace winger Gittens in a defensive move that ultimately cost them.Antonio Rudiger got Madrid back in business with a header and Vinicius Junior slotted home two minutes later to level.Courtois made a great save to stop Maximilian Beier as the game entered the last ten and within seconds his team had completed the turnaround up the other end.Mbappe’s deflected pass fell for Lucas Vazquez to run on to and lash home.Bellingham then had the last laugh as his brilliant tackle won back the ball before Vinicius made it four.And the electric Brazilian then claimed the matchball with the final kick.The hat-trick hero declared after his magical run and finish for the third: “I want to stay here forever. I love Real Madrid.“We want to win the Champions League again.”While manager Carlo Ancelotti added: “I think Vinicius will win the Ballon D’Or but not because of what he did tonight. He helped us win the Champions League last season. These goals are for the next Ballon D’Or.”READ MORE SUN STORIESMonaco thrashed Red Star Belgrade 5-1 while AC Milan enjoyed a 3-1 triumph over Club Brugge.Girona were 2-0 victors over Slovan Bratislava, Juventus drew 0-0 with Stuttgart, PSG and PSV drew 1-1, while Sporting won 2-0 at Sturm Graz.Jamie Bynoe-Gittens scored for Borussia DortmundCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Fans yell ‘it’s a culinary crime’ as Kyle Walker reveals the same meal he eats before every match after changing routine

    KYLE WALKER has lifted the lid on his surprise pre-match routine.The Manchester City and England star revealed he eats the same meal before every game.Kyle Walker has shared the weird twist he makes to spaghetti bologneseCredit: GettyWalker revealed his new pre-match mealCredit: BBCWith a ‘culinary crime’ of an ingredientCredit: BBCWalker loves to tuck into spaghetti bolognese on the eve of a huge clash.But he makes a surprise twist to the classic dish, telling his podcast: “Spaghetti bolognese with mushrooms and pesto. Try it, game changer.”Fans have questioned the six-time Premier League’s taste-buds, with one saying: “Italy is screaming.”Another added: “That is a culinary crime against Italian culture.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWalker also revealed that his habits have switched down the years, explaining: “My routine changed when I was younger. I would eat loads on the night before the game then loads the day of the game.”I thought that is going to see me through the game. “But you get to know that the meal you are eating on the day of the game is nothing. “It is just to make you feel good because it cannot turn into energy quick enough.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”So now I just have a bowl of rice pudding or something like that.”Walker also told fans that Harry Maguire’s go-to meal is lasagne and the Manchester United star accompanies it with plenty of side salad that he “drowns in vinegar”.Kyle Walker’s wife Annie Kilner files for divorce and gears up to fight for star’s £27m fortune More

  • in

    Arsenal ‘battling Chelsea and Barcelona for shock Jhon Duran transfer’ with ’40 clubs’ chasing £75million striker

    ASTON VILLA striker Jhon Duran is reportedly attracting interest from some of Europe’s top clubs.The 20-year-old has enjoyed a stellar campaign so far at Villa Park.Arsenal and Barcelona are among the clubs interested in Jhon DuranCredit: GettyAston Villa want £75m for the strikerCredit: GettyIn 11 appearances so far this season, Duran has scored six goals – one of which fired Villa to a huge Champions League win over Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich.He is now one of the most sought-after young players in Europe.According to AS Colombia, Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea are among FORTY clubs interested in signing the forward.But he will not be allowed to leave Aston Villa for anything less than £75million.Read More in FootballDuran, who joined Unai Emery’s side from Chicago Fire in January 2023, is under contract at Villa Park until June 2030 having penned a new deal earlier this month.Villa striker Ollie Watkins has also been linked with a move to Arsenal in the past.The Gunners are understood to be in the market for a new striker amid doubts surrounding the future of Gabriel Jesus.They held a strong interest in RB Leipzig frontman Benjamin Sesko in the early stages of the summer transfer window.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHowever, he instead signed a contract extension with the German side.Alexander Isak, Dusan Vlahovic, Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres have also been linked.Did officials cheat Arsenal with dramatic Man City winner and Saliba red card? More

  • in

    West Ham blow as Mohammed Kudus facing extended ban after red card following moment of madness in Tottenham clash

    NICLAS FULLKRUG has travelled to Germany in a bid to end his injury troubles as West Ham face losing Mohammed Kudus to an extended ban.German striker Fullkrug is yet to start a Premier League game or score for West Ham following his £27.5million move from Borussia Dortmund.Mohammed Kudus could face an extended ban as a result of his outburst against Tottenham at the weekendCredit: RexKudus was shown a straight red against SpursCredit: PANiclas Fullkrug is now in a race to return from injuryCredit: GettyThe 31-year-old has been sidelined since the September international break with a calf injury – which was initially expected to see him out for just three weeks.But complications have continued and this week the Germany international has returned to his home country for injections to try and speed up his return.While Sunday’s visit of Manchester United is expected to come too soon, Hammers boss Julen Lopetegui will want his summer signing back quickly following Kudus’ suspension.The Ghana winger was sent off late in West Ham’s 4-1 defeat to Tottenham on Sunday and is now facing an extended ban on top of his initial three-match suspension.Read More in FootballKudus, along with both West Ham and Spurs, has been charged by the FA following the melee he sparked which left three opponents on the floor.All three parties have until Thursday to respond.After kicking out at and hitting Micky van de Ven in the face, Kudus knocked Richarlison down and shoved midfielder Pape Matar Sarr.In a statement, The FA said: “Tottenham Hotspur allegedly failed to ensure that their players didn’t behave in an improper and/or provocative way around the 82nd minute.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”West Ham United allegedly failed to ensure that their players didn’t behave in an improper and/or provocative and/or violent way at the same time.”Mohammed Kudus allegedly acted in an improper manner and/or used violent conduct after the offence that he was sent off for.”Did officials cheat Arsenal with dramatic Man City winner and Saliba red card?Speaking after the game, boss Lopetegui said: “It’s not good for him, it’s not good for the club, for the team.”West Ham will already be without the winger, who had two goals in two games before his red card, for matches against Manchester United, Nottingham Forest and Everton. More

  • in

    Former Chelsea star Christian Pulisic scores directly from a corner as forgotten Premier League keeper suffers howler

    CHRISTIAN PULISIC scored directly from a corner – as another forgotten Premier League player suffered a howler in goal.Pulisic, 26, is now playing his football with AC Milan.Christian Pulisic scored directly from a cornerCredit: X @@footballontntThe ball ended up in the back of the netCredit: ReutersSimon Mignolet was the goalkeeper who dropped the clangerCredit: X @@footballontntAnd he broke the deadlock in their Champions League clash with Club Brugge at the San Siro in unusual fashion.Pulisic trotted over to take an inswinging corner from the left with 34 minutes on the clock.But rather than deliver a cross for his team-mates to get on the end of, the American’s whipped centre headed straight for goal.And it ended up in the back of the net in bizarre scenes – thanks in part to a Simon Mignolet blunder.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLPulisic and Mignolet have a combined 243 Premier League appearances – 20 goals in 98 games for Pulisic and 80 clean sheets in 245 appearances for Mignolet. The ex-Liverpool and Sunderland goalkeeper somehow allowed the ball to squeeze in.Former Chelsea winger Pulisic lapped up the adulation of his fellow stars and fans as replays showed Mignolet’s nightmare.The goalkeeper got caught out and was likely expecting a touch from an attacker.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut it did not arrive and the Belgian ended up diving helplessly to the floor as the ball flew past.Defender Maxim De Cuyper tried his best to clear the ball off the line but got himself in a muddle, too.Ex-Chelsea star Christian Pulisic agrees to do ‘unbelievable’ lewd celebration if he scores against Man CityThings went from bad to worse for Club Brugge just six minutes later.That is because Raphael Onyedika saw red after a lengthy VAR check.The Nigerian midfielder caught Tijjani Reijnders high on the ankle in the challenge – but looked shocked to be sent for an early bath.There was no touch from an attacker on the way inCredit: GettyMaxim De Cuyper could not clear the ball off the lineCredit: X @@footballontntPulisic celebrated as Mignolet ended up in the netCredit: X @@footballontntPulisic could not believe his luckCredit: GettyOwen Hargreaves Season PredictionsHARGREAVES ON BELLINGHAM“I SAW the Super Cup and Jude Bellingham played the best game of his life.“He’s playing a bit more in his natural position, a little bit deeper. He’s the perfect midfield player.“Jude is just going to get better and better with Kylian Mbappe and Endrick.“I know a lot of people have not seen much of Endrick but to go with him and Rodrygo, Valverde, Modric, Courtois and Alaba, Rudiger, Carvajal . . .“That is some collection of players, it’s amazing.”HARGREAVES ON CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DARK HORSES“PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN, just in the way Luis Enrique plays. He plays such aggressive football and they’ve got so many really good ball players.“I’m happy to see they’re focused on young French players. That’s probably what they should have done long ago.“Inter are really good. They’ve got a clear identity to how they play under Simone Inzaghi.“Marcus Thuram came on a free, it’s amazing no one else picked him up.“They’re not the most offensive team but often those teams do really well in the Champions League.“They don’t make mistakes in silly moments.”HARGREAVES ON PREM CONTENDERS“MANCHESTER CITY have the best squad and they’re using four centre-backs so defensively they’re a bit more stable.“Arsenal need a little bit more experience in the Champions League. “To win the Champions League might take a little bit more time in the transfer windows. But they’re going to win trophies, it’s a question of when.“Liverpool have crazy firepower. Federico Chiesa is an amazing player and he’ll suit the Premier League because he’s crazy explosive.“I’m excited for Aston Villa as Villa Park is going to be one of the best atmospheres in Europe this season.”HARGREAVES ON PLAYERS TO WATCH OUT FOR“MICHAEL OLISE is going to be great at Bayern Munich.“Playing at Crystal Palace he probably didn’t get the notoriety he deserved but he’s such a good finisher and technically really good.“Endrick at Real Madrid is cool because people don’t know a lot about him. He’s still so young but he’s just got it.“Florian Wirtz at Bayer Leverkusen is an amazing player with a really unique style. His numbers from last season were crazy.“As a young kid, putting himself in the Ballon d’Or conversation is rare. He’ll be playing at Real Madrid or Man City in a couple of years. More

  • in

    David Moyes shock contender for Premier League comeback with ex-West Ham boss ‘ready to return to management’

    CRYSTAL PALACE would reportedly consider David Moyes as a potential replacement for Oliver Glasner should the under-fire boss leave Selhurst Park in the near future.Glasner’s job is currently under threat due to Palace’s terrible start to the Premier League campaign.Ex-West Ham boss David Moyes could be considered by Crystal Palace if Oliver Glasner leavesCredit: PAOliver Glasner is under increasing pressure at Selhurst ParkCredit: GettyThe Eagles are yet to win a match this season, having lost five out of eight.They now sit 18th in the table with just three points, only above Southampton and Wolves.Glasner has found himself under increasing pressure.And his fate expected to be determined by results prior to the next international break.Read More in FootballShould he fail to improve things, the club have already earmarked his potential replacement.According to talkSPORT, former West Ham boss Moyes could be a contender for the job.The Scot is ready to return to management after leaving the Hammers at the end of last season.Crystal Palace owner Steve Parish is also a long-term admirer of ex-Brighton and Chelsea manager Graham Potter, who has been out of work for the last 18 months.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Eagles face Tottenham, Wolves and Fulham in the Premier League before the international break.Glasner could be granted some extra time at the helm given his impressive end to the 2023-24 season.Did officials cheat Arsenal with dramatic Man City winner and Saliba red card?Palace enjoyed their best-ever finish to a Prem campaign, securing 10th spot on the final day.Austrian boss Glasner joined the club in February following the departure of Roy Hodgson. More

  • in

    Man Utd promote £1million prodigy to first team ahead of Fenerbahce clash as fans say ‘Ten Hag is planning wonders’

    MANCHESTER UNITED wonderkid Sekou Kone is training with the first-team ahead of the clash with Fenerbahce.The Red Devils travel to Turkey to face Jose Mourinho’s side in the Europa League on Thursday.Selou Kone has been training with Man Utd’s first-teamCredit: manutd.comErik ten Hag will not be able to play Kone against FenerbahceCredit: GettyAnd ahead of the game, Erik ten Hag has promoted Kone from the youth-team.But the teenage sensation will have to wait for his debut as he is NOT eligible for selection after being left out Man Utd’s Europa League squad. However, he is able to play Premier League games and in Europe post-January if he is chosen when Ten Hag can change his squad.Other youngsters Harry Amass, Amir Ibragimov, Sam Mather, Ethan Ennis, Ruben Curley, and Habeeb Ogunneye have also reportedly been training with the first-team.READ MORE ON MAN UTDKone, 18, joined for £1million in the summer from Malian outfit Guidars.The midfielder, who has been dubbed “the next Yaya Toure”, caught the eye of Man Utd scouts at the Under-17s World Cup last year.He helped Mali finish third at the tournament, with his performances attracting the likes of Wolves, Crystal Palace, Ajax and RB Salzburg.The boss has a midfield selection headache to deal with as Bruno Fernandes is suspended after picking up a red card in the 3-3 draw with Porto.Most read in Europa LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMeanwhile, the likes of Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, Toby Collyer and Dan Gore are all out injured.Since joining Man Utd in August, Kone has not yet played a game for the club’s Under-21s.Inside Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plans to replace Old Trafford with a ‘Wembley of the North’He has instead been given extra time to settle into life in Manchester.But fans are hoping he makes his debut soon, with one saying: “Erik is planning to do wonders with the youngsters.”Another added: “Him and Mainoo in midfield, scary for our rivals.”Man Utd player ratings vs BrentfordBy Neil CustisMANCHESTER UNITED produced a rousing comeback to beat Brentford at Old Trafford.Goals by Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund cancelled out Ethan Pinnock’s first-half opener.The Red Devils’ win will ease pressure on beleaguered boss Erik ten Hag, who this week defiantly blasted reports that he is on the verge of the sack.On a crucial afternoon for Ten Hag and Co, here’s how SunSport rated each United performer.ANDRE ONANA – 6Did not have much to do for a lot of the game but pulled out a good first-half save to deny Christian Norgaard.DIOGO DALOT – 6Good display from right-back and almost capped it with a goal when he stormed forward only to have his effort beaten away by Mark Flekken.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6At the centre of the controversy in first-half injury time as he had to leave the field with a bleeding head wound when Brentford scored from a corner. He was already looking suspect, as was the bandage that was put on his head early in the game in the first place.JONNY EVANS – 7Continuing an amazing end to his career at Old Trafford. Man of the Match last time out in the goalless draw at Aston Villa and looked solid again. Great ovation when he came off towards the end.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 7Shifted to an unaccustomed left-back spot but without problems and was particularly good getting forward down the flank.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Chosen alongside Casemiro instead of new buy Manuel Ugarte who was on the bench again, but struggled to get into this game although he was involved for Hojlund’s goal. Thankful for the referee’s whistle in the first period calling play back for a foul after missing a sitter.CASEMIRO – 5Looked like he was off in the summer but back in the team although looking to be missing a yard and often beaten to the ball.MARCUS RASHFORD – 7Does not operate as well on the right but Garnacho was so good down the left. Highlight of his first half was an incredible crossfield ball from right to left to set up Garnacho. Then in the second he provided the assist for Garnacho’s leveller.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tried to orchestrate something from midfield but looked a frustrated figure in the first period. Then he showed his class after the break with that great little flick to set up Hojlund for his goal.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 8Had an all action first half after switching from the right to the left but wasted too many chances. Made up for it in the second with a fine finish from Rashford’s cross in a Man of the Match performance.RASMUS HOJLUND – 7After getting one in Porto to open his season’s account he is now off and running with his first league goal of the campaign. A cool, clever chipped little finish it was too. The hope will be that starts a much needed run of goals but he needs to see more of the ball.SUBSTITUTESJoshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 74) – 5Strange change to make after Hojlund had just scored. His replacement fluffed the one half chance he had.Victor Lindelof (for Evans, 89) – 6A change that largely gave the fans a chance to acclaim Evans’ performance.Manuel Ugarte (for Casemiro, 88) – 6A change that probably should have come earlier. More