La Liga

Subterms

    More stories

    • 188 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Forgotten former Premier League goalkeeper saves three penalties from three different players in same game

      by

      HIS three Premier League spells are difficult to recall.But his THREE penalty saves from three different players in the same LaLiga match will never be forgotten.Alex Berenguer was first to be foiled by Paulo GazzanigaCredit: X / PremSportsTVGazzaniga then kept out a poor penalty from Inaki WilliamsCredit: X / PremSportsTVEx-Prem stopper Gazzaniga promptly guessed correctly for a third time to block Ander Herrera, following a re-take of Williams’ kickCredit: X / PremSportsTVPaulo Gazzaniga was something of a triple flop in the Prem.But his treble stop for Girona in a 2-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao was a feat any goalkeeper can only dream of.Incredibly, the home side went on to sneak their win with a 99th-minute SPOT-KICK of their own – straight after Athletic defender Aitor Paredes saw red for two quickfire bookings.Gazzaniga, 32, won a single cap with Argentina six years ago.READ MORE TOP STORIESBut after launching his career with Gillingham, he failed to break through in five years with Southampton.His spells at Tottenham from 2017-2021 and Fulham in the following two years largely went the same way.And after a season on loan with Girona, he moved to Spain permanently in June 2023.Gazzaniga was solid enough last term – but surely nothing will match his spectacular achievement against Athletic.Most read in FootballFans were bowled over by the display of GazzanigaCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe dived full length low to his left to keep out Alex Berenguer’s sidefooted penalty on 28 minutes.Yaser Asprilla fired Girona in front but Oihan Sancet pounced from close range to level for Athletic before the break.I didn’t like Sir Alex Ferguson – but what legendary Man Utd boss did after I quit football will never leave meGazzaniga then produced two more spot-kick blocks just before the hour mark.First he foiled a mediocre effort slotted to his right by Inaki Williams.And although the penalty had to be retaken as Gazzaniga’s feet were off the line, he promptly conjured an almost identical save from ex-Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera.So three times in all he guessed correctly to complete a rarely-seen trio of penalty blocks.Athletic were seething six minutes into added time when VAR ruled Paredes pulled Czech midfielder Ladislav Krejci back inside the box.Paredes went off for two yellows in a minute, for the foul and dissent.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd in went the penalty from Girona skipper Cristhian Stuani – showing Athletic how to do it as he tucked the ball confidently into the bottom right corner.But once the THIRTEEN extra minutes had finished it was Gazzaniga, not Stuani, who dominated the plaudits. More

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid trigger Dani Carvajal contract clause in classy move after defender carried off in tears and out for season

      by

      REAL MADRID have extended Dani Carvajal’s contract until 2026 after his shocking injury that is expected to sideline him for the rest of the season.Carvajal, 32, suffered a horrific clash with Villarreal ace Yeremy Pino during Saturday’s 2-0 win at the Santiago Bernabeu that caused his leg to bend unnaturally. Real Madrid have extended Dani Carvajal’s contract until 2026Credit: RexCarvajal’s leg was bent backwards in the challengeThe Real Madrid star screams in agonyCarvajal suffered a horrific injury against Villarreal and was stretchered off in tearsCredit: EPAHe was then seen in tears before being stretchered offReal ace Carvajal is expected to be sidelined for the rest of the seasonCredit: GettyCarvajal’s selfie from inside the ambulanceThe right-back was in such agony that he was immediately stretchered off in tears before boarding an ambulance to undergo tests at a nearby hospital.The defender posted a selfie from inside the ambulance.He later wrote on Instagram: “Serious cruciate ligament injury confirmed, I’ll have to go through surgery and be off the pitch for a few months.”Already looking forward to starting recovery and coming back like a beast. Thank you so much for your messages, I feel very loved.”Read More on FootballReal confirmed the Spain international sustained a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament, a rupture of the external collateral ligament and a rupture of the popliteus tendon in his right leg.The full-back is now set to undergo surgery with initial reports in Spain claiming he will be sidelined for the rest of the campaign.In a statement, Real Madrid said: “Following tests carried out on Dani Carvajal by the Real Madrid Medical Services, the player has been diagnosed with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, a ruptured external collateral ligament and a ruptured popliteus tendon in his right leg. He will undergo surgery in the coming days.”The club, though, rallied behind Carvajal at this difficult time with a classy move as they extended his deal, which was running out in June.Most read in FootballThe Spaniard has been with Los Blancos since 2002 when he was 10 years old and competed across all of their youth teams.After a year playing at Bayer Leverkusen, the defender joined Real’s senior team in 2013 and went on to win all major honours, including a staggering six Champions League trophies.Carvajal’s wife Daphne paid tribute to her husband and thanked the club for their support.She posted on Instagram: “It still feels like a bad dream. “To see how you were so sad and going through so much pain… and you tried to make me smile. I love and admire you immensely.”Your path back to where you are the happiest starts today. Stronger. Because you always give your all. You still have a lot to win, my life.Real Madrid star Dani Carvajal involved in furious spat with Barcelona boss Xavi during heated Copa del Rey El Clasico”Thank you for so many messages. And to our Real Madrid family, we felt so loved yesterday, I have no words.”This comes amid rumours suggesting Real are looking to sign Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract runs out in June.However, Carvajal’s new deal may have poured cold water on the speculation involving the star right-back. More

    • 213 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Former Stoke flop and two-time Champions League winner makes shock transfer to 10th club of his career

      by

      STOKE flop and two-time Champions League winner Jese Rodriguez has signed for his 10th club to add to his nomadic career.Rodriguez, 31, has been a free agent since January after being released by Brazilian club Coritiba FC.Former Stoke flop Jese Rodriguez has signed for the 10th club of his careerCredit: AFP – GettyJese Rodriguez has signed for Malaysian champions Johor Southern TigersCredit: X formerly Twitter / @OfficialJohorThe two-time champions league winner was teased by the club on social mediaCredit: X formerly Twitter / @OfficialJohorHe was shrouded as a silhouette ahead of an eye-popping backgroundCredit: X formerly Twitter / @OfficialJohorHe was later revealed in the club’s red and blue kitCredit: X formerly Twitter / @OfficialJohorThe Spanish forward has previously starred for Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.He has also turned out for Real Betis, Sporting Lisbon, Sampdoria and Las Palmas among others.However, his latest club has taken him to all the way to Asia, after being announced as a new signing for Malaysian side Johor Darul Ta’zim, otherwise known as JDT or Southern Tigers.Taking to social media, the club unveiled Rodriguez with a dramatic video.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 45-second clip featured a clip of the ace scoring for Real Madrid before transitioning into teasing him wearing the club’s kit.It showed him showing off the blue and red strip before revealing he would wear shirt number 33.Rodriguez was also seen in a black shirt and tie, before ending with him staring down the lens of the camera as it zoomed in on him.JDT are the reigning champions of the Malaysia Super League and sit top of the table this season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThey play at the 40,000 capacity stadium, Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, located in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, in the south of the country.They are the 10th club of his career.Transfer fees could be SCRAPPED forever after Lassana Diarra wins landmark court case against FifaEnglish football fans will best remember Rodriguez from his time on loan at Stoke.While in England he managed just one goal and one assist in 13 games. His accolades include winning the Champions League twice with Real Madrid, the Club World Cup, La Liga, Uefa Super Cup and French League Cup and Super Cup.He has made five appearances for the Spanish national team, scoring twice.During his time unemployed, Rodriguez celebrated his wedding anniversary with stunning wife Aurah Ruiz, who got married in 2022.Taking to Instagram in one post where he shared a picture of their wedding day, he said: “Happy anniversary my baby!READ MORE SUN STORIES”Thank you for giving me happiness and most of all the meaning of knowing and feeling true love.”I love you very much and do not doubt that we will continue to enjoy all this that we have formed so beautifully for the rest of our lives.”Rodriguez played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Real MadridCredit: Getty More

    • 200 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid ‘open transfer talks with Trent Alexander-Arnold’ with Liverpool star’s contract expiring in the summer

      by

      REAL MADRID have made contact with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s representatives over a blockbuster free transfer, according to reports.Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool contract is set to expire at the end of the season.Trent Alexander-Arnold has been linked with Real MadridCredit: RexThe England full-back, 25, has not ruled out penning a new deal to extend his stay at Anfield.But Real Madrid chiefs are eager to lure him to Spain.According to Spanish outlet Relevo, the LaLiga giants have contacted Alexander-Arnold’s representatives on several occasions.Their report adds that Real bosses feel that Alexander-Arnold’s friendship with Jude Bellingham could work to their advantage.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe duo have developed a close bond while playing for England together.Alexander-Arnold has played 318 times for boyhood club Liverpool since debuting in 2016.Prior to this season, he had experienced his entire club career under Jurgen Klopp.He has started every Premier League and Champions League game so far under Klopp’s successor Arne Slot.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut in five of the eight contests, he has been substituted.Last month, Alexander-Arnold was quizzed regarding his future.Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Bold £84m Bid for NantesHe said: “Look, I have been at the club 20 years now.”I have signed four or five contract extensions and none of those have been played out in public – and this one won’t be either.”I have always said I want to captain the club – that is an aim and a goal of mine, whether that happens is out of my hands. I want to be a Liverpool player this season is what I will say.”The most important thing is always trophies if I am honest. This season we are looking really good.”Alexander-Arnold has so far won a Premier League title, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup and Club World Cup with the Reds.While he has also earned 31 England caps.The right-back isn’t the only Liverpool key man set to be out of contract next summer.Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah’s deals are also set to expire in June 2025.Slot, 46, was this morning asked about the contract statuses of his three key men.He said: “Contracts? I was hoping you didn’t use that word.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It’s the same boring answer as always and I could really understand if you ask me this every two weeks but every other day.”People think I am boring with the same answer. Try asking after the international break.”Arne Slot was tight-lipped when asked about Alexander-Arnold’s contract situationCredit: Reuters More

    • 213 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Kylian Mbappe OUT of France squad after Real Madrid nightmare but five Premier League stars called up

      by

      KYLIAN MBAPPE has been left out of Didier Deschamps’ France squad.The Real Madrid forward, 25, will not be available for Les Bleus’ matches against Israel and Belgium later this month.Kylian Mbappe was in action from the bench as Real Madrid lost 1-0 to LilleCredit: GettyMbappe suffered an injury scare during his club’s 3-2 win over Deportivo Alaves last month.He was substituted after feeling an issue in his hamstring, and following subsequent tests was expected to be missing for three weeks.The former Paris Saint-Germain star has recovered earlier than expected from his injury, and was deemed fit enough to make a 33 minute cameo from the bench against Lille last night in the Champions League.He was unable to turn the tide, however, with Real Madrid falling to a 1-0 defeat to the Ligue 1 side, who boast Mbappe’s younger brother Ethan among their ranks.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDespite Kylian having returned to fitness, Deschamps has opted against calling him up.Mbappe has played 10 times for Real Madrid since quitting PSG for the Spanish capital in the summer.He has so far scored seven goals for his new team, and had bagged in his last four appearances prior to getting injured.Mbappe’s Real Madrid team-mates Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga will join up with France following their club’s clash with Villarreal this Saturday.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut Ferland Mendy has been left out.Despite Mbappe’s absence, Deschamps will have plenty of attacking quality to call upon.Watch Jude Bellingham’s expletive-laden instructions to Mbappe and Co at half-time of Real Madrid drawIn-form PSG winger Bradley Barcola will be involved, as will his club team-mates Ousmane Dembele and Randal Kolo Muani.Bayern Munich star Michael Olise is also in the squad, as is Inter Milan’s Marcus Thuram.There is a recall for Chelsea star Christopher Nkunku, who has played just 29 minutes for his country since being ruled out of the 2022 World Cup on the eve of the tournament.In addition to Nkunku, Premier League stars William Saliba, Ibrahima Konate, Lucas Digne and Wesley Fofana have all been called up.France’s squad is jam-packed with quality More

    • 200 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Spanish media turns on Jude Bellingham as England star slammed for ‘declining’ after Kylian Mbappe transfer

      by

      JUDE BELLINGHAM has “declined” following Kylian Mbappe’s arrival at Real Madrid, according to a Spanish media outlet.The 21-year-old enjoyed an outstanding debut season at Real Madrid, winning both the Champions League and LaLiga.Jude Bellingham has ‘declined’ this season, according to the Spanish mediaCredit: ReutersKylian Mbappe joined Real Madrid in a free transfer this summerCredit: GettyHe managed 36 goal involvements in 42 appearances for Los Blancos, making him one of the club’s most influential players.But Spanish outlet AS claims Bellingham has suffered a “decline” this term.The midfielder has managed just two assists in seven games since the start of the campaign.He is yet to score.Read More in FootballLast season, he scored six goals and assisted two in his first seven matches.With former Paris Saint-Germain striker Mbappe having joined Real Madrid in a huge free transfer this summer, Bellingham’s role in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad has changed.The England star now plays in a slightly deeper position, meaning his attacking impact is limited.But AS suggests it has negatively affected his game.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBellingham’s average stats comparedA recent article from the popular Spanish publication read: “In Bellingham’s case, the decline is much more palpable: he has only two assists, without goals, in seven games played.”Last season, after seven games, he had scored six goals. These figures should not be compared coldly, because his role now, since the arrival of Mbappe, is very different, but the Englishman is still looking for his best version as a midfielder.”Jude Bellingham follows Cristiano Ronaldo in launching YouTube channel with behind-the-scenes footage of England starReal Madrid suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Lille on Wednesday.New signing Mbappe started the match on the bench and was introduced in the second half.However, he failed to make an impact.At full-time, manager Ancelotti said: “It was complicated, it was not our best game and we have to clean our heads.”It seemed that we were improving, but we took a step back with this match.”Lille have been better than us. We could use a stroke of attention and a little criticism.” More

    • 175 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Champions League: Arsenal’s opponents Girona set unwanted competition record as fans claim ‘they’re cursed’

      by

      GIRONA set an unwanted Champions League record during their clash with Feyenoord last night.The Catalan side lost 3-2 to the Dutch giants in their first ever Champions League match on home soil.Girona were beaten 3-2 in their first ever Champions League home matchCredit: GettyGirona’s team sheet featured a host of names that will be familiar to British football fans.Former Manchester United star Donny van de Beek started in midfield, with Tottenham loanee Bryan Gil and former Spurs stopper Paulo Gazzaniga also in the XI.Summer signing from Aberdeen Bojan Miovski got the nod up top, while ex-Tottenham, Everton and Bournemouth ace Arnut Danjuma came off the bench alongside former Championship duo Yaser Asprilla and Cristhian Stuani.Girona began their Champions League campaign a fortnight ago with a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat at Paris Saint-Germain.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe tournament debutants held their own until the 90th minute, when Gazzaniga scored a nightmare own goal.In last night’s 3-2 defeat to Feyenoord, Girona scored two further own goals – setting an unwanted record in the process.Michel’s men had actually taken the lead on 19 minutes, when David Lopez scored their first ever Champions League goal.But they were pegged back just four minutes later, with Yangel Herrera turning into his own net.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThis moment saw Girona become the first side to ever concede own goals in each of their opening two games in the competition.It also saw them become the first team to have their first two Champions League concessions be via own goals.Arsenal set to play Champions League decider in half-empty stadium with tiny away allocation thanks to little-known rule Remarkably, more records would tumble as the extraordinary encounter progressed.Teenager Antoni Milambo put the visitors 2-1 in front on 33 minutes, before Feyenoord were awarded a penalty just moments later.Having given the ball away in the build-up to the spot kick, Gazzaniga made amends by saving Ayase Ueda’s subsequent effort.Girona thought they’d levelled just after half-time, only for their goal to be disallowed for an offside in the build-up.They then spurned a huge opportunity on 67 minutes, with Miovski this time being denied from the penalty spot.Yangel Herrera scored an unfortunate own goalCredit: GettyPaulo Gazzaniga saved Ayase Ueda’s penaltyCredit: GettyThe home faithful did finally have an equaliser to cheer on 73 minutes, however, when Van de Beek converted following good work by his Dutch compatriot Danjuma.Incredibly, Girona gifted Feyenoord their lead back just six minutes later, with Ladislav Krejci this time turning into his own net.The Czech international’s nightmare moment saw the match become the first in Champions League history to feature two missed penalties and two own goals.Try as they might, Girona could not conjure another equaliser, with Feyenoord winning a bonkers encounter 3-2.Former Man Utd star Donny van de Beek celebrates his goalCredit: GettyFeyenoord celebrate Ladislav Krejci’s own goalCredit: AFPAmazingly, the memorable match was watched by under 10,000 fans.That’s because due to Uefa rules, Girona were forced to operate with a reduced capacity.Their Estadi Montilivi home usually holds 14,624 spectators.But Uefa competitions ban temporary structures, thus reducing the stadium’s capacity by more than 5,000 seats.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis rule will also be in effect when Arsenal visit Girona.The two sides are set to meet in Catalonia on January 29.The match was forced to be played in front of a reduced capacityCredit: Reuters More

    • 213 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid stunned as Lille end their mammoth 36-GAME unbeaten run with 1-0 win in Champions League

      by

      REAL MADRID’S 36-game unbeaten run collapsed as Lille stunned the Champions League holders.Jonathan David’s penalty also stopped Los Blancos equalling a club record of 15 straight games in Europe’s top club competition without defeat.Jonathan David hails his penalty winner for LilleCredit: GettyJude Bellingham shows his frustration as Real slumped 1-0Credit: GettyReal striker Kylian Mbappe came on for defender Eder Militao but it proved in vain as Lille pulled off an early shock in this season’s Champions LeagueCredit: ReutersCarlo Ancelotti’s LaLiga champs have stuttered all season.Yet until now they had not tasted a loss since Atletico Madrid KO’d them 4-2 after extra-time in the Copa del Rey in January.And Real’s last Champions League reverse was as long ago as May 2023 – a 4-0 semi-final second-leg loss to Manchester City at the Etihad.But Lille were as impressive for the first hour as Los Blancos were subdued for large spells.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd only Real keeper Andriy Lunin’s breathtaking double save denied Canadian striker David.Finally, in first-half stoppage-time, VAR ruled Eduardo Camavinga had blocked Edon Zhegrova’s free-kick with his arm.And David – long linked with Premier League clubs – fired home the resulting spot kick.Real’s England midfielder Jude Bellingham was booked as his side struggled.Most read in Champions LeagueDavid tucks his spot-kick winner as Real’s Aurelien Tchouameni looks onCredit: AFPFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut Kylian Mbappe – returning following a thigh problem – came off the bench to help Ancelotti’s men pile on the pressure late on.Ex-Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger had a header cleared off the line.Kate Abdo stuns in bold outfit live on CBS Sports for Champions League coverage sending fans into meltdownArda Guler then nodded a gaping chance straight at Lille stopper Lucas Chevalier. Nonetheless, the French hosts will feel they deservedly held on for one of their finest ever victories.And to make things worse for Mbappe, his 17-year-old younger brother Ethan, who only missed out on playing for Lille due to a muscle problem, was shown by TNT Sports LEADING the home team’s dressing-room celebrations.And for Real their mediocre form now faces its most intensive examination.Barcelona are three points clear of Los Blancos in LaLiga.And Real are at home to third-placed Villarreal on Saturday.But it’s in the Champions League where Ancelotti might suffer the most heat.Real did beat Stuttgart 3-1 in their opener last month.But after Wednesday’s loss, they face Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan and Liverpool next.Ancelotti’s side will still expect to finish in the top 24 and advance to from the new-look group stage.READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, they will need positive results in some tricky clashes if they are to finish in the top eight and punch a fast-track ticket to the last 16.If they finish between 9th and 24th in the 36-team league, they will face an extra two-legged knockout tie. More