La Liga

Subterms

    More stories

    • 213 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Jude Bellingham showed why is England’s best player in 50 years – with wonderfully un-English winning mentality

      by

      WHEN Jude Bellingham rescued England’s Euros campaign from humiliation with a spectacular overhead-kick, his celebration caused a stir.After that 95th-minute equaliser in the last-16 clash with Slovakia, Real Madrid’s Brummie was seen yelling: ‘Who else?’Jude Bellingham scored an added-time winner for Real Madrid at Manchester CityCredit: AFPBellingham goaded the City fans with his trademark celebrationCredit: APBellingham rescued England’s Euros campaign with his spectacular injury-time overhead kick against SlovakiaCredit: GettyHe also netted TWO injury-time Clasico winners last season, this one at the BernabeuCredit: AFPAnd this one was in Barcelona last seasonCredit: EPADid it indicate arrogance? An over-inflated ego? A desire for individual glory over team success?Not really. It was probably just the instinctive reaction of a player who seizes big moments so frequently, that he simply expects them to happen.When Bellingham poked home in the 92nd minute at Manchester City on Tuesday, it was the sixth time in his 75-match Real career that he had netted an injury-time winner.“Who else?”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTwo of those previous efforts arrived in Bellingham’s first two Clasicos against Barcelona – the most prestigious and ferocious club fixture on Earth.Bellingham had been quiet in the first half at the Etihad. He hadn’t illuminated the place like his fellow Galacticos – especially Vinicius Jr, his club’s spurned unofficial ‘winner’ of last year’s Ballon d’Or.But in the second half his influence grew, although he missed a couple of very presentable chances.And when Vinicius lobbed Ederson in the dying seconds, it was Bellingham who found the killer touch which allowed Real to carry a 3-2 advantage into the second leg of their Champions League play-off.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBecause that’s what Bellingham does.This time, it was his trademark celebration – standing with his arms outstretched in front of the seething City faithful. Like Christ the Redeemer peering down over Rio.Man City player ratings vs Real MadridIf there is an element of arrogance about this then, well, Bellingham has plenty to be arrogant about.Bellingham is England’s best and most influential footballer in more than half a century, since Sir Bobby Charlton was in his pomp.Paul Scholes, one of England’s finest since Charlton, says Bellingham is ‘better than anything we’ve seen’.And he is also quite unlike any other English footballer we have known.He can often seem other-worldy because, despite the Premier League’s global financial dominance, the 21-year-old has never played in England’s top flight.Leaving Birmingham as a 16-year-old for Borussia Dortmund then snubbing Liverpool, most notably, before joining Madrid and firing the world’s famous club to the Spanish title and their 15th European Cup in his maiden campaign as Real’s top scorer and La Liga’s Player of the Season.We don’t see all that much of him, and we hear even less.Bellingham rarely speaks to the media. After 40 caps, he is yet to be interviewed by the written press. During the Euros, a set-piece TV interview was suddenly cancelled at the last minute to the disappointment of the FA.In an era of openness and accessibility around the England camp, Bellingham’s fiercely-protective father Mark – who seems constantly angry at the world his son inhabits – keeps the 21-year-old wrapped in cotton wool.This contributes towards the feeling that, while Bellingham is admired in England, he isn’t loved.It adds to the idea of detachment, of difference, of ‘otherness’.Bellingham has inherited some of his father’s anger. That irrational belief that the world is against him.Last weekend, he was heard F-bombing a linesman who had failed to award Real a throw-in during the Madrid derby against Atletico and earlier this season he called a referee a ‘piece of s***’ during a victory over Espanyol.While at Dortmund, Bellingham was fined for bringing up the match-fixing past of referee Felix Zwayer.Since joining Real 18 months ago, Bellingham has clocked up 22 yellow cards for club and country, as well as one red for dissent after the final whistle robbed him of another injury-time winner against Valencia.This is no Mr Nice Guy. In truth, winners rarely are.And then there is that supreme self-belief, which seems, rather wonderfully, un-English.England players, even the best of them, so often end up as plucky losers.The idea of heroic failure is a national characteristic. But it’s not for Bellingham.Bellingham keeps on winning games in injury-time.He was widely perceived to have suffered a disappointing Euros last summer.And yet he dominated the first half of England’s tournament opener against Serbia, scoring the only goal, he saved the summer with that extraordinary leveller against Slovakia and he assisted Cole Palmer’s equaliser in the final defeat by Spain.There is that supreme self-belief, which seems, rather wonderfully, un-EnglishDAVE KIDD ON BELLINGHAMThis despite being shunted out to the left wing for much of the campaign to accommodate Phil Foden, who has never seized the momentum and turned international matches in England’s favour as Bellingham has often done.There were mutterings about Bellingham’s character. Suggestions he didn’t fit into Gareth Southgate’s team ethos.And yet even in that tournament, with Bellingham physically and mentally drained after an all-conquering campaign in Spain, he was able to bend big occasions to his will.For Real last season, despite no previous experience in the role, he played much of the campaign as a ‘false nine’.READ MORE SUN STORIESSince the arrival of Kylian Mbappe, he has reverted to his preferred midfield role and yet when Real needed an injury-time winner at the Etihad, who was in the right place at the right time?Bellingham, who else?SAVED BY THE BELLJUDE Bellingham’s injury-time winners for Real MadridGetafe (h) Sept 2 2023 – 2-1 winUnion Berlin (h) Sept 20 2023 – 1-0 winBarcelona (a) Oct 28 2023 – 2-1 winBarcelona (h) Apr 21 2024 – 3-2 winValencia (a) Jan 3 2025 – 2-1 winMan City (a) Feb 11 2025 – 3-2 win  More

    • 263 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘I think so’ – Real Betis CEO hints Antony’s loan transfer could be made permanent to end flop’s Man Utd nightmare

      by

      REAL BETIS are interested in keeping Manchester United flop Antony for an extra year.The Brazil winger — on loan at the LaLiga club for the rest of the season with no option to buy — has started well in Spain.Real Betis are interested in keeping Manchester United flop AntonyCredit: AFPAntony moved to Betis on loan from Man Utd after a series of poor performancesCredit: PAAntony, 24, struggled for game time at United and Betis chief exec Ramon Alcaron – when asked if he could stay permanently said: “Yes, I think so.“The other day the CEO of United called me.“We sent them details of the player throughout the week so they can see we’re looking after their asset.“We have very good chemistry with United and the player, who is happy here.Read More on Man Utd“It is a possibility that he will continue next season, why not?”Antony joined United in 2022 following a whopping £86million deal with Ajax.However, the winger never managed to live up to the bill as he only amassed a mere total of 12 goals and five assists in 96 appearances with Man Utd.However, the Brazil international has hit the ground running at Betis ever since his loan move last month.Most read in FootballThe forward provided an assist on his debut against Athletic Bilbao during a 2-2 draw at the Benito Villamarin.The ex-Ajax star then scored on his second match at Celta Vigo during a 3-2 loss.Paul Scholes tells Ruben Amorim Man Utd are staring relegation in the face unless they make seven new signings Antony is looking to regain his former goalscoring prowess that led to his blockbuster move to Old Trafford.The Brazilian burst onto the scene at Ajax where he registered a total of 24 goals and 22 assists in 82 appearances during a two-year stint in Amsterdam. More

    • 275 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Jude Bellingham joined by model girlfriend Ashlyn and mum as they fly home with Real Madrid team after win over Man City

      by

      REAL MADRID hero Jude Bellingham flew home with his mother and girlfriend following his match-winning exploits against Manchester City.Despite twice going behind in Manchester, Madrid showed their nous in the Champions League by emerging victorious in the first leg of their play-off against City.Jude Bellingham was seen flying home from Manchester after his match-winning heroicsCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeHe also wore a flat cap to go through the airportCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeBellingham’s mum, Denise and his girlfriend, Ashlyn Castro were on the team flight homeCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeBellingham’s parents met Ashlyn for the first time last monthCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe American model wore a colourful scarf with a cream coat and blue trousersCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeBellingham was seen with a black shirt and trousers comboCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeErling Haaland struck twice for the home side, but the holders scored through Kylian Mbappe and Brahim Diaz before Bellingham scored an injury time winner.The 21-year-old flew back home with the rest of the Los Blancos squad on Tuesday night.Bellingham was seen in a suave black shirt and trousers combo with a flat cap.He accessorised his look with a monogram signature Louis Vuitton bag, worth more than £2,000 on retail.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe former Birmingham and Borussia Dortmund star’s mum, Denise and model girlfriend, Ashlyn Castro accompanied him on the flight.Ashlyn, who was first pictured with Bellingham in January, was seen keeping the cold at bay with a colourful scarf from fashion brand Acne Studios.The 27-year-old American was also seen with a cream coloured jacket, light blue jeans and brown boots.Denise also donned a fashionable black leather coat and white jumper combo.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe Sun exclusively revealed how Ashlyn met Denise, 56, and dad Mark, 48, in the Spanish capital at the end of January in the family box at a Real Madrid game.She hugged Denise as Jude’s team ran out 5-1 winners against Salzburg in the Champions League.Wholesome moment Jude Bellingham leaves a young Real Madrid fan crying with happiness as he hands him his shirtEngland superstar Bellingham and Ashlyn then went for lunch together the next day.Pals say they have been on several dates after they began liking each other’s social media posts.Bellingham was said to have been particularly drawn to one in November featuring pictures of Ashlyn in a low-cut dress lying on a bed.She is from Los Angeles where Bellingham and Three Lions team-mate Trent Alexander-Arnold went on holiday after the Euros in July.Ashlyn, who has 140,000 Instagram followers, was rumoured to have previously dated Creed actor Michael B Jordan and was linked with basketball player LaMelo Ball, 23.Last weekend The Sun also exclusively revealed how Bellingham still has a profile on celeb dating app Raya, a dating app for high-profile celebs.But the Daily Mail have reported Bellingham has now deleted his account.The 27-year-old model has more than 240,000 followers on InstagramCredit: InstagramMadrid team-mates like Kylian Mbappe were seen going through the airportCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeBrahim Diaz was lowkey after scoring against his former clubCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeLuka Modric came off the bench during the 3-2 winCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeVinicius Junior took photos with fans after setting up Bellingham’s winnerCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeManager Carlo Ancelotti had a smile on his face knowing his side have a second-leg advantageCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeFootball legend Roberto Carlos was also in attendanceCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke More

    • 250 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Man City vs Real Madrid LIVE RESULT: Jude Bellingham scores 92nd-MINUTE goal as Real fight back from behind to win

      by

      JUDE BELLINGHAM scored two minutes into injury time as Real Madrid fought back from a goal down to BEAT Manchester City.Erling Haaland scored twice as City took a 2-1 lead into the last ten minutes. But Brahim Diaz scored against his former side before before Jude Bellingham poked home from close range to earn a massive win.The second leg takes place next week.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…More from AncelottiThey are a really good team and they played a really good game in my opinion.I think it was a penalty [Foden fouled]. The referee is one of the best in Europe.It was a big goal [from Bellingham]. He played a fantastic game and was always dangerous. It was a top game for him.Carlo AncelottiCopy linkCopied’We have to stay calm’Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti also spoke to Amazon prime after the game. We didn’t deserve to be 1-2 down. We were really dangerous and defended really well.At the end of the day the victory is deserved.We have to stay calm. It’s only the first half. Anything can happen at the Bernabeu.[I liked] The character, the personality. We had a good block defensively.It wasn’t easy. Tonight we were able to do this.Carlo AncelottiCopy linkCopiedMore from PepToday was tight and in certain times we had chances.Many games at the end we give away. In that level it is so difficult. It is not the first time, it happens many times.There are mistakes in similar areas. It is difficult to manage but yeah, it happens many times.Players take decisions in the moment, sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t. We arrived in the last minute with the result but we could not keep it.It belongs to all of us, not just the players. I have not a problem to accept that it doesn’t work like it worked in the past. It is all of us.They want it, how they run and how they do it but the truth is that we are not stable enough in the moments. At the end, today is what it is and after tomorrow we have to continue to learn.There are many, many good things that we played. The result is what it is. Of course we did many good things, things can improve and always give credit for the opponent and the quality they have.Pep Guardiola, Man CityCopy linkCopiedLeave everything out on the pitchAnything but victory at Santiago Bernabeu would see Man City crash out of Europe and seriously dent any hopes of silverware.When you look at the squad, you cannot deny there is enough quality to give anyone a game.However, Guardiola will need every one of his starting XI to give the performance of their seasons to see them progress to the round of 16.With the tie so finely poised, it is another mouth-watering clash to look forward to.Copy linkCopiedTough run ahead for SpaniardMan City have a crucial period of their campaign coming up.With so much to do in this second-leg, Guardiola also needs to juggle a very testing domestic run.Add to that, after their trip to Madrid, they welcome league leaders Liverpool to The Etihad.Copy linkCopiedPep reeling after throwing game awaySpeaking with Amazon Prime post-match, Guardiola was very matter of fact in his overview of his side’s performance:Many times happen this season. I know the quality of Real Madrid and what they have. Sometimes it is not about the other team but we gave away what we had. Of course now it is tough, we have to recover and look to Newcastle. We have to go to the Bernabeu and score goals, that is for sure.Pep GuardiolaMan CityCopy linkCopiedMassive challenge for Citizens aheadNot many people will be putting their savings on Man City getting the victory they need in Madrid in the second leg.That said, you also wouldn’t bet against it.If they can find a performance more akin to the City of old, anything is possible for Guardiola’s side still.They will need to go there with attacking intent, which could make for another European classic.Copy linkCopiedBell of the ball in ManchesterYou could have been forgiven for wondering if Jude Bellingham was even playing in the first-half until he almost got booked.Exceptional players have the ability of just popping up at the right time to deliver the goods.The England midfielder did just that, scoring the winner for Carlo Ancelotti’s side late on in the game.Copy linkCopiedDemons cloud minds of City playersHaving experienced so many incidents which would be unthinkable in previous seasons, it seems to be getting to the players.There is a vulnerability to this Man City team and even from a position of strength, the game can still change in an instant.Despite bringing players in during the transfer window, it looks like the spine of this trophy laden squad needs replacing.Even with Rodri back, something has changed at The Etihad.Rebuilding Man City may be Pep Guardiola’s biggest challenge of his managerial career.Credit: AlamyCredit: EPACopy linkCopiedHeads drop after late defeatSpeaking with Amazon Prime after tonight’s match, Stones faced up to the media:Yeh, especially so close after the Arsenal one. I do not know how to even put it. Angry and frustrated is what I can say. I haven’t got the answer but we need to see games out better that is for sure. The manager said we have to take accountability for what happens on the pitch. It’s not done, we have to stay positive, which is difficult right now. We know the quality Madrid have and what has happened is avoidable by us. We have to do better.John StonesMan CityCopy linkCopiedCity have lost the ‘fear factor’Form is temporary, class is permanent.Man City are currently proving that to not be the case.Teams used to fear going up against Pep Guardiola’s side, wherever it may be.Now, that does not seem to be the case and the players no longer seem to believe it either.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedLos Blancos stun Eithad crowdIt just shows the potential of this Real Madrid side in the attacking third, you are never safe against them.Man City found that out the hard way as they went from leading the encounter heading into the closing stages, only to end up with defeat.Pep Guardiola has it all to do now to try and keep his side’s season on track and with a potential of some silverware.Credit: GettyCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedEnglish star haunts Man CityAfter scoring the added-time winner, Bellingham spoke with Amazon Prime after the match:It was a weird one. I don’t care what form City are in, they are always tricky to play. There are ups and down in these sorts of games. I just kept running to see if the ball came out wide and put it in. Like I say, I thought we were playing well and the chances would come. We are in a good position now to go to the Bernabeu.Jude BellinghamReal MadridCopy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Martin Blackburn at The EtihadA STUNNED silence greeted the final whistle at the Etihad as City somehow threw another game away. Erling Haaland’s two goals looked to have given them a crucial advantage to take to Spain but two poor goals in the last few minutes turned the game on its head. Jude Bellingham will never score an easier goal than the one he tapped in with the last kick. City have a mountain to climb in eight days time to avoid an early European exit.Copy linkCopiedFT: Man City 2-3 Real MadridThis is a massive victory for Real Madrid.With only four minutes remaining, they trailed by a goal.Not only did they find an equaliser, they even managed to grab a winner.Copy linkCopiedFT: Man City 2-3 Real MadridWow. What a game.The referee brings the game to a close, a true classic.Man City have thrown this game away in the closing stages.Copy linkCopiedMan City 2-3 Real Madrid90+2. What a turnaround from Real Madrid.The visitors break forward with pace and Vinicius Junior lifts the ball over Ederson, who is racing out of his goal.His effort is not going in and Bellingham is there to slot home.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)Copy linkCopiedMan City 2-2 Real Madrid90. That equaliser has really stunned The Etihad.Everyone thought that Man City had sealed victory with Haaland’s penalty.We are going to have three added minutes.Copy linkCopiedMan City 2-2 Real Madrid88. What a blow for Guardiola’s side.A poor kick from Ederson gifts possession to the visitors.As they come forward, the Brazilian saves the initial effort but Diaz is there to tuck home the rebound.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Brahim Diaz (Real Madrid)Copy linkCopiedMan City 2-1 Real Madrid86. Lewis has a good game since coming on at the interval.Vinicius Junior looks to take him on again but the sliding challenge is superb.Ancelotti looks a bit worried now on the touchline.Copy linkCopiedMan City 2-1 Real Madrid84. Real Madrid have brought on the evergreen Modric.He is coming up to his 40th birthday very soon.Man City briing on Marmoush and Gundogan for the final flurry.De Bruyne and Savinho are the players being replaced.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedMan City 2-1 Real Madrid82. This has been a great watch for the neutral this evening.It has been more of a rollercoaster for the two sets of fans.We have a big finish to this tie on our hands now.Copy linkCopiedMan City 2-1 Real Madrid80. What a huge goal that could be in Man City’s season.Haaland steps up to take it and sends Courtois the wrong way.That said, even if the keeper had chosen correctly, that penalty was right in the bottom corner of the goal.Copy linkCopied More

    • 238 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio investigated in child pornography case and could face up to five years in prison

      by

      REAL MADRID star Raul Asencio is set to face trial in a child pornography case.The defender is accused of disseminating images and a video of a minor and will stand trial in the Canary Islands.Raul Asencio is set to stand trial in a child pornography caseCredit: RexThree former Real Madrid reserve players are involved and claimed to have taken and recorded the content.Asencio, 21, is not deemed responsible for taking the images but he had access to them and is alleged to passed them onto others.It is claimed the players involved lied when they told the girls involved that the material had been deleted.Asencio reportedly requested to be left out of the trial but that has been denied by the court and if found guilty of disseminating child pornography he could be sentenced up to five years in prison.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThree former Real players – Ferran Ruiz, 21, Juan Rodriguez, 22, and Andres Garcia, 21 – were arrested in September 2023, with Asencio called to give testimony as a witness.After speaking to police Asencio became part of the investigation.A statement from Real Madrid at the time read: “Real Madrid wishes to announce that it has learned that a Castilla player and three Real Madrid C players have made statements to the Civil Guard in relation to a complaint about the alleged broadcasting of a private video via WhatsApp.”When the club has detailed knowledge of the facts, we will take the appropriate measures.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA statement from the High Court of Justice of Gran Canaria in November read: “The judge is investigating four footballers linked to Real Madrid as alleged perpetrators of crimes of disclosure of secrets and dissemination of pornography.”Ascencio is in line to start against Liverpool at Anfield with Real facing a defensive injury crisis.Erling Haaland falls down in training as Man City prepare for Real Madrid clash They are without experienced stars Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao and David Alaba. More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Man City vs Real Madrid prediction: Free betting tips, odds and Champions League preview for play off first leg

      by

      THE new Champions League format promised huge clashes earlier on in the competition and they certainly deliver that when Manchester City and Real Madrid meet on Tuesday.The pair flopped in the league phase, finishing outside the top eight and setting up this huge play-off clash for a spot in the last-16.So SunSport have enlisted the help of their betting experts to preview the European showdown 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 exclusivesManchester City vs Real Madrid previewThe new format has thrown up a blockbuster clash and neither Manchester City nor Real Madrid would want this so early.City’s wretched form since that Spurs defeat in the League Cup in October likely makes them underdogs to progress here.They needed Kevin de Bruyne and Phil Foden to come off the bench to progress in the FA Cup at League One Leyton Orient at the weekend.The rather embarrassing scenes of the pair playing for time and taking the ball into the corner shows how fragile the side is at present.So it’s a good thing for them that Madrid arrive with a defensive injury crisis which was furthered at the weekend.Madrid arrive without Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, Lucas Vazquex AND Eder Militao, with a new-look, makeshift back four set to play.However, they will still have a dynamic front line which is bound to cause this shaky City defence issues.It’s the fourth straight European competition that these sides have matched up in, with Madrid winning on penalties after a 4-4 score on aggregate in last season’s quarter finals.City had beaten them 4-0 and 4-3 on their previous two visits to the Etihad. With attack the best form of defence, those high scores could come into play again here.First scorer and correct score predictionsCorrect score: 2-2 at 9/1 with Betfred – HEREFirst scorer: Vinicius Jr 13/2 with talkSPORT BET – HEREMan City vs Real Madrid latest oddsOdds 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*Man City vs Real Madrid predictions and tipsTchou are ya?This back four are going to be seriously tested, particularly against a Man City team who have to come out and go for it at home you’d think.That could put all sorts of pressure on Aurelien Tchouameni, who has filled in there plenty of times but it’s still not completely natural for him.The physical battle with Erling Haaland will test him, as will the likely speed out wide. Booked in last European game at Brest.Aurelien Tchouameni to be carded at 3/1 with William Hill – 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. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply.*BetMGM. New customers only. 7 days to place a qualifying bet of £10 at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1x £10 Free Bet on Football, 1x £10 Free Bet on Horse Racing, 2 x £10 Free Bet Builders. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. Full T&Cs apply.*talkSPORT BET. 18+ New customers only. Opt in, bet up to £40 (min. £20) on any football market at odds of 2.00+, in 7 days. Get up to £40 in free bets on selected markets. Bonuses expire in 7 days. T&Cs apply, see below. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly*Tote. New customers online only. Eligibility restrictions apply. 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 – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More

    • 263 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘We were an incredible machine… now I don’t know’ – Pep Guardiola reveals fears as City prepare for Madrid’s Fab 4

      by

      PEP GUARDIOLA admits he has no idea which Manchester City will turn up for their Champions League showdown with Real Madrid.City’s “incredible machine” malfunctioned during a disastrous run at the end of 2024 and they were thumped 5-1 in the Prem by Arsenal nine days ago.Pep Guardiola admits he does not know which Man City team will turn upCredit: GettyAnd he fears the quality of Real Madrid’s Fab 4, including Jude BellinghamCredit: GettyAhead of tonight’s play-off first leg at the Etihad, boss Guardiola said: “This season we struggled a lot. Before I would feel, ‘Yeah, the team is consistent, we can do it’. Now it’s like, ‘I don’t know’.“You never know before the game what’s going to happen, how they react. And now we’ve had a lot of injuries, players are a little bit up and down.”City have won seven of their last ten games in all competitions, a run that included the humiliation by the Gunners and a 4-2 loss to Paris Saint-Germain.Guardiola’s reigning Prem champs are currently fifth — 15 points behind leaders Liverpool.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd he said: “We are not being consistent. What defined this team in the last decade is we are an incredible machine every three days.“Otherwise, we could not win six titles in seven years and these incredible trophies.“Of course, we can perform well on Tuesday, of course we can perform well in Madrid, of course we can perform well to the end of the season,“But before, I could tell you, ‘OK, it’s going to happen now’ — and now  I don’t know how it’s going to react, that’s the reality.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThis is the fifth time in six seasons the heavyweights have been drawn together after struggling in the new-look league phase.Pep added: “I know the game plan. I know the way we want to play.Pep Guardiola preview Man City’s tasty clash against Leyton Orient“I still have doubts for the selection, because I have injuries and people come back.“But at the same time, I’m so optimistic and calm. We’ll see what happens.“Of course it would be good to continue for the club, for the prestige to win this competition.”Pep knows it will be “impossible” to keep Real Madrid’s Fab Four quiet for both legs of their heavyweight European eliminator.But City must stop Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham from being too influential if they are to make the last-16 of the Champions League.Guardiola admitted: “All four are exceptional. It’s impossible — 90 minutes, 180 minutes or 200 minutes if there’s extra time — to control these four players.“How they combine, the ability one against one, how they keep the ball.“We have to reduce their involvement as much as possible. They have the ability to keep it and make extra touches and extra passes.“When that happens,  they can run, they can combine the shortest passes with the moments in behind.”City defender Ruben Dias pointed out the Premier League champions have “guns” of their own in the dressing room such as Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden.And the last two winners of this tournament could hardly know each other any better.FOUR CLASSIC EURO TIESMAN CITY 2 REAL MADRID 12019-20 last 16 – Man City won 4-2 on aggregateLATE strikes from Kevin De Bruyne and Gabriel Jesus completed a 2-1 first-leg comeback win in Madrid, although the pandemic meant City were not able to finish the job — by the same scoreline — until 163 days later.REAL MADRID 3 MAN CITY 12021-22 semi-final – Real Madrid win 6-5 on aggregateFOLLOWING their 4-3 first-leg win, City were cruising into a final against Liverpool when Riyad Mahrez made it 1-0 on the night.But Rodrygo’s injury-time double and Karim Benzema’s extra-time penalty KO’d them.MAN CITY 4 REAL MADRID 02022-23 semi-final – Man City win 5-1 on aggregateTHERE was no stopping City this time and after a 1-1 draw in Madrid, they blew Real away.Bernardo Silva’s double set the tone before late Manuel Akanji and Julian Alvarez goals booked a final spot against Inter Milan.MAN CITY 1 REAL MADRID 12023-24 quarter-finals – 4-4 on aggregate, Real Madrid win 4-3 on pensCITY could not repeat their heroics from the year before as Madrid somehow held out for penalties — despite facing 34 shots on goal.Bernardo and Mateo Kovacic missed from 12 yards and Antonio Rudiger hit the winner.This will be the fifth season in six they have been drawn together — each having gone through twice so far.City have lost just one of eight legs against the Spanish giants.But their defence has struggled to keep clean sheets this season – particularly without the protection usually provided by midfielder Rodri since he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in September.And the addition of French superstar Mbappe to the Madrid sides City have faced in previous years makes their task even harder.Guardiola insisted: “We are going to try to impose our game and be smart, especially in the first leg.“The way you have to play. It’s important to read the tempo. We have to play to get a good result to take to the Bernabeu.”Madrid have their own defensive problems so attack could be the best form of defence for City.Guardiola added: “What we were, what we are — I know perfectly.“But the team has something special, our team. Hopefully, on Tuesday we can prove it.”The return of Dias — who has started only 19 matches in an injury-hit campaign — will be crucial to City’s hopes.And the Portuguese defender, 27, claimed that holders Madrid should be worried too. He said: “Since I’ve been here this is the most ­difficult season.”But even in the most difficult times you can achieve something beautiful.  We know how difficult it will be. But we have loads of guns in the dressing room and just have to use them the right way.”Dias believes City have learned plenty from their previous meetings with Madrid — and felt aggrieved to be knocked out of last April’s quarter-final on penalties.Two years ago, City memorably won 4-0 at the Etihad on their way to a historic Treble.A year before that they were knocked out in a dramatic semi-final in the Spanish capital.Dias added: “When we won the Treble, that feeling in the Bernabeu was important — the understanding of how good we need to be to win this game.“You might think the 4-0 was very easy, but it was a mix of so many things where we needed to be full on our game.“Last year was frustrating because we dominated but weren’t able to score the goals that would have made the difference.“They won’t make it easy for us. We need to do what we do better than ever and fight more than ever because that’s how you win.”Dias is raring to go after a stop-start last few months — having rushed back from injury too soon.He admitted: “It’s been frustrating. In a period like this, in which you want to be next to your family on the pitch.“You help any way you can. One of the ways is to recover as well and as fast as you can.“You need to be wise with the comeback, the schedule is ruthless. READ MORE SUN STORIESYou’re at a point when the train is going in the season and you need to catch that train.”If Dias helps City win tonight, it would be just the ticket. More

    • 188 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Women’s football star ‘violates rival’s intimacy’ with sick gesture and vile comment during on-pitch scuffle

      by

      A SPANISH woman footballer is at the centre of a storm after touching a rival’s private parts and appearing to say ‘Have you got a ‘d**k?’ during a brief pitch bust-up.TV cameras clearly picked up the moment Barcelona defender Mapi Leon deliberately touched Espanyol footballer Daniela Caracas’ genitals as the alleged sex assault victim prepared to defend a corner during a fiercely-contested derby match yesterday.Barcelona’s Mapi Leon clashed with Daniela CaracasCredit: Liga F via X formerly TwitterShe appeared to reach and touch Caracas below the beltlineCredit: Liga F via X formerly TwitterEspanyol have slammed the Barcelona starCredit: RexSpanish media and social media amateur lip readers reported the slur 29-year-old Leon, capped more than 50 times by her national team, fired off at Colombian-born Caracas during a brief push-and-shove struggle before and after the extraordinary crotch grab seemed to be ‘Tienes picha?The offensive expression would translate into English as ‘Have you got a d**k?’Barcelona’s city rivals Espanyol today released an official statement criticising Mapi Leon’s actions and vowing to support Daniela if she decided to press charges.The Catalan club said in a statement, calling Mapi Leon by her full name Maria Pilar Leon: “We would like to express our total discontent and condemnation of the events that took place yesterday during the derby match between RCD Espanyol and Barcelona FC at the Dani Jarque stadium.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“It is an action that we consider unacceptable and that should not go unnoticed.“During the match, the FC Barcelona player María Pilar Leon, in the middle of a struggle with our player, Daniela Caracas, made a gesture that violated the player’s intimacy.“At the time Daniela was unable to react because of the impact caused by the situation.“Later on when she assimilated what happened she became aware of the seriousness of the gesture, but chose not to react angrily to avoid a disciplinary sanction and harm the team.Most read in Football“In addition to what happened on the pitch, there has been a regrettable reaction on social media, where our player has been the target of insults from hundreds of profiles.“We are concerned that, instead of focusing on the act itself, part of the media attention has been diverted to other issues unrelated to its seriousness.Football teams that controversially changed their badge“RCD Espanyol defends our player and condemns any act that threatens the integrity of the players on the pitch.“We firmly believe in respect and sportsmanship as fundamental values in football and we hope that this type of situation will be treated with the seriousness it deserves.“Furthermore, we have made the club’s legal services available to our player should she wish to take legal action.“Likewise, as RCD Espanyol has done on previous occasions, we wish to express our rejection of any form of violence, whether physical or verbal in the world of football.“Sport should be a place of respect and coexistence, and we condemn any attitude that encourages hatred or aggression on and off the pitch.”Barcelona and the player at the centre of the controversy have not yet offered any official reaction.Espanyol lost 2-0 to the league leaders, with a 73rd-minute goal from Graham Hansen and another three minutes later by Salma Paralluelo.Mapi Leon was one of the footballers who said she didn’t want to play for her country again unless there were structural changes in the Spanish FA following the scandal unleashed by the kiss Luis Rubiales gave Jenni Hermoso after the 2023 women’s World Cup and his initial refusal to resign.The former Spanish FA president is currently on trial for sexual assault and coercion over the kiss Jenni says was unwanted.Critics were accusing Mapi Leon of double standards today.One said: “This is really serious. I hope it finishes in a court of law.”Another said: “I hope they take measures like they did with Rubiales.“A sexual assault is where there’s no consent right?”READ MORE SUN STORIESVinnie Jones famously squeezed Paul Gascoigne’s lunchbox during Wimbledon’s 0-0 draw with Newcastle in February 1988.It was caught on camera and went on to become one of the most iconic photographs in the history of English football. More