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    Arsenal vs Newcastle: Gunners host Eddie Howe’s side in massive Premier League clash – team news, kick-off time

    ARSENAL return to the Emirates Stadium on Saturday to host Newcastle in another crucial Premier League clash.The Gunners suffered a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Porto on Wednesday following a last-minute goal from Galeno.
    Arsenal and Newcastle go head-to-head again this weekendCredit: Getty
    However, they will look to get back to winning ways against Eddie Howe’s Champions League-chasing Magpies.
    Mikel Arteta and his side felt aggrieved following their 1-0 defeat to Newcastle in November.
    Anthony Gordon’s goal was controversially given following a lengthy VAR check that looked at three separate incidents.
    Arteta was investigated following his post-match comments but officials later cleared him.

    The Spaniard could now be approaching Saturday’s game with revenge in mind.
    Team news
    Fabio Vieira returned to the Arsenal squad on Wednesday following an extended period out with a groin injury, so he could be in contention to play.
    Gabriel Jesus, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Takehiro Tomiyasu remain doubts.
    Fabio Vieira could return for ArsenalCredit: Getty
    Meanwhile, Newcastle have a lengthy injury list.
    Most read in Football
    Callum Wilson is set for a long spell on the sidelines with a pectoral injury.
    Aleksandr Isak could also miss out with a groin issue.
    Supercomputer reveals Arsenal’s chances of winning Champions League after toothless Porto loss without a shot on target
    Joe Willock and Fabian Schar could be back in contention following their respective injury spells.
    But Nick Pope, Matt Targett, Joelinton and Elliot Anderson remain unavailable.
    Who will be the star players?
    Bukayo Saka added two goals to his Premier League tally against Burnley last weekend.
    He now has 12 goals and seven assists in 24 league appearances this season.
    Legendary Arsenal manager Arsene Wegner hailed him as “world class” this week.
    The Frenchman told beIN SPORTS: “He is top level. He is top level because he is the type of player who makes differences at that level of game and has a great future.
    “He is a top person as well. Humble, wants to learn, wants to work, so his career will now be decided by how much he wants to continue to improve, but he is certainly one of the three best English players. I would say he is world-class.”
    Bukayo Saka has continued to be a key player for Arsenal this season
    Bruno Guimaraes has been one of Newcastle’s most consistent players
    Bruno Guimaraes has been one of Newcastle’s stand-out players so far this season.
    The midfielder has registered seven goal contributions in 24 games since the start of the campaign.
    He is also yet to be significantly impacted by injury.
    Guimaraes ruffled some feathers last time he came up against Arsenal, with some fans convinced he should’ve been sent off for an elbow on Jorginho.
    What has been said?
    Following last weekend’s impressive win over Burnley, Arteta said: “We are showing a high efficiency at the moment in front of goal, and you see especially the purpose, the way we’re playing at.
    “We always want to play forward and be a threat, and the players up front, they feel really connected at the moment. That’s a different story because it gives us much more tranquillity, especially to finish the games off.”
    Mikel Arteta wants his team to continue their impressive Premier League run of formCredit: Alamy
    Meanwhile, following last week’s 2-2 draw with Bournemouth, Howe admitted: “I’m well aware and I think people who watch us regularly are aware, that we’re not at full power at the moment, we’re not at our fluent best but I think the reasons for that are obvious.
    “We are a bit disjointed. We had players playing today who maybe wouldn’t be in their best positions given a free hand. But everyone is giving as much as they can to get consistent results.
    “We have to look at the positives. It’s another game unbeaten for us, we’re getting points where we went through a spell when we weren’t.”
    When is Arsenal vs Newcastle?

    Arsenal’s clash with Newcastle will take place on Saturday, February 24.
    The game will kick off at 8pm GMT.
    Arsenal vs Newcastle will be held at Emirates Stadium.

    What channel is it on and can it be live streamed?

    Arsenal vs Newcastle will be shown live on TNT Sports in the UK.
    You can live stream the action from the Discovery+ app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.

    READ MORE SUN STORIES
    Odds

    Arsenal – 4/11
    Draw – 4/1
    Newcastle – 7/1

    *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes and correct at time of publication. More

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    Man Utd vs Fulham: Erik ten Hag’s side look to continue superb winning form in Premier League as they host Cottagers

    MANCHESTER UNITED host Fulham in a huge Premier League clash on Saturday afternoon.Erik ten Hag’s side have been in superb form of late as they continue to chase down a Champions League spot.
    Rasmus Hojlund’s quick-fire double secured a 2-1 win for Manchester United against LutonCredit: GETTY
    Rodrigo Muniz was on the scoresheet for Fulham last weekendCredit: GETTY
    The Red Devils got the better of Luton Town last time out – running out 2-1 winners at Kenilworth Road.
    Rasmus Hojlund’s quick-fire double was enough to edge a frantic Premier League clash with the Hatters.
    Elsewhere Fulham are sitting fairly comfortably in mid-table, nine points clear of the bottom three.
    They are looking to get back to winning ways, and their season back on track for a top-half finish.
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    Last time out, Marco Silva’s side were beaten by 2-1 at home to Aston Villa, with Ollie Watkins bagging a brace at Craven Cottage.
    United currently sit sixth, just three points behind Tottenham and five points behind Unai Emery’s men.
    However, they remain fairly inconsistent at Old Trafford with only five teams having scored fewer league goals at home.
    But the Cottagers are one of the Prem’s tamest sides away on their travels, with just a single away win all season and zero in 2024.
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    What is their form like?
    Fulham have recorded one victory since their 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in the FA Cup fourth round.
    Marco Silva’s men ran out 3-1 winners over Bournemouth at home before their defeat to Villa.
    Before that victory, Fulham were held to two successive draws against relegation strugglers Everton and Burnley.
    Erik ten Hag’s side are undefeated in their last seven games in all competitions.
    United have recorded four consecutive league wins, and scored 11 goals across those fixtures.
    Kobbie Mainoo scored a late grasp winner to win 4-3 at Wolves, before a 3-0 victory over West Ham, and 2-1 away win at Villa Park.
    Team news
    Luke Shaw was withdrawn just before half-time during the 2-1 win at Luton last weekend.
    The England left-back was also taken off with a knock the week before against Aston Villa and is a doubt for Saturday’s clash.
    Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Lisandro Martinez, Mason Mount, Anthony Martial and Tyrell Malacia all remain out.
    Fulham will be without midfield stalwart Joao Palhinha as he misses out through suspension after collecting ten yellow cards.
    The Portugal international has made more tackles than anybody else in the top flight this term and is a vital screen in front of the defence for Marco Silva’s side.
    Raul Jimenez will be unavailable with a thigh injury, while Chelsea loanee Armando Broja could return from illness.
    Star players
    Hojlund proved invaluable to United in his last six games
    United forward Hojlund is in red hot form and will be the biggest threat Fulham face going forward.
    Hojlund, 21, now has 14 goals in all competitions, notching all seven of his Premier League goals in his last six outings.
    His goal inside 37 seconds at Luton saw a Prem record smashed.
    He became the youngest ever player to score in six consecutive league games.
    Pereira will be the one to watch for the visitors
    As he normally is, Pereira will be the main problem the Red Devils need to look out for.
    The Belgian midfielder’s electric pace and vision in the final third means he can turn any moment into a dangerous situation.
    The former United man will likely step up to punish his former side.
    After all, this will be a necessity in Palhinha’s absence.
    Predicted line-ups
    Here’s how we think United will line up
    Here’s how we think the away side will line up
    SunSport prediction
    Fulham haven’t beaten United since 2009, with only two draws since 2014.
    Also, other than the most recent meeting between the two, this fixture has had both teams on the scoresheet in every game since 2019.
    But Fulham have been unlucky, suffering a stoppage time goal from Bruno Fernandes in their 1-0 defeat in the reverse fixture.
    United are returning to last season’s goal scoring form, but remain vulnerable at the back with a makeshift defence again likely on the weekend.
    United 2-1 Fulham
    When is Man Utd vs Fulham?

    Man Utd vs Fulham will take place on Saturday, February 24.
    Kick off will be at 3pm GMT.
    Old Trafford will host.

    What TV channel is Man Utd vs Fulham on and can it be live streamed?

    Man Utd vs Fulham will not be broadcast on live TV in the UK.
    This is due to the 3pm blackout.
    However, SunSport will have minute-by-minute coverage of the huge match at Old Trafford.

    What are the odds?
    Match result
    READ MORE SUN STORIES

    Man Utd – 1/2
    Draw – 7/2
    Fulham – 9/2

    *Odds courtesy of Paddy Power and are correct at the time of publication. More

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    Porto vs Arsenal – Champions League last-16: Gunners look to continue good form as they face Portuguese giants

    ARSENAL travel to Portuguese giants Porto for the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.The Gunners have been in superb form of late, winning their last five games and scoring 21 goals in the process.
    Arsenal have scored 11 goals in their last two gamesCredit: ALAMY
    Porto beat Estrela Amadora 2-0 last time outCredit: GETTY
    Arsenal are flying high in the Premier League and are two points off Liverpool at the top of the tree.
    Mikel Arteta’s men booked their spot in the knockout stages of the Champions League after finishing 1st in Group B with 13 points from a possible 18.
    Elsewhere, Porto finished runner-up to Barcelona in Group H to secure their place in the last-16.
    However, the Portuguese giants have had an underwhelming season domestically and are currently 3rd in Liga Portugal.
    READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
    When is Porto vs Arsenal?

    Porto vs Arsenal will take place on Wednesday, February 21.
    Kick off will be at 8pm.
    The Estadio do Dragao will host.

    What TV channel is Porto vs Arsenal on and can it be live streamed?

    Porto vs Arsenal will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1.
    TNT Sports customers can live stream the match on discovery+.
    Alternatively, you can keep up to date with all the action by following SunSport’s live blog.

    Team news
    The hosts will be without centre-back Zaidu Sanusi after he sustained a serious injury in his first game back from Afcon.
    Striker Mehdi Taremi could return to the starting line-up after being left on the bench against Estrela da Amadora.
    Most read in Champions League
    The 31-year-old has reportedly agreed to join Inter Milan on a free transfer in the summer.
    For Arsenal, Fabio Vieira could return to action after having surgery to face his former side in his home country.
    Oleksandr Zinchenko, Gabriel Jesus and Takehiro Tomiyasu could all play a part in Porto following their respective injury layoffs.
    Thomas Partey, Emile Smith Rowe and Jurrien Timber remain all remain out.
    What are the odds?
    Match result

    Porto – 21/5
    Draw – 27/10
    Arsenal – 4/6

    *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes and are correct at the time of publication. More

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    Man City vs Chelsea preview: Blues look to stop the Treble winners’ scintillating streak in a Premier League blockbuster

    ALL eyes will be on the Etihad this weekend as Treble winners Manchester City host Chelsea in a Super Saturday special – and it could go either way.Pep Guardiola’s men find themselves on a blistering winning run having won ELEVEN consecutive matches in all competitions.
    Man City are on an incredible run of formCredit: PA
    Chelsea left it late to beat Crystal PalaceCredit: Alamy
    And Bernardo Silva’s flick followed by Phil Foden’s late strike kept City’s streak alive as they ran out 3-1 winners in a gruelling Champions League League last 16 first leg clash against Copenhagen.
    Elsewhere, life is starting to look a lot better for Mauricio Pochettino as his Chelsea side goes into this game off back-to-back 3-1 triumphs against Aston Villa and Crystal Palace.
    Furthermore, the Blues should feel well-rested after not having to participate in any European action this week.
    But Chelsea will need to dig deep if they are to take three Premier League points from City – something which they have failed to achieve in their last five attempts.
    Read more on Chelsea
    When is Man City vs Chelsea?

    Manchester City and Chelsea’s mouthwatering match will take place on Saturday, February 17.
    It is scheduled to get underway at 5:30pm in the UK.
    The Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City is the scheduled arena for this huge encounter and it can host approximately 53,400 fans.
    Cole Palmer’s stoppage-time penalty earned Chelsea a draw in a 4-4 thriller when the sides last met in November 2023.

    What TV channel is it on can it be live streamed?

    Manchester City vs Chelsea will be broadcast LIVE on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League in the UK.
    Coverage is expected to commence from 5pm GMT on both channels – 30 minutes before kick-off.
    Fans can stream the action online through NOW TV.
    Alternatively, SunSport will have minute-by-minute coverage of the entire match.

    What is the team news?
    Manchester City’s win against Copenhagen was overshadowed by a double injury blow to Jack Grealish (groin) and Bernardo Silva (ankle).
    Josko Gvardiol’s knock is reportedly set to keep him out until mid-March, while Mateo Kovacic’s muscular injury will be assessed before Saturday’s blockbuster.
    Most read in Football
    Elsewhere, Mauricio Pochettino will be hoping to get some key names back for the trip to the Etihad.
    But as it stands; Benoit Badiashile (muscle), Reece James (hamstring), Lesley Ugochukwu (muscle), Marc Cucurella (ankle), Robert Sanchez (knee), Rome Lavia (thigh), Thiago Silva  (groin), and Wesley Fofana (ACL) are all huge doubts for the match. 
    What are the odds?

    Man City to win 1/3
    Draw 9/2
    Chelsea to win 7/1

    *Odds courtesy of Paddy Power are correct at time of publication  More

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    Burnley vs Arsenal: Mikel Arteta’s Gunners eye five straight wins as they travel to Premier League strugglers

    ARSENAL travel to Premier League strugglers Burnley on Saturday afternoon.The Gunners have been in fantastic form of late, scoring 16 goals in their last four games.
    Arsenal beat West Ham 6-0 last time outCredit: GETTY
    Burnley lost 3-1 at Liverpool last weekendCredit: GETTY
    Last time out, Arsenal thrashed London rivals West Ham 6-0 on their own patch as Mikel Arteta’s side put themselves firmly in the title race.
    The Gunners are aiming to go one better than last campaign and claim their first Premier League title since the 2003/04 season.
    Meanwhile, Vincent Kompany’s Burnley haven’t lived up to expectations on their return to the top flight and are in a dogfight to stay in the league.
    The Clarets are seven points from safety and are without a win since before Christmas.
    READ MORE IN ARSENAL
    When is Burnley vs Arsenal?

    Burnley vs Arsenal will take place on Saturday, February 17.
    Kick off will be at 3pm GMT.
    Turf Moor will host.

    What TV channel is Burnley vs Arsenal on and can it be live streamed?

    Burnley vs Arsenal will not be broadcast on live TV in the UK.
    This is due to the 3pm blackout rule.
    You can keep up to date with all the action from Turf Moor by following SunSport’s live blog.

    Team news
    For Burnley, centre-back Jordan Beyer could return after missing the last four games with a thigh injury.
    Long-term absentees Nathan Redmond and Luca Koleosho will remain unavailable.
    Most read in Football
    Mikel Arteta will be hoping Jorginho has fully recovered from a foot injury after he was left on the bench for the 6-0 win at West Ham.
    Takehiro Tomiyasu returned from the Asian Cup with a slight problem but is expected to be available for the trip to Burnley.
    Oleksandr Zinchenko, Gabriel Jesus and Emile Smith Rowe are all doubts for Saturday’s match.
    What are the odds?
    Match result

    Burnley – 8/1
    Draw – 9/2
    Arsenal – 2/7

    *Odds courtesy of Paddy Power and are correct at the time of publication. More

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    Luton vs Man Utd: Ten Hag’s side look to continue good Premier League form against relegation-threatened Hatters

    MANCHESTER UNITED travel to London to face Luton Town on Sunday afternoon.United will be looking to continue their momentum following their dramatic 2-1 away win over Aston Villa.
    Rasmus Hojlund and Scott McTominay were on the scoresheet against Aston VillaCredit: GETTY
    Luton were beaten 3-1 by Sheffield United last time outCredit: GETTY
    Erik Ten Hag’s side has been on a good run of results in the Premier League recently, having won three in the last four games.
    Luton Town come into the game one point above the relegation zone after they lost 3-1 at home to Sheffield United last time out.
    Despite their home defeat, the Hatters have been known to give the top six sides tough games on their own patch, running close games against the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea.
    When is Luton vs Man Utd?

    Luton Town vs Manchester United will take place on Sunday, 18th February.
    Kick off will be at 4.30pm GMT.
    Kenilworth Road will host the fixture.

    READ MORE IN MAN UTD
    What TV channel is Luton vs Man Utd on and can it be live streamed?

    Luton Town vs Manchester United will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event/ Premier League.
    Sky Sports customers can live stream the match via the NOW app.
    Alternatively, you can follow SunSport’s live blog to keep up to date with all the action from Kenilworth Road.

    Team news
    Luke Shaw is an injury concern for United after coming off at half-time at Villa Park last Sunday.
    The likes of Lisandro Martinez, Mason Mount, Anthony Martial, Tyrell Malacia, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are long-term absentees.
    For Luton, Mads Andersen and Marvelous Nakamba are unavailable for this fixture.
    Most read in Football
    New January signing Daiki Hashioka could feature for the first time for the Hatters this weekend.
    What are the odds?
    Match result

    Luton – 3/1
    Draw – 14/5
    Man Utd – 3/4

    *Odds courtesy of Paddy Power and are correct at the time of publication. More

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    Crystal Palace vs Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Connor Gallagher scores TWICE against ex-club as Blues come from behind to win

    CONOR GALLAGHER scored twice against his former club as Chelsea came from behind to beat Crystal Palace 3-1.Chelsea skipper Gallagher had not scored in the Premier League this season but made it three from two after his strike in the FA Cup against Aston Villa last week.
    Jefferson Lerma unleashed a thunderbolt to put Crystal Palace ahead in the first-half – it was also his first goal for the club.
    After an awful first 45 the Blues hit back immediately after the break, Gallagher volleying home a Malo Gusto cross.
    Gallagher then scored the vital goal bang on 90 minutes before Enzo Fernandez sealed the deal with a breakaway goal.

    Match result: Crystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea
    Crystal Palace XI: Henderson, Munoz, Andersen, Richards, Mitchell, Lerma, Wharton, Ayew, Hughes, Franca, Mateta.
    Chelsea XI: Petrovic, Gusto, Disasi, Chilwell, Caicedo, Enzo, Gallagher, Madueke, Jackson, Palmer.

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    Victory papers over cracks for Blues
    Chelsea still have a lot to work on to get to where they want to be.
    Victories against sides in the bottom half of the table are much needed but the true test of the capabilities of this team will be when facing tougher opposition.
    With games against Man City, Tottenham and Liverpool coming up Pochettino will want to see a lot more from his side.
    Copy linkCopiedBig win for Pochettino’s men
    Mauricio Pochettino will breath a sigh of relief with that result.
    The three points moves them up to tenth in the table, two points behind Newcastle in seventh spot.
    Chelsea have a tough run of fixtures coming up over the next five games.

    Copy linkCopiedConor comes back to haunt Palace
    Conor Gallagher put in a man of the match performance with his second half brace for Chelsea.
    The player who spent a season out on loan at Crystal Palace, had the last laugh at Selhurst Park.
    You could see how much scoring meant to him as he celebrated wildly, despite his previous connections to The Eagles.

    Copy linkCopiedFT: Crystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea
    A brace from Conor Gallagher takes The Blues to victory.
    Enzo Fernandez added the icing to the cake deep into added time.
    Pochettino will be pleased with his side’s second half display.

    Copy linkCopiedFT: Crystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea
    The referee brings the game to an end with an away win.
    Fortunately for Hodgson there are no boos from the home fans as they seem to have already gone home.
    Cruel defeat for The Eagles, conceding so late on.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea
    90+6. Chelsea continue to come forward looking for more.
    The ball is played to Nkunku in the box who swivels and looks to get a shot away.
    His effort deflects away for a corner with the home ends looking empty at Selhurst Park now.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea
    90+4. As Palace send players forward trying to get an equaliser, they get caught out on the counter attack once again.
    Palmer runs into acres of space before threading a ball into the path of Fernandez.
    He lifts the ball into the net, beating Henderson at his near post.
    Credit: Reuters
    Copy linkCopiedGoal – Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea)
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-2 Chelsea
    90+2. Sterling sets Palmer away down the right wing.
    He cuts inside and holds the ball up, waiting for some support and spots Gallagher just inside the box.
    Gallagher hits the ball first time and into the bottom corner of the goal.
    Copy linkCopiedGoal – Conor Gallagher (Chelsea)
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    90. It is amazing how many free kicks are given for a player kicking the boot of an opponent.
    Both sides are looking to find a late winner here.
    Palace come forward but a loose pass gifts the ball back to the visitors to get on the counter attack.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    88. Chelsea look more disjointed in defence since the changes.
    When Crystal Palace come forward, they look like they can get something out of The Blues.
    We are almost at last chance saloon time now.
    Credit: AFP
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    86. Eduoard strides forward and lays it into the path of Mateta.
    Colwill is look to get to the ball before him but as the Palace striker looks to get to it first, he stands on the foot of the defender.
    The referee awards The Blues a freekick.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    84. What a chance for Chelsea to win the game.
    Palmer plays a sublime ball through The Eagles’ defence to Sterling.
    He takes a touch before getting a shot away but takes too long on the ball and allows the Palace defence to close him down.
    Eduoard comes on for Franca for the hosts.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    82. You would have to say that a goal for either side now wins this game.
    It does not feel there would be enough time for a reply should Crystal Palace or Chelsea concede now.
    Pochettino’s side look the more likely to get that winning goal.
    Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Jack Rosser at Selhurst Park
    Chelsea have such an array of attacking talent on the pitch, now joined by Sterling, but are still struggling open up big gaps to cause Palace real problems.
    Those in front of the Eagles defence are working double time to keep it tight, with Wharton – on his full debut – particularly impressive.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    80. Ahamada comes on for Hughes.
    Chelsea bring Sterling on for Jackson.
    Both managers looking to freshen things up in the final stages of this game.
    Credit: Reuters
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    78. As we enter the final fifteen minutes of the game, it is difficult to call a winner in this game.
    Chelsea are still seeing more possession but The Eagles look dangerous on the break.
    Palmer picks the ball up and runs into the box, checking onto his left foot and getting a shot away.
    It is straight at Henderson and a routine save for the keeper.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    76. Chance for Crystal Palace.
    Franca picks the ball up in the middle and strides towards goal.
    As he gets near the edge of the box he fires off a shot but Petrovic is able to parry the ball back out.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    74. When Palace do venture forward, they seem to lack options in the box.
    All too often crosses are easily cleared by the Chelsea defence.
    Eduoard seems to be warming up on the touchline, maybe Roy Hodgson is thinking the same thing.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    72. Gusto is getting forward more in this half and linking up well with Palmer on the right flank.
    His cross towards Nkunku sees Andersen tower over him and win the header.
    Chelsea appeal for a penalty but the referee is not interested at all.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    70. Gallagher whips a ball into the box which finds Jackson.
    His glancing header is not troubling the keeper or the goal.
    Has to go down as a chance for the Chelsea forward.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    68. The one thing is with this Chelsea team, when the ball is played into them, they always seem to take a touch before looking to get the ball forward.
    One touch football can open teams up, not something that Pochettino’s side seem to employ.
    The game is finely poised now, a draw does neither team any favours.
    Credit: Reuters
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    66. One thing is for sure, since the goal it would appear that somebody has put ten pence in the Chelsea fans.
    On the other hand, the home fans have gone a bit quiet.
    That is, apart from the constant drum being played.
    I wonder who the first person was to decide that taking a drum or trumpet to a game was the way forward.
    Copy linkCopiedCrystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea
    64. Palmer seems to be playing in a wider position now with Nkunku on the pitch.
    He looks far more effective on the right wing and is seeing a lot more of the ball.
    Palace counter and Lerma finds Ayew, looking to slot it in for Munoz.
    The full back looks to cut it back from the byline but Petrovic collects.
    Copy linkCopied More

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    Nigeria vs Ivory Coast LIVE RESULT: Afcon final latest – Haller WINS it for the hosts as Elephants fight from goal down

    SEBASTIEN HALLER and Franck Kessie have fired hosts Ivory Coast to the Africa Cup of Nations trophy as the hosts battled from a goal down to win the game.The Super Eagles took the lead in the first-half after Super Eagles skipper William Troost-Ekong powered home a close range header.
    But Kessie fired home from close range to draw the Elephants, who sacked their manager during the group stage, level.
    Former West Ham striker Haller – who had a six-month fight with cancer – then completed a fairy tale ending, poking home a cross to earn the hosts the Afcon title.

    Match result: Nigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
    Nigeria XI: Nwabali, Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Aina, Onyeka, Iwobi, Sanusi, Chukwueze, Lookman, Osimhen.
    Ivory Coast XI: Fofana, Aurier, Kossounou, Ndicka, Konan, Kessie, Seri, Fofana, Gradel, Haller, Adingra.

    Follow all the action from the massive final in our live blog below…
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    Match report, Jon West:
    SEBASTIEN HALLER was the comeback hero as the Ivory Coast lifted the Africa Nations Cup in front of their own fans.
    Nigeria scored first in the thriller on Sunday night.
    But ex-West Ham forward Haller, now at Borussia Dortmund, netted a winner for 2-1 nine minutes from time to complete a remarkable personal journey as well.
    Haller, 29, had his career put on hold by cancer but returned to triumph on the continent’s biggest stage.
    Ivory Coast, who only just scraped through the group stage, bossed the opening exchanges.
    Veteran Max Gradel went close with an overhead kick into the side-netting.
    Read the rest of the match report, here….
    Copy linkCopiedSunSport MOTM:
    There were some incredible performances out there for Ivory Coast tonight.
    Jean-Michael Seri ran the show in midfield, and controlled the game absolutely brilliantly.
    Sebastian Haller completed his fairy-tale story and scored the winning goal, as well as proving a handful for the Nigerian defence throughout.
    Odilon Kossounou was exceptional at centre-half, as he has been for Bayer Leverkusen all season too.
    But the SunSport Man of the Match goes to Simon Adingra.
    I told you before the game kicked off that he was the young player to watch, and he showed his immense potential once again tonight.
    Brighton have got a gem on their hands that caused no end of problems for Ola Aina, and he picked up two assists to boot too.
    What a performance. Simon Adingra take a bow.
    Simon Adingra was the star of the show in the AFCON finalCredit: Reuters
    Copy linkCopiedNever give up
    Let Sebastian Haller’s story be one that inspires you all.
    Never. Give. Up.
    Sebastian Haller has an inspiring story to shareCredit: X – @FabrizioRomano
    Copy linkCopiedNew manager bounce?
    It looked like bad news for Ivory Coast when they removed incumbent manager Jean-Louis Gasset and replaced him with his assistant, Emerse Fae as interim head coach.
    But it turned out to be the best possible decision they could have made…
    Fae was able to immediately benefit from Afcon’s recent expansion from a 16-team tournament to a 24 team event, seeing his side qualify for the round of 16 as one of the best performing third place group stage teams.
    They had a few dramatic games in the RO16 and quarter-finals, with both going to extra-time, but the “zombie” team were able to reach the final in a more straight forward manner on Wednesday, beating DR Congo 1-0 courtesy of a Sebastien Haller strike.
    They then took it all the way tonight, overturning a one goal deficit to win 2-1 thanks to another bit of brilliance by Mr. Haller.
    What a story.
    Emerse Fae (pictured) replaced Jean-Louis Gasset mid tournamentCredit: Reuters
    Copy linkCopiedHeroic Haller!
    What a fairy-tale story that is.
    In July 2022 Sebastian Haller was diagnosed with testicular cancer, less than two years later he has scored the winner to make his country champions of Africa.
    If was a deft flick at the near post, following excellent work by Simon Adingra, which ended up in the top right corner.
    What a game, what a goal, what a story.
    That is the beauty of the African Cup of Nations.
    Sebastian Haller was the hero for Ivory CoastCredit: Reuters
    Copy linkCopiedFULL TIME! Nigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
    THEY HAVE DONE IT. IVORY COAST ARE AFRICAN CUP OF NATIONS CHAMPIONS!
    ABIDJAN ERUPTS!
    Abidjan erupts as Ivory Coast win the African Cup of NationsCredit: Reuters
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
    90+6. It’s lumped forward again and again by Nigeria, still to no avail.
    They need to get their foot on the ball, but Ivory Coast are doing so well to prevent them from doing so.
    Ivory Coast can sense it…
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
    90+3. The magnificent Jean-Michael Seri comes off to be replaced by Lazare Amani.
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
    90. There has been SEVEN minutes added on at the end of the ninety here.
    Nigeria are getting desperate.
    Jean Krasso is on for the heroic Haller, and Fofana is replaced by Sangare.
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
    87. There is still time for Nigeria here, who look like they are finally going to go for it in this game.
    There are two more changes for Nigeria in the dying moments, as forwards Terem Moffi and Joe Aribo are on for Frank Onyeka and Zaidu Sanusi.
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
    82. What a finish that is by Sebastian Haller, a toe on the cross that flew into the top right corner.
    That could just be the fairy-tale ending to this story.
    Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLLL! Nigeria 1-2 Ivory Coast
    IVORY COAST TAKE THE LEAD, IT’S SEBASTIAN HALLER!
    Simon Adingra beats Ola Aina and crosses for Sebastian Haller to tap home! The Abidjan crowd is going WILD!
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
    78. Another chance for the players to catch a breather and some water as Osimhen goes down.
    Kelechi Iheanacho replaces Ademola Lookman and Alhassan Yusuf comes on for Alex Iwobi.
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
    75. Time for the second cooling break, with just 15 minutes plus stoppages to go.
    Copy linkCopiedSO CLOSE! Nigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
    74. That was almost it, that was almost the moment for Sebastian Haller and Ivory Coast.
    A cross is put into the middle for Simon Adingra, who heads it across goal for Sebastian Haller to attempt a bicycle kick.
    It floats just wide of the top corner, but we have seen him do that before.
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
    72. Adingra continues to tear up the left hand side for Ivory Coast, and the pressure is really starting to build.
    Osimhen cuts a very frustrated figure.
    Copy linkCopiedSUBS! Nigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
    70. Oumar Diakite is on for Max Gradel, who has been excellent so far.
    Wilfried Singo is on to replace Serge Aurier.
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
    67. Nigeria have a free kick in the attacking half, taken by Lookman into Troost-Ekong once more.
    It is a free header, but it floats over the crossbar.
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
    65. Only once in the previous ten renditions have we seen two goals in an AFCON final.
    Victor Osimhen is now pleading with his teammates to step forward and move the ball forward.
    Ivory Coast feel that they can take advantage of the moment here and get another.
    Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLLL! Nigeria 1-1 Ivory Coast
    63. IVORY COAST LEVEL THE SCORING!
    It’s Kessie from the corner!
    Simon Adingra whips the ball in perfectly, for Kessie to head into the ground and into the net!
    That is what they have deserved, and Didier Drogba leads the celebrations for the Cote d’Ivoire faithful!
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-0 Ivory Coast
    62. Ivory Coast really putting on the pressure here.
    A diving header from Kessie is saved, and then a long shot from Kossounou leads to a corner for the hosts.
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-0 Ivory Coast
    60. Onyeka gives away another foul, on Kessie this time.
    Seri lashes a shot from distance following a lovely bit of skill, but it is wide of the mark.
    Copy linkCopiedSUB! Nigeria 1-0 Ivory Coast
    57. Excellent midfield play from Jean Michael Seri, who holds off Victor Osimhen and wins a throw in for his side.
    Samuel Chukwueze is substituted for Moses Simon.
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-0 Ivory Coast
    55. Stanley Nwabali and Serge Aurier are both given yellow cards by the referee following some choice words from both of them.
    The game is back underway and it is no penalty for the challenge on Max Gradel.
    Copy linkCopiedNigeria 1-0 Ivory Coast
    52. One for VAR to look at here as Gradel goes down in the penalty area.
    The referee doesn’t give it, and I must say it doesn’t look like a penalty, it looks like Gradel is trying to buy that one…
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