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      Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock Rovers LIVE RESULT: Guiu bags hat-trick as Blues top Conference League table – updates

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      CHELSEA has thrashed Shamrock Rovers 5-1 in the Conference League.Marc Guiu headed in for the game’s opener on 22 minutes after a defensive howler from the visitors.Minutes later, Markus Poom’s heavily deflected strike equalised for Shamrock Rovers.Guiu got his second of the night before Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall slotted in to make it 3-1 to Chelsea.Right on half-time, Guiu completed a stunning first-half hat-trick with a superb header.Left-back Marc Cucurella added a fifth with an excellent finish just before the hour mark.Chelsea’s 5-1 win over Shamrock Rovers secured their spot at the top of the league phase table.Match result: Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversChelsea team: Jorgensen, Acheampong, Disasi, Veiga, Cucurella, Casadei, Dewsbury-Hall, Madueke, Nkunku, George, GuiuShamrock Rovers team: Pohls, Lopes, Grace, Cleary, Honohan, O’Neill, Poom, Watts, Burns, Farrugia, KennyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from Stamford Bridge with our live blog below…Match reportChelsea were pelted with toilet paper but are on a roll with their best run for eight years.Play was halted for a few minutes in the first half when Christopher Nkunku came under attack from a hail of Kleenex three-ply launched from the away end as he tried to take a corner.But the diversion tactics backfired as boss Enzo Maresca rounded off the first phase of the Conference League with his 100 percent record intact and an eighth successive win in all competitions.That hasn’t been seen since 2016 and is a sign of the marked upturn under the Italian this season.Striker Marc Guiu clinched a hat-trick by half-time to add to two he scored against Kazakhstanis Astana last week.Copy linkCopiedWinning run to continue?Looking at their next five games, you’d have to say they have a great chance to continue racking up victories.Though it is a tough, grueling schedule for all those involved…It’s an away trip to Goodison at the weekend before a home derby with Fulham on Boxing Day.Away trips at Ipswich and Crystal Palace round off the festivities.Copy linkCopiedUnhappy star man tonight…Marc Guiu was given a 10 by Lloyd.But Enzo Maresca admits tonight’s star man is UNHAPPY.Purely as the two names ahead of him in the pecking order – Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku – are also doing well.He told TNT: “Marc is a bit unhappy as Nicolas and Christopher are doing well.”When you’re a nine and another nine is doing well it is a matter of being questioned. It is important that they work hard day-by-day and then they get a chance.”Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – AttackersNONI MADUEKE – 7: His excellent first touch and dazzling feet were on full show, getting the Chelsea fans on their feet a few times. It looked like his good deliveries would get no reward until he provided a classy assist for Marc Guiu’s hat-trick goal.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU  – 7: Was kicked around the pitch like a ragdoll by the visitors, but constantly drove the team forward and won foul upon foul in the first half for The Blues. Worked tirelessly and perhaps didn’t get the reward he deserved after being bought down before Dewsbury-Hall netted Chelsea’s third. Notched an assist as Marc Cucurella finished into the bottom left corner to add a fifth. TYRIQUE GEORGE – 7: Looks a special player on the ball for the Blues, and it’s easy to see why fans are so excited about him for the future. A raw talent who is far from the finished product in terms of his final ball – his brilliant run created the defensive chaos that allowed Marc Guiu to finish with ease. Was unfortunate not to add a goal to his performance after he sent a Shamrock defender for a Guinness at the end of the game before seeing his shot well blocked.MARC GUIU – 10: Scored his fourth, fifth and sixth Europa Conference League goals in six matches to make him the competition’s highest scorer as it stands. The Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper will be seeing Marc Guiu’s face when he closes his eyes for at least the next few weeks. Chelsea fans will be seeing shades of Olivier Giroud’s Europa League run in 2019. Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – MidfieldersCESARE CASADEI – 4: Turned his back on a volleyed effort which he then deflected into his own net with a flick. Andrey Santos on loan at Strasbourg will be an upgrade on him next season. KIERNAN DEWSBURY-HALL – 8: His best game in a Chelsea shirt to date, a tenacious performance saw him battle to win the ball high up and press the Shamrock defense really well. Looked overjoyed to net his first Chelsea goal since joining from Leicester.Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – DefendersSunSport’s Lloyd Canfield runs the rule over tonight’s Chelsea players, starting with those at the back.FILIP JORGENSEN – 7: Didn’t have much at all to do throughout. Commanded his box well, and couldn’t do much about the goal.JOSH ACHAEMPONG – 6: All eyes were on the young defender who has just signed a new long-term deal at Stamford Bridge. He played as a more defensive-minded right-back in Maresca’s system, who looked good in that role.AXEL DISASI – 6: A commanding performance from the French centre-half, he showed maturity in his game, was always an outlet for the Chelsea midfield.RENATO VEIGA – 6: A very solid performance from Chelsea’s number 40.  Unpolished, but physically strong and composed on the ball – this tournament should prove brilliant for him in a blue shirt.MARC CUCURELLA – 8: Acted as a leader inverting into midfield for Chelsea, mostly playing as the left-sided number 10. Scored a classy right-footed goal into the bottom left corner to cap off a great performance.Copy linkCopiedEnzo speaksEnzo Maresca admits being ‘very happy’ with the performance from his young side tonight as they swept away Shamrock Rovers.He told TNT Sports: “I am very happy with the performances and results. In these kind of games, it is easy not to do. They showed how professional they are and this is the right way.”Since we started we have tried to share minutes – tonight was for young players. Josh Acheampong and Tyrique George are still very young, but we are very happy with them.”In these kind of games it is easy not to do and have the right performance, but they know if they don’t work properly they are not going to play.”Copy linkCopiedSome runIt’s now 11 games unbeaten in all competitions for Chelsea after tonight as they continue to roll on nicely.More impressively, as Andy pointed out earlier, it’s now EIGHT wins on the bounce for the Blues.Their best run of form for eight years!Copy linkCopiedChelsea’s European resultsGranted, they’ve not come up against too much.But it’s been a really good campaign up until now for Chelsea’s second string.Chelsea 4-2 GentPanathanaikos 1-4 ChelseaChelsea 8-0 NoahHeidenheim 0-2 ChelseaAstana 1-3 ChelseaChelsea 5-1 ShamrockCopy linkCopiedMore from KDHOn his goal, Dewsbury-Hall added: “That is what the gaffer wants, he wants the attacking midfielders to sniff out opportunities.”I am happy to get another one.”Copy linkCopiedTop scorersIt looked set to be a Chelsea man at the top of the scoring charts with Christopher Nkunku in a three-way dead heat before kick-off.This has been his competition and it looked like he had a huge chance to top the standings.But his team-mate MARC GUIU has pipped him to the post with his hat-trick tonight!Three Blues players amongst the top scorers….6 – MARC GUIU5 – Christopher Nkunku, Krzysztof Piatek, Johnny Kenny, Milos Pantovic, Afimico Pululu4 – Kevin Denkey, Frederik Ihler, Jonathan Ikone, Joao Felix, Matheus AiasCopy linkCopied’Good vibes’Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall says playing in this competition is helping ‘relieve’ the pressures of Premier League football and giving fringe players a chance to shine.He told TNT: “Another good night at the Bridge.”A lot of people will say we are big favourites and honestly, we probably are, but in football it is not easy to keep winning.”Six wins out of six is pretty good.”This tournament is relieving a lot of pressure for some of the people who play in the Premier league and it’s a chance for young academy lads to make their debuts.”It is a good vibe at the moment.”Copy linkCopiedMatch statsOne final look at tonight’s stats, with Chelsea registering five goals, from ten shots on target, from 20 shots in total.A nice piece of symmetry there and Enzo Maresca will be delighted with his fringe players for the work they put in.They registered over 3x as many completed passes as the visitors, with the possession hitting over 80% at one stage before the substitutions in the second half.Copy linkCopiedPerfect sixSix wins from six games.A ridiculous =21 goal difference after scoring 26 goals in those six games.Chelsea miles clear of the opposition heading into the latter stages.As for Shamrock Rovers – ouch. They’ll be absolutely gutted to just miss out on the top six after a stellar run so far.Copy linkCopied’Smiling again’Chelsea hero Joe Cole told TNT Sports: “To come out of the cold be professional and clinical. Young lads make another appearance and Chelsea moved the ball really well.”Everyone at Chelsea is smiling again.”Copy linkCopiedFT!Chelsea round off a perfect Conference League phase in style!CHELSEA 5-1 SHAMROCK ROVERSCopy linkCopied90 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversTwo minutes added.Copy linkCopied89 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversLate chance for Shamrock Rovers to get another one on the night.Cleary’s goal bound attempt is blocked and Burke’s follow-up is well saved by Jorgensen.Copy linkCopiedSecond half view from SunSport’s Andy Dillon at Stamford BridgeChelsea about to clinch their eighth win in a row in all competitions – their best run of form since 2016.A sign of the marked upturn in confidence under head coach Enzo Maresca, although it helps when you face the cannon fodder of the Conference League like they have tonight in Shamrock Rovers.Three of those eight victories have been in Europe so let’s not get carried away with things.Shamrock Rovers, Astana of Kazakhstan and Germans Heidenheim did not present the biggest test for a billion squad Blues squad. Copy linkCopied85 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversDelightful play from George who works space inside the box.He sits the defender down with a fake shot to work it inside onto his left foot and his curled attempt for the far corner is well blocked on the line by a retreating defender.Copy linkCopied83 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversFinal Chelsea change with seven minutes to play, as the final goalscorer left on the park is replaced.OFF: Dewsbury-HallON: Rak-SakyiCopy linkCopied81 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversAnd by the way, it was a foul that was as clear as day.But just outside the box.Copy linkCopied80 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversReally, really nice play from Shamrock to work through the thirds and eventually Burke picks it up 25 yards from goal.A change of pace from him as he darts towards the box before going to ground.The referee makes an odd movement towards him as if he’s about to award a free kick or penalty, or something anyway. But he waves play on.Copy linkCopiedCan’t stop scoringCopy linkCopied72 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversThe game a bit stop-start at the minute as Shamrock Rovers make a couple of quickfire double substitutions.Copy linkCopied More

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      Arsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace LIVE RESULT: Gabriel Jesus hits stunning HAT-TRICK as Gunners reach Carabao Cup semi-final

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      ARSENAL have beaten Crystal Palace 3-2 to reach the Carabao Cup semi-finals.Gabriel Jesus scored a stunning second-half hat-trick as the Gunners fought back in some style after going a goal down early after Jean-Philippe Mateta’s strike.Former Gunner Eddie Nketiah netted a late header to set up a thrilling finale, but the hosts held on and will be in tomorrow’s draw for the final four.Kick-off time: 7.30pm GMTLive stream: NOW TVTV channel: Sky Sports Main EventArsenal starting team: Raya; Partey, Timber, Kiwior, Tierney; Jorginho, Merino, Nwaneri; Sterling, Trossard, JesusPalace starting team: Henderson; Guehi, Chalobah, Lacroix; Kporha, Hughes, Lerma, Mitchell; Sarr, Eze; MatetaFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from the Emirates with our live blog below…Owners with January dilemma to addressThe big question in the Arsenal boardroom over the next couple of weeks will no doubt be the impending transfer window.They will feel that they have backed Mikel Arteta with transfer funds but whether they give him a kitty to strengthen in the middle of the season is another thing.Despite all the signings, they do not seem to have the required depth needed to challenge for silverware on all fronts, that was underpinned tonight by having to bring Odegaard on at the interval.It will be interesting to see how things develop as this will tell us whether they feel the Spaniard has already had enough to achieve their goals.Copy linkCopiedForward hits back at criticsArsenal’s hat-trick hero spoke with Sky Sports after the game on his performance against Crystal Palace this evening.You know what, I am the kind of player who can score goals. I can drop off, come short and link play. But there are times where the goals do not come.That is why I am working a lot in training on my finishing. I think today my hard work paid off.Gabriel JesusArsenalCopy linkCopiedProof is in the puddingGabriel Jesus fits the mould of the many strikers who focus far too much on linking play than having that hunger to score.Dropping deep, making runs into the channels out wide and offering yourself as an option to midfielders takes one of the main threats that is required of a striker away.All too often teams with these kinds of players get quality balls into the box and there is nobody there to get on the end of it.It seemed this evening that the Brazilian spent more time in the penalty area and as a result, he got his rewards for it.Copy linkCopiedHome is where the heart isCrystal Palace have a difficult run of fixtures ahead, where they will play two of the top four in their league fixtures.The one thing they can look forward to is having so many home fixtures to utilise.Selhurst Park can be an intimidating place to visit when The Eagles are on it and they are more than capable of an upset.Copy linkCopiedArteta waits for semi-final drawThere are some interesting potentials for The Gunners in the next round of the Carabao Cup.Newcastle beat Brentford 3-1 to book their place, while Liverpool edged out Southampton 2-1 at St Mary’s.With Man Utd and Tottenham still to play, it could even be a North London derby in the semi-finals to add a little spice to the competition.Copy linkCopiedReady Eddie makes claim for startEddie Nketiah will have done himself no harm this evening in letting the manager know he is hungry for starts.Oliver Glasner seems to pick Jean-Philippe Mateta as his first-choice striker but he may have to rethink his tactics.If he could make room for both strikers in his side, it would certainly add some firepower to The Eagles.The former Arsenal man took his goal well to make it a nervy end to the game in North London.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedGunners off on their travelsArsenal will need to work on their away form over the Christmas fixture period.They have some tricky fixtures on the road coming up.Arteta will be pleased that they have finally scored from open play this evening to get that monkey off their back.Copy linkCopiedBoss shows where priorities lieAt a crucial point in this game, with the scores level, Oliver Glasner brought off Mateta and Eze.It seemed more important to the Palace manager to have his players fit for their weekend clash with The Gunners at Selhurst Park.Always a strange one to get your head around when you have got as far as the quarter-final stage.Securing their Premier League status for another season comes with far greater financial rewards, that is for sure.Copy linkCopiedYoungster needs to bounce backEthan Nwaneri will have to put this performance behind him.It is never nice to get the hook at half-time but Arteta saw fit for him to make way for Martin Odegaard.The young midfielder has a long career ahead of him, there will no doubt be a few poor performances from time to time.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGunners up against it, Jesus savesIt was a night to remember for Gabriel Jesus.The striker had been on something of a goal drought this season and questions were being asked about his returns for Arsenal.He answered his critics in the perfect fashion as he bagged three goals to see his side through to the semi-finals.The Brazilian just has to try and find some room in his bag for that match ball now.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedItalian gets back to basicsJorginho is never going to set a football pitch alight.That is not his game, what he does mainly goes under the radar.However, what he did tonight was just what The Gunners needed as he patrolled the midfield areas breaking up play.Copy linkCopiedFT: Arsenal 3-2 Crystal PalaceIt was a game of two halves at The Emirates.Once Odegaard came on, they looked a different team.Might be a good time for him to ask for a pay rise, he carries this Arsenal team.Copy linkCopiedFT: Arsenal 3-2 Crystal PalaceThe referee brings the game to a close.Arsenal are through to the Carabao Cup semi-finals.An entertaining game in North London.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace90+4. It is baffling how many empty seats there are in the ground now.This game is finely poised still but apparently missing the traffic is more important than catching the action.’Prawn sandwich brigade’ as Roy Keane would call them.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace90+2. Time is running out for The Eagles.They need to throw caution to the wind now.You don’t get anything for running teams close in football.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace90. Nketiah is looking lively up top.He beat Saliba for pace there and cuts the ball back from the byline but no Palace player can get on the end of it.We may yet have late drama here.Don’t forget, there is no extra time tonight, if the visitors equalise we will have penalties.There will be five added minutes.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace88. The Gunners should have enough to see this out.Chalobah felt he was fouled by Merino so grabs the ball as he goes down.The referee disagrees and penalises him for handball.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace86. Kiwior is coming off for Gabriel.That says a lot about Arteta’s mindset now.He wants to hold on to what they have.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace84. Well, that should make for a more exciting climax.As the cross comes into the box, Nketiah gets up and heads past Raya from some distance.Great goal from the former Gunner.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Eddie Nketiah (Crystal Palace)Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-1 Crystal Palace82. Well this has definitely made the trip to The Emirates worthwhile for all those Arsenal fans.A Gabriel Jesus hat-trick is rare commodity.It is like having watched the moon landings live.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-1 Crystal Palace80. Jesus is slotted clean through on goal.As Henderson comes out to close him down, he passes it into the far corner.It is a hat-trick for the Brazilian.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal)Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-1 Crystal Palace78. Henderson comes out to the collect the ball on the edge of his box.He almost carries the ball out of the penalty area with him.Arsenal are briming with confidence right now.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-1 Crystal Palace76. You feel Arsenal will have too much for the visitors now.With Saka and Odegaard on the pitch, they are able to open up Crystal Palace at will.It is hard to see a way back into this game for Glasner’s side.Copy linkCopied More

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      Unify League latest reaction LIVE: Fallout as European Super League RELAUNCHED and set to rival Champions League

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      THE European Super League is set to be RELAUNCHED with a whole new format as organisers battle for it to rival the Champions League once again.Unlike the first and widely criticised Super League concept, which saw the 12 breakaway rebels – including the Prem Big Six – guaranteed entry, all positions will be earned by domestic performances in the previous campaign.The Unify League would consist of 96 teams from across Europe taking part each year.Qualification would be similar to the Champions League, Europa League and Europa Conference League.There would be four leagues – Star League, Gold League, Blue League and Union League.The top two divisions, Star and Gold, would each have 16 teams in them, split into two groups of eight.The groups of eight would play each other home and away, a total of 14 matches per club each season.The bottom two divisions, Blue and Union, would have 32 teams each, split into four groups of eight -they would also play each other home and away.In the Star and Gold leagues, the top four of each group would play a two-legged quarter-final.In the Blue and Union, it would be the top two teams from each group making up the quarter-finals.Most read in FootballThe winners of those matches would then progress to a “final four” week of one-off matches to provide the champions of the four different leagues. Those games would be played on a neutral ground.The Premier League would have three guaranteed entrants in the Star League – and two English teams would go into the Gold League.Up to five further slots for Prem teams would be spread across the remaining pair.No formal start date has been set, SunSport understands that there is a provisional target of competition launch in September 2026.Follow ALL the latest reaction from our live blog belowThe Unify League would need to pass FOUR Uefa tests The Unify League would need to pass four tests — administrative and financial, sporting and technical, ethical, and sporting merit — to be approved. Having sporting merit approved would mean securing the agreement of European Leagues and the European Club Association (ECA), both of which have been strongly opposed to the concept.A22 said it has been involved in consultation with clubs across Europe, including in the Premier League, and that teams would qualify via their domestic competitions.Copy linkCopiedUefa say the Unify League won’t replace Champions LeagueUefa insiders insist there is almost no chance of the Unify League replacing the Champions League, which was this season revamped with a 36-team, single-league format replacing the old group stage. According to The Times, one senior figure described the latest plan as “bulls***” and a “Christmas pantomime”.Copy linkCopiedHow many English teams will take part?The Premier League would have three guaranteed entrants in the Star League.Two English teams would go into the Gold League.Up to five further slots for Prem teams would be spread across the remaining pair.Copy linkCopiedHow does the Unify League work and who plays in it?The proposed competition would see 96 teams from across Europe taking part each year.All positions will be earned by performances in domestic competitions the previous campaign – just as it currently is with the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League.The top two leagues would be called the Star League and the Gold League, with 16 teams in both divisions, divided into two groups of eight.The third and fourth divisions would be named the Blue League and Union League.In the final eight, made up of two teams from each of the four groups in the top two leagues, would consist of two-legged quarter finals, followed by one-legged semi finals at a neutral venue in the same week as the final. It is reported that there would then be 14 group stage fixtures, with the winners playing 18 games in total.The Blue and Union Leagues would work in the same way. Copy linkCopiedPremier League silent on European Super League relaunchUnlike three years ago, when the so-called Big Six, agreed to join the ESL before backing out almost immediately after backlash, this time no Prem club has offered a comment on the relaunch.Only Real Madrid and Barcelona are thought to have confirmed their entry if Uefa accept A22’s proposal.We’ll be keeping our eyes and ears open…Click here for everything you need to know about the Unify League.Copy linkCopiedHow will A22 Sports Management Company fund the Unify League?In terms of how A22 intends to fund the Unify League, its big idea remains the creation of a global streaming platform, called Unify.The service would offer fans the chance to watch these games for free, with adverts, or without adverts for a fee.Many industry experts question whether this is economically feasible, although UK-based sports streamer DAZN and Fifa have just announced that this is the business model they are trying for next summer’s Club World Cup.Coincidence? Manchester United fans protested against the idea of a European Super League in 2021Copy linkCopiedWhy many believe the new Unify League will be acceptedMadrid-based A22 Sports believes that the governing bodies will have no choice but to grant it permission to try to establish this league.It comes after last December’s landmark ruling by the European Court of Justice ruled that the response by Uefa and Fifa to the original European Super League proposal in 2021 breached European Union law.A22 believe neither body can impose any preemptive punishments on clubs interested in the idea.Its 2021 plan of creating a 20-team league, with 15 permanent members has been erased.And replaced with a four-league format of 64 clubs.A22 is confident its new proposal addresses the biggest criticism it received in 2021 from fans across Europe, but particularly in the UK.Fans fumed over the 2021 plans radical departure from decades of tradition, where European football is something clubs earn via their performances in domestic leagues.It also believes that many clubs are unhappy with the so-called Swiss model that Uefa has introduced to all three of its club competitions this season and they want complete control.Copy linkCopiedHow will the top two leagues (Star and Gold) work?Copy linkCopiedBack to basics of the Unify League (as per promoters A22)Copy linkCopiedFans mock Unify League’s marketingOne supporter wrote on X: “The Unify League is arguably the worst named product I’ve ever seen. “You went back to the drawing board after you was shut down by fans and clubs and came up with this??”A second said: “This has got to be the worst name 😂😂😂.”A third chimed in: “Regardless of thoughts about the tournament, whoever came up with the re-branding should be fired.”Never going to take a league called the unify league seriously. Sounds worse than Carabao Cup 🤣🤣.”Another added: “It remains a very stupid idea purely driven by greed.”Copy linkCopiedHow will each group work?Rankings and number of teams per domestic league are best on a European competition co-efficient.Swiss Football DataCopy linkCopiedFootball lovers say Unify League is a ‘waste of time’One fan wrote on X: “Massive waste of everyone’s time. As useless as the new World Club Cup. Stop trying to please faceless clubs.”A second added: “How do people expect all these games to be played seriously??”While another said: “Good riddance to the Super League. European clubs are just jealous of the money in the Premier League.”A fourth fumed: “When in the current 11 month calendar is this debacle going to be played? “It’s not worth the paper the proposal is printed on.”One more wrote: “Are traditional rivalries now ready for prime time bonding events?”Copy linkCopiedA22: “Disputes are counterproductive”A detailed letter from A22, promoters of the Unify League, to Uefa General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis, asks to “move forward collaboratively”. Critics of the new format remain, with one club calling the relaunch “a Perez pantomime”.Copy linkCopiedWhat clubs have agreed to be in European Super League?Spanish titans Real Madrid and Barcelona have committed themselves to the European Super League.And they are the driving force behind A22 – the group behind the controversial league.Madrid President Florentino Perez rubber-stamped his clubs backing of the competition.Copy linkCopiedHere’s what’s different this time:Open Access: No automatic spots for big clubs. All 96 teams must qualify annually.Four-Tier Format: The top two tiers, “Star League” and “Gold League,” each have 16 teams in two groups of 8. Teams play 14 group matches, with the top 8 advancing to the knockout stages.Streaming-First Approach: Matches will stream on a “Unified” app. Fans can watch for free (with ads) or pay for an ad-free experience – similar to Spotify’s model.Legal Backing: Organisers @A22Sports, linked to Real Madrid’s president, believe Uefa is legally obliged to permit the competition after a December 2023 EU court ruling.Copy linkCopiedWill the Unify League be accepted by Uefa?The European Super League company and A22 will now seek permission from Uefa to move forward with plans.They anticipate that the plans will be PASSED THROUGH.This is thanks to the December 2023 ruling from the European Courts that stated that Uefa went against EU law with their attempts to stop a breakaway tournament.Copy linkCopiedThe original Super League vs this new idea: The differenceFollowing a huge backlash, A22 Sports, the Madrid-based company behind the original idea in 2021, was made to drop the initial project.It initially involved a 20-team league with 15 permanent members including Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham.Now, following 12 months of consultation, they are proposing a four-league format – divisions known as Star, Gold, Blue and Union.96 clubs who would qualify via performance in their domestic league. There would be 16 teams in the top two tiers and 32 each in the other two.Copy linkCopiedWill the Unify League get off the ground?SunSport’s Martin Lipton assesses whether the Unify League will actually happen…The biggest complaint about the original European Super League was it was a closed shop.But the Unify League proposal would see teams qualify on merit, just as they do for the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League.But whether people accept it is another matter.Many people will still think this is just another version of the same old thing, the rich wanting to get richer.Maybe that’s right, but I can see the appeal for the clubs here – one of which will be a prize fund much bigger than what is currently offered for competing in Europe.I think there’s a genuine chance that this could be the first thing that brings down the UEFA dominance of club competitions.But there’s a lot of obstacles in the way.It’s proposed that it could start in September 2026.I don’t believe it can be as quick as 18 months, but money talks.We are into uncharted territory.This is very different from April 2021 when the whole thing crashed and burned so quickly.This could be real.This could happen and if it did, would change the face of footballCopy linkCopiedWhat’s the format of the relaunched European Super League?There would be FOUR leagues: Star League, Gold League, Blue League and Union League.The top two divisions, Star and Gold, would each have 16 teams in them, split into two groups of eight.The groups of eight would play each other home and away, a total of 14 matches per club each season.The bottom two divisions, Blue and Union, would have 32 teams each, split into four groups of eight.They would also play each other home and away.In the Star and Gold leagues, the top four of each group would play a two-legged quarter-final.In the Blue and Union, it would be the top two teams from each group making up the quarter-finals.The winners of those matches would then progress to a “final four” week of one off matches to provide the champions of the four different leagues. Those games would be played on a neutral ground.Copy linkCopiedWho will play in the Unify League?The proposed competition would see 96 teams from across Europe taking part each year.All positions will be earned by performances in domestic competitions the previous campaign – just as it currently is with the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League.Copy linkCopiedWhat is the Unify League in basic terms?22 Sports have rebranded the European Super League and called it the ‘Unify League’.This new format will have an annual qualification and there will be FOUR groups.They have redesigned the proposal to address the criticisms of its predecessor.Teams will play between September – April, alongside domestic football competitions and leagues.Copy linkCopiedFans slam “toxic” Real Madrid owner One raging footie lover wrote on X: “Florentino Perez is a mad man. He’s a cancer on modern day football.”A second said: “Y’all just creating a whole lot of nonsense for fun at this point.”A third added: “At this point you have to question Real Madrid’s influence in all of this. Why is the owner so toxic?”A fourth fumed: “Just f*** off. I thought we were done with this s***!”Copy linkCopiedWhat is A22 Sports Management?The Madrid-based company was specifically created in September 2022 with the aim of pushing through legislation for the European Super League in the aftermath of the failed attempt in 2021.The firm was created in tandem by Euro powerhouses Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus who were the loudest proponents of the breakaway league.Juventus left the project after they were threatened with expulsion from the Champions League, although are still believed to be supportive of it.Copy linkCopiedNew ESL will be free to watchAccording to A22, the new European Super League would be free for fans to watch.It will be streamed on new platform called “Unify”.Unify is the proposal for a state-of-the-art digital streaming platform.A22 Sports’ official website wrote: “We will democratise football by allowing fans everywhere to watch new European Super League games for free.”A22 Sports also suggest subscription tiers would also be offered for those who prefer to view matches with minimal advertising while enjoying advanced features such as favourite camera angles, live match data and other interactive options.They add: “Distribution partnerships with broadcasters, streaming services, clubs and content providers will also be an important component of the Unify experience to ensure ease of access for fans.”Copy linkCopiedIf accepted by Uefa and Fifa, when will the Unify League launch?While no formal start date has been set, Sun Sport understands that there is a provisional target of competition launch in September 2026.Copy linkCopied More

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      Bournemouth 1-1 West Ham LIVE RESULT: Unal’s incredible free-kick rescues point for Cherries after Paqueta’s pen

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      BOURNEMOUTH and West Ham were forced to share the spoils in what turned out to be a Monday Night Football clash.The Hammers took the lead through an 87th-minute Lucas Paqueta penalty.However, Enes Unal hit back just three minutes later with a spectacular long-range free-kick. RESULT: Bournemouth 1-1 West HamFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below… More

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      Southampton vs Tottenham LIVE RESULT: Spurs run RIOT with three goals in first 13 MINUTES against lowly Saints

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      SOUTHAMPTON fans called it a night early as Tottenham put FOUR past them inside of 30 minutes.Home fans could be seen streaming out of the ground after the fourth goal went in, having conceded three in the first 13 minutes.Ange Postecoglu’s side had won just one of their last eight in all competitions before the trip to the South Coast, with the game ending 5-0 to the visitors.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from St Mary’s with our live blog below… More

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      Chelsea vs Brentford LIVE RESULT: Jackson & Cucurella strike as Blues win FIFTH straight game to close gap on Liverpool

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      MARC CUCURELLA and Nicolas Jackson scored as Chelsea won a FIFTH straight game to close the gap on Liverpool at the top of the Premier League.Cucurella – who slipped over twice last week to concede two goals against Tottenham – responded in the best way possible with a superb leaping header, before Jackson fired home a powerful effort after a lovely Enzo Fernandez pass.Bryan Mbuemo scored a late goal to give Brentford hope but Chelsea held on for a win that leaves the Blues two points off Liverpool, who have a game in hand.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…That’s all from Stamford BridgeA Sunday that was more of a stretch than super ends with a victory for those in blue.And after Brighton were beaten by Crystal Palace, and Manchester City somehow slipped up against Manchester United, it was Chelsea’s turn to come out on top in a rivalry of their own against West London neighbours Brentford.With Liverpool and Arsenal dropping points yesterday. it’s Enzo Maresca’s team that are the big winners this weekend, and who now lie just two points behind the Premier League leaders.With Christmas around the corner, the heat is about to be turned up at the top, and the Blues will fancy their chances of silverware in 2025.On this form, who would write them off?Goodnight.Copy linkCopiedChelsea not ready for title tiltChelsea are just two points off leaders Liverpool following a fourth win in succession – but Enzo Maresca believes his side are not ready to challenge for the top prize.It’s not about how many games we win. It’s about being realistic. There are things we have to do better. That’s why I said for me we are not ready.Enzo MarescaBBCCopy linkCopiedMaresca: We controlled the gameEnzo Maresca was not concerned by the chaos of stoppage time in which his Chelsea side came under immense pressure.Instead, the Italian boss preferred to look at the bigger picture, and a game that his side dominated for large periods.We were in control of the game except for the last 10 minutes when we concede. It’s normal. We created chances and we could have scored more. We deserved to win the game.”Enzo MarescaBBCCopy linkCopiedMoises looks to Kante for inspirationMoises Caicedo put in another eye-catching shift in the heart of the Chelsea midfield – and then revealed afterwards that he hopes to idolise another Blues great.The Ecuadorian admitted life is good at Stamford Bridge right now, but he wants to keep working in the style of N’Golo Kante to ensure this current form persists.We are happy. This feeling is so good for us, but we’ll keep working to keep up and I’ll try to do my best. N’Golo Kante is my idol, he was a very big player.Moises CaicedoBBCCopy linkCopiedNew Blues taste the differenceThis season, Chelsea have earned 15 points more (34) than they did from the same corresponding 16 fixtures last term (19).It is the biggest such difference among Premier League side this campaign.Copy linkCopiedFrank: We deserved a drawBrentford boss Thomas Frank insisted his side deserved at least a point despite being dominated for large periods at Stamford Bridge.The Bees missed some good opportunities in the second half with the game at 1-0, especially when Robert Sanchez saved from Christian Norgaard and when Fabio Carvalho hit the crossbar.But the Danish coach also admitted that Chelsea are an impressive outfit that are very much in the Premier League title race.We played a very good game here and were unlucky not to get a draw. Some big chances we missed in the end. We managed for the 90 minutes to go toe-to-toe with Chelsea, especially in the second half. A draw would have been fair. They are right up there in the title race. They’re very good.Thomas FrankBBCCopy linkCopiedChelsea’s Jack in the boxThis evening’s encounter at the Bridge was Nicolas Jackson’s 50th Premier League appearance for Chelsea so what better way to mark it than with the winning goal.Jackson’s thumping strike to make it 2-0 made it 12 goal involvements in his last 14 games (nine goals and three assists).Copy linkCopiedFrom Andy Dillon at Stamford BridgeChelsea got three points but Brentford got their revenge on artful Marc Cucurella.The Spanish left-back put Chelsea ahead but with his team clinging on at the death resorted to dreadful playacting to thwart Brentford.At the final whistle he was confronted by Bees’ sub Kevin Schade and in the ruck picked up his second yellow card of the match meaning he will now be banned for next Sunday’s trip to Everton.Just desserts.Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Stamford BridgeSince the start of May, Chelsea have scored more goals (51), won more games (15) and earned more points (49) in the Premier League than any other side.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Chelsea 2-1 BrentfordThe final whistle goes and Enzo Maresca screams to the heavens in delight before shaking the hand of Thomas Frank.The nature is less good-willed on the pitch, however, and following a set-to with Kevin Schade, Marc Cucurella is shown a second yellow card and then a red by Peter Bankes.It’s a disappointing end to the evening for the Spaniard, who had earlier scored his first Premier League goal for the club with a terrific header.Nicolas Jackson doubled Chelsea’s lead in the second half, but the Blues were then made to sweat in a game they dominated by Bryan Mbeumo’s late strike.Maresca’s men held on, and are now just two points behind leaders Liverpool.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90+6. Chelsea are keeping the ball upfield now. They’re almost there.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90+4. Cucurella goes into the book for a lunge on Carvalho, and you get the impression the Spaniard is going through his little book of dark arts to see this one out.Seconds later, he’s involved in a clash with Collins that earns Chelsea a free-kick they scarcely deserve.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90+2. The game has entered seven minutes of stoppage time, and the atmosphere inside Stamford Bridge has changed markedly.It’s the travelling fans making all the noise, and the Bees have new hope – and a corner.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90. Brentford haven’t given up yet!In the final seconds of the 90, the Bees have a goal back, one beautifully tucked away by Bryan Mbeumo.Moises Caicedo is caught out high up the pitch, and the visitors quickly transition downfield.Kevin Schade’s pass through the middle is perfect, and the manner in which Mbeumo skips away from Marc Cucurella is sublime.Faced only by Robert Sanchez, the Cameroonian keeps his cool and buries beyond the goalkeeper before retrieving the ball to race back to halfway.They couldn’t, could they?Copy linkCopiedLate hope!Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford87. Caicedo and Madueke are the latest to go close.In fact, with the former trying his luck, it’s now only Colwill from those that started the game not to register a shot for the Blues.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford85. Both sides are seeing the game out now, and would be happy for the final whistle.Tosin fancies this period as his chance to shine though, and steers a diving header wide of goal.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford82. Nicolas Jackson takes his leave after scoring the goal that sees off the Brentford fightback.Christopher Nkunku is on in the striker’s place for the final eight minutes.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford80. Nicolas Jackson makes it two and Chelsea have the points in the bag!This is more like it from the Blues too, who win it back deep in their own half thanks to Moises Caicedo. The former Brighton man moves it on to midfield partner Enzo Fernandez, who sends a raking pass upfield for Jackson to chase.Fronting up to Ethan Pinnock, there’s only one thing in the striker’s mind as he drops a shoulder and slams low beyond Mark Flekken.Copy linkCopiedSigned and sealed!Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford77. Carvalho equalises! No, it’s off the woodwork!A flying move from the Bees down the right sees one sub in Ajer centre a low cross to another, Carvalho, to thump across the underside of the crossbar from five yards out.So, so close to an equaliser.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford75. With 15 minutes left on the clock, Nicolas Jackson nearly seals it for the hosts but his long range thumper travels agonisingly wide.Meanwhile, Fabio Carvalho, Kristoffer Ajer and Kevin Schade are on for Yoane Wissa, Mads Roerslev and Yehor Yarmoliuk.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford73. An incredible save from Sanchez to deny Norgaard!The corner from the right has Chelsea all in a panic, and after the ball had bounced messily around the 18-yard box, it fell invitingly at the right foot of the Brentford captain.The sidefooted volley looks destined for the back of the net until the home keeper soars through the air and tips over.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford71. Do Brentford believe? Lewis-Potter makes inroads on the left and wins a corner off Fernandez right in front of their travelling fans.The supporters roar encouragement, and the players are moving with an extra spring in their step.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford69. Into the final quarter of the match, and it’s around the time that – while it remains 1-0 – you begin to wonder if Chelsea will rue the opportunities they have passed up.And right on cue, Wissa goes through on goal, only to be denied by Sanchez – and then the offside flag.Copy linkCopied More

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      Dillian Whyte vs Ebenezer Tetteh LIVE RESULT: Fight abruptly STOPPED after thrilling battle in Gibraltar – updates

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      DILLIAN WHYTE returned to the ring in Gibraltar on Sunday night to take on Ghanaian heavyweight Ebenezer Tetteh.After seven action-packed rounds, Tetteh’s corner pulled him out but both men landed huge blows in an entertaining main event as the Body Snatcher picked up back-to-back wins in a year for the first time since 2019.Whyte will now keep on his march up the heavyweight division with a huge 2025 in store.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFollow our live blog below…Wardley next? Analysts float their ideasBarry Jones and his fellow play-by-play commentator Adam Smith float the idea of British champion Fabio Wardley facing Dillian Whyte next, one of many nearly there names poised to break onto the world scene after a performance that didn’t blow your socks off here but instead reminded you of just how tough a customer Whyte can be.I don’t want to be the bearer of bad news but might just pour some cold water on that possibility right here, considering both know one another intimately and share teams – Wardley would rather box someone highly-ranked within a world sanctioning body instead.Copy linkCopiedWhyte wins via R7 TKO in Gibraltar!Former WBC interim world heavyweight champion Dillian Whyte maintained he needed rounds under his belt again after a lengthy lay-off, not the first of an engaging career. Yet the Body Snatcher will hope it is the last after displaying his trademark gusto and boxing beautifully at times to dismiss a gamely Ebenezer Tetteh during an absorbing contest that surprisingly went longer than many would’ve expected pre-fight. Back in the heavyweight mix again, sure, but he must be active for that to be the case and isn’t getting any younger… Copy linkCopiedReferee waves it off, Tetteh stopped!After the way he was assessing him before the sixth, that very pointed question minutes ago, this felt like a likely outcome and so it has proven: Ebenezer Tetteh is stopped before round eight begins, looking weary in the corner and the official has seen enough damage.Whyte goes over to commiserate with a bullish brute who never stopped working, but absorbed far too much punishment and wasn’t giving enough back in the last two rounds to justify that anymore.Whyte leans over the ropes to address DAZN’s commentary team and insist he needed the rounds, Tetteh’s got a towel over his bloodied nose and swollen eyes, all that is left is an official time right now. Copy linkCopiedWhyte vs. Tetteh R7I’m seeing Whyte has landed 275 punches, 49 of them high impact according to JABBR through six rounds and it’s a surprise Tetteh hasn’t been knocked down yet – the variation of attacks has been encouraging, heavyweight boxing always presents jeopardy and this contest features plenty too, Dillian can’t deviate from the plan.Tetteh charges forward looking tired but lets his hands go all the same, whether they connect on the target or not. Copy linkCopiedWhyte vs. Tetteh R6″Are you okay, do you want to continue?” is the audible question asked by the referee of Ebenezer Tetteh as they head into the second-half of a gruelling contest which many didn’t think would reach this juncture. Still he marches forwards, eating punches and the head pings backwards, Whyte measuring distance while banking rounds against a courageous opponent refusing to relent right now.The high guard remains but Whyte is popping through it with increasing success, he chains together a series of jabs-and-swings before losing his footing just as the finishing sequence looked likely!Copy linkCopiedWhyte vs. Tetteh R5Tetteh was slow to get off his stool before the fifth, his eyes closing ever so slightly and his punch output slowing too – Whyte’s boxing at middle distance and utilising the jab more, as you’d expect against an opponent he should be outclassing, making him miss and lining up power punches whenever the opportunity arises too. The referee gives Dillian a gentle warning after watching him tee off with three low shots downstairs, Tetteh’s forward forays are more mreasured but the jeopardy remains as they head into the sixth. Copy linkCopiedWhyte vs. Tetteh R4As the fourth round begins, Tetteh is enjoying a sustained sequence of success as the graphic on screen shows Whyte has been working hard – and boxing brilliantly, even if this is a firefight. 19 high impact punches to 4, while he’s landed 126 of 254 total punches thrown through nine minutes. Finding himself in a spot of bother as I type this, mind, having to push the Ghanaian off him.Tetteh appeared to stagger him with a single right, then right and uppercut combination but both of them look weary. This still hangs in the balance, one perfectly-placed punch could change things…Copy linkCopiedWhyte vs. Tetteh R3Tetteh’s doing enough to make this a dogfight, not allowing Whyte any space or time to maintain his rhythm and it’s rough, an untidy spectacle that suits the underdog right now. Whyte boxing well in stages with jabs, combos, body work and the odd uppercut but while damage accumulation is a factor to consider the longer this goes, Tetteh is making him work harder than many would’ve expected to sustain the success. Exhausting is the word! Copy linkCopiedWhyte vs. Tetteh R2Ooof! Tetteh finds himself having to absorb damage up against the ropes in the early part of a stinging second stanza, Whyte loving that body-head combination before Tetteh fires back and complains to the referee about punching behind the head. Midway through the round now, Whyte chains together a series of body work and then two uppercuts but Tetteh brushes these attacks off as if it’s nothing, firing back rights before the referee separates them with Whyte’s back to the ropes as they clinch momentarily. Whyte is throwing plenty but Tetteh’s walking into the punches and hasn’t really taken a backwards step – whenever he does, it’s not for long! This gruelling pace can’t last much longer, surely. Copy linkCopiedWhyte vs. Tetteh R1He laps up the adulation ringside, engages in a long wolf howl and after the Gibraltar national anthem is sung, we’re off and underway!Whyte starts flicking out the jab, digging a few body shots as Tetteh’s high guard remains solid – we’ll see for how long – whipping an uppercut in for good measure before Tetteh fires back gamely with some wild swings of his own!Suddenly they’re trading in close quarters and Whyte’s feet are slow … he lands a few combos, it’s bruising stuff and thankfully for Dillian, head movement sees him dodge dangerous haymakers.Copy linkCopiedJones: Whyte can ill-afford a slip-up hereIt goes without saying naturally on a small show like this, but in-case you had any doubts about Dillian Whyte’s abilities on the world stage chasing big names, he needs to produce a statement showing here. Former world champion boxer-turned-analyst Barry Jones on commentary has echoed that sentiment ringside, not least given how seamlessly the heavyweight division has been supercharged in Saudi over the past 15 months or so, Turki Alalshikh’s favourite division.Copy linkCopiedWhyte-Tetteh up next…A bit of a delay on the television broadcast and some pre-planning for next weekend’s Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury 2 showdown in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia as expected, but we’re just a few minutes away from the long-awaited main event showdown. Both have been warming up in their respective dressing rooms, not long left now. Copy linkCopiedPerez blasts Duffus inside 40 seconds!Wow! Over in a flash, Mike Perez casually chains together a patiently vicious combination to leave Israel Duffus in a heap on the canvas, the Californian-based Panamanian didn’t know what hit him and just like that, the evening’s co-feature is over before you can blink.I counted about five punches in that sequence, the first one signalled the beginning of a rather abrupt end… Duffus’ defensive awareness was all over the place and he was ruthlessly punished for it. Copy linkCopiedMike Perez vs. Israel Duffus up next…Cruiserweight co-main event over eight rounds, you ready? Irish-based Cuban national Perez (29-3, 20 KOs) previously challenged Mairis Briedis for WBC world honours at 200lbs in 2017, so how will the 16-year pro fare here? We’re about to find out. Copy linkCopiedSekhniashvili secures UD6 win60-53 x 3: Nikoloz Sekhniashvili bt. Omir Rodriguez via UD6 and improves to 10-2, with his second win of 2024. Well, it wasn’t the highlight reel finish he could’ve got.. but job complete nonetheless for an ambitious middleweight keen to get back onto the world scene after losing an eight-round decision against then-unbeaten 9-0 prospect Jahi Tucker in April 2023. Copy linkCopiedBody shot knockdown! Nikoloz Sekhniashvili scores a body shot knockdown with a lovely left hand, Omir Rodriguez’s delayed reaction and outstretched glove – half in acknowledgement, half stalling – probably saved him from being stopped at the end of the fourth. Surely the Georgian goes for the finish now?Copy linkCopiedNikoloz nice and in a flow stateRodriguez began the first round by complaining to the referee and visibly wincing at body shots, now he’s shaking his head dismissively trying to fend off forward pressure but the Orlando resident is stalking the journeyman down, needing to close off angles now. Into the third round they go and the Georgian is taking his time, though should probably be chaining attacks together more now. Copy linkCopiedSekhniashvili-Rodriguez next…Well, that’s awkward – forget what I said earlier about tonight’s running order! It appears we’ll have another bout before the evening’s co-main event at cruiserweight, a six-round middleweight contest as Nikoloz Sekhniashvili (9-2, 7 KOs) looks for his tenth pro win against Panamanian journeyman Omir Rodriguez (15-23-1, 6 KOs).31-year-old Rodriguez has boxed almost exclusively in England this year, suffering defeats by unbeaten prospects Ben Fail (UD8), Jimmy Sains (TKO2) and James Heneghan (UD6) over the past few months. Copy linkCopiedCarty seals R3 TKO!There we go. Carty swarms Mielonen with more lefts, dismisses a final rally from the Finland international and his legs are shot, mercifully the official waves off the contest after another standing count. I’m hearing Johnny Fisher comparisons and in fairness, that’s not a bad name to be likened to. Another unbeaten boxer, the former Southern Area champion returns in Riyadh next weekend against longtime contender (and former Whyte opponent!) Dave Allen.Copy linkCopiedCarty cranks up the violence!The referee’s certainly in a forgiving mood, because Carty crunched Mielonen with a beautifully disguised left hand, the first of as many as three knockdowns in a whirlwind stanza just now. This should’ve been stopped already..Copy linkCopiedCarty vs. Mielonen up next! Highly-rated Irish southpaw heavyweight Thomas Carty (9-0, 8 KOs) is up next against Finland’s 43-year-old Mika Mielonen (7-2, 6 KOs) over eight rounds. Something tells me this won’t go the distance…Copy linkCopiedAma prevails, as expected!60-54, 59-55, 60-54: Sedem Ama bt. Ester Konecna via UD6, improves to 4-0 and kicks off the televised portion of this card with a welcome win, even if the ring announcer briefly gave her a fright by beginning his sentence with the winner is… Ester, before catching himself. That was about as much trouble as the 34-year-old, a two-time national amateur champion, found herself in. Body work worked, her movement was slick and the jab didn’t miss either for good measure.Copy linkCopiedAma in control early…It’s a decent start to proceedings for the Peckham puncher, closing the distance and displaying some sharp fundamentals as they’re midway through the fourth round as I type this. Konecna is playing around and enjoying herself on the back foot, but quite clearly losing this and it’s becoming a little jarring to see the smile across her face as she showboats with her back to the ropes. Maybe that’s just me being a cynic, but hey. This looks destined to go the distance and then two more undercard fights, both over eight rounds, before Whyte-Tetteh ringwalks – at least an hour away, I’d say. Copy linkCopiedHistory made!Peckham’s Sedem Ama (3-0, 1 KO) is managed by Whyte and about to make history against Czech Republic journeywoman Ester Konecna (7-30-2, 2 KOs) as the first two women to compete professionally in Gibraltar on this undercard. Six two-minute rounds at light-middleweight and they’re underway.Copy linkCopiedRemember me? Revenge season for WhyteWho are those names, you might ask? Well, it’s revenge season.”I would love to fight Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury again… obviously I’ve avenged one of my losses and I’d love to avenge the others.”Whyte was set to box Joshua in a rematch of their 2015 firefight before news broke a week out from the duel that he’d failed a random VADA drugs test, which six months later was revealed to have been a contaminated supplement and Whyte cleared of wrongdoing. Tyson Fury, who rematches Oleksandr Usyk for unified heavyweight world titles in Riyadh, scored a sixth-round stoppage win over Whyte to retain the WBC heavyweight strap at Wembley in April 2022. Copy linkCopied More

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      Man City vs Man Utd LIVE RESULT: City STUNNED as Amad and Bruno score two in just TWO MINUTES to turn derby on its head

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      MANCHESTER UNITED scored two goals in just TWO MINUTES to STUN derby rivals Manchester City.Pep Guardiola’s side had been leading until the 89th-minute when a Matheus Nunes horror show saw City concede a penalty and Bruno Fernandes coolly strike home.But United weren’t finished there as Amad Diallo produced a wonderful touch to round Ederson and slot home a second goal.Follow all the action with our live blog below…Ruben Amorim on Amad DialloMan Utd boss Ruben Amorim on match-winner Amad Diallo.Amorim said to the BBC: “He is eager for more. When you do the right things you get your chances, you get goals, you get momentum. He has been really good for us. “I want to keep him under the radar so that he goes still more and more because I want Amada to do this ever game.”We know we have a quality team but not everyone has shown their quality at its best.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMore from Bernardo SilvaCutting post-match interview with Sky Sports from Bernardo Silva, saying in the final minute Man City played like “under 15s”.The City midfielder said: “We deserved what happened. At this level a game or two is unlucky. We can’t say this is lucky or unlucky – 10 games it’s not about that.”Minute 87 in a derby, winning 1-0 and our corner ends in a penalty for them, if we make these stupid decisions with three or four minutes to go you deserve to pay for that. Looking at the game I think there was only one team that could win the game, but at the end we lost.”It’s not one game, it’s a lot of games lately. We have to look at ourselves. You can say oh t’s a bit unlucky, no. It’s the decisions you make. Today in the last minute we played like under-15s.”Copy linkCopiedHojlund trolls WalkerRasmus Hojlund has trolled Kyle Walker with this poetic Instagram post.The pair clashed earlier in the first half with Walker seemingly going down very easily after contact with Hojlund’s forehead…Copy linkCopiedBernardo Silva reactionMan City midfielder Bernardo Silva has been speaking to Sky Sports, and says City must be “more experienced and smarter” after their most recent collapse today.Silva said: “When it happens in 10 games, we have to look at ourselves and see what we can do better. There needs to be communication for us to play short or to keep the ball in the corner or something. “At least if the ball ends up with one of our midfielders, just put it in the corner. Not put yourself under pressure. It’s not just the pass from Matheus to the keeper. It’s everything, how the ball ends up from Ruben to Matheus and Kyle we have to do better. Be more experienced, smarter, at this level even if you’re better than the opponent. You deserve to lose the game.”It’s quite normal that we’re not very happy at the minute. Not just this game but the last month. We have to do better individually and collectively because it’s not the standards of Manchester City.”Copy linkCopiedRuben Amorim speaksMan Utd manager Ruben Amorim has been speaking to BBC, and hailed his team for their “deserved” win.Amorim said: “It was incredible. I think we deserved it. It was a very tough match but we believe until the end. We managed to score, we needed that win, it was important for us and for our fans.”We were in the game for 90 minutes and that is very good. We talk about the Arsenal game, we played well in the first half but they were not believing that we could win. Today was so much more different.”I also believe. Then we have Fergie time and we put the things together and something magic happened. It was a good day for us.”Copy linkCopiedPhil Foden reactionPhil Foden has been speaking to the BBC after the game, and has said City have to stick together through this time, with now one win in their last 11 games.Foden said: “Massively disappointed – game was in our hands. 1-0 up we were controlling the game. We had a lot of possession. Seems to be the story at the moment I don’t know what happens but we switch off and they score two goals. It keeps happening at the moment. We have to stick together now, rebuild and go again.”We’ve not been used to losing this amount of games in a short period. But sometimes you have to experience this in life, you can’t always win. When things go wrong they then seem to go worse. We have to stick together and regroup.”Copy linkCopiedBruno Fernandes speakingBruno Fernandes has been speaking with Sky Sports post-match alongside player of the match Amad Diallo.Fernandes said of Diallo: “He has been doing well, he has been doing great things and there is a still a lot to come from him.”He showed again today he is always alive. That is why he gets the penalty, why he gets the goal. He has been brilliant. When he is like this he is unstoppable.”I just want him to keep working, that is what he has been doing. It is great what he did today but I am sure he can do this every week. We want this week in, week out. He is now getting his chances, deservedly.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMatch stats from the EtihadManchester City did not have a single shot on target in the second half – and they were made to pay by Amad’s mad late show.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Man City 1-2 Man UtdAn extraordinary end to the most ordinary of matches.Mundane and mistake-ridden for the most part, this Manchester derby was meandering towards a 1-0 home win until Amad Diallo stepped in.Capitalising on a catastrophic error from Matheus Nunes, the young winger first won a penalty that Bruno Fernandes dispatched, and then won the contest just seconds later with a moment of class and composure.United celebrate as Manchester is painted red this evening. For City, it’s another defeat that has Pep Guardiola scratching his head.Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-2 Man Utd90+5. Joshua Zirkzee wins possession and heads for the corner flag.That’s surely it now…Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-2 Man Utd90+4. There were just 54 seconds between the two Manchester United goals. Just astonishing.Manchester City win a corner and load the penalty area, but Grealish’s delivery is awful and is headed clear by the first man.It’s seconds now for United.Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-2 Man Utd90+2. We’re inside five minutes of stoppage time at the Etihad, and neither set of fans can believe what they have just witnessed.Neither can Pep Guardiola, who has never known the like.United throw on Victor Lindelof for the remainder as the likely matchwinner Amad makes way.Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-2 Man Utd90. An astonishing end to an awful game! Amad Diallo has surely won it for Manchester United right at the death!Not content with winning the penalty that has drawn his team level, the 22-year-old sets off on a darting run between Josko Gvardiol and Matheus Nunes that is met by a glorious pass from Lisandro Martinez.With Ederson bearing down on him, Amad lifts the ball over the goalkeeper with a delicate touch and then finishes first time from an acute angle.It’s absolutely incredible!Copy linkCopiedUNBELIEVABLE!Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-1 Man Utd89. So the Manchester derby is headed for a draw.Or is it…?Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-1 Man Utd88. There’s no mistake this time from Bruno Fernandes – the captain is spot on from 12 yards!He’s made to wait before taking it, but when Anthony Taylor blows his whistle, Fernandes plants the penalty to Ederson’s left as the City goalkeeper dives the wrong way.Manchester United have nicked a point right at the end.Copy linkCopiedEqualiser!Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-0 Man Utd85. A penalty to Manchester United!And it’s an absolute disaster for Matheus Nunes!The makeshift left-back leaves a backpass towards Ederson short, and that allows Amad to sneak in and collect.There’s still plenty for the United forward to do, but the panic has already set in among the hosts.In his desperation to get back and atone, Nunes clatters straight into Amad and gives Anthony Taylor little choice.The referee points to the spot, and with just minutes remaining, United have a chance to draw level.Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-0 Man Utd83. A half-chance for Mainoo, who finds himself in space to Martinez’s cross from the left.The substitute tries to lift it on towards the back stick, but doesn’t get enough pace on the ball to trouble the City goalkeeper or defence.Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-0 Man Utd81. Inside the final ten minutes now. It’s the perfect time for somebody to make themselves a local hero.But there’s been little courage on display, and many of these players are perhaps more concerned by not making the mistake that costs them the derby.Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-0 Man Utd79. Ruben rolls the dice.The new United gaffer sends on Joshua Zirkzee, Antony and Leny Yoro for Rasmus Hojlund, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui.Copy linkCopied Man City 1-0 Man Utd77. Pep Guardiola makes his second switch of the game, introducing Jack Grealish into the contest. Jeremy Doku makes way.It doesn’t look as though that’s the end of the changes through with Ruben Amorim preparing a triple substitution.Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-0 Man Utd76. Is the game opening up?Foden finds room inside the United penalty area, and crosses to Kovacic. The substitute takes a loose touch, but it falls nicely into the path of Haaland on the turn.His shot is bravely blocked by Martinez.Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-0 Man Utd74. Bruno Fernandes! Big chance! Big miss!In a rare moment of invention, Rasmus Hojlund slips a ball through the City defence and into the path of his captain, who had timed his run perfectly.With just Ederson to beat, Fernandes dinked his shot over the sliding goalkeeper……and just wide of the far post.Was that United’s moment?!Copy linkCopiedMan City 1-0 Man Utd72. This may not be a great advert for the Premier League, but I bet some walking football clubs will be fielding phonecalls in the morning.Copy linkCopied More