Sport Live Blogs

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Cavani recommends Man Utd sign De La Cruz, Varane ‘wants £400k in wages’, Jadon Sancho ‘tells team-mates he’s joining’

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly keeping tabs on Uruguayan international Nicolas De La Cruz – after a recommendation from Edinson Cavani.We’ve also got the very latest on Raphael Varane, with the Red Devils reportedly unable to match his £400k-a-week demands.
      And Jadon Sancho has told team-mates in the England camp he’s heading to Old Trafford this summer.
      CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED
      Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
      ‘DISGRACE’
      This is the shock moment that Cristiano Ronaldo booted the captain’s armband seconds after throwing it to the floor after Portugal were dumped out of Euro 2020.
      The Juventus striker and former Man United star was obviously fuming after the defending champs were eliminated by Belgium thanks to a Thorgan Hazard thunderbolt.
      Ronaldo was seen throwing the blue armband to the turf while Belgium players celebrated reaching the quarter-finals.
      And now further footage has emerged of the 36-year-old then launching it with his boot as his frustration boiled over.
      VIDEO: Watch fuming Cristiano Ronaldo KICK Portugal captain’s armband after throwing it to floor following Euro 2020 exit
      CAMA HAVE A GO
      Man United are reportedly lining up a move for Rennes wonderkid Eduardo Camavinga.
      The Mail claims United will meet the Frenchman’s representatives once they seal a deal for Jadon Sancho.
      However, PSG are leading the race for Camavinga, who would prefer to stay in France.

      KO BLOW
      David De Gea is out of Spain’s Euro 2020 last 16 clash with Croatia.
      The Manchester United goalkeeper was injured in training ahead of today’s showdown.
      De Gea, 30, took part in the session at Copenhagen’s Parken Stadium yesterday.
      But he was forced out of the training drills with what is believed to be a thigh injury.

      JA PAY DAY
      Jadon Sancho looks set to become Manchester United’s second-highest earner, writes JOSHUA JONES.
      The England winger, 21, is closing in on a mega transfer from Borussia Dortmund.
      The two clubs are finalising an agreement on the fee but, as revealed by SunSport, personal terms are already sorted.
      Sancho will pen a five-year deal at Old Trafford worth £91million – or £350,000 per week. 
      That will see his wages more than trebled from the £100,000-per-week deal he is on at Dortmund.
      And it will also see him among the very best-paid players in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad.
      ‘I’M SURE HE KNOWS THE PLAYERS’
      Marcus Rashford has backed England team-mate Jadon Sancho to make an impact against Germany.
      The Man Utd-linked winger Sancho currently plays in the Bundesliga for Borussia Dourtmund.
      And tomorrow he’ll be facing some familiar faces when England take on Germany at Wembley.
      Rashford said: “In a way, yes, because he’s played a lot of football against them, more than the rest of us.
      “I’m sure he knows the players, their characteristics, strengths and weaknesses and he’s definitely someone that can exploit them.
      “If one thing doesn’t quite work we have a big opportunity to change things and adapt in the game.
      “Adaptability is one of the biggest skills in football and there’s a lot of times in a game where you have to change or tweak something slightly to hurt your opponents.
      “The fact that he’s played against them a lot, he’s hurt them a lot as well, it will be a big factor for us.”
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      TROPHY HUNTING
      Will Man Utd add any trophies to the cabinet this season?

      VARANE STUMBLING BLOCK
      Raphael Varane wants to join Man Utd, but his wages appear to be a problem.
      According to the Independent, the 28-year-old wants to pick up an eye-watering £400,000 a week.
      And it will cost upwards of £50m to even tempt Real Madrid to sell the four-time Champions League winner.
      PSG are also an option for Varane, but he has his sights set on the Premier League.
      BARTHEZ’S BIRTHDAY
      Former Man Utd goalkeeper Fabien Alain Barthez is celebrating his 50th birthday today!

      KING’S LANDING
      Liverpool are reportedly weighing up a bid to sign Kingsley Coman from Bayern Munich this summer, writes SUNNI UPAL.
      The Reds are lining up the French winger as a replacement for Divock Origi and to boost their forward options.
      Coman, 25, is out of contract next summer and Bayern are said to be keen on extending his stay.
      But the German giants also face losing him on a free in 2023 if a new deal can’t be agreed.
      And Sport1 in Germany report that Liverpool have started talks with his representatives to rival interest from Manchester United.
      Bayern would reportedly accept around £43m for Coman, who is reported to be seeking a new challenge.
      LIVERPOOL EYE BAUMGARTNER
      Liverpool are interested in 21-year-old Hoffenheim midfielder Christoph Baumgartner, according to reports.
      Baumgartner has impressed at Euro 2020 for Austria scoring the winning goal in the Group C game against Ukraine, which ensured a second-placed finish. 
      According to German outlet Kicker, both Liverpool and Man Utd are keeping an eye on the midfielder.
      But Baumgartner recently signed a new deal at Hoffenheim keeping him at the club until 2025 – giving the Bundesliga club some bargaining power.
      NEW DEAL
      Jesse Lingard is expected to be offered a new deal, which would keep him at Man Utd.
      The 28-year-old has just one year left on his current deal, and has been heavily linked with a move to West Ham.
      Lingard found his form whilst on loan at the Hammers, scoring nine goals and providing four assists in just 16 Premier League games.
      And his fine form helped West Ham qualify for the Europa League.
      But a new deal could end the Hammers’ pursuit of Lingard, and according to The Star, a new three-year deal is being prepared.
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      TITLE WINNERS
      Man Utd have won the most Premier League’s, will they add another to the trophy cabinet this season?

      EYES ON THE PRIZE
      Paul Pogba has his sights on European glory with France.

      DON STOP ME NOW
      Manchester United have been given a clear path to Jadon Sancho as Borussia Dortmund were given the green light to sign Donyell Malen as his replacement, writes JOSHUA JONES.
      The Red Devils are desperate to land a right winger in the summer window with Sancho their priority.
      As revealed by SunSport, the England star, 21, is closing in on a five-year deal worth £350,000 per week at Old Trafford.
      Sancho has reportedly told Three Lions team-mates he is making the switch.
      And according to the Mirror, the move has taken another step closer as Dortmund continue their search for someone to fill his boots in Germany. 
      And they have settled on  PSV Eindhoven and Holland sensation Malen.
      HIGHEST EARNERS
      Paul Pogba could leapfrog De Gea at the top of Man Utd’s highest earners IF he signs a new contract.
      But the Frenchman is attracting interest from Spain.
      The wages of Manchester United’s current players
      NIC HIM
      Man Utd are interested in signing River Plate star Nicolas De La Cruz, according to reports.
      The tricky winger has just 18 months left on his current deal and is attracting interest from a host of European clubs.
      River Plate are believed to want between £13.75m-£17m for De La Cruz, according to TNT Sports Argentina.
      The 24-year-old has received recognition for this fine form, which has seen him score 19 goals and 28 assists in 128 games for River Plate – earning himself eight caps for Uruguay.
      De La Cruz – if he was to join United – would link up with fellow-countryman Edinson Cavani and Facundo Pellistri.
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      CAM TO MANCHESTER
      Man Utd are interested in signing French teenage wonderkid Eduardo Camavinga, according to reports.
      According to the Daily Mail, United plan to make contact with the Frenchman’s representatives this week.
      Camavinga only has one year left on his current deal.
      And the midfielder could be tempted to leave Rennes for a new challenge abroad.
      However, Man Utd aren’t the only team interested in Camavinga.
      French giants Paris Saint-Germain are also interested in Camavinga, and offer a good alternative to moving abroad.
      BACK ON TOP
      Man Utd will start the 2021-22 Premier League season against rivals Leeds at Old Trafford!

      MORNING, UNITED FANS
      Jadon Sancho has reportedly told his Borussia Dortmund team-mates he will definitely join Manchester United this summer.
      It’s also claimed United could offload striker Anthony Martial and midfielder Donny van de Beek after the Euros.
      SunSport revealed earlier this month that England Sancho has agreed a five-year, £350,000-a-week deal.
      But there is still wrangling over the fee of around £80million plus add-ons.
      Meanwhile, boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is said to have been unhappy with Martial’s attitude, while Van de Beek had a timid first season after arriving from Ajax.
      West Ham loan star Jesse Lingard is tipped for a new three-year United contract.
      The England midfielder, 28, just missed out on Gareth Southgate’s 26-man Euros squad after nine goals in 16 games for the Hammers.
      And United target Marcos Llorente admits ‘anything can happen’ over his future but insists he is happy at the Spanish champions
      The Spain midfielder told AS: “I have many years left (on my contract). My idea is to stay, I’m fine, I’m happy at Atletico Madrid.”
      United are also being linked with a move for Rennes midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, 18.
      SHAW: JOSE OBSESSED WITH ME
      Luke Shaw has accused his ex-Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho of being obsessed with him.
      The England defender, preparing for Tuesday’s Euro 2020 last-16 clash with Germany, is stunned he is still being criticised by his former boss at Manchester United.
      Mourinho criticised Shaw for his “dramatically bad” and “poor” set-pieces in the 1-0 win over Czech Republic.
      Shaw, 25, said: “There is no hiding that we didn’t get on. It is time to move on. I am trying to move on but, obviously, he can’t.
      “Hopefully he can find his peace with that and finally move and stop worrying about me. Clearly I am in his head a lot and he clearly thinks about me a lot.
      “I don’t really understand it, to be honest. I don’t know why he is still going on and wanting to point at me. I don’t feel like the set pieces were as bad as he was saying.
      “Look, he has got to do his job. He has got his opinion. I am used to him saying negative stuff about me now, so I just pass it by.
      “I leave it be, I ignore it. I just focus on what the coaching staff say here, what Gareth says and that’s that, really.”
      SOME-VING SPECIAL
      Rennes wonderkid Eduardo Camavinga is reportedly on Manchester United’s summer wishlist.
      That is according to the Daily Mail, who claim United will battle Premier League rivals Arsenal for Camavinga.
      The Red Devils are closing in on top target Jadon Sancho and are already thinking ahead.
      However, the talented French midfielder has also attracted interest from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

      MARTIAL AND VAN DE BEEK AT RISK
      France striker Anthony Martial and Holland midfielder Donny van de Beek are reportedly at risk of summer exits from Manchester United.
      Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      But Old Trafford boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will not offload frontline players unless he gets a decent price.
      That’s the claim from the Mail On Sunday as United prepare for a major summer shake-up.
      UTD TO OFFER LINGARD 3-YEAR DEAL
      West Ham loan star Jesse Lingard is tipped for a new three-year Manchester United contract.
      The England midfielder, 28, just missed out on Gareth Southgate’s 26-man Euros squad after nine goals in 16 games for the Hammers.
      Credit: Ryan Browne-The Guardian
      KEANE CHEEKY DIG AT GUNNERS
      Roy Keane heaped praise on Bukayo Saka but also aimed criticism at Arsenal while doing so.
      The ITV pundit was discussing Saka, 19, alongside Ian Wright, who applauded Saka’s “glorious pace”.

      And former Manchester United star Keane was equally as complimentary towards the youngster.
      But he could ignore old rivalries, bashing Arsenal in his assessment of Saka.
      In ITV’s pre-match coverage of Belgium vs Portgual, Keane said: “He’s been playing well in a poor Arsenal team.”
      But Keane is accurate in his view, as the Gunners underperformed last season, finishing the campaign without a trophy.
      Mikel Arteta’s side finished eighth in the Premier League and perhaps the most disappointing moment came in the Europa League semi-final exit to Villareal.
      And despite their problems Saka still shone, scoring seven and assisting ten goals in all competitions.
      JADED SANCHO SAGA
      Old Trafford legend Gary Neville says Jadon Sancho (apparently) joining United is the most boring transfer saga he’s ever known – and many on social media agree.

      The latest news seems to be Borussia Dortmund’s England attacker edging near an £80million move on a five-year deal, perhaps next month.
      But it’s been more than a year since the move first appeared likely.
      And it’s even been suggested United fans will have sprouted beards akin to some of football’s most famous hairy faces, like ex-Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo.
      Load more entries… More

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Brazil 1 Ecuador 1 LIVE REACTION: Brazil winning run ends as Mena’s goal cancels out Militao’s opener

      by

      BRAZIL return to Copa America action looking to make it four wins from four.Neymar and Co have already secured qualification into the knockout stages, but will be keen to make a clean-sweep of the group with victory over Ecuador.

      Start time: 10pm GMT
      TV/Live stream: BBC Red Button
      Brazil XI: Alisson, Emerson, Eder Militao, Marquinhos, Renan Lodi, Lucas Paqueta, Fabinho, Douglas Luiz, Firmino, Gabi, Everton
      Ecuador XI: Galindez, Preciado, Arboleda, Palacios, Hincapie, Caicedo, Mendez, Franco, Estupinan, Preciado, Valencia

      CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED

      Stay up to date with all the action in our live blog…
      REPORT
      BRAZIL’S ten-game winning run came to an end after plucky Ecuador earned a draw in the final Copa America group game in Goiania.
      Coach Tite made ten changes from the midweek win over Colombia as Neymar, Casemiro, Thiago Silva and Richarlison were rested.
      The reigning champions had already booked their spot in the next round as group winners, while their opponents had to better Venezuela’s score to remain in the competition.
      Neymar was rested
      And it was nearly the perfect start for Selecao as Renan Lodi broke clear down the left and looked to be bundled over inside the box within the opening minute. The referee and VAR disagreed.
      Brighton’s Moises Caicedo was then stretchered off on 17 minutes with a knee injury in a blow to Ecuador, with Angel Mena coming on.
      Then almost goal of the tournament from Ecuador skipper Enner Valencia.
      He spotted Alisson off his line and sent a shot from the halfway line goalwards and with the Liverpool keeper losing his footing as he retreated to his line, he was glad to see it land on the roof of his net.
      Brazil then had big chances through Gabi with a 1v1 attempt which Galindez rushed off his line to prevent before Lucas Paqueta sent a shot inches wide from the edge of the area.
      But they did break the deadlock on 37 minutes when Everton’s free kick from wide on the right was met by the towering Eder Militao who powered a header back where it came from and into the top corner. His first goal for Brazil.
      Militao and Brazil celebrate the opener
      Ecuador came out the traps quickest in the second half and Angelo Preciado had a shot deflected wide, as did Valencia who went close with an effort shortly after.
      But they were rewarded for their pressure just eight minutes into the half.
      An initial Ecuadorian corner was headed clear by the Brazil defence but it was helped back into the box by three consecutive Ecuador headers.
      The final one by Valencia helped the ball into the box and into the path of substitute Angel Mena and he couldn’t miss as he smashed beyond Alisson from six yards.
      Angel Mena and Ecuador celebrate the equaliser
      Tite made changes late in the game and Vinicius Jr nearly had his first Brazil goal but he couldn’t stretch enough to finish off a clever move and great Lucas Paqueta cross, knocking it wide.
      Enner Valencia was then the second Ecuador player to be stretchered off as he felt his calf with ten minutes to go.
      Then in the final few minutes, Richarlison had a big claim for a penalty as Pervis Estupinan bundled into him inside the area.
      Again, the referee and VAR were untroubled.
      The draw, alongside Venezuela’s defeat to Peru, mean Ecuador join Brazil in the final eight, with Neymar and co still warm favourites to lift the trophy once again.
      HAPPY TO BE HERE
      Ecuador fight to a big point in Brazil.
      And they seem to be pleased with it!

      FINAL STATS
      A complete transformation from the first half as Ecuador created more chances in the game.
      Credit: Flashscore
      FINAL STANDINGS
      How Group B looks after everyone has played.
      Venezuela’s defeat means they are out.
      Brazil through as group winners.

      FULL-TIME: BRAZIL 1 ECUADOR 1
      Substitute Angel Mena earned the visitors a draw with his second-half strike cancelling out Eder Militao’s opener.
      They needed the point to stay in the competition and were good value for it.
      Brazil already through as group winners and had the luxury of resting Neymar.
      Neymar on the bench
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
      FULL-TIME IN BRAZIL: BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      90+4′ Everton Ribeiro takes it himself and it doesn’t clear the first man.
      Dear oh dear.
      Ecuador keeper Galindez
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      90+3′ Everton Ribeiro skips by Pineida on the left and has his shirt tugged.
      It’s a free kick just outside the area wide on the left.
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      FIVE MINUTES ADDED
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      90′ The ball in is met by Marquinhos but he heads over.
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      90′ Richarlison goes down lookign for a penalty as Estupinan challenges for a bouncing ball inside the area.
      It looked clumsy but the referee waves play on.
      Everton Ribeiro sends a deep ball into the box which is headed behind for a corner.
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      87′ Estupinan breaks down the Ecuador left.
      He digs out a cross towards the penalty spot and Campana rises between the centre backs but can’t get a good purchase on the header and it rolls harmlessly wide.
      Emerson and Estupinan challenge
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      86′ Ecuador playing for the point as they know it should now be enough to secure their spot in the next round.
      Preciado then bursts forward down the right and he lays on a perfect cross across the Brazil area but Campana can’t get on the end of it.
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      Double Ecuador change:

      OFF – Valencia and Preciado
      ON – Campana and Pineida

      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      83′ Richarlison wiped out down the Brazil right and Estupinan picks up the games first YELLOW CARD.
      It’s a long way out this free kick on the touchline.
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      81′ Enner Valencia goes down in the middle of the park and is gesturing that he needs to come off.
      The stretcher is on the park to take the Ecuador skipper off.
      Hopefully nothing too serious. The game restarts with Ecuador down to ten men temporarily.
      Vinicius Jr strikes wide
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      81′ Fabinho heads clear at the front post.
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      80′ Close! An ambitious effort if he meant it as the whipped in delivery looks to creep under the bar of the Brazil keeper.
      But Alisson tips it over for a corner.
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      79′ A dangerous chance here for Ecuador, a free kick wide on the right.
      Six blue shirts in the box.
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      Brazil double change:

      OFF – Everton and Lucas Paqueta
      ON – Everton Ribeiro and Richarlison

      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      75′ More changes in the offing for Brazil with 15 minutes to play.
      Great play from Angel Mena as he beats four challenges down the right to win the throw in for Ecuador in the final third.
      Alisson charged down by Enner Valencia
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      71′ Ecuador substitution:

      OFF – Palacios
      ON – Plata

      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      70′ It’s in towards Militao again but this time it’s well defended by three in blue shirts.
      But the changes for Brazil have helped turn the tide in the last few minutes.
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      69′ The ball in is too deep and Mena collects.
      He goes down under the pressure of Fabinho and the free kick goes against him, presumably for handball.
      25 yards from goal, on the touchline on the left.
      Angel Mena gets Ecuador level
      BRAZIL 1-1 ECUADOR
      68′ Vinicius Jr with a no-look pass into Paqueta in the box who finds Casemiro out on the left.
      His deep ball into the area is attacked by Emerson who wins a corner.
      Load more entries… More

    • 250 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Euro 2020 LIVE: Holland OUT after Czech defeat, Belgium BEAT Portugal to set up Italy clash, England vs Germany build-up

      by

      EURO 2020 is rolling on at pace as we continue in the knockout stages.And England will have a home advantage like never before, with no fans from Germany able to travel to Wembley.
      That also means the Three Lions will be given 17 thousand extra tickets for Tuesday’s game.
      Meanwhile Gareth Bale stormed out of an interview following Wales’ 4-0 loss to Denmark after being asked whether he would retire.
      CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED
      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      HURST: BEAT GERMANY AND WIN EUROS
      England legend Sir Geoff Hurst told Gareth Southgate’s young lions: “Beat Germany and you’ll go on and win it!”
      The hero, whose hat-trick conquered our old foe in 1966, lined up with The Sun’s mascot Harry Mane — and also had advice for England’s star striker.

      He said: “There’s nothing quite like an England versus Germany game at Wembley and the hairs still stand up on the back of my neck every time it happens.
      “It’s a massive, massive game — one of those do-or-die occasions which will produce moments we’ll never forget.
      “German teams never give up and we have a hell of a fight on our hands. But this time it’s a fight we can win — and once we clear this obstacle it’ll take a hell of a team to stop us.”
      A win tomorrow will send England to Rome for a quarter-final with Sweden or Ukraine. Another victory would tee up a semi-final back at Wembley against either Denmark or Czech Republic.
      PAY JUDE
      Jude Bellingham will be celebrating on Tuesday regardless of the result at Wembley.
      On the day England look to overcome Germany in the last-16 at Wembley, Bellingham turns 18.
      And on this special birthday he will also have his contract at Borussia Dortmund extended by a further two years until 2025.
      It is remarkable that Bellingham, who played 36 times for Dortmund last season, is already preparing for what would be his seventh senior cap tomorrow.
      Over in Germany, there has been much discussion over Gareth Southgate’s refusal to give Bundesliga golden boy Jadon Sancho a single minute until the dying stages of their final  group match.
      In contrast, Bellingham has already made two appearances as a substitute and is likely to play some part against the Germans tomorrow.
      SHAW: JOSE OBSESSED WITH ME
      Luke Shaw has accused his ex-Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho of being obsessed with him.
      The England defender, preparing for Tuesday’s Euro 2020 last-16 clash with Germany, is stunned he is still being criticised by his former boss at Manchester United.
      Mourinho criticised Shaw for his “dramatically bad” and “poor” set-pieces in the 1-0 win over Czech Republic.
      Shaw, 25, said: “There is no hiding that we didn’t get on. It is time to move on. I am trying to move on but, obviously, he can’t.
      “Hopefully he can find his peace with that and finally move and stop worrying about me. Clearly I am in his head a lot and he clearly thinks about me a lot.
      “I don’t really understand it, to be honest. I don’t know why he is still going on and wanting to point at me. I don’t feel like the set pieces were as bad as he was saying.
      “Look, he has got to do his job. He has got his opinion. I am used to him saying negative stuff about me now, so I just pass it by.
      “I leave it be, I ignore it. I just focus on what the coaching staff say here, what Gareth says and that’s that, really.”
      TRIPPIER, FODEN AND MOUNT TIPPED TO START
      Roy Keane expects Gareth Southgate to recall Kieran Trippier, Phil Foden and Mason Mount for Tuesday’s showdown with Germany.
      Joachim Low’s side travel to Wembley for the 5pm kick-off and Keane believes England will trust their regular starters.
      All three started in the win over Croatia that opened the Three Lions’ tournament.
      He told ITV: “Maybe with Maguire that’ll be the only change, and go back to the first game against Croatia.
      “We’re on about these young players doing very well in the last one or two games.
      “But Gareth, as the manager, you still go back to the lads who got you over the line over the last year or two.
      “So it wouldn’t surprise me if Gareth went back to the team, obviously with Maguire available, for the first game against Croatia.
      “There’s question marks about maybe Trippier coming back in. The set-piece delivery has been really poor, maybe they go back to Trippier for that.”
      IS THAT RON’S MAJOR TOURNAMENT GOODBYE?
      Speculation is mounting on whether Portugal’s Eruos exit is the final hurrah for legend Cristiano Ronaldo in major international tournaments.
      Belgium superstar Romelu Lukaku seemed to show the Juventus frontman extra respect afterwards.

      Credit: Reuters
      Credit: Getty

      RESULT: BELGIUM 1 PORTUGAL 0
      Cristiano Ronaldo looked devastated as defending champions Portugal crashed out – despite heavy late pressure.
      For reaction on this last-16 tie follow our live match blog HERE.
      BELGIUM 1 PORTUGAL 0: NOW IT’S OPENING UP
      Two great chances for Portugal as they turn on the pressure late on.
      Belgium keeper Thibaut Courtois brilliantly foiled centre-back Ruben Dias’ header.
      Then Raphael Guerreiro volleyed off the post.
      For up-to-the-minute news on this last-16 tie follow our live match blog HERE.
      BELGIUM CLINGING ON
      Cristiano Ronaldo and Co are toiling hard but struggling to create chances as they try to cancel out Thorgan Hazard’s superb opener for Belgium.
      For up-to-the-minute news on this last-16 tie follow our live match blog HERE.
      Credit: AFP
      MARTIAL AND VAN DE BEEK AT RISK
      France striker Anthony Martial and Holland midfielder Donny van de Beek are reportedly at risk of summer exits from Manchester United.
      Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      But Old Trafford boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will not offload frontline players unless he gets a decent price.
      That’s the claim from the Mail On Sunday as United prepare for a major summer shake-up.
      KDB CROCK SHOCK
      Belgium have been dealt a huge Euro 2020 blow after Kevin de Bruyne was forced off injured against Portugal.
      The Manchester City playmaker was clattered into in the first half by Palhinha.

      It was obviously De Bruyne was struggling, but he somehow made it through to half-time, and even came out for the second 45.
      But that lasted just 90 SECONDS before he was replaced by Dries Mertens.
      De Bruyne had to be helped off the field by Roberto Martinez who, provided Belgium get through, will be anxious at the thought of losing the world class star.
      UTD TO OFFER LINGARD 3-YEAR DEAL
      West Ham loan star Jesse Lingard is tipped for a new three-year Manchester United contract.
      The England midfielder, 28, just missed out on Gareth Southgate’s 26-man Euros squad after nine goals in 16 games for the Hammers.
      Credit: Ryan Browne-The Guardian
      KEANE CHEEKY DIG AT GUNNERS
      Roy Keane heaped praise on Bukayo Saka but also aimed criticism at Arsenal while doing so.
      The ITV pundit was discussing Saka, 19, alongside Ian Wright, who applauded Saka’s “glorious pace”.

      And former Manchester United star Keane was equally as complimentary towards the youngster.
      But he could ignore old rivalries, bashing Arsenal in his assessment of Saka.
      In ITV’s pre-match coverage of Belgium vs Portgual, Keane said: “He’s been playing well in a poor Arsenal team.”
      But Keane is accurate in his view, as the Gunners underperformed last season, finishing the campaign without a trophy.
      Mikel Arteta’s side finished eighth in the Premier League and perhaps the most disappointing moment came in the Europa League semi-final exit to Villareal.
      And despite their problems Saka still shone, scoring seven and assisting ten goals in all competitions.
      H/T: BELGIUM 1 HOLLAND 0
      Thorgan Hazard’s right-foot arrow separates these two giants at the interval.
      For up-to-the-minute news on this last-16 tie follow our live match blog HERE.
      Credit: EPA
      Credit: Reuters

      LATEST: BELGIUM 1 HOLLAND 0
      Thorgan Hazard dipped a top-scorner screamer to put the Belgians in front after 42 minutes.
      For up-to-the-minute news on this last-16 tie follow our live match blog HERE.
      LATEST: BELGIUM 0 PORTUGAL 0
      The hype hasn’t been matched by the reality so far… with Belgium quite cautious.
      But at least Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo has notched up some more fascinating stats.

      The Juventus frontman has single-handedly attempted more efforts on goals from free-kicks than any NATIONAL TEAM at the Ruros since 2004.
      His total of 27 is six ahead of ‘second-placed’ Italy.
      For up-to-the-minute news follow our live match blog HERE.
      LATEST: BELGIUM 0 PORTUGAL 0
      Arguably the biggest game of the tournament so far – and it’s been a cagy start so far.
      For up-to-the-minute news follow our live match blog HERE.

      Portugal’s Man City wideman Bernardo Silva tried to fend off Belgium’s Borussia Dortmund star Thorgan HazardCredit: Getty
      SERGE OF SUCCESS IN LONDON
      Ex-Arsenal player Serge Gnabry took a dig at both of the Gunners’ London rivals, Tottenham and Chelsea, ahead of Germany’s clash with England at Wembley.
      Bayern Munich wideman Gnabry devastated both sides last year in the Champions League and led his team to the top of Europe.
      Germany winger Serge Gnabry and Co are warming up for England on Tuesday
      Gnabry told Bayern’s official website: “So far I’ve done very well when I’ve come back to London, hopefully on Tuesday as well.
      “For me, there’s always a lot of history when we go to England because I still have some friends there as well. Hopefully they’ll be in the stadium.
      “I’ve never played at Wembley before. I personally and we as a team are really looking forward to the game”
      LION IN WAIT EXPECTANTLY
      England could now have a DREAM route to Wembley glory next month… if they survive Tuesday’s last-16 clash with Germany.
      Holland’s shock defeat to the Czech Republic on Sunday has made it even better.

      Gareth Southgate led the Three Lions to victories over Croatia and the Czechs, with a hard-fought draw over Scotland sandwiched in between.
      If England can break with tradition and KO Germany, they face a quarter-final with either Sweden, who surprisingly pipped Spain to top spot in Group E, or 3rd-place qualifiers Ukraine.
      The semi-final would be against either Wales’ conquerors Denmark or the Czechs again, after they stunned remaining ‘giant’ in the Three Lions’ half, Holland, on Sunday.
      That leaves favourites France in the other half of the draw, along with giants Portugal, Belgium, Italy and Spain.
      If all goes well, England could be facing one of them at the end of the glorious summer, in the final at Wembley on July 11.
      LIONS HAPPY TO BE ON THE SPOT
      Gareth Southgate is relying on the penalty plan that broke England’s shootout curse ahead of facing Germany at Euro 2020.
      The Three Lions had won only one of their seven tournament shootouts before the former defender took charge.
      England won a World Cup shootout for the first time vs Colombia in 2018
      Southgate says England are well prepared for a penalty with a process that works for them
      And yet, as the man who infamously missed his kick against Germany at Euro 96, Southgate has pioneered back-to-back victories when spot-kicks were required.
      Eric Dier fired home the winner in a dramatic last-16 win over Colombia at the 2018 World Cup. Jordan Pickford was the hero in 2019’s Nations League third place play-off beating of Switzerland.
      Southgate told ITV: “We’ve obviously won our last two penalty shootouts. So we have a process that works for us through that preparation and we’ve followed that same process.
      “There’s a little bit more focus on it this week but we don’t start it this week as that would be too late, and also we didn’t want to make a bigger thing of it than it is.
      “We created a process that works for us, we think the players understand that and we’ll be well prepared if it comes to that moment.”
      WHAT A BOER FOR HOLLAND
      TEN-MAN Holland’s miserable 2-0 exit against the Czech Republic included some shocking stats about their lack of punch in attack.

      Here’s one – which is also an extra painful reminder of Holland manager Frank de Boer’s shocking 10-week reign at Crystal Palace.
      The Dutchman was sacked after losing all four of his Premier League games at the start of 2017-18… without scoring.
      WE WON’T TRIPP UP ON SET-PIECES
      Kieran Trippier says England have been spending hours working on their set-pieces in the hope of unleashing them on Germany on Tuesday.
      England believe set-pieces could be a major factor against GermanyCredit: PA

      Boss Gareth Southgate criticised his side’s lack of threat from dead-ball situations in the group stages and claimed it was something they needed to brush up on.
      And Trippier admits the manager has been true to his word by getting the Three Lions to practice hard on improving their delivery from corners and free-kicks.
      The Atletico Madrid defender said: “We have set the bar high over the last couple of years with the set-pieces and the amount of goals we have scored.
      “We are a bit frustrated with not scoring as many goals as we thought we would from set-plays, but we have got fantastic people who can take set-pieces – Mason, Phil, Bukayo, myself who can put the money on the spot.
      “Obviously we have been working on it and whoever is playing an in line to take set-pieces, we will back anybody.
      “We know as players when we hit the first man that we know we can do better. Luke is another one who has a fantastic delivery.”
      LLORENTE: ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN
      Manchester United target Marcos Llorente has opened up over his future and admitted ‘anything can happen’.
      The Red Devils are known to be huge admirers of the Atletico Madrid star, having first targeted the Spain midfielder in January 2020.

      The 26-year-old scored 12 goals and provided 11 assists as Diego Simeone’s side won the LaLiga title last season.
      His fine form hasn’t gone unnoticed, and United were reportedly set to turn their interest into a formal offer in March.
      United were previously linked with launching a £68million bid ahead of Euro 2020.
      Llorente, who has three years left on his deal at the Wanda Metropolitano, has hinted that he is prepared to stay in Spain.
      But in an interview with AS, the Spanish international added that ‘anything’ can happen in football’.
      He said: “I have many years left (on my contract). My idea is to stay, I’m fine, I’m happy at Atletico Madrid.
      “We have had a great season winning La Liga. Anything can happen in football, but I don’t think about that kind of thing. I am happy and now I am with the national team.
      CZECHS COULD FACE ENGLAND IN SEMIS
      Surprise winners the Czech Republic put themselves one game away from a possible semi-final clash with England – assuming both sides get that far.
      For reaction to the Czechs’ 2-0 win over Holland go to our live match blog HERE.
      The Czech Republic hail their shock 2-0 win over Holland

      RESULT: HOLLAND 0 CZECH REPUBLIC 2
      Matthijs de Ligt’s red card sent the Dutch spinning to a shock exit – Tomas Holes and Patrik Schick netting in the last 22 minutes for the Czechs.
      For reaction follow our live match blog HERE.
      HOLLAND HEADING OUT
      LATEST: HOLLAND 0 CZECH REPUBLIC 2 – Patrik Schick virtually ended Dutch hopes at Euro 2020 by pouncing for the Czechs’ close-range second goal on 80 minutes.
      For all the action follow our live match blog HERE.
      Load more entries… More

    • 238 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Cavani recommends Man Utd sign De La Cruz, Varane ‘wants £400k in wages’, Sancho ‘tells team-mates he’s joining United’

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly keeping tabs on Uruguayan international Nicolas De La Cruz – after a recommendation from Edinson Cavani.We’ve also got the very latest on Raphael Varane, with the Red Devils reportedly unable to match his £400k-a-week demands.
      And Jadon Sancho has told team-mates in the England camp he’s heading to Old Trafford this summer.
      CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED
      Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
      SHAW: JOSE OBSESSED WITH ME
      Luke Shaw has accused his ex-Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho of being obsessed with him.
      The England defender, preparing for Tuesday’s Euro 2020 last-16 clash with Germany, is stunned he is still being criticised by his former boss at Manchester United.
      Mourinho criticised Shaw for his “dramatically bad” and “poor” set-pieces in the 1-0 win over Czech Republic.
      Shaw, 25, said: “There is no hiding that we didn’t get on. It is time to move on. I am trying to move on but, obviously, he can’t.
      “Hopefully he can find his peace with that and finally move and stop worrying about me. Clearly I am in his head a lot and he clearly thinks about me a lot.
      “I don’t really understand it, to be honest. I don’t know why he is still going on and wanting to point at me. I don’t feel like the set pieces were as bad as he was saying.
      “Look, he has got to do his job. He has got his opinion. I am used to him saying negative stuff about me now, so I just pass it by.
      “I leave it be, I ignore it. I just focus on what the coaching staff say here, what Gareth says and that’s that, really.”
      SOME-VING SPECIAL
      Rennes wonderkid Eduardo Camavinga is reportedly on Manchester United’s summer wishlist.
      That is according to the Daily Mail, who claim United will battle Premier League rivals Arsenal for Camavinga.
      The Red Devils are closing in on top target Jadon Sancho and are already thinking ahead.
      However, the talented French midfielder has also attracted interest from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

      MARTIAL AND VAN DE BEEK AT RISK
      France striker Anthony Martial and Holland midfielder Donny van de Beek are reportedly at risk of summer exits from Manchester United.
      Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      But Old Trafford boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will not offload frontline players unless he gets a decent price.
      That’s the claim from the Mail On Sunday as United prepare for a major summer shake-up.
      UTD TO OFFER LINGARD 3-YEAR DEAL
      West Ham loan star Jesse Lingard is tipped for a new three-year Manchester United contract.
      The England midfielder, 28, just missed out on Gareth Southgate’s 26-man Euros squad after nine goals in 16 games for the Hammers.
      Credit: Ryan Browne-The Guardian
      KEANE CHEEKY DIG AT GUNNERS
      Roy Keane heaped praise on Bukayo Saka but also aimed criticism at Arsenal while doing so.
      The ITV pundit was discussing Saka, 19, alongside Ian Wright, who applauded Saka’s “glorious pace”.

      And former Manchester United star Keane was equally as complimentary towards the youngster.
      But he could ignore old rivalries, bashing Arsenal in his assessment of Saka.
      In ITV’s pre-match coverage of Belgium vs Portgual, Keane said: “He’s been playing well in a poor Arsenal team.”
      But Keane is accurate in his view, as the Gunners underperformed last season, finishing the campaign without a trophy.
      Mikel Arteta’s side finished eighth in the Premier League and perhaps the most disappointing moment came in the Europa League semi-final exit to Villareal.
      And despite their problems Saka still shone, scoring seven and assisting ten goals in all competitions.
      JADED SANCHO SAGA
      Old Trafford legend Gary Neville says Jadon Sancho (apparently) joining United is the most boring transfer saga he’s ever known – and many on social media agree.

      The latest news seems to be Borussia Dortmund’s England attacker edging near an £80million move on a five-year deal, perhaps next month.
      But it’s been more than a year since the move first appeared likely.
      And it’s even been suggested United fans will have sprouted beards akin to some of football’s most famous hairy faces, like ex-Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo.
      LLORENTE: ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN
      Manchester United target Marcos Llorente has opened up over his future and admitted ‘anything can happen’.
      The Red Devils are known to be huge admirers of the Atletico Madrid star, having first targeted the Spain midfielder in January 2020.

      The 26-year-old scored 12 goals and provided 11 assists as Diego Simeone’s side won the LaLiga title last season.
      His fine form hasn’t gone unnoticed, and United were reportedly set to turn their interest into a formal offer in March.
      United were previously linked with launching a £68million bid ahead of Euro 2020.
      Llorente, who has three years left on his deal at the Wanda Metropolitano, has hinted that he is prepared to stay in Spain.
      But in an interview with AS, the Spanish international added that ‘anything’ can happen in football’.
      He said: “I have many years left (on my contract). My idea is to stay, I’m fine, I’m happy at Atletico Madrid.
      “We have had a great season winning La Liga. Anything can happen in football, but I don’t think about that kind of thing. I am happy and now I am with the national team.
      SANCHO: I’M A BIG GAME PLAYER
      Manchester United target has told boss Gareth Southgate he DOES have the major tournament experience to be let off the leash for England.
      Southgate suggested Sancho was only on the fringes of his plans because he was playing in his first international tournament.

      But the 21-year-old claims three years of Champions League football with Borussia Dortmund shows he can be trusted at the top level – and says he is desperate to be let loose on a Germany side he knows well.
      Sancho said: “To be fair, I feel like because I’ve been playing Champions League in the last three years, I feel like that’s a major tournament. I know what it takes.
      “Game by game it’s always going to be tough, especially when you proceed to the next rounds, and that experience alone has helped me.
      “Coming to another tournament I just see it as just like another Champions League.”
      England’s Dortmund star Jadon Sancho is hoping for a bigger role against Germany
      JADON ‘TOLD DORTMUND PALS HE’S OFF TO UTD’
      Borussia Dortmund ace Jadon Sancho has told his England team-mates that he’s ‘heading to Old Trafford’, according to reports.
      SunSport revealed earlier this month that Sancho has agreed a five-year, £350,000-a-week deal to join Manchester United.
      According to Tom McDermott, Sancho has confirmed to his Three Lions mates that he’s definitely off to United.
      He adds that the deal is ‘practically done’ and that issues over add-ons have been ‘ironed out’
      FOFANA’S A REAL OPTION TO REPLACE VARANE
      Leicester centre-back Wesley Fofana has emerged as a target for Real Madrid to replace Raphael Varane should Manchester United sign the Frenchman.
      The 20-year-old starred in his debut season in England after joining the Foxes in a £36.5million deal from Saint-Etienne last year.
      Fofana featured 38 times under Brendan Rodgers as he helped Leicester finish fifth in the Premier League while also proving instrumental in their FA Cup-winning run.
      And according to Fichajes, he could be on his way out of the King Power Stadium with Carlo Ancelotti said to be eyeing a swoop for the youngster.
      However they state the potential move depends on whether Los Blancos sell Varane, with the World Cup winner heavily linked with a switch to Old Trafford.
      It has been claimed that the four-time Champions League winner, 28, is keen on linking up with the Red Devils.
      Varane has just one year left on his contract in Spain and it remains to be seen whether he will follow Sergio Ramos out the door this summer.
      UTD ED QUEUE FOR CAMAVINGA
      Manchester United have been linked with a move for Rennes wonderkid Eduardo Camavinga.
      That is according to the Daily Mail, who claim United will battle Premier League rivals Arsenal for Camavinga.
      The Red Devils are closing in on top target Jadon Sancho and are already thinking ahead.
      However, the talented French midfielder has also attracted interest from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain
      MAKE WAY
      England and Manchester United record goalscorer Wayne Rooney has shared some advice for Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate ahead of Tuesday’s clash with Germany.
      Rooney wrote in his column at The Times: “After all my championing of Jack Grealish, I wouldn’t play him from the start against Germany.
      “‘He was one of England’s better players against the Czech Republic and it is not that my opinion of him has changed. My thinking is entirely down to how the Germans play. Different opponents demand different approaches and Tuesday’s game is tailor-made for Marcus Rashford — but not Jack.
      “Germany play three at the back with a high line and what they try to do is almost suffocate you. They pass side to side, get the ball in wide areas, come back and go all the way out to the other flank, then get balls into the penalty area. And when you win it, they want you to play a pass to feet because that means — with their line pushed right up — they can go and press you high up the pitch.
      “The more players you have who want to take the ball to feet, the more they can press, so instead of Jack I’d be looking to have runners either side of Harry Kane. My instruction would be to attack the spaces behind their wing backs when they go forward and make runs down the channels to the sides of their centre backs — especially given Mats Hummels’s problems against pace”
      CAMAVINGA AGENT REACTS
      Rennes ace Eduardo Camavinga’s agent Jonathan Barnett has hinted that the star midfielder could be among his clients set for a big move amid interest from Manchester United and Arsenal.
      Barnett told The Athletic: “It is going to be harder. I’m expecting three or four very big deals of my own that will break a lot of records.
      “Hopefully, they’ll come about. For the smaller clubs, I think there won’t be as many transfers. We have some very good players.
      “We have probably the best young player in the world in Camavinga. We’ve got [Jack] Grealish. We’ve got [Ibrahima] Konate at Leipzig. But then I’ve got over 100 players”
      CAMAVINGA SITUATION
      Rennes star Eduardo Camavinga’s agent has hinted that his client could be on the move during this summer transfer window.
      Camavinga enjoyed a tremendous campaign in Ligue 1 and has thus attracted interest from some of Europe’s top bidders, such as Manchester United, Arsenal, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
      Reports suggest the star midfielder will be United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s transfer priority after Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho signs with the club.
      According to The Athletic, the France international’s representative, Jonathan Barnett, who also represents Luke Shaw and other elite players, has hinted that the 18-year-old could be on the move this summer
      CAMAVINGA BOOST
      Fabrizio Romano claims Arsenal haven’t made an official bid for Rennes star Eduardo Camavinga.
      In fact, there has been absolutely no contact between the player and the Gunners.
      That works as a boost for Manchester United, who are set to meet up with the midfielder’s reps next week.
      More below:
      Arsenal now working to sell players, then… new signings soon. ⚪️🔴 #AFCGuendouzi wants to join OM, Xhaka deal with AS Roma at final stages. Price tag around €20m for Bellerin, same for Torreira [not advanced with Lazio].Camavinga-Arsenal: there’s nothing, not even talks.— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 27, 2021

      FERN BELIEF
      Portugal manager Fernando Santos has hinted that Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes could return to the starting line-up against Belgium despite his disappointing performances against Germany and Hungary.
      Santos said: “We will play according to our principles. We may change some players. Last match, we changed some things but because we felt that thinking of the opponent, but not just that, and about ourselves.
      “We wanted to establish our own pattern. I wanted to bring in new blood to the midfield section. Tomorrow, I don’t think that will be an issue because we have had plenty of rest over the past four days.
      “Today [Saturday], we have the last training session, we never know what is going to happen. We don’t know if everyone will be fit”
      NEVILLE’S BORE-DON
      Gary Neville has had enough of the Jadon Sancho transfer saga…
      Neville tweeted: “Manchester United closing in on Sancho. Again!
      “A transfer should be a joy and a moment of excitement.
      “I’ve never been more bored by a transfer in my life to the point I feel like he’s already signed and I want to know who is next already. Not the lads [sic] fault at all I should say!”
      Manchester United Closing in on Sancho Again! A transfer should be a joy and a moment of excitement . I’ve never been more bored by a transfer in my life to the point I feel like he’s already signed and I want to know who is next already. Not the lads fault at all I should say!— Gary Neville (@GNev2) June 26, 2021

      WHAT’S NEXT?
      England face bitter rivals Germany on Tuesday in Euro 2020’s Last 16.
      This encounter brings back plenty of bad memories for the Three Lions, who will look to exorcise the demons of the past against Joachim Low’s men.
      If Gareth Southgate’s side emerges victorious then the quarter-finals are next.
      And that is where various Manchester United stars and their English team-mates will face either Ukraine or Sweden
      CAMAVINGA UPDATE
      Manchester United are going to meet with Rennes player Eduardo Camavinga’s reps next week.
      That is according to RMC, who claim United are stepping up their interest for Camavinga after an impressive season in Ligue 1.
      That poses as a blow for Arsenal, who have also been keeping tabs on the France international who has been hailed as the “new Patrick Vieira”.
      Gunners head coach Mikel Arteta is determined to sign a top midfielder to team up with Thomas Partey in the middle of the park
      GETTY IMAGES
      KOUND NOT HAPPEN
      Sevilla have reportedly turned down a €45million (£37m) bid for Jules Kounde.
      That is according to the Transfer Window Podcast, who claim Kounde is keen on a move this summer.
      However, the star centre-back would prefer to join Real Madrid over any other suitor, such as Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham.
      United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is determined to sign a top centre-back in the summer to partner up with Harry Maguire at the back
      CAM AND GET HIM
      Manchester United have been linked with a move for Rennes wonderkid Eduardo Camavinga.
      That is according to the Daily Mail, who claim United will battle Premier League rivals Arsenal for Camavinga.
      The Red Devils are closing in on top target Jadon Sancho and are already thinking ahead.
      However, the talented French midfielder has also attracted interest from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain
      DE-RIBBLE SIGNING
      Former Manchester City and Liverpool player Paul Stewart has criticised Donny van de Beek’s debut season at Manchester United.
      Stewart told the Transfer Tavern: “Van de Beek has not really proved anything in the Premier League yet, has he?
      “I thought when he was coming to United, he was going to be a really great acquisition.
      “Normally they come out of Ajax and they’re straight on the scene and they’re great players”
      VARANE REPLACEMENT
      Manchester United have received a major transfer boost in their bid to sign Real Madrid ace Raphael Varane.
      According to Fijaches, Real are preparing for life after Varane, it seems, and have identified Leicester ace Wesley Fofana as a potential replacement.
      Manager Carlo Ancelotti was impressed with Fofana during his time in the Premier League while in charge of Everton.
      Varane has been linked with a switch to Manchester United and the centre-back is keen on that move
      TRANSFER BOOST
      Brighton star defender Ben White was linked with Manchester United recently following a string of impressive Premier League performances that led to an England call-up.
      United head coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is determined to sign a top centre-back to partner up with Harry Maguire at the back.
      According to Manchester Evening News, however, the Red Devils were not willing to meet his £50million asking price and are thus focusing their efforts on other defensive targets.
      That paves the way for Arsenal to land their man as they are willing to splash the cash for the 23-year-old defender
      GETTY IMAGES
      VARANE UPDATE
      Manchester United could face a potential setback in their bid to sign Real Madrid star Raphael Varane.
      That is according to The Independent, who claim Varane’s rumoured £400,000-a-week wage demands are said to be a stumbling block.
      The France international, though, is keen to move to Old Trafford in the summer transfer window.
      The star defender is among Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s top centre-back targets as he looks for someone to partner up with Harry Maguire in defence
      Load more entries… More

    • 238 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Belgium 1 Portugal 0 LIVE REACTION: Hazard screamer seals Euro 2020 quarter-final berth for Red Devils – latest updates

      by

      BELGIUM sealed their spot in the Euro 2020 quarter-finals with a closely-fought 1-0 win over Portugal tonight in Seville.Thorgan Hazard notched Belgium’s only goal of the game in the first half when he rifled home from 25 yards to seal a last eight tie with Italy.

      RESULT: Belgium 1 Portugal 0
      Belgium XI: 1 Courtois; 2 Alderweireld, 5 Vertonghen, 3 Vermaelen; 15 Meunier, 8 Tielemans, 6 Witsel, 16 T.Hazard; 7 De Bruyne, 9 Lukaku, 10 E.Hazard
      Portugal XI: Rui Patricio, 20 Dalot, 3 Pepe, 4 Ruben Dias, 5 Guerreriro, 26 Palhinha, 8 Moutinho, 16 Sanches, 10 Silva, 7 Ronaldo, 21 Jota

      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…

      CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED

      THAT’S A WRAP IN SEVILLE
      So in what was supposed to be arguably the tie of the round ended up only coming to life late in the first half.
      Defending champions Portugal started off strongly and had Belgium on the back foot but they were just unable to take their chances.
      And when it looked as if Fernando Santos’ side were going to go in at half time the happier side of the two, Thorgan Hazard popped up with a screamer two minutes shy of the interval.
      To be fair to Portugal, they did give it a good go in the second 45 which was proven when the statistics showed that they recorded a total of 23 shots.
      The most in a single game this tournament.
      It’s just a shame that they weren’t able to convert one of them into goals because now their Euro defence is over.
      No record breaking goal for Ronaldo and no back-to-back trophy for Os Navegadores.
      Thank you for tuning in people. I hope you have a good sleep and an even better start to the week tomorrow!

      PANIC STATIONS
      One of the only negatives for Belgium is the injury to Kevin De Bruyne who was forced off early in the second half following a reckless challenge by Joao Palhinha.
      CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT THE DETAILS OF WHAT HAPPENED.
      EUROS RESULTS
      Wow! What a round of results we have recently been treated to at the Euros.
      The Welsh Dragons were slain yesterday by the Danes who put four past them with no reply.
      Austria took the Italians to extra time but fell short at the very last hurdle losing 2-1 on the night.
      The Netherlands were surprisingly beat 2-0 in Baku by the Czech Republic after going a man down.
      And Belgium’s golden generation have knocked out Euro 2016 winners Portugal to set up a mouth-watering quarter-final tie against Italy.
      MOTM
      And it makes sense that Thorgan Hazard takes all the plaudits for his goal that rocketed the Belgians into the quarter-finals.

      WARNING HAZARD AHEAD!
      Just in case my explanation of how superb Thorgan Hazard’s winning goal wasn’t good enough.
      Take a look for yourself.

      RUDE ROY
      Roy Keane wasn’t impressed with Joao Felix’ attitude when he came on the pitch to try and rescue the nation.
      Listen to what the Manchester United legend had to say.
      It wouldn’t be quite Keane if he never spoke what was on his mind.
      “That guy’s an imposter! He’s an imposter! Your country needs you. He comes on – hit the target! £100million?! If I was Ronaldo, I’d be going after him in the dressing room. Shocking!” 😡Roy Keane is not 𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥 impressed with Joao Felix 💥#ITVFootball | #Euro2020 pic.twitter.com/d7tpGUYXDl— ITV Football (@itvfootball) June 27, 2021

      FULL 90 STATS
      It turned out to be a real backs to the wall mission for Belgium with the Portuguese dominating the possession, passing and shooting statistics.
      However, Roberto Martinez’ men managed to hold on and escape Seville to land a quarter-finals spot.

      BATTLING BELGIUM
      The Red Devils conceded 23 shots against Portugal which is the most they have faced since allowing 27 shots against Brazil in the 2018 World Cup.
      23 – Belgium faced 23 shots against Portugal, the most they’ve faced since allowing 27 shots against Brazil in 2018 in a World Cup match, with this their 35th game since. Stoic. #EURO2020 pic.twitter.com/CuRuaoSiZR— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) June 27, 2021

      RONNING OUT OF TIME
      With the Euro 2016 winners Portugal knocked out, it means that Cristiano Ronaldo will have to wait to break Ali Daei’s record.

      HAVE YOUR SAY
      Belgium have done it! They’ll face Italy in a must watch quarter final tie in Munich on Friday…

      FULL TIME
      Belgium didn’t have their best game but they have managed to squeeze past the reigning champions Portugal and land a spot in the last eight.
      ⏰ RESULT ⏰🇧🇪 Belgium through to the quarter-finals 🎉🇵🇹 Holders Portugal eliminated in round of 16🤔 How far will the Red Devils go? #EURO2020— UEFA EURO 2020 (@EURO2020) June 27, 2021

      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
      THAT’S IT!
      THE REIGNING CHAMPIONS ARE OUT!
      AND THE BELGIUMS GOLDEN GENERATION LIVE TO FIGHT ON!
      FT: BELGIUM 1-0 PORTUGAL
      BELGIUM 1-0 PORTUGAL
      90+4. OH NO JOAO FELIX FLUFFED HIS LINES!
      The Atletico Madrid attacker did so well to cut inside and make room to get his shot off.
      But a little bobble in the pitch came to the aid of Belgium which made Felix completely scuff his shot.
      That should be it.
      BELGUM 1-0 PORTUGAL
      90+2. The #1 ranked team in the world are holding on by the skin of their teeth.
      Will there be one last twist in this tale?
      ROM COM
      Romelu Lukaku begging his defence to hold on to what they have so they can keep this love poem going.

      FIVE ADDITIONAL MINUTES
      BELGIUM 1-0 PORTUGAL
      87. OH MY GOODNESS WHAT A CHANCE FOR SILVA!
      Raphael Guerreiro swung in a cross which fell to Andre Silva at the back-post but Thibaut Courtois stayed big and managed to clean up.
      Tension is rising in Seville.
      BELGIUM 1-0 PORTUGAL
      86. Eden Hazard seems to have pulled his hamstring and has signaled to the bench for a change.
      Yannick Carrasco is stripped and ready to replace the Belgian skipper who isn’t taking any chances.
      BELGIUM 1-0 PORTUGAL
      85. This game is becoming really stretched now.
      Finally this is the game we were waiting for!
      BELGIUM 1-0 PORTUGAL
      82. OFF THE POST!
      Raphael Guerreiro came so close to grabbing the equaliser for Portugal but this time the woodwork came to the rescue for Belgium.
      Fernando Santos’ side are really turning up the heat.
      BELGIUM 1-0 PORTUGAL
      82. WHAT A SAVE COURTOIS!
      Ruben Dias had a header from point blank range but the Belgian keeper managed to deny the Portuguese defender a first international goal at the Euros.
      BELGIUM 1-0 PORTUGAL
      81. With less than ten minutes remaining for Portugal to save their trophy defence and they have a corner.
      What’s going to happen here?
      FIGHT NIGHT
      The players up in arms over Pepe’s challenge on Thorgan Hazard.

      HAVE YOUR SAY
      It’s starting to get a bit scrappy now, which will suit Belgium. Portugal are running out of time, but with the quality they have on the pitch, anything could happen… couldn’t it?

      BELGIUM 1-0 PORTUGAL
      76. THE HANDBAGS ARE OUT!
      Romelu Lukaku suffered a blow to his head and then the Portuguese vetran Pepe fouled Thorgan Hazard long after the whistle was gone.
      He was lucky to only have got a yellow card there.
      Load more entries… More

    • 238 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Holland 0 Czech Republic 2 LIVE REACTION: Czechs shock 10-man Dutch side to reach Euro 2020 quarter-finals – updates

      by

      CZECH REPUBLIC produced the shock of Euro 2020 so far as they beat Holland 2-0 in Budapest to reach the quarter-finals of the competition.Matthijs De Ligt was sent off for deliberate handball just after the break and from then on the Czechs dominated as Holes and Schick scored to put them through to the last eight.

      RESULT: Holland 0-2 Czech Republic
      Netherlands XI: Stekelenburg, Dumfries, de Vrij, de Ligt, Blind, van Aarnholt, de Roon, Wijnaldum, de Jong, Malen, Depay.
      Czech Republic XI: Vaclik, Coufal, Celutska, Kalas, Kaderabek, Holes, Soucek, Masopust, Barak, Sevcik, Schick.

      Follow ALL the latest action with our live blog below…

      CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED

      Bet £5, Get £20 In Free Bets
      THAT’S A WRAP
      Austria running Italy close yesterday and the Czechs dumping Netherlands out in the last-16.
      Rest of the tournament big boys, beware!
      Denmark up next for the Czech Republic.
      HAVE YOUR SAY

      REPORT
      The match report from tonight’s game is now LIVE on site.
      Head on over to the Sun Football page for all the best reaction.
      Or, click here 👉 NETHERLANDS 0 CZECH REPUBLIC 2
      Dutch disappointed
      HALF A MINUTE
      It could have been so different.
      Malen SHOULD score.
      Malen DOESN’T score.
      De Ligt SHOULD defend better.
      De Ligt is sent off.

      ENGLAND BOOST
      Getting beyond Germany will be a tough task.
      But the route for England this year couldn’t be simpler.
      Denmark in the last-8, Sweden or Ukraine next, Denmark or Czech Republic after.
      If it isn’t done this year, it never will be!
      ATTACKING STATS
      UEFA official stats showing the lack of attacking power from the Dutch across the 90 minutes.

      SCENES!
      How the final whistle looked

      HAVE YOUR SAY

      CZECHED OUT
      Top scorers in the groups.
      So much attacking talent.
      ZERO shots on target.

      FT: NETHERLANDS 0-2 CZECH REPUBLIC
      The Czech players all jump around in the centre circle before running off the celebrate with their supporters.
      Depay gutted
      Czechs cheer
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
      The Czechs bounce and they are into the last eight!!
      NETHERLANDS 0-2 CZECH REPUBLIC
      NETHERLANDS 0-2 CZECH REPUBLIC
      90+6′ Berghuis gets the ball on the right an has six in the box to hit.
      He clears absolutely everybody in the middle.
      That sums it up.
      NETHERLANDS 0-2 CZECH REPUBLIC
      90+4′ Dumfries has the ball inside his half and sticks his foot through it and clears it right through to Vaclik.
      Other than that Malen save, he’s not had to do much more in this second period.
      Czech celebrate the second.
      NETHERLANDS 0-2 CZECH REPUBLIC
      90+3′ Krmencik nearly announces his arrival with a great volley from 25 yards out.
      Stekelenburg saves and the flag was up, but it was still nearly!
      NETHERLANDS 0-2 CZECH REPUBLIC
      Final couple of Czech changes:

      OFF – Barak and Schick
      ON – Krmencik and Sadilek

      NETHERLANDS 0-2 CZECH REPUBLIC
      SIX MINUTES ADDED!
      NETHERLANDS 0-2 CZECH REPUBLIC
      88′ It should be three!
      Schick is sent down the left and picks out Barak in the middle who is in acres of room.
      It’s a tired touch and the Dutch get back to get it away.
      THIS CLINCHED IT
      The goal that looks to have secured the Czech Republic place in the quarter finals.

      NETHERLANDS 0-2 CZECH REPUBLIC
      87′ The Czechs keeping the ball in the corner as they wind the time down.

      NETHERLANDS 0-2 CZECH REPUBLIC
      83′ A ball into the box from Promes is flicked on by Weghorst and Dumfries tries to get to it but Vaclik comes out to collect.
      De Jong picks up a YELLOW CARD for an earlier foul.
      Czech changes:

      OFF – Holes and Sevcik
      ON – Kral and Hlozek

      DOUBLE DUTCH
      Substitution:

      OFF – Van Aanholt and Blind
      ON – Berghuis and Timber

      THE FIRST
      Here was that opening goal.

      NETHERLANDS 0-2 CZECH REPUBLIC
      80′ Game over!!?
      Holeš reads the ball in the middle of the park and beats Wijnaldum – who has been completely and utterly non-existent for a captain – to the ball.
      It’s great play from Holeš  as he drives into the box and cuts it back for Schick who sidefoots beyond Stekelenburg from ten yards at his near post.
      GOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLL!!
      It’s that man Patrik Schick again and the Czechs are in dreamland!!
      NETHERLANDS 0-1 CZECH REPUBLIC
      79′ Czech switch:

      OFF – Masopust
      ON – Jankto

      Load more entries… More

    • 238 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Netherlands vs Czech Republic LIVE: Stream FREE, score, TV channel as huge match UNDERWAY – Euro 2020 latest updates

      by

      HOLLAND are taking on Czech Republic in Budapest for a place in the last-eight of Euro 2020.
      TV channel: ITV1
      Live stream FREE: ITV Hub
      Netherlands XI: Stekelenburg, Dumfries, de Vrij, de Ligt, Blind, van Aarnholt, de Roon, Wijnaldum, de Jong, Malen, Depay.
      Czech Republic XI: Vaclik, Coufal, Celutska, Kalas, Kaderabek, Holes, Soucek, Masopust, Barak, Sevcik, Schick.

      Follow ALL the latest action with our live blog below…

      CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED

      Bet £5, Get £20 In Free Bets
      NETHERLANDS 0-0 CZECH REPUBLIC
      HOW HAS HE MISSED THAT!!?
      NETHERLANDS 0-0 CZECH REPUBLIC
      7′ Good work down the right and Wijnaldum wins a corner.
      A Dutch supporter
      NETHERLANDS 0-0 CZECH REPUBLIC
      5′ The Dutch losing the ball twice in a matter of seconds on halfway and giving the Czechs plenty of the ball.
      Kalas goes long for Masopust down the right but even I wouldn’t catch that one and it goes away for a goal kick.

      NETHERLANDS 0-0 CZECH REPUBLIC
      3′ Soucek bundled over wide on the right in an attacking area.
      A chance to flood the box early for the Czech Republic – but they opt to take it short and the ball is worked back to their own keeper.
      NETHERLANDS 0-0 CZECH REPUBLIC
      2′ Now the opponents turn to attack. Holes receives a pass 30 yards out and opts to have a go.
      It’s a good strike but a few yards wide of the target.
      NETHERLANDS 0-0 CZECH REPUBLIC
      Close already!
      1′ Malen stretches the Czechs down the left and works the ball onto his right foot.
      He has Dumfries in acres of room inside the box but the cross is just overhit.
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
      The last-16 clash in Budapest is underway!
      TEAM NEWS – A REMINDER
      NETHERLANDS XI: Stekelenburg, Dumfries, de Vrij, de Ligt, Blind, Van Aanholt, de Roon, F. de Jong, Wijnaldum, Depay, Malen
      CZECH REPUBLIC XI: Vaclik, Coufal, Celutska, Kalas, Kaderabek, Holes, Soucek, Masopust, Barak, Sevcik, Schick
      DONE AND DUSTED
      The atmosphere goes up a notch as the anthems are done and the coin toss is being conducted.

      HERE THEY COME
      Gini Wijnaldum leads the Dutch out first as Tomas Soucek does the same for their opponents.
      A great ovation meets both clubs as one half of the stadium is orange with red, white and blue fluttering.
      The other half a sea of red.
      Anthem time!

      TUNNEL TIME
      The two sides gather in the Puskas Arena tunnel.
      The Czechs in all white, Netherlands in the classic all orange.
      MATCH ODDS
      Netherlands 4/7
      Draw 14/5
      Czech Republic 9/2

      HAVE YOUR SAY

      TOTALLY SCHICK
      The Czech main man is Patrick Schick.
      He has bagged the three goals they have managed so far in this tournament, including this goal of the tournament.

      WARM EVENING
      30°C in Budapest as the sides are being put through their paces.
      The warm-ups are almost complete as pre-match festivities will come on to the park shortly.
      Netherlands squad warming up
      Czechs prepare for last-16 clash
      THROWBACK TIME
      A memorable win in Euro 2004 for the Czechs over today’s opponents.
      Jan Koller, Milan Baros and Pavel Nedved 😍
      🇳🇱🆚🇨🇿🔜🗣️ “That match is unforgettable.”Current Czech Republic stars inspired by five-goal EURO 2004 classic. Same outcome 17 years later❓#EURO2020— UEFA EURO 2020 (@EURO2020) June 27, 2021

      DE BOER EFFECT
      Four wins on the bounce would prove a very, very solid start for the Dutch.
      They’ve only done it once before in their history – when FbD was playing!
      4 – The Netherlands are looking to win their opening four games of a European Championship for only the second time, having last done so at EURO 2000. Current manager Frank de Boer played in every minute of their four victories to open the tournament in 2000. Vanguard. #EURO2020 pic.twitter.com/rUH6iV9FhL— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) June 27, 2021

      STAGE IS SET
      The players head back in after a pre-warm up stroll in the Puskas Arena.
      The ground is starting to fill up nicely too.
      The Czech squad walk the park
      Puskas Arena
      ARRIVAL
      The teams arriving a short while ago.
      Frenkie de Jong
      Czech’s Patrik Schik
      Van Aanholt arrives
      TOP SCORERS
      The Netherlands’ eight goals in the groups was the highest of any side in this year’s tournament.

      HOW THEY GOT HERE
      The Netherlands had a flawless group stage, winning all three games.
      A late scare against Ukraine in the opener ended in a 3-2 win.
      A 2-0 win over Austria was followed up by a 3-0 win over North Macedonia.

      79 NOT OUT
      Dutch skipper Gini Wijnaldum earns his 79th cap tonight, taking him one ahead of former coach Ronald Koeman.
      It also moves him level with Mark van Bommel and Dennis Bergkamp.

      CZECH REPUBLIC TEAM NEWS
      And here is how today’s Czech side line up.
      CZECH REPUBLIC XI: Vaclik, Coufal, Celutska, Kalas, Kaderabek, Holes, Soucek, Masopust, Barak, Sevcik, Schick
      NETHERLANDS TEAM NEWS
      It’s a team that really picks itself.
      Donyell Malen is picked to lead the line alongside star man Memphis Depay.
      NETHERLANDS XI: Stekelenburg, Dumfries, de Vrij, de Ligt, Blind, Van Aanholt, de Roon, F. de Jong, Wijnaldum, Depay, Malen
      TEAM NEWS IS IN!

      Load more entries… More