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LIONEL MESSI is close to signing a new contract with Barcelona, says club legend RivaldoMeanwhile, Chelsea and PSG are increasingly confident that they can persuade Gianluigi Donnarumma to leave AC Milan this summer.
The Italy goalkeeper is out of contract and both clubs reportedly believe they can meet agent Mino Raiola’s demands.
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Stay up to date with all the latest football news in our rolling blog…
WAT A RESULT
Ollie Watkins’ debut will be celebrated far and wide but especially in Brentford and Exeter.
The Aston Villa striker netted as a substitute on his debut in the 5-0 win over San Marino.
Ollie Watkins celebrates his debut goalCredit: Reuters
Brentford and Exeter will reportedly share £1million after former striker Watkins won his first England cap.
Villa signed Watkins from the Bees last summer in a heavily-incentivised deal.
Brentford received £28m up front for the striker, with a further £5m in add-ons.
And, according to The Athletic one of those add-ons involves Villa paying Brentford £1m per cap, ‘up to a small number’.
Exeter also stand to pocket a huge chunk of cash after the striker’s debut.
KANE UNABLE
Former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon claims Harry Kane would be “difficult” to sign this summer as the Spanish giants focus their spending on a huge Bernabeu revamp.
The Spanish giants have been heavily linked with a move for the England star but Calderon thinks this is unlikely this summer.
Harry Kane is being tracked by Real MadridCredit: AFP
Calderon told talkSPORT: “We are not in the best form economically-speaking because we are refurbishing our stadium spending a lot of money.
“It will be difficult to spend money in the summer. We always try to sign good players, we’ve been doing that for years.”
WAT AN EASY WIN
England are off the mark after cruising to a 5-0 home win over San Marino in their first World Cup qualifier.
Ollie Watkins will claim the headlines after scoring on his debut as a substitute.
Ollie Watkins celebrates his debut goalCredit: Reuters
Gareth Southgate’s side had no problems cantering to victory against the minnows.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin netted twice while Raheem Sterling and James Ward-Prowse also scored.
It was a very easy night’s work for England and the side are back in action on Sunday in Albania.
WAT A DEBUT
Ollie Watkins has only been on the pitch a short while but he’s marked his debut with a first England goal.
The Aston Villa striker picked his spot with a low strike to make it 5-0 to England against San Marino.
Ollie Watkins celebrates a debut goalCredit: Getty
WATKINS DEBUT
Ollie Watkins is on for his England debut with the striker given just under 30 minutes to make an impression.
The Aston Villa striker is on for Dominic Calvert-Lewin after two goals for the Everton star.
Ollie Watkins makes his England debutCredit: Getty
England lead 4-0 and will be hoping to add a few more goals during the closing stages at Wembley.
CRUISE CONTROL
England were expected to brush aside San Marino and the hosts are cruising with a 3-0 lead at half-time.
James Ward-Prowse, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Raheem Sterling have netted in a predictably one-sided first 45 minutes.
James Ward-Prowse practises his golf swing after scoringCredit: AFP
James Ward-Prowse celebrated scoring his first England goal by emulating his golf swing.
Gareth Southgate is likely to make use of his squad after the break with two games to come next week.
Elsewhere, Scotland are being held 0-0 at home to Austria while Northern Ireland trail 2-0 in Italy.
VAR VOW
Refs’ chief Mike Riley has promised Premier League clubs that VAR will be “changed and improved” for next season.
And Riley’s officials have agreed to undergo extra coaching and training in the summer to ensure VAR is more fit for purpose.
VAR will be improved according to Mike RileyCredit: Steve Bardens Telegraph Media Group
The vow by Riley came after Prem chiefs asked all clubs, including managers, and captains, for their feedback on how VAR has worked over the past two seasons.
Clubs were sent video clips of controversial incidents from this season in a bid to get an understanding of how the top flight wants VAR to work.
ENGLAND v SAN MARINO
The teams are out on the pitch at Wembley for England’s opening World Cup qualifier.
It should be a formality against the minnows and the hosts will expecting a big victory to start their campaign.
England host San Marino tonightCredit: Getty
We will dip in and out of the action this evening but for extensive coverage of the England match don’t forget to check out the blog here.
ENGLAND TEAM
England have announced their team to face San Marino in their opening World Cup qualifier.
Gareth Southgate has decided to start Harry Kane on the bench with two more games ahead next week.

Mason Mount is the only player to remain from the team which defeated Iceland in the Nations League in November.
Marcus Rashford is not fit to feature due to the foot injury which has kept him out of training this week.
PUL OVER
Chelsea star Christian Pulisic could miss the start of next season after the American admitted he would be honoured to compete in the Olympics.
The Tokyo football tournament gets underway on July 21, with the final taking place on August 7.
Christian Pulisic wants to compete for America at the OlympicsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
If selected, playmaker Pulisic would miss a chunk of pre-season, with the new league season set to get underway on August 14.
The Olympic football tournament is primarily limited to players under 23. But at 22, Pulisic would still qualify.
Pulisic told NBC: “The Olympics is of course a massive honour to play in and to represent your country in an Olympics would be amazing.”
END OF AN ERA
Big news north of the border with Celtic captain Scott Brown announcing he is leaving this summer after 14 years at the club.
Brown is joining Aberdeen as player-coach as he calls time on his hugely successful career at Celtic.
Scott Brown has decided to call time on his Celtic careerCredit: PA
Brown will assist Stephen Glass at Pittodrie for Celtic’s Scottish Premiership rivals. 
The midfielder said: “There is no doubt I had a lot to deliberate when deciding my next steps, particularly after enjoying 14 successful years at Celtic. 
“However, the opportunity to join Aberdeen, a club entering an exciting new period with my former team-mate Stephen now at the helm, was one I couldn’t pass up.
“Once this season concludes, I’m looking forward to joining Stephen, the playing and coaching staff and everyone at Aberdeen.”
His decision to move on will bring the curtain down on a hugely successful spell with the Hoops where he lifted a total of 22 trophies. 
ON GAARD
Real Madrid reportedly expect Martin Odegaard to return to Spain in the summer following his loan spell at Arsenal.
The Gunners signed the midfielder in January for a fee of £1.8million and he has impressed with a series of superb displays for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Martin Odegaard has been a big hit since joining Arsenal on loanCredit: PA
Arsenal are likely to make a bid to either extend his loan or sign the Norway star on a permanent deal.
Goals against Tottenham and Olympiacos, as well as key role in the comeback against West Ham, have made him a major part of Arteta’s plans.
But, according to Madrid publication Marca, Real are not contemplating a sale.
HUGE RIV-ELATION
Lionel Messi is close to signing a new Barcelona contract, according to Barca legend Rivaldo.
The Argentine superstar’s Nou Camp future has been in doubt since he handed in a transfer request last summer before performing a dramatic new turn.
He is set to become a free agent with Manchester City interested at the end of the year although the election of Joan Laporta as the new Barca president could tempt him to stay.
Rivaldo told Betfair: “Barcelona are massively improving in the last few weeks capitalising on Messi’s superb form and the election of a new president.
“Messi looks much more connected and happier since Laporta’s arrival – a president he knows well.
“For that reason, I’m starting to believe more and more that Messi might reach an agreement with the new board and sign a new contract to stay at the club for a few more years.
“Messi had a confidence boost with the new president election – someone he has a good connection with – raising the chances of him considering to stay for a bit longer.”
ARE YOU FER REAL?
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand bizarrely told Newcastle fans to stump up £300million to buy out owner Mike Ashley if they hate him so much.
Just one win from 18 league games leaves the Magpies facing a third relegation from the Premier League under the despised Sports Direct tycoon.
Rio Ferdinand extraordinarily called on Newcastle fans to pool together £300m to oust Mike Ashley
Ashley is desperate to sell and is currently suing the Premier League over the failed £300m Saudi Arabian-led bid.
And Ferdinand angered the Toon Army by claiming they can have few complaints unless they are willing to put their money where their mouth is.
The former England defender told his YouTube channel: “He doesn’t care what people think. It’s his club and he’s doing what he wants to do.
“Whether you like it or not, he’s the one that’s put the money up and he’s doing what he thinks is right for the club.
“Whether the Geordies don’t like it, a lot of them hate him and don’t like him but, round your money up and take over the club then.”
ADIOS ARO
Manchester City keeper Aro Muric has been sent home from international duty for breaching team discipline, according to reports.
The 22-year-old was part of Kosovo’s squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Sweden and Spain.
But national boss Bernard Challandes sent Muric packing earlier this week after the Swiss-born keeper broke team rules.
Muric is on a season-long loan to Dutch club Willem II.
He helped City win the 2019 League Cup, making five appearances, but has since been loaned out to Nottingham Forest and Spanish club Girona.
The keeper had rowed with national teammate Edon Zhegrova, according to Dutch outlet AD.
But coach Challandes labelled the claims ‘fake news’. The Swiss-born manager added: “It would be a lack of respect on my part towards Aro Muric if I give out any more information.”
DEAL WITH IT
Manchester United are set to hand Ole Gunnar Solskjaer a new £10million-a-year contract, according to reports.
The Norwegian, first appointed by the Red Devils on a temporary basis in December 2018, is currently contracted until 2022.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is set to be handed a bumper new dealCredit: Getty
And while he is yet to win a trophy, club chiefs are convinced that he is the right man for the long-term.
According to The Mirror, Solskjaer will be handed a new three-year deal, even if they fail to win the Europa League this season.
The 48-year-old is also set for a significant £2.5m rise on his current £7.5m-a-year salary.
MOUNT A COMEBACK
Chelsea star Mason Mount has admitted that new boss Thomas Tuchel ‘lit a fire’ inside him after axing him for his first game in charge
Speaking ahead of England duty this week, he said: “I’ve had that experience before.
“I was on loan at Vitesse Arnhem when I was 18, 19. That first couple of months I didn’t play hardly at all.
“I had that motivation and that fire to want to get into the team. The first game with the manager coming in, he went for a more experienced team.
“I understood that and wanted to get back into the team, so that motivation and that fire that I have inside me came out.
“I really tried to push to get back into the team. It’s been brilliant. We are working very hard.
“We’ve had tough games in this last period but we have come through it. It’s exciting stuff, we continue to work hard. It’s been a great start.”
GO-MART
Real Madrid reportedly expect Martin Odegaard to return to Spain in the summer following his loan spell at Arsenal.
The Gunners signed the midfielder in January for a fee of £1.8million and he has produced some stellar performances for the club.
Real Madrid expect Martin Odegaard to return to SpainCredit: Getty
Goals against Tottenham and Olympiacos, as well as a starring role in the comeback draw with West Ham, have made him an integral part of Mikel Arteta’s plans.
It is said that the Premier League side are very open to the idea of keeping Odegaard past the summer.
But, according to Madrid publication Marca, Real are not contemplating a sale.
Zinedine Zidane gave the Norwegian his first run in the team at the start of the campaign but a knee issue and a lack of match action hindered his form.
Madrid reportedly want to provide Odegaard with a fresh crack at proving himself at the Bernabeu and no purchase option was agreed in his temporary transfer.
REAL DEAL
Liverpool will take the opportunity to scout Nacho when they meet Real Madrid in the Champions League, it has been claimed.
The Spaniard has been vital in Madrid’s recent eight game unbeaten run in the league, playing every match.
It comes while Sergio Ramos is sidelined with injury, and Nacho is expected to keep his place in the squad even upon the captain’s return to fitness.
That will see the centre-half play against Barcelona domestically and Liverpool in Europe.
And according to AS, the English champions, along with Roma, have both been interested in Nacho before.
So, with two legs to watch the 31-year-old in action, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp can take a better look at him.
MARC MY WORDS
Holland legend Marco van Basten wants to scrap the offside rule from football.
The iconic former midfielder wants to do away with the rule as it will make the sport ‘more interesting’.
Van Basten, 56, was Fifa’s technical director between 2016 and 2018 and rule improvements were part of his remit.
The Dutchman told Sky Sports: “I am still very curious about the offside rule because I am convinced that it is not a good rule.
“At least I would like to trial it to show that football is also possible without the offside rule. I am convinced that football would be better without it.
“Football is a fantastic game but I still think that we have to do much more to make it better, more spectacular, more interesting, more exciting. We have to work on that.”
NICK OF TIME
Nicky Butt reportedly left Manchester United after ‘friction’ with the club’s newly-appointed director of football John Murtough.
The official line from the former England midfielder, 46, who won six Premier League titles as a United player, was that he wanted ‘a new challenge’.
Nicky Butt announced he was quitting Old Trafford for a ‘new challenge’ this weekCredit: PA:Press Association
SunSport has exclusively revealed that Derby boss Wayne Rooney is interested in adding Butt to his management team at the Championship outfit.
But according to The Athletic, Butt and Murtough had ‘differing footballing views’.
Murtough was essentially Butt’s line manager in the new coaching set up. The Athletic describes the pair as ‘like chalk and cheese’.
It is also alleged that Butt felt ‘overlooked’ for the technical director role that his former team-mate Darren Fletcher bagged.
Butt helped bring current first-teamers like Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, Axel Tuanzebe, Dean Henderson and Mason Greenwood through United’s famous academy.
MARI-NO CHANCE
San Marino are massive 250/1 outsiders to beat England, but there are plenty of other bizarre things apparently more likely to happen.

10 things more likely to happen than San Marino beating England

Jeremy Corbyn to be PM – 100/1
Gareth Bale to win the Ballon D’or – 100/1
UK to win the Eurovision song contest – 100/1
Pep Guardiola’s next club to be Newcastle – 100/1
Man Utd to win this season’s Premier League – 150/1
Beyonce to win 2024 US Election – 150/1
Jamie Carragher to be next permanent Liverpool manager – 175/1
Scotland to win EURO 2021 – 200/1
Meghan Markle to call her baby Melania – 200/1
Steven Gerrard to be next permanent Manchester United manager – 250/1

RASH DECISION
Marcus Rashford joined up with the England camp to catch-up with his team-mates and rehab in a social environment but will not play in the World Cup qualifier.
The 23-year-old Manchester United forward is struggling with an ankle injury but The Athletic reports he was desperate to be in and around Gareth Southgate’s side.
Marcus Rashford was eager to see his England palsCredit: PA
Rashford is said to have wanted to be in team meetings ahead of plans for the delayed Euro 2020 tournament this summer.
Rashford is still fully recovering from an ankle blow suffered in the Manchester derby and despite returning for 90 minutes against West Ham, he was hooked at half-time against AC Milan.
The report states he did not suffer ligament damage but bruising and bleeding on the bone initially ruled him out of the first leg in the Europa League.
DIE IS CAST
Diego Costa has reportedly agreed a two-year deal with Portuguese club Benfica.
The striker left Atletico Madrid in December and has fielded numerous offers to return to action.
Premier League club Wolves, Sao Paulo and even Manchester City were discussed as potential destinations for the 32-year-old.
But Benfica emerged as frontrunners earlier this month with a reported contract offer worth £50,000-a-week.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Costa has agreed in principle to sign for the Lisbon side.
The switch will go through in June and see the forward earn a £2.6million signing-on fee.
Costa’s agent, Jorge Mendes, has reportedly been hard at work finding a new club that can offer top-level football to the player.
YOUNG LIONS
England’s Under-21s get their delayed European Champs up and running at 2pm.
Here’s Aidy Boothroyd’s side for the opener against Switzerland with Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah skippering the team.
Gunners team-mate Emile Smith Rowe is handed his first cap.

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GREECE put in a trademark defensive display to deny Spain victory in the opening day of World Cup qualifying in Granada.The Greeks restricted their hosts to just two shots on targets, despite the Spaniards having 80 per cent possession.
Alvaro Morata opened the scoring for Spain before a penalty from Anastasios Bakasetas earned a share of the spoils for the visitors.
THAT’S ALL FROM GRANADA
Greece picked up a 1-1 draw against Spain, which marked an important away point on their 200th anniversary since the historic Revolution that led to their independence.
The Roja dominated a staggering 80 per cent of possession throughout the encounter but failed to create much substance down the visitors’ third.
Luis Enrique’s men almost opened the scoring on 32 minutes with Dani Olmo’s powerful curling shot that rattled Odysseas Vlachodimos’ post.
But just a minute later Koke played Alvaro Morata through the Ethniki’s defence and the Juvetnus star chested the ball down perfectly before beating Vlachodimos with a superb finish.
But Greece came back strong at the second half as they added pace to their attack following the introduction of PAOK star Christos Tzolis.
Disaster struck for Spain after 56 minutes when Inigo Martinez clashed with Giorgos Masouras inside the box and the referee awarded a penalty fore the visitors.
Tasos Bakasetas converted the spot-kick and beat Unai Simon to give his country an important away point, that occurred thanks to only one shot throughout the entire match.
Spain couldn’t respond even though they had full control of the match and never looked likely to regain the lead
GETTY IMAGES
GETTY IMAGES
ZECA REACTS
Greece ace Carlos Zeca admits spirits are high among the visitors’ camp but insists they haven’t won anything yet.
Zeca said: “It is a very good result for us. We are happy. We got a point against one of the best teams in the world.
“However, we have another game. We have not won anything, it is a great result, but we have a long way to go.
“We came to win. We know it’s hard to win here, but we believed it. They created problems in the game, especially in the first half. There we thought that 0-0 is good. We worked for that.
“After 1-0, we managed to equalise and then we gave everything to protect the scoreline”
GETTY IMAGES
MORATA REACTS
Spain star Alvaro Morata claims the hosts “knew” how Greece would play and hinted there may be some more shockers down the road unless they improve.
Morata said: “We knew the game that they would raise.
“Any team that knows how to defend well puts you in trouble, [we have] to get positive things to evolve.
“You have to keep working, it’s not going to be the first or the last like that”
GETTY IMAGES
GROUP B TABLE
Greece are now second in Group B after their impressive draw with Spain, who start off in third place, in Granada.
Sweden top the table thanks to their 1-0 victory against Georgia at home.
Janne Andersson’s side won thanks to Krasnodar ace Viktor Claesson’s winner.
If Greece keep it up then Sweden and Spain could be in for a tough campaign in their bid to qualify for the World Cup

SCHIP ON HIS SHOULDER
Greece manager John van’t Schip picked up his most impressive result with the Ethniki ever since replacing Angelos Anastasiadis in July 2019.
In fact, the visitors have won seven out of 15 matches under Van’t Schip and only lost three.
Greece are now enjoying a six-match undefeated run, which has seen them winning three games in the process.
The Euro 2004 champions haven’t lost since October 7 when Austria beat them 2-1
GETTY IMAGES
STATS
Spain have a lot to ponder on there as they failed to win a match in which they controlled 80.2 per cent of possession.
The hosts produced a total of nine shots, two of which were on target.
Greece, on the other hand, only got one shot throughout the entire match, and it so happened to also be their sole shot on target.
The Roja dominated the passing (92.1 per cent) as well as tackling (58.3 per cent) charts and bested Greece in the air (52.6 per cent) as well but still couldn’t get the three points
FT: SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
Spain have been frustrated by Greece in the first World Cup qualifier.
The Roja dominated the first half as they controlled 80 per cent of possession and came close to an opener on 32 minutes when Dani Olmo’s powerful curling shot rattled Odysseas Vlachodimos’ crossbar.
But just a minute later Koke played Alvaro Morata through with a clever chip and the Juventus star cheastted the ball down perfectly before finishing off with a crisp shot past Vlachodimos.
Greece started strong in the second half with the addition of Christos Tzolis and Manolis Siopis and got the equaliser on 56 minutes when Inigo Martinez brought Giorgos Masouras down in the penalty area.
Tasos Bakasetas took the shot and beat Unai Simon with ease to give Greece a valuable point away against Spain
GETTY IMAGES
PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
AND THAT’S FULL-TIME IN GRANADA!!!!!!!
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
90+5 Five added minutes have been played following a short injury break by Tzavellas.
Spain are pushing hard but can’t get the final ball through
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
90+2 CHANCE
Morata tries to play on Llorente with a through ball down the right flank but the pass is too heavy.
The Spain star was found offside anyway…
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
90 Four added minutes to go in Granada.
Spain are pushing forward hard as they are desperate for a late winner.
Greece continue to hold
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
90 Thiago tries a cheeky floating shot from the edges of the box but Vlachodimos picks it up with ease.
The Greece goalkeeper was a bit off position there and gave the visitors a few scares…
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
88 We are close to full-time and Spain are struggling to produce anything substantial despite their full control of possession.
Greece are trying to close spaces behind and push the Spaniards to the wings.
So far so good for the visitors
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
85 Gaya goes down inside Greece’s box following a challenge with Bakakis but there doesn’t seem to be much there.
Spain aren’t really protesting anyway…
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
83 YELLOW CARD
Gaikoumakis becomes only the second player to be booked after a heavy foul on Garcia, it seems
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
81 YELLOW CARD
Zeca gets booked after he wrestles Oyarzabal to the ground
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
80 SUBSTITUTION
Greece make another change as Kyriakopoulos replaces Tsimikas, who apparently picked up a knock earlier
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
78 SUBSTITUTION
Bakasetas comes off and is replaced by the most in-form Greek striker Giakoumakis.
Tzavellas takes the armband for the final few minutes
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
76 We forgot to mention that Oyarzabal came on for Spain as he replaced Torres.
The forward came on at the same time as Thiago
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
76 CHANCE!
Oyarzabal picks up a through pass from Gaya down the left flank and passes through but barely misses Morata.
Spain are pushing for a late winner!
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
75 Spain are getting frustrated as shown just now when Tzolis picked up the ball while on the ground thinking he was fouled.
Greece are desperate to hold but are still not showing enough
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
73 What does Morata have in common with Silva, Villa and Torres?
More info below:
6 – Since 2004, only David Silva (8), David Villa (8) and Fernando Torres (7) have scored more goals in the World Cup Qualifiers for the Spanish National Team than Álvaro Morata (6). Scorer. pic.twitter.com/0N769P4wPp— OptaJose (@OptaJose) March 25, 2021

SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
72 SUBSTITUTION
Spain boss brings Koke out and replaces him with Liverpool star Thiago.
The incoming midfielder also gets the armband and becomes the third player to captaint he Roja tonight
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
70 CHANCE!
Torres produces a lovely cross off the right flank and finds Morata whose header lacks power and bounces straight to Vlachodimos’ arms
SPAIN 1-1 GREECE
70 Spain have been rather slow throughout the game, despite their dominance in the first half.
They are now finding it harder to find the final ball and combine their midfield with the likes of Gil, Morata and Torres
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ITALY breezed past Northern Ireland as they got off to an encouraging start to their World Cup qualifying campaign.Goals from Domenico Berardi and Ciro Immobile earned a comfortable three points for the Azzurri.
THANKS FOR JOINING US
That’s all from us tonight as a spirited Northern Ireland side were seen off 2-0 by Italy in Parma.
The Azzurri did the hard work in the first half, going two goals up after strikes from Domenico Berardi and Ciro Immobile.
Ian Baraclough’s side threatened after the break and will feel unlucky not to have scored after Michael Smith and Paddy McNair failed to convert good opportunities.
Italy though looked comfortable for most of the game and will be favourites to qualify from Group C for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Thanks for joining us this evening.
It’s been a pleasure.
MATCH REPORT
Roberto Mancini’s Italy got their World Cup qualifying campaign off to a perfect start this evening.
The Azzurri will be desperate to banish the demons of failing to qualify for the 2018 World Cup.
CLICK HERE TO READ OUR MATCH REPORT
NEXT UP
Up next for Northern Ireland is a friendly against the USA on Sunday, before it’s back to business on Wednesday with a World Cup qualifier against Hungary in Belfast.
Ian Baraclough will be hoping his side can get back to winning ways in both of those games at Windsor Park.
Italy meanwhile have two more Wolrd Cup qualifiers in the next week.
Roberto Mancini’s side travel to Bulgaria on Sunday and then Lithuania on Wednesday.
ACTION SHOTS
A selection of snaps from Italy’s 2-0 win over Northern Ireland in qualifying Group C for the 2022 World Cup.
Credit: EPA
Credit: EPA
Credit: EPA
HUNDRED UP
Leonardo Bonucci marked his 100th Italy cap by wearing these special edition boots for the game.
Bonucci and centre back partner Giorgio Chiellini kept a clean sheet for the Azzurri this evening, but Northern Ireland did have their moments.
Michael Smith and Paddy McNair both squandered big chances for the visitors.
Credit: Reuters
ROBERTO REACTS
Italy boss Roberto Mancini takes to Twitter to celebrate Italy’s win.
“It was important to get off to a good start. Now we’ll concentrate on our upcoming games.”

DEJECTED
Ian Baraclough trudges off the pitch at full time in Parma.
His side are winless in their last eleven games in ninety minutes.
Their only win in that run came on penalties against Bosnia in a Euro 2020 qualifying play-off game.
Credit: PA
AS IT STANDS
Here’s how qualifying Group C looks after tonight’s results.
Switzerland beat Hungary 3-1 in the other game in the group tonight as the two highest ranked teams hit the front early on.

IAN’S ANALYSIS
Here’s what Northern Ireland boss Ian Baraclough has to say on what changed after half time for his side:
“Just more intensity.
“We were far too passive [in] the first half.
“I think we sat off that little bit too much [and] gave them a little bit too much respect.
“[We] changed that at half time [and were] a lot better, [we] created chances and should have come away with something that maybe could have taken us into the last ten or fifteen minutes where it could have been frantic for Italy.”
BRILLIANT BERARDI
Domenico Berardi’s first half strike made him the first player to score in three consecutive games under Roberto Mancini.
His previous strikes came against Bosnia and Poland in the Nations League fixtures in November 2020.

SHIRT SWAP
Kyle Lafferty gets his hands on Giorgio Chiellini’s shirt after the full time whistle.
Credit: PA

ACTION AREAS
The action areas from the game show how Italy dominated the ball, but a lot less of the play was in the Northern Ireland third in the second half.
Ian Baraclough and his side will take a lot of heart from their performance tonight.

FULL TIME SCENES
The players react as the full time whistle blows in Parma.
Credit: AFP
Credit: Getty
FULL TIME STATS
Nothern Ireland were much improved after the break and mustered three efforts on target in the second half.
In the end though Ian Baraclough’s side could not find a way past Gianluigi Donnarumma, meaning Northern Ireland’s 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign starts with defeat.

FT: ITALY 2-0 NORTHERN IRELAND
Italy get the job done in Parma after first half goals from Domenico Berardi and Ciro Immobile.
Northern Ireland improved drastically after the break and will feel unlucky not to have scored in the second half.
Michael Smith and Paddy McNair in particular had huge chances to score for the visitors.
The Azzurri got the job done though and start their 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign with a win.
PEEEEEEEEEEP!
THAT’S FULL TIME!
ITALY 2-0 NORTHERN IRELAND!
ITALY 2-0 NORTHERN IRELAND
93. Yellow card.
Jordan Thompson is into the book late on for bringing down Marco Verratti as the midfielder looks to break forward.
ITALY 2-0 NORTHERN IRELAND
93. CHANCE!
The Azzurri have come to life in the final minutes!
Verratti clips a ball over the top of Cathcart and into the path of Chiesa in the box.
He tries to hit it first time on the volley but completely mis-kicks it with the goal gaping.
ITALY 2-0 NORTHERN IRELAND
91. CHANCE!
It’s another huge one for Italy.
Spinazzola plays it into the feet of Immobile and sets off for the return ball.
Immobile slides it into him, through on goal, but the substitute can only poke his effort wide of the post.
ITALY 2-0 NORTHERN IRELAND
90. Three minutes of added time have been signalled by the fourth official.
ITALY 2-0 NORTHERN IRELAND
89. CHANCE!
Now it’s Italy’s turn to threaten.
Immobile latches on to a through ball and pokes it past the onrushing Peacock-Farrell.
His touch makes the angle tight though and he can’t quite wrap his foot around the ball to steer it on target.
ITALY 2-0 NORTHERN IRELAND
87. HUGE CHANCE!
Paddy McNair really should score!
The ball is squared across the face of goal towards Laverty on the penalty spot.
He lets it run past him for McNair to shoot, but he blazes his effort over the bar!
That has to go in.
ITALY 2-0 NORTHERN IRELAND
85. The Italy substitutions have disrupted the momentum Northern Ireland had started to build.
Davis gives away a free kick for a shove on Verratti as the Northern Ireland skipper is a little to eager to win the ball back high up the pitch.
ITALY 2-0 NORTHERN IRELAND
84. Italy substitutions.
Matteo Pessina and Vincenzo Grifo are on for Manuel Locatelli and Lorenzo Insigne.
ITALY 2-0 NORTHERN IRELAND
83. Steven Davis is involved in the action again, this time on the edge of the Italy box.
He tries his luck but sends his effort straight into the arms of Donnarumma.
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GERMANY commenced their 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign by making a big statement against Iceland.Leon Goretzka, Kai Havertz and Ilkay Gundogan all netted on a straightforward evening for departing manager Joachim Low.
THAT’S ALL FROM US IN DUISBURG
Stay tuned for our live coverage of upcoming fixtures as World Cup 2022 qualifiers continue.

RESULTS FROM THE GAMES ACROSS EUROPE
⏰ #WCQ RESULTS! ⏰Most impressive performance? 🤩— European Qualifiers (@EURO2020) March 25, 2021

REACTIONS FROM THE GAME
Joachim Löw, Germany head coach: “It wasn’t our most incredible performance, but it was very important to make a positive start to the new year and that’s what we’ve done tonight”.
İlkay Gündoğan, Germany midfielder: “I think we produced a strong performance, kept things under our control. We were just pleased to be playing together again and I think you saw we enjoyed it tonight.”

STATS ON THE GAME
Germany ended the game with 76% possession compared to Iceland’s 24% which was reflected in the ball play barely leaving the Icelandic half.
There was 987 passes successfully completed by the German team compared to the mere 167 completed by the Icelandics.
Despite having 6 shots on goal the Icelandics weren’t able to reap the rewards from their efforts.
Germany had 15 attempts on goal, 5 of which were on target but only managed to put 3 in the back of the net which is surprising considering their possession percentage.
With some strong tackles from both sides there were two Icelandic and one German foul which resulted in respective yellow cards.
Germany showed great strength at the start by pocketing two goals within the first 10 minutes but as Iceland found their feet they were able to stump the German charge.

GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
Germany went out tonight seeking justice for a disastrous 2020 and they got one in Duisburg. What a way to begin head coach Joachim Löw’s farewell tour as Germany take a comfortable 3-0 win over Iceland.
Die Mannschaft raced into a 2-0 lead in the opening 10 minutes courtesy of the two goals scored by Goretzka and Havertz which were expertly set up by Kimmich. Throughout the game the ball rarely made its way out of Iceland’s half as the German team cruised through to an easy win.
Although the intensity of the Icelandic visitors improved after the break, the game was put to bed after an excellent strike from Gündogan.
A refreshing performance from Germany and an impressive response to their last 6-0 defeat against Spain in Seville.

THE WHISTLE IS BLOWN AND IT IS A WIN FOR GERMANY!!!
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
90 +2 and we’re into the extra time here in Duisburg where Germany finish off what has been an easy game for them.
90+2 Kimmich the architect for the goals scored for Germany presses down the pitch.
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
89 There’s a double substitution:
Bödvarsson for Sigthórsson Pálsson for Skúlason

GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
85 Kimmich makes 140 accurate passes so far in this game really dominating down the middle of the field.
86 Sampstead concedes a free kick for a foul on Ginter and Gnabry is subbed out for Younes.
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
82 Ingason is penalised for a foul on Kimmich. Rüdiger takes the free kick but Kimmich is quickly up and in possession again.
83 Gnabry on the intent but not on the delivery who plays it directly into GK’s hands.
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
79 Kimmich steers clear of the right back role pressuring up the pitch, a very comfortable match for germany.

GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
77 Iceland struggle to get it out of their half as Kimmich presses forward.
79 Two substitutions
Jamal Musiala (just 18 years old) replaces Kai HavertsWerner for Sané
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
74 Portugal continuing to dominate the play with a poor cross but kept alive by Gündogan.
Löw bring on Neuhaus’ fresh legs to finish off the last of this game. Germany are keeping possession with ease.
The final 15 minutes are being set up to be played almost exclusively in Iceland’s half.
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
71 Substitutions are made:
Goretzka for NeuhausTraustason for Sigurdsson
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
69 Kimmich slows down the ball as it comes into the box passing back and making the full use of the pitch in which Germany dominates.
70 Kimmich lifts is through and Gnabry has a shot at goal but hits the post! A what a disappointing miss when set up so nicely from our star player Kimmich.
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
65 Gudmundsson is booked with a foul on Klostermann.
67 Another shot on goal by Goretzka off the right foot but just dragged it wide.
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
65 Bödvarsson has an effort on goal but is saved by Neuer. It was an impressive take on the volley from Boödvarsson, but the German GK Neuer saves it comfortably.
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
61 Magnússon is penalised for a foul on Kimmich resulting in Rüdiger taking the free-kick.
Germany demonstrates huge flexibility in their German frontline. Tonight Gnabry, Havertz and Sane have dovetailed effectively.

GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
61 Gudmundsson takes the corner and the German defence is momentarily stretched by a diagonal ball which Klosterman is forced to head behind.
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
59 Havertz hits the target once again but this time offside, still excellent play from Havertz who is dominating the play.

GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
58 The lack of a clear Icelandic striker is clear as their attack appears to be weak with Ingason’s effort at goal missing the target and is saved by Neuer.
GERMANY 3 – 0 ICELAND
Another goal from Germany this time from the Manchester City’s Gündogan.
He shows great footwork at the edge of the penalty box before striking low from range past Halldórsson.
A ninth international goal for Gündogan.
GOOOAAAALLLLLL!!!!!!!
GERMANY 2 – 0 ICELAND
53 Iceland clears the ball but Bödbarsson is flagged for offside.
Kimmich takes the free-kick and continues in heavy German possession.
GERMANY 2 – 0 ICELAND
52 Germany biding their time and waiting for their opportunity to score.
Iceland have come out in the second half with a point to prove. They’re pressing higher up the pitch, forcing Germany to make mistakes and are threatening the steam roll result Germany expected.
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ENGLAND’S U21 have got off to a losing start in the Euros as a strike from Dan Ndoye secured all three points for Switzerland.Aidy Boothroyd’s men failed to threaten during the game and have it all to do to qualify from a group also containing Portugal and Croatia.
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FULL TIME STATS
England managed just one shot on target – a free-kick from Callum Hudson-Odoi – in their opening Group D game against Switzerland despite having almost two-thirds of possession.
Statistics courtesy of UEFA.Com
FT: ENGLAND U21 0-1 SWITZERLAND U21
It’s a low-key performance and a disappointing result for England in their opening game of the European U21 Championships. In a game of few chances, the tactically-superior Swiss won through thanks to Dan Ndoye’s strike of good fortune. Aidy Boothroyd’s team now have it all to do against Portugal and Croatia in their final two Group D games to avoid another early exit.
PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!IT’S ALL OVER IN KOPER!
ENGLAND U21 0-1 SWITZERLAND U21
90+4. The Swiss take the ball towards the corner flag, and win a free-kick while Skipp is booked for his frustrations.
It’s going to be an opening game defeat for England.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 SWITZERLAND U21
90+3. England up the ante and the tempo although it all seems a little too late.
Hudson-Odoi fires a cross into a packed a penalty area, but it’s expertly claimed by Racioppi.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 SWITZERLAND U21
90. England are awarded a throw-in in a promising position as four minutes stoppage time are signalled by the fourth official.
If that brings hope of a leveller, the throw doesn’t. It’s easily booted to safety by Zesiger.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 SWITZERLAND U21
89. Ramsdale gathers a loose ball, and immediately looks to release it quickly in the hope that his side can find an equaliser. However, there are so few options available to the goalkeeper that he has to wait for Guehi to show himself.
That perhaps sums this England performance up.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 SWITZERLAND U21
87. Aidy Boothroyd looks on helplessly from the touchline. The England coach is staring down the barrel of another defeat. He has been here before.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 SWITZERLAND U21
85. The Swiss make another change with their late call-up – and usual captain – Kevin Ruegg on for Bastien Toma.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 SWITZERLAND U21
82. Hudson-Odoi departs the pitch to collect his new footwear, and then returns without gaining the referee’s permission.
The result is a ridiculous yellow card that leaves the Chelsea man completely incredulous.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 SWITZERLAND U21
80. Hudson-Odoi loses a boot, and it sends the England trainer on a mad dash around the pitch to supply the forward with another.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 SWITZERLAND U21
78. Disaster for England as Dan Ndoye opens the scoring!
It’s a goal of immense fortune for the Swiss, but it had been coming.
There was little danger as Ndoye collected a pass on the left, and looked to make room for himself to shoot from 25 yards out.
However, the forward slipped at the point of impact, and only succeeded it hitting the ball against his other foot. Up it looped despairingly over Aaron Ramsdale and into the top corner.
The Young Lions have it all to do now if they are to avoid beginning the Championships with a defeat.
GOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAALLLLL!!DAN NDOYE BREAKS THE DEADLOCK!!
ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
76. England make their second double change.
Dwight McNeil saved England moments ago, but it’s his last act. Ryan Sessegnon and Rhian Brewster are on with McNeil and Eddie Nketiah going off.
ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
74. Chance for the Swiss! Imeri lines up a shot from 25 yards out that almost creeps beyond Ramsdale before the England goalkeeper readjusts himself to push out.
It looks all set for Lotomba to convert on the follow up, but McNeil gets across well to cut out the danger.
Another let off for England.
ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
73. Impressive acrobatics from Nketiah, who executes an instinctive overhead kick as Hudson-Odoi’s poor free-kick makes his way through to the forward.
It ends up well over the crossbar but still.
ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
70. Jankewitz fizzes in a teasing cross from the right that is very well dealt with by Godfrey.
ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
68. A McNeil corner from the right is defended well by Switzerland. It’s the first time the Swiss have looked assured at an England set-piece.
ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
66. Then it’s a double change for England.
Eberechi Eza and Curtis Jones are on for the Young Lions with Emile Smith Rowe and Tom Davies making way.
ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
65. A first set of substitutions are prepared.
Kastriot Imeri comes on for the Swiss in place of Jeremy Guillemenot. It’s likely to mean Dan Ndoye is pushed up front with the incoming Imeri taking over in midfield.
ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
63. Racioppi finally makes a save! The Switzerland stopper throws himself to his left to push away Hudson-Odoi’s effort from the free-kick.
ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
62. Another yellow, this time shown to Bamert after the defender put an arm across Nketiah, who was threatening to break free.
It brings England a free-kick in a promising position, approximately 25 yards from goal.
ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
60. The first yellow card of the game is shown to Swansea’s Marc Guehi. The defender is cautioned for sliding in and catching Guillemenot with his studs.
Switzerland coach Mauro Lustrinelli wants a greater punishment, but the England man clearly made contact with the ball first.

ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
59. It’s more through luck than judgement in the build-up, but Nketiah finally manages to unleash his first shot in anger. It’s brilliantly blocked by Bamert.
ENGLAND U21 0-0 SWITZERLAND U21
57. A great battle between McNeil and Toma in midfield. The Burnley man looks to have got the better of his opponent with an excellent tackle, but Toma fights back and does really well to come away with the ball.
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