Sport

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid and Germany legend Toni Kroos ready to come out of retirement to play for his brother’s team

      by

      TONI KROOS is set to return to football for a special match just eight months after his retirement.Toni, 35, rolled credits on a glittering 17-year career that saw him win almost everything with the likes of Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Germany.Toni Kroos is set to return to football just eight months after his retirementCredit: GettyToni will be playing for his brother Felix’s team Two Stripes United in the ICON LeagueCredit: GettyThe midfielder’s last game took place at Euro 2024 in his homeland when his national team was eliminated by eventual European champions Spain in a controversial quarter-final.According to Marca, however, the German legend is set to lace up his boots for just one more match.But it won’t be for a top-tier competition or an elite club, like everyone is used to seeing him.Instead, Toni will play for his brother Felix’s team named Two Stripes United in the ICON League.Read More on FootballThe competition is mostly consisted of streamers, content creators and footballers – similar to the Kings League in Spain.The six-time Champions League winner agreed to cross over to the non-pro competition, but he had one demand.And that was to play side by side with Felix, 34, with whom he started his professional career.The Kroos brothers cut their teeth together at Hansa Rostock but their paths were separated in 2006 when Bayern came knocking for Toni.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsFelix stayed in Germany where he played for the likes of Werder Bremen, Union Berlin and Eintracht Braunschweig until his retirement in 2021.Toni’s addition to Two Stripes United works as a major boost for the younger brother.Toni Kroos shows his skills at Real Madrid training Felix’s team only managed six points out of 13 matches last season.Toni will be the most successful and experienced player in the league after 465 appearances with Real, 205 games with Bayern and 114 caps with Germany. More

    • 250 Shares159 Views

      in Boxing

      Nick Ball is the British world champ likened to Mike Tyson and tipped to fight pound-for-pound KO king Naoya Inoue

      by

      NICK BALL is Britain’s miniature Mike Tyson tipped to fight pound-for-pound KO king Naoya Inoue. The Wrecking Ball – as he is perfectly nicknamed – is the WBA featherweight champion with 21 wins. Promoter Frank Warren with Nick BallCredit: GettyBall won his world title against Ray FordCredit: GettyTyson pictured during his 1986 heydayCredit: GettyOnly 5ft 2in, the Liverpudlian has earned comparisons to Iron Mike due to their squat figure and aggressive boxing styles.Ball won the title against American Ray Ford last June – and revealed his admiration for heavyweight great Tyson in the build up. He told the Daily Mail: “I’ve always looked up to Mike Tyson. “I appreciate his style of boxing and wanted to incorporate that into my own style.READ MORE IN BOXING”No messing about, looking to get the job done against his opponents. It’s all action and I think that is what everyone wants to watch as well.”You get your money’s worth when you are watching people like me and Mike Tyson because it is edge of your seat stuff.”Ball, 28, defended his title against Ronny Rios, 35, with a tenth-round stoppage in October. He now returns on Saturday at the M&S Bank Arena against Irishman TJ Doheny, 38, who is moving up from super-bantamweight. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSDoheny fell victim to an Inoue knockout defeat in September – pulling himself out in round seven with a back injury. Inoue, 31, is considered one of the world’s best with a frightening 29-0 record with 26 KOs. Tyson Fury teases spectacular boxing comeback at Old Trafford as fans say ‘it’d better be Anthony Joshua’He has titles in FOUR divisions, from light-flyweight to super-bantamweight. And a move to the 126lb featherweight limit has been teased – where Ball is waiting in the wings. Promoter Frank Warren told BoxingScene: “I love Nick Ball. You know that. He’s a magnificent fighter. “He’s brilliant at what he’s done, the way he’s come through, showing the world what he’s about. “He’s just been fabulous at what he’s done, how he’s taken advantage of the opportunities that he’s had and showing the world what he’s all about. “The fight with him and Inoue, and Inoue coming up in weight, if that happens in December, I would love it to happen. “They’ve all got to keep winning, obviously, but I would love that fight.”Naoya Inoue is linked with a fight against BallCredit: AFP More

    • 275 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Loss not bad enough’ – Liverpool fans suffer more pain as tunnel video of Virgil Van Dijk emerges from after PSG defeat

      by

      LIVERPOOL star Virgil van Dijk was spotted speaking to Paris Saint-Germain chiefs ahead of his contract’s expiration, leaving fans concerned.The Reds crashed out of the Champions League on Tuesday when they lost 4-1 on penalties after PSG tied the aggregate on 1-1 thanks to Ousmane Dembele’s goal.Liverpool fans were left concerned after seeing Virgil van Dijk speaking to Paris Saint-Germain chiefsVan Dijk’s Liverpool contract runs out in JuneCredit: GettyVitinha, Goncalo Ramos, Dembele and Desire Doue went on to score all of the visitors’ spot-kicks, while goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma caught Darwin Nunez and Curtis Jones’ pens.After the heartbreaking loss in the Last 16, the Merseysiders’ captain Van Dijk, 33, was seen speaking to PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and strategic advisor Luis Campos in the tunnel.A viral clip showed the trio having a cordial conversation a week after the centre-back clashed with Campos, who complained about a red card he thought Ibrahima Konate should have been shown in the first leg.However, Liverpool fans were left very worried as the Netherlands international’s contract runs out in June and there are still no developments regarding his status.Read More on FootballSome fans were left fearing Van Dijk was discussing a potential free transfer to PSG.One fan tweeted: “Like the loss wasn’t bad enough.”Another commented: “Great thanks for this what a lovely thing to see.”A third wrote: “Oh. That’s just beautiful, isn’t it.”Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsThis fan gushed: “Oh, wow.”And that one simply said: “Hmmmm.”Moment Mo Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold are pulled apart after apparent spat during Liverpool training Nevertheless, there are currently no reports linking Van Dijk to a move to PSG.However, Liverpool are still facing the risk of losing the Dutchman as well as Trent Alexander-Arnold and superstar Mohamed Salah whose contract also run out in June. More

    • 200 Shares149 Views

      in Boxing

      KSI called out by footballer who infamously knocked out Premier League legend for Misfits Boxing fight

      by

      KSI has been called out to a fight by football hardman Phil Bardsley. Bardsley infamously knocked out Wayne Rooney in a drunken kitchen sparring session in 2015. Football hardman Phil Bardsley has called out KSICredit: PABardsley infamously knocked out Wayne Rooney in a drunken kitchen sparring session in 2015KSI is the founder of Misfits BoxingCredit: PAHe only retired from playing in 2023 and moved into coaching – but now he fancies a switch to the boxing ring. Bardsley, 39, told BoyleSports, who offer Premier League odds: “I would step in there with anyone, including KSI.“I had an operation recently but it won’t take me long to get my fitness up when I’m back in the gym. “I’d love to give it a go and I think I’d really enjoy the routine of it, it’s something I’d really look forward to.READ MORE IN BOXING“I’d never turn down a fight on one of the Misfits cards, but it’s not in my nature to go out there promoting myself. Let’s see what happens.”Bardsley came through Manchester United’s academy and was signed with the Red Devils from 2003-2008. During that period, he also had loan spells with Royal Antwerp, Burnley, Rangers, Aston Villa and Sheffield United. The right-back later played for Sunderland, Stoke, Burnley again and finally Stockport County – where he retired. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBardsley is an avid boxing fan watched on as former United team-mate Danny Simpson also made his boxing debut. Simpson, 38, drew against YouTuber Danny Aarons, 22, last August and continues training for another bout. KSI’s sparring partner says he snubbed Love Island return to focus on Misfits Boxing and reveals how hard YouTuber hits Misfits is the home to celebrity-style crossover bouts headed up by YouTuber-turned-boxer KSI. KSI, 31, returns against MMA star Dillon Danis, also 31, in Manchester on March 29. But Danis replaced Wayne Bridge, 44, after the ex-Chelsea player pulled out when KSI referenced his infamous feud with John Terry. Danny Aarons and Danny Simpson drewCredit: GettyKSI facing off with Wayne BridgeCredit: misfits boxing More

    • 163 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Benfica fans brawl with Barcelona stewards with limbs everywhere during Champions League KO

      by

      BENFICA supporters clashed with stewards following their Champions League defeat to Barcelona on Tuesday.The Portuguese side suffered a 3-1 loss to Hansi Flick’s team at Estadi Olimpic Lluís Companys.Benfica fans clashed with stewards in the standsCredit: https://x.com/hooliganscz1999Some could be seen hitting each otherCredit: https://x.com/hooliganscz1999They subsequently crashed out of the Champions League by losing 4-1 on aggregate.Supporters were left furious at full-time and clashed with stewards in the stands.Some fans and stewards appeared to hit each other, with objects also thrown.Both sets of supporters clashed outside the stadium before the match.Read More in FootballThe fixture was deemed high-risk prior to the clash, with Barcelona leading 1-0 on aggregate.Raphinha broke the deadlock with an 11th-minute strike before Nicolas Otamendi equalised just a few moments later.Barcelona then sealed the win thanks to additional goals from Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.After the match, Flick said: “I’m happy, of course. We have respected Benfica, their coach.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free bets”It was a difficult game for us but we did very well.”On Yamal, he added: “I’m very happy for him; he hasn’t scored in a while. He was happy too because it was an important goal for us.”He was great. He’s showing a lot of confidence; the goal came at the perfect time.”I sold Lamine Yamal trading card for life changing amount – my wife doesn’t think it’s a silly hobby now More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Trippier reveals why Newcastle have changed HOTEL as they prepare for Carabao Cup final after 2023 Man Utd heartache

      by

      KIERAN TRIPPIER has warned Liverpool that Newcastle are far better prepared for Sunday’s Carabao Cup final than they were two years ago.And that even extends to changing their hotel — in the hope it changes their luck.Kieran Trippier has warned Liverpool that Newcastle are far better prepared for the Carabao Cup final nowCredit: PAToon right-back Trippier says the emotion of the 2023 showpiece at Wembley was overwhelming for Eddie Howe’s squad as they lost 2-0 to Manchester United.It was Newcastle’s first major final since 1999 and the pressure was on to deliver a first major domestic trophy since 1955, with the local players particularly feeling the heat.Trippier, however, says the squad are much more relaxed now as they prepare to take on Arne Slot’s men.The Magpies claimed a 1-0 win at West Ham on Monday in their last game before Sunday’s final.READ MORE IN footballAnd former England defender Trippier, 34, said: “There was a lot of noise the first time in the final.“But now the lads have experienced it, we know how to handle it. It’ll be a different feel this time. The most important thing is to stay calm, stay relaxed.“The emotion in the first cup final got the better of us, I can’t say an individual but as a group.“It was the first final for some of the players, playing at Wembley, the cup final for Newcastle, the fans are all excited, etc.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“But the lads have gained that experience and are fully prepared, calm, relaxed for this final.“I’m not picking anybody out — but if you look at the Geordie lads in our team, for example, it means so much to them, because they’re from Newcastle.Man Utd confirm Old Trafford decision with club set to build £2bn 100,000-seater ‘Wembley of the North’ “Family and friends, everyone’s buzzing because it’s the first final in so many years.“So the emotion was very, very high for a large part before the final.“But this time around it’s more calm, more relaxed — and that’s from the supporters as well.“But all we can do is just give everything in that final.”Newcastle have made logistical changes too, moving away from the Hilton hotel that is right next door to Wembley.The Hilton is so close to the stadium it leaves players trapped inside on the morning of the game.Trippier added: “Staying at the Hilton was too close, shall we say. It’s about learning. The club learned a lot from the first time around.The emotion in the first cup final got the better of us, I can’t say an individual but as a group.Kieran Trippier“A lot more things are well organised this time. I’m not saying it was bad last time but we’re more prepared because we’ve been in this position now.“We played United in the last cup final and we’re more relaxed.“Now we’ve just got to review this game and look forward to another special occasion at the weekend against Liverpool.”After back-to-back defeats — in the Prem by Liverpool and Brighton in the FA Cup — as well as losing forward Anthony Gordon to suspension plus defenders Sven Botman and Lewis Hall to injury, Newcastle still saw off the Hammers to go into the final on a high.Bruno Guimaraes converted Harvey Barnes’ 63rd-minute cross to seal three points and take Toon back into the Premier League’s top six.They are now just two points off the top four in the race for the Champions League places, which has proved to be a tough balancing act alongside their run to the Carabao Cup final.Boss Howe and his players know they will have to perform much better than they did at the London Stadium if they are to make history against Liverpool on Sunday.Trippier added: “We know how close it is at the top of the table, so it was a big win, especially before the final.READ MORE SUN STORIES“You want to win any game before a cup final, you don’t want to go in on the back of a defeat.“But we know we can improve and we’ve got to show that same character on the weekend.”Trippier will lead Newcastle into the Carabao Cup finalCredit: Reuters More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Old Trafford holds so many special memories’ – Sir Alex Ferguson breaks silence on Man Utd’s £2bn 100,000-seat stadium

      by

      SIR ALEX FERGUSON has urged Manchester United to “seize the opportunity” to leave Old Trafford for a new stadium.On Tuesday, the Red Devils announced they would be moving to a brand-new, state of the art stadium near the Old Trafford side.Sir Alex Ferguson believes Man Utd should ‘seize the opportunity’ to move into a new stadiumCredit: GettyMan Utd are set to build a new £2bn stadiumCredit: AFPThe new state-of-the-art stadium is set to have a capacity of 100,000Credit: PAThe stadium, which could be completed in the next five years, is set to cost £2billion and hold 100,000 fans.Therefore, it will become the biggest stadium in the United Kingdom, surpassing Wembley.Although those affiliated with United will be sad to leave Old Trafford, the club’s home for the last 115 years, legendary manager Ferguson believes it will be hugely beneficial for the Red Devils.He said: “Manchester United should always strive for the best in everything it does, on and off the pitch.Read More on Man Utd”And that includes the stadium we play in. Old Trafford holds so many special memories for me personally.”But we must be brave and seize this opportunity to build anew home, fit for the future, where new history can be made.”Architects at Foster and Partners have said the stadium will feature an umbrella design and a new public plaza “twice the size” of Trafalgar Square.Three giant towers, inspired by the Red Devils’ trident, will dominate the skyline and hold up a sweeping canopy that will cover the stadium itself and the area around it.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsThe struggling Premier League side will fund the ground, while the UK government will support the wider park area around it.Under-fire co-owner Ratcliffe said: “Today marks the start of anincredibly exciting journey to the delivery of what will be the world’s greatest football stadium, at the centre of a regenerated Old Trafford.Sir Jim Ratcliffe explains his plans for the new Man Utd Stadium “Our current stadium has served us brilliantly for the past 115 years, but it has fallen behind the best arenas in world sport.“By building next to the existing site, we will be able to preserve the essence of Old Trafford, while creating a truly state-of-the-art stadium that transforms the fan experience only footsteps from our historic home.” More

    • 225 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘How was this allowed?’ – PSG fan uses never-before-seen tactic to help team win penalty shootout against Liverpool

      by

      A PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN fan appeared to use a never-before-seen tactic to help his side win their penalty shootout against Liverpool.The incident came as the Reds crashed out of the Champions League at Anfield on Tuesday night.A PSG fan used a never-seen-before tactic to help his side defeat Liverpool on penaltiesCredit: ReutersA fan in blue near the front to the left of the goal could be seen holding a megaphoneDarwin Nunez and Curtis Jones missed their spot kicksCredit: GettyPSG booked their place in the Champions League quartersCredit: GettyLiverpool took a 1-0 lead into the game but saw that disappear after 12 minutes thanks to Ousmane Dembele’s strike.Neither side could find a winner as the game went through extra time.And penalties were needed to split the teams.However, it was Liverpool who missed out on the quarters after Darwin Nunez and Curtis Jones saw their efforts saved.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPSG players and coaches stormed the pitch to celebrate at the final whistle.But they may have been better off thanking a smart-thinking fan in the away end at Anfield.The savvy supporter made sure to give his full backing to Luis Enrique’s team.And he did that with a never-before-seen tactic involving a MEGAPHONE.Most read in Champions LeagueCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsThe supporter held the device up behind the goal.And he continually played a siren noise from the megaphone to put off both goalie Alisson and Liverpool’s penalty takers.Daniel Sturridge shrieks as Wayne Rooney and Amazon Prime team soaked by SPRINKLERS during half time of Liverpool vs PSGSome stewards were seen wearing ear muffsIt’s unclear why they were wearing them as the siren blaredStewards wearing earmuffs did not appear to take any action, but it is unclear if they had them on just to protect themelves from that fan.Viewers at home were certainly left baffled by the approach.One said: “Kudos to the PSG fan with a megaphone behind the goal playing the siren noise.”Another declared: “How’s a PSG fan behind the goal with a megaphone playing a siren.”One noted: “Big hand to that fan, objectively hilarious.”Another boomed: “What on earth was the siren and loud hailer doing in the PSG fans?”One added: “How was that PSG fan allowed to use a siren right behind the goals.” More