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      Chelsea ratings: Filip Jorgensen makes claim for No1 shirt but Benoit Badiashile struggles versus Heidenheim

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      CHELSEA remained at the top of the table with a hard-fought 2-0 win over Heidenheim.Christopher Nkunku and Mykhailo Mudryk got on the scoreheet as the Bundesliga side gave them their toughest test so far in the Conference League.Filip Jorgensen made 11 savesCredit: RexChristopher Nkunku scored a brilliant goalCredit: RexMykhailo Mudryk wrapped up the points after good work from Jadon SanchoThe Blues were not at their best in the opening 45 minutes but were far better after a half-time team talk from Enzo Maresca.Here is how SunSport rated the Chelsea performances.Filip Jorgensen – 9He will feel he should be taking Robert Sanchez’s No1 shirt. Made 11 saves in the game.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA simply brilliant save to deny Paul Wanner at 0-0 and produced a stunning double stop as Heidenheim pushed for an equaliser.Very composed with the ball at his feet.Axel Disasi – 6One or two dodgy moments and lapses of concentration.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSProduced the front-foot defending Maresca demands to win the ball back high up the pitch for Chelsea’s opener.Tosin Adarabioyo – 7Made progressive passes between the lines to the midfielders excellently. Was vital to moving the ball up the pitch beyond the German side’s high press.Missed a huge chance to score from a set-piece just before half-time.’Referees don’t understand football!’ Ex-Prem ref slams PGMOL for serious Chelsea & Liverpool errorsBenoit Badiashile – 5Yellow card in the first minute for a cynical foul set the tone for his display.Not a very convincing performance. Another who had lapses of concentration. Renato Veiga – 7Played the inverted left-back role once again. Really understands a demanding position. Has the technical ability when on the ball and the intelligence when to move back into defence.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 7Good performance. Picked some excellent passes and swung in dangerous crosses.Wasted a big chance to score a second for Chelsea.Cesare Casadei – 5Far too many sideways or backwards passes. Worked hard defensively to keep Wanner quiet. Was sent off for two yellows seconds from the end of the game.Jadon Sancho – 8Did not do much in the first-half but picked Nkunku out well for the goal.Then continued to be a threat down the right and set up Mudryk’s goal.Christopher Nkunku – 7 Probably tried to be too clever with a chance in the first-half, trying to unnecessarily chip goalkeeper Kevin Muller. But then showed his talent by going on a sensational run through challenges and forcing a save.He kept getting into great positions and took his goal incredibly well with a brilliant first touch and calm finish.Also missed a chance to bag another goal.Mykhailo Mudryk – 7Worked incredibly hard defensively and dribbled forward with purpose.Finished brilliantly into the top corner to wrap up the points.Marc Guiu – 6Had four chances in the opening stages, scuffing the first three and rushing the fourth.But the 18-year-old worked incredibly hard and got into good positions.Subs:Joao Felix (62 minutes, for Guiu) – 6Perhaps rested for the weekend. Carney Chukwuemeka (75 minutes, Nkunku) – 6Did not do much after coming on.READ MORE SUN STORIESTyrique George (90 minutes, Sancho) – N/ASamuel Rak-Sakyi (90 minutes, Dewsbury-Hall) – N/A More

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      Gib vs Slim – Misfits Boxing 19 LIVE RESULT: Main event sets new RECORD, Salt Papi KNOCKS OUT King Kenny – updates

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      MISFITS BOXING’S Supercard has concluded – and AnEsonGib vs Slim Albaher ended in a new Misfits record as its longest-ever fight!And there were some thrilling finishes earlier on the stacked undercard, including the return of KSI’s younger brother, Deji, who stopped Dawood Savage, and Salt Papi KNOCKING OUT King Kenny.But HS Tikky Tokky did not fight, and instead was announced as the opponent for returning commentator Wade Plemons for a huge Misfits dust-up early next year.Main card start time: 4pm GMTMain event ring-walk time: 7.45pm GMT (approx)Live stream/TV: DAZNCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFollow ALL the action from the Misfits Supercard with our live blog below…G.I.BThat’s championships across different influencer boxing realms now for Gib.Copy linkCopiedGib speaksGib has spoken in his changing room after the fight, claiming that the Slim fight was a lot EASIER than he had expected.The new Misfits middleweight champ said: “Slim is a great opponent, and I don’t want to sound disrespectful.”But the fight was a lot easier than I expected.”Copy linkCopiedGib vs Slim makes historyGib’s win over Slim broke a new record for Misfits Boxing.The fight was company’s first to go EIGHT rounds.Fair play to both of the stars.Copy linkCopiedSlim’s 0 goesSlim Albaher is no longer undefeated after his points loss to Gib in the main event of Misfits Boxing’s Qatar Supercard earlier tonight.But The Hitman will come back again.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedKSI announces next fightWell, kind of.In the post-fight show following the big card, Misfits Boxing CEO KSI mentioned his next fight…and said it could be the winner of Tommy Fury and Darren Till!Fury and Till do battle in the next Misfits show on January 18.Copy linkCopiedHow the judges scored itGib could feel aggrieved at the one judge who scored it a draw.The other scored it wide in his favour.Who is up next for the Seven Figure Gibber?Copy linkCopiedMain events deliver in SaudiSalt Papi wins the punch of the night against King Kenny,The performance award goes to Gib with his victory over Slim.Those two fights were definitely worth waiting for.Now we wait to see if the two match up at the next event.Copy linkCopiedAnEsonGib becomes the new middleweight championMany thought that Slim had done enought but the judges did not.One saw it as a draw but the other two felt Gib dominated.It was a big win for Gib and he leaves the ring with the championship belt on.Credit: @MisfitsBoxingCopy linkCopiedAnEsonGib wins by majority decisionCopy linkCopiedAnEsonGib vs Slim Albaher (Round 8)It will be interesting to see how the judges score this.Gib needed another big round to stand a chance of getting the decision.This another tight round, difficult to call who won it.They both landed good punches but nothing that rocked either boxer.As the ball goes they both celebrate like they have won it.Copy linkCopiedAnEsonGib vs Slim Albaher (Round 7)It is all about who has the most left in the tank now.Both fighters are feeling the punches with bruises to the face.Neither boxer is letting up but Gib is looking to keep the tempo high.Gib is throwing some big shots but not landing them.Slim is looking like he is tiring slightly.Copy linkCopiedAnEsonGib vs Slim Albaher (Round 6)Slim is showing that he is able to take the shots in this fight.Gib is looking to keep the momentum going.Utilising the body shots still and trying the disguised head shot.Another close round.Copy linkCopiedAnEsonGib vs Slim Albaher (Round 5)Another great round from Gib.He lands some big blows and asks some real questions of the chin of Slim.Towards the end of the round Slim lands some punches himself but they are also countered well.Tough one to call but Gib may have just edged this one.Copy linkCopiedAnEsonGib vs Slim Albaher (Round 4)This was the best round for Gib in the whole fight.He starts coming inside and landing some good blows.One of which catches Slim on the chin and really rocks him.Towards the end of the round Gib turns up the heat and asks some serious questions of the champion.This fight is starting to boil over now.Copy linkCopiedAnEsonGib vs Slim Albaher (Round 3)Gib seems to be struggling with attacking moves.He is staying mobile but when he comes inside he is not throwing anything that can hurt his opponent.Slim lands a couple of good hits in the round but in the latter stages Gib finally lands some good blows.Tough one to call this round.Copy linkCopiedAnEsonGib vs Slim Albaher (Round 2)Gib comes into the fight a lot more here.His movement is preventing Slim from picking his shots.Body shots are the way forward for Gib although they do not seem to be rocking the champ.Towards the end of the round Slim lands a good hook which the challenge definitely felt.Copy linkCopiedAnEsonGib vs Slim Albaher (Round 1)The pair did not even want to touch gloves before the fight.Slim starts on the front foot and takes it to Gib.A punch over the top from Slim really rocks Gib.He looks like he really felt that one.You would have to say that Slim took that round for sure.Copy linkCopiedAnEsonGib vs Slim AlbaherNow for the main event of the evening.Gib versus Slim.There is no love lost between this pair and both fighters want to get the knockdown here.Copy linkCopiedSalt Papi vs King Kenny (Round 3)King Kenny keeps stepping off to his right whenever it seemed a punch was about to come in.Salt Papi noticed this and as they were both on the inside he catches him with a well-timed left uppercut and catches him on the chin.King Kenny’s legs go from underneath him and he heads to the canvas.Despite trying to get up, he is like a new born foal and his legs are all over the shop.The referee decides he has had enough.Copy linkCopiedSalt Papi wins by TKOCopy linkCopiedSalt Papi vs King Kenny (Round 2)For the second time in the fight, King Kenny throws his opponent to the canvas.He seems to think this is WWE also here tonight.When Salt Papi comes inside with his big shots, Kenny just looks to duck underneath them and get under him.Nobody lands anything of note in that round, it ends with the referee warning them both at punching when holding their opponent.Copy linkCopiedSalt Papi vs King Kenny (Round 1)As ever, King Kenny makes a slow start to the fight.Salt Papi catches him with that big left hook of is.The body shot seemed to hurt Kenny and he replies with a big hit himself in anger.Salt Papi is constantly looking to come inside while King Kenny looks to use his long reach to keep him away.Tough one to call still after that first round.Copy linkCopiedSalt Papi vs King KennyIt is co-main event time now,This bout is scheduled for six rounds.With these two fighters, this one could be explosive.Copy linkCopiedKSI goading the crowd in the ringEver the man to steal the limelight, KSI is in the middle turning things into WWE.He tells the crowd that he is here to make an announcement about him being CEO of Misfits.Out to the ring comes Wade but the curveball is that he does not want to become CEO he wants to fight.All we need now is Vince McMahon to come into the ring.Copy linkCopiedDeji vs Dawood Savage Deji went to war in the third round as he sends Savage to the canvas with a great left hand.The Japanese boxer gets back up but as they are both trading punches Deji seems to catch him with a flying right.It is enough to send him to the canvas and the referee calls the fight.Copy linkCopied More

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      Heidenheim 0 Chelsea 2: Nkunku and Mudryk both score but Casadei is sent off with second last kick of game

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      CHELSEA’S second string maintained their 100 per cent record in the third tier of European competition – but not without a number of scares.Top scorer Christopher Nkunku claimed his seventh goal in the Europa Conference League and on another night might have had a hat-trick.Christopher Nkunku scored a close-range opener for ChelseaCredit: RexIt is the Frenchman’s 11th goal of the season in all competitionsCredit: ReutersMykhailo Mudryk doubled Chelsea’s lead with a brilliant finishCredit: GettyIt is the Ukrainian’s third Europa Conference League goal of the campaignCredit: RexHeidenheim had the share of chances despite having less of the ballBut Heidenheim, who also went into the game with three wins from three, caused plenty of problems for the Blues.Blues goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen made a string of saves, the best of them after Nkunku’s goal and before Mykhailo Mudryk sealed victory with less than five minutes to go.And apart from Jadon Sancho, none of the other outfield players in the cream-coloured kit made much of a case to rise into the first 11 for Sunday’s clash with Aston Villa.As usual Enzo Maresca made wholesale changes from his first 11, with only Benoit Badiashile keeping his place from the win at Leicester.READ MORE ON CHELSEABut Chelsea learned within a minute that it would not be another Thursday night stroll.Badiashile was booked for fouling Heidenheim winger Leonardo Scienza and Mikkel Kaufmann almost touched in the resulting free kick.It was an entertaining, end-to-end game in a festive atmosphere.Marc Guiu, twice, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall had shots saved, while Jorgensen denied Kaufmann, Scienza and Mathias Honsak.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMykhailo Mudryk wanted a penalty for a challenge on him but the referee waved it away even after going to the monitorCredit: GettyEnzo Maresca’s men remain the only side to have a 100 per cent record in the Europa Conference LeagueCredit: GettyAfter Nkunku spooned a finish over the bar, Chelsea were awarded a penalty when Mykhailo Mudryk went flying over a challenge by home captain Patrick Mainka.But Dutch referee Serdar Gozubuyuk went back on his decision after being summoned to the VAR monitor.Inside Frank Lampard’s superstitious routine as new Coventry boss’ success could depend on Chelsea legend’s DOGNkunku drew another save from home ‘keeper Kevin Muller, Tosin Adarabioyo shot just wide and the half somehow ended 0-0.Heidenheim had another chance before Nkunku broke the deadlock.Sancho’s cross sat up nicely and the France international found a fine finish.The home side, with their supporters keeping up constant noise behind the goal they were attacking, kept going and Scienza curled a shot just wide.Chelsea ratings vs HeidenheimChelsea remained at the top of the table with a hard-fought 2-0 win over Heidenheim.Christopher Nkunku and Mykhailo Mudryk got on the scoresheet as the Bundesliga side gave them their toughest test so far in the Conference League.The Blues were not at their best in the opening 45 minutes but were far better after a half-time team talk from Enzo Maresca.Click here to see how SunSport’s Alex Smith rated the Chelsea performances.Wanner should have equalised, but Jorgensen made a fine save and then another from Scienza’s follow-up.Substitute Joao Felix sent Nkunku through on the break but Muller kept his team in it with another save.Home sub Maximilian Breunig had the ball in the net but it was ruled out for offside and Muller denied Dewsbury-Hall at the other end.READ MORE SUN STORIESMudryk finally killed the game with an emphatic shot into the top corner after more good work by Sancho.Cesare Casadei was sent off for a second yellow card deep into stoppage time, which reflected a tough but ultimately successful evening for the Blues. More

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      Heidenheim 0-2 Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Nkunku and Mudryk fire Blues to fourth straight win in Conference League – updates

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      CHELSEA have beaten Heidenheim 2-0 to continue their perfect record in the Conference League.Early in the second half, Christopher Nkunku broke the deadlock with a superb finish.On 86 minutes, Mykhailo Mudryk slammed one right in the top right corner to make it 2-0 and secure a fourth straight win for Chelsea in Europe.The Blues’ win was clouded by Cesare Casadei receiving a red card for a second yellow with seconds remaining.Match result: Heidenheim 0-2 ChelseaHeidenheim starting team: Muller, Siersleben, Mainka, Scienza, Wanner, Honsak, Traore, Kaufmann, Theuerkauf, Maloney, DorschChelsea starting team: Jorgensen, Disasi, Tosin, Badiashile, Veiga, Casadei, Dewsbury-Hall, Sancho, Nkunku, Mudryk, GuiuBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollow ALL the action from the Voith-Arena with our live blog below…ReportChelsea’s second string maintained their 100 per cent record in the third tier of European competition – but not without a number of scares.Top scorer Christopher Nkunku claimed his seventh goal in the Europa Conference League and on another night might have had a hat-trick.But Heidenheim, who also went into the game with three wins from three, caused plenty of problems for the Blues.Blues goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen made a string of saves, the best of them after Nkunku’s goal and before Mykhailo Mudryk sealed victory with less than five minutes to go.Copy linkCopiedFull time statsThe numbers behind the 90 minutes.Chelsea well in control of the ball but Heidenheim did have their chances – actually registering more efforts on target than Chelsea.The Blues with over double the completed passes.Copy linkCopiedFull time from SunSport’s Dan King in GermanyAfter the flood of goals that overwhelmed Noah, a far more challenging night for Chelsea in the depths of southern Germany. Heidenheim will surely climb higher than the 15th place they currently occupy in the Bundesliga. And Cesare Casadei will probably not be heartbroken by his late red card because it means he misses the trip to freezing Kazahkstan next month.
      Copy linkCopiedFull time in HeidenheimHeidenheim were perhaps a touch unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet tonight.But a second string Chelsea side proved just too strong in the second half.Two assists on the night for Jadon Sancho who was heavily involved in both goals.Christopher Nkunku and Mykhailo Mudryk the scorers and a decent away win in Europe.Copy linkCopiedFT! Chelsea win 2-0 at Heidenheim to guarantee European football after Christmas!Copy linkCopiedRED CARDCesare Casadei is shown a second yellow card with a few seconds to go.The youngster looks absolutely devastated with that as he trudges off. It takes the shine off what was a decent night for him too.Copy linkCopied90+4 – Heidenheim 0-2 ChelseaChelsea win a corner and look quite happy to run the clock down as Joao Felix takes his time making it across.Copy linkCopiedFive minutes added onChelsea should have enough to see this one out from here.Smoke fills the air as yet more pyro is let off.Copy linkCopied90+1 – Heidenheim 0-2 ChelseaTwo late Chelsea changes:OFF: Sancho & Dewsbury-HallON: George & Rak-SakyiCopy linkCopiedGOOOO – NO!Nearly a grandstand finish.Max Breunig finds the net for the home side once again.Max Breunig is offside when doing so once again.Copy linkCopiedGOAL DETAILStunning finish from Mudryk and it’s game over in Germany.Again, Sancho is the architect. He works a really clever one-two with Dewsbury-Hall who has been bright all night.The pair work it well and Sancho darts into the box before laying it off to Mudryk on the edge of the box who smashes it into the top corner with a first time finish.Copy linkCopiedGame over now!Copy linkCopied73 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaJorgensen and Veiga both booked in the space of 90 seconds.Veiga for a foul on halfway, Jorgensen for time-wasting.That shows where this game is at the minute.Copy linkCopiedGOOO – NO!The home fans just getting excited for a few seconds there when Max Breunig found the net with a header.But he’s roughly a mile offside and it’s quickly ruled out.Chelsea living dangerously here.Copy linkCopied73 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaIt is game over – for Nkunku.He was hurt from that challenge and missed chance and signaled to the bench straight away.He makes his way to the sidelines but he’s going to be replaced. Hopefully nothing too serious.OFF: NkunkuON: ChukwuemekaCopy linkCopied73 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaShould be game over!From the edge of their own box, Chelsea play three slick passes which completely cut open the German side and Nkunku is inside his own half but is clean through.His first touch is good as he bears down on goal. The defender gets back to put him off with a slight nudge in the back but he gets his shot away and Muller keeps it out.Copy linkCopied69 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaHeidenheim just haven’t managed to get Paul Wanner on the ball enough tonight.But he’s involved here, capitalising on more strange Chelsea defending to get a strike on goal which Jorgensen saves tremendously well.The home side on top at the minute chasing a famous equaliser.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King in GermanyHeidenheim aren’t giving up, nor are their fans. Those flares just keep on coming in the home end, no matter how many times they are politely told it’s not allowed. Joao Felix has replaced Marc Guiu, Christopher Nkunku has gone up top and the game is in the balance. Fabulous double save by Filip Jorgensen keeps Chelsea ahead.Copy linkCopied62 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaNearly a stunning equaliser from Scienza – but what on earth were Chelsea doing at the back there.From a goal kick, Badiashile gives it to Jorgensen when the keeper’s not looking. So he has to scramble to try and clear it but it’s charged down.The ball looks to be headed for a Chelsea throw and Disasi kids on he’s going to get it but tries to be clever to let it run out.He’s then made to look a right mug when Kaufmann bursts his lungs to keep it in on the slide. It’s knocked to Scienza who has a go from 25 yards on the angle but dips and curls agonisingly wide.Copy linkCopiedSome statTen goals in his last 11 European games for Nkunku.Copy linkCopied56 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaGood work from Sancho once again.He beats his man with good footwork before a low cross into Guiu but good defending at the back sees the home side get bodies in the way to scramble it to safety.Copy linkCopiedToo goodChristopher Nkunku has to play more.In truth, his Chelsea career would probably be much different had he not been injured early into his Stamford Bridge life.He’s wasted as just a European player in this competition.Copy linkCopiedGOAL DETAILSmashing wee goal or Chelsea and a customary European goal from Christopher Nkunku.Dewsbury-Hall feeds Sancho down the right side of the area.His pick-out for the late run of Nkunku looks to be a difficult one for the forward.But on the stretch, Nkunku brings it down with his left foot and into his path superbly before finishing coolly from close range into the top corner with his right foot.Terrific goal.Copy linkCopiedHe’s done it again!Copy linkCopied49 – Heidenheim 0-0 Chelsea’Come on Chelsea, come on Chelsea’ – the chant from the Chelsea supporters as the Blues enjoy a couple of minutes of good possession.Dewsbury-Hall almost slips a great through-ball for Guiu to be sent clean through but it’s a last-ditch interception from Scienza which cuts it out.Copy linkCopied More

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      The bittersweet story of Larry Gains, one of boxing’s greatest heavyweights who was shamefully denied world title chance

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      IN A ceremony in Essex on December 12 a blue plaque will be unveiled in memory of Larry Gains, who died 41 years ago.The name Gains will mean little to fight fans — yet he was one of the greatest and most popular heavyweights ever to grace British rings.Larry Gains will receive a blue plaque in a ceremony in Essex in DecemberGains was one of the most popular heavyweights ever to grace British ringsGains’ exceptional story is a bitter-sweet saga.Born in Toronto in 1900, the black Canadian spent six weeks on a cattle ship sailing to England seeking fame and fortune back in 1923.After making his pro debut in London — the start of his exceptional 146-fight career — he based himself in Paris and became a close friend of the American writer Ernest Hemingway, then a newspaper reporter.He fought all over Europe, forging a huge reputation — including a two-round KO of future world champion Max Schmeling.READ MORE IN BOXINGIn 1930, he settled in Leicester. He was idolised by the locals who treated him as one of their own.A crowd of 30,000 packed Leicester’s Welford Road rugby ground to see him KO Phil Scott and win the British Empire title in 1931.He fought in front of huge crowds in London — there was 70,000 at the White City Stadium to see him outpoint Primo Carnera before the Italian became world champ.Whenever Gains returned to Leicester after winning a big fight he would be met off the train by vast numbers led by the mayor and paraded through the streets.Most read in BoxingGains beat the beat Primo Carnera on points in 1932But Gains was in his prime in the most deplorably dishonourable 22 years in boxing’s long history.Shamefully Gains was never allowed to challenge for the world heavyweight championship, though more than capable of winning.He was the victim of the iniquitous colour bar at the time which prevented black boxers from competing for the richest prize in sport.That poisonous doctrine lasted from the moment Jack Johnson was defeated by Jess Willard in 1915 to when the ‘Brown Bomber’ Joe Louis began his illustrious professional reign in 1937.Gains would have beaten Schmeling and Carnera a second time, along with Jack Sharkey, Max Baer and James J. Braddock, the other world champs in the 1930s.But the racial prejudice of that era was deep-rooted.In a letter Gains wrote to Hemingway in 1925 — which inexplicably ended up in Boston’s JFK museum — he offered to spar with world champion Jack Dempsey. Racism prevented Gains from a shot at a world title – which he would’ve wonBut the Manassa Mauler turned him down as — in his words — he refused to train with “coloured men”.Gains consoled himself with being Canadian champion and twice being crowned the “coloured world heavyweight champion”.His last fight was in 1942 as he later joined the Army and spent the Second World War as a Sergeant Major and physical training instructor.I met him several times when he was President of the London Ex-Boxers Association. Always immaculately dressed in a suit, he was a man of great dignity.What impressed me the most — despite the humiliation he suffered — was that Gains didn’t bear grudges.Before he died of a heart attack aged 82 in 1983 he said: “For me the world title was always the impossible dream, the unreachable star.“The politics of the day was against it but I have no bitterness or regrets.”Gains’ descendants will gather at the Shoeburyness Hotel — his training camp was in the Essex seaside town — for the unveiling of the plaque in honour of him.His great-great grandson Michael Gains, who got the OK for the initiative, said: “I felt his amazing life deserved permanent recognition.”READ MORE SUN STORIESJimmy Cannon, a leading New York sportswriter once said of Joe Louis: “He was a credit to his race — the human race”.That judgement equally applies to Larry Gains.Larry Gains v Salvatore Ruggirello at Royal Albert Hall More

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      Ronaldinho scores stunning free-kick aged 44 as Barcelona legend proves he’s still got it in El Clasico Legends game

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      BARCELONA legend Ronaldinho rolled back the years by scoring a stunning free-kick in an El Clasico exhibition match.The 44-year-old shared the pitch with Luis Figo, Clarence Seedorf, former Arsenal striker Julio Baptista and Rivaldo in Qatar on Thursday.Ronaldinho showed he still has it with a sleek free-kickThe Barca legend doubled the lead in an El Clasico exhibition match on ThursdayThe Samba legend couldn’t help but celebrateBarca went 1-0 up early on through Juan Pablo Sorin, before winning a free-kick from around 22 yards out.Naturally, Ronaldinho stepped up and curled a beautiful right-footed effort into the top left corner past ex-keeper Francisco Buyo.The former Madrid stopper – who is, it must be said, 66 years old – had no hope of reaching it.The Brazilian World Cup winner doubled Barca’s lead inside 15 minutes.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut the Catalans couldn’t replicate the 4-0 pasting the current flock imposed on Carlo Ancelotti’s Madrid last month.The Madrid Legends eventually found a way back into the game, which went on to end 2-2 in Qatar.Former Portugal winger and Ballon d’Or winner Figo, who played for both sides in his prime, brought one back for Madrid in the second half.And Edwin Congo’s low finish in the 63rd minute levelled the score.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIt was Jose Mourinho’s old foe Frank De Boer who fumbled the pass to put Congo in a one-on-one with the keeper.Barca had a chance to win the game late on from the penalty spot, but Kluivert’s effort was saved by substitute keeper Pedro Contreras.Spectacular Timelapse of the works in the Spotify Camp Nou But Ronaldinho went onto score in the penalty shootout afterwards.As did Figo, Congo and Sorin as the Catalan’s edged the shootout 4-2.Ronaldinho’s most famous free-kick was the effort he floated over England’s David Seaman at the 2002 World Cup.Ronaldinho’s son Joao Mendes joined Burnley’s under-21 squad this summer.The 19-year-old midfielder had previously been at Barca’s La Masia youth academy.Mendes most recently featured in Burnley’s 5-0 win over Luton Town’s under-21s last Friday.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis father won the World Cup in 2002 and the Champions League with Barcelona in 2006, and was awarded the Ballon d’Or in 2005.The legends will play in another El Clasico before the end of the year, with the halves lasting a slightly shortened 40 minutes each.Ronaldinho’s son Joao Mendes joined Burnley after coming through the ranks at BarcaCredit: FC Barcelona via InstagramWho are these famous footballers? More

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      Fans shocked to see who Sir Alex Ferguson was sat next to at Man Utd vs Bodo/Glimt as they say ‘not what I expected’

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON was in the stands at Old Trafford for Ruben Amorim’s first home game as Manchester United manager… and fans were stunned by the man sat next to him.Amorim, 39, took charge of his opening match as Red Devils boss on Sunday in a 1-1 draw with Ipswich at Portman Road.Sir Alex Ferguson smiled as he made his way into Old Trafford on Thursday nightCredit: X/MANUTDFerguson sat next to a veteran Scottish manager for the gameBut Thursday evening saw him step in front of the Old Trafford faithful as Man Utd took on Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League.And legendary manager Ferguson, 82, was seen coming into the ground as he prepared to catch his first glimpse of Amorim’s side.Man Utd shared a picture of a smiling Fergie and added the caption: “European nights 🤝 Sir Alex 🤩.”Then during the game he was seen in his seat alongside veteran Scottish manager Dick Campbell.READ MORE ON MAN UTDCampbell, 71, has coached a host of teams in Scotland across a 37-year period – Cowdenbeath, Dunfermline Athletic, Brechin City, Partick Thistle, Ross County, Forfar Athletic, Arbroath and East Fife.Reacting to Fergie being next to Campbell, one fan said: “Dick Campbell is not a face I expected to see on this video 😂.”While another added: “One of the greatest football managers of all time sitting besides Sir Alex Ferguson.”Man Utd recently stopped paying Ferguson’s £2million-a-year salary as an ambassador of the club.Most read in Europa LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRuben Amorim’s first home game as Manchester United boss comes on Thursday nightCredit: GettyHowever, he remains a non-executive member of the board.Fergie won 38 trophies including 13 Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues during his 27 years as Man Utd manager.Sir Alex Ferguson ECSTATIC as his horse Spirit Dancer makes history with back-to-back wins in $1million Bahrain raceBut one record he lost on Wednesday night was his long-standing Champions League benchmark.Fergie had coached the most Champions League matches – 214 – a feat which was surpassed by Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti as he took charge of his 215th at Anfield in a 2-0 defeat. More

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      Sylvester Stallone issues grovelling apology to Jake Paul after deleting post about Mike Tyson Netflix fight

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      ROCKY star Sylvester Stallone has issued a grovelling apology to Jake Paul after claiming his life was “spared” by Mike Tyson.But Stallone first accused Tyson of producing “one of the great Oscar winning performances of all time” in his unanimous defeat to Paul.Sylvester Stallone has apologised after claiming Mike Tyson ‘spared’ Jake PaulPaul, 27, beat Iron Mike, 58, by unanimous decision earlier this monthAnd fans both inside the Dallas Cowboy’s stadium and at home were left bitterly disappointed with the display from both corners.Many accused the Netflix eight-round fight of being “fixed” as both Iron Mike and Paul barely threw any punches between them.Paul admitted to carrying the 58-year-old former world heavyweight champion, stating that he “wanted to give the fans a show” and that he “didn’t want to hurt somebody that didn’t need to be hurt.”But Stallone was not convinced and suggested Tyson “spared” Paul in a now-deleted Instagram post.READ MORE IN BOXINGThe 78-year-old actor’s caption read: “Just to set my personal record straight.”Business is business. SOMETIMES you have to do hard things and sacrifice for the sake of helping your FAMILY….”I have known this unbelievable athlete since he’s 19 years old and what we saw was him giving one of the great Oscar winning performances of all time!FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Please, Jake, be grateful, HE SPARED YOUR LIFE!” Most read in BoxingStallone’s post prompted an angry response from Paul in the comments.Jake Paul teases major career change from boxing to follow in footsteps of brother Logan despite beating Mike Tyson The 27-year-old brutally replied: “Always looked up to you as kid, but now you are a spreader of lies against my name. “Sad to see you fall. Maybe it’s all the plastic surgery.”But Stallone has since rolled back on his harsh words and apologised to Paul five days later.Stallone edited the post, writing: “Just to set my personal record straight … upon second viewing the best man won that night. My apologies. Keep punching.”He has since deleted the post altogether.Tyson’s final bow defeat to Paul was one of the most-watched sporting events EVER as it peaked at 65 million streams.JAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUTPaul was forced to respond to a series of claims questioning the legitimacy of the fight.His promotional company’s statement read: “This is not the first time Jake Paul has faced unfounded scepticism or outright disbelief as a professional athlete.READ MORE SUN STORIES”And frankly, the claim that his bout must have been rigged is just the latest backhanded compliment to come his way.”This event, which broke attendance and viewership milestones for a professional sporting event, is yet another example of his ability to deliver on the biggest stage.”Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson round-by-roundMIKE TYSON’s long-awaited return to the ring didn’t have the fairytale ending fight fans dreamed of.SunSport’s boxing expert Wally Downes Jr recaps one of the drabbest and most forgettable nights in boxing history.And he didn’t hold back, issuing a scathing assessment of social media sensation Jake Paul.Round OnePaul says “I love you, Mike” just before the opening bell sounds. He quickly runs away and holds the boxing legend.Tyson draws a big reaction from the crowd as he lands a jab and a good right hand.Verdict: 10-9 TysonRound TwoPaul ran away in the opener and held – just like we thought he would.Tommy Fury had it first and now Mike Tyson. It’s clever because Tyson will tire. Paul tags Tyson’s body with a straight right.Tyson looks spent now. 180 seconds in and the fight looks over.Verdict: 10-9 TysonRound ThreeThe legend cannot even keep his gumshield in. As expected it’s a waste of time. Paul has run away until the 58-year-old has tired.Shooting ducks in a barrel now. Tyson might get hurt here. Paul lands a couple of clumsy shots and Tyson wobbles backwards.Tragic after three.Verdict: 10-9 PaulRound FourThis is proper rubbish. The crowd are bored and boos are being heard.This is just two tired big lumps going at it.  One a legend, one a promoter.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound FivePaul jabs the body and aims right for the head and another one-two clips the icon.Tyson cannot keep his mouthpiece in, he is gasping for air. Paul lands a left hook but then so does Tyson.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound SixThank God these weren’t three-minute rounds. We are getting about four punches per round.Tyson is gasping in the air but replays show a left hook did graze Paul’s beard.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound SevenTyson slips a jab and tries an uppercut. The commentator admits it has been a “sad” spectacle.The AT&T stadium has been utterly stunk out. Paul is looking just as tired as Tyson.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound EightGo back to YouTube, Jake. You’re an excellent conman. But you’ve never been a boxer.The Judges decide: 80-72, 79-73 and 79-73. I’m glad Tyson gets paid and has stayed safe.But what a laughable performance from Paul to add to his stinker with Tommy Fury.Verdict 10-9 PaulSunSport’s final scorecard – 78-74 for Jake PaulClick to read the full round-by-round breakdown. More