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    Mo Salah out for revenge on Liverpool team-mate Sadio Mane as Egypt face Senegal again in World Cup play-off showdown

    MOHAMED SALAH has vowed his Egypt team will give everything to reach the World Cup – and avenge their agonising African Nations Cup defeat to Senegal.The 29-year-old Liverpool forward will once again go up against club team-mate Sadio Mane in a crunch World Cup play-off against Senegal – with a place in Qatar at stake.
    Mohamed Salah will be looking for revenge on Liverpool team-mate Sadio ManeCredit: Rex
    Mohamed Salah’s Egypt was beaten by Sadio Mane’s Senegal at the Africa Cup of NationsCredit: EPA
    The two teams clashed just seven weeks ago in Cameroon in the final of the African tournament with Mane’s Senegal prevailing on penalties after a 0-0 draw in 120 minutes.
    Egypt, managed by former Manchester United coach Carlos Queiroz, will host tonight’s first leg in Cairo with the return in Diamniadio.
    Salah, who saw his appearances at the 2018 World Cup hampered by injury, said: “We promise everyone that we will give everything to win this match.
    “I don’t want to talk too much about it, because anyone can see the importance of the two matches and God willing, we will win.”
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Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Read More in 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BALL BOY TO BALLER .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Liverpool ball boy ‘hero’ v Barca now U18s star with same goals as Salah
    Meanwhile Egypt’s assistant coach Roger De Sa reckons a good World Cup is the only thing missing from superstar Salah’s CV.
    And he hopes the Pharaohs’ talisman can ensure that by not taking on all the pressure and responsibility on his own shoulders.
    De Sa said: “All his career is missing is big performances at a World Cup, and I think that is what he is looking to achieve.
    “He does carry the team a lot and maybe he needs to ease that pressure on himself and just play naturally a bit more.
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    “We have talked to him about that, he is a wonderful person and human being. Working with him every day is incredible.
    “Mohamed is a down-to-earth, humble guy, great to coach, and always ready to give 120 per cent.” More

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    Wales 2 Austria 1 LIVE REACTION: Superb Bale brace inspires Dragons to World Cup play-off final spot – latest updates

    WALES reached the final of the World Cup play-offs with a 2-1 win at home to Austria. Gareth Bale scored an epic free-kick and doubles his lead with a brilliant finish in the second half before Marcel Sabitzer pulled one back late on.

    RESULT: Wales 2-1 Austria
    Wales: Hennessey; Ampadu, Rodon, B Davies; C Roberts, Ramsey, Allen, N Williams; Wilson, James, Bale
    Austria: Lindner; Lainer, Hinteregger, Dragovic, Alaba; Seiwald, Laimer; Schlager, Sabitzer, Baumgartner; Arnautovic

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    Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
    That’s all from the Cardiff City Stadium
    Wales are just one win away from earning their place in this year’s World Cup!
    The Dragons will now face either Scotland or Ukraine in the play-off final in June.
    Thank you for reading, and goodnight!
    Rob Page reacts
    When speaking to Sky Sports, Page said:
    “I don’t think it’s sunk in properly yet. What a game, what a night, what an occasion.
    “The star man turns up – I have just said to him that’s the best free-kick I have ever seen in my life.
    “Two great goals, a deflected goal against makes it an anxious last half hour. But to a man I thought they were outstanding.
    “We had to dig deep at the end.
    “They thoroughly deserve all the plaudits they are going to get, those players. They are an unbelievable group of men.
    “He (Bale) hasn’t played many minutes but at least he has been training day in, day out. Did we anticipate he would play 90 minutes? Probably not. We knew we would get an outstanding hour out of him.
    “In the end he cramps up and we take him off.
    “We are a cup final away now, that’s it. We prepared like any other game and it was all about Austria. They are a very good team. We are one win away from the World Cup.”
    Credit: Getty
    Elsewhere in the World Cup Qualifiers
    European champions Italy WILL NOT compete in this year’s World Cup after being subject to a 1-0 defeat to North Macedonia.
    Portugal came out on top in a 3-1 win against Turkey.
    Meanwhile, Sweden defeated Czech Republic 1-0.
    Aaron Ramsey reacts
    When speaking to Sky Sports, Ramsey said:
    “It means everything. Playing in front of these (supporters) – what more could you want?
    “We’re one game away from the World Cup which is everything for myself, for the nation, for the group of lads. This is what we want.
    “We’ve come a very long way since the early days and this would be the icing on the cake now for us to go on and qualify for this.
    “We know there is still a bit of work to be done but we can enjoy tonight.”
    Credit: Getty
    Gareth Bale reacts
    When speaking to Sky Sports, Bale said:
    “It was a massive game. We knew that. We had to perform and dig deep and use our experience in big games. It’s the perfect scenario.
    “I can hit a free-kick if I am able to play. It was nice to see it go in. The early goal gave us that momentum and the second one was nice as well.
    “I had some cramp at the end which I guess is normal but l will run into the ground for this country and we all did that tonight.
    “That’s half the job done. We will enjoy tonight. There is still another tough game against either Scotland or Ukraine and we will be ready for that when it comes.”
    Credit: AFP
    Bale Force
    Gareth Bale has scored his seventh direct free-kick goal for Wales, with his first and most recent such goals for the national team being separated by 15 years.
    He never fails to deliver for the Dragons!
    7 – Gareth Bale has scored his seventh direct free-kick goal for Wales, with his first and most recent such goals for the national team being separated by 15 years and 168 days (October 2006 vs Slovakia). Longevity. pic.twitter.com/KusNkSdgw0— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 24, 2022

    Full Time – Wales 2-1 Austria
    The Dragons deservedly earn their place in the World Cup Qualifying Play-Off final after a superb performance against a strong Austria side.
    From the opening minute they continued to play with a high intensity which forced their opposition into making numerous mistakes.
    Gareth Bale provided a special performance which will go down in history in the eyes of Wales supporters.
    Credit: Reuters
    Full Time – Wales 2-1 Austria
    What a night for Wales!
    They are just one win away from a place in the World Cup!
    Full Time – Wales 2-1 Austria
    They’ve done it!
    Wales are one step closer to the World Cup!
    Credit: Getty
    90+3. Wales 2-1 Austria
    Wales make another change.
    Mepham comes on for the final minute – he has replaced Bale.
    90+2. Wales 2-1 Austria
    Austria are throwing everything at Wales in a bid to equalise.
    The ball is sent to Arnautovic in the box, but his header falls directly to Hennessey who does not rush to release.
    90. Wales 2-1 Austria
    Four minutes will be added on…
    89. Wales 2-1 Austria
    Wales make their first change of the evening.
    Johnson comes on to replace James.
    88. Wales 2-1 Austria
    Lainer is booked for a late challenge on Wilson.
    Wales have a free kick in a threatening position, but they are unable to make the most of it.
    83. Wales 2-1 Austria
    The Dragons are really beginning to look tired now.
    Wilson has gone down holding his calf, it looks like some substitutions will have to be made very soon.
    77. Wales 2-1 Austria
    Austria make two more changes.
    Baumgartner is replaced by Weimann.
    Schlager is replaced by Lazaro.
    74. Wales 2-1 Austria
    Bale steps up to take a free kick on the edge of the box.
    His effort hits the wall, but the Dragons appeal for handball and a penalty.
    However, the referee dismisses the claims.
    71. Wales 2-1 Austria
    James has a golden opportunity to extend the lead as he finds himself one-on-one with Lindner, but he slows down before lining up the shot, giving Hinteregger time to track back and make the tackle.
    Credit: Getty
    65. Wales 2-1 Austria
    Lainer sends a cross to Sabitzer on the edge of the box.
    The midfielder aims his shot towards the bottom corner, but the ball deflects off Davies’ leg and flies over Hennessey and into the goal.
    Credit: AFP
    64. GOOOOAAAAAALLLLLL AUSTRIA!!!!!
    Austria are back in it!
    62. Wales 2-0 Austria
    Austria have made a substitution.
    Laimer is replaced by Kalajdzic.
    59. Wales 2-0 Austria
    Wilson is booked for a clumsy challenge on Schlager.
    Austria have a free kick in a dangerous position.
    Alaba steps up to take it, but his strike hits the wall.
    55. Wales 2-0 Austria
    The Dragons almost score a third!
    James drives towards goal before aiming a shot towards the bottom corner, but Lindner is able to make the save.
    52. Wales 2-0 Austria
    He’s done it again! What a finish from Bale!
    James sends a cross into the box.
    Bale brings the ball down with an excellent first touch before unleashing a wonderful strike into the top right corner from an awkward angle.
    Credit: Getty
    51. GOOOAAAALLLLLLL WALES!!!!!!!
    BALE DOUBLES THE LEAD WITH A SUBLIME FINISH!
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    ‘They should be ashamed’ – Gareth Bale hits back at ‘disgusting’ Spanish press after Wales World Cup heroics

    GARETH BALE hit back at Spanish press who labelled him a “parasite” – saying “they should be ashamed.”Wales secured their place in the World Cup play-off final on March 29 with a 2-1 win over Path A favourites Austria.
    Gareth Bale hit back at the Spanish press after his match-winning performance against WalesCredit: PA
    And Real Madrid outcast Bale produced the goods for his country AGAIN, scoring an stunning free-kick before striking again in the second half to extend Wales’ lead.
    Marcel Sabitzer pulled one back for the visitors, but Austria were unable to muster a second – bowing out of the World Cup qualifiers.
    Wales will now face either Scotland or Ukraine – who play in June – for a place at the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
    Bale was not fit for Sunday’s El Clasico thrashing at the hands of Barcelona – but was fit enough to play for his country.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Wales 2 Austria 1 .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Watch Bale’s STUNNING dipping free-kick fire Dragons closer to World Cup
    And Spanish media have since savaged Bale with headlines including ‘The Miracle of Wales’ and ‘It doesn’t hurt any more’ while the out-of-favour star was also mocked up as a ‘parasite’.
    Bale said: “No. I don’t need to send a message, honestly. It’s a waste of my time.
    “It’s disgusting and they should be shamed of themselves. I’m not fussed  – end of.”
    And Bale is ready to wind his continental critics up even more as he admitted he is ready to “run into the ground” for his country.
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    On the win over Austria, he added: “It was a massive game.
    “We spoke about how we needed to perform and we knew we needed to dig in deep and look at our experience in big  games. It’s the perfect scenario.
    “I can always hit a free-kick if I’m able to play. Nice to see it go in and give us that momentum. The second one was nice as well.
    “I had some cramp at the end but I’ll run into the ground for this country and we all did that.”
    The Welsh hero insists the job is not finished, with either Scotland or Ukraine left to play before fans can dream of a December trip to the Middle East.
    But Bale insists he and his team-mates will be ready when the time comes to fire Wales to their first World Cup tournament since 1958.
    He admitted: “It’s half the job done but we’ll enjoy this.
    “There is still another tough game against either Scotland or Ukraine and we will be ready for that when it comes.”
    Marca’s front page read ‘now it doesn’t hurt’ after Bale’s recovery to play for Wales More

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    Sweden 1 Czech Republic 0 LIVE REACTION: Swedes reach World Cup play-off final after Quaison’s extra-time winner

    SWEDEN reached the World Cup play-off final, where they’ll play Poland, after beating Czech Republic in the semis. Robin Quaison scored deep into extra-time to hand the Swedes a vital win ahead of the World Cup later this year.

    RESULT: Sweden 1-0 Czech Republic
    Sweden XI: Olsen, 4. Danileson, 3. Lindelof, 18. Nilsson, 5. Olsson, 7. Claesson, 20. Olsson, 8. Ekdal, 10. Forsberg, 21. Kulusevski, 9. Isak
    Czech Republic XI: Vaclik, 2. Zima, 4. Brabec, 3. Holes, 15. Sadilek, 12. Masopust, 22. Soucek, 7. Barak, 14. Jankto, 9. Hlozek, 10 Kutcha

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    Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
    Goodbye!
    Thanks for joining us this evening on the night North Macedonia, Portugal, Sweden and Wales made it through to the play-off finals for the World Cup 2022.
    You can check out how Italy were shocked in their own back yard and miss out on another World Cup.
    Good night.
    Attention turns to the final
    Poland having got the bye to the final while Sweden had to play 120 minutes as well as the Polish being the home side will make them favourites for the match.
    Sweden though have real quality in attack and will have confidence and belief having won tonight and nearly qualifying automatically above Spain,
    It is difficult to separate the two sides.
    It will be an entertaining game on Tuesday 29th.
    Heartbreak for Czech Republic
    They simply didn’t create enough tonight and as a result they miss out on their fourth World Cup in a row.
    There was a feeling once Havel missed that huge opportunity in stoppage time of the second half it was their chance gone.
    Kutcha worked really hard up front but Pekhart was a bystander when he came on showing in the end they did miss Schick’s quality.
    They were defensively solid throughout but were gradually worn down and began to drop a little too deep.
    This gave Karlstrom time on the ball, who eventually found the strikers who combined for the goal.
    Credit: Getty
    Have some of Zlat!
    Zlatan Ibrahimovic will be back in contention of a starting place for the final having served his suspension.
    He is on the pitch celebrating with his teammates.
    But will the 40-year-old start versus Poland?
    Isak was great tonight providing the assist for the all important goal. There is no way he gets dropped from the starting XI.
    Quaison was the goal hero and offered a more natural option up front compared to Kulusevski who moved to the right hand side.
    It will be interesting to see what Andersson chooses to do with his team selection in Warsaw.
    Will we see the Ibrahmovic vs Lewandowski showdown?
    FT: Sweden 1-0 Czech Republic
    They have done it.
    Quaison’s goal is enough to send Sweden into the final.
    They keep their Qatar dreams alive but Czech Republic won’t be there, they played well but lacked the quality and clinical edge when needed.
    Sweden 1-0 Czech Republic
    120+1. One last chance.
    Olsen comes an awfully long way to catch the punt into the box. It’s unconvincing but he has the ball.
    He nearly dropped that.
    Sweden 1-0 Czech Republic
    120. The Czech keeper Vaclik takes a free kick on the half-way line.
    But it’s a poor ball and headed clear by Elanga.
    Danielson then eats up another aerial duel, this isn’t the way to break down Sweden.
    Two minutes added of stoppage time.
    Sweden 1-0 Czech Republic
    119. Czech Republic are trying to launch the ball forward but it keeps coming back.
    With Barak, Masopust and Jankto off they don’t seem to have the creativity needed.
    It looks like Sweden will face Poland for a place in the World Cup.
    Sweden 1-0 Czech Republic
    117. Sweden are using all their experience here. Lindelof has cramp and Svanberg buys a foul.
    They’re slowing the game down well.
    Czech Republic manager waves his players forward.
    Sweden 1-0 Czech Republic – Elanga on
    115. Karlstrom is next to be booked.
    Isak is taken off, he’s been great and defender Helander replaces him.
    There is also a debut for Man Utd star Elanga replacing Forsberg.
    Sweden 1-0 Czech Republic
    111. The Friends Arena is bouncing – mass celebrations.
    The goal comes from moving the ball quickly and smart movement.
    Sweden attackers have combined well throughout and they do create a clear chance and it’s taken.
    Hlozek is off Lingr is on
    Sweden 1-0 Czech Republic – Goal Quasion
    109. Finally we have a goal and it’s for Sweden.
    Karlstrom passes into Quaison from deep, he turns and finds Isak.
    Quaison continues his run and is found by Isak, he then converts brilliantly from close range with a low shot.
    Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic – Sweden sub
    106. Olsson goes off to be replaced by Karlstrom.
    He has worked tirelessly in midfield.
    Elsewhere, Italy have been beaten by North Macedonia in the shock of the night.
    Kick-off: Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    A quarter of an hour left, nothing separates them after 105 minutes.
    Can somebody make themselves a hero?
    HT: Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    The Czechs enjoy a period of pressure but don’t quite create anything.
    The ref signals the end of the first half of ET.
    15 minutes remain before penalties.
    Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    102. Zima gets forward from right-back and delivers a good cross.
    However, Pekhart is on his heels and can’t get there.
    The Czechs spring out again from their low block via Hlozek.
    He is then fouled by Olsson, the ref shows another yellow card.
    Credit: Getty
    Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    99. Forsberg and Isak combine down the left as Sweden counter the counter attack.
    The former Dortmund striker cuts in on his stronger foot but it is blocked well.
    No way through again.
    Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    98. Sweden are becoming the more dominant side here, they are having more possession.
    However, they are struggling to break down a tough Czech setup.
    They are compact in their shape and are hoping to spring out and counter.
    Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    95. Isak turns well and earns a corner.
    It eventually drops to Kulusevski who is tackled by Soucek and Sykora together.
    They don’t let the 21-year-old cut in on his preffered left foot, good play.
    Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    92. Zima collides with Isak.
    A cross is swung in and Quaison tries to head it back to the middle but it’s cleared away after a unconvincing reading off the ball.
    Sweden need to get Forsberg and Kulusevski on the ball as much possible.
    Kick-off: Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    91. Extra time is here.
    The game is restarted by Michael Oliver.
    It was an even 90 minutes, if it continues, penalties is a real possibility.
    FT: Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    We need another 30 minutes of action to separate these two.
    Havel is consoled by Soucek, that miss will haunt him if they lose this game.
    Credit: Getty
    Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    90+3. Wow – what a miss!
    Havel is free in the box, Soucek finds him with a cross and he slices wide on the volley.
    That was the moment to send Czech Republic through.
    Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    90+2. This 90 minutes wouldn’t be complete without another yellow.
    It’s Mateju this time who pulls the shirt of Kulusevski to stop the counter attack.
    Definite yellow.
    Sweden 0-0 Czech Republic
    90. Four minutes added.
    We will be going to extra time by the looks of it.
    Sadilek and Barak are taken off. Sykora and Krejci are on.
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    Italy 0 North Macedonia 1 LIVE REACTION: Italians FAIL to qualify for World Cup as minnows stun Euro champs – updates

    ITALY had a disastrous night as they failed to qualify for their second successive World Cup after losing 1-0 to North Macedonia. Aleksandr Trajkovski scored a 92-minute winner to stun the European champs.

    RESULT: Italy 0-1 N Macedonia
    Italy XI: Donnarumma, 16. Florenzi, 19. Mancini, 23. Bastoni, 13. Emerson, 19. Barella, 8. Jorginho, 6. Verratti, 11. Berardi, 17. Immobile, 10. Insigne
    North Macedonia XI: Dimitrievski, 13. Ristovski, 14. Velkoski, 6. Musliu, 8. Alioski, 11. Churlinov, 5. Ademi, 10. Bardhi, 16. Nikolov, 19. Ristovski, 9. Trajkovski

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    End of an empire
    The expectance of certain teams making the finals of major tournaments is a thing of the past now as tonight showed us.
    Nobody has a divine right to be there and it has to be earned.
    Italy lacked something tonight or maybe they don’t have the players to execute the manager’s plans.
    Either way, there will be no Italy at the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

    Goal to break Italy hearts
    The sound of silence here when that North Macedonia goal went in left fans in a state of shock here in Palermo.
    Italian fans dumbstruck, North Macedonia fans speechless.
    What a strike to win a playoff game!

    Taxi for Mancini
    The Italian FA tend not to be sentimental when it comes to failing to qualify for major tournaments.
    Robert Mancini could be looking for another job this summer.
    His players have let him and the fans down today with a lacklustre performance when it really counted.
    FT: Italy 0-1 North Macedonia
    The Italian players walk off the pitch to boos and jeers.
    They failed to create clean-cut chances and allowed North Macedonia to stay in the game.
    As is always the way, they are punished late on.

    Italy 0-1 North Macedonia
    90+5. Italy with their final chance of the game.
    The shot comes in and deflects millimetres wide of the post.
    Was that THE chance for Italy?
    Italy 0-1 North Macedonia
    90+3. The warnings have been there all game.
    If you do not take your chances you run the risk of being burned.
    Nothing more than a pot-shot by the North Macedonian winger but Donnarumma could not get anywhere near it
    Goal – Trajkovski (North Macedonia)
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    90. We will have five additional minutes here….
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    88. After a little break for a collision between the Macedonian keeper and an Italy attacker we are back underway.
    Whether either side has enough time to win this without needing extra time will remain to be seen.
    Chiellini comes on for Italy.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia – Pellegrini chance!
    86. Emerson does brilliantly down the left.
    He feeds it to Pellegrini who sidesteps his marker.
    Weirdly the player looks to square the ball rather than go for goal.
    Should have put that one away.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    84. A push forward by the visitors has the home fans in all sorts of panic.
    The ball is swung in from a wide position but Donnarumma anticipates the cross and gathers.
    Italy look to get forward quickly.

    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    82. Italy desperately looking for that goal that could take them through.
    Mancini looks nervous on the touchline.
    Italy win another corner.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    80. Tonali with some good play out on the right finding Berardi.
    He steps passed the challenge but it dragged down as he gets away from the player.
    Free kick to Italy.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    78. Italy are probing away still.
    Working the ball out wide and then looking for runners.
    Raspadori hits one on the half volley from distance just over the bar.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    75. We are into the last fifteen minutes of the game.
    Unless no one can find a goal.
    Then we will be having some extra-time.

    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    73. This game is very similar to Juventus against Villareal.
    The Italian side dominating but unable to find a goal.
    Italy will need to be wary of what happened to Juventus in that one.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    71. It is getting to a worrying time for the hosts now.
    Unable to break down this North Macedonian defence.
    Florenzi is played in and shoots but the shot is blocked for a corner.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    69. Italy trying absolutely anything now.
    The corner is played deep to the edge of the box where Berardi runs onto it.
    Striking the ball on the volley from 30-odd yards seems ambitious.
    The visitors block the shot.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia – Bastoni chance!
    67. The corner is whipped in and Italian has a completely free header.
    He should have done better considering there was no challenge from a North Macedonian player.
    The keeper gathers the ball with ease.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    65. Free kick to Italy deep inside their own half.
    Raspadori has come on for Insigne.
    Berardi wins a corner for Italy.

    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    63. Berardi again with a chance in front of goal.
    What does the Italian have to do to score?
    This time the challenge deflects the ball mere inches wide.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    61. North Macedonia seem happier to retain possession and pass the ball about in this second half.
    Italy break on the counter this time but Immobile has no support.
    Insigne tries a shot which deflects through to the keeper.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    59. The visitors seem to be growing in confidence.
    You do wonder whether Italy are going to be hit with a sucker-punch.
    If they fail to take their chances, they open themselves up to it.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia -Berardi chance!
    57. It is rare to see a game dominated by one side without creating anything of any real note.
    The ball is played in towards Berardi in the middle of the box, he drops the shoulder and the defender commits.
    He has a clean sight of goal and lets fly with a shot on his weaker right foot.
    The balls goes way over the bar, wasted opportunity.
    Italy 0-0 North Macedonia
    55. North Macedonia are trying to get more possession of the ball.
    Rather than ploughing forward, they play the ball around their back four.
    It is a good way to relieve some of the pressure Italy are putting them under.
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    Portugal 3 Turkey 1: Cristiano Ronaldo takes one step closer to World Cup as Jota nets bullet header in play-off win

    DIOGO JOTA helped send Portugal into the play-off final – by the skin of their teeth.The hosts looked like they had an iron grip on the game when the Liverpool striker slotted home his 42nd minute header after Otavio broke the deadlock. 
    Porto’s Otavio scored the opener as Portugal reached the World Cup play-off finalCredit: GETTY
    Diogo Jota scored a sensational header at the back postCredit: GETTY
    The Liverpool man stepped up as Cristiano Ronaldo had an unusual off-night in his country’s coloursCredit: GETTY
    Matheus Nunes killed the game off in added timeCredit: REUTERS

    But veteran Turkey striker Burak Yilmaz went from hero to villain by clawing one back then MISSING a crucial last-gasp penalty. 
    Cristiano Ronaldo had a hand in the first-two goals but was in a strop throughout the night for missing a string of golden chances. 
    And to make matters worse for the Manchester United icon, it was Matheus Nunes who spared his country’s blushes with a precious third goal in the last kick of the game. 
    Portugal were in the driving seat early on and Bruno Fernandes whipped a peach of a free-kick into the box but Jota skied the sitter from three-yards. 
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Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Read more in 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Portugal 3 Turkey 1 .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Ronaldo and Co reach World Cup play-off final with routine victory
    Otavio made up for the Liverpool man’s blunder with a sweetly struck opener 15 minutes in. 
    It all began with Ronaldo’s charging run down the right flank before he teed up Jota who linked up with Bernardo Silva. 
    The Manchester City star rattled the far post with a rasping shot before the ball fell to Otavio to sweep home the rebound for his first competitive goal for Portugal. 
    Turkey finally woke up and Berkan Kutlu fired a warning shot with a header into the side netting, fractions away from goal. 
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    The steady hands of Diogo Costa then did well to keep out a fierce, low drive from Orkun Kokcu. 
    The hosts hit back strongly and Manchester United midfielder Fernandes whipped in another inch-perfect free-kick but Ronaldo overshot his run and blazed his header wide. 
    A razor sharp move from Ronaldo and Otavia then led to Jota doubling the lead with a thunderbolt header on 42 minutes and his ninth international goal.
    But Turkey had a spring in their step after the restart and it was only a matter of time before they rained on Portugal’s parade. 
    It fell to Yilmaz to hand the visitors a lifeline with his 31st goal for his country on 65 minutes as he latched onto Cengiz Under’s cute through ball and rifled home.
    Tempers flared late on when Jose Fonte hacked Enes Unal down with an outstretched leg. 
    The penalty shout was initially turned down before referee Daniel Siebert who went to check the pitchside monitor and then pointed to the spot. 
    Yilmaz stepped up – but Fonte thanked his lucky stars when the normally ice-cool finisher blazed over the bar. 
    Portugal dominated play
    But in the final seconds Nunes put it beyond the visitor’s reach with a red hot finish following Rafael Leao’s through ball on 94 minutes.
    Portugal will face underdogs North Macedonia in the play-off final after Euro 2020 winners Italy were STUNNED in added time.
    Aleksandar Trajkovski fired into the bottom left corner to set up a date with Portugal on March 29. More

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    Wales 2 Austria 1: Watch Gareth Bale’s STUNNING dipping free kick as hero’s double fires Dragons one step from World Cup

    THE MIRACLE of Wales.That’s what the Spanish media called it when Gareth Bale was spotted training with his country less than 48 hours after missing the Classico with a ‘niggle’.

    Real Madrid star Gareth Bale gave Wales the lead with a stunning free-kickCredit: EPA
    Maybe they went too early.
    Because despite only playing 77 minutes of club football since November the Real Madrid man scored two stunners for his beloved Dragons.
    Who writes the former Tottenham man’s scripts?
    Even by his standards it was incredible stuff from the captain and talisman to put his nation on the brink of a first World Cup in 64 years.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Wales 2 Austria 1 .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Superb Bale brace inspires Dragons to World Cup play-off final spot
    They still have one more step to go – but Rob Page’s men will be in the draw when it is made in Doha next Friday.
    And with Bale in their side, who would bet against them sealing their place when they face Scotland or Ukraine in the summer?
    Once again he was their man for the big occasion on an electric night in the capital.
    And what an ovation he got when he was subbed deep into stoppage time with his work pretty much done – and how richly deserved it was.
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    Wales were unbeaten in their last three meetings with Austria – and had not lost to anyone in Cardiff in 16 matches.
    No wonder the Dragons fancied their chances – despite coming up against such experienced opponents.
    They almost got off to the dream start as Connor Roberts closed down David Alaba and the ball fell to Dan James whose shot was too close to Heinz Lindner.
    Yet they were almost caught out at the other end as a super through ball from Marcel Sabitzer split the home defence wide open.
    Christoph Baumgartner went clear but took his shot early and it beat Wayne Hennessey but bounced back off the crossbar.
    Gareth Bale scored his first free-kick goal for Wales since Euro 2016 against EnglandCredit: EPA
    What a let off for the home side – and they almost took full advantage as James stood up a cross from the left that just evaded the on-rushing Aaron Ramsey at the back post.
    It was 1958 last time Wales qualified for the World Cup finals – when they also did it via the play-offs.
    Yet there was no sign of the nerves from Page’s men.
    If anything it was the visitors who seemed rattled – including Alaba who must have thought he had seen it all during his time with Bayern Munich and Real.
    A cross by Liverpool’s Neco Williams found the head of Ramsey but he could not quite direct it on target.
    Gareth Bale is determined to lead Wales to the 2022 World Cup in QatarCredit: Getty
    Then midway through the first half, Baumgartner stuck out an arm to stop Harry Wilson bursting past him and was given a yellow card.
    More importantly, though, it gave Wales a free-kick 25 yards out – in a position which looked perfect for you-know-who.
    He puffed out his cheeks, took a four step run up and then floated a perfect ‘knuckle-ball’ free-kick over the wall and in off the underside of the bar.
    What a goal and what a moment.
    His 37th goal for his country – and his first from a free-kick since the one that beat England’s Joe Hart in the group stage of Euro 2016.
    Wales have one more big game to go through to seal World Cup qualificationCredit: AFP
    That’s four goals and three assists now in the current qualifying campaign – where would they be without him?
    Wales were almost caught out as Alaba’s free-kick was punched out by Hennessey straight onto Ben Davies – but luckily the rebound dropped wide.
    And back at the other end, the home side came so close to extending their lead as some great pressing from James saw Wilson flip through Ramsey.
    The on-loan Rangers man took a touch before firing a shot that was superbly tipped round the post by Lindner.
    What a boost a second goal would have been going into half-time – particularly as Page’s men made a sloppy start to the second half.

    Former Stoke man Marko Arnautovic saw a header comfortably saved by Hennessey..
    But more pressing saw James win his team a corner and then send a dangerous ball into the box from the left.
    Davies got there first but his old Spurs mate Bale did the rest, taking a touch before sending a fierce drive across Lindner and into the far corner.
    Just after the hour, the hat-trick was on as he raced away down the right but blazed his effort just inches over the bar.
    That would have wrapped it up but instead, less than a minute later, Austria got back into it as Sabitzer’s tame shot from outside the box would have been straight at Hennessey.

    Yet it took a horrible deflection off Davies and looped over the Burnley keeper – a really soft one for the visitors.
    Again Wales had the chance to seal it as a delightful ball from Ramsey put James in but Lindner got down well to save from the Leeds man.
    And he was slipped in again by Harry Wilson a couple of minutes later but this time he was denied by some last-ditch defending from Xavier Schlager.
    The Dragons seemed intent on doing it the hard way but they hung on to seal a famous win – and now they are within touching distance. More

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    Supercomputer predicts final World Cup qualifying play-offs as Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal or Italy to MISS tournament

    WALES and European champions Italy will fail to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar – a supercomputer has predicted. Rob Page’s Wales are looking to qualify for the highly anticipated tournament for the first time since 1958.
    wales have not played in a World Cup since 1958Credit: REUTERS
    Euro 2020 winners Italy are predicted to miss this year’s World Cup
    But they face a tough route to Qatar, having to face favourites Austria in the play-off semi-final.
    But should Wales upset the favourites from Path A, they will go on to face either Scotland or Ukraine in the final.
    However, Scotland and Ukraine’s match has been pushed back to June due to to Russian invasion.
    Like Wales, Euro 2020 winners Italy are predicted to sit out this winter’s spectacle whilst favourites Portugal – spearheaded by Cristiano Ronaldo – go through.
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    Qatar could be Manchester United forward Ronaldo’s last World Cup.
    The 37-year-old icon told beIN Sports: “I expect Qatar could be my final World Cup. I often go on holidays there, to Qatar as well as Dubai.
    “I am happy because for sure it will be last international tournament.”
    By the time the next major international tournament comes around in 2024, Ronaldo will be 39.
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    But they would have to get past Turkey in the semis and then either Italy or North Macedonia on March 29.
    The supercomputer also predicts that the 2021 Ballon d’Or runner-up Robert Lewandowski will be in Qatar.
    Poland are in the play-off Path B.
    They’re favourites to qualify, ahead of Sweden and the Czech Republic.
    Once the winners from Path B and C are determined, they’ll learn who their group stage opponents on April 1.
    The teams have been divided into four pots owing to their current Fifa ranking.
    Hosts Qatar will be in Pot 1 alongside the top seven seeds, which includes England. More