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    World Cup 2022 LIVE: Sterling will return to England squad TODAY, Spain SACK Luis Enrique, Cristiano Ronaldo updates

    ENGLAND boss Gareth Southgate has received a massive boost as Raheem Sterling will rejoin his Three Lions teammates TODAY.Sterling, 27, pulled out of the squad ahead of the 3-0 last-16 win over Senegal following a burglary at his home in Surrey.
    But reports suggest that he will return to Qatar today – on time for England’s huge quarter-final clash against France.
    Meanwhile, Spain have SACKED Luis Enrique following their shock World Cup last-16 exit to Morocco.
    And Portugal have been forced to deny claims that Cristiano Ronaldo threatened to leave the World Cup squad after Switzerland snub.
    World Cup 2022 sign up offer: Get £40 in FREE BETS when you stake £10 at Sky Bet
    Stay tuned with all the latest from the tournament…
    Ronaldo hoping for Portugal recall
    Cristiano Ronaldo faces a nervy wait to discover if he’s back in Portugal’s plans for their World Cup quarter-final against Morocco.
    Replacement Goncalo Guedes scored a hat-trick when he led the line in the 6-1 win over Switzerland.
    Here’s how the two strikers compare with a place in the semis at stake…

    Rashford and Saka’s spelling delight
    Marcus Rashford is the latest England star to take on the gauntlet that is Bukayo Saka’s “spelling school.”
    A host of other Three Lions stars including Jack Grealish, James Maddison and Declan Rice have all tried and failed to pass Saka’s tricky spelling tests.
    And Manchester United ace Rashford became the latest cornered England star.
    WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

    Possible England XI vs France
    England have a host of options on the table when they play France this weekend.
    Gareth Southgate is likely to stick with the 4-3-3 system that’s served him so well in Qatar.
    But he could yet opt for a back five to deal with the threat of Kylian Mbappe.
    WAYS ENGLAND COULD LINE UP

    Rice gives England huge boost
    Declan Rice has returned to England training just 48 hours before their huge World Cup quarter-final against France.
    The West Ham skipper, 23, did not train with the rest of Gareth Southgate’s squad on Wednesday due to illness.
    But teammate Kalvin Phillips confirmed Rice’s return today, saying: “I believe Dec is fit, he’s back in training and he’s fine.
    “If something goes wrong, then I’ll be there and I’ll do my best to be fit for 90 minutes.
    Inside England’s camp before France
    England face a daunting World Cup quarter-final clash against France on Saturday night.
    But ahead of their meeting with the reigning champions, the mood inside the Three Lions’ camp appears relaxed.
    From a WEREWOLF game to spelling bees and a surprise Robbie Williams gig, there’s been plenty going on behind the scenes.
    SEE INSIDE ENGLAND’S TRAINING CAMP
    QF preview – England vs France
    England have reached the World Cup quarter-final and they will play in-form France THIS SATURDAY – and it’s not to be missed!

    England vs France takes place on THIS SATURDAY – December 10.
    The match kicks off at 7pm UK time.
    The Al-Bayt Stadium plays host.

    MORE ENGLAND VS FRANCE INFO

    Bellingham’s vow for fan shirt
    Jude Bellingham has vowed to send a supporter a signed shirt after the individual gave away one he had previously to charity.
    Gary Williams had tweeted: “I know this sounds cheeky but does anybody know how I could get one of Judes signed shirts.
    “I actually had one a couple of years ago but gave it to my Marie Curie charity for a auction it would finish off my collection now. Can’t believe the stuff I’ve given away over the years.”
    Bellingham spotted his plea and responded: “Got you mate! Have a look at your messages. KRO.”
    QF preview – Morocco vs Portugal
    Portugal will have their hands full when they face high-flying Morocco in the quarter-finals of the World Cup THIS SATURDAY.

    Portugal’s clash with Morocco will take place on Saturday, December 10.
    The game will be held at the Al Thumama Stadium in Doha.
    Portugal vs Morocco will get underway from 3pm GMT.

    MORE MOROCCO VS PORTUGAL INFO

    Spain confirm Luis Enrique replacement
    Spain have announced Under-21 coach Luis de la Fuente as their new manager – just hours after Luis Enrique’s departure.
    The board of directors will rubber stamp his appointment in a meeting on Monday.
    De La Fuente’s first two matches in charge will come against Norway and Scotland in March as Spain bid to qualify for Euro 2024.
    He has been in the national set-up since 2013 and led both Spain’s U19s and U21s to Euros glory.
    QF preview – Holland vs Argentina
    Holland and Argentina are set to go at it for a World Cup semi-final spot in Qatar – and fans can expect fireworks tomorrow…

    Holland’s mouth-watering fixture against Argentina will take place on Friday, December 9.
    The World Cup quarter-final clash is scheduled to get underway at 7pm UK time.
    Lusali Stadium is the allocated arena for this eye-catching contest and it can host a staggering 88, 966 supporters.
    Argentine sent Holland crashing out of the semi-final stage on penalties in 2014.

    MORE HOLLAND VS ARGENTINA INFO

    King Louis thrilling pal Veltman
    Brighton’s Joel Veltman is delighted to see the man who gave him his Netherlands debut thriving once again.
    Speaking about Louis van Gaal, Veltman told SunSport: “That [his cancer] is terrible, we are lucky that he has been through it and so far so good.
    “That he can still do stuff like this is amazing. In Holland we say people will go through fire for him.
    “He can give you a hug or kill you on the pitch, constantly telling you that you can do better.”
    QF preview – Croatia vs Brazil
    Brazil will continue their pursuit of a record-extending sixth World Cup when they take on Croatia in the quarter-finals on Friday…

    Croatia’s clash with Brazil in the World Cup quarter-final will take place on Friday, December 9.
    The game will get underway from 3pm UK time.
    Croatia vs Brazil will be held at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan.

    MORE CROATIA VS BRAZIL INFO

    Breaking – Enrique leaves Spain post
    Luis Enrique is no longer Spain boss after their shock World Cup exit to Morocco.
    Pedri and Co were stunned by their opponents in a penalty shootout defeat this week.
    It means Spain have failed to make it past the last-16 stage since winning the World Cup in 2010.
    And the hunt is on for a new boss to lead Spain’s Euro 2024 charge after Enrique quit his post today.
    Jack’s hair gets French treatment
    Jack Grealish is preparing for England’s clash against France in a big way.
    That’s by getting a brand new haircut for the quarter-final battle.
    The Man City star employed the help of A-Star Barbers for a fresh trim.
    Will it be enough to guide England to the World Cup semis?
    Topless Jack Grealish shows off new haircut ahead of England’s World Cup quarter-final against France
    Commentator bids farewell to Cup
    Fans have been left in shock after much-loved ITV commentator Clive Tyldesley announced he was on his way home from the World Cup.
    Tyldesley was part of the ITV team throughout the group stages and last-16 at the World Cup in Qatar.
    However, after providing the commentary during Portugal’s 6-1 thrashing of Switzerland, he took to Twitter to reveal he was heading back to England.
    Posting a snap of a glass of red wine alongside his passport and plane ticket, he wrote: “My 8th World Cup in the job of my dreams and the first time I’m going to be home before England! Thank you for your company x.”
    World Cup winners & losers
    Prem clubs are beginning to emerge from their enforced winter hibernation.
    Qatar 2022 brought an unprecedented pre-conceived six week shutdown half-way through the campaign.
    But with bosses now starting to gear up through a series of friendlies for the Boxing Day return to Prem arms, the big question is how the World Cup will impact the domestic agenda.
    SunSport looks at the 20 Prem teams to work out the likely winners and losers from a situation none of them will want to see repeated…
    SEE OUR WINNERS & LOSERS

    Robbie Williams lifts England spirits
    Robbie Williams has been helping England to prepare for their crunch clash against France by performing a secret gig in the squad’s camp.
    As revealed by The Telegraph, Williams performed for the team last night at their Souq Al Wakra headquarters.
    Williams, 48, is in Qatar to perform at Doha Golf Club despite criticism of the Gulf State’s stance on gay rights and migrant workers who built the stadiums for the World Cup.
    However, Williams has defended his decision to play in Qatar.

    Ronaldo ‘threatened to quit Portugal’
    Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly threatened to leave Portugal’s World Cup squad.
    That’s after being dropped for the 6-1 thrashing of Switzerland.
    Record claims the ex-Man Utd man made a threat to quit camp after finding he was on the bench.
    But the Portuguese FA have categorically denied the reports.
    ITV pundits demonstrate footy skills
    Pundits including Roy Keane blew off some steam as they fooled around with a football in Qatar.
    The Irishman was joined by ITV pal Ian Wright for a little kickabout.
    And the duo demonstrated some wonderful first touches on the ball.
    But fellow pundit Lee Dixon was having none of it as he hilariously booted the ball away.
    Watch ITV pundits including Roy Keane and Ian Wright show off first touch before no-nonsense Lee Dixon boots ball away
    Breaking – Sterling returning to England
    Raheem Sterling will return to England’s World Cup base in Qatar.
    The Chelsea forward is expected to rejoin the squad tomorrow ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final against France.
    Sterling flew back to England after a burglary at his home in Surrey.
    But he will now link back up with Gareth Southgate’s squad for this weekend’s crunch clash.

    Double injury blow for Portugal
    Defenders Danilo Pereira and Nuno Mendes have been forced to leave Portugal’s World Cup camp.
    The pair will play no part in the quarter-final against Morocco or beyond after suffering injuries in Qatar.
    Danilo has a rib problem, while Mendes has hurt his thigh.
    And the duo are returning to Paris Saint-Germain so they can receive specialist treatment from club doctors.
    Messi set for messy reunion
    Lionel Messi is set to meet the official who booked him for his Diego Maradona tribute after the legend’s death in 2020.
    Argentina vs Holland will be whistled by LaLiga referee Mateu Lahoz.
    But Messi does not have fond memories of the Spaniard.
    SEE MESSI’S ‘ILLEGAL’ MARADONA TRIBUTE
    Kounde blasted for gold chain
    Didier Deschamps launched a furious rant at Jules Kounde for wearing a gold chain against Poland, says L’Equipe.
    The item was spotted by officials during France’s last-16 win, and Deschamps blasted Kounde in the dressing room over it.
    He said after the game: “He (Kounde) has no right. I don’t know what he has on his chain, I know that Jules has a bit of a superstition, he has it in training.
    “I don’t know the meaning. I even told him – ‘You’re lucky you’re not in front of me, or else’.”
    England fans face ticket blitz
    Tickets for England’s World Cup quarter-final with France are up for sale for a whopping £5,000 – over 28 TIMES the original value.
    A pair of official category 2 tickets normally costs £175 to buy.
    However, with fans desperate to get in on the action, some have sniffed out an opportunity to up their money.
    This has led to a number of tickets appearing on re-sale sites ahead of the game – with some staggering inflation to boot.

    Carragher’s best World Cup XI
    Jamie Carragher has named his best World Cup XI of all time with just one player allowed per country.
    And he made the controversial call to leave both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi out of the team.
    Instead of CR7, Eusebio was chosen to play up top instead due to his incredible World Cup record.
    Eusebio scored all nine of his World Cup goals as he led his country to the semi-finals in 1966, including four in the stunning comeback win over North Korea – when Portugal won 5-3 from 3-0 down inside 25 minutes.

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    Spain announce U21s boss Luis de la Fuente as manager of first-team just moments after Luis Enrique exit

    SPAIN have announced under-21 coach Luis de la Fuente as their new manager just hours after Luis Enrique’s departure.The 2010 World Cup winners crashed out in Qatar after losing to Morocco on penalties, with Enrique sacked on Thursday.
    Luis de la Fuente has been announced as Spain’s new head coachCredit: Getty
    Luis Enrique quit as Spain boss following their World Cup exitCredit: Getty
    And the Spanish FA wasted no time in replacing him, announcing De la Fuente as his successor the very same day.
    The board of directors will rubber stamp his appointment in a meeting on Monday.
    His first two matches in charge will come against Norway and Scotland in March as Spain bid to qualify for the European Championships in Germany in 2024.
    A statement read: “The RFEF [Royal Spanish Football Federation] has chosen Luis de la Fuente as the new absolute national coach.
    READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP
    “The sports director, José Francisco Molina, has forwarded a report to the president, Luis Rubiales, in which he recommends the choice of the coach from La Rioja, until now the U-21 coach, to lead the new stage that begins after the World Cup in Qatar.”
    De la Fuente enjoyed a playing career at Athletic Bilbao, Sevilla and Alaves.
    He began his managerial journey in 1999 and joined the Spanish national team set-up in 2013, becoming the U19s head coach.
    Since then he has gone on to take charge of the U21s and U23s, but has now been handed the big job with the senior side – after claiming the European Championships with the U19s and U21s.
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    Meanwhile, the Spanish FA released another statement on Thursday confirming Enrique’s exit.
    Addressing his departure, the statement read: “The sports management of the RFEF (Spanish FA) has transferred to the president a report in which it is determined that a new project should start for the Spanish Soccer Team.
    “The aim is continuing with the growth achieved in recent years thanks to the work carried out by Luis Enrique and their collaborators. 
    “Both the president, Luis Rubiales, and the sports director, Jose Francisco Molina, have transmitted the decision to the coach.
    “The Asturian coach managed to give a new impetus to the national team since his arrival, in 2018, through a profound renovation that has consolidated a generational change in the team and in Spanish football.”
    Enrique oversaw Spain’s quarter-final exit at the Euros last summer, but has now seen a regression as they failed to make the last-eight at the World Cup. More

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    Watch David Beckham give Trent Arnold-Arnold advice on how to cross ball as he visits England’s World Cup squad

    TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD has been given special advice from David Beckham on how to help keep his crossing and free-kicks consistent. Former England captain Becks visited the Three Lions camp ahead of the crunch quarter-final clash against reigning champions France.
    Trent Alexander-Arnold and David Beckham have a chatCredit: @trentarnold66
    Beckham gave Alexander-Arnold some advice on how to keep his crossing and free-kicks consistentCredit: @trentarnold66
    Beckham’s passing and set-piece strengths are echoed by the Liverpool defenderCredit: @trentarnold66
    And he was on hand to give some special tips to Liverpool’s Alexander-Arnold.
    The 24-year-old has been widely recognised as one of the best crossers and dead-ball specialists in the Premier League in recent years – much like Beckham in his day.
    But that hasn’t stopped him from seeking some extra advice on how to polish his technique.
    Sharing a chat the pair had to his Instagram, Beckham told Alexander-Arnold: “When I was at (Manchester) United, (Sir Alex) Ferguson used to (tell me) the moment he saw me off a little bit with either my run up or the smoothness of kicking it he’d pull me back in.
    READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP

    “He’d know exactly what I was doing wrong and so I just kept doing the same thing, over and over again. Never changed it.”
    The Liverpool man then asked whether it was the same for both sides and whether the Inter Miami owner had a preferred side when taking.
    Beckham answered by saying: “Yep (same both sides).
    “(Preferred side) Not really. I mean, I scored one against Jamo (David James) at Anfield where I just whipped it over the wall and it went the other side.
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    “To be fair I like both sides. Continuous. It’s important (routines and repetition), so important.
    “You’re obviously doing it, so yeah. Keep doing whatever you’re doing because you can cross a ball.”
    Despite his attacking brilliance, his defensive fragility means Alexander-Arnold has played just once during the World Cup so far.
    He came off the bench to play 33 minutes during the second half as England sent Wales home.
    While the England camp have enjoyed visits from the likes of Beckham, they have also been treated to a secret gig from former Take That star Robbie Williams.
    Alexander-Arnold has only played 33 minutes at the Qatar World CupCredit: Getty
    Beckham was a free-kick specialist in his dayCredit: AFP – Getty More

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    Luis Enrique SACKED as Spain manager after shock World Cup last-16 exit to Morocco with new boss announced moments later

    SPAIN coach Luis Enrique has been sacked after his country’s World Cup flop.The former Barcelona boss had see-sawed on his position after hinting he planned to quit ahead of the penalty-shoot-out defeat by Morocco and then suggesting he wanted to stay instead.
    Luis Enrique has managed his final game as Spain bossCredit: Getty
    But just two days after Luis Enrique and his squad landed back in Madrid following their frustrations in the desert, the coach was handed his marching orders by Spanish FA chiefs.
    In a statement issued by Madrid bosses, they said: “The sports management of the RFEF (Spanish FA) has transferred to the president a report in which it is determined that a new project should start for the Spanish Soccer Team.
    “The aim is continuing with the growth achieved in recent years thanks to the work carried out by Luis Enrique and their collaborators. 
    “Both the president, Luis Rubiales, and the sports director, Jose Francisco Molina, have transmitted the decision to the coach.

    “The Asturian coach managed to give a new impetus to the national team since his arrival, in 2018, through a profound renovation that has consolidated a generational change in the team and in Spanish football.”
    That generational change – with the retirements of the remaining members of the squad that dominated European and world football from 2008 to 2012 – was not enough to save Enrique.
    Spain have now gone out of their last three tournaments on penalties, losing to Russia in 2018 and Italy in the Euro 2020 semi-finals with criticism that Enrique’s teams controlled possession but lacked a cutting edge.
    His successor has been named as current under-21 coach Luis de la Fuente, who has been in charge of development and youth teams since 2013 and who won both the European under-19 and under-21 titles in that period.
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    The other major contender is believed to be ex-Athletic Bilbao boss Marcelino Garcia Toral but that is thought to be unlikely as his playing style is a marked departure from Luis Enrique’s brand of possession football.
    Enrique first took charge of his country in 2018, after Fernando Hierro had managed La Roja at the World Cup following Julen Lopetegui’s dramatic sacking.
    He stepped down for four months the following year, after the tragic death of his nine-year-old daughter Xana.
    Upon his return he guided Spain to Euro 2020, where they were unlucky to lose to Italy on penalties in the semi-finals.
    During his reign he also took his country to the 2021 Uefa Nations League final, losing 2-1 to France.
    Enrique managed 45 games in charge of his country, winning 25, drawing 11 and losing nine.
    Luis de la Fuente has been appointed Enrique’s successorCredit: Getty
    Enrique departs after an underwhelming World CupCredit: Getty More

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    Mario Gotze’s model wife helps him get over World Cup heartbreak as she strips down to tiny bikini on the beach

    MARIO GOTZE’s model wife is helping him get over Germany’s World Cup heartbreak as she took to the beach in a tiny bikini.The World Cup 2014 final goalscorer married Ann-Kathrin, 33, in 2018 having been together six years.
    Ann-Kathrin, hubby Gotze and baby Rome are in Dubai on holidayCredit: Instagram / annkathrin
    The Gotzes flew to Dubai after Germany’s World Cup group stage exitCredit: Instagram / annkathrin
    Gotze played two games in QatarCredit: Instagram / annkathrin
    Ann-Kathrin was by Gotze’s side from his Dortmund daysCredit: Instagram / annkathrin
    Ann-Kathrin was by Gotze’s side from his Borussia Dortmund days and was also a pillar during his struggle with myopathy.
    Gotze’s battle with the disease of the muscle, in which the muscle fibers do not function properly, and also causes weakness and rapid fatigue, threatened his career at the top level.
    But his resurgence in Holland at PSV and then a return to Germany to play for Eintracht Frankfurt saw Gotze be recalled to the national team set-up.
    His cameo in the 2-1 World Cup group stage loss to Japan ended his five-year absence from the Germany national team.
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    His last appearance came in 2017 in a 2-2 draw with France.
    A draw with Spain and 4-2 win over Costa Rica wasn’t enough for Germany to book a knockout spot, sending the four-time winners home in the group stages for the second World Cup finals in a row.
    But to help Gotze get over his World Cup heartbreak, his model wife Ann-Kathrin took to the beaches in Dubai in a tiny bikini.
    The mother to Rome, 2, slipped into a black and white Chanel set and posed for a mirror selfie.
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    Gotze’s World Cup 2022 stats
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    Followers flooded to the comments section to shower Ann-Kathrin with compliments.
    One said: “Beautiful.”
    Another replied: “Is this hot mama island? Wow!”
    Wife Ann-Kathrin, 33, is a modelCredit: Instagram / annkathrin
    Gotze married Ann-Kathrin in 2018Credit: Instagram / annkathrin
    The couple have been together since 2012Credit: Instagram / annkathrin More

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    Eden Hazard watches NBA clash between Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks after retiring from Belgium team

    EDEN HAZARD was pictured attending an NBA game in New York just days after he called an end to his international career. The Real Madrid man attended the clash between Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks at the famous Madison Square Garden.
    Eden Hazard was present at the game in New York after jetting away from Qatar following Belgium’s early exit from the World Cup
    Hazard retired from international football after Belgium crashed out of the World Cup after flopping in a group containing Croatia, Morocco and Canada.
    His career with the Red Devils spanned a 14 year period in which he often impressed, earning himself the national captaincy, but he was unable to shine again in Qatar.
    The former Chelsea man took to Instagram to confirm his retirement, he wrote: “A page turns today… Thank you for your love.
    “Thank you for your unparalleled support. Thank you for all this happiness shared since 2008.
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    “I have decided to put an end to my international career. The succession is ready.
    “I will miss you…”
    Hazard captained Belgium in their first two games at the Qatar World Cup 2022
    Hazard made 126 appearances for Belgium scoring 33 goals and racking up an impressive 36 assists after making his debut at just 17-years-old.
    Now 31, he has played in two European Championships and three World Cups for his nation, reaching the semi-final of the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
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    The Belgians failed to repeat their impressive display at this year’s tournament though finishing below both Morocco and Croatia in their group.
    The ageing squad hasn’t been able to live up to its ‘Golden Generation’ title and boss Roberto Martinez has stepped down as a result.
    The former Everton manager quit after his side’s embarrassment in Qatar which was riddled with sensational reports of unrest within the camp. More

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    Eder Militao’s stunning ex-girlfriend Karoline Lima shows off bare bum as she moves on from Brazil World Cup star

    EDER MILITAO’S stunning ex-girlfriend showed off what the Brazilian was missing by donning a revealing outfit. Karoline Lima announced her split from the Brazil and Real Madrid star in the summer just days before she gave birth to their child, Cecilia.
    Karoline Lima showed off her bum in a daring dressCredit: https://twitter.com/tuitagabii_/status/1599980867157299200?s=20&t=YmK0bC8HCKFvtHWSMe2vzg
    The 26-year-old split from boyfriend Eder Militao earlier this yearCredit: https://www.instagram.com/karolinel/?hl=en
    She has been pictured in Qatar supporting BrazilCredit: https://www.instagram.com/karolinel/?hl=en
    Karoline has 3.9million followers on her Instagram pageCredit: https://www.instagram.com/karolinel/?hl=en
    Karoline and Militao started dating in 2021Credit: Instagram / @karolinel
    However, it seems she has not wasted any time moving on from the 24-year-old.
    Karoline shared a raunchy pic to her Instagram story which left little to the imagination.
    But along with the outfit came some snaps of her kissing THREE different men while on a night out.
    According to Marca, Karoline was at an event called Farofa da Gkay, which celebrates the birthday of influencer and comedian Gessica Kayane.
    READ MORE ON BRAZIL

    And it was here she was seen kissing three men.
    Karoline, 26, has 3.9million followers on her Instagram page.
    She and Militao announced they were dating in 2021, but in love – and football – a year can be a long time.
    Before that, the Brazilian model was said to be romantically linked with Brazil ace Neymar.
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    Regardless of her past flings, Karoline has travelled over to Qatar to support the Samba Boys.
    Although this was part of a paid partnership with a bookmaker.
    Following their 4-1 demolition of South Korea, Tite’s squad now face beaten 2018 finalists Croatia for a spot in the semi-final of the World Cup.
    Luka Modric and Co may not look their best at this tournament but their know-how and grit was a big part of why they managed to progress against Japan on penalties.
    They will be no pushovers, but Brazil are the favourites and after Neymar’s return they look to have sharpened their fangs even more.
    Prior to dating Militao she was linked with NeymarCredit: https://www.instagram.com/karolinel/?hl=en
    Karoline is a Brazilian modelCredit: https://www.instagram.com/karolinel/?hl=en More

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    England vs France record: How Three Lions compare against Les Bleus in tournament football ahead of World Cup clash

    ENGLAND will meet France for the sixth time in tournament football when the two teams clash in the World Cup quarter-final on Saturday.While the Three Lions have a 100 per cent World Cup record, the record overall is just in England’s favour, with two wins to one and a couple of games drawn.
    England beat France in the group stage in 1966 thanks to Roger Hunt’s doubleCredit: Alamy
    Jack Charlton battles for the ball in England’s 2-0 winCredit: Alamy
    The nation is getting excited ahead of Saturday, with a real belief growing that Gareth Southgate’s men can dethrone Kylian Mbappe and Co in Qatar.
    SunSport looks at the five previous games:
    1966 World Cup Wembley – England 2 France 0
    A goal in each half from Roger Hunt ensured Alf Ramsey’s side topped their opening group and maintained Wembley advantage for the knock-out phase.
    Hunt nudged in from close range after Jack Charlton headed a Jimmy Greaves cross against the post before the Liverpool man’s header was helped into the net by French keeper Marcel Aubour.
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    1982 World Cup Bilbao – England 3 France 1
    England’s first World Cup Finals match in 12 years had a lightning start as Bryan Robson stole into the six yard box to hook home after just 27 seconds.
    France equalised through Gerard Soler but Robson rose majestically to meet a Trevor Francis cross and put England back in the lead before Paul Mariner volleyed in when the ball deflected to him in front of goal.
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    Bryan Robson scores against France in 1982Credit: Getty
    1992 European Championship Malmo – England 0 France 0
    A pretty dour affair in Sweden which left both sides needing something that proved beyond them in their final match.
    Stuart Pearce was at the centre of both the good and bad, staying on his feet despite a butt from Basile Boli that opened up a cut on his right cheek and then thwacking a free-kick against the bar with England’s best moment of a forgettable encounter
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    David Platt has his shorts pulled by Luis FernandezCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    2004 European Championships Lisbon – England 1 France 2
    Ask any England player or fan how they lost this one and they will still struggle to find an answer.
    Sven Goran Eriksson’s team were outstanding for 90 minutes.
    Shame about the “plus four”.
    Frank Lampard’s header deserved to be the winner after Wayne Rooney tortured the holders’ back line.
    But all that hard work was destroyed by an injury-time Zinedine Zidane double, a free-kick after Emile Heskey’s foul outside the box and then a penalty after Steven Gerrard’s back pass straight to Thierry Henry sold David James short.
    England were left heartbroken by Zidane’s two late goals, including a stunning free-kickCredit: AFP
    Zinedine Zidane put England to the sword in 2004Credit: AFP
    2012 European Championships Donetsk – England 1 France 1
    Roy Hodgson had been parachuted in just weeks before following Fabio Capello’s resignation and England expectations were low.
    But Hodgson’s military 4-4-2 approach doused the French and earned a deserved draw.
    Joleon Lescott got on the end of a Gerrard free-kick to head England in front but Samir Nasri snaked a low drive in to level before the break.
    The second half was pretty tame, in truth.
    England and France shared the spoils last time out at a tournamentCredit: Getty Images – Getty More