Cycling sprinters Stephanie Morton and Pat Constable have won selection for the team sprint events at the Rio Olympics
Photo Source: AP
Showing posts with label soccer news. Show all posts
Showing posts with label soccer news. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 5, 2016
Morton, Constable in Rio cycling team
Cycling sprinters Stephanie Morton and Pat Constable have won selection for the team sprint events at the Rio Olympics
Photo Source: AP
Mercedes caught between rocking their drivers and a hard crash
A long time ago, a colleague and I stood atop a grassy knoll, at the final corner of the Suzuka Circuit in Japan.
"It's a long way to have come, if they collide," we said. Two minutes later, the cloud of dust there confirmed that deadly rivals Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost had indeed done just that to conclude their 1990 Formula One Japanese Grand Prix in the gravel.
The year before, such had been their simmering rivalry as team-mates at McLaren, that Dodge City had not been big enough for the both of them. Prost had gone to Ferrari, but still their bitter enmity continued, as Senna deliberately took him out and thus sealed his own second world title.
So if you ask whether I saw the clash coming between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg in Spielberg on Sunday afternoon, the answer is yes, of course.
A devotee of Jim Clark, I have never cared for rough tactics, but this isn't tiddlywinks and these days, the financial stakes are high.
Hamilton and Rosberg have far and away the best car... Mercedes are to be praised for having the courage to let them fight, for to do it any other way would be utter disaster for Formula One.
Hamilton and Rosberg have far and away the best car in F1. The Englishman wants a third successive world title, to make his tally four; the German wants to emulate his father Keke and take his first. They are so evenly matched that contact is always going to be likely.
It happened at Spa in 2014, and again in Spain this year. When you have two hugely motivated and competitive individuals, it's hard to rein in their passion.
Mercedes are to be praised for having the courage to let them fight, for to do it any other way would be utter disaster for Formula One.
Hamilton was booed on the rostrum in Austria - unfairly if you agree with the stewards' decision to doubly penalise Rosberg.
We saw something similar here back in 2002, but the circumstances underlying such behaviour then were far worse. Ferrari's Rubens Barrichello had Michael Schumacher beaten all weekend and deserved to win. After all, at the same race the previous year, he had been cheated of rightful success by orders imposed by team boss Jean Todt - today the president of the International Automobile Federation - that Schumi should be allowed to win.
Now, to the intense dislike of everyone else, Todt again insisted on the Brazilian handing undeserved victory to his so-called team leader.
When Schumacher - who was believed to have had such things enshrined in his contracts - put on a display of embarrassment and tried to insist that Barrichello take the top spot on the rostrum, and then took the first-place trophy from the Austrian Chancellor and handed it to his team-mate, the crowd saw through it and jeered.
That isn't racing, and it isn't sport, though team orders can highlight nobility, such as that shown by the faster Gilles Villeneuve to Ferrari partner Jody Scheckter at Monza in 1979.
Ferrari had decreed that whoever won at Monaco would be their favoured championship challenger for the rest of the year. Scheckter won there, so Villeneuve was duty-bound to ride shotgun in Italy, even though passing Scheckter would have prolonged his own title aspirations. But one of the fastest men ever seen in F1 was too honourable to resort to such underhand tactics. Scheckter became champion.
In 1982, Villeneuve was allegedly cheated of victory in San Marino by team-mate Didier Pironi, and that is widely believed to have played a key role in the French Canadian's death at the next race.
Team orders suck, and they cheat the public. What satisfaction can there possibly be in winning, when the other guy has a hand tied behind his back?
What should Mercedes do?
In desperation, boss Toto Wolff admitted on Sunday that the time might finally have come to consider imposing orders on his errant racers - "freeze the order at a certain stage in the race". This is for the pragmatic reason that continual collisions are not the reason why Mercedes invest so much in their racing programme. Going home empty-handed in Barcelona really hurt.
He said: "It's unpopular, it makes me puke, because I like to see them race, but if racing is not possible without contact, then that's the consequence."
I really hope it never comes to that.
CREDIT TO:http://www.straitstimes.com/sport/formula-one/mercedes-caught-between-rocking-their-drivers-and-a-hard-crashMonday, July 4, 2016
Wales at Euro 2016 RECAP: Breaking news as Gareth Bale faces the media ahead of historic semi-final
The Wales star faces a showdown with his Real Madrid team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo on Wednesday
After the elation of Friday night, Chris Coleman's men will now be firmly focused on the impending historic Euro 2016 semi-final.
Amid heightened media interest at Wales' Dinard training base, Gareth Bale will hold a press conference this afternoon and is likely to face questions about facing a certain Cristiano Ronaldo on Wednesday night.
There will also be plenty of build up to the Portugal clash and we'll be bringing everything to you LIVE.
Follow our updates below...
Key Events So Far
Principality Stadium fanzone for the big one
Ledley could be forced to cancel his wedding
Gareth Bale press conference highlights
Bale: Pepe would be a big loss
Greatest moment of your career?
Matthew Southcombe
How the media are building up the semi-final
Clearly, Wales are big news at the moment.
And the national media have been building up Wednesday’s semi-final against Portugal.
Matthew Southcombe
Football takes centre stage
An interesting comment piece from our resident rugby writer about how football is taking over Wales...
Matthew Southcombe
Ledley could be forced to cancel his wedding
You thought Chris Gunter’s predicament was bad.
Wales’ run deep into the knockout stages has caused chaos again.
This time, Joe Ledley is the man who could have to rearrange things and this is no small occasion.
The midfielder might have to totally reschedule his wedding!
Go here for the full story...
Matthew Southcombe
Bale was all smiles at the presser today
Gareth Bale after a press conference
Gareth Bale was all smiles ahead of the semi-final
Matthew Southcombe
Options
You can dwell on the disappointment of Aaron Ramsey and Ben Davies being suspended for the semi-final as much as you like, but it won’t change the fact that it’s a reality.
Time to focus on the alternatives, we think.
This is how Chris Coleman could manage the dilemma...
Matthew Southcombe
Gareth Bale press conference highlights
Here’s the pick of what Gareth Bale had to say...
He insisted this game was not about two player, but about two nations.
Praised Ronaldo as a ‘fantastic player’.
Bale said playing at the Euros is the ‘most honoured I’ve been’.
He said Pepe would be a big loss to Portugal.
Bale revealed that they are playing for the nation, the badge and for Ramsey and Davies.
Chris Wathan
Bale: The milkshakes are nice here...
“The milkshakes are nice.
“The people of the town have been brilliant, been happy to give pictures and autographs.
“It’s been great to stay here and I would like to thank hospitality they’ve given us.”
Chris Wathan
Do Portugal play boring football?
“Not at all, they’ve got a good defence and scored a few.
“They’ve been enjoyable to watch.
“I’m sure they would have wanted to win a few more games but they’re in the semis and you can’t ask for much more.”
Gareth Bale
Chris Wathan
Do you think Ronaldo is fit? It's been a long season...
“Yeah, don’t see a reason why not. For everybody it’s a long season, some guys played 66 games.
“As soon as you’re out on the pitch, all injuries and worries go away.”
Gareth Bale
Chris Wathan
Bale: Ramsey and Davies will be hurt, but they aren't showing it
“It’s horrible.
“The rules are difficult to take, sometimes you wish at this stage of tournament yellow cards would be wiped.
“You feel for them and they’ll be hurt, but they’re not showing it and they’ve given us more motivation to win so they can play again.
“We’re playing for the nation and the badge but also for them.”
Chris Wathan
Bale: Pepe would be a big loss
“Firstly he’s a fantastic player, he’s incredible for Real Madrid, professional and a great man who’s been very good to me.
“He’ll be a big loss if he’s not fit but if he does play he’ll make it difficult.”
Chris Wathan
Bale: We won't freeze
“They won’t dwell on the past, it’s a brand new game.
“It doesn’t make a difference. They are different situations with different pressures.
“We’ll enjoy it, we won’t freeze, hopefully play the best we can.”
Chris Wathan
Greatest moment of your career?
“It’s difficult to say, but it’s right up there, it’s the most honoured I’ve been, playing for your country is the biggest honour and to be in the biggest game is amazing.
“But we don’t want it to end, it’s our time, we want to continue fighting and hopefully make history.”
Gareth Bale
Chris Wathan
Is Ronaldo tense?
“I’m not too sure, I can’t comment on what he’s feeling.
“For me I feel comfortable.
“We get on well, we enjoy playing with each other, I’m not sure what he does off the pitch, that’s his private life.”
Gareth Bale
Chris Wathan
Bale: There are no stars, we're together
“The team is a star, there are no stars, we’re together, we work as one, we run for each other, tackle for each other.
“We get along like brothers, we joke around and have a laugh as you’ve seen on social media.
“We have no fear, we go into each game as best as we can.”
Chris Wathan
Bale: Ronaldo is a fantastic player
“He’s a fantastic player, everybody knows what he can do, but we speak about we can do as a team.
“Teams we’ve played had very good individuals, but it’s about how we perform as a team and by doing that we can shut out a lot of threats.”
Chris Wathan
Bale: We've always believed
“We all believed from the start.
“We didn’t come to make up the numbers, we’re here to do a job.
“We want to win the tournament, we’re a step closer but we can’t think past this game.
“Hopefully we can get the job done and look forward to the final.”
Chris Wathan
Bale: It's not about two players
“It’s not about two players, everybody knows that, it’s about two nations, 11 men v 11 men.
“It will be a very different game, they’re in the semi for a reason but we’ll enjoy the occasion as we have done.”
Chris Wathan
Gareth Bale press conference begins...
“It just an extra day recovery.
You get stiff after games so it was just a bit more recovery, nothing to be worried and we continue as normal.”
Gareth Bale
Chris Wathan
Watch Gareth Bale's press conference...
Watch things as they unfold below
Chris Wathan
Huge interest in Gareth Bale today
Our man Chris Wathan is there for us...
“We’re just a few minutes away from Gareth Bale arriving at the media centre for the sixth time during this tournament.
“Interestingly, the previous occasions have seen his appearance kept low-key with not much notice of confirmation, but the FAW made it known yesterday it would be the world’s most expensive player in the hot seat today.
“As a result we’ve seen huge numbers arrive in Dinard from every conceivable country... Russia, Spain, Italy, Norway, Germany, England and, of course, Portugal are among those in the centre’s busiest day.
“Security has been stepped up as a result.”
Matthew Southcombe
Wales could ruin Clattenburg's Euros
Mark Clattenburg is England’s sole remaining representative at Euro 2016 and he’s been hotly tipped to referee the final.
It would cap a wonderful year for the English official after he took charge of the FA Cup final and the Champions League final.
However, Wales could toss a real spanner in the works if they get past Portugal on Wednesday night.
It would mean Clattenburg would be unable to officiate because of UEFA’s regulation that bar British referees from taking charge of matches involving the home nations.
Matthew Southcombe
Portugal have been training too...
Cristiano Ronaldo (L) and teammates take part in a training session
Matthew Southcombe
Pepe a doubt for Wales clash
Portugal centre-back Pepe has missed training today with a thigh problem.
The Real Madrid defender has been in good form this tournament and if he were to miss the semi-final against Wales, it would be a huge blow.
Matthew Southcombe
More training pics
Wales' Neil Taylor during a training session
Hal Robson-Kanu controls the ball in training
Joe Allen and Joe Ledley tangle during training
Wales players during a training session at their base in Dinard
Matthew Southcombe
Portugal's Andre Gomes talks about Wales...
I know Gareth Bale from the Spanish league.
I also played against British teams in the past so I know the way they play, their style.
They are very strong physically, they’ve got a very good team.
We are preparing to face very strong Wales team, they attack well. I think they counter-attack very well as well.
But we will use our weapons the best way we can to beat them on Wednesday.
Andre Gomes, Portugal
Matthew Southcombe
Wales back at it...
Wales' (left to right) Joe Allen, Jazz Richards and Jonathan Williams during the training session
Matthew Southcombe
Gunter attracting interest - reports
Chris Gunter, who has had a fantastic European Championship, is reportedly attracting interest from Scottish giants Celtic.
The 26-year-old has been one of Wales’ stars of the tournament and his performances are understood to have impressed Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers.
According to the Daily Mail, the former Swans boss is ready to trigger a £1 million release clause.
Matthew Southcombe
Lucky charm?
Sweden’s Jonas Eriksson has been appointed as the referee for the semi-final against Portugal.
He was in charge when Wales were utterly irresistible against Russia in the final group game.
Matthew Southcombe
Joe Allen to miss pre-season tour
Wales’ Euro 2016 journey affecting how the players prepare for next season.
The Mirror have reported that Joe Allen will miss the Liverpool’s pre-season tour of the USA as Wales’ competition continues.
Jurgen Klopp and his men depart on July 21 but Allen, along with Wales ‘keeper Danny Ward and Germany’s Emre Can, won’t be on the flight.
Matthew Southcombe
Right answer!
If he wasn’t already, Chris Coleman became everyone’s favourite Welshman with this.
He was asked by the English media if he would ever consider taking on the top job with the Three Lions.
What he said next was glorious...
Matthew Southcombe
Good morning!
Welcome to our live coverage of Wales at Euro 2016.
There is plenty going on today and we’ll be bringing you all the build up to Wednesday’s semi-final against Portugal.
Wales’ run in the tournament has seen an increased attendance at the media centre and Gareth Bale will be holding a press conference later.
Should be a belter.
Stay tuned throughout the day..
CREDIT TO:http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wales-euro-2016-recap-breaking-11561922Italy's Simone Zaza apologises for woeful penalty in Germany defeat - 'I will live with it for a lifetime'
Zaza was brought on specifically to take a spot-kick but ballooned his effort over the bar after a ridiculous run-up
Simone Zaza has apologised to Italy fans after his shocking penalty miss in the Euro 2016 quarter-final defeat to Germany.
Zaza was left red-faced after his woeful spot-kick during the shootout defeat on Saturday night.
He put on a ridiculously over the top run-up before scooping his penalty high and wide, having being brought on towards the end of extra time specifically to take a spot-kick.
The move backfired in spectacular fashion for the Azzurri though, and the 25-year-old took to his Instagram account to post a lengthy apology.
Getty
Laurence Griffiths
A picture of the whole 23-man Italy squad was uploaded alongside an apology to the Italian supporters.
“I want to say that I am first a supporter of this national team so I am disappointed, sad and angry with myself," he said.
“What has happened I will live for a lifetime, it was the target of the team and mine and I failed.”
The Juventus man was the first Italian to miss in the shootout, with Graziano Pelle also putting his penalty hopelessly wide before Leonardo Bonucci and Matteo Darmian saw their spot kicks saved by German keeper Manuel Neuer.
Bonucci had earlier scored from the spot in normal time to cancel out Mesut Ozil's opener.
But after Italy's woeful penalty taking, Germany now go on to face hosts France in a blockbuster semi final.
After signing for Juventus last summer Zaza endured a difficult first season in Turin, making only 19 league appearances and netting just five goals as he struggled to displace Paolo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic.
CREDIT TO:http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/italys-simone-zaza-apologises-woeful-8348730Manchester United legend Patrice Evra shows his colours after encounter with young France supporter
Patrice Evra is a key member of France’s Euro 2016 team (Picture: Getty)Patrice Evra has proven he is a class act after revealing he believes his international duties with France go beyond the playing squad.
The defender is a popular figure in France despite leading a player revolt in the disastrous 2010 World Cup campaign and said he always tries to hang behind at training to sign autographs.
Evra has plied his trade at massive clubs like Manchester United and Juventus and is currently attempting to led France to a Euro 2016 home victory, but says he wants to inspire and encourage the next generation of Les Blues.
The 35-year-old has often been seen taking time to mingle with supporters and revealed a telling conversation he had with a fan recently.
‘Football is never easy. You could have the technique of Cristiano Ronaldo or Messi but the most important thing is that you believe what you can achieve,’ Evra told Uefa.com
‘I always give young people that message. I said that to a fan yesterday.
‘I was signing a jersey and he said, ‘You are my favourite player’.
‘I told him, ‘I hope one day I will come [to a game] with my son and you will sign an autograph for him’. The kids, they are the future so we need to show them a good example and make sure that, maybe, they can achieve their dream.’
France’s emphatic 5-2 victory over Iceland on Sunday secured a semi-final clash with Germany on Thursday as their quest to win the tournament on home soil remains on track.
Euro 2016: I would never manage England - Coleman
Chris Coleman's next job is set to be abroad as the Wales manager ruled out ever taking the helm at England.
Chris Coleman's next job is set to be abroad as the Wales manager ruled out ever ta...
Wales manager Chris Coleman insists he would never take the helm at England or any other national team.
Coleman was among those linked to replace Roy Hodgson, having led Wales to the Euro 2016 semi-finals.
However, the 46-year-old former Fulham and Coventry City boss rubbished suggestions he would even consider taking on the England job.
"It's something that would never, ever enter my thinking," Coleman said.
"I'm a Welshman through and through. It would only ever be Wales."
Coleman has been in charge of Wales since 2012, and his side face Portugal in the last four in France.
As for what his future holds, he wants to work overseas – having already experienced Spain and Greece with Real Sociedad and Larissa respectively.
"My next job after Wales, whenever that is, will be somewhere abroad," he said.
"I quite fancy the chance of going abroad again, because I think that's my best one of managing in the Champions League.
"Champions League football in the Premier League – you're talking about the top, big, massive clubs, and it's not something I think I'd get linked with.
"So, my best chance of managing Champions League football would be abroad and it's an ambition of mine to do that. To manage another country? No, I wouldn't. That's not something I would consider."
Juventus become first Italian team to partner with EA Sports
The five-time Serie A champions make history, striking a three-year deal
Juventus have become the first Italian team in history to partner with EA Sports, striking a three-year partnership to make FIFA the exclusive and official video game of the Italian giants. Juventus have clearly stated their intentions on the pitch, snapping up Roma's midfielder Miralem Pjanic and Barcelona fullback Dani Alves in the transfer window so far, and the five-time Serie A champs look to further cement their place amongst the best in the world.
Juventus' management team has placed premium importance on forward-thinking branding and development, and this partnership is just the latest shrewd marketing move on the part of the Bianconeri, who announced the move via a statement on their website. With deals in place with adidas, Jeep, and now EA Sports, Juventus continue to broaden their global marketing appeal by partnering with the world's most successful soccer game.
According to the release: "In addition to new player faces and creating Juventus Stadium through FIFA 17's brand new engine Frostbite, the partnership will see a range of cross-marketing activities during the 2016/17 season including EA SPORTS gaming pods with FIFA 17 located in Juventus Stadium, accessible before the matches and at half time, fan competitions hosted on EA and Juventus digital channels and a dedicated EA SPORTS sponsorship of the Juventus MVP of the month."
Juve's Giorgio Ricci, Head of Global Partnerships and Corporate Revenues weighed in on the move from the bianconeri standpoint, saying: "Juventus' agreement with EA SPORTS is of great importance because it represents the first time that an Italian football club has signed a partnership with the video gaming giant and allows us to truly reach out to the entertainment industry on a worldwide scale given the popularity of FIFA 17 among young people and indeed the rest of the market."
CREDIT TO:http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/juventus-becomes-first-italian-team-to-partner-with-ea-sports-070416?cmpid=feed:-sports-CQ-RSS-FeedPrincipality Stadium to become Fanzone
Principality Stadium will host Cardiff’s EURO 2016 fanzone for the screening of Wales’ semi-final match against Portugal on Wednesday 6 July.
The Football Association of Wales and Welsh Rugby Union has joined forces with Cardiff Council to give fans the opportunity to watch the biggest match in the history of Welsh football for free on the big screens at the home of Welsh sport.
As part of the #TogetherStronger campaign sweeping the nation, organisers have arranged for the installation of a 100ft screen alongside the existing two big screens at the iconic venue.
Fans not travelling to the Stade des Lyon are invited to gather at Principality Stadium to cheer on Wales for the Semi-Final - the furthest stage the team has reached in an international tournament.
Tickets will be available free of charge via www.principalitystadium.wales/togetherstronger from 10am tomorrow (Tuesday) on a first-come-first-serve basis (maximum 4 person) for the reserved seating areas, with a 20,000 capacity.
Supporters may opt to make a donation which, added to any profit from the event, will be shared equally between FAW Trust, WRU grassroots initiatives and the Lord Mayor’s charity, Cancer Research Wales.
Gates will open at 6.30pm for the 8.00pm kick off, giving ticketholders early access to the official city-centre celebration for all the build-up before an unrestricted view of the match on the giant screens. Fans will also have the opportunity to purchase the official EURO 2016 tournament programme, the very-same on sale at the match.
FAW Chief Executive Jonathan Ford: “The scenes and support we have seen at home during the course of the tournament has been nothing short of memorable, and we hope that our passionate supporters can enjoy another historic night watching Wales.”
Cllr Peter Bradbury, City of Cardiff Council’s Cabinet member for Community Development, Co-operatives and Social Enterprise, said: “The Cardiff Fanzone in Cooper’s Field has been a tremendous success. Close to 25,000 people have come through the gates to cheer on Wales and following Friday’s incredible performance against Belgium we knew that many more would be desperate to come and experience the atmosphere for the semi-final.
“We didn’t want anyone to feel left out, so it was important we found a way to increase capacity. Working with the FAW and the WRU to move the Fanzone to Principality will give thousands more a chance to see our boys make history. I really must, however, give a huge thank you to our other partners, Sayer’s Amusements, BBC Wales and Vauxhall. The Fanzone in the park - which will live long in the memories of anyone who attended - wouldn’t have been possible without their help and commitment.”
"The scenes and support we have seen at home during the course of the tournament has been nothing short of memorable, and we hope that our passionate supporters can enjoy another historic night watching Wales.
Martyn Phillips, Chief Executive of the Welsh Rugby Union which owns and operates Principality Stadium, said: “This is a momentous time for Welsh sport and the people of Wales who have united ‘Together Stronger’ in celebration of Wales’ historic success in a major football tournament.
“On a personal level as a Welsh-man and on behalf of the WRU I’ve enjoyed every minute of the Euros and the positive images of Welsh sport beamed across the world to put Wales on the map as a competitive sporting nation.
“As Welsh football supporters all over the world prepare for the greatest international match in the history of the sport on Wednesday, the WRU is proud to be throwing open the doors to host Cardiff’s official fanzone in association with the FAW and Cardiff Council.”
Supporters are reminded that enhanced security checks will be in place and to leave large bags at home, where possible, to avoid further hold-up on arrival at the venue.
CREDIT TO:http://www.faw.cymru/en/news/principality-stadium-become-fanzone/Sir Geoff Hurst: Sam Allardyce is interesting but I pick Glenn Hoddle for England manager
Sir Geoff Hurst has backed Glenn Hoddle to be the next England manager
Sir Geoff Hurst believes Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce would make an interesting England manager but Glenn Hoddle is his pick to succeed Roy Hodgson.
The England great - scorer of a famous hat-trick in the 1966 World Cup final - insists the next manager has to be English and the FA must also implement plans for managerial succession.
He said: "There are some candidates who spring to my mind who have been around - Sam Allardyce, for example.
"He is enormously experienced and it would be interesting to see what he would do, but if I had to select a candidate I think it would be Glenn Hoddle, who has said he would talk to the FA.
"We should be looking at definitely appointing an English manager. I have got to stick with my view - for me it has got to be an Englishman now. I felt years ago we should get the best man worldwide but, having seen one or two of the foreign coaches, I have changed my mind.
Hoddle (left) took England to the 1998 World Cup knockout stages
"But we are at a limited choice. At my time you generally selected the England manager from the outstanding manager in the First Division, but nowadays all the top clubs are managed by foreign managers."
Former England boss Steve McClaren told Sky Sports News HQ on Monday that he also thinks the FA should implement plans for managerial succession, and Hurst used Bobby Robson and Terry Venables as examples to illustrate his case.
Sam Allardyce kept Sunderland in the Premier League last season
"When Ron Greenwood got the job in 1977, for five years, he cleverly appointed Bobby Robson to be the manager of the B team and Terry Venables to manage the Under-23 side," Hurst said.
"Fast-forward many years, Bobby nearly won the World Cup in 1990 and Venables nearly won the Euros in 1996. Maybe we should be looking at that kind of progression again, if it proves to be successful."
CREDIT TO:http://www.skysports.com/football/news/12016/10373533/sir-geoff-hurst-sam-allardyce-is-interesting-but-i-pick-glenn-hoddle-for-england-managerLuck of the draw bodes well for Portugal
Portugal are through to the semi-finals despite not posting a single win over 90 minutes – but they are in good company. EURO2016.com meets the teams who drew their way to glory.
Portugal have only led for 23 minutes in France ©AFP/Getty ImagesPortugal did it again last Thursday, continuing their progress at UEFA EURO 2016 despite not winning a single game within normal time.
Fernando Santos's side are nothing if not consistent, their quarter-final penalty shoot-out victory over Poland coming after their fifth stalemate at the end of 90 minutes in France. Having kicked off with Group F draws against Iceland, Austria and Hungary, Cristiano Ronaldo and Co came closest to a regulation success when they beat Croatia via an extra-time goal in the last 16.
Now safely through to the semi-finals, Portugal could conceivably lift the trophy on 10 July with more of the same – and who would put it past a team that have led for a mere 24 minutes while digging deep to equalise on four separate occasions? They certainly would not be the first side to take a more attritional route to glory, as EURO2016.com explains.
Atlético Madrid, 2009/10 UEFA Europa League
W3 D8 L4 – champions
The Rojiblancos were not obvious candidates when they transferred from the UEFA Champions League after managing just three group stage points. Still, Diego Forlán's 90th-minute clincher took them past Galatasaray in the last 32, and Atleti then overcame Sporting CP, Valencia and Liverpool on away goals. That was not an option in the final, but Atlético did the next best thing, Forlán scoring deep into extra time to see off Fulham and end a 14-year wait for silverware.
PSV Eindhoven, 1987/88 European Cup
W3 D5 L1 – champions
Extra time was too soon for PSV. Guus Hiddink's Dutch double winners mustered victories against Galatasaray and Rapid Wien (twice), though none after round two. They squeezed past Bordeaux and Real Madrid on away goals following 1-1 draws in France and Spain, then outlasted Benfica in a goalless final. Even the penalty shoot-out went to sudden death. António Veloso (father of Miguel) missed and the Netherlands' golden summer began.
Russia, 2013 UEFA European Under-17 Championship
W1 D4 – champions
Russia registered a solitary win and four draws, yet their deadly accuracy from the penalty spot saw Dmitri Khomukha's men through in Slovakia. Having dispatched Ukraine 3-0 on the opening day, Russia netted just once more, in a draw with Italy that rubber-stamped pole position in their group. They drew the semi-final and final 0-0 before showing their class from the spot to down Sweden (10-9) and Italy (5-4). "I'm lost for words," said defender Dzhamaldin Khodzhaniyazov. He was not the only one.
CREDIT TO:http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/newsid=2387007.htmlWales Euro 2016 star Joe Ledley cancels wedding after team defies expectations by reaching semi-finals
Ledley was due to get married on Saturday but has now called it off after the team's sensational run now sees them set to face Portugal on Wednesday evening
Welsh Euro 2016 star Joe Ledley has cancelled his wedding - because his team is doing far better than expected and is into the semi-finals
Teammate Gareth Bale revealed the news this afternoon as Wales prepare for the showdown with Portugal on Wednesday evening.
Ledley was due to get married on Saturday but has now called it off after their sensational run.
It comes after defender Chris Gunter was forced to miss his brother tying the knot later this week and will become Best Man by Skype.
Speaking about Ledley’s situation Bale said: “He’s obviously booked it a long time ago, before qualifying.
Stu Forster
“These things do happen to pop up. The boys are fully focused on the task in hand and I’m sure they’ll re-organise stuff.”
As thousands of supporters head to Lyon for tomorrow’s match Bale was upbeat and positive about Wales’ chances against Portugal.
Andy Stenning/Daily Mirror
But he described how the team’s success is causing chaos for some of his team-mates plans.
Midfielder Ledley, 29, was due to marry fiancee Ruby May Ridgeway in Ibiza at the weekend.
Stu Forster
Following Friday night’s sensational win quarter-final over Belgium, Ruby May tweeted: “Can’t quite believe what happened last night. I think I’m still in a state of shock.
“Outstanding from every single player, This is a dream.”
The couple have two daughters and are now due to reschedule the big day after the tournament has finished.
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Bale said: “None of us were invited or are going to Joe Ledley’s wedding – it makes no difference now.”
Bale said he “dreams” of winning tomorrow’s match and getting to Paris for the final at the weekend.
And he said the team spirit in the camp is superb.
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Bale said: “The atmosphere is the still the same, we are joking around, doing our quizzes, I won again today.
“That is six in a row now for our team – it was pictures , they were blurred out and you had to get the players.
“We are on fire our team.
Stu Forster
“It was just Premier League players.
“It is still the same spirit and we are trying to enjoy the occasion “We are enjoying the ride and it is a great journey to be on.
“We are joking around and having a laugh.”
Bookies are fearing a caning from punters if Wales go all the way and win the tournament.
One small Welsh bookie is facing a £1million payout if Wales win the Euros - because so many proud punters backed them at 100/1.
Corbett Sports say they’re facing a huge loss if Chris Coleman’s team go all the way in France.
Stu Forster
The family firm, which is based in North Wales, say punters were inspired by Leicester City, and piled on bets on Wales at the enhanced odds.
Managing director Mike Corbett said: “As a Welsh betting firm we are completely torn - we desperately want to see Wales continue this magnificent adventure - but we face a huge payout of more than £1m pounds if the boys in red win Euro 2016
And one punter is 180 minutes away from calling two of the biggest footballing upsets of all time.
Michael Regan/Getty Images
The unnamed Ladbrokes customer placed a £2 bet on Leicester City finishing in the Premier League top four and Wales winning Euro 2016 - both priced at 50/1.
The bet was placed at a shop in east London in October and could be rewarded with a £5,200 windfall if it comes off.
CREDIT TO:http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/wales-euro-2016-star-joe-8348355
Liverpool midfielder shows off outrageous trick shot in training
Emre Can could be set to make his EURO 2016 bow against France later this week and he’s been looking impressive in training after his national team uploaded a video of him and Lukas Podolski attempting behind the goal – goals.
With the German’s midfield options suddenly looking slightly short given Sami Khedira and Bastian Schweinsteiger’s fitness concerns Can could be in line to deputise and if this video is anything to go by he’s clearly brimming with confidence.
The young German has become a fan favourite at Liverpool since his move in 2014/15, putting on displays that have shown the crowd at Anfield that he could be one of their key players for years to come in central midfield.
Under Jurgen Klopp he seemed to go up another gear and if it does transpire that he plays against France on the 7th of this month in the semi-final he’ll be determined to put on a performance demonstrating the talents the video below shows him to possess…
Manchester United could smash world record transfer fee to sign Paul Pogba
Jose Mourinho wants Pogba t Old Trafford
Credit:
REX Jose Mourinho has made the signing of France international midfielder Paul Pogba his top priority as Manchester United manager and his new club are prepared to shatter the world record transfer fee to bring the player to Old Trafford.
Mourinho spent a portion of his first day as United manager discussing transfer targets with chief executive Ed Woodward and stressed that Pogba is the player he is desperate to land.
That is expected to lead to an official offer being made to Juventus, which could be as much as £100m, although negotiations are likely to be delayed by the player’s continued involvement in the European Championship.
United know they will have to do something special to beat Barcelona and Real Madrid, as well as Manchester City, in the race to sign the 23-year-old and hope the size of their bid will deter their rivals from competing for his signature.
Pogba’s return to Old Trafford will be seen as a coup, albeit a hugely expensive one given they allowed the player to leave, rather than meet his wage demands for a new contract, four years ago when Sir Alex Ferguson was manager.
There is a growing confidence that Pogba will return to United, although officials are wary of being used in an attempt to drive up the asking price.
United were played during Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos’ contract negotiations at Real Madrid and their interest has also been used by Neymar’s representatives over the last 12 months to get a new deal at Barcelona.
However, Pogba is set to leave Juventus this summer and United know the size of the bid is the most important thing if they are going to win the race to sign him.
City have the resources to match their bid, although new manager Pep Guardiola has not pushed as hard to sign the player.
Barcelona and Real Madrid could also worry the United hierarchy, but they were both ordered to repay millions of pounds in illegal state aid by the European Commission on Monday following an investigation into the financial help they have received from the Spanish government. As a result, they are unlikely to be able to outbid United on this occasion.
Another pressing matter for Mourinho to contend with this week is the future of United midfielder Juan Mata.
The Spaniard was sold to United by Mourinho in January 2014 and the pair will have a face-to-face meeting on Wednesday, to discuss whether he is going to remain at the club. Everton are preparing to bid for the 28-year-old if, as expected, he is told he can leave.
United are also closing in on Mexico international striker Hirving Lozano, who is set to move to England once he has played for his country in the Rio Olympics. The 20-year-old Pachuca forward has seven senior caps, but has been asked to help Mexico defend the gold medal they won in London in 2012.
There was some cause for concern for Mourinho during his first day at the training ground following reports defender Chris Smalling had collapsed on holiday in Bali and had been taken to hospital.
Initial reports suggested the centre-back may have been stung by a jelly fish, although it later emerged he had food poisoning.
“Manchester United can clarify Chris Smalling has had food poisoning during his holiday which resulted in him fainting on Sunday, United said in an official statement. “The 26-year-old defender was taken to the hospital and is now feeling fine.”
CREDIT TO:http://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2016/07/04/manchester-united-could-sign-paul-pogba-for-world-record-transfe/