Nutrition For Soul

Kewell gets Australia, Kalac out of jail

2006-06-23T08:11:00.000+08:00

Harry Kewell produced a late equaliser to send Australia into the second round after their dramatic 2-2 draw with Croatia last night.
Darijo Srna's precise free-kick gave Croatia an early lead.

Australia were level through Craig Moore's penalty after Stjepan Tomas handled a cross, but Croatia hit back through Nico Kovac's bobbling drive.
Kewell was on hand to fire home from close range to send the Socceroos through, while Dario Simic, Brett Emerton and Josip Simunic all saw red.
Australia's draw sets up a second-round clash with Group E winners Italy as Japan failed to overhaul group winners Brazil.
The Socceroos surprisingly opted to leave out first-choice goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer in favour of the taller Zeljko Kalac.
And the replacement keeper's first touch was to pick the ball out of the net after Srna's bending set piece caught him out.
Croatia coach Zlatko Kranjcar refused to comment on referee Graham Poll's red-card frenzy, but did say: "We missed our chances. We didn't play the way we wanted to after an early lead.
"My players sat back on it although I instructed them otherwise."

Ronaldo happy after impressive double

2006-06-23T08:09:00.000+08:00

Ronaldo was delighted with his double in last night's 4-1 win over Japan.
He was criticised after Brazil's first two games before he joined Gerd Muller as the highest scorer in World Cup history on Thursday with a tally of 14.

He said: "I'm happy I've made such a significant improvement, physically and technically, during the competition.
"Patience is the key word. I managed to stay calm and patient."
Despite the Real Madrid player's timely return to form, national coach Carlos Alberto Parreira said he was still some way off his best form.
"Ronaldo is not in the best possible physical shape but step by step and little by little he is getting there," said Parreira.
"I'm sure he will be better as each game goes."
Parreira, who had looked glum-faced before Ronaldo's first goal, paid tribute to his players saying they were "deserving winners" after having "about 25 shots blocked".

Lippi delighted with Italian spirit

2006-06-23T08:08:00.000+08:00

Marcello Lippi has spoken of Italy's excellent battling qualities after their 2-0 win over Czech Republic ensured they finished top of Group E.

Lippi refused to accept that he was worried about facing the favourites for the tournament but he was relieved to pick up a second victory after the disappointing draw against nine-man USA.
"This team has terrific spirit, probably the most fighting spirit I have had in any team," said Lippi.
"We deserve to qualify; we played two great games to beat Ghana and Czech Republic - two very difficult teams.
"Finishing first was important for lots of reasons but even if we had to play Brazil, we would have given it our best shot.
"Sooner or later you're going to have to play one of the favourites."

USA fume over Ghana penalty

2006-06-23T08:05:00.000+08:00

Ghana dumped the USA out of the World Cup thanks to a controversial penalty in yesterday's final group clash.
Haminu Dramani gave Ghana, who lost their group opener to Italy, the lead after he robbed Claudio Reyna but Clint Dempsey's first-time shot made it 1-1.

Stephen Appiah restored Ghana's lead from a controversial penalty - awarded against USA defender Oguchi Onyewu.
Brian McBride sent a diving header against the post for the USA.
Referee Markus Merk stamped his early mark on the game, booking Eddie Lewis and Michael Essien inside the first six minutes.
With plenty at stake both sides were prepared for a physical battle and Lewis needed treatment for an eyebrow cut, which was caused by John Mensah's stray elbow.
Afterwards, Black Stars coach Ratomir Dujkovic said his side's qualification for the World Cup knockout stages heralds the start of a new era for football in Ghana.
Dujkovic said: "This is a historic moment for us, we are very happy.
"This is a starting point for all Ghanaians, for this group of players and myself. The first time in the World Cup and we come in the world's top 16."
He added: "We didn't play as we usually do but USA are a hard-working team.
"They pushed us hard all the time so we're very satisfied and very happy."
USA coach Bruce Arena turned on ref Merk after the defeat.
Arena said: "We worked really hard to get back in the game. I am disappointed in the ref's judgment of the penalty.
"We would have liked to come out at half-time with a chance to win it."
McBride was also critical of the decision and felt his side were unlucky to come away without at least a point.
He said: "I've rarely seen something like that given."
The defeat meant that the USA finished bottom of Group E, with a solitary point, which was gained against Italy.
The Fulham forward added: "It was a strange game. I felt we were in control for quite some time. They had very few chances but the ones they did get they scored.
"We hit a post, we stuck together and tried to push forward.
"If we had just got that second goal there is no telling what would have happened."

Atletico Madrid's Torres leaves door open to Man Utd

2006-06-22T22:05:00.000+08:00

Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres has left the door open to a move to Manchester United after the World Cup.

Asked about United's interest, Torres said: "Whenever I'm linked with great clubs, it is important as it makes me feel happy, but I will not think about that.
"I am focused on the World Cup and I do not want to speak about my club nor any other.
"Right now I have a contract with Atletico and I will think about (my future) that when the World Cup finishes."

Chelsea boss Mourinho fancies Real Madrid's Ramos

2006-06-22T21:48:00.000+08:00

Chelsea have made a move for Real Madrid and Spain international defender Sergio Ramos.

Sources close to Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho have told Marca that the Portuguese has told Blues owner Roman Abramovich to push the boat out to land Ramos.
Mourinho is preparing for the departure of William Gallas, who has only a year left on his contract, and also Ricardo Carvalho, who has been flogged to Spanish clubs since the end of last season.
Chelsea chief Peter Kenyon has an excellent relationship with Real directors and has already been told that nothing will be decided over Ramos - nor Roberto Carlos - until after the July 2 presidential election.

Chelsea scout admits tracking Barcelona's Xavi

2006-06-22T18:10:00.000+08:00

Chelsea scout Piet de Visser has admitted they're following Barcelona midfielder Xavi.

Xavi has long been sort after by Mourinho who knows the Catalan player since his days as assistant coach at Barcelona.

But Xavi remains a key figure in Frank Rijkaard's plans and is unlikely to make the switch to London.

De Visser told Sport: "Xavi is technically superb, he knows how to lose his marker well and choose the right moment to pass.

"His passing is his specialty. He is very intelligent and can win a game through short passes and a long ball with his right foot.

"He has great vision and speed when he acts, so far he is the man of the tournament (at the World Cup) and I have no doubt that he would enrich Chelsea."

Bellamy drops £15,000-a-week for Liverpool move

2006-06-22T18:07:00.000+08:00

Blackburn Rovers striker Craig Bellamy has agreed terms on a four-year contract with Liverpool.

The Guardian says Bellamy will today complete his £6m transfer from Blackburn Rovers to Liverpool after agreeing a four-year deal with the Merseyside club commanding wages of around £45,000 a week, considerably less than was on offer had he opted to prolong his stay at Ewood Park.
Rovers had proposed a similar four-year deal which would have increased his weekly pay packet to nearer £60,000 but the Wales international opted for Anfield.
The boyhood Liverpool fan undertook a medical yesterday, cutting short a holiday in Greece, and met Rafael Benítez to discuss the terms of the transfer.

Spain star Senna convinces Man Utd boss Ferguson

2006-06-22T17:58:00.000+08:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is weighing up a move for Villarreal's Spanish World Cup star Marcos Senna.

The Times says Ferguson has already lined up Michael Carrick for a transfer to Old Trafford and sees Senna as a dynamic accomplice.
The Brazilian-born player has spent the past four years playing for Villarreal and has impressed so much in recent months that he has forced his way into the Spanish national team at the age of 29.
After looking at a number of players, Senna, who has two years left on his contract, is now being given the most serious consideration.
The midfielder has declared he won't consider new contract talks until after the World Cup and United are unwilling to go higher than £4 million for his transfer.

Gerrard in bust-up with 'long-ball' Beckham

2006-06-22T12:48:00.000+08:00

Steven Gerrard and David Beckham clashed in training before England's 2-2 draw with Sweden, it has been revealed.
The Sun says Gerrard got annoyed as he felt England's captain was hitting too many long balls during games.
Becks had a pop back and the pair had a frank exchange over tactics in front of the other squad members.
But England's coaching staff are not overly concerned, viewing the clash as a healthy, spirited discussion between two of the country's most senior players.

McBride on De Rossi elbow: I've copped worse!

2006-06-22T12:46:00.000+08:00

USA warrior Brian McBride has shrugged off being battered by Italy's Daniele De Rossi on Saturday night - because he's received worse!

The battered USA hitman copped an elbow in the face against Italy on Saturday which left him with a bloody face and three stitches.
But for a man with six titanium plates in his head, a bit of needlework would not have bothered him.
Fulham ace McBride, 34, said: "I felt the pressure when Daniele De Rossi hit me but I didn't know whether it was bleeding or swelling.
"It didn't affect me. You've got to believe you can still win the ball. Apart from not being afraid we also have good doctors!
"Playing as a target man you know what to expect. I've broken my cheekbone three times and had plastic surgery twice."

Cole: England goal one of my best

2006-06-22T12:44:00.000+08:00

Joe Cole says his stunner against Sweden was one of the best goals he's scored.

The England and Chelsea midfielder said: "That was certainly up there with the best goals I've ever scored.
"I thought things went really well in the first half and they couldn't live with us.
"But we should have killed the game and we have to look at why we can't seem to sustain it for the whole game.
"Overall it was a good performance and they didn't cause us any trouble from open play, just set-pieces, which is unlike us.
"Losing Michael is a sickener but if you top your group, get an extra day's rest and avoid Germany in the next round you'd take that. But we can't afford to be complacent on Sunday. Just because Ecuador are not a big name doesn't mean they are not dangerous."

Liverpool's Hamann goes back on Bolton deal

2006-06-22T12:38:00.000+08:00

Liverpool midfielder Didi Hamann has pulled out of a move to Bolton Wanderers.

The Sun says Hamann signed a legal document confirming his intention to quit Liverpool but changed his mind, claiming his wife was unhappy about it.
Now Bolton are ready to come down heavy and demand the former German international, 32, either sticks to his agreement or buys out his contract - which could cost him £3million.
Last week the player admitted: "My heart is with Liverpool but I have to consider what I've been told and do what's right.
"The decision to sell me has not entirely come as a shock to me but deciding whether to go or not is very hard for me."
This is the second successive season Hamann has let down Bolton.
He was all set to join after Liverpool won the Champions League in 2005 but he took up Anfield's offer of a one-year contract extension.

Owen: I feel guilt over Newcastle letdown

2006-06-22T12:36:00.000+08:00

England striker Michael Owen admits one of his first thoughts after learning the seriousness of his injury was for the Newcastle United fans.
Newcastle star Owen, 26, said: "When I was flat on my back with ice-packs around my knee, I felt guilt - not self-pity.

"I was sending text messages to all sorts of people apologising for letting them down. I was feeling especially guilty towards Newcastle. Chairman Freddy Shepherd paid all that money for me, while Glenn Roeder has been very supportive.
"And those great fans have seen me for only 11 matches."
Owen, who was out for six months with a metatarsal injury, insisted: "I was really looking forward to getting my first goal and firing England a long way.
"With Wayne Rooney back, I felt things were finally falling into place.
"All those dreams were shattered within a minute but worse things happen to people every day.
"When I told my little girl that daddy had hurt his knee, she just asked me to put on Postman Pat.
"I have not had much luck this year but I'll be back.
"My 2006 World Cup is over, but there will be more big tournaments for Michael Owen."

Barcelona president: No bid for Chelsea's Lampard

2006-06-22T12:35:00.000+08:00

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has ruled out a bid for Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard this summer.

Laporta, in Frankfurt to launch a new Nike kit, said: "Lampard is a fantastic player, one I admire.
"But I can say that we definitely will NOT be signing him this summer. Our central midfield is closed now.
"We have a squad we are very happy with and we are very satisfied with Gudjohnsen and that's enough for us.
"Gudjohnsen is a class player who can play in midfield and in attack.
"So I am happy and the coach and the general manage are very happy with the squad that we have."
Laporta added: "Chelsea are a very strong team with a lot of quality players and they also have a lot of financial power and strength.
"But Arsenal, Manchester United and AC Milan also look strong so I believe it will be another tough season.
"We already have a world-class squad that can compete and we believe we can go for a clean sweep to win every competition."

Impressive Argentina do enough to finish top

2006-06-22T09:27:00.000+08:00

Argentina and Holland played out a disappointing goalless draw in their final Group C match in Frankfurt.
Despite the amount of talent on show in the Commerzbank-Arena, both sides were unable to unlock each other, as Argentina claimed top spot in the group on goal difference from the Dutch.
It means Argentina face Mexico in their round of 16 contest, while Holland have a tricky tie with Group D winners Portugal in the next phase.
With the Dutch already assured a place in the knockout stages, coach Marco van Basten made five changes to protect those players on yellow cards.
Arjen Robben, Mark van Bommel, Giovanni van Bronckhorst, Joris Mathijsen and Johnny Heitinga all started on the substitutes' bench, with Kew Jaliens, Tim de Cler, Rafael van der Vaart and striker Dirk Kuyt coming into the starting XI.
Khalid Boulahrouz, who was on a yellow card, was the fifth change for the Oranje.
Argentina boss Jose Pekerman gave starts to teenage starlet Lionel Messi and strike partner Carlos Tevez, as Hernan Crespo and Javier Saviola were not risked with their yellow cards.
Captain Juan Pablo Sorin was rested, while Leandro Cufre earned a start in the back-line for the South Americans.
There was plenty of anticipation ahead of Wednesday's contest, but the first half proved a bit of a disappointment to what might have been expected.
The Dutch started brightly with some assured passing play, with Argentina goalkeeper Roberto Abbondanzieri making an early save from a Robin van Persie free kick.
La Albicelestes found space to string passes together, with defender Boulahrouz doing ever so well to cut out a dangerous Messi through ball for Esteban Cambiasso on the edge of the Dutch box.
Argentina's ability to move the ball and interchange positions is one of their strong suits and from such a sequence, Tevez struck a left-footed shot wide of van der Sar's goal.
Holland's forays forward were not as frequent as their South American opponents, but Kuyt brought an important save out of Abbondanzieri after dispossessing Nicolas Burdisso from just outside Argentina's box.
Juan Roman Riquelme looked again to stamp his authority from his central midfield position, with the Villarreal man forcing van der Sar to punch a dangerous corner from the left over his crossbar.
He then created an even better opportunity with a low free kick that the sliding Boulahrouz knocked off his own bar after being under pressure from Tevez at the near post.
Maxi Rodriguez was excellent in the 6-0 win over Serbia & Montenegro and he looked to add to his goal tally with a fierce strike that flew just wide of van der Sar's goal from the edge of Holland's area.
The Atletico Madrid man then hit the side-netting moments later after Messi brilliantly picked out his run into the Dutch box with an exquisite pass off the outside of his left foot.
In fact, the latter stages of the half were a bit flat, with Roberto Ayala making an important block from Wesley Sneijder's strike, while Messi's run and shot forced a good save from van der Sar, as it remained goalless at the break.
The second half saw both sides try in vain to find the opening goal, with Javier Mascherano shooting high and wide for Argentina before van Persie struck a free kick over Abbondanzieri's crossbar.
Argentina's neat passing continued to carve out chances and Riquelme had a goal-bound effort miss the far post after Messi played him in before Rodriguez struck a shot over the bar moments later.
Then van Basten made a bold move by taking off the ineffective Ruud van Nistelrooy and replacing him with Ajax youngster Ryan Babel, as he looked to impose more threat on Argentina's back-line.
However, the Oranje failed to make Abbondanzieri work from an indirect free kick, as van der Vaart struck his low effort well wide.
The Boca Juniors custodian came to the rescue of Argentina moments later, as he alertly blocked Philip Cocu's close-range shot after Gabriel Milito lost a challenge for the ball with van der Vaart in the box.
Cocu and Kuyt were then wide of the mark with further efforts, as Holland tried to apply more pressure, while Tevez kept van der Sar on his toes with a deflected strike.
With the second round just around the corner, Pekerman replaced Messi and Riquelme with Julio Cruz and Pablo Aimar before van der Vaart missed the target again with a curling free kick.
Tevez had the last chance of the match in the two minutes of injury time with a volleyed effort going just wide of van der Sar's goal.
For all the attacking endeavour from both sides, it was both sets of defenders that shined in the end, as jeers were heard from stands at the final whistle.

Elephants stomp on Serbia

2006-06-22T09:24:00.000+08:00

Ivory Coast won their first ever World Cup game last night as they defeated Serbia & Montenegro 3-2.
Serbia were 2-0 up after 20 minutes, Nikola Zigic rounding Boubacar Barry for the first and Sasa Ilic punishing Cyril Domoraud's poor miscontrol.
Aruna Dindane then scored a twice-taken penalty before Albert Nadj was sent off at the end of the first-half.

Dindane's header made it 2-2, before Bonaventure Kalou scored a second penalty, though Ivory Coast ended up with 10 men after Domoraud's dismissal.
The win was Ivory Coast's first in the World Cup finals, delighting the 66,000 crowd at Munich's Allianz Arena.
It was also the first time a team had come back from two goals down to win a match in the competition since West Germany's 3-2 victory over England in 1970.
Serbia & Montenegro coach Ilija Petkovic was unhappy with Mexican referee Marco Rodriguez after the match.
Petkovic said: "By awarding two penalties against us he allowed Ivory Coast to dominate the game.
"The referee did what he had to do but he should ask himself several questions about the way he handled the match."
Petkovic was more gracious in his praise of the Ivorians.
"Ivory Coast played an outstanding match. They were unfortunate, with more luck they could have come second. Ivory Coast were superior to us."
After Serbia were humiliated 6-0 by Argentina in their second Group C game, Petkovic announced he would step down after the World Cup.
Serbia's coach had described the Argentina defeat as "a debacle".

Angola claim deserved point

2006-06-22T09:21:00.000+08:00

Iran and Angola ended their 2006 World Cup campaigns with a point apiece after playing out a 1-1 draw in Leipzig.
The game lacked quality throughout, but it was Angola who looked the more dangerous going forward but were let down by their finishing on more than one occasion when in good positions.
Flavio gave the Angolans the lead with the country's first goal at a World Cup finals, which for a short period had given them hope of still qualifying for the second round, but all hopes were dashed by Sohrab Baktiarizadeh's 75th minute header.
After a slow start to the game, where neither side really took too many risks, it was Angola who had the first chance of the match when Joao Ricardo's long kick upfield was flicked on by Fabrice Akwa, but Andre Mateus wasted a good chance by firing high when he had time to compose himself.
It took until the 15th minute for either goalkeeper to be tested, but like London buses, two came within a minute of each other, Ferydoon Zandi and Paulo Figueiredo forcing good low saves from their oppositions' keeper.
Iran should have been ahead at the mid-point of the first half when veteran goalscorer Ali Daei headed over in acres of space.
After failing to clear an Iran free kick, the Angolan area was quickly swarmed by players and somehow Daei got away from his marker but when found from the cross, the 37-year-old sent the header from 10 yards looping over the crossbar.
Daei's strike partner Vahid Hashemian did much better with the next chance of the match but was denied by Antonio Mendonca on the line.
A dangerous corner from the left was flapped at by Ricardo, leaving Hashemian with an almost empty goal to aim his header, but he only hit the back-tracking Mendonca's thigh with the attempt.
After averting the danger at the other end, Angola began to put a foothold on the game, with striker Akwa causing a somewhat sparse Iranian backline problems with his pace and movement.
However, his finishing failed to match his desire to be on the ball as he shot over twice in quick succession.
Angola's continued improvement saw a further two chances before the break, with Ebrahim Mirzapour finally tested just close to half time.
Miloy sent a powerful shot the wrong side of the post before substitute Love's turn and shot was well dealt with by the 27-year-old goalkeeper.
In between the two chances for The Black Antelopes, Ricardo was forced into a save by Andranik Teymourian, which he fumbled before gathering at the second attempt with Iran's strikers bearing down on goal.
Angola continued from where they left off at the end of the first half in the early stages of the second with the threatening Mendonca going close twice with efforts from the edge of the area.
The unconvincing Ricardo again made a mess of a long-range shot from an Iran player, this time Mehdi Mahdavikia seeing his shot only parried by the Angola keeper when a simple catch would have been the better option.
Angola finally made one of their numerous chances pay off on the hour mark as substitute Flavio headed their first-ever World Cup goal in their third match at these finals.
The striker had only been on the field a matter of minutes when he met Ze Kalanga's cross from the right-hand side and headed coolly past a stranded Mirzapour.
Not content to sit on their first win in the World Cup, the African minnows continued to push for more goals but were again let down by their finishing as Mendonca and Love failed to really trouble Iran's goalkeeper.
With Mexico losing to Portugal in the other Group D game, Angola still harboured hopes of reaching the knock-out stages in their debut World Cup campaign.
However, they were caught out by a simple corner routine with 15 minutes remaining as Baktiarizadeh headed into the bottom corner to end any realistic hopes Angola had of beating Mexico to second place in the group.
Mahdavikia's corner was superbly met by the stopper on the penalty spot and he guided the ball into the unguarded corner of the goal to give Ricardo no chance of making the save.
Both teams seemed happy to play out the remaining 15 minutes of the match without putting in too much effort as their campaigns came to an end after just three games.

Mexico slip into last 16

2006-06-22T08:30:00.000+08:00

Portugal held out against ten-man Mexico to triumph 2-1 in Gelsenkirchen and finish top of Group D.
Luiz Felipe Scolari's side started the game superbly, racing into a two-goal lead inside 24 minutes but were extremely fortunate to get the three points after Jose Fonseca pulled one back for Mexico.
Omar Bravo missed a second half penalty and Luis Perez was controversially shown a second yellow card for diving, just after the hour mark.
Little wonder that Scolari was raging on the touchline as he saw his much-changed team struggle to impose any sort of authority over opponents who displayed plenty of craft, guile and passion for the occasion. Even though events in the Iran-Angola clash were enabling them to qualify, El Tricolores dominated the second period with ten men and should have claimed at least a point.
Fonseca forced an early save out of Ricardo but Portugal were soon into their stride, despite resting five of their biggest stars. Maniche fed Simao Sabrosa who tore down the left before returning a pass to the midfielder, and he rocketed an unstoppable drive into the top corner of the net.
A goal after six minutes may have set Portugal on their way but Bravo was unlucky when prodding a Pavel Pardo centre wide. Instead, Scolari's side went 2-0 ahead when Rafael Marquez inexplicably handled as Fernando Meira tried to meet a Luis Figo corner. Simao kept his cool to crack home the spot-kick, despite the antics of Oswaldo Sanchez on his goalline.
Sanchez then saved from Helder Postiga and Tiago blazed over the rebound but that was about as good as it got for the Euro 2004 finalists, who were then pegged back by Ricardo Lavolpe's men.
A combination of Ricardo and the bar contrived to deny Bravo when a goal seemed certain but Fonseca soon pulled one back when diverting home a simple header from a Pardo corner to make it 2-1.
Poor defending by Ricardo Carvalho enabled Fonseca to loop a header wide and Ricardo was stretched by Pardo's well-struck effort. Another exquisite cross from Pardo caused panic in the Portugal box and Armando Petit scrambled it away after Ricardo had waved a hand at the ball and managed to survive.
The second half continued to see Mexico dominate with Marquez moved back to defence after failing to impress in midfield. Pardo, the outstanding player on the pitch, belted a free kick wide and Fonseca tested Ricardo.
The game entered a critical phase on 57 minutes as Miguel flew into a challenge and handled when Perez tried to work an opening inside the box. Bravo stepped up but produced the worst penalty you are likely to see in the finals as the ball flew well off target, leaving Scolari visibly relieved on the bench.
Four minutes later, Perez tumbled under more pressure from Miguel and referee Lubos Michel decided to penalise the attacker, waving a yellow card at the Mexican for diving and then producing the red. It was extremely harsh and Portugal could have expected to alter the course of the game with a one-man advantage.
Yet Bravo was guilty of another terrible miss when springing the off-side trap but failing to give Pardo's excellent through ball the finish it deserved. It was another let-off for Portugal and they briefly burst into life with Tiago and substitute Nuno Gomes producing noteworthy attempts.
Another substitute, Chelsea's Paulo Ferreira, was fortunate not to concede a third penalty in the game when foolishly lunging at Bravo and things were clearly not going Mexico's way. When Ricardo saved Fonseca's curler, defeat was inevitable.
Maniche and Tiago had long-range efforts in the closing stages but Portugal were relieved to hear the final whistle as they were rewarded for their outstanding start to the match, along with a huge slice of luck with the major refereeing decisions.

FA facing hefty Newcastle compo bill

2006-06-22T08:20:00.000+08:00

The Football Association's insurers could face a bill for millions of pounds as they pick up the tab for Michael Owen's knee injury.

FA spokesman Adrian Bevington has confirmed the insurance policy in place for all England players will compensate the Magpies for the loss of their ?103,000-a-week striker while he recovers from the ruptured anterior cruciate ligament which ended his World Cup.
However, it is understood Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd, who will discover later this week just how long Owen will be out of action, took out additional coverage against a serious injury to his ?17million signing.
Bevington said: "We have an insurance policy in place for all players that covers their salaries while they are injured."
Shepherd said: "It's well known that the FA insure England players when they are away on international duty should issues such as compensation arise, and that applies in Michael's case."

Owen ruled out for five months

2006-06-21T20:12:00.000+08:00

The worst fears of Michael Owen and England have been realised after a scan revealed the striker will be out for five months with cruciate ligament damage.
Owen collapsed in the opening exchanges of England's 2-2 draw with Sweden on Tuesday and initial fears that the knee injury was a serious one have now been confirmed.
The news is a massive blow not only to England's World Cup bid but also Newcastle United, who now appear to be facing up to the prospect of being without Owen for virtually all of 2006.
Owen's tale of woe began on New Year's Eve last year when the former Liverpool frontman suffered a broken metatarsal in an innocuous-looking challenge with England team-mate Paul Robinson at Tottenham's White Hart Lane.
After a lengthy period of rehabilitation, Owen was declared fit for the World Cup finals and the 26-year-old started England's two group games prior to the clash with Sweden but appeared still to be feeling his way back after injury.
Misfortune has now befallen Owen once more and the news will be of grave concern to England coach Sven Goran Eriksson, who now has just the recovering Wayne Rooney, the untried Theo Walcott and Peter Crouch as striking options this summer.
An official statement from England is expected shortly.

Italy coach Lippi to step down after Germany

2006-06-21T20:10:00.000+08:00

Italian manager Marcello Lippi is reportedly set to quit the position at the end of the 2006 campaign.
Corriere dello Sport says Lippi is said to be almost certain to leave the position which he inherited from Giovanni Trapattoni in 2002. In that time he has enjoyed great success, with the Azzurri unbeaten in their last 20 matches.
The continued investigations into the "MoggiGate" scandal has led to Lippi's name being mentioned several times in alleged discussions, and it is this negativity plus the pressures of what must be one of the toughest national team jobs in the world which have taken their toll on the former Juventus manager.
One of the names already being linked to the position is that of former AC Milan boss Alberto Zaccheroni, who is also currently being linked with a move to Juventus.

Juventus defender Cannavaro now in Man Utd sights

2006-06-21T20:09:00.000+08:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is eyeing Juventus defensive pair Lilian Thuram and Fabio Cannavaro.

With Juve facing demotion from Serie A over the Calciopoli scandal, neither player is expected to continue with the Turin giants after the World Cup.
Cannavaro has emerged as a major target for Ferguson, who knows he can land the Italy international for a knockdown fee. A relegated Juventus would be desperate to get his unsustainable high wages off their books.
Thuram is interesting AC Milan, but fresh contact has been made by United and Arsenal for the 34 year-old veteran in the last 24 hours.

Juventus prepare for Buffon sale

2006-06-21T20:05:00.000+08:00

Juventus have been sounding out interested clubs in goalkeeper Gigi Buffon for the past month.

It's emerged that Juve directors held talks with Buffon's agent, Silvano Martina, a month ago to discuss the player's future. Facing the prospect of Serie B football, Juve are ready to cash in on Buffon after the World Cup.
AC Milan have told Juve intermediaries they're ready to do business, with a £15 million transfer fee now being considered. Milan would also send Christian Abbiati to Juve as a makeweight in the deal.
Buffon is aware of the negotiations and is said to welcome the possibility of moving to the San Siro before the start of next season.
Not Buffon, nor either club, have moved to deny the reports of a potential move, despite the speculation swirling for the past month.

Anelka: I can't see myself at Portsmouth

2006-06-21T20:03:00.000+08:00

Fenerbahce striker Nicolas Anelka has distanced himself from a move to Portsmouth.
"I can't see myself at Portsmouth at the moment," he told L'Equipe.
"I notice they are reinforcing their team but I'll take my time to decide my future."

Dad: Real Madrid have made Joaquin offer

2006-06-21T20:01:00.000+08:00

The father and agent of Real Betis winger Joaquin admits Jose Antonio Camacho wants to sign his son for Real Madrid.

Camacho is part of Real presidential candidate Juan Palacia's ticket and Aurelio Sanchez confirmed: "The truth is that Camacho has made me aware of their interest in Joaquin and, if the candidacy of Palacia wins he would have many possibilities to sign for them. It's through intermediaries we have spoken.
"Betis doesn't have to worry about what we're doing. We have a good relationship with them and nothing will be done to damage that."

Barcelona rival Chelsea for Lahm

2006-06-21T19:57:00.000+08:00

Barcelona have joined Chelsea in their bid for Bayern Munich left-back Philipp Lahm.

The Germany international is aware of Chelsea's interest, but insists he doesn't want to consider his club future until after the World Cup.
Bayern are demanding over £10 million for the defender, who has now emerged as a target for Barca.
Barca sports chief Txiki Begiristain has been following Lahm for over two years and the European champs won't sit by should Bayern indicate they're ready to sell this summer.
Begiristain and fellow Barca directors know they must bring in at least one new left-back with Gio van Bronkhorst and Sylvinho both entering the final year of their contracts, which when they expire they will be 32 and 33 respectively.

Valencia chief has price for Inter Milan's Martins

2006-06-21T19:55:00.000+08:00

Valencia sports chief Amadeo Carboni has made an approach to Inter Milan for striker Obefami Martins.
Carboni was in Milan this week to speak with Inter directors and made a formal inquiry about the young Nigeria international's availability.
Inter are seriously considering a sale and have told Carboni they're willing to do business for £10 million cash plus Stefano Fiore in exchange.

Sir Bobby: Sad to see sluggish Ronaldo

2006-06-21T13:55:00.000+08:00

Sir Bobby Robson says he's saddened to see his former Barcelona and PSV Eindhoven striker Ronaldo struggling with his weight.

Ex-Newcastle boss Sir Bobby said: "Ronaldo is a pale shadow of the player I knew and the player I bought 10 years ago when I was manager at Barcelona.
"It is sad to see him like this when he was once the best player in the world.
"He was so talented and powerful. It made him the player he was.
"In 1996 we paid £20million for him - which in those days was a lot of money.
"But he was arguably one of the best players in the world and soon after I signed him, he was undoubtedly the best player.
"He was a sensational player and that is why it is so sad to see him like this.
"I think there is something wrong with him at the moment.
"He is sluggish, there is no movement and he looks a shadow of the player I knew."

Man City close deal for Lazio's Dabo

2006-06-21T12:02:00.000+08:00

Manchester City have completed the signing of off contract Lazio midfielder Ousmane Dabo.

Dabo has penned a three-year deal with City after turning down an offer to stay with the Serie A club.
City boss Stuart Pearce told his club's official website: "I feel he will be a major asset to the squad.
"Ousmane is a vastly experienced holding midfield player, and gives us more options. I am delighted he is joining us."
Dabo, who made 28 starts for Lazio last season, passed a medical at City's training ground on Tuesday.
He joins fellow new recruits Joe Hart and Paul Dickov in the City squad, with Pearce still hopeful of attracting ex-Manchester United midfielder Quinton Fortune to Eastlands.

Middlesbrough boss quits Germany for Malbranque bid

2006-06-21T11:59:00.000+08:00

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate is ready to beat a host of Premiership rivals for Fulham midfielder Steed Malbranque.

Southgate, working in Germany as an ITV pundit, has made the £3.5million-rated Fulham midfielder his top target for the new season.
Newcastle manager Glenn Roeder has used his coach Lee Clark to try and tempt the French ace to St James' Park this summer.
But Boro have now joined the race and Southgate hopes their exploits in last season's UEFA Cup will help persuade him.
West Ham and Everton are also interested in the 26-year-old French ace. But Roeder is away this week starting his UEFA Pro Licence course at Warwick University and Southgate could use that to his advantage.

Unconvincing England top group

2006-06-21T06:47:00.000+08:00

England will face Ecuador on Sunday in the last 16 of the World Cup after topping Group B courtesy of a tense and largely unconvincing 2-2 stalemate against Sweden in Cologne.

Sven Goran Eriksson's underperformers proved the old adage that 'it's a game of two halves' is sometimes more than a cliche, as in the first period they deservedly led through a stupendous Joe Cole volley but in the second they threatened complete capitulation before having to settle for a point they barely deserved.

Let England's progression not disguise what was a largely miserable night that saw Michael Owen's tournament effectively finish with what looks to be a serious injury and Wayne Rooney fade before being replaced, to his dismay, on 69 minutes.

The second 45 minutes were nothing short of embarrassing at times, as Marcus Allback grabbed Sweden a leveller just moments after the restart when England lost him at a corner.

It was to be a familiar tale as Sweden twice struck Paul Robinson's crossbar before substitute Steven Gerrard powered Cole's cross past Andreas Isaksson for what looked to be a winner with just five minutes left.

It was, though, not to be the last action as in the final minute some Keystone Cops defending from a Sweden long throw gave Henrik Larsson opportunity to grab a comical, for the rest of the world at least, leveller.

From the onset - at least in the first half - England, buoyed by Rooney's bullish presence, tried to create a tempo to their game that belied tepid previous exertions.

All that is except the unfortunate Owen, who given a third and, one suspects, final chance to impress in Germany, was left crumpled in a heap after only a minute.

The Newcastle man seemed to catch his studs in the turf and the anguish on his face told a thousand stories, with Peter Crouch readied from the bench as a suspected knee injury required a stretcher.

Rid of the defensive shackles that goes hand-in-hand with any partnership with Gerrard, a free running Frank Lampard was in his element and within the opening two minutes had fired in two testers, the first a thunderbolt from distance, the second a misdirected header after Rooney's infectious enthusiasm had won the ball back and then fed him in.

Sweden in response provided the odd moment of consternation as Robinson needed a strong punch to repel a set-piece, before an advanced Teddy Lucic forced Lampard into an inadvertent block when up from a corner.

Still it would be churlish not to praise England for their desire to actually get the ball down and play and in Cole they had the half's best performer.

On 20 minutes the Chelsea man fired a yard over after cutting inside from the left flank and it was from his cross that Crouch got caught in two minds when pulling his header across rather than going for goal when free at the far post.

Sweden failed to heed Cole's warning and just short of the half-hour mark he punished them with the truest of strikes. Niclas Alexandersson's header seemed to have cleared Sweden's ranks but taking the ball on his chest thirty-five yards from goal, Cole then unleashed a looping, angled volley that dipped over Isaksson - who could do nothing to keep it out despite getting a hand to the ball.

Thereafter and English appetites were whetted as Rooney's sumptuous touch evaded Olof Mellberg but not Lucic who denied him a strike at goal. Chelsea team-mates Cole and Lampard were linking for country as they do for club as twice the latter had efforts at goal as England pressed for a second.

Neither were dispatched with the customary aplomb expected and, as if to warn against complacency in England's defence, Freddie Ljungberg made a sprightly run inside, but Rio Ferdinand's tackle was immaculate as the half drew to its close.

If the first period bristled with promise the second half was little short of shambolic, as time after time England were exposed from Sweden set-pieces.

Allback's leveller predictably came from a corner, with Sweden also hitting the bar twice as Eriksson's side crumbled under waves of yellow pressure.

When the goal arrived, the 2000th in World Cup history, it was former Aston Villa misfit Allback that reeked revenge on the English, when he sneaked in front of David Beckham to steer his header over Robinson and Ashley Cole at the far post.

England were not being undone by South American dazzling feet or continental flicks, but rather the type of crosses into the box that are the staple of any Premiership game.

Just minutes after Allback's goal and Larsson stooped low to direct a header goalwards that flicked off Jamie Carragher and then, somewhat fortuitously, the crossbar.

In the 55th minute and England's night of ups and far too many downs took another turn for the worse as Ferdinand limped off to be replaced by Sol Campbell.

Sweden smelt top spot and not a little fear from their compatriot on England's bench, as yet again another set-piece exposed a static backline. Lucic headed the ball back across England's box and on the half volley defensive partner Mellberg clipped the bar from the penalty spot.

On a rare forward foray Crouch had a header that drifted wide but it was Sweden that went closest when England had Gerrard to thank for repelling Kim Kallstrom's drive from the edge of the box off his own goal-line.

They were even more thankful five minutes from time when Cole's fine cross from left to right found the advanced Liverpool man at the far post and his header was bulleted past Isaksson.

Had England won maximum spoils then they would have had to start the next game in a change kit of black and white stripes, so at least they are saved this embarrassment, as miserable defending from Campbell allowed a combination of Larsson and Mellberg to hand Sweden a point on a night that raised more questions than answers.

Paraguay end T&T dreams

2006-06-21T06:44:00.000+08:00

Paraguay recorded a 2-0 victory over Trinidad & Tobago to finish third in Group B.
The Soca Warriors still had an outside chance of qualifying for the second round at kick-off and, needing to win, they started with far more attacking intent than they had shown in either of their first two games.
However, Paraguay were also desperate to give their supporters something to cheer about before they went home following two disappointing performances
T&T goalkeeper Kelvin Jack was called into action within the first couple of minutes, leaping to his left to deny Roque Santa Cruz after he had cleverly flicked on Edgar Baretto's free kick.
In a virtual mirror image Paraguay goalkeeper Aldo Bobadilla produced a superb save at the other end to keep out Cornell Glen, who had connected well with Dwight Yorke's inswinging delivery.
With nothing to lose the South Americans played in a refreshingly free flowing manner but struggled to provide the quality needed in front of goal until they were given a helping hand by opposing defender Brent Sancho on 25 minutes.
A dangerous free kick from Roberta Acuna was headed on by Julio Dos Santos, sparking panic in the T&T box.
Sancho climbed high in an attempt to head the ball away but he could not control the direction of his clearance and unfortunately turned it into his own net.
In a bold early substitution Kenwyne Jones was brought on for Avery John but the tactical move did not have the desired effect, as Paraguay, buoyed by the goal, took complete control.
Jack once again proved that he was a capable stand-in for Shaka Hislop with a fearless save from Nelson Valdez, but moments later he was indebted to the referee's assistant after Denis Caniza's shot squirmed past him at his near post.
It looked as if Caniza's goal had stood but after an outrageously long wait the flag went up. It may have been a late decision but it was a correct one.
On the stroke of half time Jack kept T&T in it once again, acrobatically diving to his right to tip Valdez's firm header round the post.
Leo Beenhakker's side lost Glen with a nasty-looking injury but did not let their heads drop as they began the second half much more strongly.
They almost scored a wonderful goal moments after the resumption when Jones embarked on an inspired dribble before laying a pass to Carlos Edwards, but his cross was just too hard for Stern John.
Paraguay briefly seemed rattled by The Soca Warriors' high tempo, but they quickly regained their composure and their organised back line mostly restricted T&T to shots from distance and hopeful long balls.
On the break Paraguay also looked threatening, and came close to doubling their advantage when Carlos Paredes stung the palms of Jack, whose overall save count was nearing double figures.
In a pulsating last 20 minutes T&T upped the ante further in their quest for a World Cup goal, with substitute Russell Latapy lashing narrowly wide from outside the area.
Their ambition left them exposed at the back though, and any lingering hopes of getting back into the game were killed off when Nelson Cuevas scored a fine second goal for Paraguay (86), coolly slotting home after a neat one-two with Santa Cruz.
T&T ended the tournament goalless and bottom of the group, but their honest endeavour will have won them legions of new fans.

Hosts stroll to easy victory

2006-06-21T06:41:00.000+08:00

Germany coasted past Ecuador 3-0 to clinch top spot in Group A with ease but bigger obstacles will face the World Cup hosts in the later stages.
Jubilant coach Jurgen Klinsmann watched on as his side strolled to victory after Miroslav Klose calmed any nerves with a fourth minute opener. The Werder Bremen striker collected another goal just before half time, his fourth of the tournament, and forward partner Lukas Podolski got off the mark midway through the second half.
It all added up to a comfortable afternoon in Berlin and even Ecuador seemed prepared to accept second place and conserve their energies ahead of the knockout phase tie with either England or Sweden on Sunday.
Luis Antonio Valencia's early burst down the right flank suggested the South Americans were up for the battle but they soon faded after failing to properly clear a corner. Per Mertesacker played the ball to the back post where Bastian Schweinsteiger, who was far more effective than in previous games, neatly tucked it into the path of Klose. The Germany number 11 made no mistake by pouncing to sweep an unstoppable finish wide of Cristian Mora's dive.
Germany assumed total control of the proceedings, save for a few sporadic Ecuadorian breaks, and they proceeded to carve out chances at regular intervals. Bernd Schneider blazed over after good work from Philipp Lahm and Schweinsteiger, while Mora kept out Klose.
Captain Michael Ballack was off target from long range following some smart play by Mora in preventing Podolski from reaching Ballack's well-placed through ball.
Klose showed great technique to volley a Schneider flick from over his shoulder but the finish was too high and Ecuador finally mustered an attempt when a neat dummy by Felix Borja foxed Arne Friedrich but Ivan Kaviedes was always stretching when diverting his shot well wide.
The game was over as a contest once Ballack's chip had provided Klose with an opportunity to take his tally to four for the finals, one ahead of closest rival Fernando Torres of Spain. The wily striker held off Giovanny Espinoza and took the ball past the on-rushing Mora to tap into an empty net.
After the break, Podolski and Schweinsteiger tested Mora but Jens Lehmann was belatedly called into the action at the other end with identical saves to flip over long-range attempts from Edwin Tenorio and the classy Edison Mendez.
Podolski should have scored after Lahm evaded Jorge Guagua far too easily down Germany's left flank but he did not have to wait long for his first World Cup finals goal. A flowing move on the break sliced open the Ecuador defence with Schweinsteiger patiently feeding Schneider on the right wing. When the cross arrived, it was also perfectly timed and Podolski did not have to break stride, sliding in to beat Mora.
The remaining 33 minutes saw little action of note, although Klose's pull-back did allow Podolski another chance - they may allegedly not get on too well off the field but Germany's strikers were too hot for Ecuador to handle.
Ecuador produced their best effort of the game when Mendez curled a right-footed free kick just over the top of Lehmann's goal and substitute Cristian Lara also fired a speculative shot wide.
Germany rallied in the closing stages, looking to add a fourth to further delight their already cheerful home supporters. Ballack, clearly playing within himself and lucky to avoid injury when fouled by Valencia, lashed over and the Chelsea new boy also stung Mora's hands with a powerful drive. The over-worked keeper also did well to thwart Schweinsteiger but it mattered little as the hosts coasted home.

Inter Milan supremo Moratti turns to Raul

2006-06-21T06:39:00.000+08:00

Inter Milan patron Massimo Moratti is considering a move for Real Madrid captain Raul.

The striker came off the bench yesterday to inspire Spain to victory over Tunisia in front of Inter director Marco Branca.
Raul has already been encouraged by former Real sports director Jorge Valdano to quit Spain to revive his career and Moratti fancies bringing the Spaniard to Milan after the World Cup.
Moratti and Inter coach Roberto Mancini are seeking a foil for Adriano and along with Raul have also considered teammate Antonio Cassano.

Barcelona want Chivu to reject Roma deal

2006-06-21T06:37:00.000+08:00

Barcelona have moved for Roma's Romania international defender Cristian Chivu.

Barca have attempted to sign Chivu for the coming season, but Roma's ?15 million asking price is deemed too rich by president Joan Laporta.
Instead, Barca have made contact with Chivu's agents and told him not to sign a new deal with the Serie A club. The Romanian is in talks over a new deal with Roma, but negotiations have stalled since the end of last season.
Complicating matters for Barca, however, is interest from Real Madrid. If Chivu becomes available, Barca can expect a battle with Real for the defender.

Liverpool, Valencia ready for Zapater answer today

2006-06-21T06:33:00.000+08:00

Liverpool and Valencia are keeping tabs on Real Zaragoza's new contract talks with Alberto Zapater today.
Zaragoza have demanded an answer from Zapater over their offer, which is worth around £3.5 million over five years.
"The player wants to stay and is wishing that they reach an agreement, but there is nothing new. Everything is the same," said Zapater's agent, Gines Carvajal.
"It's true they want an answer (today). We'll see what happens."

Man Utd boss Ferguson leads race for £15M Mascherano

2006-06-20T18:59:00.000+08:00

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is leading the race for Argentine star Javier Mascherano.
But the United boss will face a battle with Real Madrid for the £15million-rated combative midfielder. He currently plays his football in Brazil with Corinthians after starting his career in Argentina with River Plate.
The 22-year-old has resolved to move to Europe this summer and United want him to the gaping void in their midfield left by Roy Keane's departure.

Ribery: I'm leaving Marseille

2006-06-20T18:45:00.000+08:00

Manchester United target Franck Ribery has declared he wants to leave Marseille after the World Cup for Gerard Houllier's Lyon.

United had a £9 million offer for Ribery rejected last month and the France international told Le Parisien yesterday: "Lyon is clearly my priority for next season. My wish is not to stay with OM next season. I aspire to play at a European level. I was ready to do it with OM, which is a club who have helped me reach my dreams. But OM can no longer today offer sporting guarantees in the short and medium term.
"OM also knows that it could, thanks to my transfer, make a lot of money.
"I did not cost anything in transfer fees, it would be a good operation and a just reward. Too many things changed at OM. The departure of the coach really shook me."

Vieira tells France teammates: Stop moaning

2006-06-20T13:38:00.000+08:00

Patrick Vieira has told moaning France teammates to blame themselves - and not the ref - for letting slip three points against South Korea on Sunday night.
Mexican official Benito Archundia ruled out a Vieira header which was at least a yard over the line before being scooped away by South Korean keeper Lee Woon-jae.
Thierry Henry, who bagged France's goal in the 1-1 draw, launched a furious attack on the referee.

But his former Arsenal colleague Vieira reckons the squad should look closer to home if they want someone to criticise.
He said: "I am not sure if the referee's position was good enough but there is nothing we can do about it now.
"We have had things go for us on a number of occasions and now we have experienced the other side.
"The bottom line is we should have killed them off. We know that. That is why we cannot complain too much about the referee.
"If we were making chances and scoring, we wouldn't have to complain about the referee.
"We should complain about ourselves instead. When you don't score goals, you make things difficult. It is quite difficult to take and quite frustrating. But we have to pick ourselves up."
Meanwhile, Henry has hit out at critics of teammate Zinedine Zidane: "Players like him touched the World Cup. What they did in 1998 will always remain.
"You don't forget about people like Zidane or what they did eight years ago. There certainly shouldn't be a cloud over how people remember them."

Everton boss delighted with Van der Meyde commitment

2006-06-20T13:33:00.000+08:00

Everton boss Dave Moyes is delighted Andy van der Meyde has declared he wants to stay at Goodison Park.

Moyes said: "I want him to stay and I want to see him get fit. He is a player who looks like he can get you a goal or create something out of nothing."
Moyes did concede that he was disappointed with the manner in which the Dutch international began his Everton career.
"I think we were all disappointed," Moyes told evertonfc.com, "I was upset and so was Andy. We were frustrated because we had brought him here to play and know he's got something. He has fantastic ability.
"He's a good lad, with a real good character. We spoke at the end of last season and he was honest with me, as I was with him. He knew he hadn't performed as we'd hoped and he was so frustrated with his injuries."

Newcastle's Butt on way to Sheffield Utd

2006-06-20T13:31:00.000+08:00

Newcastle midfielder Nicky Butt is on the verge of a £500,000 move to promoted Sheffield United.
The former Manchester United and England midfielder, 31, was on loan at relegated Birmingham last season.
He is in the last year of his contract with the Toon - where he made just 25 first-team starts following a £2.5m move in July 2004.
Butt will now pick up a £20,000-a-week deal with the Blades.

Blackburn accept defeat in Liverpool battle over Bellamy

2006-06-20T13:30:00.000+08:00

Blackburn Rovers have accepted defeat in Liverpool's bid for striker Craig Bellamy.

The Sun says Bellamy is poised to join Liverpool in a shock £6million deal.
Blackburn are thought to have accepted a bid because of a get-out clause in his contract.
The Wales striker, 26, joined Blackburn from Newcastle for £5m last July. But he insisted on being allowed to speak to any club which offered £6m for him.
As Bellamy supported the Anfield club as a boy, his heart appears set on a move to Merseyside.
Kop boss Rafa Benitez is keen to add firepower to his side as he tries to turn them into genuine title challengers.
Bellamy fits the bill after an impressive season with Rovers, which saw him score 17 goals.

"Fab"ulous play inspire Spain's victory

2006-06-20T08:22:00.000+08:00

Arsenal midfield ace Cesc Fabregas came off the bench to help Spain come-from-behind to defeat Tunisia 3-1 last night.
Tunisia had taken a surprise lead on eight minutes after Joahar Mnari beat Iker Casillas at the second attempt.

But on 71 minutes Ali Boumnijel spilled Fabregas' shot allowing Raul to score, with the Arsenal midfielder then setting up a goal for Fernando Torres.
The Atletico Madrid striker scored his third goal of the tournament when he won and scored a stoppage-time penalty, a spot-kick Boumnijel almost saved.
The win sent Spain to the top of Group H with six points, though Tunisia still have a chance of qualifying.
Spain coach Luis Aragones paid tribute to Tunisia afterwards.
"I knew it would be a very complicated and difficult game," he said. "They caught us on the break in the first half and then shut up at the back and it was tremendously difficult for us to break through.
"After Cesc (Fabregas) took a shot and Raul got the goal, it became much easier to open them up."
Torres agreed that the Tunisians proved a stiff test for his team-mates.
"It was harder than we expected but it is important to win any way you can," said the Atletico Madrid forward.
"The team showed spirit and did not get downhearted when they were behind.
"As long as the strikers keep scoring we will progress in this tournament."
Raul added: "Regarding my goal, it was very important for the team to get back on terms.
"It calmed us down and it says a lot for the team that we hung on in there and came back."
Tunisia coach Roger Lemerre said one error cost his side a shock victory: "I am very disappointed because we had good tactics, but it all crumbled because of a single mistake."
The Frenchman's side face Ukraine in their final group game on Friday, when nothing more than a win will do if they are to have a chance of progressing further.
"The Ukraine game will be decisive and we will have to do a better job to make it to the last 16," Lemerre admitted.
"The route will be difficult, but we still have hope."

Switzerland shoot down the Hawks

2006-06-20T08:21:00.000+08:00

Switzerland did enough to see off an energetic Togo 2-0 yesterday thanks to goals from Alexander Frei and Tranquillo Barnetta.
Rennes striker Frei neatly stabbed home the unmarked Barnetta's cross from close-range after 17 minutes.
Togo were denied a decent penalty claim when Emmanuel Adebayor was chopped down and Mohammed Kader twice went close.

But despite a sustained spell of Togo pressure, Barnetta rifled in late on to send the World Cup debutants home.
Switzerland coach Kobi Kuhn believes his side are now in a strong position to qualify for the knock-out stages.
He said: "The 2-0 victory over Togo gives us more hope because we don't absolutely have to win our next match (against South Korea on Friday).
"The players knew that in the last minutes we needed to do everything to score another.
"It wasn't easy against Togo. They had two very strong strikers and a midfield they pulled back."
Togo coach Otto Pfister said his side could be proud of themselves, despite the defeat eliminating from World Cup progress.
"The Swiss didn't have a lot of chances. They just used their opportunities better than us," he said.
"We can't be happy but the team came here to learn and I think they put on a good show."
Togo endured a troubled World Cup debut, with a row over unpaid bonuses overshadowing their efforts.
"I think the players gave 100% effort but with the problems we've had, we couldn't play any better," said Pfister.
"We can only congratulate the Swiss team because they won deservedly."

Ukraine coach Blokhin: I'm no pumpkin!

2006-06-20T08:18:00.000+08:00

Ukraine shook off last week's defeat by Spain to thump Saudi Arabia 4-0 yesterday.
Ukraine were ahead inside four minutes when Mabrouk Zaid needlessly gave away a corner and Andriy Rusol bundled in.

Saudi keeper Zaid was also at fault when he slipped attempting to keep out Serhiy Rebrov's 35-yard piledriver.
Maxim Kalinichenko set up Andriy Shevchenko to head a third just after half-time and the roles were reversed for Kalinichenko to tap in a fourth.
Ukraine coach Oleg Blokhin likened his team's 4-0 victory to a fairytale.
"It's a little bit like Cinderella. The pumpkin turned into a beautiful coach and the other animals turned into wonderful horses," he said.
"That's what happened to us. We knew it was a decisive match for us and we turned things around."
Tunisia now stand between Ukraine and a place in the knock-out stages on their debut in the World Cup finals, but Blokhin will not be taking their Group H opponents lightly.
He added: "The future is same as before. We now need to succeed against Tunisia.
"I think our chances of going all the way are not huge because there are stronger teams but we will fight."
Striker Andriy Voronin said the victory more than made amends for the heavy defeat in their opening game.
"After the 4-0 defeat against Spain, when the way we played was embarrassing, we wanted to show we can play," he said. "We had a bit of luck as well.
"Our goal is to survive the group phase. Hopefully we'll go further and then we'll see who we're up against."
Saudi Arabia coach Marcos Paqueta praised his players afterwards: "They tried and tried the whole way. When you give all your effort, you're satisfied with what you've done.
"We will have to concentrate on the match against Spain. We will get all the players involved and take care of the speed of the Spanish team."

Arsenal target Thuram drops Juventus exit hint

2006-06-19T19:51:00.000+08:00

Lilian Thuram has dropped a big hint he won't consider playing for Juventus outside of Serie A next season.
At last night's post-match media conference after France's 1-1 draw with South Korea, Thuram was asked about his situation at Juve and replied: "Juve who?"

It's emerged that AC Milan are now considering a move for the 34 year-old defender, who is also being tracked by Arsenal and Olympique Lyon.

Barcelona make contact with Juventus fullback Zambrotta

2006-06-19T19:47:00.000+08:00

Barcelona intermediaries are in talks with Juventus fullback Gianluca Zambrotta.

While Barca sports chief Txiki Begiristain insisted last week that the capture of Chelsea striker Eidur Gudjohnsen would be their only piece of business during the summer market, it's emerged they've been sounding out Zambrotta about a move to Spain after the World Cup.
Zambrotta is committed to Juve, but won't consider staying should they be thrown out of Serie A over the Calciopoli scandal.
Real Madrid and AC Milan are also interested in Zambrotta, but Barca hope to outbid all rivals with a massive contract offer for the Italian.

Chelsea's Robben commits to Calderon ticket

2006-06-19T19:46:00.000+08:00

Real Madrid candidate Ramon Calderon has an agreement with Chelsea winger Arjen Robben should he win the presidential election next month.

AS says Calderon's football advisor, Predrag Mijatovic, has a verbal commitment from Robben and also AC Milan midfielder Kaka.
While in Germany over the weekend, Mijatovic is said to have struck terms with the agent of Robben and Kaka's father, with both players agreeing to join Real on July 3 - should Calderon be elected president.
Mijatovic was a guest of Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich at yesterday's match in Munich between Brazil and Australia. Sources say Chelsea are willing to sell Robben for ?12 million.
In Kaka's case, Real will rely on the young Brazilian to hand in his transfer request before opening talks over a fee with Milan.

Italy coach Lippi clears air with hooked Totti

2006-06-19T19:42:00.000+08:00

Italy coach Marcello Lippi has held talks with Francesco Totti about his substitution on Saturday.

Lippi hauled off Totti in the 1-1 draw with the USA after the dismissal of Daniele De Rossi for elbowing striker Brian McBride in the first-half.
After giving his players the day off on Sunday, Lippi met with Totti this morning before training to explain his decision to the Roma captain.
Azzurri team manager Gigi Riva revealed he spoke with De Rossi yesterday: "He's disheartened. He knows he made a bad mistake.
"I will not criticise him. Indeed, his words yesterday were very encouraging and importantly he recognised his error.
"De Rossi knows he has Lippi's support. It was Lippi who took care of him when he was having a tough time at Roma."
Meanwhile, FIFA have asked the Roma midfielder to explain his actions after his red card on Saturday night.

Parreira upset with Ronaldo blow-up

2006-06-19T19:41:00.000+08:00

Brazil striker Ronaldo is facing the axe after a touchline row with coach Carlos Alberto Parreira during yesterday's 2-0 win over Australia.

Ronaldo, who was treated by doctors last week after complaining of dizzy spells, was substituted 18 minutes from the end and had an angry touchline exchange with Parreira before storming off. He did not join the rest of the squad when they celebrated their victory at the end of the match.
Parreira did not talk about the row afterwards but he hinted that Ronaldo's place was in jeopardy when he talked about the contribution made by Robinho and fellow substitute Fred.
"The most important part of the game was when Robinho and Fred came on," Parreira said. "We got our speed then and succeeded in imposing our style on the match."
Before he left Parreira fielded a question from someone whose command of English was less than perfect.
"Is Ronaldo too thick?", the reporter asked. "I don't know," Parreira said. "You'll have to ask our doctor."

Michel disappointed with Drogba

2006-06-19T19:37:00.000+08:00

Ivory Coast coach Henri Michel has taken a swipe at Chelsea striker Didier Drogba for their early World Cup exit.

"It's clear Drogba was not at full capacity, not physically and not psychologically," he said. "He didn't reach his full potential here at the World Cup."
Michel said he did not mean to criticise Drogba as a player, but only point out that the Chelsea striker had struggled in the world's most high-profile football tournament - just as other star players have in the past.
"It's clear Drogba is very disappointed. There was a possibility for him to show his capabilities to the world," Michel said, noting that Michel Platini also struggled for France at times in the World Cup.
"Other great players have had the same issues at the World Cup," he said, adding that Drogba is a good captain and a good person. He will stay with the squad despite the suspension "because he's important for the team".

Jenas bust up with Spurs management

2006-06-19T19:32:00.000+08:00

Jermaine Jenas is ready to quit Tottenham after a blow-up with management.
The People says Jenas will have showdown talks when he gets back from Germany because he is puzzled about Martin Jol's plans.
Jenas feels his best chance of being a top Premiership player and an England regular is in the middle of the park and he could be tempted to go elsewhere for that reason. Agents have been bandying Jenas's name around La Liga and Serie A with - the possibility of a shock bid in the next few weeks.

Henry slams ref after flat France draw

2006-06-19T13:17:00.000+08:00

France striker Thierry Henry has blasted ref Benito Archundia after he refused to allow a goal in last night's 1-1 draw with South Korea.

The Mexican official refused to allow a 30th-minute goal from Patrick Vieira - even though the former Arsenal star's header was almost a yard over the line.
And that howler was compounded eight minutes from time when Manchester United's Park Ji Sung bundled in a late leveller to cancel out Henry's opener.
Gunners hitman Henry raged: "We did not start appealing because it was so obvious. Everyone in the ground could see it. Why he made that decision I do not know - but it was clearly in.
"The refs are pretty quick to give yellow cards for no reason but when we wanted a proper decision there was no one out there to do that.
"We talk about their goal near the end but we should've been 2-0 up - and we would've been had he got it right. I know the ball was in, you do, everyone does.
"Come on. Why he didn't give it I don't know - but, at the end of the day, it just hasn't gone our way

Bayern Munich chief slams "arrogant" England

2006-06-19T13:12:00.000+08:00

Bayern Munich general manager Uli Hoeness has blasted England over their treatment of midfielder Owen Hargreaves.

Former playmaker Hoeness, 52, rapped: "The big problem with the English people is that they are too short-sighted. They are very arrogant because they think that football begins and ends within the borders of their country.
"They believe that no one else can play good football outside of England. When I look at England's midfield formation so far in this World Cup, I think 'Thank you, Mr Eriksson' because I know they cannot work.
"How can you have Beckham, Gerrard, Lampard and Joe Cole all together?
"Everyone wants to run forward. Who will be the defensive midfielder there?
"If people had ever taken the time to watch Owen Hargreaves they would have seen he has done extremely well for Bayern and that he can do the same for England when he is given the chance to do so."

Doc admits tension between Sven, Man Utd boss Ferguson

2006-06-19T13:11:00.000+08:00

The doctor who gave Wayne Rooney the all-clear admits there is genuine tension between Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and England's Sven Goran Eriksson.
Straight-talking Scot Professor Angus Wallace is one of two docs who gave Rooney the OK to start against Sweden tomorrow.
Now he wants to forget the England striker and get back to medical work.
Wallace, 57, told The Sun: "I feel as if I have been turned into Red Adair - a trouble-shooter brought in to solve other people's problems.
"But I am a medical man and that is more important than Wayne Rooney's foot."

Celtic offered Bolton target Nakata

2006-06-19T13:09:00.000+08:00

Celtic are ready to snap up Fiorentina midfielder Hidetoshi Nakata.
Nakata spent last season on-loan at Bolton Wanderers and is keen on staying in the Premiership.
But it's emerged that Hoops boss Gordon Strachan has been offered Nakata, 28, as his one-year loan to Bolton from Fiorentina has run out.

Togo players reconsider World Cup boycott

2006-06-19T10:42:00.000+08:00

Togo players flew to Dortmund on Sunday ahead of Monday's match against Switzerland after being talked out of boycotting the game.

The continuing row over their bonuses led to a mutiny with the players refusing to travel to the match.
The squad had a crisis meeting with FIFA officials and coach Otto Pfister at their base in Bavaria and were persuaded to fly to Dortmund.
A FIFA spokesman said: "There were some problems with the team not wanting to travel and our local co-ordinator contacted them and said if they did not do so it would be a very serious matter, so they agreed to play the match."

Park keeps South Korea on course as France flounder

2006-06-19T10:39:00.000+08:00

Park Ji-sung grabbed a crucial equaliser against France to earn South Korea a 1-1 draw yesterday.
Thierry Henry gave France an early lead, latching on to Sylvain Wiltord's deflected shot to sidefoot home.
Patrick Vieira also looked to have scored, but the referee failed to give the goal, penalising Florent Malouda as he tried to force in the rebound.

But with 10 minutes to go Park Ji-sung punished some sloppy French defending.
The draw left South Korea top of Group G with four points, two ahead of France, who are in jeopardy of crashing out of the World Cup at the group stages for the second successive time.
South Korea coach Dick Advocaat admitted afterwards: "It was difficult for us, but in the second half we improved as the game went on. From one of the few chances we had we scored."
"We are very satisfied with a point," said striker Jae-Jin Cho.
Goalscorer Park added: "I'm not satisfied with myself but I'm satisfied with my team because we got a point against a very strong French team."
Korea's hard-fought approach to the game impressed France coach Raymond Domenech, who admitted his side were put out of their stride.
"They pushed and we were not able to retain the ball," he said.
"Perhaps we should have counter-attacked quicker and should have geared up and put more pressure on them, but it wasn't to be."

Brazil coach Parreira: It's normal we're struggling

2006-06-19T10:36:00.000+08:00

Five-time champions Brazil advanced to the second round of the World Cup but did not have the look of world champions as they struggled to an unconvincing 2-0 Group F win over Australia.

Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira said his side had deserved the three points without giving recognition that the Socceroos pushed them hard all the way.
"We are happy to have qualified, and it is a deserved victory," said the 63-year-old, who was coach of the 1994 World Cup winning side.
"We imposed both our style of playing, passing the ball around, and also imposed ourselves physically.
"It is true that with three Australian forwards in our half it was more complicated, and we struggled at times but overall I think there are more positives than negatives."
Parreira said he wasn't concerned that Brazil weren't firing on all cylinders.
"It is normal that we are not in top form. We only played three friendlies before the finals and we are getting better little by little.
"We played better than we did against Croatia and we will play even better in the next one (against Japan)."

Man Utd in AC Milan talks for goakeeper Dida

2006-06-19T10:28:00.000+08:00

Manchester United are in talks with AC Milan for goalkeeper Dida.
The Brazilian is moving into the final year of his current contract and is refusing to commit to a new deal.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is negotiating with Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani, with Dida set to move to Old Trafford as a replacement for Tim Howard, who joined Everton on a 12-month loan last month.

Newcastle boss seeks "five or six" signings

2006-06-19T10:18:00.000+08:00

Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder hopes to make "five or six" signings during the summer transfer window.

"We need to add to the squad," he told BBC Radio Five Live's Sportsweek programme.
"We've already lost one or two players - sadly Alan Shearer has retired, Lee Bowyer has gone to West Ham and Michael Chopra, who was a good squad player, has gone to Cardiff.
"That's three players down straight away and it wasn't a big squad in the first place.
"The chairman and I need to be busy signing quite a few players to bring us up to the number we need to have a good season. We won't be signing anybody this week but we are talking to players at the moment.
"Hopefully by the time the Intertoto comes around in July we'll have one or two more new faces. Maybe there will be five or six in total before the new season.
"It's important for the players we have that they see us bringing in new faces over the coming weeks."

AC Milan axe Baresi from Primavera job

2006-06-19T08:31:00.000+08:00

AC Milan appear to be pushing legend Franco Baresi out of the club.

Gazzetta dello Sport says Baresi has been informed in recent days he must leave his Primavera coaching job, by the club's juniors chief Paolo Taveggia.
Milan are investing more in their junior setup in preparation for UEFA's new foreigner limits. Baresi's job will be taken by his former teammate, Filippo Galli.
Galli said: "To be chosen for this job makes me happy, naturally. But I am also disappointed for Franco Baresi.
"You can always learn new things working with the juniors and I'm sure I will work closely with Franco."
Indeed, while Silvio Berlusconi remains Milan president, Baresi will have a place at the club.
Today, Taveggia insisted the switch was done in consultation with Baresi and his approval.

More Glazers join Man Utd board

2006-06-19T08:30:00.000+08:00

Malcolm Glazer has appointed three more members of his family to the board of Manchester United.

Sons Kevin, 44, Edward, 36, and daughter Darcie, who will be 38 on Thursday join as non-executive directors.
While United officials insist the move will have no affect on the day-to-day running of business at Old Trafford, the appointments could be interpreted as a sign of Glazer passing on responsibility for the club to his family.
The 78-year-old Tampa Bay Buccaneers owner is still recovering from the two strokes he suffered in April which left him with slurred speech and partial disability.
"The move reflects common practice," said a United spokesman.
"All Glazer family members are involved in all the family's business interests."

AC Milan interested in Real Madrid's Cassano

2006-06-19T08:28:00.000+08:00

AC Milan have expressed interest in Real Madrid striker Antonio Cassano.
Cassano faces an uncertain future with none of the major candidates for the Real Madrid presidency committing to keeping the ex-Roma striker around for next season.
Suffering with weight problems and for form last season, Cassano failed to win over Real fans. However, his reputation remains intact among Serie A coaches and is a prime target for Milan trainer Carlo Ancelotti.
City rivals Inter are also said to be monitoring his situation.

Plucky Japan Hold Croatia

2006-06-18T23:05:00.000+08:00

Japan and Croatia played out a goalless draw in the sweltering heat of Nuremburg to dent both team's chances of progressing to the second round.
Croatia just about shaded a hard-fought contest and had the best opening, a first half penalty, but a point apiece was a fair reflection of a tight
The game promised to a an exciting clash of two contrasting styles but it failed to live up to its billing in the early stages, with both sides setting out cautiously.
Having been beaten in their opening games both teams seemed more intent on not losing rather than looking for a victory.
Croatia, in particular, set their stall out much the same as they had done against Brazil, attempting to frustrate their opponents by sitting deep and allowing Japan the majority of possession.
After nothing in the way of goalmouth action the match sprang to life in the 21st minute when Croatia were awarded a penalty for a clumsy challenge by Tsuneyasu Miyamoto on Dado Prso.
Dario Srna was entrusted with the duty of despatching the spot-kick but he was denied by a superb save from Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi.
Although the penalty was at a nice height for a goalkeeper it was heading towards the corner until Kawaguchi's strong hand turned the ball round the post.
Croatia shrugged off the disappointment and began to exert their muscular presence onto the game.
The impressive Kranjcar rattled the crossbar with a ferocious strike from distance, while Kawaguchi was called into action again to tip Ivan Klasnic's effort wide.
The Japanese goalkeeper was a prominent figure throughout the first half, and never more so than when a routine back pass took a nasty bobble over his outstretched foot and trickled just wide.
Japan matched Croatia in terms of technique but struggled to carve open an organised defence.
The Asian side's biggest threat came from long-range shots, with Hidetoshi Nakata's thunderbolt from outside the area forcing Stipe Pletikosa into an acrobatic save.
Shunsuke Nakamura also delighted the crowd with some nice touches but Croatia remained in the ascendancy as the first half drew to a close.
Junichi Inamoto was brought on at half time to add some steel to the Japan midfield and the change seemed to be paying dividends as they created their best chance of the game.
Akira Kaji played a delightful one-two with Naohira Takahara before cutting a cross to Atsushi Yanagisawa. However, with Pletikosa stranded the striker failed to connect properly with an open goal in front of him and fired embarrassingly off target.
Croatia responded strongly but Kranjcar missed a glorious opportunity to open the scoring, shooting wide after latching onto a terrific Klasnic pass.
With the game finally becoming stretched in soaring temperatures a breakthrough looked inevitable, but a lack of quality in advanced areas was proving costly at both ends.
Japan's passing game was pleasing on the eye but lacked end product, while Croatia opted for a more direct approach, peppering Kawaguchi's area with crosses or trying to beat the offside trap.
Surprisingly there were very few clear-cut chances, although Alessandro Santos did spark some late panic in the Croatia box with a dangerous run and cross.
Croatia must now beat Australia in order to qualify for the knockout stages, while Japan will be going home unless they manage to shock Brazil.

Ukraine blame frogs for their defeat

2006-06-18T19:39:00.000+08:00

Ukraine defender Vladislav Vashchuk has blamed frogs outside the team's hotel for their dismal 4-0 reverse against Spain last week.
"Because of the frogs' croaking we hardly got a wink of sleep," explained Vashchuk. However, a spokeswoman for the team's Seminaris Seehotel base in Potsdam denied any problems.
"Obviously there are frogs in the lake. There are also birds. In the morning they wake up and start going cheep. It's logical. Are you suggesting that we should go and catch all the birds?"

Ukraine on mega bucks to bounce back

2006-06-18T16:24:00.000+08:00

Ukraine players are on big money to progress from their World Cup group.
They will share a bonus kitty of £1.6m if they make it out of their group and into the last 16, with the further incentive of another £2.5m if they get to the quarter-finals.
And if they go all the way in Germany, they will get to divvy up a cool £16m between them.
"I think you'll agree that's mind-boggling money," boasted the Ukrainian federation chief, Grigory Surkis, a day after their 4-0 reverse to Spain.

Arsenal boss Wenger to bid for Saviola

2006-06-18T16:21:00.000+08:00

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is ready to move for Barcelona striker Javier Saviola.
Despite a difficult two years at club level, Saviola has sparkled for Argentina at the World Cup and has caught the eye of Wenger - and rival Premiership clubs.
The Daily Star Sunday says Arsenal want to sign Saviola, but must fight off interest from Tottenham and Bolton.

Bayern Munich move for Villa's Mellberg

2006-06-18T16:19:00.000+08:00

Bayern Munich are chasing Aston Villa defender Olof Mellberg.
The Birmingham Mail says speculation in Mellberg's homeland suggest that the 28-year-old is on Bayern's shopping list after - in their eyes - being told by Villa that he is available for transfer.
That news would disappoint most Villa fans but not come as a complete surprise following his uneasy relationship with manager David O'Leary.

Juventus chief confirms Deschamps talks

2006-06-18T14:02:00.000+08:00

Didier Deschamps has held talks with Juventus about the club's vacant coaching job.

The 1998 World Cup winner, who is 38, met with Juventus on Friday to discuss a possible return to the club where he played between 1995 and 1998.
"We spoke with him and listened carefully to his ideas and plans," said Juve sporting director Alessio Secco.
Engulfed in a match-fixing scandal, Juve moved former coach Fabio Capello to a general manager role last month.
Deschamps has been out of work since leaving as the coach of French side Monaco in September 2005.
He took over the reins at Monaco in June 2001 and was seen as one of France's brightest coaches as he transformed the club.

Torino declare interest for Inter Milan's Recoba

2006-06-18T13:59:00.000+08:00

Promoted Torino have declared interest in Inter Milan attacker Alvaro Recoba.
"I do like Recoba a great deal, but I fear he will remain only a dream for us," said president Urbano Cairo in a radio interview.

"I do want Toro to be competitive next season in Serie A, but we must remember that it is really our first year in the top flight and we have to be prudent on the transfer market."

Everton's Van der Meyde: I'm not an alchoholic

2006-06-18T13:56:00.000+08:00

Everton winger Andy van der Meyde has hit out at rumours that his social life has hampered his Premiership career.

He is aware of the rumours that have been circulating about his social habits and he was keen to dispel them.
"I've heard what people have said about me," he told evertonfc.com. "I've heard people say that I drink a lot and that I have been going out all the time. But we are all human and we all have problems. When I was out injured things were just so difficult.
"I was frustrated with everything and I wanted to forget things. But I am not an alcoholic."

Ajax snap up Villarreal's Roger

2006-06-18T13:50:00.000+08:00

Ajax have snapped up midfielder Roger Garcia on a free transfer from Villarreal.

Roger joins the Dutch giants after they became frustrated in their attempts to bring Tottenham's Edgar Davids back to the club.
Ajax technical director Martin van Gel told the club's official website: "Roger has been signed for the first team.
"He is an experienced player and with him the new line-up of Ajax is complete."
The former Barcelona trainee has signed a one-year deal with the Amsterdam outfit where he will join up with former Nou Camp team-mate Gabri.

Italy and US ill fiery clash

2006-06-18T09:11:00.000+08:00

Ten-man Italy drew 1-1 with the nine-men of USA in a combustible, highly-entertaining Group E clash on Saturday evening.
Alberto Gilardino drew first blood for Italy in the 22nd minute, only for Christian Zaccardo to slice a clearance past Gianliugi Buffon five minutes later and level the match.
That was the end of the scoring but not the action as a spate of elbows and robust tackles produced red cards for Daniele De Rossi (28), Pablo Mastroeni (45) & Eddie Pope (47).
With USA playing virtually the whole of the second half a man down, the onus fell on Italy to find a winner but, in response to the Azzurri fashioning only sporadic opportunities, Bruce Arena's side offered stout resistance.
A draw was, perhaps, the fair result after a match of thrills and spills, although, despite Italy being disappointed with only level-pegging at the final whistle, the point will probably do more for their hopes of reaching the second round than it will USA's.
In a prelude of the indiscretions that were to follow, Francesco Totti was yellow-carded, albeit harshly, for a challenge on Clint Dempsey after just five minutes - that was as close as Italy got to the ball for the first 20 minutes of the match as an aggressive edge to the States' approach constricted time and space in midfield.
Pirlo & co, who admitted only on Thursday that they had not heard of many of their opposition, were caught out by the Americans who, roared on by a vociferous ex-patriot backing in Kaiserslautern, pressed for an opening.
Bobby Convey shot over the bar on the quarter hour and Dempsey drove wide two minutes later.
On 22 minutes, however, USA's game-plan came unstuck - and, due in no small part, to slack marking from a set-piece.
Andrea Pirlo's delivery was true enough and difficult to defend but Bruce Arena will have been asking questions of his side's defence as Gilardino was given the freedom of the area to direct a header from six yards past a helpless Kasey Keller
Just as Italy had claimed a surprise lead so USA equalised in equally unlikely fashion five minutes later as Zaccardo sliced a cross past his own keeper. It was another kamikaze cameo and more was to follow in an increasingly tempestuous match.
Less than 60 seconds later that famous Latin passion descended into a red mist and Italy imploded - De Rossi's blatant elbow on McBride seeing the midfielder dismissed in disgrace by referee Jorge Larrionda as the American left the pitch bloodied.
Marcello Lippi brought on Gennaro Gattuso for Totti and it settled the Azzurri somewhat, although Mastroeni's shot sheared the top of the net before the same player received his marching orders for a late challenge on Pirlo right on the interval whistle.
After a chaotic first half one may have expected a more cagey opening to the second period but remarkably it began in the same vein - within 90 seconds of the re-start, USA were down to nine-men after Pope was dismissed for a second bookable offence for the most ill-advised of attempted tackles on Gilardino.
To compensate for the loss of Pope, Arena introduced defender Jim Conrad for Convey, although the frenetic action continued unabated as Carlos Bocanegra rose to trouble his own goalkeeper Keller, with a header that, fortunately for the Fulham, only clipped the top of the crossbar.
Gilardino continued to probe for Italy and, with Lippi introducing Alessandro Del Piero and Vincenzo Iaquinta, their attacking threat outweighed that of their out-numbered opponents.
In the 65th minute, though, USA thought they had regained the lead through their own substitute DaMarcus Beasley, only for the strike to be chalked off for offside against McBride, who was standing in Buffon's line of view and in an offside position.
Gianluca Zambrotta surged upfield and shot just wide of Keller's left-hand upright but Italy had more concerns of their own with Simone Perrotta limping badly and Lippi having used all his subs.
Perrotta played on manfully and Italy pressed further - Keller denied Del Piero acrobatically after Pirlo dropped a superb pass through to the Juventus frontman.
However Lippi's side failed to find the avenue to a second goal and, when the dust settled, both sides were left to reflect on a point-a-piece.

The power of Ghana

2006-06-18T08:47:00.000+08:00

Ghana produced a powerful display of attacking football to dismantle a toothless Czech Republic 2-0 in Cologne, in an exciting contest which saw the Czechs have a man sent off and Ghana miss a penalty.
Asamoah Gyan gave Ghana the perfect start with his goal just after a minute, and the West Africans went on to dominate proceedings throughout the 90 minutes, in which Czech Republic's striking deficiencies, without Milan Baros and Jan Koller, were only too visible.
Gyan missed a second half penalty after Tomas Ujfalusi had been red carded, but they still continued pounding the Czech goal and only the brilliance of Petr Cech kept them at bay, until Sully Muntari finally sealed their first ever World Cup win with his late second.
Ghana were in front barely 90 seconds into the contest as they stunned the Czechs with an early strike, which followed a nervy clearance from a corner from Cech.
Stephen Appiah clipped the rebound back towards the box and Gyan controlled the ball well on his chest before slotting expertly past Cech to remarkably put the African's 1-0 up in just the second minute.
Marek Jankulovski fired wired and Pavel Nedved stung Ghana keeper Richard Kingston's hands as Karel Bruckner's men looked for a quick response.
The Czech defending always looked a bit edgy though, and Appiah was allowed to travel a long way before he sliced his shot wide.
Ghana were out-muscling their European opponents while their work-rate ensured they got amongst the Czechs, but there was also good football to go with it.
Matthew Amoah was fed into the box after a good move but his bad touch forced him to turn and, although he was still given space, he blazed well over the bar.
The lively Gyan broke through again on the half hour but this time his finish was far less convincing and he hit it right at Cech who had gone down early.
Cech was frozen to the spot when Appiah fired in a bobbling shot from outside the box minutes later, and the Chelsea man was relieved to see the ball sneak barely a foot wide of the post.
The first real move of quality from the Czechs only came two minutes before the break but Tomas Rosicky could not convert Karel Poborsky's clever pull back under pressure from Michael Essien.
Ghana countered with a great move of their own just before the interval down the right flank, but Essien's shot was blocked.
The second half nearly started the same as the first when Nedved headed the ball past Kingston within a minute of the restart, but the goal was chalked off for offside.
Gyan had a powerful shot well turned aside by Cech after a strong run, while Jaroslav Plasil's effort was tipped over by Kingston at the other end.
The game tipped even further in Ghana's favour in the 65th minute when Tomas Ujfalusi tripped Amoah inside the box, handing the African's a penalty.
Argentinian referee Horacio Elizondo hardly covered himself in glory with his handling of the situation though, as he took an age to produce the inevitable red card as Ujfalusi was clearly the last man.
To make matters worse, Gyan smashed the penalty past Cech but as the referee was not ready, he harshly booked the Ghana forward - ruling him out of the final group game.
The incident was capped off by Gyan smacking the penalty against the post when it was eventually re-taken.
With a man extra though, Ghana started to pile on the pressure and went searching for a second goal, only to be thwarted a host of times by Cech.
Amoah's 72nd-minute shot was first beaten away, while Muntari's effort just a minute later was stopped by the big keeper's legs.
Ghana were in no mood to settle for the 1-0 and their refreshing attacking instincts yielded another chance on 77 minutes for Essien, but he could not beat his club team-mate Cech.
Amoah fed Gyan on the edge of the box in yet another lightening break by Ghana, but yet again Cech was there to save his weak effort.
Ghana finally put the game to bed eight minutes before time and, as ever, Gyan was involved as he made his way into the box before supplying Muntari, who this time made no mistake in rifling high into the roof of the net.
Razak Pimpong danced through the Czech backline in the final minute before setting up Muntari for his second, but he had strayed offside and the goal was disallowed.
Kingston was called into late action in stoppage time and he produced two fine saves from Plasil and substitute Jan Polak to preserve the clean sheet Ghana had fully deserved.
The result was still a superb one for Ghana though, as they completely took apart what looked like a fine Czech side in the first game against USA, and they will now be eyeing the second round, while Czech Republic have big problems to address.

Deco rocket Portugal to glory!

2006-06-17T23:11:00.000+08:00

A sublime Deco strike and Cristiano Ronaldo penalty gave Portugal a 2-0 win over Iran and a place in the second round of a World Cup finals for the first time since 1966.
Luiz Felipe Scolari's side were well-shacked throughout by Iran, but they could do little to prevent what proved a superb game-winner Brazilian-born Deco.
Figo created space down the left before cutting inside and finding Deco who left keeper Ebrahim Mirzapour no chance of a save with a 30-yard thunderbolt in the top corner.
The game was safe late on when Luis Figo collapsed in the area from Yahya Golmohammadi's rash challenge allowing Ronaldo to emphatically finish from 12-yards out.
The win ensures Portugal have booked their place in the second round while Iran can no longer progress past the group stage after losing both games in Germany.
Iran set their stall out from the off and Portugal, who had been expected to coast home in Frankfurt, found it difficult to make an early breakthrough.
Deco had an early sight of goal within the opening minute, although his touch let him down while at the other end Javad Kazemian headed over from Mehdi Mahdavikia's free-kick.
Barcelona ace Deco was looking a threat for Portugal and only a fine right-handed save from Iran keeper Ebrahim Mirzapour ensured the shot went over the bar.
Iran were happy to sit back and hit Seleccao das Quinas on the break, although it was from set-pieces that looked their likeliest avenue for a goal.
Portugal had their hearts in their mouths when Andranik Teymourian struck the post from just inside the area, however he was correctly deemed offside.
Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo was bringing his usual box of tricks to the contest and shortly after heading wide he stuck a left-footed drive that could only find the side netting.
Iran might have found themselves down a player for Hossein Kaebi's dangerous high boot that caught Figo, but surprisingly French referee Eric Poulat kept his cards in his pocket.
Portugal finished the half in the ascendancy and only a fortune deflection off Mirazpour's elbow from Miguel's fizzed shot kept the scoreboard operator motionless.
Deco produced a carbon-copy tackle of Kaebi's karate kick immediately after the re-start and strangely enough Poulat opted to book him for his lunge on Mohammad Nosrati.
Shortly after, Pauleta, who was Portugal top scorer in qualifying, should have done better when flicking Nuno Valente's cross over the bar.
Portugal were opting for long-range effort and it looked like it might not be their day when Figo's left-footed strike was comfortably saved by Mirzapour.
However, second later they made the breakthrough from distance with Deco's first-time right-footed drive soaring into the net for what is an early contender for goal of the tournament.
Iran could have been level minutes later but after substitute Rasoul Khatibi got in on goal he could only pull his left-footed shot wide of Ricardo's far post.
Iran were threatening an unlikely equaliser, however their hopes of salvaging a point and staying in the competition died late on.
Yet another purposeful Figo run was ended by Golmohammadi in the penalty area and Poulet had no option but to award the spot-kick.
Ronaldo ensured there would be no late drama when he smashed his right-footed effort into the top corner that two keepers would have struggled to keep out.
The Manchester United winger came close to bagging his second of the game late on, but his free-kick only found the side netting.
Nekounam almost pulled one back in injury time but despite Portugal switching off from a corner he headed wide of the far post.
Ronaldo did have the ball in the back of the net with the last kick of the ball, however his close-range effort from Paulata's pass was ruled out for offside.

Owen apologised to England teammates

2006-06-17T20:44:00.000+08:00

Michael Owen has apologised to England teammates for his flat performance against Trinidad & Tobago on Thursday.

The Sun says Owen, who was hauled off for Wayne Rooney after just 57 minutes, said sorry to the rest of the players for another lacklustre display.
The Newcastle strike ace admits he is struggling for form but earlier had defiantly said: "Like everyone, I'm not firing on all cylinders - however I'm not going to change my game just to please everyone's eye."
But boss Sven Goran Eriksson has decided to stick with him for the last Group B game against Sweden on Tuesday. Instead, Peter Crouch will be the one to make way should Eriksson decide to start with Rooney.

Vieri cancels Monaco contract for Sampdoria move

2006-06-17T17:08:00.000+08:00

Christian Vieri has cancelled his contract with Monaco in order to move to Sampdoria, the same club which his father Roberto played for the in the 60's.

Vieri is set to take a massive 75% paycut, but he was adamant that he wanted to return to Italy and it was he who selected Sampdoria as his destination.
Sampdoria Director General Marotta told the Italian media that it was an opportunity to good to miss.
"It was he who wanted to come back to Italy. It was he who picked us. And when a player as good as Christian Vieri wants to wear your jersey, you don't say no."
An injury plagued 12 months cost Vieri a place in the Azzurri World Cup squad.

Torres convinced he's moving to Man Utd

2006-06-17T17:05:00.000+08:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has been given the green light to launch a £25 million bid for Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres.
The Mirror says Torres, 22, was Spain's top scorer in their qualifying campaign and has told World Cup team-mates that he will move to Old Trafford.
United had been behind Spurs and Newcastle in the queue of interested clubs but Fergie's fall-out with Ruud van Nistelrooy has led to him looking around at other strikers. Torres has two years left on his contract but Atletico want to cash in.

Liverpool to close £6M deal for Blackburn's Bellamy

2006-06-17T17:03:00.000+08:00

Liverpool are set to land Blackburn Rovers striker Craig Bellamy next week.
The Guardian says Bellamy will move for £6m after Rafael Benítez chose to activate a get-out clause for that amount, due to expire at the end of the month, in the striker's contract with Blackburn Rovers.
The striker had made it clear he would favour joining Liverpool, who will offer him an immediate return to the Champions League, and Rovers boss Mark Hughes was unable to persuade him otherwise.

Rooney furious with Ferguson

2006-06-17T16:59:00.000+08:00

Wayne Rooney is furious with his club, Manchester United, over claims they were trying to stop him from taking part in England's World Cup campaign.
The Sun says Rooney has told members of the England camp he is fuming with Manchester United for trying to delay his World Cup debut.
Rooney was left bewildered and angry by all the political red-tape before his return against Trinidad & Tobago.

A phone call from United boss Alex Ferguson to his star striker earlier in the week is also understood to have increased his frustration.
Senior figures from United and the FA also debated the issue over the phone as the Premiership giants made it clear they did not want their £30million hitman to come back too soon.
Rooney, 20, was upset when United issued a statement declaring he would NOT be fit for any of England's World Cup first- round games after breaking a metatarsal bone in his right foot in April.
England boss Sven Goran Eriksson revealed: "United came out with a statement one week ago that Rooney could be ready to play only after the first three games.
"Then it was changed and they said he could play after the first two games.
"But I am stubborn and was never willing to accept that because I thought he was match-fit for the Trinidad game.
"There was a lot of discussion on that but there was never a row with anybody in the FA for example.
"We didn't want to play him in the first game against Paraguay because he was a little bit short of training and we didn't want to risk it.
"But we were convinced he should be on the pitch in the next game and I'm very, very happy that we did that."

Adidas want Chelsea, Liverpool to tour India

2006-06-17T16:56:00.000+08:00

Adidas is said to be keen to fly English Premier League champions Chelsea or last season's Champions League winner Liverpool to Calcutta, India.

"We are now apparel sponsors of Chelsea and Liverpool and in the next two years, we could have one of these top teams playing here. There's a growing EPL fan base in the country, nowhere more so than in Calcutta," Andreas Gellner, managing director, Adidas India Marketing Pvt Ltd said.
"All big brands are now looking at alternatives to cricket in India, which is supersaturated, and what better alternative than football? We want to take the +Challenge success story forward by going to schools, tying up with existing academies or even working with the All India Football Federation," he said.

Van Basten, the saviour of Holland

2006-06-17T12:32:00.000+08:00

Dutch legend Johan Cruyff has fully endorsed the coaching exploits of Marco Van Basten, stating that the team is heading in the right direction.

Cruyff, in attendance yesterday at a Dutch press conference preceding today's clash with the Ivory Coast, was full of praise for the Dutch but also complimentary of the Italian and Spanish teams.
He said: "Van Basten has done a great job, he is making great inroads. This World Cup is a special one, and there is a promise of beautiful things to come.
"I was very impressed with Spain and Italy, both playing good attacking football. Brazil was disappointing, and also Portugal.
"Holland? I've said it before, Marco is a manager. You will see, this World Cup is a great opportunity for him and he will make the most of it."

Japan doesn't have personality!

2006-06-17T12:26:00.000+08:00

Former Japan national team manager Philippe Troussier has labelled the current outfit as a team filled with players with 'no personality'.

The Frenchman, who guided Japan in the 2002 World Cup finals on home soil, claims that by concentrating wholly on the team aspect is killing off the opportunity for individuals to grow and mature.
"They don't have players who are capable of taking control of the game and who are capable of showing initiative," said Troussier.
"These players who are based overseas need to refer to their experiences at club level to avoid this problem."

Marseille loan deal for Liverpool's Cisse

2006-06-17T12:22:00.000+08:00

Liverpool striker Djibril Cisse has agreed a loan move to Marseille next season.

Cisse is under contract with Liverpool until 2009 but was set to be sold off by Rafael Benitez before he broke his right tibia in France's World Cup warm-up match against China.
After being ruled out of action for at least five months, any move away from Anfield was deemed unlikely, but French daily L'Equipe understands the two clubs have agreed terms on a loan switch.
The 24-year-old striker has accepted a salary cut as part of the loan, the report said, adding that he has long wanted to play for Marseille.

Angola halt Mexican waves

2006-06-17T08:15:00.000+08:00

Angola belied their lowly status to claim a 0-0 draw with Mexico in Hannover.
The African minnows were beaten by Portugal in their opener and many expected a similar result on Friday, but Mexico failed to find any sort of form and Angola claimed a draw in fairly comfortable circumstances.
Mexico came into the tournament with high hopes, but they laboured to victory over Iran and now have to face Portugal knowing qualification is no longer assured.
Angola face Iran in their final game and have a real chance of reaching the knockout stages, which was unthinkable at the start of the competition.
Mexico threw down an early marker, with Carlos Salcido going agonisingly close with a dipping volley from 25 yards.
Niggly fouls disrupted the pattern of play and it was from one such foul that Mexico went desperately close to opening the scoring.
Luis Delgado's foul on Zinha allowed Rafael Marquez to try his luck from distance and his effort cannoned against the post, with keeper Joao Ricardo nowhere near the shot.
Angola took some 23 minutes to register an attempt on goal, although they were far from being overrun, but Figueiredo's strike flew high over the crossbar.
The effort breathed life into Angola and Mendonca shot wide, while Akwa headed wide from a clever free kick from Figueiredo.
Mexico, who did not look the fourth best team in the world on this display, reserved their best moment of the first half for the dying seconds as Angola keeper Joao Ricardo dashed off his line to save at the feet of Guillermo Franco.
Mexico skipper Marquez attempted to shake his side out of their slumber and a couple of rampaging runs down the right forced Angola into some desperate defending.
Angola were certainly not overawed by their North American opponents and Mendonca stung the palms of Oswaldo Sanchez with a rasping drive from 25 yards.
Franco wasted a good opening at the end of the first half and he was even more profligate on 56 minutes as he failed to capitalise on a neat flick down the middle, as Ricardo made a smothering save, while substitute Jesus Arellano scuffed the follow up effort.
The wastefulness was proving infectious in the Mexico ranks, as Omar Bravo shot poorly at Ricardo after being played in by an awful clearance from Jamba.
Mexico were in desperate need of inspiration and Angola midfielder Andre Macanga handed them a lifeline when picking up a second yellow card for a deliberate handball.
Ricardo Lavolpe's men failed to grasp the nettle as Ricardo Fonseca volleyed wide from a fine cross from Arellano.
Fonseca, who is barely on speaking terms with his coach, came close to breaking the deadlock, but his burrowing run into the box was snuffed out by a timely tackle from Kali.
Ricardo is a keeper without a club, but he could well have teams knocking on his door later in the summer as he made a superb save to push a stinging drive from Marquez round the post.
The Angola keeper almost went from hero to zero as he made a sorry attempt at claiming the resulting corner, but Bravo failed to take advantage as he bundled his shot against the post.
Mexico threw caution to the wind in the dying embers, but they could not find a route to goal as Angola held on for the most unlikely of points.

Dutch dump Ivory Coast out

2006-06-17T08:13:00.000+08:00

Holland joined Argentina in the second round of the World Cup after holding on for a 2-1 success over Ivory Coast in Stuttgart.
Superb strikes midway through the first half from Premiership duo Robin van Persie and Ruud van Nistelrooy enabled the Oranje to advance from Group C.
Bakari Kone replied with a screamer, but it was not enough to keep Ivory Coast in the tournament, although the finals debutants can at least return home with heads held high.
Holland stuck with the XI who started the win over Serbia & Montenegro and the settled nature of their team allowed the Oranje to dictate the early stages.
Mark van Bommel's teasing centre just eluded van Nistelrooy before the Dutch survived a scare in their box when Emmanuel Eboue tumbled over, perhaps too theatrically, after being held by Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
Ndri Romaric warmed Edwin van der Sar's gloves from range, while Arouna Kone latched on to an incisive Yaya Toure pass only to drill into the side-netting.
The match sprung forcefully into life midway through the half when van Persie, having won a free kick 25 yards from goal, unleashed an Exocet of a set-piece into the top corner.
Marco van Basten's men quickly added a second. Arjen Robben sped in-field, exchanged passes with van Bommel before releasing the lurking van Nistelrooy, who finished emphatically past an exposed Jean-Jacques Tizie.
At that point Ivory Coast looked likely to suffer the same fate as Serbia earlier in the afternoon, but their morale was lifted when Didier Zokora thumped a 30-yard shot against the crossbar.
Robben blotted his copybook with a yellow card for diving after falling to the ground with a certain largesse following a token challenge from Arthur Boka.
Holland had not heeded the warning about Ivory Coast's prowess from distance as the Africans scored on 38 minutes, with Bakari Kone setting off on a diagonal run before lashing a shot beyond the despairing dive of van der Sar.
Ivory Coast should have levelled before half time after a lightning break from Didier Drogba, but he failed to capitalise on a two-on-one when hitting his pass to Arouna Kone straight at van Bronckhorst.
Johnny Heitinga failed to show for the second half and was replaced by Khalid Boulahrouz, while Rafael van der Vaart was soon called upon to replace the ineffectual Wesley Sneijder.
Van der Vaart's first act was to produce an intelligent run which created space for van Nistelrooy to sting Tizie's palms with a fiercely-struck drive.
Arsenal duo Kolo Toure and Eboue both tried to get in on the act - the former firing a free kick at van der Sar and the latter seeing his shot bravely blocked by Joris Mathijsen.
Some neat interplay between the Ivory Coast attackers resulted in Arouna Kone blazing over, but the contest started to take on something of a flat nature.
Robben injected a spark back into the game when forcing Tizie to parry his shot and, after teeing up van Nistelrooy, the Manchester United striker selfishly tried to work an opening rather than lay off to van der Vaart.
Ivory Coast offered an occasional threat, as Drogba's header across goal from a corner forced Holland into some desperate defending with van Persie blocking the ball on the line and Philip Cocu hooking clear to avert the danger.
Chelsea winger Robben had been criticised for his selfishness against Serbia by van Persie, but showed his awareness late on with a cute back-heel which created the chance for van der Vaart to shoot at Tizie.
In injury time, Ivory Coast piled forward in search of an equaliser, but one was not forthcoming to leave Holland and Argentina poised for a meeting to determine who tops Group C.

6 star Argentina humble the Serbs

2006-06-16T22:56:00.000+08:00

Argentina sent a message out to all in the World Cup with a magnificent 6-0 victory over sorry Serbia & Montenegro.
A brace from Maxi Rodriguez, along with single strikes from Esteban Cambiasso, Hernan Crespo, Carlos Tevez and Lionel Messi gave the South Americans a famous win in the Arena AufSchalke.
Serbia & Montenegro were never in the match from the start and the Balkan side finished with ten men after striker Mateja Kezman was sent off for ruthless tackle in the second half.
La Albicelestes boss Jose Pekerman made one change to his side that defeated Ivory Coast in their opening Group C contest, with Lucho Gonzalez replacing Esteban Cambiasso in midfield.
Teenage star Lionel Messi started on the substitutes' bench, with the Barcelona man having recovered from an injury to his left foot.
Serbia & Montenegro coach Ilija Petkovic also made one change to his side, with winger Ognjen Koroman coming in for right back Nenad Djordjevic.
Many have tipped the current Argentina side for World Cup glory in Germany and if the first half in Gelsenkirchen was anything to go by, we could well be seeing the South Americans in Berlin on July 9.
In fact, you would have to go a long way to see a better first-half display by any side in these finals, as Argentina simply outclassed a hapless-looking Serbo-Montenegrin side.
They started confidently and showed their ability in possession of the ball from the start, with Pekerman's side taking just six minutes to open the scoring.
Some flowing football involving Rodriguez and Juan Pablo Sorin saw the Argentina captain back-heel the ball to the impressive Javier Saviola.
The Sevilla striker made a darting run into the Serbia & Montenegro box, and with Rodriguez following the move he started with a run of his own, Saviola picked out the Atletico Madrid man before he struck home right-footed with aplomb.
Serbia & Montenegro tried to replay immediately, but Predrag Djordjevic failed to trouble Argentina goalkeeper Roberto Abbondanzieri with a turn and volley off his chest from Dejan Stankovic's pass.
In fact, the Balkan side looked far less confident going forward throughout the opening 45 minutes, as they struggled to chase down their opponents when Argentina were in possession.
After Sorin mis-hit Juan Roman Riquelme's free kick in into the Serbo-Montenegrin box away for a goal kick, Gonzalez saw his day come to a brief end through injury, as Cambiasso replaced him just after the quarter hour mark.
The Internazionale man's introduction had little effect of Argentina's slick passing football, as good interplay between the substitute and Riquelme saw the Villaarreal man strike well over Jevric's crossbar from distance.
The South American's superiority became more evident and they underlined that fact with a sublime second goal made of exquisite passing football.
Again, Saviola was instrumental in the move, as he played a give and go with Riquelme before picking out Cambiasso on the edge of the Serbia & Montenegro area.
The Inter man found striker Hernan Crespo with a short pass and the Chelsea man returned the favour with a timely back-heel that Cambiasso to smash the ball into the roof of Jevric's goal.
Crespo himself remained a problem to contain for the Serbo-Montenegrin back-line and they were fortunate to get an offside call on the striker, even though the goalscorer looked onside in reaching Saviola's through ball.
Argentina, however, did not have to wait long before claiming a deserved third goal - much in thanks to some very poor Serbo-Montenegrin defending.
The ever-present Saviola did well to dispossess Mladen Krstajic near his own corner flag before eluding him and Milan Dudic in the box.
His low shot was well saved by a diving Jevric, but the rebound towards the onrushing Rodriguez, who happily scored his second goal off the post and the hapless Goran Gavrancic for a three-goal lead at the break.
With the match well under control, Argentina's urgency for more goals not as evident after the restart, with Savo Milosevic forcing a good save from Abbondanzieri in his 100th cap for Serbia & Montenegro.
The South Americans remained in control and Crespo kept searching for a goal of his own, with Jevric struggling to deal with his deflected shot moments later.
Serbia & Montenegro substitute Danijel Ljuboja was a bright light in a well-defeated side on Friday, as his cross to Kezman allowed the Atletico Madrid striker to lob the ball for Milosevic, but he failed to connect with a header on front of goal.
Argentina looked comfortable enough to take Saviola off and bring on Carlos Tevez before Serbia & Montenegro went a man down, as Kezman was foolishly red carded for a two-footed lunge on Javier Mascherano.
Crespo then had legitimate claims for a penalty when Igor Duljaj took him down in the Serbo-Montenegrin area, but Italian referee Roberto Rosetti waved away those claims.
It mattered in the end, as Argentina scored twice more before the end, with substitute Lionel Messi setting up Crespo for a simple close-range tap-in for 4-0.
Another substitute in Tevez then wrapped up the scoring with an emphatic run and finish, having eluded the challenge of Gavrancic before curling the ball past Jevric for 5-0.

Portsmouth join Spurs, Arsenal in Zokora race

2006-06-16T20:23:00.000+08:00

A host of Premiership clubs have held talks with Saint-Etienne in the last week over midfielder Didier Zokora's availability.
The Ivory Coast international has been told he will be sold this summer by Saint-Etienne, which have received approaches from Portsmouth, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham in the last seven days.
Zokora is rated at around £7 million by his French club.

Aimar agent reveals Real Zaragoza offer

2006-06-16T20:22:00.000+08:00

The agent of Valencia midfielder Pablo Aimar admits he's seeking a new club for the Argentina international.

While Valencia sports director Amadeo Carboni was insisting the club wanted to renew Aimar's contract, the player's agent, Gustavo Mascardi, revealed he was talking with Real Zaragoza about a move after the World Cup.
"It is true that we have a proposal from them. We are going to see what happens, but I can say that we like the proposal and the place," he said.

Czech ace Nedved can't commit to Juventus

2006-06-16T20:19:00.000+08:00

Pavel Nedved has dropped a major hint he will quit Juventus if they're thrown out of Serie A.
The Czech Republic international midfielder also indicated he'd be playing on after the World Cup. He said: "I do have offers from several European clubs, but at this moment my attention is turned only to the World Cup.
"I hope that for Juve everything is resolved favorably so I can continue to wear the Bianconera shirt."

Arsenal move for Juventus fullback Chiellini

2006-06-16T20:17:00.001+08:00

Juventus fullback Giorgio Chiellini is wanted by Arsenal.
The London giants have held talks with Juve this week about the availability of Chiellini, who has admitted frustration with the lack of regular first team football he's had in Turin.
Gazzetta della Sport says while Chiellini may stay with Juve should they be demoted from Serie A, Arsenal's interest is strong and the player would prefer to stay in a top-flight competition next season.

Real Madrid approach Juventus for star trio

2006-06-16T20:17:00.000+08:00

Real Madrid have made a formal approach to Juventus for three of their stars.
It's emerged today in Italy that Real agent Enzo Bronzetti has made an official inquiry to Juve for striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, midfielder Emerson and defender Fabio Cannavaro.
Real have made their move as Juve wait on the verdict for the Calciopoli investigation to be handed down.

Sevilla move for Arsenal fullback Lauren

2006-06-16T20:13:00.000+08:00

Sevilla are interested in bringing Arsenal defender Lauren back to Spain.
The Cameroon international is being lined up by Sevilla sports chief Monchi as a replacement for Daniel Alves, who is nearing a big-money move to Liverpool.
Monchi has been in regular contact with Lauren, who has a year left on his contract, since Christmas. The right-back is keen on a return to Sevilla and confident Arsenal would not stand in his way should Sevilla make concrete their interest.

USA coach Arena: No Beasley rift

2006-06-16T18:12:00.000+08:00

USA coach Bruce Arena insists there's no rift with winger DaMarcus Beasley as players questioned his tactics after the thumping by the Czech Republic.
Both Beasley and Bobby Convey were critical of Arena's approach to the match, which finished 3-0 in the Czech's favour.

"I would have to say you've got two young players commenting, and you've got an anxious press corps that wants to jump on anything they can jump on," he said at a news conference earlier this week. "I would have to say, if anything, we were over-organized. Our guys know everything they need to know going into these games.
"Our guys were thoroughly, thoroughly prepared for the game, there's no doubt in my mind about that. And they will be thoroughly prepared for the game against Italy."
Last night, however, Arena insisted: "I know it doesn't sound as exciting as you want it to be, but there's no problems with DaMarcus.
"All we did was lose a game. We lost a game, and now the challenge of every team in any kind of sport is how you come back."

T&T defender Sancho: Crouch was all over me

2006-06-16T18:08:00.000+08:00

Trinidad & Tobago defender Brett Sancho claims he was "definitely" fouled by Peter Crouch before the striker scored England's opening goal.
Crouch's header set England on the way to their 2-0 win.

Images broadcast on German television appeared to show Crouch tugging Sancho's dreadlocks before heading home David Beckham's cross.
The Gillingham man said: "The first goal was definitely a foul by Crouch. He was all over my back."
Sancho added: "We are gutted, just gutted with the result. It was really heart-wrenching. The second goal (from Steven Gerrard) came when they hit us on the break as we tried to get back - but the first one was the crucial one so late in the game and I was fouled.
"Crouch was all over me. He was definitely pulling me back and that meant I couldn't get to him.
"But don't forget, we are tiny Trinidad and Tobago and there is no way that the referee (Toru Kamikawa) was going to blow that whistle and disallow the goal."

Maradona urges Peckerman to play Messi

2006-06-16T18:06:00.000+08:00

Diego Maradona is calling on Argentina coach Jose Peckerman to play Lionel Messi today against Serbia & Montenegro.
"He's not just good, he's special," the former golden boy said, "and compared to the rest he's much faster."
But Peckerman countered last night: We're not going to have our progress determined by public opinion or the press.
"If it went badly, the only one to pay the price would be the boy. Because Messi is still only a boy."

Blackburn face competition for Roma striker Mido

2006-06-16T18:02:00.000+08:00

Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes is facing competition for Roma striker Mido.
The 23-year-old, who impressed during a loan spell with Tottenham last term, is also thought to be a target for several of Rovers' Premiership rivals, including Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle United and Aston Villa.
According to the player's agent, Mido has received a number of interesting offers from clubs in England and abroad as he ponders quitting Italy's Serie A.

Van Basten: Media fueling Robben, Van Persie row

2006-06-16T13:57:00.000+08:00

Holland coach Marco van Basten insists the row between Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie is a media beat-up.
Chelsea's Robben scored in Sunday's 1-0 win over Serbia but was accused of being selfish by Arsenal's Van Persie.

But Van Basten claimed: "The players have a lot of trust and confidence in each other to take into the Ivory Coast game.
"The relationship between Robben and Van Persie only becomes dangerous when it becomes an issue in the media.
"I have discussed the situation between them and we have mentioned it to the whole group. It is not an issue now.
"It just happened that a lot of balls were crossed in from the right to the left. Arjen Robben did very good work with the ball. Maybe the players realised that during the game.
"Arjen was feeling good and he wanted the ball more and more. It is just coincidence. Next time it could all come from Robin's side."
Van Basten backed Ruud van Nistelrooy to bounce back from a disappointing opening display against the Serbs.
He said: "Sometimes you play badly, sometimes you play well. It is nothing special. I still have total confidence in his ability."