International Football News

Аршавин “причесал” Бартеза

2006-03-13T13:11:00.000+04:00

“Зенит” в Питере теперь устроит ничья

Ох, не зря мы со страниц “МК” призывали всю футбольную Россию в ночь с четверга на пятницу затянуть вслед за питерскими фанатами речевки во славу “Зенита”. Это ли помогло, чешский ли тренер Властимил Петржела команду так здорово подготовил, “Марсель” ли оказался не в лучшем состоянии — не знаю: видимо, всего понемногу. Но — факт: “зенитчики” “причесали” команду вратаря-харизмы Бартеза на знаменитом “Велодроме” — 1:0.

И ведь могли даже крупнее выиграть! Если бы в конце игры (Аршавин к тому моменту уже полчаса, наверное, как сотворил очередной свой шедевр, закинув мячик в ворота Бартеза с угла штрафной) Трифонов угодил не в перекладину, а в сетку. Но с другой стороны... Вот спроси кто до матча Петржелу, устроит ли его минимальная победа в Марселе, — как думаете, что ответил бы чех?..
Теперь на “Петровском” 16 марта “Зенит” устроит даже ничья. Вот только сдается, теперь питерцы на ничью играть точно не будут.

Bundesliga Sunday: HSV Narrow Gap

2006-03-13T13:08:00.000+04:00

Hamburger SV closed the gap on leaders Bayern Munich with a 3-0 Bundesliga win over Kaiserslautern on Sunday.

The match, delayed for 75 minutes because snow had to be cleared from the stadium roof, featured three second-half goals from Banjamin Lauth, a Fabian Schoenheim own goal, and a Rafael van der Vaart penalty. The win puts HSV second, leapfrogging Schalke who beat Eintracht Frankfurt 2-0 earlier in the day.

Goals from Danish duo Soren Larsen (pictured) and Ebbe Sand gave the Gelsenkirchen club a comfortable win and temporarily moved Schalke second on 51 points. Werder Bremen dropped to fourth after a disastrous 3-0 home defeat to Hertha BSC on Saturday.

Bayern lead on 59 points having drawn 0-0 in Wolfsburg.

Serie A Report: Juventus Close In On Title

2006-03-13T12:23:00.000+04:00

Serie A Report: Juventus Close In On Title A goalless draw at the Delle Alpi stadium of Turin between Juventus and Milan almost certainly handed the Scudetto to the Bianconeri.

An appalling encounter with little or no scoring opportunities on a terrible pitch, saw Juventus and Milan end their match in a stalemate. A result which clearly favours the Old Lady as the Turin based club maintains its 10 point lead over the Rossoneri with 9 matches to go.

The match did not offer any form of excitement in terms of goals nor saves, but was always high in terms of tension. Milan controlled the game with Juventus trying to hit back with quick counter attacks.

The only real interesting things to note occurred in the second half when first a Nesta shot hit Emerson’s arm inside the penalty area, but the referee waved play on amidst the protests of the Milan players. Then in the 69th minute, Gennaro Gattuso received his second bookable offence of the night and left Milan in ten men after a late challenge on Pavel Nedved.

Juve preferred to control the remaining minutes and did not push too much, whereas Milan were unable to find the winning goal which would have re-opened the Scudetto race.

The Bianconeri can now start celebrating their 29th Scudetto, while Milan will hope to continue their excellent European performances.

Nuno Gomes has belief in Benfica

2006-03-13T01:00:00.000+04:00

Having eliminated holders Liverpool FC to reach the UEFA Champions League last eight, SL Benfica have it in them to go even further according to striker Nuno Gomes.

Tireless
The 29-year-old was his normal tireless self at Anfield on Wednesday, though his booking in the 2-0 win against Liverpool means he will miss the first leg of the quarter-finals. But with Benfica having secured a 3-0 aggregate triumph, Nuno Gomes was concentrating on the victory itself.

Champions out
"Liverpool were the champions, they have a good team, and we beat them - psychologically that's important for us," he said, recalling too Benfica's group-stage victims. "We also beat Manchester United [FC], so let's see if we can beat a good team again."

'Anything is possible'
Indeed, Nuno Gomes believes the underdogs from Lisbon could even follow in Liverpool's footsteps by upsetting the odds and lifting the trophy. "I think it's possible because games are won and lost on the pitch," he said. "It's eleven against eleven, anything is possible. Now we are in the quarter-finals and we will celebrate and wait for the draw."

Chances missed
It was not easy for Benfica, as Liverpool pushed the Portuguese champions deep into their own territory, hitting the post and registering nine shots in the first 25 minutes before the visitors even managed one. "In the opening minutes they missed some goals and then we scored - that's football," Nuno Gomes said. "They have a good team and they worked a lot early on but fortunately for us, they didn't score."

'Incredible' atmosphere
Benfica also had to contend with the vocal backing given to the home side at Anfield - a venue at which the Eagles had always previously lost. By the end, though, the locals were applauding Benfica's second goal. "Incredible, we love this atmosphere," Nuno Gomes said. "We appreciate that English fans, and Liverpool fans, support the team for the whole game. And we appreciated that, at the end, they also supported Benfica!"

League test
The only comparable celebration Nuno Gomes can recall for Benfica was their Portuguese Liga triumph last May, the first title of his seven-season stay at the Luz. This term they trail FC Porto by five points, and on Sunday must gather their thoughts for the visit of lowly A. Naval 1° Maio. "We are trying to catch Porto, and now we have to perform in our league because we want to finish top again," the Portuguese international said. "It will be a difficult match, we will be a little bit tired."

Porto inspiration
Yet Porto could also be an inspiration for Benfica - after all, it was they who began the trend for surprise European champions two years ago. "It was a very important victory for Porto," Nuno Gomes said. "In the Champions League the smaller teams can beat the biggest. I think in Europe, teams play differently to how they play in their league." Certainly, Benfica are performing to their peak in the UEFA Champions League.

Contenders await Paris draw

2006-03-13T00:57:00.000+04:00

With FC Internazionale Milano-AFC Ajax set to conclude next week, nine teams from six countries will be involved in Friday's draw for the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals in Paris, with the ceremony beginning from 12.00CET.

Unsuccessful defence
Another first will see the new European Champion Clubs' Cup make its maiden public appearance at the traditional handover ceremony after Liverpool FC claimed the fifth model to be cast by defeating AC Milan in last season's Istanbul showpiece. The holders' exit at the hands of SL Benfica, however, means no side has successfully defended the UEFA Champions League since the competition was revamped for the 1992/93 campaign.

Seasoned campaigners
The Portuguese champions are in the last eight for the first time since 1994/95, while Villarreal CF are enjoying a magnificent run in what is their first term in club football's greatest tournament. AC Milan, Juventus and FC Barcelona are more seasoned contestants and Olympique Lyonnais have reached this stage for three successive years. Arsenal FC, conquerors of Real Madrid CF, are England's sole representatives.

Nine triumphs
The new trophy - engraved with the names of the 50 previous winners - will be presented by Madrid's Francisco 'Paco' Gento, a member of the first team to lift the European Cup. Madrid's 4-3 victory over Stade de Reims Champagne - also in Paris, at the Parc des Princes, in 1956 - was the first of the Spanish side's nine triumphs, with Gento featuring in six. The ceremony will take place in the Salle des Fêtes at the French capital's Hôtel de Ville.

Public display
Gento will be joined on stage by Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard - two players who embrace the competition's half-century - before handing the new cup to UEFA Chief Executive Lars-Christer Olsson, who will in turn give it to the Lord Mayor of Paris, Bertrand Delanoë, for safekeeping and public display until the final at the Stade de France on 17 May - maintaining a tradition dating back to the 1997 event in Munich.

No seeds
The draws for the quarter-finals and semi-finals will be made in the host city of a final for the first time. No teams will be seeded, and sides from the same country may play each other. Mr Olsson will be assisted by this year's UEFA Champions League final ambassador, Laurent Blanc, part of the France squad that lifted the 1998 FIFA World Cup at the Stade de France and triumphed at UEFA EURO 2000™.

Milan well aware of Lyon threat

2006-03-13T00:55:00.000+04:00

The last time AC Milan visited France for a UEFA Champions League tie, they lost a group encounter 2-1 at RC Lens. However, they went on to win the 2002/03 competition, and three seasons on, must get past Olympique Lyonnais in the quarter-finals if they are to have a chance of reclaiming the trophy in Paris.

Lyon's San Siro wins
Lyon and 2004/05 runners-up Milan have never met before in UEFA competition, but the Rossoneri ought to be careful. On Lyon's two previous visits to the San Siro, to play FC Internazionale Milano in the 1997/98 UEFA Cup second round and 2002/03 UEFA Champions League group stage, they won 2-1. Meanwhile, in eight trips to France, Milan have lost five times.

'Great side'
Certainly, Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani is cautious. "Lyon are a great side," he said. "Just because they do not have a prestigious history, people can underestimate them. But their recent results are clear: they have won the French league four times in row and they are going to win again this year. Last year they were unlucky to go out in the quarter-finals against PSV [Eindhoven]. It won't be an easy game, we will have to play at our best."

President pleased
Lyon cruised past PSV 5-0 on aggregate in the first knockout round this time around, and club president Jean-Michel Aulas is happy with how the draw has worked out. He said: "It's a good draw. Playing the first leg at home is what we hoped for because Juninho [Pernambucano] is suspended for that game. We wanted him to be with us away from home. Some may complain but I'm satisfied. First because playing giants like Milan, whom we have never met, is very exciting. Then because I remember that we were told we had an easy draw for the last two years against FC Porto and PSV Eindhoven. It's also a good thing to play in Milan for our fans."

No derby
The projected semi-final opponents for the winners of this tie are SL Benfica or FC Barcelona - both teams Milan have beaten in European Champion Clubs' Cup finals - meaning there will be no rematch with Inter for their city rivals, at least until the title decider, the neighbours having met in the 2002/03 semi-finals and 2004/05 last eight, a game marred by violence. Umberto Gandini, Milan's organising director, said: "The potential derby against Internazionale can only happen in the final in Paris. It's good news." Milan will go to Lyon on Wednesday 29 March, with the return the following Tuesday.

Iberian duel for Barça and Benfica

2006-03-13T00:54:00.000+04:00

FC Barcelona and SL Benfica will meet in a mouthwatering UEFA Champions League quarter-final – a tie which is a repeat of the 1960/61 European Champion Clubs' Cup final and which sees former Barça star Ronald Koeman take his current team back to his old club.

Favourites' tag
The reigning champions of Spain and Portugal have proud European traditions, not least having lifted the famous trophy once and twice respectively. After disposing of Chelsea FC, Barcelona are many people's favourites to go all the way to the 17 May final in Paris, and Frank Rijkaard's side will get to play the second leg at the Camp Nou on 5 April after first travelling to the Estádio da Luz on 28 March.

'Great draw'
Benfica coach Koeman, who captained the Catalan outfit to European Cup glory in 1992, gave the following reaction: "It is a great draw for us, and very special for me personally because of the happy years I spent at Barcelona. I've already received phone calls from the many friends that I left there and that's nice. Barcelona have a history of success and have a very good team."

Difficult task
José Veiga, the Eagles' general manager, added: "Barcelona are one of the greatest European teams, if not the greatest. However, with just eight teams left in the competition we cannot afford to pick our opponents. It will be very difficult but sometimes things aren't as hard as they seem. I believe we can go through to the semi-finals because we have a great side."

'Passionate tie'
Barcelona goalkeeper Víctor Valdés said: "They are a proper team and they will not be easy opponents. They had a tough tie in the last round, but didn't concede a goal against Liverpool [FC] and won well at Anfield. They deserve as much respect as we do. It will be a passionate tie. You can't say they aren't a big team and they must be good because they are in the quarter-finals."

First meeting
In that 1960/61 showpiece, the Lisbon club's 3-2 victory meant they became the first side other than Real Madrid CF to win the competition, although it was Barcelona who had the pleasure of eliminating the then five-time winners in the first round. The final, played in Berne, was also the teams' very first meeting in UEFA competition.

Significant contest
It was Barça who prevailed the next, and only other, time the clubs were drawn together, in the group stage that immediately preceded the final of 1991/92 tournament. Barcelona earned a 0-0 draw in Portugal before a 2-1 home success. The four points taken from those encounters were to prove pivotal as Barcelona ultimately claimed the trophy for the first time, with a 1-0 victory against UC Sampdoria. Koeman scored the only goal in extra time.

Poor record
Benfica do not have a particularly impressive record in Spain, having played there on six occasions and won just once. That sole triumph was a 2-1 defeat of Real Betis Balompié in the 1982/83 UEFA Cup first round. In the third round of the same competition in the 1999/00 campaign, Benfica suffered their heaviest loss in UEFA competition, succumbing 7-0 at RC Celta de Vigo. Against Spanish visitors, Benfica have lost only once, however – 1-0 at the hands of Villarreal CF in this season's group stage.

Imperious form
Meanwhile, Barcelona have shown imperious form at home against Portuguese opposition. After losing their first match against guests from their neighbouring country in the 1972/73 UEFA Cup, 1-0 to FC Porto, Barça have won eight games in a row, keeping clean sheets in five of them. The Catalan side have not fared so well across the border, losing four and drawing two of their first six outings. However, they have prevailed on their last two trips to Portugal, most recently a 2-0 success at Porto in the 1999/00 European Cup second group stage.

Villarreal yet to meet their match

2006-03-13T00:48:00.000+04:00

As Villarreal CF take their place in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final draw for the first time, the overriding emotions are pride and excitement that this industrial town of less than 50,000 inhabitants has achieved such a feat.

Villarreal relieved
However, the feeling in the immediate aftermath of the 1-1 draw against Rangers FC which propelled the 'Yellow Submarine' into the last eight was less euphoric. As Alessio Tacchinardi, already a UEFA Champions League winner with Juventus, sank to his knees after the whistle, the relief was all-consuming.

Self-inflicted wounds
"We knew Rangers were going to be difficult opponents, but we didn't anticipate how difficult we were going to make things for ourselves," admitted Rodolfo Arruabarrena. "We played pretty poorly in the first half, making mistakes and conceding possession. We gave ourselves a good old fright."

Last eight
The Argentinian full-back's goal at the start of the second half cancelled out Peter Løvenkrands's early opener for Rangers and, ultimately, sent Villarreal into today's draw in Paris along with FC Barcelona, Arsenal FC, Juventus, AC Milan, Olympique Lyonnais, SL Benfica, FC Internazionale Milano and AFC Ajax.

Crucial goal
"Without doubt, it was the most important goal of my career," said Arruabarrena. "I once scored for [CA] Boca Juniors in the final of the Copa Libertadores, but this goal saved us and made history for the club and the town. In retrospect, it doesn't really matter that we didn't play well. The fact we went through is enough for all of us."

None better
Coach Manuel Pellegrini has steered this small but ambitious Primera División outfit beyond most people's expectations. "So far we haven't been beaten in the UEFA Champions League, so until somebody proves otherwise, my view is that there isn't a better team in the competition," Pellegrini said.

Arsenal, please
Uruguayan goalkeeper Sebastián Viera, whose first-half save from Løvenkrands kept Villarreal in Tuesday's tie, is hoping the draw will send his side to London, having been poised to move to Arsenal FC last summer. "I'd like to be paired with Arsenal - that would be the biggest moment of my life," he said. "From now on every game in this competition will be like a final - that's how big it is for us."

Vieira makes Arsenal return

2006-03-13T00:45:00.001+04:00

If Arsenal FC are to progress to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for the first time, they must do it at the expense of former captain Patrick Vieira after the English club were paired with Juventus in the quarter-final draw.

Irreplaceable component
The decision to sell their French talisman to the Italian champions last summer mystified many Arsenal supporters, and their team's struggles in domestic football in the first six months of the season appeared to bear out the fact that Vieira was an irreplaceable component of the side - both on the pitch and in the dressing-room.

Perfect stage
Now he has the perfect stage to show just what Arsenal are missing when the clubs meet at Highbury on 28 March with the return in Turin on 5 April. It is the first time Arsenal have faced Serie A opposition in the knockout rounds of the UEFA Champions League while Juventus will be looking to avoid a similar outcome to last term when they went out to another Premiership team, Liverpool FC, at this stage.

Vieira reaction
Vieira said: "At times destiny serves up some surprises. Obviously, for me, it will be a special match, seeing that I'll be returning to Highbury as part of the opposing team. But beyond that I'll be thinking only of winning."

'Enthralling match'
Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein greeted the draw by saying: "They don't come more glamorous than that, do they? We thought Real Madrid [CF] was something special and this looks to be a very enthralling match. It will be nice to see Patrick back at Highbury. We will be up for it and I think he will get a very warm reception. He had nine great years with us."

'Extremely tough'
Antonio Giraudo, Juventus chief executive officer, said: "At this stage of the competition all the matches are extremely tough. We are really happy to have reached the quarter-finals and we hope to get through."

'Fascinating match'
The club's commercial director, Romy Gay, added: "We know how strong Arsenal are. They performed very well against Real Madrid in both legs and this will be a fascinating match. We didn't want to play Italian sides and we are satisfied to have avoided that."

Henry's former foes
The tie will also bring back memories for Arsenal striker Thierry Henry, who before arriving in north London in the summer of 1999, spent an unhappy seven months with Juve following his switch from AS Monaco FC.

Good record
For Arsène Wenger's young side, it is another clash with former UEFA Champions League winners after they dismissed Madrid in the first knockout round. But they will be boosted by their record on the previous four occasions they have tackled Italian teams in the competition: paired in the same group as Italian opposition, Arsenal's aggregate scores in the four meetings proved superior every time.

Upper hand
The clubs last faced off in the 2001/02 second group stage when Arsenal recorded a 3-1 home victory with Juventus winning 1-0 in the Stadio Delle Alpi. Their only other encounter in UEFA competition came in the 1979/80 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup when Arsenal progressed thanks to a 1-0 away success after a 1-1 draw at Highbury.

Improvement needed
Juventus, last-16 conquerors of Werder Bremen, will be seeking to improve on their last two appearances against English sides. Before last season's defeat by Liverpool – a 2-1 reverse at Anfield followed by a 0-0 home draw - they had taken on Manchester United FC in the 2002/03 second group stage and lost home and away

Inter send timely warning to Ajax

2006-03-13T00:37:00.000+04:00

Adriano was on target to put FC Internazionale Milano in high spirits before the UEFA Champions League return against AFC Ajax, who also showed reasons for optimism at home despite being held.

FC Internazionale Milano 1-0 UC Sampdoria

Inter kept pace with city rivals AC Milan in the pursuit for Italy's second UEFA Champions League berth after Adriano scored the only goal of the game against UC Sampdoria on Saturday. Back from suspension, the Brazil striker ended a barren spell of eleven games without a goal, heading in Luís Figo's pinpoint cross five minutes before half-time at the San Siro. Inter controlled the game thereafter, with Adriano and Alvaro Recoba both being denied by the woodwork as the side made light of the absence of Marco Materazzi and Javier Zanetti due to bans.

Left-back Giuseppe Favalli also missed out with a thigh injury, while Juan Sebastián Verón returned after a month on the sidelines, although coach Roberto Mancini admitted the Argentinian midfielder took time to adjust. "We were in trouble during the first 15 minutes, probably because it was Verón's first game back. But we needed a great performance from the whole team in order to win because Sampdoria are a strong side. Thankfully, Adriano performed really well - he must keep it up."

AFC Ajax 0-0 PSV Eindhoven

Ajax saw their sequence of five consecutive Eredivisie victories come to an end at the Amsterdam ArenA on Saturday, but coach Danny Blind can take heart after they pushed league leaders PSV all the way. The visitors had goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes to thank after making several fine stops, as Steven Pienaar, Markus Rosenberg and Juanfran each failed to capitalise on fine opportunities. PSV also had their chances, with Timmy Simons coming closest with an effort that cannoned back off the post.

"We played good attacking football in the second half and created a few chances, but the ball just didn't want to go in," said Klaas Jan Huntelaar, whose own run of scoring in each of Ajax's last five games was also ended. "We weren't too distracted by the Inter match, but there's certainly more at stake there." Ajax earned the point despite over half a dozen absentees: Zdenĕk Grygera (calf), John Heitinga (bruised kidney), Nicolae Mitea and Kenneth Vermeer (both knee), Wesley Sneijder (hamstring), Tomáš Galásek and Edgar Manucharyan (both thigh) all missed out.

Gerrard Gaffe Gifts Arsenal Victory

2006-03-13T00:19:00.000+04:00

A disastrous backpass from Liverpool FC captain Steven Gerrard handed Arsenal FC maximum points at Highbury. With six minutes remaining, Gerrard passed the ball straight to Thierry Henry, who rounded goalkeeper José Manuel Reina and slotted his second goal to seal a 2-1 win.

Arsenal dominance
It was just reward for Arsenal, who had dominated throughout and went ahead through Henry, before Luis García snatched an unlikely equaliser on 75 minutes. Liverpool finished the game with ten men, after Xabi Alonso was sent off for a second bookable offence.

Precise finish
After scoring the decisive goal in the Gunners' UEFA Champions League tie against Real Madrid CF, Henry was on the scoresheet again in the 21st minute. The precocious 18-year-old, Cesc Fabregas, weighted a perfect through ball to the Frenchman, who cut in from the left side, opened his body and sent a powerful side-footed finish into the far corner.

García equaliser
Despite their domination and exuberance, Arsenal failed to add a second, with Abebayor and Henry both missing chances to put the result beyond doubt. They were punished for their profligacy when García followed up after Jens Lehmann could only parry a long-range Gerrard effort. But the England midfielder's brainstorm handed the London side a reprieve, and allowed them to move within two points of Tottenham Hotspur FC in fourth place, while Liverpool stay third.

Rooney double
Two goals in the first twelve minutes from Wayne Rooney saw Manchester United FC ease to a 2-0 Premiership win against Newcastle United FC at Old Trafford. The England striker opened the scoring with a deft lob on eight minutes, before doubling the lead shortly afterwards. He could have completed his hat-trick in the second half after rounding Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given, but his shot hit the post.

Middlesbrough undone
An under-strength Middlesbrough FC fell 2-1 to Charlton Athletic FC at The Valley, with all three goals coming in the last 20 minutes. Manager Steve McClaren made nine changes to the side that started Thursday's UEFA Cup match against AS Roma, and the visitors fell behind to a Darren Bent header on 73 minutes. Mark Viduka levelled ten minutes from time, but there was still time for Bent to claim the points for Charlton from close range.

Madrid pay the penalty for late miss

2006-03-13T00:12:00.000+04:00

Brazil striker Ronaldo missed a last-minute penalty which would have moved Real Madrid CF three points clear of Valencia CF in second place in the Primera División. Instead the visitors were forced to settle for a point at the Mestalla, meaning they drop to third.

Keeper saves day
Ronaldo, who returned to the side for the midweek UEFA Champions League exit against Arsenal FC, found himself dropped to the bench again in a match billed as an encounter decide who finishes runners-up to FC Barcelona in Spain. He came on as a substitute towards the end, and earned a penalty late on after being tripped by Santiago Cañizares.

Valencia climb
But Ronaldo's side-footed effort was tame and the Valencia goalkeeper atoned for his error with a comfortable save. The result leaves the sides locked on 52 points, nine behind leaders Barça, though Valencia leapfrog Real into the second automatic UEFA Champions League spot by virtue of their 2-1 win at the Santiago Bernabéu earlier in the season.

Celta curtailed
Fifth-placed RC Celta de Vigo saw their bid for a European place suffer a setback in Barcelona as ten-man RCD Espanyol won 2-0. Raúl Tamudo broke the deadlock from close range but the home team's hopes looked limited when Armando Sá was sent off on 27 minutes. But Frédson doubled the advantage from long range and that proved enough to secure victory.

Real Sociedad boost
Gaizka Garitano's goal two minutes after the break was enough to earn Real Sociedad de Fútbol three points at RC Deportivo La Coruña, a result which sees them climb to 14th to ease their relegation fears.

Arsenal have home work to do

2006-03-13T00:01:00.000+04:00

Brilliant one day, off the pace the next. Arsenal FC's season has been hard to endure for supporters grown accustomed to consistently high standards. Arsenal have yet to win back-to-back games this year and as they welcome Liverpool FC on Sunday, they are in danger of missing out on a place in the UEFA Champions League for the first time since 1998/99. That north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur FC hold the coveted fourth spot makes the situation all the more difficult to stomach.

European nights
Arsène Wenger's young side were given a standing ovation after eliminating Real Madrid CF from the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday. Another daunting test lies in wait on Sunday when Arsenal cannot afford to drop further points if they are to return to the competition come August. Like Liverpool last term, European nights appear to offer welcome respite from a tough domestic campaign. Partly by design, partly by default, Wenger has had to rely on youth this season, and it seems the European game is more to his youngsters' liking.

'Suffered'
"We're maybe not so physically strong," said midfielder Fredrik Ljungberg. "It doesn't really matter in the Champions League but maybe in the Premiership we have suffered a little bit for it, but I think in Europe we look really sharp. Unfortunately, we have not been able to cope with the physical side and we have suffered from that. In Europe we have been allowed to play more football."

'Great to celebrate'
That was in evidence on Wednesday as Arsenal defended resolutely and attacked with verve, playing with a freedom and confidence so often missing in the Premiership. But as Fulham FC discovered last Saturday, Wenger's tyros are beginning to find their feet in England as well. Arsenal won 4-0 at Craven Cottage and could have scored more. With such a strong performance to build on, Ljungberg is hoping this positive vibe becomes the norm. "It feels good to be able to celebrate about something," he said after seeing off Madrid's challenge. "It has been a hard season, we've lost a lot so there have been some downs, but it feels really good to celebrate now."

Liverpool deflated
Liverpool, in contrast, arrive at Highbury deflated, desperate to put Wednesday's defeat by SL Benfica behind them. While Arsenal's fledgling defence has grown in stature, Liverpool's attack has wilted. A single goal separated the sides when they met last month, but that victory is a distant memory for a Liverpool team that has lost the art of scoring. The drought Peter Crouch, Fernando Morientes, Djibril Cissé and Robbie Fowler are suffering is put down to a loss of confidence, a draining of self-belief. The same might have been said of Arsenal earlier this year, now nothing could be further from the truth.

'Real atmosphere'
"This group is beginning to create a real atmosphere," midfielder Mathieu Flamini said. "I believe that is essential for a big team. There is a real team spirit being created, and you see that on the pitch. There is a lot of communication, we really work for each other, more and more, and that makes the difference at the end of the match." As confidence grows, so too the belief that Tottenham can be caught, and that unlike Liverpool last term, Arsenal won't have to win the UEFA Champions League to earn the right to play in it again. Consistency will be key, and in this mood, Arsenal may have finally hit their stride.

by Michael Harrold from London

Fan v Fan: Arsenal-Liverpool

2006-03-12T23:00:00.000+04:00

It's still one of the biggest fixtures in the English calendart and will be given added piquancy following both clubs' midweek Champions League exertions, which saw Liverpool relinquish their crown by losing to Benfica, while Arsenal overcame Real Madrid. The Gunners lost 1-0 at Anfield on Valentine's Day, though that may be an unreliable pointer to Sunday's game. Both clubs still have important goals to achieve in the Premiership: Liverpool to claim he second automatic Champions League qualifying place, Arsenal to finish fourth and qualify. I asked Arsenal fan Tony Liddle and Liverpool fan Seye Olufunwa for their views ahead of the Highbury showdown...

Me: First of all, how do you feel about your side’s season so far? Have you been delighted or dismayed by it?
TONY (AFC): It’s been both disappointing and encouraging. Compared with any of the last nine seasons (since Arsene Wenger took over) this has been by far our worst in the Premiership, Seventh going into this game in mid-March is a blow considering we’ve finished first or second in every one of Wenger’s previous full seasons. And going out early in the domestic Cups was also bad news. But the Champions League campaign has been excellent so far, and the most encouraging thing has been the way some of the younger players have developed. Wenger is building a new team for the future and while this season has been frustrating the longer term outlook is very positive.
SEYE (LFC): I don’t know what to say, supporting Liverpool seems to be like a rollercoaster ride, my emotions are constantly at unease. Knocked out by Benfica from the Champions league seems unbelievable, for them to beat us 2 -0 at Anfield, a feat which Chelsea, Juventus, Leverkusen and Betis have all failed to do in the Champions League. In fact the last team to defeat us at Anfield in the Champions League (not qualifying rounds) was Rafa’s Valencia. What a clearly amazing feat but the lack of ability to hit the net seems astonishing, the strikers have received a lot of blame but in that match the whole team was hapless even going back to Carragher who had three great chances. So my feelings for this season are a bit negative as we can only achieve a higher position in the league than we did last year. With morale low the FA Cup seems out of our reach especially with the output of goals. Rafa’s continued faith in the hapless Morientes who has been a flop and never gambles in front of goal, always expecting the perfect lay off for him to finish off the move. This ain't Real Madrid, wake up!! Cisse is criticised yet he has been playing on right wing and yes he is erratic but nonetheless he is more threatening than Morientes. Fowler is nothing more than a sub for me, he can never be fit unless he trains for months on end, it’s a shame to see a hero like him in his current state. This season can only be repaired by coming second and winning the FA Cup. Otherwise last season will be better than this one for me even though that may seem ludicrous to some.

Me: Tactically, where do you think this match may be won or lost?
TONY (AFC): The stock answer is midfield and that will clearly have a bearing, but ultimately it’s goals that win matches. Both Liverpool and ourselves have missed more chances than we’ve converted lately, so the sharpness of the strikers on Sunday will be decisive.
SEYE (LFC): Well it's simple : in attack. If we don’t score we won't win, and the goal threat needs to come from the front line. I hope Cisse plays up top with Crouch and Fowler on the bench, Morientes needs to be touted to potential buyers. Whether we can handle Henry will also be telling, Henry in the form he is in will cause us problems especially if the useless Traore starts.

Me: Which opposition player do you consider to be the greatest threat to your team in this clash?
TONY (AFC): Steven Gerrard is always a threat to any opposition, an excellent midfielder who does the lot. But we’ve learned to our cost in the last two Anfield meetings that Xabi Alonso and Luis Garcia can hurt you.
SEYE (LFC): Clearly Henry, the guy is magnificent. How Liverpool could do with him or even our Michael Owen back. We’ve always been known for having great strikers, what has happened to us of late? If Henry is on form on the night and the Reds are still missing Hyypia, it could be problematic.

Me: Would you want him in your team?
TONY (AFC): Fans of most teams would welcome Gerrard with open arms. As for the two Spanish guys, we have a lot of talent and/or potential in those positions so I’d give the existing guys a chance to shine rather than bring in Alonso or Garcia just yet.
SEYE (LFC): Henry would walk into our side, how we could do with a player like that, the guy is out of this world and for me is the best striker in Europe. The guy should be only second to Ronaldinho in the awards for top players.

Me: Who from your team should we keep a particular eye on here?
TONY (AFC): Henry is the obvious choice but Hleb has looked a real player in a five-man midfield, with great close control, while Cesc Fabregas is just getting better and more influential which, for an 18-year-old, is phenomenal.
SEYE (LFC): I don’t know to be honest. With morale down it will be interesting to see which player steps up, I would say Gerrard as he is the captain but it would be nice to see another player step up and take responsibility. It's about time the team stopped relying on Stevie for inspiration and goals.

Me: What are your side’s greatest strengths?
TONY (AFC): Considering the disruption caused by injuries this season, and the results that have gone against the team, I think there is a strong bond developing in the squad which will be even more important next season. Also, of course, Arsenal are still capable of dazzling attacking football at speed.
SEYE (LFC): Defensively we are good and we are solid in central midfield. That has seen as through a lot of matches but it has only plastered over the crack which has become open to public scrutiny of late. No strikers and no right midfielder!

Me: And weaknesses?
TONY (AFC): The obvious weakness this season, especially away from home, has been that teams have been able to bully and out-muscle us. And attempting to stiffen midfield to cope with that has left Henry too often isolated up-front, forcing him to track back. If we get sucked in to a narrow game the inter-passing becomes over-elaborate. We play best with a bit of width and, of course, a lot of pace.
SEYE (LFC): As I said, no strikers who can score and no right midfielder who can get down the flank and get the balls in. How long have us Reds been waiting for wingers at Anfield and how long will we have to continue to wait? We were told we would sign players who would get us fans off our seats. I am still sitting down I must say.

Me: What do your lot typically think of their lot?
TONY (AFC): He may not have it quite right yet, Liverpool under Benitez are a success story waiting to happen, which sounds a bit odd seeing as they won the European Cup last season. But they won’t have made it until they win the Premiership, then win it again, because that’s the Anfield tradition. We didn’t like them overmuch in the 1970s and 1980s when they won everything in sight, but that animosity, based on envy, has largely subsided. I think now we see them as one of the clubs best-placed to challenge Chelsea, along with ourselves.
SEYE (LFC): Liverpool and Arsenal have a lot of respect for each and, on a personal level, I like Arsenal - they play good football and are a joy to watch, and they share in our hatred of Man U and a personal one of mine in Spurs

Me: What single thing irritates you most about them?
TONY (AFC): Their monotonous winning of trophies used to irritate me intensely. These days nothing much upsets me about Liverpool, apart from late goals they score against us (Owen 01 – twice – Heskey 03, Mellor 04, Garcia 06).
SEYE (LFC): I guess the fact that the fans have been spoilt with great football and when the team is down they are much less supportive, Highbury has often been described as a museum for its lack of atmosphere though the stands are really close to the field of play.

Me: And what do you grudgingly admire?
TONY (AFC): You have to respect a club that’s won more League titles and European Cups than any other English club, even if it hurts. And you can’t help admiring what Bill Shankly created for others to carry on.
SEYE (LFC): They have Thierry Henry who is just a genius and a fantastic player, they are also moving to a new stadium, something which Liverpool have to sort out if they are to compete with Chelsea and Man U. I love Anfield but Liverpool have to look to the future and find funding for their stadium. The lack of money to spend is correlated to the revenue. This will only be increased through success which warrants investment or higher attendances. A new stadium would see an extra 15,000 seats.

Me: Who is your all-time number one hate figure (or object of amusement) from their lot?
TONY (AFC): Steve McMahon’s famous “One minute!” rallying call to his team-mates near the end of THAT game at Anfield in 89, just before Mickey Thomas scored our second, championship-clinching goal, made McMahon an instant anti-hero for Gooners and a target for much ridicule.
SEYE (LFC): I don’t know to be honest never really ever hated anyone from Arsenal. I was never a massive fan of Keown I guess.

Me: What’s the best bit of business ever done between the two clubs?
TONY (AFC): For them probably buying Ray Kennedy and converting him from OK striker to top midfielder. For us, probably not buying Jimmy Carter. For neither club, the transfer of Mickey Thomas. He was never as good for them and we missed him.
SEYE (LFC): Probably Michael Thomas mainly because he is the only player I can think off. Her served Liverpool really well and is thought of fondly at Anfield.

Me: What’s your fondest memory of past clashes against them?
TONY (AFC): Nothing can ever surpass the glory of May 26th 1989, probably the most exciting climax to any League season in history. A last-minute goal that denied Liverpool the double and, more importantly, gave us the title. More recently, Henry’s hat-trick at Easter 2004 that hauled us back into the match from 1-2 down (we won 4-2), preserved our unbeaten record and re-ignited our championship surge after two miserable cup defeats earlier that week had threatened to unravel our season.
SEYE (LFC): There have been so many but the one of late was the Reds' four-nil destruction of the Gooners at Anfield in which Gerrard, Owen, Barmby and Fowler all scored. There were also the ones with Robbie’s hatricks in of course.

Me: What do you think the score of this match will be, and how will it affect your week?
TONY (AFC): As ever, it’s a game crucial to both teams; after Saturday’s results, when Blackburn and Bolton overtook us, we simply have to win to close h gap on Spurs and get back to fifth. We lost at Anfield last month but never really turned up, apart from Lehmann. We won’t be that lacklustre this time, and will really be going for it. I think the Gunners will win, maybe 2-1, and it will give real meaning to my existence for another week!
SEYE (LFC): I feel really done at the moment and usually I am not a pessimist but I can’t see Liverpool in the form they are in taking anything from this game with the morale low and the goal output lacking. The high Arsenal are on to me will inspire them to victory over my beloved Reds. Though we will battle hard it will probably de déjà vu like the games at Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge. I will be upset but I still haven't recovered from the exit of the Champions League the disappointment of the players so easily relinquishing the title they battled so hard to win to be thoroughly beaten 3 – 0 on aggregate.

Paulistão Match Preview (Rd.14): Guarani - Santos

2006-03-12T22:58:00.000+04:00

The last weekend saw Santos break free after Wanderley Luxemburgo guided his men to – yet another – wafer-thin win over Emerson Leão’s Palmeiras. With all the classic derbies out of the way, the Peixe face an apparently easy run towards a São Paulo state trophy they haven’t landed since 1984.

Guarani, at their Brinco de Ouro redoubt in Campinas, are the next obstacle in the way of Luxa’s second title in a row for the Vila Belmiro club. The ‘Bugre’ are struggling, finding themselves in the relegation zone and in danger to depressing the already blue fans who saw the historical team relegated in the national championship last year.

According to veteran Santos striker Reinaldo the pressure now will be relentless – particularly given the fact that the Peixe are theoretically superior to the next five rivals. “The pressure has gone up, it’s true. Everybody expects us to win these games easily, but it’s not so simple. We respect all our adversaries and we mustn’t forget that Palmeiras, São Paulo and even Corinthians are still in the running, so we’ve got to play our best game.”

Santos will probably continue to field the 3-5-2 that Luxemburgo has adapted with great success over the past few rounds of the state competition. The major change will be the return of Reinaldo to the first eleven, pushing Rodrigo Tabata back into midfield.
Guarani are still hopeful of saving themselves, now helmed by Toninho Cerezo, back from Japan and given the mission of saving the Bugre from the jaws of relegation. Morale was boosted by the win over Estrela do Norte in the midweek Copa do Brasil clash, and the only potential absence is Bilu, suffering from nagging thigh pains.

Venue: Brinco de Ouro stadium, Campinas.
Kick Off: 18:10
Referee: Rodrigo Guarizo Ferreira do Amaral.
Linesmen: Marinaldo Silverio and Danilo Ricardo Simon Manis.

Probable Starting Elevens

Guarani (4-4-2): Fernando; Nelsinho, Emerson, Rogério and Adílio; Goeber, Rodrigo Sá, Juca and Bilu (Élvis); Edmílson and Adeílson.
Coach: Toninho Cerezo

Santos (3-5-2): Fábio Costa; Manzur, Ronaldo and Luiz Alberto; Fabinho, Maldonado, Cléber Santana, Magnum (Léo Lima or Reinaldo) and Kléber; Rodrigo Tabata and Geílson
Coach: Wanderley Luxemburgo

Weekend Bundesliga Reaction

2006-03-12T22:56:00.000+04:00

Bayern Munich’s miserable week concluded on Saturday with a 0-0 draw in Wolfsburg. The only saving grace was the defeat of Werder Bremen. Brian A. O’Driscoll takes his usual look at the weekend’s wit and waffle.

Spieltag. 25 Reaction

After a hectic week of criticism – mostly justified – Felix Magath was relatively pleased with his team’s response in the Autostadt. “I would say the team has reacted well,” he said. “We totally dominated Wolfsburg for 90 minutes, but we just didn't have it in us to score. It didn't really wok out up front, Paolo Guerrero and Claudio Pizarro hardly had a sniff of goal."

Skipper Oliver Kahn added: "The game on Saturday is always tough after you've played on Wednesday in Europe. We've suffered a bad setback, and we need to come to terms with that first. Bremen haven't managed it, they've lost 3-0. We totally controlled the game for 90 minutes, from start to finish. We've just been unable to score. To a certain extent, our luck's deserted us, but it's what you'd expect at this stage."

Chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge continued the mood: "We've reacted positively to Wednesday's defeat. We probably deserved to win, but it didn't work out that way."

Wolfsburg saw the point as a bonus. Goalkpeer Simon Jentzsch told the press: "The point will boost our morale. Bayern were aggressive and wanted to make amends for Wednesday. We tried to stop them playing, because we knew what we were up against. It wasn't a great game for the crowd. We had a couple of chances in the first half, but we failed to put them away. It was obvious Bayern were going to control the match."

Striker Mike Hanke added: "We had it tough all afternoon against their defence. Rick Hoogendorp and I had a chance apiece in the first half. If we'd scored then, we might have gone on to win it. But I reckon we can be satisfied with the point."

Former Bayern star Klaus Augenthaler, now the coach of Wolfsburg, was satisfied: "Although we wanted to win the game we can live with a point. My team played well tactically, so the result ist he right one. Every point you manage to take against such opposition must be regarded as a bonus point."

Meanwhile in Bremen, Werder’s midweek calamity took its toll as Hertha Berlin – on a winless streak that has put coach Falko Götz’s job in jeopardy – won 3-0.

Thomas Schaaf thought his side was impotent : "We never managed to find our way into the game and we were far too harmless. We never showed the necessary level of aggression at any time during the game, so that is why we deserved to lose the game."

Falko Götz was understandably relieved: "This time, we were able to put our game concept into practice perfectly. We took our chances well during the second half. I never lost faith in my team. If we can recover some of our looseness again we can reach the UEFA Cup places."

Prem Wrap: United Move Clear In Race For Second

2006-03-12T22:55:00.000+04:00

A first-half brace from Wayne Rooney was enough for Manchester United to beat Newcastle United 2-0 and move five points ahead of second placed Liverpool, who were beaten 2-1 at Arsenal after a late mistake from Steven Gerrard.

Rooney's two goals, both expertly taken, killed off what was already a weak challenge from Newcastle, who tasted defeat for the first time since Graeme Souness's sacking in January.

Later in the afternoon Liverpool were deservedly beaten by Arsenal, but came close to earning themselves a point as Luis Garcia cancelled out Thiery Henry's superb first half opener. However, Xabi Alonso was then sent-off and with five minutes left Gerrard gifted the ball to Henry, who made no mistake.

In the final game of the day Charlton beat Middlesbrough 2-1 at the Valley.

Manchester United 2 Newcastle United 0

The first game of a day was never really a contest as Sir Alex Ferguson's side produced some a masterclass performance, spearheaded by Rooney. The deadlock was broken on eight minutes when Rooney latched onto an awful backpass from Peter Ramage and lofted a fine chip over the head of Shay Given. The 20-year-old scored again just four minutes later with a clinical finish from the edge of the box. Newcastle never looked likely to getting back into the game and United have the luxury of being able to miss chances from Luis Saha in the first half and Cristiano Ronaldo after the break. Rooney was denied a hat-trick by the post after he had rounded Given.

Arsenal 2 Liverpool 1

The Gunners' return to form continued with an impressive performance against third placed Liverpool. However, the game was kept alive as Arsenal did what they so often do and failed to take their chances and wrap up victory. Henry opened the scoring on 23 minutes with an excellent curling shot past Jose Reina and the Frenchman really was onsong as he controlled the match from start to finish. Peter Crouch wasted a rare chance for Liverpool in the first half with a poor header, but he wasn't made to pay initially as chances went begging at the other end. With 15 minutes left Arsenal were stunned as their lead was wiped out by Garcia, who headed the ball home after Jens Lehmann only managed to parry Gerrard's serving shot. Liverpool then looked like a dangerous team and Lehmann had to save well from Garcia, but the initiative returned to the home side when Alonso was sent off for a second yellow card with seven minutes left. It then went from bad to worse as Liverpool shot themselves in the foot as Gerrard inexplicably passed the ball into Henry's path and the striker made no mistake in rounding Reina before scoring to send Highbury crazy. The win leaves Arsenal just two points behind fourth placed Tottenham.

Barcelona–Chelsea: A Perspective

2006-03-12T22:49:00.001+04:00

It was a brave display from both sides, but for all that happened, and all that could have happened, the fact of the matter is, one went through, and the other needs to move on.

It wasn't the best Barcelona, but it was clear for all to see, that it was a side that had learned the hard way. One that was hurting, deep down, one that would have given up all its flair to get through.

Most of all, it was Rijkaard who realised, in part due to Mourinho, that unfolding some beautiful football, going hammer and tongs at the opposition, could earn him some acclaim, or even sympathy, but seldom the tie over two legs.

It is arguable whether football was better or worse for it, but then, in a world where results count, and where honest efforts seldom get you anything tangible, one could hardly place that burden on his shoulders.

True, Barcelona didn't sit around when they had the ball, for they simply cannot, but anyone who has seen Barcelona really push forward, would have seen that they were holding back. The outrageous passes were restricted to the final third of the pitch, and every time a full-back ventured forward, you could see Edmilson and Motta back-pedaling.

It was surprising to see Larsson not giving Gallas any room, or Deco running all over the place, offering help to whoever needed it, and chasing down Lampard. They showed that they had learned well, from Chelsea!

The Blues, in turn, should go back with their heads held high. They fought hard, for all of the 180 minutes, and with some luck, could have ruffled a few more feathers. Had Drogba directed his free header better, or Crespo shot a foot to the left, Barcelona would have been a goal down, and very nervous.

A goal, even with five minutes left on the clock, would have had the home fans bracing themselves every time Chelsea went forward. Mourinho admitted as much, when saying that the goal came too late. And unfortunately for him, Barcelona never panicked.

But the Chelsea fans can look back on a marvellous effort from their players, should they choose to let go of the rest. And the same goes for Mourinho. He is one of the best trainers around, and gave it his best shot. It wasn't good enough, which means he will have to wait longer to repeat his Porto success. But that doesn't say anything more, anything personal, unless he himself wants it to.

The players gave it everything, even though it was glaringly obvious that they aren't used to attacking in such numbers. It would be easy to fault Mourinho for some of his tactics, especially with the luxury of hindsight. But I will steer clear of that by pointing out that he did need to try something different. The players' lack of familiarity, could indeed, be the reason why there seemed to be little organization about the Chelsea effort.

But Mourinho will have found a lot to take heart from, I am sure.

Barcelona were gutted last year, but endured it, and came back stronger. So much stronger! There is absolutely no reason why Chelsea cannot do the same, unless of course, they prefer to clutch at straws rather than raising their own game, to yet another level.

Developing a fluent attacking game, the kind Barcelona, Real Madrid, Milan andArsenal are capable of, and not a stop-start approach which looked one-dimensional on Tuesday, is one of the many ways forward.

In the meantime, completing the Premiership and FA Cup double, if they can, will be far from an embarrassing return for the season, even for the ambitious Mourinho.

For Barcelona, this is hardly the time to think of changes, but one wonders whether Carragher, Terry, or even Coloccini would have had Oleguer's brain-fade, when presenting Drogba with a free header, or whether Zambrotta would have dropped back as Gio did, giving Cole the time and space to rip in the preceding cross. The list goes on.

Just as a loss doesn't mean Chelsea are doomed, a win doesn't mean Barcelona are perfect.

But for now, let alone their ability to let it rip when they want. For the sheer heart that they showed, for the sheer will to guts it out, and do something that doesn't come naturally to them, other teams will be scurrying to avoid them, and for as long as possible.

Red cards, no red cards, penalties, no penalties, Chelsea should have won, Barcelona should have won by more; these will be issues that some will want to keep throwing up. But then again, those are also the same football fanatics that keep this game, and indeed this site, going.

Prem: Best Eleven Of The Week

2006-03-12T22:49:00.000+04:00

1 Thomas Myhre (Charlton): Liverpool’s goal drought continued thanks to the stunning performance of Myhre. The Charlton keeper was outstanding and almost single-handedly ensured that Charlton left Anfield with a point.

2 Paul Konchesky (West Ham): A summer signing from Charlton, Konchesky showed composure in defence and good vision going forward against Blackburn. The former England Under 21 defender has excelled in West Ham’s back line and displayed enough quality to suggest that he has a future with the national team.

3 John Terry (Chelsea): A customary towering performance for the England defender. The Chelsea captain rarely puts a foot wrong and his performance will stand him in good stead for the Barcelona game.

4 Michael Dawson (Tottenham): The Tottenham ace has been in fine form this term and was outstanding once again as his side edged past Blackburn in what was an exciting clash. While defensive partner Ledley King struggled, Dawson was immense.

5 Emmanuel Eboue (Arsenal): The African Cup of Nations gave the Arsenal defender the perfect chance to gain match sharpness. Eboue has been impressive since his return to the Highbury club and has slotted into Wenger’s makeshift defence with ease.

6 Freddie Ljungberg (Arsenal): Arsenal fans were treated to the Swede’s best performance of the season so far. Freddie’s showing against Fulham was full of energy and industry, an ominous sign for Real Madrid.

7 Gavin McCann (Aston Villa): The midfield dynamo looks back to his best after helping his side to a 1-0 win. The former Sunderland man was instrumental in Villa’s win over Portsmouth on Saturday and seemed to cover every blade of grass.

8 Emre (Newcastle): The little Turk has been impressive when fit this season. Magpies fans were treated to another energetic and committed display from Emre.

9 Robbie Keane (Tottenham): What a week for the Tottenham striker! Named as the new Ireland Captain, Keane scored for his country and a brace against Blackburn helped his club side strengthen their hold on fourth place. Keane’s first goal was simply stunning.

10 Thierry Henry (Arsenal): Arsenal seem back in their stride and Henry was at the heart of most of Arsenal’s good work. With the Frenchman in such form Gunners fans will be in confident mood against Real Madrid.

11 Georgios Samaras (Man City): Two goals for the Greek striker who is making a name for himself in the Premiership. The all action attacker two goals in a devastating two minute spell for Stuart Pearce’s side.

La Primera Liga Best XI

2006-03-12T22:46:00.000+04:00

Ronaldinho and Riquelme warmed up for the Champions League in style, guiding their teams past resolute opponents with some moments of magic.

Goalkeeper

Antonio Prats (Mallorca): Made himself big on more than a couple of occasions, to keep a rampant Racing at bay, and earn his side a crucial point in their fight for survival.

Defenders

Gabriel Milito (Zaragoza): Recovered from an early error which gifted Nihat the opener, to keep the Turkish international, and the impressive Skoubo in check, and lend solidity to a superb Zaragoza comback.

Alexis (Malaga): Defended stoutly to keep out, and eventually frustrate the Vaencia front line. Almost bagged an opportunistic winner as well. Solid defending is a decent first step, if Malaga are to put up a fight against near certain relegation.

Abraham Paz (Cadiz): Another lesser know La Liga player who left a mark on the weekend. Neutralized Pandiani into substitution, and Raul Tamudo into ineffectiveness. Bagged Cadiz's late opener with a typical defenders' goal: a diving header from a precise free-kick, and capped it off with a precise cross for the second.

Midfielders

Diego Rivas (Getafe): The veteran midfielder marked his territory, and helped Getafe shut out Betis, to orchestrate what was a near perfect display from Schuster's charges.

Baptista (Real Madrid): Showed some of the reasons why he was Sevilla's highest goal scorer last season, using his physique well, and demonstrating some great movement to beat defenders and get to crosses, passes, et.al.

Canonbio (Celta Vigo): Came roaring back to form after a few average games, to help Celta inch ever closer to a Champions League berth. Rounded off by a great individual goal coming all the way from the half way line.

Riquelme (Villarreal): Has developed one of the deadliest if right feet, and used it well to give Villarreal two crucial goals in their slugfest with Alaves. A stinging corner, from the left, which the keeper could only parry into his own net, says it all.

Forwards

Ronaldinho (Barcelona): Pure class. Sheer magic. The Barca ace scored one, and set up two as the Catalans outdid a determined Deportivo, to extend their lead at the top to a massive ten points.

Kanoute (Sevilla): A typical centre-forward's display: getting into dangerous positions, chasing down balls punted forward, and heckling opposing defenders. Won the penalty for the first, and then earned his team full points after his team were reduced to ten men.

Guillermo Franco (Villarreal): Came on for a passive Jose Mari on the hour mark, with his team a goal down, and turned the match on its head with a near-perfect aerial display. The Mexican-Argentine created the equalizer almost within minutes of coming on, when heading down for Riquelme, and bagged a late winner with another domineering header.

Serie A Team Of The Week: Round 28

2006-03-12T22:45:00.000+04:00

This week our trident will consist of Toni, Inzaghi and Bresciano in a 3-4-3 formation

Benussi: Good goaltending to aid his team to attain three points.

Materazzi: Terrible mistake on Taddei’s goal, but then put the game on the right track by scoring that last minute equalizer.

Oddo: Scored a penalty and gave the Chievo players headaches. Deadlly on the counter attack.

Kaldaze: Good game defending. His long ball allowed for a goal to be scored.

Pirlo: He was the man that turned the game around for Milan. Great player.

Nedved: Great game. Nice goal. Can move the ball very well. Has a great working relationship with Camoranesi and DP.

Figo: Came in the 30th minute and turned Inter’s match in their favour. He’s passing through an excellent period and at Real Madrid they might be regretting letting him go.

Taddei: Scored a fine goal on the run. Along with Mancini and De Rossi he had a fine game. Kudos to Roma.

Toni: Keeps on scoring and leading Fiorentina to an unexpected fourth place.

Inzaghi: Super Pippo is back. Perhaps a CL awaits him.

Bresciano: Scored today to aid Parma to avoid relegation.

The End Of An Era Signals A New Start At Real Madrid

2006-03-12T22:41:00.000+04:00

At almost any other club in almost any other country a change of president the chairman would warrant one day of news coverage, but at Real Madrid it is worthy of weeks of conjecture, reflection and predictions.

Florentino Pérez's choice to step down as the head of the Spanish giants last weekend has heralded the end of an era, but also signals the dawn of a new one at El Bernabéu.

The man that founded the now world-famous phrase 'Los Galácticos' has realised that his grand vision of world stars and youth team players is not a mixture that would bring the club the success and glory that he so desperately craved.

After sweeping to power in 2000, Pérez succeeded in wiping out the club's debts before embarking on an incredible scheme to sign the game's biggest talents and put Real Madrid back on top of the football world.

Luis Figo, Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo and then David Beckham were all bought for millions of euros and were targeted as much for their ability as for their marketing power.

Pérez truly believed that if you put enough outstanding players in the same team then trophies were bound to follow and that was one of his major mistakes.

Football players must have egos in order to perform and work under a microscope as millions watch their every move waiting to pounce on the slightest mistake and for the members of Madrid's squad who were cast aside amid the media's longing to highlight the stars of the team envy and resentment was bound to set in.

While the big money signings were paraded, the players that had helped the team to clinch two league titles and the Champions League in Pérez's first three seasons in charge were pushed out of the spotlight, and saw many of their team-mates sold on.

In the summer of 2003, only hours after winning the title, coach Vicente Del Bosque was told to pack his bags because he did not fit the profile that Madrid now required.

Fernando Hierro was also ousted from the club after years of leading the team both on and off the field, while Claude Makelele was sold on without a second thought along with 15 other squad members.

Geremi, Iván Campo, Savio, Valdo, Flavio Conceiçao, Esteban Cambiasso, Steve McManaman, Fernando Morientes, Pedro Munitis and Julio Cesar may not all have been world class but selling them en masse in a matter of months left the squad thin on the ground.

Hierro and Makelele were integral parts of the team, despite the former being criticised during his last months at the club, but Pérez wanted stars and up-and-coming players form the youth ranks to combine to bring more success.

His phrase, 'Zidanes and Pavónes' was coined, but without the middle-men holding things together it never really worked and after two seasons without a trophy the president finally realised.

After failing to win any silverware in the last two campaigns, Pérez stuck to his guns and his philosophy that throwing more money at the problem and changing the coach again would turn things around once more.

What he only realised towards the end was that the divisions created by wrapping his star players in cotton wool and giving them special privileges would not be undone by such measures.

José Antonio Camacho was brought in as coach at the start of the 2004-05 campaign, but left after just five games in charge when he was castigated for dropping several star names and resigned on the flight home.

Rumours suggested that Adidas made strong complaints after Beckham was left on the bench for Camacho's last game in charge against Espanyol, indicating that the trainer was not in total control.

Even stand-in boss Mariano García Remón fell foul of making his own decisions when he left Ronaldo out of a game and was asked by the president who thought he was to make such a move. "I am the coach," came the reply.

With the Pérez era now consigned to the history books, both Madrid's players and supporters are looking forward to a brighter future where everything runs on a more level playing field.

The new president, Fernando Martín, may have been behind the scenes throughout Pérez's reign, having joined the board in 2000, but he certainly has his own ideas about how things will be done.

A supporter of ensuring that financial freedom is paramount, the 58-year-old property developer and former politician is reported to considering shaking up the club's playing squad.

In his opening speeches to the media, Martín has stated that there are numerous players at Real Madrid that are under-performing and will either have to improve or find themselves a new club come the summer.

“Players have to understand the message that complete dedication is required at all times,” he said. “This is the third year the team has not performed as it should. The third year in which the image presented by the first team has not been the desired one.

A committee to investigate exactly what has gone wrong will also be set up, although quite why when the answer appears to be so obvious is one that the assembled journalists thought it was best not to ask.

"We will not be getting the whip out, but the committee will ensure Real Madrid's players always behave with responsibility and dedication," he continued, with echoes of Pérez's booklet on how Real Madrid players should behave that was handed out to the squad soon after his arrival.

"It is the players' duty to wear our shirt with dignity. If the institution allows them to be extraordinarily well paid it is because they expect an absolutely exemplary effort from them in return.

"Real Madrid cannot be a club of millionaires, it must be a club of wonderful sportsmen who give their lives on the pitch and subordinate their entire life, 24 hours a day, to achieving a perfect physical condition."

Whatever the commision's findings are, rumours abound in the Spanish media that players such as Zidane, Roberto Carlos, Michel Salgado, Jonathan Woodgate, Thomas Gravesen, Pablo García, Antonio Cassano and Iván Helguera will all be offered to clubs at the end of the season.

One player who is pleased that the Galácticos will be no more is club captain Raúl, who was reported to have helped Hierro rule the roost before his mentor was given a free transfer three years ago.

“I hope that finishes because it has done a lot of damage to the club," he said. "I hope the word gets put aside for the benefit of all.

“I hope people see us from now on as professionals.”

On paper, as is usually the case at Real Madrid, things look to be heading in the right direction again and the fans are hoping that the new man in town can finally return the club to being a real force.

The same aspirations and dreams met every new coach that was introduced under Pérez, the only difference is this time the new president does actually have full control in order to make a difference.

CL Draw Reaction: Koeman Relishing Barça Return

2006-03-12T22:29:00.000+04:00

Ronald Koeman believes that Barcelona is one of the toughest draws that his Benfica side could have been given in the Champions League, but he is relishing the prospect of facing his former club.

The Dutch coach is a hero at the Catalan club after scoring the winning goal in the 1992 European Cup Final and is still a huge fan although he is obviously determined to win the tie.

"It is a great draw for us, and very special for me personally because of the happy years I spent at Barcelona. I've already received phone calls from the many friends that I left there and that is nice.

"Barcelona have a history of success and have a very good team. They are one of the favourites to win the cup.

"They have great players like Ronaldinho, Samuel Eto'o and Deco but I am pleased to face them because I played for and coached them for many years," he said referring to his time as Louis Van Gaal's assistant.

"I know the atmosphere at the Nou Camp with its 100,000 seats is something special but I must remind people that we play the first leg at the Stadium of Light where the climate is equally intense."

While Barcelona's players have already said that they are pleased to be playing the second leg at home, Koeman is hoping that his side can record a victory in the opening game and then defend it at Camp Nou.

"When we play the first game at home we must keep our goal intact," he explained. "From then on any result is good, even a 0-0 draw.

"1-0 would be good because if we could then score a goal there they would have to score three.

"Our philosophy is the same as in the match against Liverpool. There is the chance of reaching the semi-finals. Nothing is impossible in life."

FA Англии опровергла сообщения о переговорах с Кёрбишли

2006-03-12T22:26:00.000+04:00

Как сообщалось ранее, управляющий совет Футбольной ассоциации Англии (FA) пригласил главного тренера "Чарльтона" Алана Кёрбишли на свое очередное заседание. Речь на собрании должна была идти о возможном назначении Кёрбишли на пост главного тренера национальной сборной Англии.
Однако в воскресение представитель FA Адриан Бевингтон отклонил эти сообщения.
"Если мы пригласили тренера "Чарльтона на заседание, то это еще ничего не означает. Это обычный рабочий процесс, - сказал Бевингтон. - Я точно могу заявить, что никакого решения о приемнике Свена-Ёрана Эрикссона не принято".

CL Draw Reaction: Rijkaard Happy To Face Koeman

2006-03-12T18:53:00.000+04:00

Frank Rijkaard has revealed that he was desperate to avoid Villarreal in the Champions League quarter-final draw after Barcelona were paired with Benfica.

The Dutch coach did not want to face the only possible rival from the Spanish League because he believes that facing a domestic opponent is more difficult than taking on any of Europe's big guns.

"It is more difficult to play a side that is in the same league as you," he said. "More so than playing the big European teams."

Barça's meeting with Benfica sees Rijkaard reunited with his former Holland and Ajax team-mate Ronald Koeman, who has steered Benfica to the last eight of this season's competition.

"We have some very good memories together," Rijkaard said. "At this stage the level of the Champions League is very high and Benfica are a great team.

"The most important thing is to focus on our job as every game is different."

The Barcelona president, Joan Laporta, had pinpointed Milan as the team to avoid, but his team may end up having to face the Italian giants in the semi finals.

"One team I especially did not to play in the quarter finals was Milan," he said. "In the semi finals, if we play them, I will not mind so much. Also, there are elections in Italy on April 9 and if we had to play them there in the second leg of the quarters then the pressure would be enormous because Silvio Berlusconi, the president of Milan, is running in the elections."

The fact that the second leg of both the quarter final against Benfica and a possible semi final will be played at Camp Nou is something that was seen as vital by the Catalan club.

"Benfica are a difficult team, but he most important thing though, is that the second game is at home," Laporta stated.

The club's technical secretary, Txiki Begiristain agreed: "More important than who we drew, is the fact that the second game is at home.

"The draw has been made and if we reach the semi finals then we will play either Lyon or Milan, the two strongest teams left.

"Now though, we must focus on Benfica. They have knocked out the reigning champions, but I consider it to be a good draw."

Started

2006-03-12T18:49:00.000+04:00

here is post football news :) enjoy