In-form AC Milan scored three times in the first 23 minutes to seal an easy 3-0 home win overSampdoria on Saturday and consolidate second spot in Serie A.
Alexandre Pato, AC Milan
Ronaldinho set up the first two goals but went off with a minor hamstring strain just after the half hour with one eye on Tuesday's Champions League clash at FC Zurich, where a win will put Milan into the last 16.
Striker Marco Borriello headed in the Brazilian's well-flighted cross after just two minutes for his fourth league goal of the season. Ronaldinho, thriving on the left of a new three-man attack, then laid the ball off for midfielder Clarence Seedorf to smash in his 50th Serie A goal from just inside the box on 21 minutes.
Forward Alexandre Pato tapped in on the rebound shortly afterwards to secure a fifth straight league win for Leonardo's side, who have recovered from a shaky start to the campaign.
Sampdoria, beaten by Genoa in last weekend's derby and by Livorno in the Italian Cup in midweek, have suffered a drastic dip in form having been early season leaders with playmaker Antonio Cassano again quiet at the San Siro.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Serie A: Ronaldinho inspires Milan victory
AC Milan 3-0 Sampdoria: Ronaldinho show
All the goals came in the first half with Marco Borriello putting the Rossoneri ahead in the first minute of the match and Clarence Seedorf adding a second in the 21st minute. Ronaldinho was in inspired form, creating the first two goals, and fellow Brazilian Alexandre Pato completed Milan's fifth straight win in the 23rd minute to pile the misery on the Blucerchiati The visitors have now lost three games in the last week following a 3-0 reverse in the Genoa derby last Saturday and their elimination from the Coppa Italia at the hands of Livorno in midweek.
Ronaldo sent off after inspiring Real win
Cristiano Ronaldo won and missed a penalty, scored a goal and was then sent off as Real Madrid came back to beat Almeria 4-2 at home in La Liga on Saturday. GettyImages The referee shows a red card to Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo Manuel Pellegrini's side looked to be cruising when Sergio Ramos headed them in front after 31 minutes but the visitors netted twice in four minutes midway through the second half. Gonzalo Higuain levelled for Real in the 74th before their Portugal winger Ronaldo flung himself over Almeria goalkeeper Diego Alves to win a disputed penalty in the 81st. Alves saved the spot kick but Karim Benzema converted the rebound and Ronaldo made it 4-2 two minutes later, picking up a yellow card as he celebrated by taking his shirt off. In the last minute, Ronaldo kicked Almeria's Juanma Ortiz after a tussle for the ball, earning his second yellow card and was dismissed. Second-placed Real move on to 31 points, two behind undefeated leaders Barcelona who have also played 13 matches and face Deportivo Coruna away in the late game.
Real Madrid 4-2 Almeria: Ronaldo Off As Blancos Fight Back In Bernabeu Thriller
Ronaldo, starting his first home match in over two months due to his ankle injury, also created a goal and missed a penalty as Madrid made hard work of seeing off lowly Almeria. There appeared little sign of the drama to come as Manuel Pellegrini's men ended an impressive first-half display 1-0 up thanks to Sergio Ramos' header. But Almeria, who did not have a shot in anger in the opening period, stunned their hosts with two goals in three minutes from Fernando Soriano and Kalu Uche to lead 2-1. That sparked the home side into action, and Madrid responded with goals from Gonzalo Higuain, Karim Benzema - who netted after Ronaldo's penalty had been saved - and then Ronaldo in the final 17 minutes. The former Manchester United man was booked for taking his shirt off to celebrate that goal, and that proved costly as four minutes later he was handed his marching orders after picking up a second yellow following a tussle with Michel. His dismissal did not cost Madrid dear in this match though as they held on to make it seven home wins from seven and keep the pressure up on leaders Barca.Ronaldo endures eventful night
Wigan Athletic 2 - 3 Birmingham
It is now six matches without defeat for Alex McLeish's side, who find themselves riding high in an unaccustomed eighth position in the Premier League and comfortably on course for survival. Two free-kicks from Sebastian Larsson sandwiched a second goal of the season for Christian Benitez, all in the space of 11 maddening minutes for Martinez, whose side had easily led 1-0 at the break via a stunning effort from Charles N'Zogbia. That should have been the platform for back-to-back wins for the Latics for the first time this season following last weekend's 1-0 win over Sunderland. Yet for some reason Martinez is unable to fathom, they are unable to string two results and performances together, leaving them hovering precariously over the relegation zone. No wonder Martinez is desperately seeking two or three players in the transfer window to strengthen his squad in a bid to stay up.Larsson double downs Latics
Wolverhampton Wanderers 2 - 1 Bolton Wanderers
Goals from Jody Craddock and Nenad Milijas put them in the driving seat at Molineux. But when substitute Johan Elmander hit back with 12 minutes remaining, it set up a tense finish. Bolton though failed to get the goal they craved despite some sustained pressure. Wolves moved off the foot of the table after the three points boss McCarthy was hoping for. They got off to the best possible start by making the breakthrough in the third minute. Andy O'Brien was hauled back after a challenge on Kevin Doyle and Milijas swung in the free-kick. Christophe Berra flicked the ball on and Craddock swept it home from close range for his fourth goal of the season.Wolves hang on for vital victory
Aston Villa 3 - 0 Hull City
Milner set up the opening goal for central defender Richard Dunne and scored the second himself before half-time with an exquisite lob. John Carew added a third from the penalty spot two minutes from time. To make matters worse for the Tigers, midfielder Jimmy Bullard had to be substituted after 18 minutes through injury to his left knee, which has been responsible for lengthy lay-offs in the past. The former Fulham player had only returned to action in October after nine months out of action and had played a major role in Hull's recent revival. But it is doubtful whether even Bullard at his best would have been able to contain Villa who produced some of their best football of the campaign in the opening 45 minutes when inspired by Milner. He made his first England start against Brazil last month and Villa boss Martin O'Neill believes his versatility could clinch him a place on the plane to South Africa. The 23-year-old has played predominantly on the flanks for Villa but slotted effectively into a central role. Stewart Downing impressed on his home Barclays Premier League debut before understandably tiring after his lengthy injury lay-off, while skipper Stiliyan Petrov and full-back Luke Young also played key roles. Hull never threatened to extend their four-game unbeaten run and it was like a cloud was hanging over them once Bullard had hobbled to the dressing room to supportive applause from both sets of fans.Milner inspires Villa victory
Portsmouth 2 - 0 Burnley
Hermann Hreidarsson fired the South Coast club ahead after 65 minutes, thanks to a brilliant ball from substitute Kanu. Dindane wasted a spot-kick, and a presentable rebound chance, after half an hour but made no mistake when he sealed Pompey's third win of the season from Jamie O'Hara's pinpoint cross after 83 minutes. Most of Portsmouth's attacking threat came from a free-roaming Kevin-Prince Boateng. The Ghana international was the first home player to test Burnley keeper Brian Jensen after seven minutes, when he drove in a vicious shot from 25 yards. The Dane fumbled it but none of Boateng's team mates followed up for the rebound. Burnley's best early attempt came from a deflected Robbie Blake free-kick after 15 minutes, which was comfortably taken by Asmir Begovic, who covered for the injured David James. Steven Fletcher had a much better chance to open the scoring for the Clarets three minutes later when Wade Elliott raced forward and crossed from the right.Pompey off the bottom
Blackburn Rovers 0 - 0 Liverpool
The first half was a shocking, grim affair with neither side producing anything worthy of note. After the break Liverpool were arguably the better side, but even a third successive clean sheet will not mask another display which lacked drive and belief. Blackburn deserved their point in a good week which also saw them beat Chelsea in the Carling Cup quarter-finals. They made four changes from Wednesday's victorious side with Michel Salgado, Nikola Kalinic, Morten Gamst Pedersen and Jason Roberts on the bench and the fresh legs of Gael Givet, Vince Grella, El Hadji Diouf and Franco Di Santo all back in the side. Liverpool had Albert Riera and Yossi Benayoun returning to the starting line-up from the side which won at Everton last time out. Dirk Kuyt played as the lone central striker with Steven Gerrard, playing his 500th game for the club, delegated to his supporting role. With Riera and Benayoun out wide and a clear decision to defend in depth, Liverpool were looking to hit Blackburn on the break. Rovers accepted the initiative handed to them in midfield and came forward with purpose with ex-Liverpool man Diouf prominent as the home side monopolised possession. Not one serious chance was created in the opening half, Liverpool not having enough up front to make things happen and Blackburn finding it tough to weave their way through Liverpool's massed ranks.Liverpool held at Blackburn
Arsenal 2 - 0 Stoke City
Andrey Arshavin, who was by far the Gunners' best player, slotted home from a tight angle in the first half minutes after Cesc Fabregas had missed a penalty on his 250th appearance for the club. After a largely frustrating second half, impressive substitute Aaron Ramsey sealed the win with a cool finish 10 minutes from time. With Robin van Persie, Nicklas Bendtner and Theo Walcott out injured, Arsene Wenger's options up front were further reduced by the late withdrawal of Eduardo, who was left out with a "minor muscular problem". Arshavin spearheaded the Gunners attack in a line-up that included eight changes from the 3-0 defeat at Manchester City in midweek while Fabregas captained the Arsenal side in Wenger's 100th league game in charge. Abdoulaye Faye, Rory Delap and Tuncay Sanli came in for Stoke, who were without Ryan Shawcross after he failed a late fitness test. Wenger admitted yesterday confidence in the Arsenal camp had been hit following their defeat at Manchester City in the Carling Cup and last week's 3-0 humbling against Chelsea, which put them 11 points behind the leaders. But this win given them 3 more points & Chelsea defeat to Manchester city given them relief and now they are 8 points behind the leader Chelsea.Arshavin show sinks Potters
West Ham United 0 - 4 Manchester United
And the way his team-mates slapped his back and ruffled his hair after the 20-yard left-footed thunderbolt had rippled the West Ham net must have gone some way to end his own doubts. Only 24 hours before, 35-year-old Scholes had been bemoaning his lot. He even hinted he might not seek to renew his contract when it runs out at the end of the season. Typically honest, he said: "I wouldn't say I was playing some of my best football. I don't always feel I am making as much of a contribution as I'd like to.'' Well, there are few Premier League midfielders who could have bettered the strike which came in the dying seconds of stoppage-time in the first half of a contest which was beginning to fray around the edges for Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson. Further goals from Darron Gibson, Antonio Valencia and Wayne Rooney made it comfortable for the visitors after the break.Classy United crush Hammers
Manchester City 2 - 1 Chelsea
Carlos Tevez's brilliant free-kick ultimately proved decisive after Emmanuel Adebayor had inadvertently put Chelsea in front, then cancelled out that own goal himself seven minutes before the interval. However, that hardly told the story as bad tempered Chelsea went down in a hail of yellow cards - six in all - and skipper John Terry went off with a leg injury that will bring a moment of dread to Fabio Capello even if the damage is not too great. The two first-half goals were certainly not in keeping with a pulsating opening in which City more than matched their highly-rated opponents without ever looking completely secure at the back. Mark Hughes' men had already been given one warning when Shay Given turned away Drogba's angled drive. Yet, when he looks at the replay, Hughes will probably conclude the main factor in Chelsea's opener was complete bad luck.City stun Chelsea at Eastlands
Preview :Juventus v Internazionale
Runaway leaders Inter Milan can further extend their Serie A advantage this weekend with victory over title challengers Juventus. Jose Mourinho's Inter are currently seven points ahead of fierce city rivals AC Milan and eight clear of faltering Juve, who are third. With AC facing a challenging contest against fourth-placed Sampdoria in the first match of the weekend tomorrow, three more points could put Inter a significant step nearer to retaining their title. Juventus-Inter clashes, known as the 'derby of Italy', traditionally create a fervour among the clubs' supporters but Mourinho remained typically emotionless in the build-up. "I don't see any reason why tomorrow night's match can't just be a match of football and nothing else,'' said Mourinho. "I'm not Italian, I wasn't born with this rivalry between Inter and Juve. "It will obviously be an important match, it's part of history, but for me it's a match that will give three points, the same points that we got against Fiorentina and dropped against Sampdoria.'' Former Chelsea manager Mourinho claimed the Serie A crown in his first season in charge and has overcome the loss of league top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic early in his second. However, he erred on the side of caution when he said: "A championship is never over until the end, but we know that we will come away from Turin with the top spot intact, though this doesn't lessen our motivations or desire to do well.'' Inter president Massimo Moratti met Mourinho for lunch today after taking in the final training session ahead of the trip to Turin. Young defender Davide Santon and summer signing Wesley Sneijder were put through individual sessions on the way back from injury while Ricardo Quaresma, forced out of last weekend's 1-0 win over Fiorentina, was absent. Juventus have stumbled in their pursuit of Mourinho's men with last week's loss at Cagliari their third of the campaign. Juve boss Ciro Ferrara, whose side also succumbed to French champions Bordeaux 10 days ago, said: "It's important to get back on the field. "Inter have robust pace and great quality, but I'm confident because for these games we do not even need to prepare them. "Anything can happen: we are facing a team in health, which has a certain mentality. "It is a very important moment of the championship, for the three points and for all that involves the derby of Italy. "To slow their charge we want to make a great game and win it.'' Some observers suggest Juventus have struggled to replace Czech midfielder Pavel Nedved since his retirement last summer. Brazilian duo Diego and Felipe Melo arrived at the Stadio delle Alpi as Serie A's biggest pre-season signings, however, and Ferrara insists evolution is part of top-level football. "Big companies are made by great players, but when they, for one reason or another leave, teams must go on,'' Ferrara said. "Juventus had a history made by so many champions, but it's always going forward, continuing to win. "We saw with (Gianluca) Vialli, with (Roberto) Baggio, with (Zinedine) Zidane, with (Pavel) Nedved and will remain so for other players.''
Preview :AC Milan v Sampdoria
Gianluca Zambrotta is hoping Klaas-Jan Huntelaar's match-winning contribution against Catania will prove a watershed moment for the Dutch striker. Huntelaar, who joined the Rossoneri after a modest spell with Real Madrid last season, failed to find the net in his first seven outings but made a decisive contribution against Catania, scoring two stoppage-time goals just minutes after coming on as a substitute. Now Zambrotta is hoping for more of the same from the Holland forward, who may have forced his way into the starting XI for tomorrow's home clash with Sampdoria. Zambrotta, 32, told Milan Channel: "Let's hope that these two goals are a good omen for him, that he unblocked himself and that he can help us during this season. "It is a fundamental and difficult season, with the many commitments which await us and he will be important.'' It is a crucial weekend at the top of Serie A, with leaders Inter Milan facing third-placed Juventus in the weekend's big match. Victory over Catania, coupled with an Inter defeat, could lift Leonardo's side to within four points of top spot - a position they could only have wished for during the difficult start to life under the Brazilian coach. But, with four straight wins coming into the Catania match, Huntelaar believes the title race is back on. "League titles are not claimed in November or December,'' said the striker. "We still have time to catch Inter and we hope Juve hand us a favour on Sunday.'' Zambrotta echoed those sentiments, urging his team-mates not to lose their current momentum. "We have to keep the will to win, to continue to remain in the top positions. We are in a good phase but we must continue to go forward in this very good condition which has come out during this period,'' he said. "Sunday's win arrived in the final two minutes of the match, we managed to reach second place. This is what we wanted and now the important thing will be to continue at this pace. "We know that Sampdoria are a very good team, they have players who can make the difference at any moment and I think that it will be a well fought game until the end.'' Sampdoria head into the clash reeling from two painful defeats in the space of just four days. The first of those saw them slump to a morale-sapping 3-0 defeat to city rivals Genoa before being knocked out of the Coppa Italia by two late goals from Livorno. Manager Luigi Del Neri admitted his side had plenty to learn from those defeats and will hope they can apply those lessons sooner rather than later. "We have a young team,'' said Del Neri. "We have lads who still don't know what it means to play in Serie A. "I think this defeat will be useful for my team in the future. "However, I am disappointed for the fans. I hope we can give them satisfaction in the future.''
Beckham reveals he suffers chronic asthma woes
The 34-year-old Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder, who will begin a second stint with AC Milan in January, was seen using an inhaler after the MLS Cup final. CAPE TOWN, South Africa -- Renowned for his fitness, David Beckham revealed Thursday he has been dealing with asthma for several years. "It's out there now," he said on the eve of the World Cup draw in Cape Town. "Sometimes I have good days and bad days. I've never hidden it but it's something I've had for a good few years now. "I hope it turns into a positive because I've been able to play for many years with the condition. I know there are many other players who have overcome it such as (Manchester United midfielder) Paul Scholes." Beckham also dismissed a report that he regularly smokes cigars, but admitted he occasionally tastes one when he celebrates a major triumph.
Preview : Portsmouth vs Burnley
Portsmouth boss Avram Grant is missing influential defender Younes Kaboul for his side's Barclays Premier League home game with Burnley on Saturday. The former Tottenham man serves a one-match ban for picking up five bookings, but Jamie O'Hara, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Mike Williamson and Tommy Smith all return after being cup-tied for the Carling Cup clash with Aston Villa on Tuesday. Goalkeeper David James is a doubt as he struggles with a calf injury, while the game probably comes too soon for Papa Bouba Diop (hamstring) and Steve Finnan (groin), who both returned to training this week. Grant has claimed his players remain focused on beating Burnley despite having to wait another week for their November wages. The club's players are normally paid by the last working day of the month, but the cash did not arrive in their bank accounts last Monday. Grant confirmed the Fratton Park outfit paid their stars 25% of their wages on Friday, but added they would have to wait until next Friday for the remaining 75%. Burnley captain Steven Caldwell is suspended after his red card last week at West Ham. Manager Owen Coyle will therefore have to change his defence for the first time in eight matches and is likely to drop Andre Bikey back from a defensive midfield position, which could pave the way for Kevin McDonald to come in. On-loan striker David Nugent is ineligible to play against his parent club. Burnley forward Robbie Blake believes some of the criticism levelled at the team this season will have had his defensive team-mates wanting "to punch the TV''. The Clarets weaknesses were pored over by television commentators as they went 5-0 down at West Ham last week before eventually fighting back to 5-3 at Upton Park. But Blake said the players were immune to it as they had total belief in Coyle's methods. "Pundits are going to knock us. It's a lot easier for me because I'm a forward but I can imagine some of the defenders wanting to punch the TV,'' said the 33-year-old. "But we are big enough players and we have to take it. It is high-pressure stuff in the Premier League with things highlighted so much. "There are no down-beat players in our team - the gaffer would not allow that. "You can never speak highly of these lads. We are all one unit, there are no individuals, and we all want to stay in this league.'' Burnley have taken just one point - a 3-3 draw at Manchester City a month ago - in their seven away matches this season but head to Portsmouth looking to end that dismal run. And despite some heavy defeats on the road, Blake stressed there would no change of emphasis. "You have to trust the manager and the players,'' he said.
Preview : Aston Villa vs Hull City
Aston Villa striker John Carew is poised to return for Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash with Hull at Villa Park. The Norwegian international missed the Carling Cup quarter-final victory over Portsmouth at Fratton Park in midweek with a hamstring strain. Carew must wait to see whether he regains his starting spot as a resurgent Emile Heskey has netted twice in the past three games. Central defender James Collins is again ruled out with a calf problem, meaning Carlos Cuellar will partner Richard Dunne at the heart of the back four. Villa boss Martin O'Neill is looking for his side to maintain their push for European football at the expense of Phil Brown's side by turning a succession of draws into victories. But he's aware that the Tigers have made vast improvements in the past months to climb out of the bottom three. Hull are again without midfielder Seyi Olofinjana. The Nigeria international has missed the last three games with a hamstring injury but should return to training next week. Bernard Mendy could be doubtful after suffering a knock in a midweek reserve outing. Craig Fagan (rib) is back in contention but third-choice goalkeeper Tony Warner is unavailable due to his wife giving birth. George Boateng believes Tigers chief Brown has become a better manager since Adam Pearson returned as club chairman last month. Brown's job was thought to be on the line at the time of Pearson's appointment as his team had slipped into the bottom three of the Barclays Premier League.
Preview : Wigan Athletic vs Birmingham
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has a fully-fit squad to choose from for Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash with Birmingham at the DW Stadium. It means Martinez is likely to name an unchanged side following the 1-0 home win over Sunderland last Saturday as the Latics firmly put behind them their embarrassing 9-1 defeat at Tottenham. Martinez is demanding consistency, however, as the Latics seek back-to-back wins for the first time this season. Martinez is ready to spend in January in a bid to keep the club in the Premier League. With just four weeks to go before the new transfer window opens, the Spaniard believes he requires another two or three players to see the Latics through to the end of the season. Martinez feels the current squad needs strengthening, notably in attack after losing the services of Marlon King. King was sacked by chairman Dave Whelan after receiving an 18-month jail sentence after being found guilty of sexually assaulting and causing actual bodily harm to a 20-year-old female student. Although Scott Sinclair is on loan from Chelsea, it leaves Martinez with just Jason Scotland and Hugo Rodallega as his primary striking options. The former Scotland boss is likely to keep faith with the squad which impressed in beating Wolves 1-0 last weekend to climb into 11th spot. Blues have climbed into 11th spot after a five-game unbeaten run which has yielded 11 points. It is relatively rosy times for McLeish and his squad after being relegated 18 months ago and then having to battle last season to reclaim their top-flight status. But the former Scotland boss has his feet on the ground and warned: "You are only a couple of defeats from a crisis.'' McLeish added: "The confidence is good and we have been playing well all season. I feel we have done that in 13 of the 14 games and the difference now is we are getting the results our play has merited. He said: "What has happened with Wigan the last couple of weeks shows anyone can beat anybody in this league. "They are a good side but on any given day there is always the fear a big club can do what happened with Tottenham against Wigan. If a side gets two or three goals in quick succession, it seems like you are playing 12 men. "I have been on the end of similar drubbings but Wigan have shown great character and had a fantastic win over Sunderland.''
Preview : Arsenal vs Stoke City
Arsenal winger Theo Walcott will miss Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash with Stoke because of a hamstring injury. However, Gunners manager Arsene Wenger expects Walcott to be available for Wednesday's Champions League match against Olympiacos. Alex Song is suspended for the showdown at the Emirates Stadium but right-back Bacary Sagna has recovered from his ankle injury. Gael Clichy (back), Abou Diaby (calf) and Nicklas Bendtner (groin) are still missing, as are Johan Djourou (knee), Kieran Gibbs (foot) and Robin van Persie (ankle). Arsenal trail leaders Chelsea by 11 points yet Wenger refuses to concede the title race. "We are disheartened. We are not light-hearted at the moment, I don't deny that,'' he said. "But I believe it is a good way to see how strong we react. "I believe the players are disappointed but highly motivated and determined to get back on track in a convincing way. "We have a game in hand on the other teams and I believe that Chelsea and Manchester United can drop points.'' Stoke will give a late fitness test to central defender Ryan Shawcross. The 22-year-old has a groin injury that forced him off in last weekend's 0-0 draw at Blackburn, and is considered a major doubt for the trip to the Emirates. Stoke are without midfielder Dean Whitehead, who is suspended. Potters boss Tony Pulis also has four other players - Ricardo Fuller, Robert Huth, Glenn Whelan and Shawcross - all one booking away from a ban. Stoke manager Tony Pulis hopes he is not shaking Arsene Wenger's hand at the Emirates tomorrow after being on the wrong end of a hammering. The Potters boss has already made it clear he is very much in the camp that insists rival bosses shake hands after matches. But Pulis fears any handshake will be accompanied by gritted teeth, with Arsenal looking to end a run of three straight defeats. "This season we have been strong enough to play poorly and still get points. Away from home we have seven points from seven games, which is good. "If we can average a point a game away from home we will be delighted. We are ahead of the target we have set ourselves. "We are ninth in the Premier League and that is fantastic for this club."
Van Persie and Gibbs undergo successful surgery
Arsene Wenger has received some welcome news on the injury front, with the Arsenal boss revealing Robin van Persie and Kieran Gibbs both had successful surgery. GettyImages Arsene Wenger knows he needs to replace the injured Robin Van Persie. Van Persie, 26, suffered an ankle injury while on international duty with Holland and will be out for around five months, but Wenger is relieved that there were no complications with his operation. Left-back Kieran Gibbs, who has gone under the knife for his fractured foot, also came through as well as could be hoped. "Kieran is doing very well,'' Wenger said. "I had him on the phone and it looked to be completely fine. I have not talked to Robin yet but there again the news I got from the surgery was it went very, very well. There was a lot of disturbance on our side recently [about his injury] but the surgery went well.'' Andrey Arshavin has highlighted the problem of holding the ball up in attack without Van Persie. The previously free-scoring team have not found the net in three domestic league and cup games since Van Persie's injury, although they managed a 2-0 win over Standard Liege in the Champions League.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Preview : Atletico Madrid vs Xerez
Having just faced Barcelona's all-star attack in midweek, Xerez's defence have little chance for respite as they prepare to take on an Atletico Madrid forward line that, according to midfielder Carlos Calvo, is one of the best in the game. Promoted Xerez remained rooted to the foot of the Primera Division after losing 2-0 at home to Barca on Wednesday in a fixture brought forward due to the Catalan side's commitments in the FIFA Club World Cup. Jose Angel Ziganda's side made it difficult for the champions and the result was still in doubt until Barca substitute Zlatan Ibrahimovic lobbed home his side's second in injury-time. Xerez's defence coped reasonably well with Barca's much-vaunted strikeforce, but Calvo believes they will need to be just as good tomorrow when Atletico duo Diego Forlan and Sergio Aguero come to town. Forlan won the European Golden Boot for the second time last season after netting 32 goals in La Liga, while he and highly-rated Argentinian Aguero have struck 10 times between them in the league already this season. "They have two of the best strikers in the world, Aguero and Forlan,'' said Calvo. "We have to make sure they have a bad game and give the best of ourselves.'' Xerez's defeat to Barca has left them with just seven points and four goals from 13 games, and they are already three points adrift of Atletico in 17th. Atletico climbed out of the relegation zone with a 4-0 mauling of Espanyol last weekend and Calvo concedes the capital club will be in high spirits for the trip south. He added: "They are going to arrive full of confidence. They haven't played at the level they can do and the place they are in now is not the one they will be in at the end of the season. "Saturday's game is very important. We need to try and pick up six points before the winter break.'' Aside from the Barca defeat, Xerez's preparations for the Atletico clash were further disrupted on Thursday when president Carlos de Osma resigned. Atletico finally gave their fans something to shout about following a dismal start to the season with the win over Espanyol. That was only the second league triumph of a campaign which has so far been utterly forgettable both domestically and in Europe, where Atletico have already bid farewell to the Champions League. However, the Rojiblancos now have a great chance to put further distance between themselves and the relegation zone, and defender Pablo Ibanez hopes they can take advantage. "The present is Xerez,'' he said. "There's no need to think beyond that. Hopefully we can continue with our positive run. "The squad's mental state is good. Now we have to follow the same line of work that we showed last Sunday. The side from Andalusia is a good one, but we have to go for the three points. Of course, we always have to respect the opponent.'' Atletico coach Quique Sanchez Flores has had fitness concerns about Jose Antonio Reyes, Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Sergio Asenjo, but all three look on course to make Saturday's game.
Preview : Sevilla Fc vs Valladolid
Sevilla winger Diego Capel has warned his team-mates not to underestimate the threat posed by Real Valladolid despite their position at the wrong end of the table. Including their dismal form at the end of last season, Valladolid have won just two of their last 23 league matches and make the trip to Andalusia stuck in the bottom six of the Primera Division, four points above the relegation zone. In contrast, Sevilla are third in the table after accumulating 26 points from a possible 36 and a victory on Saturday could lift them above Real Madrid and into second if the capital club slip up against Almeria. Capel is taking nothing for granted though, perhaps recalling last season's match away to Valladolid when Sevilla capitulated after going 2-0 up inside 24 minutes, Manolo Jimenez's side eventually losing 3-2 after having striker Luis Fabiano sent off in the 34th minute. "We cannot be overconfident. The teams who are hurting are the ones that make you suffer more,'' Capel said. "Maybe they aren't coming here in a great moment, but they are going to come here to play their game and they are going to make things difficult for us.'' Capel looked to be the next big thing to come off the Sevilla production line when he broke onto the scene a few years ago. However, he has found his playing time limited in recent times, largely due to the emergence of Argentinian starlet Diego Perotti. This season Perotti has made 11 starts in the Primera Division and the Champions League, whereas fellow 21-year-old Capel has just four. "I'm calm, I have a player in front of me who is having some very good games, but I'm never going to give up,'' said twice-capped Spain international Capel. "These types of circumstances make you stronger. I'm not giving up, I'm going to continue working hard because there are a lot of games to play in.'' Valladolid were held to a hugely disappointing 3-3 draw at home by promoted Tenerife at the weekend after surrendering a 3-0 lead with less than 30 minutes to go. Despite that setback, Valladolid coach Jose Luis Mendilibar insists his side have what it takes to cause an upset against Sevilla this weekend, even though he knows it is going to be tough. "We know how they play, with two fast and skilful wingers and strong and technically good strikers, although it is a different matter being able to counter their offensive power,'' said Mendilibar. "They have the most complete squad in the league. They have strong players, technical, fast, good in the air. "The key is to try and scare them and get into their area. Then we would have a chance of winning. I'm convinced that we are capable of creating a surprise.'' Diego Costa, who scored twice against Tenerife, looks to have shaken off his injury problem ahead of the game, likewise with Marcos and Fabian Canobbio, but Pedro Lopez and Sisi are sidelined. For Sevilla, Julien Escude and Adriano are doubts, while Didier Zokora is missing through suspension.
Preview : Deportivo La Coruña v Barcelona
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has urged his table-topping side to keep improving ahead of Saturday night's trip to Deportivo La Coruna in the Primera Division. Barca were not entirely convincing in last Sunday's home win over Real Madrid in `El Clasico' and needed two moments of brilliance from Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to brush aside bottom club Xerez on Wednesday. Barca now travel to in-form Deportivo and Guardiola expects another difficult match. "Barca have only won in Coruna three times in the last 17 years,'' he said. "It's very important that we win - they are a great team and it's a difficult ground to go to, so a win would give us a big boost.'' Last season's treble winners have drawn three of their last four league matches on the road and were far from their brilliant best as they laboured to a 2-0 win at Xerez in midweek. And Guardiola wants to see an improvement. "There will not be a repeat of a game like the one in Jerez,'' he said. "We are not happy just to win, because we always have to try to do better - that is how we have won people's respect and we have to keep on winning their respect.'' Barcelona's match against Xerez was put forward due to the Catalans' participation in the forthcoming World Club Championship, which starts next week. Guardiola's side now lead La Liga by five points from bitter rivals Madrid, but have played one more game than Manuel Pellegrini's side. Madrid are in action at home to Almeria directly before Barca take to the field at Riazor, and the Catalans will be keen to travel to Dubai later this month with their current advantage intact. Guardiola welcomes back centre-back Gerard Pique, who missed the trip to Jerez through injury, while Sergio Busquets is available again after suspension. Rafael Marquez is short of fitness, though, and has been left out for the trip to Galicia. "He is short of physical toning, but he will soon be an essential player for us again,'' Guardiola said. Barcelona have lost just once in 23 competitive matches so far this season and the Catalans are yet to taste defeat in the Primera Division. Deportivo, meanwhile, have been a revelation so far this term. The Galicians have won eight of their 12 league matches so far and currently sit in fifth position, level on points with fourth-placed Valencia. Miguel Angel Lotina's side have won their last three league matches and midfielder Sergio Gonzalez believes they can halt Barcelona. "To stop Barcelona, you need to stop the supply line to their strikers from midfield, and to do that takes four, five or even six players, but it can be done,'' he said. But the Catalan midfielder insists defence is not the entire solution. "You can't just defend because in the end, Barcelona will score one of the chances they create - you need balance, plus a lot of support, and you can't play too far forward or too far back,'' he said. Juca and Rodolfo Bodipo are back for tomorrow night's clash, but Riki is suspended and Lassad Nouioui misses out through injury.
Preview: Real Madrid - Almeria
Dignity Restored
It seems strange that one defeat is praised more than 12 victories, but after taking it to Barcelona in the Camp Nou in a Clasico match that confirmed Madrid as a legitimate contender for the Liga title, there is a renewed feeling of pride and confidence in Manuel Pellegrini's side.
Had there been more clinical finishing, Los Blancos could have easily come out as the victors against the Blaugrana, but despite the loss, the fans are excited about their team, the players are beginning to demonstrate collective play rather than isolated moments of individualism, and Florentino Perez’s €254 million investment is beginning to show signs of paying off.
Now, with just three Liga matches and one Champions League encounter left before the winter break, Los Blancos begin the rest of the their season with the hope of continuing their improvement and putting together longer periods of attractive play.
What better way for the Men in White to showcase their improvement than to put on a show for a hungry Madridista crowd against former Merengue Hugo Sanchez and his Almeria team.
Almeria Without Alma
After losing their top striker, Alvaro Negredo (recalled from loan by Madrid over the summer and subsequently farmed out to Sevilla—likely to return to the Spanish capital next season), Almeria have been experiencing a few growing pains this season.
Sitting in 13th place in the table with just 12 points, it must be said that Hugo Sanchez’s side look a bit lost, having failed to make a push for a title this season by crashing out of the Copa del Rey against Segunda side Hercules.
With nothing to play for but pride, ‘Hugol’s’ side will look to make a match of it this Saturday with the hope of showing Real Madrid that there are more teams in La Liga than Barcelona.
FORM GUIDE
Real Madrid
November 29 v Barcelona (A) LOST 1-0 (Liga)
November 25 v FC Zurich (H) WON 1-0 (Champions League)
November 21 v Racing (H) WON 1-0 (Liga)
November 10 v Alcorcon (H) WON 1-0 (Copa del Rey)
November 7 v Atletico Madrid (A) WON 3-2 (Liga)
Almeria
November 29 v Athletic Bilbao (H) LOST 4-1 (Liga)
November 22 v Mallorca (A) LOST 3-1 (Liga)
November 12 v Hercules (H) LOST 1-0 (Copa del Rey)
November 8 v Osasuna (H) WON 2-0 (Liga)
November 1 v Zaragoza (A) LOST 2-1 (Liga)
TEAM NEWS
Real Madrid
The big news of the week is Kaka’s minor injury which has caused the Brazilian playmaker to be unfit for Saturday’s match - he may yet return for Madrid’s midweek Champions League tie at Marseille.
Additionally, Guti, Van Nistelrooy, and Metzelder have been unable to recover match fitness and continue to recuperate from their respective injuries. Aside from Kaka, the big absence is Lassana Diarra who picked up a red card in the final minute of El Clasico and will serve out his suspension in this match. Fernando Gago, who had fallen out of sorts recently and has publicly declared his desire to leave, has been included in the squad.
Probable Starting XI (4-1-2-1-2): Casillas (c) – Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Albiol, Arbeloa – Xabi Alonso – Mahamadou Diarra, Marcelo – Cristiano Ronaldo – Benzema, Higuain
Almeria
Hugo Sanchez will be pleased with having recovered two crucial members of his back line in Chico and Guilherme. They will be welcome additions as Almeria prepare to face the attack-happy Real Madrid.
Also recovered in the squad is Crusat who has overcome his knock, but Nieto has been unable to make his way back from his setback. Finally, Quillo, David Rodriguez, Solari, Borzani, and Vargas are all out of the squad list because of their respective injuries.
Probable Starting XI (4-4-2): Diego Alves – Ortiz, Chico, Acasiete, Guilherme – Piatti, Bernadello, Mbami, Crusat – Corona, Uche
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Real Madrid
With Kaka sidelined, Cristiano Ronaldo - after spending over a month out himself - comes into the squad to take on the responsibility of providing the dazzle in attack. Since their Brazilian star is out, Madrid lack an organizer on the pitch and Los Blancos will likely rely on CR9’s blazing runs down the flank to advance the ball up the pitch.
Almeria
With Negredo gone, Pablo Piatti has begun to step up as the Almeria starlet. The young Argentine is an up and coming player in La Liga and will hope to make his mark in a match against an opponent whose scouts may be on the lookout.
PREDICTION
After fluffing their feathers in El Clasico, Madrid were unlucky to not come away with at least one goal. Now, Los Blancos must build upon that momentum and clinically dispatch Almeria. With their confidence high, this match could be dangerous in that it is one that could be easily overlooked. However, with the Bernabeu salivating for beautiful play, it seems unlikely that Los Merengues will lose their focus.
Real Madrid 4-0 Almeria
Preview: Manchester City - Chelsea
City of Manchester Stadium, Eastlands, Manchester
Manchester City's 11-game unbeaten run sounds hugely impressive on the surface; no defeats since a loss to Manchester United in a closely contested 4-3 loss back in September suggests progress at Eastlands, but the reality is slightly different.
League Cup victories over a youthful Arsenal team, Fulham and Scunthorpe aside, Mark Hughes' men have only recorded one win during that run. Hard to beat maybe, but relinquishing leads to Fulham, Burnley, Liverpool and Hull City is hardly the form of pretenders to the throne.
Hughes must be aware of the importance of transforming some of those draws into wins, and soon, as the halfway point in the season rapidly approaches. Beat Chelsea and the gap will shrink, while many a pundit may begin to sing the praises of the blue side of Manchester as if it were August all over again.
Roman Abramovich meanwhile has seen an influx of foreign investors since he spearheaded the revolution of vast riches in June 2003, but none have quite matched his financial muscle like City's investors. For the first time on Saturday, the world will finally see if Sheikh Mansour's billions can overthrow the Roman Empire.
It is an empire that remains incomplete of course, as the Champions League continues to elude Abramovich, but the Premier League could well be returning to Stamford Bridge come May, especially given the strong start made under Carlo Ancelotti.
Chelsea have after all set the pace in the league thus far and show little signs of letting up, having beaten all challengers – reigning champions Manchester United included. City, although 12 points adrift of the Blues, represent another club looking to dislodge them; overcoming the wealth of talent at Hughes' disposal will deliver a further statement of intent.
FORM GUIDE
Manchester City
Man City 3-0 Arsenal (League Cup)
Man City 1-1 Hull City (Premier League)
Liverpool 2-2 Manc City (Premier League)
Man City 3-3 Burnley (Premier League)
Birmingham 0-0 Man City (Premier League)
Chelsea
Blackburn 3– 3 Chelsea – Blackburn won 4-3 on penalties (League Cup)
Arsenal 0-3 Chelsea (Premier League)
FC Porto 0-1 Chelsea (Champions League)
Chelsea 4-0 Wolves (Premier League)
Chelsea 1-0 Manchester United (Premier League)
TEAM NEWS
Manchester City
Martin Petrov is in line for a possible return to injury, while Shaun Wright-Phillips could be forced to miss the game against his former club after picking up an ankle problem against Arsenal in midweek. Fit again Brazilian Robinho may force his way into the starting XI, though he would need to dislodge Craig Bellamy, who is City's joint top goal scorer in the league.
Possible Starting XI: Given; Richards, Toure, Lescott, Bridge; De Jong, Barry, Ireland; Tevez, Adebayor, Robinho.
Chelsea
Branislav Ivanovic is likely to continue to deputise in place of Jose Bosingwa, who is still unavailable. Alex completes the missing defensive pairing, with Ivorian Salomon Kalou the only other first team squad member out after pulling up with a thigh strain against Blackburn.
Possible Starting XI: Cech; Ivanovic, Terry, Carvalho, Ashley Cole; Essien, Lampard, Ballack, Joe Cole; Anelka, Drogba.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Manchester City
For all the millions of pounds City spent this summer, one of their most consistent performers remains Stephen Ireland. The Irishman was forced out of action earlier this season through injury, but is back to full fitness and working from box to box through the centre of midfield and could be central to any success City are to have against Chelsea.
Chelsea
Leading the goal scoring charts this season, Didier Drogba has been as pivotal to Chelsea's success as ever and his performances continue to go from strength to strength. With 11 strikes of his own and a fruitful partnership with Nicolas Anelka in full swing, Kolo Toure and Joleon Lescott are in for one of their busier afternoons this season.
PREDICTION
Handshakes all-round as Chelsea edge past Manchester City, becoming the first team to beat Hughes' side at Eastlands this season.
Manchester City 1-2 Chelsea
Steven Gerrard Wants Medals Not Milestones At Liverpool
"As a player I never, ever think I am in the top this or that. Although I do have a confidence now that I am a good player, and that I can compete at a high level, but that's it. "It's great to have these accolades, but it doesn't mean much without prizes. "Football excites me and the big prizes excite me even more for club and country. You want to win them all. I want to win what I can for Liverpool, and for England, and I'd love to look back at the end of it and feel as if I have achieved everything I can in that respect." "At that stage when I started out, a long career wasn't even in my mind, because maybe you don't think you're good enough, or you dare not look ahead. "You just want one game, then a few games, and you can't start thinking you have made it. Not ever. "I never dreamed I would get so many games, and it is a great feeling to hit that landmark."
"It is a really proud thing to reach milestones from a personal point of view, a great feeling. But I would like to think when I hang up my boots I will look back on prizes not personal milestones," he said, according to Press Association Sport.
"When you are such a young age you don't look too far ahead. It has always been drummed into me by my dad and my coaches not to look too far ahead," he added.
Inter Coach Jose Mourinho: My Tactics Will Decide Whether Balotelli Plays Against Juventus
Balotelli has indeed been included in the 21 man squad for the high-profile clash at the Stadio Olimpico. Meanwhile, it's confirmed midfielder Wesley Sneijder will miss out due to injury.
During the 1-1 draw in Turin last season, the player was reportedly harassed by the crowd as they directed chants towards him which may have been of a racist nature and the clubs are keen to avoid another similar incident.
There were suspicions that the starlet could be left out by coach Jose Mourinho in order to avoid any controversy, but the Portuguese boss has indicated that will not be a factor in his decision.
When asked if he would omit the Italy Under-21 international, the former Chelsea manager explained only his tactics would dictate whether Balotelli was present on the pitch or not.
"Purely technical [choices]," he responded to inter.it, seemingly unconcerned with the sub-plot developing around the match.
Portsmouth Confirm Players Have Been Paid
"They had a big, big debt to deal with and they've put a lot of money in already and the new refinancing is very close now."
Reports circulated on Thursday evening that, for the second time this season, Pompey had been unable to pay their players.
However, Storrie has today revealed that the situation has now been resolved.
"Yes, they have been [paid]," Storrie confirmed, speaking to Sky Sports News.
"I'm pleased to say that through the funds we had in the bank this morning we managed to get 25% first thing and this afternoon Ali [al Faraj] and his advisers have sorted out the small problem there was and it's now done.
"The players have been paid in full I'm pleased to say. I understand the refinancing that they're getting together - because there's a lot of debt they have to deal with - is actually going very well now and they want a bit of understanding from the fans.
Manchester City Boss Mark Hughes: Arsene Wenger Handshake Row Is History
"Everybody has had their say on what happened. "I have my view, as I tried to articulate after the game. I am sure Arsene has his view on it as well. "But that is between myself and Arsene, not anybody else. "It is not something I am not looking to dwell on. It is passed, why revisit it? We are grown men, we just get on with it. "From my point of view the issue is over."
Hughes insists that the incident has been blown out of all proportion and now needs consigning to the history books, as he prepares his side for the visit of Chelsea on Saturday.
Wenger himself has given no reason for the snub, though it is widely believed that Hughes swore at him during the game.
"We keep revisiting things that have already occurred," Hughes told reporters at his Friday press conference.
Arsene Wenger: I Am A Bad Loser, But I Wouldn't Shake Mark Hughes' Hand Even If We Had Won
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has spoken out over his refusal to offer his hand to Mark Hughes at the end of the Gunners' recent 3-0 loss to Manchester City.
The Frenchman claimed that it is important courtesy and behaviour are upheld, as opposed to a ceremonial handshake, and indicated that even if Arsenal had gone on to beat City, he still would not have shaken Hughes' hand at the end of the game.
"By coincidence I manage my 500th game and I think I have shaken hands 497 times," he said in a pre-match press conference.
"It is a courtesy, ceremonial, but the most important is the courtesy and behaviour [during the game]. I do not deny I am a bad loser," Wenger conceded.
"I would have done exactly the same had we have won or lost the game, and I don't change. I maintain exactly what I did," he said defiantly.
Wenger has been witness to a number of touchline wars, including tiffs with former Tottenham Hotspur manager Martin Jol, and ex-West Ham United boss Alan Pardew. However, he added that he would not comment on managers to the press after any on-field incident.
"I treat this kind of thing with distance, I don't want to make a fuss.
"You have seen me have [altercations] on the touchline but you will never see me make a comment about a manager after the game."
Posts
