tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14134522290542154942011-12-31T14:51:36.208ZYour definitive English language source for South American football news, views, transfer gossip and anything else interesting.Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.comBlogger4321100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-84184355834753033532008-12-29T19:30:00.005Z2008-12-29T19:46:47.985Z

Reports in the Russian press suggest that Brazilian legend Zico will quit his post as coach of Uzbek side FC Bunyodkor to join CSKA Moscow within the next couple of days.Sport Express suggests that the 55 year old has already communicated his desire to leave and that the "last formalities should be completed within the next 24 hours".If that is the case, then Zico would be free to negotiate with

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-73546303047352226412008-12-28T18:51:00.005Z2008-12-28T19:04:29.686Z

Fresh from securing the Argentine Apertura, Boca Juniors playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme has his sights set on continent-wide success in next year's Copa Libertadores.Riquelme, 30, already has three Libertadores triumphs with Boca to his name, but that has not quelled his desire to add to his medal collection with a fourth in 2009.“What is it I want now? First of all, to rest, because this has been

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-38264413438772696332008-12-28T14:37:00.008Z2008-12-28T15:23:25.672Z

Flamengo's highly-rated left-back Juan could be set for a January move to Europe according to reports in the Brazilian press, although his agent has indicated that there is yet to be any movement in relation to a transfer.Juan, 26, was recently chosen as the best left-back of the Brazilian Serie A 2008 after some superb performances for Flamengo throughout the campaign, and received an

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-79435302564598300072008-12-28T11:08:00.004Z2008-12-28T11:25:41.749Z

San Lorenzo are locked in talks over an extension to their loan deal for striker Gonzalo Bergessio, as they look to build a team capable of challenging for the 2009 Copa Libertadores.Bergessio, 24, has scored 13 goals in 35 games since joining on a temporary basis from Portuguese side Benfica, and San Lorenzo coach Miguel Angel Russo is keen to keep hold of him, especially with fellow strikers

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-49746767410579190032008-12-28T10:43:00.005Z2008-12-28T11:27:12.754Z

New Corinthians signing Ronaldo has stated that media talk about his ample frame is misguided, and affirmed that he will be in a match-fit state by the conclusion of the club's pre-season preparations.Ronaldo has born the brunt of many press jibes about his figure since being presented as a Corinthians player on the 12th December, with reports suggesting that he weighed in at 95kg.Noted

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-14174157258247571262008-12-26T16:37:00.003Z2008-12-26T17:01:53.097Z

Boca Juniors soon to be technical-director, Carlos Bianchi, has identified the position of goalkeeper as the one they really need to strengthen for next year's Copa Libertadores and believes that Getafe custodian Roberto Abbondanzieri could be the man for the role.Carlos Ischia's side may have secured the Argentine Apertura title, but with young goalkeeper Javier Garcia prone to errors and

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-27376599580097822682008-12-25T08:45:00.002Z2008-12-25T08:52:04.959Z

Ho, ho, ho... no, that's not the shout of some Harlem pimp, but is in fact St Nicholas, coming to wish all our readers a Merry Christmas.Hope Santa brings you all everything you wanted, and we look forward to seeing you back on the site once the holiday frivolities have ceased... i.e. once that Bucks Fizz hangover has worn off enough for you to focus on a computer screen for more than a couple of

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-68128311286675260152008-12-24T18:26:00.007Z2008-12-29T20:24:17.727Z

Boca Juniors were crowned Argentine Apertura 2008 champions on Tuesday night, despite going down to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Tigre.As the three-team playoff for the Apertura came to its conclusion, Tigre knew that they needed to win by two clear goals to overhaul a Riquelme-less Boca and take the title, with San Lorenzo already out of running.Diego Cagna's team gave it their best shot and

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-70531160079280385012008-12-21T19:41:00.004Z2008-12-21T20:14:27.096Z

Colo Colo sealed the Chilean Clausura championship on Saturday with a 3-1 win at home to Deportivo Palestino in the second leg of the playoff final.Palestino had done well to come back from a goal behind to draw 1-1 in their home leg of the tie, and showed great heart once more as they came back from Lucas Barrios' half-hour strike to level matters before the break through Luis Pavez.Barrios'

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-54401441046515230782008-12-21T18:55:00.003Z2008-12-21T19:37:17.155Z

Boca Juniors ended San Lorenzo's hopes of winning the 2008 Apertura with a 3-1 victory on Saturday that leaves Carlos Ischia's side in pole position for the title ahead of the final playoff game between them and Tigre on Tuesday.San Lorenzo went into the match knowing that a win would secure them the championship, and had two golden opportunities to take the lead in the first 45 minutes - Nestor

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-73111287946097322092008-12-20T13:01:00.005Z2008-12-20T13:17:59.511Z

Ecuadorian side Barcelona Sporting Club have announced that former Real Madrid coach Benito Floro will take charge of the side in time for the 2009 Serie A Championship.The Spaniard, who has signed a two year contract, becomes the latest coach charged with returning Barcelona to their previous glories after years of relative obscurity.The joint most successful side in the history of the

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-80762962022192354162008-12-20T12:48:00.003Z2008-12-20T12:59:38.442Z

Internacional are lining up a possible move for Hamburg attacking midfielder Thiago Neves according to a report on Brazilian radio.Rádio Gaúcha suggests that the Internacional board are in the process of gathering the necessary funds to make a move for Neves, 23, who is thought to be keen on a move back to Brazil after struggling to settle in Germany.Delcyr Sonda - the investor behind the

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-71947250689412003662008-12-20T12:28:00.005Z2008-12-20T13:41:47.710Z

Argentina youth coach Sergio Batista has named his twenty man squad for the 2009 South American U-20 Championship, which kicks off on the 19th January in Venezuela.Batista's side go into the tournament as one of the favourites, having been victorious in the same age category in five of the last seven World Cups, and will rely on a squad of primarily home based players for the competition.The

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-3269759223551475032008-12-20T12:11:00.004Z2008-12-20T12:24:56.636Z

FIFA have elected to lift the sanctions imposed on the Peruvian Football Association that had seen the national team and club sides from the country suspended from international competition, it was announced on Saturday.A statement released by world football's governing body simply stated that: "The Executive Committee has agreed to lift the suspension of the Peruvian Football Association."Peru

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-23616959612600478912008-12-19T23:27:00.004Z2008-12-19T23:49:57.535Z

Bolivian striker Marcelo Moreno has indicated that he would be happy to return to former club Cruzeiro at the turn of the year, but believes that his current employers Shakhtar Donetsk would be unlikely to sanction such a move.Shakhtar paid a reported €9million for Moreno in May of this year, but the 21 year old has thus far struggled to make the expected impact in the Ukraine, and seems to be

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-71623810203550807092008-12-19T19:43:00.007Z2008-12-20T00:06:13.838Z

LDU Quito attacking midfielder Luis Bolanos is confident that the Copa Libertadores winners have a chance of toppling European champions Manchester United ahead of Sunday's FIFA World Club Cup final.Bolanos, 23, was one of the stars of LDU's successful Libertadores campaign and has continued that form into the World Club Cup, scoring a superb freekick in his side's semi-final victory over Pachuca

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-70827936523764448792008-12-17T22:48:00.008Z2008-12-20T21:18:12.865Z

San Lorenzo drew first blood in the triangular tournament that will decide the winners of the Argentine Apertura 2008 with a 2-1 victory against Tigre on Wednesday evening.Miguel Angel Russo's side began the game in the fine form, building a two goal lead for themselves inside the opening twenty-five minutes through strikes from Pablo Barrientos and Gonzalo Bergessio.Their dominance continued

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-62593064309939764702008-12-16T19:51:00.005Z2008-12-16T20:07:28.350Z

Departing LDU Quito head coach Edgardo Bauza believes that his side can win the 2008 FIFA World Club Cup, although he admits that it will be difficult task due to the quality of their opposition.LDU will face Mexican side Pachuca in the semi-final of the competition on Wednesday, with the prize of a likely tie against European champions Manchester United in the final at stake for both teams.Bauza

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-68922247690454326852008-12-16T19:10:00.004Z2008-12-16T19:27:08.093Z

Gremio midfielder Rafael Carioca completed his €8million move to Spartak Moscow on Tuesday, signing a five-year contract with the Russian side after undergoing a medical examination at the club's training facilities.Carioca, 19, will join his fellow Brazilians Mozart and Welliton at the Luzhniki Stadium and could soon have another familar name in his midst, with young Gremio defender Leo possibly

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-62821672708870941172008-12-15T21:27:00.004Z2008-12-15T23:07:30.830Z

Brazilian defender Thiago Silva told reporters that he hopes to become an important figure at AC Milan as he arrived in Italy on Monday to complete a medical and sign a four-year contract with the Rossoneri.Milan have agreed a €10 million fee with Fluminense for the services of Silva, 24, who will join up with his new team-mates in January, but won't be able to take part in first team activities

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-53490813703606207202008-12-15T20:57:00.006Z2008-12-15T21:38:57.116Z

River Plate coach in waiting Néstor Gorosito has confirmed that the club will be forced to sell either Diego Buonanotte or Radamel Falcao Garcia in January in order to balance the books.Gorosito will inherit a River side that finished bottom of the Apertura tournament when he takes over at the turn of the year, and will face further problems with the news that he is likely to lose at least one of

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-88142118769338079672008-12-15T20:26:00.005Z2008-12-15T20:53:27.343Z

Deportivo Palestino and Colo Colo drew 1-1 in a fiery first leg of the Chilean Clausura final on Sunday, in a match that saw the home side fight back from a first half deficit despite playing most of the second period with just nine men.Palestino were playing in their first Clausura final in over twenty years and the underdogs did little to improve their chances of taking the title when they

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-58873869678470885742008-12-14T22:11:00.004Z2008-12-14T22:40:52.309Z

Reports in the Italian press indicate that Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is a firm admirer of AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato and could make a move for the young Brazilian in the January transfer window.Wenger is likely to have funds to spend at the turn of the year to strengthen his stuttering squad, following a board meeting on Friday in which the budget for the winter transfer window was

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-71795865325462033862008-12-14T21:06:00.006Z2008-12-14T22:00:17.641Z

Boca Juniors, San Lorenzo and Tigre will play a mini-tournament to determine the winner of the 2008 Apertura after all three teams won their final day fixtures to finish level on 39 points at the end of the regular campaign.Boca raced into an early 3-0 lead against Colon at the Bombenera through a double strike from Luciano Figueroa and another from Juan Roman Riquelme inside the opening half an

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-39813616546381040552008-12-14T18:57:00.008Z2008-12-20T00:04:00.613Z

Young Coritiba striker Keirrison has confirmed that he is content to see out his contract with the Coxa Branca rather than try to force a move to Palmeiras in the next couple of months.Keirrison scored 21 goals in 31 appearances for Coritiba in the 2008 Brazilian league season - a total that saw him share first place in the top-scorer charts with Kleber Pereira and Washington, and which attracted

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-1829088835249830492008-12-14T14:28:00.005Z2008-12-14T14:50:13.557Z

Reports in the Italian press suggest that Inter Milan striker Adriano may have played his last game for the club, with Flamengo thought to be leading the race for his signature.Adriano, 26, failed to make the squad for Inter's game against Chievo Verona on Sunday, with rumours circulating that his absence was due to an alcohol relapse, rather than injury, as the club's official statement had

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-6407409934790440732008-12-14T13:05:00.004Z2008-12-14T13:23:58.889Z

United Arab Emirates side Al-Ain are rumoured to have lodged a $7million bid for Colo Colo striker Lucas Barrios, who is also attracting interest from a number of European clubs.Barrios, 24, has scored 35 goals for Colo Colo in 2008, and such form has seen his stock rise throughout the world game, with Greek side Panathinaikos, as well as clubs in Germany and Italy, expressing a firm interest in

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-20632554790352638672008-12-14T12:24:00.001Z2008-12-14T12:24:38.309Z

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-44158167722748306802008-12-14T11:19:00.005Z2008-12-15T23:06:45.679Z

Brazilian side Santos are set to launch a bid to sign Roma full-back Cicinho in January, following the much-publicised rift between the 28 year old and Giallorossi coach Luciano Spalletti.Cicinho has struggled to hold down a regular first team place since joining Roma from Real Madrid in the summer of 2007 for €11million.Despite recent claims from his agent Ricardo Sarti that his client has a

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-689463998734442322008-12-11T13:15:00.000Z2008-12-11T13:15:01.948Z

Fluminense president Roberto Horcades has suggested that attacking midfielder Thiago Neves could rejoin the club from Hamburg in 2009, as the German club have failed to make any payment for the 23 year old.Hamburg spent €7.5million to sign the highly-rated Neves over the summer, but with the global financial crisis hitting hard, it seems that Fluminense are yet to receive the fee."As of yet, we

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-29856153935897531762008-12-11T13:00:00.000Z2008-12-11T13:00:01.415Z

Argentina coach Diego Maradona has confirmed that Juan Roman Riquelme and Juan Sebastian Veron are both in his plans in the lead-up to the 2010 World Cup, as he feels it is vital to have an experienced playmaker in the side.Riquelme, 30, and Veron, 33, were both absent from Maradona's first squad as coach due to club commitments, but having watched a number of games involving the pair in recent

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-33226984659872327222008-12-10T23:06:00.004Z2008-12-10T23:36:37.191Z

Corinthians are but a signed contract away from completing their extraordinary swoop for the Fenômeno, Ronaldo, with the three time world player of the year set to put pen to paper on Friday.Reports yesterday suggested that Ronaldo, 32, would sign his one-year contract with the Timão on Wednesday, but those reports appear to have been wide of the mark.His agent Fabiano Farah instead confirmed

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-16766875054496605052008-12-09T12:45:00.000Z2008-12-09T12:45:00.690Z

Russian side Spartak Moscow are thought to be on the verge of completing an €8million deal for Gremio midfielder Rafael Carioca, with the player expected in Moscow on Tuesday to complete a medical and sign on the dotted line.Carioca, 19, has been mightily impressive in defensive midfield for Gremio since being given his chance in the first team by coach Celso Roth at the start of the 2008

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-61127190273593604642008-12-08T22:26:00.004Z2008-12-08T22:56:37.045Z

San Lorenzo, Tigre and Boca Juniors will go into the final weekend of the Argentine Apertura level on points at the top of the table after Boca were held to a goalless draw by Gimnasia La Plata on Sunday.The solitary point for the Xeneize gave their two title rivals the perfect opportunity to draw level, and both took full advantage, although with dramatically differing levels of comfort.Tigre

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-27494452640023825502008-12-08T18:56:00.004Z2008-12-08T19:18:04.171Z

Sao Paulo continued their recent dominance of the Brazilian Championship by claiming their third straight title following a 1-0 win away to Goias on Sunday.A suspiciously offside looking goal from Borges mid-way through the first half was enough to seal the title for the Tricolor Paulista, despite the best efforts of nearest challengers Gremio, who finished three points shy following a 2-0 win

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-82234400041174649082008-12-07T11:30:00.004Z2008-12-07T12:21:40.188Z

Colo Colo and Deportivo Palestino will contest the final of the Chilean Clausura after both sides progressed from the semi-finals on the away goals rule.Colo Colo had drawn 3-3 away to Cobreloa Calama in the first leg of their semi-final, but were soon behind in Saturday's second leg when Argentine striker Rodrigo Mannara put Cobreloa ahead inside the opening 15 minutes.However, with the

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-91119819004140433302008-12-07T11:03:00.004Z2008-12-07T11:20:26.243Z

Diego Maradona has been met by extraordinary scenes across India during his charity tour of the country, with thousands of people congregating to get a glimpse of the Argentina coach in Calcutta in Saturday.Maradona attended the opening of a football school earlier in the day - his last in India - having already been a guest of honour at a charity dinner and visited the Mother Theresa convent in

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-50996359696388595482008-12-07T10:36:00.004Z2008-12-07T10:58:55.337Z

The Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) have confirmed that they have intercepted a envelope of money bound for Wagner Tardelli, referee of the final weekend clash between Goias and Sao Paulo.Sao Paulo require just one point from Sunday's game in order to seal a third consecutive Brazilian League triumph, with Gremio waiting in the wings should they fail to do so.Although the CBF have been quick

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-70168135763961264272008-12-06T10:56:00.005Z2008-12-06T11:22:14.783Z

The Uruguayan Apertura championship will fully resume this Saturday following a two week break due to fan violence in the fixture between Danubio and Nacional on the 16th November.On that day, Nacional fans broke their way through the fencing surrounding the pitch at the final whistle and preceded to battle with Danubio supporters in a mass brawl that included the use of metal bars and other such

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-15214867535414823042008-12-06T10:27:00.005Z2008-12-08T19:46:57.310Z

Arsenal de Sarandi midfielder Alejandro Gomez has admitted that he would be content to move to Europe in January, but insists that there has been no concrete approach for his services.Gomez, 20, has played a part in all but one of Arsenal's Apertura 2008 fixtures, scoring six goals in the process and further enhancing his reputation as one of the most exciting upcoming talents in Argentine

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-72367098123062400372008-12-05T21:33:00.004Z2008-12-05T21:51:08.582Z

Reports in the Brazilian press suggest that German side Hertha Berlin are close to completing a deal for Fluminense full-back Júnior César, despite heavily rumoured interest from Werder Bremen.César, 26, is expected to play his last game for the Tricolor carioca in their final game of the Brazilian Championship against Ipatinga on Sunday, with his agent Pablo Tonietto currently in Germany to tie

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-50415764700488052382008-12-05T20:34:00.004Z2008-12-05T20:55:12.816Z

Newly-promoted Corinthians' continued search for recognised name signings has led them to Estudiantes and two-time Italian league winner Juan Sebastian Veron, whom they are keen to bring on board for the 2009 Brazilian Championship.Veron, 33, is out of contract in June of next year and his agent Miguel Pires has told the Brazilian press that he is set to meet with Corinthians president Andres

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-57581370760239352812008-12-04T18:10:00.005Z2008-12-04T19:55:45.126Z

Internacional secured their first ever Copa Sudamericana triumph on Wednesday as an extra time strike from Nilmar gave them a 2-1 aggregate victory over Estudiantes of Argentina.Estudiantes travelled to Porto Alegre a goal down from the first leg, and showed plenty of attacking intent from the off as they looked to find a way back into the tie.Despite their intentions, Leonardo Astrada's side had

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-72932890375342268962008-12-02T12:45:00.000Z2008-12-02T12:45:00.617Z

Real Madrid have identified Carlos Tevez and Angel Di Maria as two of their primary transfer targets according to reports in Argentina.Tevez has been linked with Madrid ever since Ruud van Nistelrooy was ruled out for the season with a knee injury, but despite Spanish claims that he will join Los Blancos in January, it seems more likely that he will move to the Bernabeu at the end of the

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-32138257858767438662008-12-01T19:52:00.005Z2008-12-01T20:16:13.903Z

Sao Paulo missed a golden opportunity to secure their third consecutive Brazilian league title when they were held to a 1-1 draw at home to struggling Fluminense on Sunday, allowing Gremio to close to within three points going into the final round of games.Fluminense, their top flight status still not assured, put up a valiant fight against the league leaders and took the lead early in the second

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-27171493208293038822008-12-01T19:16:00.002Z2008-12-01T19:49:35.998Z

Two goals from influential playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme took Boca Juniors to victory over Racing Club on Sunday, keeping them two points clear of the chasing pack with just two games left to play in the Apertura championship.Boca created the better chances in the opening half at the Bombonera, but it wasn't until the last ten minutes of the half that they finally got the opener. Riquelme played

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-53541437041885039552008-11-28T13:00:00.000Z2008-11-28T13:00:00.445Z

Vasco da Gama striker Edmundo turned a few heads when he turned up for training on Thursday in his new ride... a Mini Cooper.Team-mates assumed that the car belonged to young midfielder Madson, in keeping with his diminutive stature, and were highly surprised when they discovered it belonged to Edmundo, famed for his explosiveness both on and off the field.

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-73300180566871311832008-11-28T12:45:00.000Z2008-11-28T12:45:01.056Z

Brazil U-20 coach Rogério Lourenço has named his twenty man squad for the South American U-20 Championship that will take place in Venezuela between the 19th January and the 9th February 2009.Corinthians striker Dentinho, fresh from his side's promotion to back to Serie A, is expected to play a prominent role during the tournament, while Marquinhos - currently of Vitoria but a target for

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-51714540064793915672008-11-28T12:30:00.000Z2008-11-28T12:30:00.554Z

Italian side Genoa are thought to be lining up a January move for Colo Colo's prolific striker Lucas Barrios according to reports in Chile, with a formal offer expected within the next week.Barrios, 24, has scored an average of nearly a goal per game since joining Colo Colo from Mexican side Atlas at the turn of the year, and it is therefore no surprise that Genoa are interested in linking him up

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-70028092736009966392008-11-28T08:40:00.000Z2008-11-28T08:40:00.451Z

Newly-promoted Corinthians are planning an audacious move for 'El Fenomeno' Ronaldo to mark their return to the Brazilian top flight next season.Corinthians are considered to be the second-best supported team in the whole of Brazil and are keen to reinstate their image as one of the country's elite clubs after financial difficulties emanating from their partnership with MSI have shackled them

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-16734972173446484322008-11-27T19:54:00.005Z2008-11-27T20:27:01.735Z

Brazilian side Internacional took a large step towards their first ever Copa Sudamericana triumph with a 1-0 victory away to Estudiantes in the first leg of the final on Wednesday night.Estudiantes were defending a forty-plus game unbeaten run at home going into the fixture, but despite going down to the ten men early in the second half due to the dismissal of Pablo Guinazu, it was Internacional

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-29278692566543585482008-11-23T11:23:00.002Z2008-11-23T11:43:44.929Z

Brazil, Italy, Egypt and the United States will square off against one another in Group B of the 2009 Confederations Cup in South Africa.The tournament is staged every four years as a pre-cursor to the following year's World Cup, and includes the champions from each of the six football confederations, as well as the last World Cup winner and the host nation.Brazil come into the 2009 edition as

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-91492404910230805262008-11-22T11:10:00.004Z2008-11-22T11:38:32.184Z

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has described Chile's bid to host the 2015 Women's World Cup as a "serious proposal," and indicated that they and Canada are the only two nations to have so far expressed an interest in hosting the competition.The Women's U-20 World Cup is currently taking place in Chile and Blatter is impressed by the manner in which the tournament has been organised by the host

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-53353526165441904862008-11-22T09:45:00.000Z2008-11-22T09:45:00.225Z

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has given the Peruvian Football Federation until Monday to resolve their issues with the country's government or face an international competition ban.The Peruvian Institute of Sports (IPD) refuse to recognise Manuel Burga as the PFP president - a feud that has already caused Peru to be stripped of the right to host the 2009 South American U-20 Championship - and

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-43753902434300492112008-11-22T09:30:00.002Z2008-11-22T09:30:00.840Z

Bayer Leverkusen defender Arturo Vidal has admitted that he is proud to be linked with a move to AC Milan following reports in the Italian press that the Rossoneri are keeping tabs on the young Chilean.Vidal, 21, has been in impressive form in Leverkusen's superb start to the Bundesliga season and with his stock rising by the day, the Corriere Dello Sport suggests that Milan would be willing to

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-88328882156718374822008-11-21T20:56:00.005Z2008-11-21T21:47:10.482Z

Internacional and Estudiantes will dispute the seventh Copa Sudamericana final after disposing of Chivas Guadalajara and Argentinos Juniors in their respective semi-final second legs in midweek.Internacional carried a 2-0 victory into the home leg of their tie with Mexican side Chivas and were able to wrap up the contest within the first 45 minutes as Andres D'Alessandro struck twice from dead

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-28523250968023034362008-11-21T20:26:00.005Z2008-11-21T20:52:38.788Z

Reports in the Spanish press suggest that Atletico Madrid will make a move for Estudiantes full-back Marcos Angeleri in the January transfer window in order to fill their problem right-back position.Atletico have been forced into playing the likes of Pablo Ibanez, Luis Perea and Antonio Lopez out of position on the right hand side of their defence thus far this season, and will look to strengthen

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-69695555242154194642008-11-20T08:35:00.002Z2008-11-20T08:35:01.250Z

Just one game into his international managerial career and Diego Maradona is already just two wins away from equalling the number of victories he managed during 23 games as a club coach in the mid-nineties.Argentina's 1-0 win over Scotland on Wednesday was a positive beginning to what is sure to be an interesting couple of years, and although the match wasn't able to live up to the pre-match hype

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-78422752335026744962008-11-15T08:52:00.005Z2008-11-15T10:52:56.715Z

In an interview with Brazilian sports daily Placar, Arsenal midfielder Denilson has asserted that he is determined to hold down his current first-team slot in North London and hopes that success at international level will follow in the near future.Denilson, 20, moved to Arsenal from Sao Paulo in 2006 with a big reputation, having captained Brazil at every level he had appeared for them at. After

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-1913400721590671492008-11-14T21:00:00.002Z2008-11-14T21:15:47.883Z

Internacional striker Nilmar is one of a number of South American players to be linked with a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid in January following the news that Ruud van Nistelrooy will be out of action for at least six months with a knee injury.Nilmar endured a tough year at Lyon in 2004/05 in his only previous foray into European football, but the 24 year old bounced back well from that

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-18086724521218485032008-11-14T20:30:00.006Z2008-11-14T21:17:22.905Z

Internacional took a massive step towards reaching their first ever Copa Sudamericana final with a 2-0 victory away to Mexican side Chivas Guadalajara on Wednesday.Chivas wasted a number of good chances - Omar Arellano guilty of the worst miss midway through the first half - and were made to pay, as excellent strikes in the last twenty minutes from Nilmar and Alex secured Internacional a healthy

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-16851314277870800832008-11-12T12:30:00.000Z2008-11-12T12:30:00.742Z

Ariel Ortega has suggested that he would be happy to return to River Plate following the resignation of Diego Simeone, but insisted that club president José María Aguilar would have the final say in any move.Simeone lost patience with Ortega, 34, after the playmaker missed a number of training sessions for various reasons, some of which were linked to his ongoing alcoholism. Ortega was banished

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-47214187978637727122008-11-12T08:30:00.000Z2008-11-12T08:30:00.856Z

Chivas Guadalajara are set to sign Shakhtar Donetsk forward Nery Castillo to a short-term loan contract as cover for the remainder of their Mexican Apertura and Copa Sudamericana campaigns.Castillo, 24, has been using Chivas' training facilities in an attempt to regain fitness ahead of Mexico's vital World Cup Qualifier against Honduras next Wednesday after being frozen out at Manchester City,

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-33740300212516223012008-11-11T20:17:00.004Z2008-11-11T20:36:01.592Z

River Plate youth team coach Gabriel Rodriguez will take charge of the first team until the end of the Apertura tournament following the resignation of Diego Simeone, it was confirmed on Tuesday.Rodriguez conducted training for the first time on Tuesday morning as he began preparations for River's weekend tie away to Independiente, but had to do so without Leonardo Ponzio, who will miss the

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-53535368098092810912008-11-11T19:59:00.004Z2008-11-11T20:13:11.076Z

Benfica wide-man Angel Di Maria looks set to miss out on Diego Maradona's debut as Argentina coach after picking up an injury in his side's 2-0 Uefa Cup defeat to Galatasary last Thursday.Di Maria completed the ninety minutes, but was unable to train the next day and will now be out of action for at least the next couple of weeks, ruling him out of the friendly clash with Scotland on the 19th

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-38519395941858808512008-11-11T12:45:00.000Z2008-11-11T12:45:00.964Z

New Argentina coach Diego Maradona has insisted that he is keeping tabs on a number of potential national team call-ups despite naming a fairly conservative squad for his first game in charge.Maradona's selection for the friendly against Scotland on the 19th November bore a striking resemblance to the squads picked by former coach Alfio Basile, with seemingly little done to ease Argentina's

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-64888054145398470532008-11-11T08:30:00.002Z2008-11-11T20:15:30.829Z

Real Madrid's new Brazilian forward Alípio Duarte Brandão has revealed that his idol is former Real Madrid, Barcelona and Inter Milan striker Ronaldo.Madrid moved quickly to secure the signature of Alipio, 16, from Portuguese club Rio Ave, with Chelsea and a number of other big European clubs said to have been eyeing the Brasilia-born forward.Alipio will arrive in Spain with his agent

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-62365537147016133502008-11-10T20:40:00.004Z2008-11-10T21:15:32.815Z

An 88th minute winner from Ze Luis ensured that Sao Paulo maintained their two point lead at the top of the Brazilian Championship with a 3-2 win over relegation threatened Portuguesa on Saturday.Muricy Ramalho's side led twice, only to be pegged back on both occasions by the plucky home team, but there was nothing that Portuguesa could do when Ze Luis headed Sao Paulo ahead for the third time

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-34444508492792095312008-11-10T19:57:00.007Z2008-11-10T20:36:24.777Z

Boca Juniors and San Lorenzo continue to share top spot in the Argentine Apertura following late winners in Round 14, while Diego Simeone signed off his River Plate coaching career in style with a six-goal thriller at El Monumental on Sunday.Juan Roman Riquelme was Boca's hero once more - having scored the winning goal against San Lorenzo in Round 13 - as he curled home at superb last-minute

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-73779130243990031772008-11-10T12:45:00.000Z2008-11-10T12:45:00.237Z

Brazilian striking legend Romario has indicated that he would love to see Ronaldo pull on the shirt of Flamengo during an interview with Brazilian sports paper 'Globoesporte'.Romario left Barcelona to join Flamengo in 1995 and enjoyed another two spells at the Rubro-Negro during the nineties, sandwiched between his time in Spain with Valencia. He admits that the club still holds a special place

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-32688234737163593212008-11-10T08:35:00.001Z2008-11-10T18:11:58.820Z

Reports in the Brazilian media suggest that Arsenal have agreed a pre-contract deal with Palmeiras forward Lenny that will see the twenty year old join the North London side on a free transfer in January.Lenny's Palmeiras contract is due to expire at the end of the Brazilian season in December, and Arsenal are said to have sent a fax to the Sao Paulo side, making them aware of the agreement that

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-56839868201493968812008-11-08T12:45:00.000Z2008-11-08T12:45:00.476Z

Americo Gallego has emerged as the man most likely to replace Diego Simeone as coach of River Plate according to reports in the Argentine media.Simeone resigned on Friday following his side's elimination from the Copa Sudamericana at the hands of Chivas. River are likely to have a temporary coach in place until the end of the Apertura, but will want to get a permanent replacement on board in time

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-29766009225302225752008-11-08T10:54:00.006Z2008-11-08T11:19:10.022Z

Brazilian superstar Robinho believes that he can prove himself to be the best player in the world at Manchester City following his transfer deadline-day move from Real Madrid.The 24 year old has enjoyed a generally positive start to his career at the Eastlands, scoring six goals, including a hat-trick against Stoke, and providing a number of assists for his team-mates.In an interview with

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-91862405958702728142008-11-08T09:40:00.006Z2008-11-08T10:03:13.177Z

The South American Football Confederation (CSF) announced on Friday that Peru have lost the right to host the 2009 South American U-20 Championships due to an ongoing power struggle inside the Peruvian Football Association (FPF).The government of Peru's Institute of Sports (IPD) does not recognise Manuel Burga as the head of the FPF, and the dispute is causing massive problems for Peru, with FIFA

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-22353594721911444822008-11-08T09:00:00.000Z2008-11-08T09:00:00.868Z

Spanish side Villarreal are set to offer their Chilean coach Manuel Pellegrini a new one year extension to his contract, taking him through until the summer of 2011.Pellegrini, 55, led Villarreal to a hugely impressive second place finish in La Liga last season - a position that they currently occupy this time around, sitting just one point off leaders Barcelona.With qualification from their

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-48161655400255307632008-11-08T08:30:00.000Z2008-11-08T08:30:00.175Z

Diego Simeone will take charge of River Plate for the last time when they face Huracan at El Monumental on Sunday after tendering his resignation following their Copa Sudamericana defeat to Chivas on Thursday.River currently sit bottom of the Argentine Apertura with just six games left to play having endured their worst ever start to a campaign, and with the chance of a continent-wide trophy now

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-87579605381549771682008-11-07T21:54:00.004Z2008-11-07T22:29:37.731Z

Chivas Guadalajara and Internacional reached the final four of the Copa Sudamericana on Thursday night after maintaining their first leg advantages over River Plate and Boca Juniors respectively.Chivas had scored a surprise 2-1 victory at El Monumental, but did not have things all their own way back on home soil as River came out of the traps at full pace, taking a 3-2 lead on aggregate courtesy

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-63565764581564927712008-11-07T12:45:00.000Z2008-11-07T12:45:01.198Z

Uruguay striker Diego Forlan will return to the international stage after he was named in coach Oscar Tabarez's twenty man squad for the nation's friendly with France on the 19th November.Forlan, 29, missed last month's World Cup qualifiers against Argentina and Bolivia through injury, and Tabarez will be glad to get his star striker back in action for Uruguay's final fixture of 2008.Villarreal

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-57074172863617729702008-11-07T07:45:00.000Z2008-11-07T07:45:00.974Z

Diego Maradona and his assistant Carlos Bilardo had successful talks with Barcelona star Lionel Messi on Thursday as the new Argentine national team coaching set-up continue their tour of Europe."We had a very positive meeting with Messi," Bilardo told reporters as he left the hotel Majestic in Barcelona following talks with the 21 year old."It is good that he wants to be involved in all the

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-9898053380777376362008-11-06T20:12:00.006Z2008-11-06T21:48:35.846Z

The Ansa news agency is reporting that Fluminense defender Thiago Silva is close to agreeing a January move to Italian side Inter Milan.The highly-rated defender, 24, was linked with a move to AC Milan this summer but it is Inter that look set to seal the deal, with their sporting director Marco Branca scheduled to meet with Silva's agent Paulo Tonietto on Friday to thrash out the final details

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-49756686031966992002008-11-06T19:05:00.006Z2008-11-06T19:44:36.953Z

Estudiantes and Argentinos Juniors set-up an all Argentine semi-final in the Copa Sudamericana after both progressed at the expense of Brazilian opposition on Wednesday night.A 2-0 win at home had put Estudiantes in pole position ahead of the away leg of their tie with Botafogo, and Los Pincharratas doubled their advantage by half time to all but put the tie beyond their hosts.Botafogo did pull

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-13334195077895459432008-11-05T08:38:00.002Z2008-11-07T23:12:33.973Z

Argentina's 1986 World Cup winning captain Diego Maradona was Tuesday confirmed as the new coach of the national side, naming his twenty-man squad for their 19th November friendly against Scotland during the press conference.The squad for the friendly is currently comprised solely of European based players, and thus does not include Boca Juniors playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme, who had come under

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-9083697763231074812008-11-03T19:41:00.008Z2008-11-03T21:10:03.678Z

Brazil coach Dunga has left AC Milan's Ronaldinho out of his nineteen man squad for the nation's November 19th friendly with Portugal in Brasilia, but finds places in his selection for Inter's Adriano and Sao Paulo defender Miranda.The former World Player of the Year is, however, still in Dunga's plans for next year, with the coach confirming as such at Monday's press conference."We will use [

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-10318619868659604842008-11-03T08:22:00.002Z2008-11-03T08:22:00.673Z

A first half goal from Juan Roman Riquelme was enough to take Boca Juniors to a fully deserved 1-0 victory over San Lorenzo on Sunday afternoon, creating a three-way tie at the top of the Apertura table.The result came just days after Boca president Pedro Pompilio had died of a heart attack, and the players were keen to express their sorrow at his death, with Riquelme revealing a t-shirt that

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-75123627143094330652008-11-03T02:05:00.002Z2008-11-03T03:13:02.535Z

Whilst we don't have a soulful The Originals sampling Kanye West beat upon which to proclaim our return, El Espectacular is back in action after eleven or so months of inactivity.Such an occasion required an extensive design revamp - or in this case, the choice of a different template - but fear not, as the content will be the same as before, perhaps even better, although don't hold us to

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-79974914762823547702008-08-26T16:06:00.001+01:002008-11-06T21:53:50.324Z

Brazilian forward Rivaldo has surprised his current employers AEK Athens by declaring that he has agreed a deal in principle to join Uzbeki outfit FC Bunyodkor.Rivaldo, 36, will sign a two-year contract with the side formerly known as PFC Kurivchi - a deal that is thought to be worth in the region of €10million to the former FIFA and European Player of the Year.He announced the deal on the Greek

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-29413011865557250132007-12-13T09:50:00.001Z2007-12-13T10:02:24.077Z

Italian sports paper Tuttosport believes that Juventus are interested in making a move for Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero.El Kun scooped up the best player and top goalscorer awards at this summer's World Under-20 Championship and has continued that form into the start of the Spanish season, scoring thirteen goals in all competitions so far this term. He has drawn comparisons with Romario

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-68059208253751209652007-12-13T09:29:00.000Z2007-12-13T09:49:25.825Z

Boca Juniors secured their place in the final of the World Cup Championship by defeating Etoile of Tunisia 1-0 in a closely fought game in Tokyo.Neri Cardozo proved to be the difference between the teams, dispatching from close range from Rodrigo Palacio's pass in the 37th minute.Both sides had plenty of chances throughout, with Palacio himself going close for Boca and Etoile forcing a few good

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-24772196137985193612007-12-12T10:28:00.000Z2007-12-12T10:34:53.579Z

Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce has confirmed that he is content to wait until the end of the season to sign Barcelona defender/midfielder Edmilson.The Premiership side had been expected to make a move for Edmilson in January, but concerns over his fitness have necessitated the wait until the end of the season.Allardyce explained:"I am afraid he is now not an option for us in January. He has not

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-33966360125013335472007-12-12T10:21:00.000Z2007-12-12T10:26:57.404Z

Sao Paulo's young defender Breno is on his way to Germany in order to undergo a medical with Bayern Munich and agree personal terms with the Bundesliga club.It is thought that Bayern have not yet come to an agreement with Sao Paulo over the transfer fee, but the Brazilian club are resigned to seeing their young star leave in January and are likely to accept the $18million offer than is on the

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-55767526169647185742007-12-12T10:00:00.001Z2007-12-12T10:14:43.174Z

Argentine sports paper Ole are turning Japanese today to mark Boca Juniors' World Club Championship semi-final against Etoile of Tunisia in Tokyo, by writing all of their main headlines in Japanese (see picture).The expectation in the worldwide media is that a Boca versus AC Milan final is a certainty, but Boca will have to be wary of their Tunisian opponents today. Etoile performed impressively

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-25618171356912377382007-12-11T10:43:00.000Z2007-12-11T10:52:07.438Z

Having suffered the first relegation in the history of the club, Corinthians are now facing the possibility of losing their star player, goalkeeper Felipe.Felipe, 23, put together a string of impressive performances during the campaign and it thought to have attracted the interest of clubs in Spain as well as in his homeland. However, he seems content to stay at Corinthians as long as they can

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-48922944297556500552007-12-11T10:37:00.001Z2007-12-11T10:42:01.725Z

Manuel Pellegrini has extended his contract with Villarreal until 2010, following the side's impressive start to their La Liga campaign.Pellegrini's contract was due to expire at the end of this current season and the Chilean coach had been previously linked with the positions at Chelsea and Valencia before extending his deal.Villarreal currently lie fourth in the Primera Division after fifteen

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-41271615351675451612007-12-10T10:11:00.000Z2007-12-10T10:23:32.327Z

Ossie Ardiles has resigned as coach of Huracan just three months after taking charge, citing disagreements with chairman Carlos Babington as the reason for his swift departure.Speaking after Huracan's 2-1 victory against Velez Sarsfield on the final day of the Apertura, Ardiles said:"Ever since I stepped on Argentine earth, Babington did not fulfill any of its promises..."For that reason, I

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-85925973537573490552007-12-10T10:04:00.000Z2007-12-10T10:09:47.918Z

River Plate will open negotiations with Diego Simeone for their vacant managerial position today after Simeone resigned from Estudiantes at the weekend.The Buenos Aires giants had previously given up on Simeone due to the excessive compensation that Estudiantes were seeking for his services, but with the former Argentine international now openly available, River's board are confident they can

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-50347547612433405992007-12-10T09:46:00.000Z2007-12-10T10:02:26.621Z

CF Pachuca of Mexico fell at the first hurdle in Japan, going down 1-0 to Tunisian side Etoile Sportive Du Sahel in the quarter final of the Club World Cup 2007.Pachuca dominated for large periods of the game in Tokyo, but were unable to capitalize on their advantage with efforts from Damian Alvarez, Juan Carlos Cacho and Gabriel Cabellero all going close in the first-half and a goal disallowed

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-23154859142352619402007-12-07T16:44:00.000Z2007-12-07T16:58:10.783Z

In an interview with the Hong Kong media, Manchester City chairman Thaksin Shinawatra has confirmed that the club are considering making a move for Inter Milan striker Adriano in the January transfer window.Shinawatra said:"We're looking to see whether we'll do a swap deal or not."Adriano was a top player, but he lost form when his father died, and he put on weight. Now he's returning to form."

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-69441588404375017242007-12-07T10:31:00.000Z2007-12-07T10:49:08.488Z

Despite being embroiled in an alleged doping case that could see him suspended from playing for anything up to a year, Romario has been named as Vasco da Gama's new player/manager ahead of the Rio State Championship 2008.Romario, 41, had already had a small taste of management when he took temporary charge for Vasco's Copa Sudamericana tie against America in November, but will now coach the side

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-46211017302423722422007-12-06T15:53:00.000Z2007-12-06T16:21:23.961Z

Goalkeepers are a strange bunch. Growing up playing park football, those who would willingly spend some time between the sticks were either maniacs, overweight kids who could not play outfield, or unpopular kids, desperate to play some sort of part in the game. The one thing that all of these children had in common was a general lack of technical skill with a ball at their feet. In Latin America

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1413452229054215494.post-36804959583960018932007-12-06T11:22:00.000Z2007-12-06T11:50:19.864Z

Arsenal de Sarandi claimed their first Copa Sudamericana title, defeating America of Mexico on away goals after a 2-1 loss last night in Buenos Aires.In an ill-tempered match, which yielded seven yellow cards and two red, America took the lead mid-way through the first half: Christian Diaz putting through his own net.America then took the aggregate lead after sixty-three minutes, Juan Carlos

Nick Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04865477249995827233noreply@blogger.com0