Messi send Argentina to Copa cup final

Lionel Messi outshined Gabriel Batistuta as Argentina's all-time goal scorer in Tuesday's Copa America Centenario semifinal in Houston.

 Argentina advanced to the Copa America final for the second consecutive year thanks a comfortable 4-0 win over the United States as captain Lionel Messi became the nation's all-time leading goal scorer on Tuesday.

Runner-up to Chile last year, 14-time South American champion Argentina reached the decider of the centenary tournament on a night that Messi made more history with his record-breaking 55th international goal.

Messi's inch-perfect free kick in the 32nd minute saw him surpass Gabriel Batistuta in stunning fashion in Houston.



The five-time Ballon d'Or winner had earlier teed up Ezequiel Lavezzi - who was forced from the field in the second half after tumbling over an advertising board - for the game's opening goal in the third minute, while in-form striker Gonzalo Higuain completed the rout with a second-half brace at NRG Stadium.
Argentina - seeking to end a 23-year wait for a major trophy - will now face either defending champion Chile or Colombia in the final.
The USA was without three first-team regulars, with Jermaine Jones, Bobby Wood and Alejandro Bedoya suspended for the final-four clash. The trio's absence meant Graham Zusi, Chris Wondolowski and Kyle Beckerman were called upon, while DeAndre Yedlin also returned to the lineup.
Argentina also had one changed forced upon the team as the suspended Nicolas Gaitan was replaced by Lavezzi in the starting XI.
There were questions asked of Argentina coach Gerardo Martino and his decision to hand Lavezzi just his second start of the tournament, but the China-based forward repaid the faith just three minutes into the match.
Jurgen Klinsmann and Co. insisted they would not give Messi any special attention, something they quickly had to revise as the five-time Ballon d'Or winner played a delightful lofted through-ball to Lavezzi, who guided his effort over the onrushing Brad Guzan as the USA attempted to clear its lines.
Messi could not be stopped from that point, dictating the play and helping Argentina dominate possession as USA was forced to watch on in awe, ending the first half without a shot.
After John Brooks made a last-ditch tackle to deny Gonzalo Higuain, Messi stepped up and executed an inch-perfect free kick just past the half-hour mark.
In another moment of brilliance as fans watched on in anticipation, Messi curled a set piece across Guzan and in under the crossbar for his fifth goal of the tournament.
The USA made a change at the break, with teenage sensation Christian Pulisic coming on in place of Wondolowski.
But Argentina continued where it left off in the second half, Higuain springing the offside trap and tucking home his own rebound having initially been denied by Guzan.
Despite the best efforts of captain Michael Bradley to inspire USA, the CONCACAF nation barely threatened as Argentina cruised.
Argentina experienced a heart-in-mouth moment after Lavezzi tumbled over an advertising board following the hour, with medics immediately signalling for an ambulance having appeared to land on his neck. The Heibei China Fortune star, however, was able to get up on his feet, but was left clutching his arm.
Business went on as usual for Argentina and Higuain completed the scoring four minutes from time for his 31st international goal, after Messi squared the ball across the six-yard box for a simple tap-in.

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UCL : PSG 2 vs Man city 2

Paris Saint-Germain 2

 Ibrahimovic (41') , 

Rabiot (59')

Manchester City 2

De Bruyne (38') , 

Luiz rosa (72')

Result

Commentary

Match ends, Paris Saint Germain 2, Manchester City 2.

90

Second Half ends, Paris Saint Germain 2, Manchester City 2.

90

Foul by Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Paris Saint Germain).

90

Nicolas Otamendi (Manchester City) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

90

Substitution, Manchester City. Aleksandar Kolarov replaces Sergio Aguero.

90

Attempt missed. Lucas Moura (Paris Saint Germain) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Thiago Motta.

90

Gregory Van der Wiel (Paris Saint Germain) wins a free kick on the right wing.

90

Foul by Fabian Delph (Manchester City).

88

Substitution, Manchester City. Wilfried Bony replaces David Silva.

88

Attempt blocked. Sergio Aguero (Manchester City) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Jesus Navas.

87

Foul by Blaise Matuidi (Paris Saint Germain).

87

Fernandinho (Manchester City) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

85

Jesus Navas (Manchester City) is shown the yellow card.

85

Edinson Cavani (Paris Saint Germain) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

85

Foul by Fernando (Manchester City).

83

Eliaquim Mangala (Manchester City) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.

83

Blaise Matuidi (Paris Saint Germain) wins a free kick in the attacking half.

83

Foul by Eliaquim Mangala (Manchester City).

82

Offside, Manchester City. Joe Hart tries a through ball, but Sergio Aguero is caught offside.

82

Offside, Paris Saint Germain. Angel Di Maria tries a through ball, but Edinson Cavani is caught offside.

81

Lucas Moura (Paris Saint Germain) wins a free kick in the attacking half.

81

Foul by Fernandinho (Manchester City).

80

Corner, Paris Saint Germain. Conceded by Bacary Sagna.

79

Thiago Motta (Paris Saint Germain) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

79

Foul by David Silva (Manchester City).

78

Lucas Moura (Paris Saint Germain) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

78

Foul by Fabian Delph (Manchester City).

78

Substitution, Paris Saint Germain. Gregory Van der Wiel replaces Serge Aurier.

78

Substitution, Paris Saint Germain. Lucas Moura replaces Adrien Rabiot.

77

Substitution, Manchester City. Fabian Delph replaces Kevin De Bruyne.

77

Foul by Blaise Matuidi (Paris Saint Germain).

77

Gael Clichy (Manchester City) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

72

Goal! Paris Saint Germain 2, Manchester City 2. Fernandinho (Manchester City) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner.

71

Corner, Manchester City. Conceded by Maxwell.

67

Attempt missed. Jesus Navas (Manchester City) right footed shot from the right side of the box misses to the right. Assisted by Kevin De Bruyne.

64

Angel Di Maria (Paris Saint Germain) wins a free kick in the attacking half.

64

Foul by Fernandinho (Manchester City).

62

Attempt missed. Edinson Cavani (Paris Saint Germain) right footed shot from the right side of the six yard box is just a bit too high.

62

Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Paris Saint Germain) hits the bar with a header from the centre of the box. Assisted by Angel Di Maria with a cross.

61

Attempt blocked. David Silva (Manchester City) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Gael Clichy with a cross.

61

Thiago Motta (Paris Saint Germain) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

61

Foul by Fernandinho (Manchester City).

59

Goal! Paris Saint Germain 2, Manchester City 1. Adrien Rabiot (Paris Saint Germain) right footed shot from the right side of the six yard box to the bottom right corner following a corner.

59

Attempt saved. Edinson Cavani (Paris Saint Germain) header from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Angel Di Maria with a cross.

59

Corner, Paris Saint Germain. Conceded by Eliaquim Mangala.

56

Attempt saved. David Silva (Manchester City) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Gael Clichy.

5

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UCL live Wolfsburg 2 vs R. Madrid 0

Wolfsburg (2)


Rodriguez (18') (pen) ,
Arnold (25')


Real Madrid (0)




Commentary

Second Half ends, VfL Wolfsburg 2, Real Madrid 0.
90
Foul by Isco (Real Madrid).
90
Maximilian Arnold (VfL Wolfsburg) wins a free kick in the defensive half.
90
Substitution, VfL Wolfsburg. Marcel Schafer replaces Julian Draxler.
90
Offside, Real Madrid. Pepe tries a through ball, but Gareth Bale is caught offside.


90
Substitution, VfL Wolfsburg. Marcel Schafer replaces Julian Draxler.
90
Offside, Real Madrid. Pepe tries a through ball, but Gareth Bale is caught offside.
90
Foul by Jese (Real Madrid).

90
Vieirinha (VfL Wolfsburg) wins a free kick on the right wing.
90
Foul by Jese (Real Madrid).
89
Corner, VfL Wolfsburg. Conceded by Keylor Navas.


89
Corner, VfL Wolfsburg. Conceded by Keylor Navas.
89
Attempt saved. Max Kruse (VfL Wolfsburg) right footed shot from a difficult angle on the left is saved in the top right corner. Assisted by Julian Draxler.

88
Marcelo (Real Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half.
88
Foul by Christian Trasch (VfL Wolfsburg).
85
Substitution, Real Madrid. James Rodriguez replaces Toni Kroos.
85
Substitution, VfL Wolfsburg. Max Kruse replaces Andre Schurrle.


81
Corner, Real Madrid. Conceded by Dante.
80
Substitution, VfL Wolfsburg. Christian Trasch replaces Bruno Henrique


79
Corner, Real Madrid. Conceded by Ricardo Rodriguez.
78
Attempt blocked. Jese (Real Madrid) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Danilo.
77
Attempt missed. Bruno Henrique (VfL Wolfsburg) right footed shot from the right side of the box is close, but misses to the left. Assisted by Julian Draxler following a fast break.
75
Foul by Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid).
75
Bruno Henrique (VfL Wolfsburg) wins a free kick in the attacking half.
74
Attempt missed. Gareth Bale (Real Madrid) right footed shot from the right side of the box is too high.
73
Attempt saved. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) right footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Isco with a through ball.
71
Attempt missed. Gareth Bale (Real Madrid) left footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by Danilo.


70
Delay over. They are ready to continue.
69
Delay in match Luiz Gustavo (VfL Wolfsburg) because of an injury.
69
Maximilian Arnold (VfL Wolfsburg) is shown the yellow card.
69
Gareth Bale (Real Madrid) is shown the yellow card.
69
Marcelo (Real Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half.
68
Attempt missed. Andre Schurrle (VfL Wolfsburg) right footed shot from the right side of the box is too high. Assisted by Bruno Henrique.
68
Attempt missed. Marcelo (Real Madrid) left footed shot from the left side of the box misses to the right. Assisted by Jese following a corner.


68
Attempt blocked. Casemiro (Real Madrid) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Toni Kroos with a cross.
67
Corner, Real Madrid. Conceded by Dante.
66
Foul by Marcelo (Real Madrid).
66
Bruno Henrique (VfL Wolfsburg) wins a free kick on the right wing.
65
Foul by Jese (Real Madrid).
65
Vieirinha (VfL Wolfsburg) wins a free kick in the defensive half.
64
Substitution, Real Madrid. Isco replaces Luka Modric.
62
Corner, Real Madrid. Conceded by Luiz Gustavo.
62
Attempt blocked. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked.


61
Luiz Gustavo (VfL Wolfsburg) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.
61
Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) wins a free kick in the attacking half.
61
Foul by Luiz Gustavo (VfL Wolfsburg).
57
Attempt missed. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) header from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by Gareth Bale with a cross.
52
Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half.
52
Foul by Julian Draxler (VfL Wolfsburg).
51
Foul by Casemiro (Real Madrid).
51
Bruno Henrique (VfL Wolfsburg) wins a free kick in the defensive half.
50
Diego Benaglio (VfL Wolfsburg) is shown the yellow card.
50
Attempt missed. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the right.
49
Attempt missed. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) left footed shot from the centre of the box misses to the right. Assisted by Gareth Bale.
48
Attempt missed. Toni Kroos (Real Madrid) left footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by Casemiro.
47
Attempt blocked. Marcelo (Real Madrid) left footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Jese.


46
Corner, Real Madrid. Conceded by Naldo.

Second Half begins VfL Wolfsburg 2, Real Madrid 0.

First Half ends, VfL Wolfsburg 2, Real Madrid 0.
45
Attempt missed. Gareth Bale (Real Madrid) left footed shot from outside the box is just a bit too high from a direct free kick.
44
Jese (Real Madrid) wins a free kick in the attacking half.
44
Foul by Naldo (VfL Wolfsburg).
41
Substitution, Real Madrid. Jese replaces Karim Benzema because of an injury.
41
Delay over. They are ready to continue.
40
Delay in match (Real Madrid).
38
Attempt missed. Julian Draxler (VfL Wolfsburg) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Maximilian Arnold.
37
Attempt saved. Toni Kroos (Real Madrid) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Marcelo with a headed pass.
36
Corner, Real Madrid. Conceded by Naldo.
35
Attempt blocked. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) left footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked.
34
Attempt missed. Julian Draxler (VfL Wolfsburg) right footed shot from the right side of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Bruno Henrique.
33
Toni Kroos (Real Madrid) wins a free kick in the attacking half.
33
Foul by Josuha Guilavogui (VfL Wolfsburg).
32
Attempt missed. Karim Benzema (Real Madrid) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Gareth Bale with a cross.
29
Casemiro (Real Madrid) wins a free kick in the attacking half.
29
Foul by Andre Schurrle (VfL Wolfsburg).
28
Attempt saved. Andre Schurrle (VfL Wolfsburg) right footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Bruno Henrique.
27
Foul by Toni Kroos (Real Madrid).
27
Vieirinha (VfL Wolfsburg) wins a free kick in the defensive half.
26
Offside, Real Madrid. Marcelo tries a through ball, but Karim Benzema is caught offside.
25
Goal! VfL Wolfsburg 2, Real Madrid 0. Maximilian Arnold (VfL Wolfsburg) left footed shot from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal. Assisted by Bruno Henrique.
24
Offside, Real Madrid. Toni Kroos tries a through ball, but Karim Benzema is caught offside.
22
Attempt missed. Casemiro (Real Madrid) left footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the left. Assisted by Gareth Bale.
21
Marcelo (Real Madrid) wins a free kick on the left wing.
21
Foul by Bruno Henrique (VfL Wolfsburg).
21
Offside, Real Madrid. Pepe tries a through ball, but Gareth Bale is caught offside.
20
Casemiro (Real Madrid) wins a free kick in the attacking half.
20
Foul by Maximilian Arnold (VfL Wolfsburg).
19
Vieirinha (VfL Wolfsburg) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.
19
Marcelo (Real Madrid) wins a free kick on the left wing.
19
Foul by Vieirinha (VfL Wolfsburg).
19
Danilo (Real Madrid) wins a free kick on the right wing.
19
Foul by Julian Draxler (VfL Wolfsburg).
18
Goal! VfL Wolfsburg 1, Real Madrid 0. Ricardo Rodriguez (VfL Wolfsburg) converts the penalty with a left footed shot to the bottom left corner.
17
Penalty conceded by Casemiro (Real Madrid) after a foul in the penalty area.
17
Penalty VfL Wolfsburg. Andre Schurrle draws a foul in the penalty area.
16
Attempt saved. Bruno Henrique (VfL Wolfsburg) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Andre Schurrle.
15
Luka Modric (Real Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half.
15
Dangerous play by Andre Schurrle (VfL Wolfsburg).
14
Attempt missed. Gareth Bale (Real Madrid) left footed shot from the right side of the box misses to the left.
14
Attempt saved. Karim Benzema (Real Madrid) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Casemiro with a through ball.
13
Offside, Real Madrid. Toni Kroos tries a through ball, but Cristiano Ronaldo is caught offside.
12
Attempt saved. Bruno Henrique (VfL Wolfsburg) header from the right side of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Julian Draxler.
10
Offside, Real Madrid. Marcelo tries a through ball, but Gareth Bale is caught offside.
9
Hand ball by Andre Schurrle

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Luis Suarez struck twice in the first leg while F.Torres was show a secpnd yellow card

Luis Suarez struck twice in the first leg

Luis Suarez struck twice to help Barcelona come from behind to secure a 2-1 first-leg advantage against 10-man Atletico Madrid in their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday night.

Fernando Torres put Atleti ahead at the Nou Camp after 25 minutes, but the game turned when the former Chelsea striker saw red for two yellow cards in quick succession before half-time.

Suarez tapped home Jordi Alba's volley after 65 minutes to level, and headed home 11 minutes later to ensure Barca take a narrow advantage to the Vicente Calderon for the second leg on April 13.

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Champion's league quarter final live!!!!!!! commentary

Commentary
90
Second Half ends, Barcelona 2, Atletico de Madrid 1.
90
Foul by Rafinha (Barcelona).
90
Koke (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

90

Lionel Messi (Barcelona) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

90

Foul by Gabi (Atletico de Madrid).

90

Foul by Dani Alves (Barcelona).

90

Thomas Partey (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

90

Substitution, Atletico de Madrid. Angel Correa replaces Saul Niguez.

89

Corner, Atletico de Madrid. Conceded by Sergi Roberto.

89

Attempt blocked. Augusto Fernandez (Atletico de Madrid) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked.

Add caption

Barcelona.  2.  Suarez (63') , (74')

Atletico de Madrid.    1.   Torres (25')

Second half

Corner, Atletico de Madrid. Conceded by Sergi Roberto.

89

Foul by Sergi Roberto (Barcelona).

89

Saul Niguez (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick in the attacking half.

88

Foul by Rafinha (Barcelona).

88

Lucas Hernandez (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

86

Augusto Fernandez (Atletico de Madrid) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.

86

Dani Alves (Barcelona) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

86

Foul by Augusto Fernandez (Atletico de Madrid).

85

Attempt blocked. Rafinha (Barcelona) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Arda Turan.

84

Delay over. They are ready to continue.

83

Substitution, Barcelona. Arda Turan replaces Andres Iniesta.

83

Delay in match Gabi (Atletico de Madrid) because of an injury.

82

Javier Mascherano (Barcelona) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.

82

Foul by Javier Mascherano (Barcelona).

82

Saul Niguez (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick on the right wing.

80

Substitution, Barcelona. Sergi Roberto replaces Sergio Busquets.

Substitution, Barcelona. Sergi Roberto replaces Sergio Busquets.

79

Jan Oblak (Atletico de Madrid) is shown the yellow card.

78

Lucas Hernandez (Atletico de Madrid) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.

78

Neymar (Barcelona) wins a free kick on the left wing.

78

Foul by Lucas Hernandez (Atletico de Madrid).

77

Attempt blocked. Lionel Messi (Barcelona) left footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Gerard Pique

76

Substitution, Atletico de Madrid. Thomas Partey replaces Antoine Griezmann.

74

Goal! Barcelona 2, Atletico de Madrid 1. Luis Suarez (Barcelona) header from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal. Assisted by Dani Alves.

73

Antoine Griezmann (Atletico de Madrid) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.

73

Jordi Alba (Barcelona) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

73

Foul by Antoine Griezmann (Atletico de Madrid).

72

Foul by Neymar (Barcelona).

72

Koke (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick on the right wing.

71

Attempt blocked. Rafinha (Barcelona) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Sergio Busquets.

71

Attempt missed. Antoine Griezmann (Atletico de Madrid) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the right.

70

Luis Suarez (Barcelona) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.

70

Foul by Luis Suarez (Barcelona).

70

Filipe Luis (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

69

Lionel Messi (Barcelona) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

69

Foul by Gabi (Atletico de Madrid).

68

Neymar (Barcelona) wins a free kick in the attacking half.

68

Foul by Juanfran (Atletico de Madrid).

67

Foul by Dani Alves (Barcelona).

67

Antoine Griezmann (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

65

Hand ball by Dani Alves (Barcelona).

64

Substitution, Barcelona. Rafinha replaces Ivan Rakitic.

64

Corner, Barcelona. Conceded by Lucas Hernandez.

64

Attempt missed. Luis Suarez (Barcelona) left footed shot from the right side of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Neymar.

63

Goal! Barcelona 1, Atletico de Madrid 1. Luis Suarez (Barcelona) left footed shot from very close range to the centre of the goal. Assisted by Jordi Alba.

63

Attempt missed. Jordi Alba (Barcelona) left footed shot from the centre of the box misses to the right. Assisted by Dani Alves with a cross.

61

Attempt missed. Neymar (Barcelona) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Sergio Busquets.

61

Filipe Luis (Atletico de Madrid) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.

61

Dani Alves (Barcelona) wins a free kick on the right wing.

61

Foul by Filipe Luis (Atletico de Madrid).

58

Foul by Andres Iniesta (Barcelona).

58

Juanfran (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

56

Attempt blocked. Neymar (Barcelona) left footed shot from very close range is blocked.

56

Attempt saved. Lionel Messi (Barcelona) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Javier Mascherano.

55

Attempt saved. Neymar (Barcelona) header from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Ivan Rakitic.

55

Attempt blocked. Ivan Rakitic (Barcelona) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Javier Mascherano.

54

Corner, Barcelona. Conceded by Lucas Hernandez.

53

Substitution, Atletico de Madrid. Augusto Fernandez replaces Yannick Carrasco.

52

Attempt blocked. Andres Iniesta (Barcelona) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Lionel Messi.

51

Neymar (Barcelona) hits the bar with a right footed shot from the left side of the box. Assisted by Andres Iniesta.

50

Foul by Neymar (Barcelona).

50

Juanfran (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

49

Attempt missed. Lionel Messi (Barcelona) left footed shot from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Neymar.

48

Sergio Busquets (Barcelona) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.

48

Foul by Sergio Busquets (Barcelona).

48

Saul Niguez (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick in the attacking half.

47

Offside, Barcelona. Lionel Messi tries a through ball, but Luis Suarez is caught offside.

47

Attempt blocked. Filipe Luis (Atletico de Madrid) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Saul Niguez.

46

Foul by Jordi Alba (Barcelona).

46

Gabi (Atletico de Madrid) wins a free kick on the

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EGYPT 1-0 NIGERIA: How Super Eagles Rated against Pharaohs of Egypt

 EGYPT 1-0 NIGERIA: How Super Eagles Rated Vs Pharaohs

 DANIEL AKPEYI 7/10

Put up a brave performance in what was his first competitive game for the Super Eagles. Made two brilliant saves on  39 minutes  and could do nothing to prevent the Pharaohs from scoring the winner.

SHEHU ABDULAHI 4/10

A below-par showing from the Uniao Madeira of Portugal defender. He was constantly caught out of position especially in the first half and contributed little going forward.

EFE AMBROSE 5/10

The Celtic man did well to curtail the Pharaohs  attackers, but couldn't prevent them  from scoring the decisive goal. He  also lost possession a few times.

GODFREY OBOABONA 6/10

Solid as ever, but was  unfortunate to end up on the losing side.

STANLEY AMUZIE 3/10

Surprisingly kept his place in the starting eleven and put up a shoddy display in the game.  He was rightly substituted at the start of the second half after an error-prone performance.

OGHENEKARO ETEBO 4/10

Couldn't replicate his first leg performance. He make little impact in the game and  was substituted due to injury.

MIKEL OBI 5/10

The Chelsea midfielder had an average game although he started well, controlling the midfield early on. He however failed to lift his side to get a positive result from the game.

AMINU UMAR 4/10

A surprise inclusion in the starting line up. Umar toiled hard to make an impression in the game with no success.

AHMED MUSA 3/10

Another horrific display from the winger. Never made any significant impact in the game for the entire 90 minutes he spent on the pitch.

VICTOR MOSES 8/10

Unarguably Super Eagles best player in the game. Came close to getting the equalising goal late in the game when his shot hit the post.

ODION IGHAL0 4/10

Yet to make an impact on the international stage. The Watford forward struggled to get going and had a poor game by his Premier League standards.

SUBSTITUTES

ELDERSON ECHIEJILE 5/10

Took the place of Stanley Amuzie at the start of the second half and did little  to change the complexion of the game.

AZUBUIKE IKECHUKWU 6/10

The defensive midfielder helped stabilise the Super Eagles midfield when he came on for the injured Oghenekaro Etebo. He surely has a big future ahead of him.

ALEX IWOBI 6/10

Brought some life into the Super Eagles attack when he replaced Aminu Umar in the 72 minute.

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AFCON 2017 Qualifier: CAF deduct 3 points from Nigeria, Egypt, Tanzania fines Chad

AFCON 2017
CAF deduct 3 points from Nigeria, Egypt, fines Chad

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has deducted points from Nigeria, Egypt and Tanzania, all members of Group G, following the withdrawal of Chad from the ongoing qualification race for the 31st edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, Gabon 2017.

Chad were due to travel to Tanzania for the fourth match in the group, but instead made the announcement of a shocking withdrawal, citing financial constraints.

CAF swiftly applied its rules in conformity with Article 61 of the regulations of the competition which states: “If a team withdraws from the qualifying phase organised in groups, all its results shall be annulled (points, scored and conceded goals)”.

“Consequently, the three matches of Chad of Group G are cancelled and the results will not be taken into consideration”, CAF said.

Egypt still lead the group with four points, while Nigeria have two. Tanzania have a point.

CAF further said that in accordance, with the rule set by CAF Executive Committee on 15 January 2015, any group reduced to three teams following the withdrawal of a team will have only the group winner qualifying for the final tournament.

Furthermore, the Chadian Football Federation has been fined 20,000 US Dollars and also barred from participating in the next edition of the AFCON in conformity with Article 59 of the regulations of the Competition which states “any association declaring forfeit after the start of the matches is liable to a fine of twenty thousand (20,000) U.S. dollars. It will also not be allowed to participate in the next edition of the AFCON”.

Meanwhile, Egypt will face Nigeria on Tuesday, 29 March 2016 in Alexandria.

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Suarez score a brace as Uruguay held Brazil

Suarez score a brace as Uruguay held  Brazil with a 2 - 2 draw

Luis Suarez scored on his return from a worldwide ban for biting as Uruguay fought back from 2-0 down to grab a 2-2 draw with Brazil in a pulsating World Cup qualifying battle on Friday.

Barcelona star Suarez – playing his first international since infamously chomping on Italy's Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 World Cup – struck in the 48th minute to complete a remarkable Uruguayan fightback.

Uruguay had looked to be sliding to a heavy defeat after Brazil went 2-0 up inside the first half an hour thanks to goals from Bayern Munich striker Douglas Costa and Renato Augusto.

But Edinson Cavani pulled a goal back for Uruguay to allow Suarez – installed as captain by coach Oscar Tabarez - his moment of glory at the Arena Pernambuco.

The draw left Uruguay in second place in the South American standings, three points behind leaders Ecuador with 10 points from five games.

Brazil moved up to third, level on eight points with Argentina and Paraguay but ahead on goal difference.

Brazil took the lead in the opening minute with a well worked goal created by Chelsea winger Willian.

The 27-year-old teased and tormented Sebastian Coates on the right flank before floating a cross to Costa who delicately steered home the finish.

Brazil's dream start set the tone for the rest of the half, with the hosts rampant against a feeble Uruguay who offered only token opposition for long periods.

However Brazil had to wait until the 26th minute to grab their second, which arrived after more sorcery from Neymar.

The Brazilian captain split Uruguay's defence with a wonderful pass that Alvaro Pereira could only deflect into the path of Renato Augusto.

Augusto then pulled off a magical dummy to wrong-foot the advancing Fernando Muslera before firing high into the net for 2-0.

Yet Uruguay came roaring back to score with their first attack of the game and what turned out to be their only attack of the half.

Pereira advanced down the left flank and crossed to Carlos Sanchez at the far post, who knocked down into the path of Paris Saint-Germain star Cavani who lashed in a perfectly timed volley to make it 2-1.

Thereafter however it was all Brazil, with Neymar shooting just wide on 34 minutes as Brazil laid siege to the Uruguayan goal.

But in the opening minutes of the second half Uruguay drew level with another goal against the run of play.

Pereira released Suarez, and the striker drilled a low shot that the advancing Brazil goalkeeper Alisson couldn't grasp.

The goal galvanised Uruguay who showed far greater resilience thereafter.

Although Brazil dominated they were kept at bay, and Neymar's frustration boiled over on 63 minutes when he was booked for a peutlant kick on substitute Alvaro Gonzalez.

Dani Alves also earned a caution in the 75th minute for a wild tackle on Pereira.

Brazil's Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho tested Muslera with a late long-range strike but Uruguay's defence held firm.

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Taiwo Awoniyi praises Samson Siasia's tactical nous in Senegal victory

Nigeria U23 forward said that the quality inputs from the technical bench helped the country seal a ticket to next year's Olympiad in Rio de Janeir

 Taiwo Awoniyi has praised the hardwork and technical nous that secured his side a ticket to the men's football event of the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil after Wednesday's 1-0 defeat of Senegal. 

Oghenekaro Etebo's strike from the penalty spot was all coach Samson Siasia's men needed to earn a 1-0 semifinal victory against the hosts at the Léopold Sédar Senghor Stadium in Dakar.

Nigeria last appeared at the Olympics in 2008, where Siasia led the team to a silver medal finish.

Despite not featuring in the match due to injury, Awoniyi expressed delight at being part of the success story at the tournament and hailing Nigerians for their support.

"I'm very happy. We as a team are super delighted at making this happen for our country," Awoniyi told Goal.

"I'm personally feeling great being part of the team achieving this amazing feet. It's God and the great coaching we got from our technical crew led by coach Samson Siasia.

"Once again, I'm greatful to God for the opportunity and must appreciate Nigerians for their support and prayers.

"I must also thank the coach for the opportunity to be part of the achievement and I promise Nigerians that we will come out stronger in the final," he concluded.

Nigeria will face Algeria, who defeated their South Africa 2-0, in the final on Saturday, December 12 at the Léopold-Sédar-Senghor Stadium.

The winner between South Africa and hosts Senegal in the third place match of the tournament will fill the final African spot for the 2016 Summer Olympics.

Nigeria joins hosts Brazil, Algeria, Honduras, Mexico, Argentina, Fiji, Denmark, Germany, Portugal, Sweden to complete the 11 countries that have qualified for the 16-team event.

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Happy 58th birthday to former Nigeria president Goodluck Jonathan’s read his 58 memorable quotes.

Today is the former president Goodluck Jonathan’s 58th birthday.

On November 20, 1957, Lawrence and Eunice Jonathan brought forth baby Jonathan into the world and he was named Goodluck. He was born in Otuoke, Bayelsa state.

The former president, who came from a humble background, joined politics in 1998 and was voted deputy governor of Bayelsa state in 1999. He held that post until 2006, when he became the governor following the impeachment of Governor Diepreye S.P. Alamieyeseigha.

His star continued to shine as he was picked as the running mate to the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in 2007 and they won the presidential election. From there, he rose to be the country’s No. 1 citizen on May 5, 2010, following Yar’Adua’s death.

In 2011, he was elected Nigeria’s 14th president. He ran again for a second tenure in 2015 but lost to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Jonathan is married to Dame Patience and they are blessed with children.

As he celebrates his 58th birthday today, I brings you 58 of his memorable quotes.

1. In my early days in school, I had no shoes, no school bags. I carried my books in my hands but never despaired; no car to take me to school, but I never despaired. There were days I had only one meal but I never despaired. I walked miles and crossed rivers to school every day, but I never despaired. Didn’t have power, didn’t have generators, studied with lanterns, but I never despaired. In spite of these, I finished secondary school attended the University of Port Harcourt and now hold a doctorate degree.

2. Our dear nation, Nigeria, has certainly come a long way and made notable progress since our first Democracy Day on May 29, 1999 when the military finally relinquished power and handed over to a democratically-elected government, marking the true beginning of a government of the people, by the people, for the people.

3. One thing that I know and I feel Nigerians will celebrate is continuity and peace.

4. My brothers and sisters, we are all winners. In this context there is no victor and no vanquished. We have demonstrated, even in our diversity, the progress of Nigeria remains paramount for all.

5. I’m not interested in 2015, because you and I do not know whether we will reach 2015. The truth is, 2015 is really not my business and it is politically irresponsible for people to be talking about 2015.

6. So any President, whether it is Goodluck Jonathan or any other person, as long as you still have the opportunity to contest or not to contest, if you declare it too early, you create more problems in the system. If you say you are contesting, it creates more problems. So don’t force a President to declare his interest. It is not right.

7. Before the PDP administration, even directors in ministries had no phones! As Assistant Director, I had no phone. But with the PDP administration, now my mother has a phone.

8. Furthermore, under this administration, we have made consistent progress in improving the standard of elections in our country to ensure that they are ever more credible and truly representative of the people’s free choice.

9. Why should a lecturer in a state- owned university go on strike if Mr. President has done something wrong? The state universities are owned by the states.

10. Boko Haram is not as a result of misrule; definitely not. Sometimes people say it is as a result of poverty; definitely not. Boko Haram is a local terror group.

11. Boko Haram didn’t start in the last three years. Sometimes people talk about Boko Haram as if Jonathan is the cause of Boko Haram. I was the Vice President when Yusuf was killed, the so called founder of Boko Haram. And he was there before 2009. But it was not handled properly at the beginning. They allowed it to grow into a cancer and become terrible like crude oil stealing. But I assure Nigerians that we will bring it under control. It is a major challenge, but we are working day and night to overcome it.

12. There can be no doubt that what we are witnessing in Nigeria today is a manifestation of the same warped and ferocious world view that brought down the Twin Towers in New York, killed innocent persons in Boston and led to the murder of defenceless people in the Southern Russian city of Volgograd.

13. No matter what it takes, we will win this war against terror.

14. The war against terror may be difficult, but the days of peace will come again. Terror is evil; nowhere in history has evil endured forever.

15. Terrorism is not a phenomenon a six months or one year State of Emergency can solve.

16. We have a duty to stand firm against those who threaten the sovereign integrity of the Nigerian state.

17. Nigeria is the only country we have and we must all work to preserve it for present and future generations.

18. Nigerians are peace-loving people; these sad events perpetrated by those who do not wish our nation well have not changed the essential character of our people.

19. Yes, we have challenges but we will surely overcome. Nigeria is our country. Nigeria is blessed. We will all collectively protect, defend and develop this country for ourselves, and our children.

20. Over 70% of what are called corruption (cases), even by EFCC (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission) and other anti-corruption agencies, is not corruption, but common stealing.

21. Don’t misquote me. I am not saying we don’t have issues of corruption but that is not our number one problem.

22. Sometimes people take common stealing as corruption. A thief is a thief. When you steal money you are a thief.

23. Those quoting me as saying that ‘stealing is not corruption’ have not said that the President said stealing is good. Thieves should be treated as thieves. Do not use the word ‘corruption’ to cover so many things.

24. My political ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.

25. Nobody’s political ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian.

26. No matter your political interest, you must place your country first. You must show some kind of patriotism.

27. I have no enemies to fight. You are all my friends and we share a common destiny.

28. Where there is no opportunity for one man one vote, there will be no accountability and no responsibility.

29. Our votes must count! One man, one vote! One woman, one vote! One youth, one vote

30. Democracy is a journey that every nation mindful of advancing the liberty of its citizens must undertake.

31. Any society or country that closes the vital valves of its democratic space cannot develop at a reasonable pace.

32. Democracy calls for sacrifice and tolerance, an open ear and a strong voice.

33. We must develop a democratic culture in which the will of the people will be treated as sacred and be immune to subversion by anti-democratic elements.

34. It is the supreme task of this generation to give hope to the hopeless strength to the weak and protection to the defenceless.

35. The beauty of democracy is that its practice is never final and always has room for improvement no matter how old a democratic society may be.

36. As we strive to advance our democratic development, there will be times when our will shall be tested, our patience provoked and our belief questioned.

37. Nobody should rig for me. I am assuring Nigerians that though I am contesting, nobody must manipulate votes in my favour. Our votes must count.

38. You have trusted me with your mandate, and I will never, never let you down.

39. On the football field, nobody cares who scores for Nigeria.

40. For the PDP family, the contest for party offices does not produce winners and losers.

41. I believe in the politics of give and take.

42. Election is like any tournament, FIFA says March, later say April or May. The winning team will still win. No big deal.

43. The dark patches in the Niger Delta will give way to light.

44. I don’t need to be a lion. I don’t need to operate like the pharaoh of Egypt, I don’t need to be an army general, but I can change this country without those traits.

45. I am not God, but I am more hopeful now than before in terms of combing the whole areas. We are working with our neighbours and we will comb the whole of that area. Just give us some time.

46. It is the supreme task of this generation to give hope to the hopeless, strength to the weak and protection to the defenseless.

47. Africa must turn its begging bowls into baskets of prosperity and opportunity.

48. For you to fix the world, you must fix Africa. For you to fix Africa, you must fix Nigeria.

49. Where we falter we must not fall. When we are weak, we must not surrender.

50. Crude oil stealing is not done by poor people. Because, you need a vessel to lift the oil across the ocean to go and sell. And if you are to sell a stolen product abroad, you also need some connections because the refineries abroad don’t take crude oil from just anybody.

51. Politicians are instigating some young people to act in ways not expected.

52. It is quite unfortunate that there is a lot of wrong information in the system, especially in the social media & normal media.

53. I don’t have the time for social media.

54. We must not put money where people can take it, like we did with in agriculture with fertilizer.

55. Separation of power is not separation of government.

56. Our founding fathers did not dream of a country where neighbours and friends would exchange bullets in place of handshakes.

57. I have come to launch a campaign of ideas, not one of calumny. I have to come to preach love, not hate. I have come to break you away from divisive tendencies of the past which have slowed our drive to true nationhood. I have no enemies to fight. You are all my friends and we share a common destiny.

58. Cynicism and scepticism will not help our journey to greatness. Let us believe in a new Nigeria.



 

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UNDER CONSTRUCTION

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

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65 WAYS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

65 WAYS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Sharing

1.      Seniors love your artwork! Brighten walls - and smiles - at the local senior center.

2.      Got a favorite game? Teach it to younger kids.

3.      Win brownie points! Organize canned goods at home and take extras to a food pantry.

4.      Got talent? Share it!

5.      Your old backpack needs a new friend...donate it!

6.     Gather up outgrown, gently worn shoes and clothes for your local Salvation Army, Goodwill, church or synagogue.

7.      Party leftovers? Local soup kitchen guests are gonna love 'em!

8.      Neglected stuffies in your room? Little kids at shelters are aching to cuddle them.

9.      Like a challenge? Your game board skills are in demand at the senior center.

10.     Friend forgot their snack? Share yours!

11.     Read aloud to little kids at the library - they'll love you!

12.     Dust off your old - but still good - books and give them to your school library.

Giving

1.      It's your birthday! Give a gift to someone in need.

2.      Share your lemonade stand $$$ with your favorite worthy cause!

3.      How about a toy drive for kids stuck in the hospital?

4.      Get a haircut! And give your ponytail to Locks of Love.

5.      Got old sports equipment? Bring it to your local Parks & Rec!

6.      Calling all chefs! Bake cakes and donate the proceeds.

7.      Feed your furry friends at the animal shelter...drop off a bag of food!

8.      Time is precious...share a bit of yours to help others.

9.      Kind words lift spirits...give a compliment and lift yours too.

Conserving

1.      Compost your fruit and veggie scraps...and watch your garden BLOOM!

2.      Help save a gazillion disposable water bottles...reusable bottles rule!

3.      Save a tree! Use both sides of your notebook paper.

4.      Reuse, recycle. Reuse, recycle. Reuse, recycle. Got it?!

5.      Keep the earth cool...walk, bike or use public transportation.

6.      Got energy? Pick up trash! Remember: wear gloves & work with an adult.

7.      Your town doesn't recycle? Yikes! Create a program now!

8.      Nourish your neighborhood green spaces...grow a community garden.

9.      Like clean air? Grab your friends and plant trees.

10.     Drat those petroleum-based plastic bags! Use fabric bags instead - for everything!

11.     Buzz your town selectmen for more neighborhood trashcans and recycling bins.

12. Want to save energy while leaping tall buildings in a single bound? Turn off the boob tube and play outside.

13. Love surprises? Plant fall bulbs and flower seeds...and keep a weather eye for spring blossoms!

14.     "Turn off the lights!" Make switch plate reminders for your whole house.

15.     Save water and tons of $$$ - turn off the water when you brush teeth!

16.     Keep sturdy takeout containers for future leftovers.

17. Transform colorful magazine pages, comics and more into artful projects and gift wrappers!

18. Learn how to donate/recycle old computer stuff & post instructions (with permission!) at your local electronics stores.

19.     Breathe in nature...turn off the AC and open a window to the world.

Doing

1.      Whip up your favorite yummy snack and present it to a soup kitchen!

2.     Love history? Visit folks at the senior center and ask about the amazing things they've witnessed.

3.      Want to change the world? Practice random acts of kindness.

4.      Keep your brain sharp and body strong. Ask for healthy lunch options at school.

5.      Say "thank you! "...'tis music to your teachers' ears.

6.      Seeking positive change? Ask your local government officials for help.

7.      Lead by your good example.

8.      New kid at school? Eat lunch with them!

9.      Volunteering? Invite your nearest and dearest along.

10.     Have an older neighbor? Rake their leaves or shovel their sidewalk!

11.     Need a cat or dog to snuggle? Visit the animal shelter.

12.     Help end poverty. Check out the UN Millennium Development Goals online.

13.     Make soldiers smile...send letters & goodies!

14.     There's nothing like a warm hug...share one today.

15.     Show gratitude and write thank you notes!

16.     Get fit and have fun...start a neighborhood exercise group.

17.     Eating healthy? Partner up to share knowledge, tips and encouragement.

18.     Share a home cooked meal - and cheerful chat - with a homebound person.

19.     Got a big idea? Launch it with a community event!

20.      Friend on a mission? Help them!

21.      Tummy grumbling at the grocery store? Buy a canned good for the food pantry box.

22.      See somebody struggling with heavy bags or boxes? Lend a hand.

23.      Active voters make our country great. Ensure adults in your life are registered!

24.  Adorable pets await loving homes! Where? The animal shelter...tell your friends and family!

25.      Brighten the world...smile often!

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