Soccer: Southern Section championship schedule - latimes.com

John Terry and Rafa Benitez stun Chelsea players with bust-up ...

He expressed his dismay at the 2-0 reverse and he performance of the team and he asked the players for their reaction to the loss.

A witness said: "It all kicked off between JT and Benitez as their frustrations over Sunday boiled over into a big bust-up."

This high-profile clash between the pair comes after The Sun apologised for incorrectly reporting that Benitez and Terry had allegedly rowed in the dressing room in the wake of Chelsea's 3-2 defeat at Newcastle recently.

Link: Kerkyra - Platanias [Live Football]

Academy to First Team: the Impossible Step? | Chelsea FC 360

The expensive training facilities at Cobham were the future stars are trained. But why do many not leave the Academy to join the First Team?

Last week, Cristian Cuevas – Chilean starlet – was talking about an agreement he, and his club, have with Chelsea over the transfer of Cuevas in the summer. He is said to be a rising talent with a bright future so you can certainly see why Chelsea went in for the young fella but in all honesty, I'm no longer excited by news like this. Our academy is filled with bright players from all around the globe, much like Cuevas, who have been brought in at young ages in the hope of someday turning out as a big star for the Blues. Sadly though, a select few get the chance to wear the Blue jersey and walk out at Stamford Bridge in a competitive game and this is why I am just not excited by Cuevas, no matter how good he looks on YouTube.

I must say though that the lack of players coming through the youth system is not down to the Academy coaches or the Academy in general. Dermot Drummy is doing a fantastic job with the Under-21s and Adri Viveash also doing tremendously well with the Youth team. We have won the FA Youth Trophy twice in the last two years so how come none of these talented youngsters are getting their chance? Well, here's what I think is the reason why.

Any manager who takes the job at Chelsea is under a lot of pressure. Even more so Rafa Benitez at the moment and because of the pressure of the fact that their job is on the line if they lose, Chelsea managers cannot afford to lose. For this reason, Chelsea managers will try and pick the strongest team possible for each game as they have to win otherwise the supporters get angry and the board drop the axe. I believe that it is because of this reason that the youth often are hardly given a sniff.

I'm no expert in coaching young players and developing potential global superstars but surely it is obvious that in order to help their development, you have to actually play them in the First XI. No youngster is ever going to be ready or good enough if you don't give him chance to develop by playing him in the first team environment. The manager is so scared of gambling with playing a youth player to develop him incase we end up losing the game, and the manager losing his job.

This is why 26 of our players are currently out on loan, to gain experience of first team football and the theory is that many of them come back to Chelsea and get a place in the team. So far, the theory part hasn't really come to reality. Only Daniel Sturridge has so far returned from a loan and gained a place in the First XI for an extended period and it took Ryan Bertrand about 5 or 6 loans to get into the first team squad! Many of our players spend their entire Chelsea careers on loan (Michael Mancienne, Scott Sinclair) and despite promise and obvious talent, they all seem to get sold and it's not like these Chelsea younsters haven't suddenly turned awful, or had complete failures of careers, take a look at these examples. Fabio Borini now plays for Liverpool and is a starter when not injured. Miroslav Stoch won the Puskas award in 2012 and is one of the best players in the Turkish League. Mbark Boussoufa has been having good seasons in Russia for Anzhi. And Franco Di Santo has been brilliant for Wigan this season. None of these players are doing badly with their careers but none ever got the proper chance at Chelsea.

The last man, and only man during Abramovich's reign, to give youth a chance at Chelsea was Carlo Ancelotti. In his final season in charge, Patrick van Aanholt, Jeffery Bruma, Fabio Borini, Gael Kakuta and Josh McEachran were all given chance to flourish in the first team and all did actually deliver and showed great promise with McEachran being the shining light making sure that the future was bright for Chelsea and England. Sadly though, Ancelotti's faith wasn't truly rewarded and the team slumped and Ancelotti was fighting the unwinable battle to keep his job. The faith in youth hasn't been showed by his successors apart from in pre-season friendlies meaning that one of the worlds most expensively assembled academies is just not being utilised.

Here lies my worry for any player hoping of chances at Chelsea who joins the Academy. All around the world we have poached young talent to a top club but these players are never going to get the chances at this club that they would have done had they stayed at their previous clubs. Chelsea aren't a team to be content with what they already have. Instead of allowing Jeffery Bruma or Tomas Kalas to develop and help out the defence (which has been shocking this year at moments), we will most likely go out and buy a very expensive defender to solve a problem that the club could have had the solution for without spending such money. It's not these young players we have at the club are cheap either! Kalas was brought for £5million and Lucas Piazon for £7 million and if we don't get these players playing for our 11, all seems like money down the drain to me!

The club prefer to spend big on gambles when in all honesty, it isn't worth it most of the time. We scour the globe looking for talent when they will probably never feature for the first team and we could save a whole lot of time, and money, developing some homegrown talent. With FIFA Finacial Fair Play schemes soon to be in place, the club can't afford to be spending big on players or their wages, thus putting emphasis on not buying big players who take a large chunk out of the balance in both fee and wages. Also, new Premier League teamsheets demanding a minimum of 8 homegrown players in the squad of 25 means that we really need to be looking to develop some homegrown talent.

McEachran, Chalobah and Bertrand are examples of homegrown talent that should be developed and given a chance at our club. The club hasn't had a player come through the academy and become a first team regular since JT in 1997. Since then, we have favoured buying a shorter term solution than developing a longer term solution. Look at Manchester United, look at Dortmund, look at Bayern Munich, look at Barcelona and Ajax. These are all massive clubs but when you look at their starting 11, a very large portion is taken up by homegrown players who have either come through the academy or have been bought from smaller teams and had their abilities honed at these top clubs. These clubs have the models that I think our club should be aspiring to replicate. They're all big clubs, they all play with managers and players under pressure from the media, supporters and clubs directors but they still deliver young developed talent. How do they do that you wonder? Well, the answer is faith and sadly, we don't see enough of it here with the youths at Chelsea.

If any youngsters do force their way into our extremely expensively developed squad then I take my hat off to them because that is one big acheivement.

The expensive training facilities at Cobham were the future stars are trained. But why do many not leave the Academy to join the First Team?

Last week, Cristian Cuevas – Chilean starlet – was talking about an agreement he, and his club, have with Chelsea over the transfer of Cuevas in the summer. He is said to be a rising talent with a bright future so you can certainly see why Chelsea went in for the young fella but in all honesty, I'm no longer excited by news like this. Our academy is filled with bright players from all around the globe, much like Cuevas, who have been brought in at young ages in the hope of someday turning out as a big star for the Blues. Sadly though, a select few get the chance to wear the Blue jersey and walk out at Stamford Bridge in a competitive game and this is why I am just not excited by Cuevas, no matter how good he looks on YouTube.

I must say though that the lack of players coming through the youth system is not down to the Academy coaches or the Academy in general. Dermot Drummy is doing a fantastic job with the Under-21s and Adri Viveash also doing tremendously well with the Youth team. We have won the FA Youth Trophy twice in the last two years so how come none of these talented youngsters are getting their chance? Well, here's what I think is the reason why.

Any manager who takes the job at Chelsea is under a lot of pressure. Even more so Rafa Benitez at the moment and because of the pressure of the fact that their job is on the line if they lose, Chelsea managers cannot afford to lose. For this reason, Chelsea managers will try and pick the strongest team possible for each game as they have to win otherwise the supporters get angry and the board drop the axe. I believe that it is because of this reason that the youth often are hardly given a sniff.

I'm no expert in coaching young players and developing potential global superstars but surely it is obvious that in order to help their development, you have to actually play them in the First XI. No youngster is ever going to be ready or good enough if you don't give him chance to develop by playing him in the first team environment. The manager is so scared of gambling with playing a youth player to develop him incase we end up losing the game, and the manager losing his job.

This is why 26 of our players are currently out on loan, to gain experience of first team football and the theory is that many of them come back to Chelsea and get a place in the team. So far, the theory part hasn't really come to reality. Only Daniel Sturridge has so far returned from a loan and gained a place in the First XI for an extended period and it took Ryan Bertrand about 5 or 6 loans to get into the first team squad! Many of our players spend their entire Chelsea careers on loan (Michael Mancienne, Scott Sinclair) and despite promise and obvious talent, they all seem to get sold and it's not like these Chelsea younsters haven't suddenly turned awful, or had complete failures of careers, take a look at these examples. Fabio Borini now plays for Liverpool and is a starter when not injured. Miroslav Stoch won the Puskas award in 2012 and is one of the best players in the Turkish League. Mbark Boussoufa has been having good seasons in Russia for Anzhi. And Franco Di Santo has been brilliant for Wigan this season. None of these players are doing badly with their careers but none ever got the proper chance at Chelsea.

The last man, and only man during Abramovich's reign, to give youth a chance at Chelsea was Carlo Ancelotti. In his final season in charge, Patrick van Aanholt, Jeffery Bruma, Fabio Borini, Gael Kakuta and Josh McEachran were all given chance to flourish in the first team and all did actually deliver and showed great promise with McEachran being the shining light making sure that the future was bright for Chelsea and England. Sadly though, Ancelotti's faith wasn't truly rewarded and the team slumped and Ancelotti was fighting the unwinable battle to keep his job. The faith in youth hasn't been showed by his successors apart from in pre-season friendlies meaning that one of the worlds most expensively assembled academies is just not being utilised.

Here lies my worry for any player hoping of chances at Chelsea who joins the Academy. All around the world we have poached young talent to a top club but these players are never going to get the chances at this club that they would have done had they stayed at their previous clubs. Chelsea aren't a team to be content with what they already have. Instead of allowing Jeffery Bruma or Tomas Kalas to develop and help out the defence (which has been shocking this year at moments), we will most likely go out and buy a very expensive defender to solve a problem that the club could have had the solution for without spending such money. It's not these young players we have at the club are cheap either! Kalas was brought for £5million and Lucas Piazon for £7 million and if we don't get these players playing for our 11, all seems like money down the drain to me!

The club prefer to spend big on gambles when in all honesty, it isn't worth it most of the time. We scour the globe looking for talent when they will probably never feature for the first team and we could save a whole lot of time, and money, developing some homegrown talent. With FIFA Finacial Fair Play schemes soon to be in place, the club can't afford to be spending big on players or their wages, thus putting emphasis on not buying big players who take a large chunk out of the balance in both fee and wages. Also, new Premier League teamsheets demanding a minimum of 8 homegrown players in the squad of 25 means that we really need to be looking to develop some homegrown talent.

McEachran, Chalobah and Bertrand are examples of homegrown talent that should be developed and given a chance at our club. The club hasn't had a player come through the academy and become a first team regular since JT in 1997. Since then, we have favoured buying a shorter term solution than developing a longer term solution. Look at Manchester United, look at Dortmund, look at Bayern Munich, look at Barcelona and Ajax. These are all massive clubs but when you look at their starting 11, a very large portion is taken up by homegrown players who have either come through the academy or have been bought from smaller teams and had their abilities honed at these top clubs. These clubs have the models that I think our club should be aspiring to replicate. They're all big clubs, they all play with managers and players under pressure from the media, supporters and clubs directors but they still deliver young developed talent. How do they do that you wonder? Well, the answer is faith and sadly, we don't see enough of it here with the youths at Chelsea.

If any youngsters do force their way into our extremely expensively developed squad then I take my hat off to them because that is one big acheivement.

Borussia Dortmund trying to indulge Bayern Munich's excellent period in German... - Victoria Times Colonist

FRANKFURT - When Borussia Dortmund grabbed both domestic brands last year, it embarrassed Bayern Munich 5-2 in the German Cup final. A similar result in Wednesday's quarterfinals with this year's competition will be a feeling. Bayern has been steamrolling through the Bundesliga time to sit a huge 17 things before Dortmund in the rankings. But Dortmund can still spoil Bayern's time if it can defeat the Bavarians in Munich. "Bayern is having a great season," Dortmund's instructor Juergen Klopp said. "But when we are at 100 per cent, anything can be done. We know that we are one of the few clubs in the world that can defeat Bayern." The problem is Dortmund hasn't been at 100 % in 2010. And sometimes the team has lacked fortune, like when it absolutely was held to a draw by Borussia Moenchengladbach in the Bundesliga on Sunday. Bayern is coming off a 6-1 thrashing of Werder Bremen where coach Jupp Heynckes used six players from the table. "Bayern has not had any reason to fear in the last couple weeks, and players can be rotated by them without losing quality," Klopp said. Still, Klopp has some reason to be optimistic. Whilst the past five showdowns before which were all Dortmund wins, the 2 sides drew 1-1 in the group in December. "We have seen that Bayern's regard for people has grown," Klopp said. In Tuesday's matches, Mainz hosts Freiburg and Wolfsburg moves to third-division club Kickers Offenbach. On Wednesday, Stuttgart plays second-division team Bochum, accompanied by the featured match in Munich. Klopp will use Poland striker Robert Lewandowski, who is stopped in the Bundesliga but designed for the glass. Prolonged rumours in the German media have joined Lewandowski with a go on to Bayern next period. Lewandowski's agent has suggested to the Polish media that the striker may keep Dortmund, although he didn't specify a destination. If his contract does not be extended by Lewandowski with Dortmund, the membership will probably let him go after this season as it could be the last possiblity to cash in on one of its top players. Bayern is going to be without suspended winger Franck Ribery, but Heynckes' staff has been in this kind of overwhelming type that even that may possibly not be a lot of one factor despite the Frenchman's importance for the part. "We consider ourselves quite strong and we know what Dortmund is effective at and how they harm us in the past," midfielder Thomas Mueller said. "We wish to win games and so we've to win Wednesday. You can find no guarantees but this isn't such a negative moment for the match." Midfielder Toni Kroos said there was undoubtedly in his mind which was the club in Germany, even though Bayern has failed to gain a name in the past two seasons. "We were unable to show it on the field, unfortunately, and Dortmund deserved to be champion," he said. After seeing his team tear apart Bremen 6-1, Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said: "We are well prepared" for Dortmund and that "Berlin is our target," referring to the place for the cup final. A Copyright 2013

Via: HNK Cibalia Vinkovci - HNK Hajduk Split [Live Football]

Arsenal set to battle Man United for Newcastle star? Transfer news from ... - Mirror.co.uk

PLUS: Liverpool boss scouts Carragher replacement and the big guns begin circling for Swansea's Capital One Cup heroes

Arsenal will go head to head with Manchester United in a bid to land Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye. (Daily Express)

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has stepped up his search to find Jamie Carragher's successor by running a personal check on Feyenoord defender Stefan De Vrij this weekend. (Daily Mail)

Southampton midfielder Gaston Ramirez is a target for Italian giants Inter Milan, Juventus and Fiorentina. (The Sun)

Swansea face a summer scrap to keep hold of Capital One Cup final hero Ashley Williams with Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham all keen on the defender. (Metro)

Manchester City are ready to open talks with Yaya Toure about a new five-year deal worth a staggering £55m. (Daily Star)

Giorgios Karagounis is set for contract talks to stay at Fulham beyond the end of the season. The Greece midfielder, 36 next month, signed as a free agent. (Daily Mail)

Link: SC Paderborn 07 - FC Energie Cottbus [Live Football]

Arsenal FC vs Aston Villa LIVE Commentary - Goal.com

More Info: Everton FC - Oldham Athletic [Live Football]

Collection FC : The Great, Terrible And 'Invisibility Cloak' Of Lukas Podolski - The Hard Handle

Lukas Podolski has made a fairly good begin to his Arsenal profession this season. We take a look at his report card so far and explain the good and the maybe not so good facet of his sport. Such could be the exalted position occupied by footballing media in todayas sporting landscape which they simply travel season-long narratives for football clubs. For Arsenal in 2010, itas all been about the departure of Robin van Persie and how Wengeras hastily gathered group of ragamuffins have failed to deal with said departure. Every reasonable opportunity missed is followed by avan Persie would have scored thata and other nuggets of wisdom-y wisdom; every Man United win with van Persieas name on the report sheet elicits an aoh how Arsenal can do with this man inside their ranks!a; and any particularly impressive little bit of skill by Arsenalas current forwards results in athat was a first toucha and similar encomiums. Yes, it is got by us. Not that the media are wrong, by itself. The Gunners definitely miss having the silky-toed Dutchman lead the line for them; any team could feel the pinch when one of the best strikers in Europe leaves in his prime. Is in testing Arsenalas replacement strikers, particularly Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud, by the same yardstick because they do van Persie where in fact the media are wrong. As players changing to a new country and a new club, it'd be nigh-on unrealistic you may anticipate from their website the footballing pyrotechnics that van Persie performed in his final season at the Emirates. Seen in isolation, both of Arsenalas newly-unwrapped frontmen experienced reasonable starts with their careers in red-and-white. We focus here on Lukas Podolski, who was obtained from Cologne for roughly 10 million pounds and has played both as a single striker and wide left forward for the Gunners up to now. When term of Podolski signing for Arsenal reached their eclectic fan-base, there is practically an equal split between expectation and apprehension: expectation that FC Cologneas hero and one of the cornerstones of the German national team would rise to another stage and persuade be profitable, and stress that Prince Poldi would turn out to be an damp squib as he had at Bayern Munich. Seven months down the road, there's been considerable evidence to give support to both of the aforementioned theories, as Podolski has intermittently happy and disappointed. Podolskias skill-set is well publicized: a of a foot, bloody-minded directness, quick changes on the counter-attack, and correct distribution from the wings. Thereas an excellent conciseness in the way he represents when on track a' every pass is fresh, every give-and-go is no showier than it requires to be, every handle put in is sans extras, tracking right back is done with a minimum of fussa a comfortable and happy Podolski is unbeeindruckt in the face of most hazards. Such laconicism flourishes best when itas surrounded by expressiveness, and Arsenalas unperturbed German has expectedly had his best activities when the total midfield and strike-force have fired on all cylinders. Podolski will never run rings around the entire resistance group and report with a bodacious pelvic thrust; he will be the one fizzing a simple but dangerous mix into the box, or kneeing the ball into the net after a corner-time struggle, or busting a gut to provide a supporting run on the counter. Podolskias most useful sport in an Arsenal top up to now got against West Ham at home, and his performance that day presented the trademark terseness of expression properly. Following the guests had taken a distress lead, the Gunners were brought by Podolski back in the match with a tracer-bullet of a go from thirty yards out. Then, in the 2nd half, he enjoyed an elegant but powerful one-two with Giroud before sliding in Cazorla for 3-1. Hardly a minute later, he'd the ball on the left side again, and sprayed an cross-field ball for Walcott to report. Again, the replays were hardly over when he charged down the medial side such as a thorough rhino and hit a low cross for Giroud to push home. Net-buster of an objective in the initial half aside, there was no aOh snap!a moment of genius from Podolski in that game, no transcendental piece of talent that made one apply eyes to oneas. It was simple things done just, it was going from point A to Z without having a myriad prevents in pointless alphabets along the way. As Podolski is economical in his virtues, therefore is he indifferent in his deficiencies. Seldom are you going to see Podolski having an abjectly terrible sport, losing moves like billy-o, or tanking shots left, right, and centre. Podolskias poor games are his invisible games: games where the amount of his contributions will be to move the ball back once again to his full-back, set an erratic foot or two out for tackling, and generally shy from any significant contribution. While Gervinho hilariously fails (but tries) and draws all method of invective in his course, Podolski will hang on a hammock and drink pina colada on the left wing. A person sporadically switching off for activities is not unheard of, but this recent Arsenal group doesnat have the mandatory quality to properly take passengers. On a negative time, Podolski has most of the end product of a rigor-mortis upset cadaver. This is never more evident than against Bradford. Podolski was almost a of Arsenal that stormy night: technically better than the weight, but hemmed down and pushed into impotence by work, enthusiasm, and drive. He unfailingly had two players snapping at his heels, haranguing him in to making errors, and he couldnat handle it. Itas said about good players that they can make a moment of brilliance even on a poor time, but Podolski seems more suited to moments of productivity than moments of brilliance. Granted that he's a well-honed poacheras reaction, something thatas an issue at Ashburton Grove, but one only needs to look at how Podolski gets replaced across the 70 minute level usually to know that heas not necessarily your amoment of magica type of player. Perhaps not in Arsene Wengeras eyes up to now, anyway. To conclude, Podolskias record card to date would read something to the song of aGood start, but can perform bettera. His enjoying model is rife with a typical sense thatas not-so-common, and one can see him taking cost as one of the leaders of this team in the a long time. But, there are certainly a fair few uneven arrows in his quiver that he wants to straighten out if he needs to make the step up from Prince to King. Dumb Abhishek Iyer is a freelance basketball author and spends nearly all of his time wallowing in the seedy wetlands of BigFourZa with a tear-stained Arsenal scarf. After that, he's an contributor to 90 Minutes, Arsenal Vision and, needless to say, The Hard Tackle. Follow him on twitter a' @Nickspinkboots

United to dash the cash for Ash? Sir Alex Ferguson hunting up a move for... - Mirror.co.uk

Manchester United are weighing up a transfer for the person who "could have killed" Robin van Persie, reports the Sunday People's Dave Kidd Getty Manchester United are weighing up a surprise move for Swansea skipper Ashley Williams a' the man Sir Alex Ferguson infamously said "could have killed" Robin van Persie. Williams, who captains the Swans in today's Capital One Cup Final, is a known goal of Liverpool, with former employer Brendan Rodgers a huge admirer. However now Ferguson, who had been raging about Williams kicking the ball at a grounded Van Persie all through December's clash at Swansea, is keeping close tabs on the Wales centre-back as he looks to revamp his protection. Table-topping United have conceded 31 objectives in 26 Premier League games this phrase. Flashpoint: Williams was involved with a fracas against United earlier in 2010 Getty Rio Ferdinand, a close friend of Williams, may not stay at Old Trafford next period, while Nemanja Vidic has been injury-prone over the past two months. Though 28-year-old Williams would charge at least A10million, He is seen by Ferguson as a potential skilled alternative after a superb 18 months in the top flight with the Swans. Williams is under contract until 2015, a contract which was signed only in October, and is thought to generate around A25,000 per week. Therefore Swansea might demand top dollar for a new player who in addition has been the main topic of estimates from Newcastle and QPR since he found its way to the Premier League.

Via: Saint-Etienne - Lille OSC [Live Football]

Yankees OF Granderson fails supply, out 10 weeks

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) a' New York Yankees outfielder Curtis Granderson will probably be out up to 10 weeks with a broken right wrist. The slugger was struck by way of a frequency from Toronto's J.A. Happ in the bottom of the initial inning Sunday. The Yankees originally called it bruise but X-rays revealed the break. The strike is really a key one for the Yankees, who are already without Alex Rodriguez until at least the All-Star break. Granderson brought Ny with 43 homers last season. Matt Diaz and Juan Rivera, in your competition for the fourth outfielder place, could see increased playing time.

Link: St Mirren - Hearts [Live Football]

Harry Redknapp Will Not Quit QPR Even If They Are Relegated ...

Harry Redknapp will not quit Queens Park Rangers if the club are relegated from the Premier League at the end of the season.

Tony Fernandes, owner of the Premier League's bottom club, has held talks with Redknapp and has been assured that his manager will not walk away from Loftus Road if QPR fail to hold onto their place in the top flight.

Source: Sky SportsFernandes wrote on Twitter: "I am optimistic as ever. I'm still smiling. It's the next 8 games. Lots of good things. Good chat with Harry on the future come what may. We know what we have to do. Many points to play for.

"I'm responsible for this mess ultimately. I have heard the fans and I will stay and fix it. I really love QPR. We can sort this out. Not sure how many times I can pledge. I'm pledging. Ain't going anywhere as long as the fans want me."

QPR have just 17 points this season and are seven points from safety in the Premier League after going down 2-0 at home to leaders Manchester United on Saturday. They have 11 games to safe themselves from the drop.

Redknapp, who took over from Mark Hughes with the club rooted to the bottom of the table, has previously turned around fortunes at Tottenham and Portsmouth to earn his nickname as Harry Houdini.

He has pinned his hopes on the forthcoming games against their relegation rivals as the only hope of securing enough points to avoid relegation.

Link: Paris Saint Germain - Olympique Marseille [Live Football]

Dozens hurt after accident debris hits Daytona stands

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) a' With the beginning of the Daytona 500 only hours away, NASCAR officials still possess some clearing up to complete amid developing concerns about fan security. The season opener should go off as in the pipeline Sunday significantly less than 24 hours after at least 33 individuals were injured each time a vehicle flew into the wall throughout a NASCAR race at Daytona International Speedway, sending a tire and large pieces of debris sailing into the stands. "Just seeing the carnage on the racetrack, it had been really unbelievable," driver Justin Allgaier said. The final-lap accident Saturday marred the second-tier Nationwide Series battle on the eve of a scene known as the Super Bowl of motorsports. Late to the night, track workers were battling to fix an enormous portion of fence that divides fans from the high-speed track. Speedway President Joie Chitwood III has a news conference scheduled for Sunday morning to offer the latest update on repairs and any security changes that could be created before the "Great American Race." The 12-car crash began about 200 feet from the start-finish line as the checkered flag was approached by the front-runners. Chief Regan Smith attempted to stop Brad Keselowski for the win, causing a terrible pileup which could have already been much worse. Leading end of Larson's No. 32 car was sheared off, and his burning motor wedged through a gaping hole in the barrier. Parts and pieces of his car sprayed into the stands, including a tire that removed the top of the fence and landed midway up the spectator section closest to the course. The 20-year-old Larson stood in shock a couple of feet from his car as fans in the stands waved frantically for help. The area was briefly clouded by smoke from the burning engine, and emergency vehicles descended on the world. Ambulance sirens might be observed wailing behind the grandstands at the same time the race winner would usually be doing celebratory burnouts. "It was creepy. The incident happened," Rick Harpster of Orange Park said, when I looked to my right. "I looked over and I found a tire fly directly over the wall to the stands, but from then on I did not see anything else. That was the worst thing I've seen, seeing that tire travel into the stands. I knew it was going to be severe." Shannan Devine of Egg Harbor Township, N.J., was sitting about 250 feet from where in fact the car smashed in to the wall and can see plumes of smoke directly before her. "I did not know if there was a vehicle on top of people. Used to do maybe not know what to think," she said. "I am a psychological person and I immediately started initially to cry. It was very stressful. Positively terrifying. I love the pace of the game. But it is really dangerous." Chitwood said 14 supporters were treated on site and 14 others were taken to hospitals. Local authorities said 19 people were taken up to nearby hospitals, including two who were in crucial but stable condition. Because of possible injuries, competition winner Tony Stewart missed the original victory celebration. Stewart, who won for the 19th time at Daytona and seventh time within the last few eight season-opening Nationwide events, was in no mood to enjoy. "The thing is what's going on on the frontstretch right now," explained Stewart, a three-time NASCAR champ. "We have always known, and because racing started, this is a dangerous game. However it is hard. We assume that chance, but it is hard if the fans get caught up in it. "So as much even as we want to celebrate as much and right now as it is a big deal to us, I'm more focused on the individuals and the fans that come in the stands right now since that was... It could be seen by me all in my own mirror, and it did not look good from where I was at." There were at the least five stretchers carrying injured people from the stands, and a helicopter flew overhead. Their attention was turned by officials to the course and the debris after injured were treated. A forklift plucked Larson's motor out of the fence, and individuals carried the tire out of the stands. It was a severe finish to a battle that was stopped for almost 20 minutes five laps from the finish by a accident that sent Michael Annett to driver to a hospital. His Richard Petty Motorsports group said he'd be kept overnight with bruising to his chest. The battle resumed with three laps to go, and the final accident occurred with Smith trying to postpone Keselowski through the final turn. "It is Daytona. You wish to select the gain here," Smith said. "I do not understand how you are able to enjoy it any different, apart from admit second place, and I wasn't ready to do this today. Our job is to place them in place to win, and it was, and it didn't work out." While the cars started ruining all over Smith and Keselowski, Stewart slid through for the gain, but Larson plowed into Keselowski and his car was delivered flying into the fence. When Larson's car found a stop, it had been missing its whole front end. Larson, who made his Daytona debut this week, stood together with his practical his hips before finally making the mandatory trip to the treatment center. "I got a couple of big strikes there and found my motor was gone," Larson said. "Just wish everyone's all right." It seemed supporters were prearranged over the fence when Larson's car got airborne. But Chitwood said there was a stream, putting there could be no changes to the sitting prior to the Daytona 500. "We do not anticipate moving some of our fans," Chitwood said. "We had our safety protocols in position. Our safety managed a stream that separates the supporters from the fencing place. With the fencing being prepared today to our safety practices, we expect you'll go racing tomorrow with no changes." Keselowski watched a replay of the accident and said the Daytona 500 on it may cast a. "I think until we know the statuses of everybody concerned, it's hard to lock your self to the 500," Keselowski said. "Hopefully, we'll know soon and hopefully everyone's OK. And if that's the case, we'll looking emphasizing Sunday." And AP Activities Authors Jenna Fryer, Dan Gelston and Jerome Minerva in Daytona Beach and Associated Press author Jennifer Kay in Ohio contributed for this survey.

More Info: Corinthians SP - millionaires [Live Football]

Roberto Mancini in Manchester United jibe|The Sun|Sport|Football

Area experience a massive job to shut their rivalsa 15-point advantage, starting at home to third-placed Chelsea today. But Etihad boss Mancini reckons United have experienced the stroke of the green. And he details to Decemberas Manchester derby when United nicked a 3-2 win through Robin van Persieas injury-time target. Mancini said: aUntil today United were fortunate with everything. They won plenty of activities within the last few minutes.a The two teams are as a result of meet again at Old Trafford on April 8. But Mancini added: aIf United move forward in the Champions League the past 8 weeks will undoubtedly be hard for them. aThey might lose five factors in two games ahead of the derby.a

Via: FC Admira - Red Bull Salzburg [Live Football]

Casillas recovering from surgery wants with getting championship title this season

Iker Casillas says his recovery from the broken bone in his hand goes better than expected and he could possibly be back involving the Real Madrid posts when late March.

Casillas' finger was broken by an accidental end from his team-mate Alvaro Arbeloa during Madrid's Copa del Rey quarter-final recreation at the Mestalla on January 23.

It absolutely was feared he'd experience three months on the sidelines, and the club moved quickly to signal Diego Lopez for 3.5 million from Sevilla to play in their likely season-defining games against Barcelona in the Copa and Manchester United in the Champions League.

The Madrid club leader told reporters on Thursday night, at the opening of a new club store at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, that the first schedule had only been a worst-case scenario.

"I am feeling really positive," Casillas said. "The surgeon gave me the worst-case scenario, he said 90 days it could take. But when the splint was removed last week, I was told I'd four weeks left. Now I'm doing effective exercises to obtain mobility and strength in the finger."

Casillas said he'd been working hard at Madrid's Valdebebas training center to obtain straight back playing the moment possible.

"Until now I have perhaps not had much energy in it, but I am receiving it back little by little," he said. "We are at the halfway point of the injury. I have still got monthly to go. I'll need to work more and experience more to obtain right back the freedom of before. I'm getting excited about returning. It is worse being off the message than on it."

The event was also visited by Casillas' team-mates including Arbeloa, Xabi Alonso, Karim Benzema, Angel Di Maria, Jose Callejon, Nacho and Kaka, while coach Jose Mourinho was missing.

Alonso told reporters that he did not know yet whether he would recover from his groin problem in time for next Tuesday's Copa semi-final second leg at Barcelona's Camp Nou.

"I am in the healing stage," the midfielder said. "I am hoping to get better when possible, to have reduce the disquiet and reunite in top form. When I will get ready plenty of people ask. I desire to be able to play against Barca, but I don't have a solution right now."

Former Liverpool person Alonso stated that, with the tie balanced at 1-1, whoever scored first in the Champions League last 16 reunite sport at Manchester United on March 5 would be favourites to advance.

"They could have the help of their fans," he said. "It will probably be described as a challenge. The side that results first is going to be favourites. Old Trafford is a great surface and it is the kind of match all of us like to play. The tie is extremely open."

Di Maria said that it could fit Madrid to be playing overseas in both of the future, potentially season-defining, activities.

"Things are getting well and hopefully to carry on this way," he explained. "We know that we've to have large matches in both competitions and that it'll perhaps not be easy. Maybe playing away is likely to be within our favor because we prosper when things are against us. We have had this week to work with the best way to approach the games. I really hope everything goes well."

Benzema, who remains question for Saturday evening's La Liga game at Deportivo La Coruna, said he was not concerned about his current poor form in front of target.

"I hope than I have to date that I score more goals, but the important things is the team and to win the upcoming matches," he explained. "We need certainly to come together to win. We've an excellent team and we are all in good form."

Kaka executed excellent in the game against Deportivo

"From the first minute of the 2nd half we found a change of attitude. We didn't get because of the alterations, that have been made in the minute of the second half, but because of the change we made. It absolutely was the attitude of all the players that sparked the comeback.

"It holds true that actually he [Kaka] is playing well. His mind-set helps him and this is very important to the team, that he's playing well and that he's another option. That's always good. 

Kaka's performance also earned the reward of assistant coach Aitor Karanka, who had been pleased about the result of the group after going behind to a Riki hit on 35 minutes. 
"We knew that Deportivo weren't playing well and saw us as an opportunity to change their fortunes. In the second half we increased our play, we scored two goals and we could simply take the three things house with us." 

Until the Blaugrana edged out Sevilla afterwards Saturday evening, the gain moved Real to within 13 factors of league leaders Barcelona. Despite the margin remaining the exact same, Kaka feels success over Depor may enhance Real's likelihood of claiming wallpaper this term. 

"I am better. What we have around the corner is exciting and it is the critical area of the season and if the director wants me to play I will be there to help in those matches." 

"The group is playing well and things are becoming better for me personally too. In baseball every thing changes quickly and I'm happy to support the team win. 
"[It was] an essential success in an exceedingly hard match. In the initial half we were only a little nervous and a few mistakes were made by us. In the second half we increased and we won three points that are essential for us and for what is to come over the next several weeks," Kaka told the club's officers site. 
True came from behind at the Riazor, with Kaka scoring the equaliser before Gonzalo Higuain obtained an 88th-minute winner for the visitors. After suffering a difficult spell with minimal sport time, Kaka now feels because they turn to keep their La Liga and Champions League hopes alive he is able to help his group. 

Kaka has expressed delight at his new change in fortunes, because the playmaker starred in Real Madrid's 2-1 comeback victory over Deportivo Manhunter Coruna. 

Ricardo Kaka executed terrific in the game against Deportivo La Coruna

"From the initial moment of the next half we found a big change of attitude. We didn't win because of the substitutions, which were made in the twelfth second of the second half, but because of the change we made. It absolutely was the attitude of all the participants that started the recovery.

"It holds true that actually he [Kaka] is playing well. His frame of mind assists him and this is essential for the staff, that he's another option and that he is playing well. That is usually positive. 

Kaka's performance also received the praise of assistant coach Aitor Karanka, who was happy with the result of the group after planning behind to a Riki attack on 35 minutes. 
"We knew that Deportivo were not playing well and saw us being an opportunity to change their fortunes. However in the next half we improved our play, we scored two goals and we could actually simply take the three points home with us." 

The win moved Real to within 13 points of group leaders Barcelona, until the Blaugrana edged out Sevilla afterwards Saturday morning. Regardless of the profit remaining the same, Kaka feels victory over Depor could raise Real's odds of claiming wallpaper this phrase. 

"I am better. What we've nearby is fascinating and it is the major part of the period and if the manager wants me to play I'll be there to greatly help in these matches." 

"The group is playing well and things are getting better for me personally also. In baseball anything changes quickly and I'm pleased to help the team win. 
"[It was] an essential victory in a very hard match. In the first half we were just a little anxious and we made a few errors. In the second half we increased and we won three points which are essential for us and for what's in the future over the next few weeks," Kaka told the club's officers site. 
True came from behind at the Riazor, with Kaka rating the equaliser before an 88th-minute winner was scored by Gonzalo Higuain for the readers. After enduring a difficult spell with minimal sport time, Kaka now thinks as they turn to keep their La Liga and Champions League hopes alive he can help his staff. 

Kaka has expressed pleasure at his recent change in fortunes, as the playmaker starred in Real Madrid's 2-1 comeback victory over Deportivo La Coruna. 

Bundesliga: Matchday 23 Roundup - Bayern wallops Bremen, up 18

Munich - Bayern remains it runaway cause in the Bundesliga with 60 points in 23 matches. Greuther Fuerth's bundesliga days are numbered. Bayern dominated Bremen during, quickly earning 6-1. The win gives an stage lead to Bayern over its closest competitors. With the completions of the round of 16 Champions League first leg, FC Bayern, Borussia Dortmund and Schalke 04 have attained for the return matches results that place them in good stead. In the Euro League just Stuttgart higher level to the round of 16. With only brief breaks in between their European games, the clubs returned to Bundesliga competition. FC Bayern continued to perform such as for instance a potential champion, defeating Werder Bremen 6-1. Hannover with the Euro League tension from the way, waltzed over Hamburger SV 5-1. The remainder of the fits were close and for the absolute most part finished needlessly to say. With the league title all however in the case, Bayern centers around its DFB Cup quarter ultimate match a few weeks against Borussia Dortmund. Bayern's instructor enjoyed Arjen Robben, Martinez and Mario Gomez for the league competition, offering a rest to Mandzukic, Mueller, Kroos and Schweinsteiger. Bayern's purpose in 2010 would be to get three glasses, the Bundesliga, the DFB Cup and the Champions League. At the bottom end of the group, Augsburg, Hoffenheim and Greuther Fuerth is likely to be in a battle in order to help keep the choices of remaining in the Bundesliga next time open to maneuver to 16th area. Its first test was won by augsburg today by defeating Hoffenheim. Seven points is the separation of the bottom three from 15th place, with only 11 games left in the summer season. SC Freiburg vs Eintracht Frankfurt 0-0 Throughout the first half Frankfurt, with its constant pressure and fast changing surfaces caused it to be problematic for Freiburg to locate its sport flow. Frankfurt's Aigner had several opportunities, which both missed the mark or were thwarted by Freiburg's owner Oliver Baumann. Stefan Aigner's most useful chance came in the 17th second, when his picture from about 16 yards just missed the mark. Freiburg found to its sport about half way through the half, but weren't successful in effectively penetrating the Frankfurt goal area and offering punishing shots on goal. With few score options the half finished in a scoreless draw. Hamilton Academical Bayern Muenchen versus Werder Bremen 6-1 In something special to Bayern instructor Jupp Heynckes, who contested his 1000th Bundesliga game today, Bayern increased its lead in the Bundesliga to 18 items. Werder Bremen held its own for around 20 minutes of the match, but targets by Arjen Robben (25th) and Martinez (29th) gave a two goal cause to Bayern at the half. In the 2nd half, Bayern's "Schuetzenfest" continued with Gomez's targets in the 52nd and 89th minute and Ribery's in the 86th. Bremen's Selassie recorded an goal in the 49th second. Bremen's only goal came in the 58th minute, when DeBruyne found the back of the internet. Bremen has slipped to 12th location. VFB Stuttgart versus 1.FC Nuernberg 1-1 Stuttgart dominated the play in the initial half, though composure was gained by Nuernberg through the entire half. Despite Stuttgart's bad pose, the initial half kept scoreless. After the halftime break Stuttgart took the 1-0 lead with an objective by Traore in the second. While Nuernberg failed to have the beat, Stuttgart had trouble capitalizing. Wanting to defend its cause, Stuttgart pulled back and forced through with the table. The equalizer was got by markus Feulner for Nuernberg in the second. The finish stage of the game was gradual and neither side was in a position to score the winning goal. Stuttgart goes around 11th spot, while Nuernberg remains in 14th. Hamilton Academical Augsburg versus 1899 Hoffenheim 2-1 With both groups in the relegation zone, this contest was an effort to access 16th position, which will enable the occupant to perform a two game aggregate to keep in the Bundesliga against the third place 2. Bundesliga membership. Augsburg came out on top because of greater work ethic, which provided more scoring opportunities. While Augsburg dominated, Hoffenheim seldom confronted in Augsburg's penatly place. With Ji's purpose in the 45th minute, Augsburg led 2-0 at the half. Augsburg doubled its tally in the 79th moment with Moelder's target. The score was narrowed by hoffenheim to 2-1 in the 90th minute when DeCarmargo put the ball into the web. Augsburg moved in to 16th spot, while Hoffenheim dropped to 17th. Hannover 96 versus Hamburger SV 5-1 Hannover waltzed over Hamburg, inspite of the pressure of its early in the day conflict in the Euro League. Hannover demonstrably centered in its own led its counter attacks in addition to attacks. Inspite of the gain, the score has been higher. Hamburg had the perspective, but didn't impress offensively. Hannover led at the half 3-1 and completed Hamburg off in the second with two more goals. FSV Mainz vs VFL Wolsburg 1-1 This match was decided in the initial 15 minutes. Mainz took the lead in the sixth moment with Zimling's target. Minutes were equalized ten by wolfsburg later when Naldo found the goal. While Wolfsburg pressed hard from the beginning, an error triggered the very first target for Mainz. The overall game was fairly open, but Wolfburg's Alexander Madlung was sent off with a card after 30 minuteess. Despite Mainz's person benefit, there have been no more scoring chances. Schalke 04 compared to Fortuna Duesseldorf 2-1 During the first half Schalke had get a handle on of the overall game. Duesseldorf's performance was benign and focused primarily on the defensive. Duesseldorf's owner Fabian Giefer avoided Schalke from leading with more than one purpose in the very first half. Despite a dismal record for the past few games Schalke got draws against Mainz and Galatasary during the last two games. These games appeared to have restored the confidence in the Knappen. Schalke's target in the very first half arrived at the 29 minute level of the match, when Matin obtained on a move from Jerome Jones. Duesseldorf was a different staff in the second half and the constant unpleasant pressure on Schalke repaid in the 59th minute when Bellinghausen got the equalizer. Matip got his 2nd of the evening for Schalke to win the game for the Gelsenkirchen club. Duesseldor, in the second half was atlanta divorce attorneys way the equivalent with Schalke and consequently the supporters were treated to an enjoyable match. With 33 items Schalke is striking distance from an League spot, but presently remains in ninth spot. Duesseldorf remains in 13th with 27 points. DFB Pot The focus now turns toward the DFB Cup with the very best pick being the game in Munich's Allianz Arena when Bayern hosts Borussia Dortmund. A Munich would all but guarantee success within their venture for the German Football Association Cup. 26 February FSV Mainz 05 versus SC Freiburg Kickers Offenbach vs VfL Wolfsburg 27 February VfB Stuttgart compared to VfL Bochum Bayern MAnchen versus Borussia Dortmund Matchday 23 fixtures and results Friday February 22 SC Freiburg vs Eintracht Frankfurt 0-0 Sunday February 23 Hamilton Academical Bayern compared to Werder Bremen 6-1 VfB Stuttgart vs 1.FC Nuernberg 1-1 FC Augsburg vs 1899 Hoffenheim 2-1 Hannover 96 versus Hamburger SV 5-1 FSV Mainz 05 vs VfL Wolfsburg 1-1 Schalke 04 compared to Fortuna DAsseldorf 2-1 Wednesday February 24 M'gladbach compared to Borussia Dortmund Greuther Fuerth vs Bayer Leverkusen Posn----Team-----------GP---W---D---L---GF/GA--Pts 1---------FC Bayern------- 23---19---3---1-----63:8-----60 2---------Dortmund--------22---12---6---4-----50:26----42 3---------Leverkusen------22---12---5---5-----43:30----41 4---------Frankfurt----------23---11---5---7-----38:34 ---38 5---------Freiburg-----------23-----9---8---6-----29:22----35 6---------Hamburg----------23---10----4---9-----28:32----34 7-------- Hannover----------23---10----3--10-----46:42----33 8---------Mainz---------------23-----9----6---8-----31:28----33 9---------Schalke-------------23-----8----6---8-----37:38----33 10-------M'gladbach--------22-----7-----9---6-----31:33----30 11-------Stuttgart------------23-----8-----5--10----25:40----29 12-------Bremen-------------23-----8-----4--11----39:47----28 13-------DAsseldorf---------23-----7-----6--10----28:31----27 14-------NArnberg-----------23-----6-----9----8----23:30----27 15-------Wolfsburg----------23-----7-----6---10----23:33----27 16--------Augsburg----------23-----3-----9---11----20:36----18 17-------Hoffenheim---------23-----4-----4---15----27:48----16 18--------Greuther FArth---22-----2-----6---14----13:36----12

More Info: SCR Altach - SV Grödig [Live Football]

Liverpool FC v FC Zenit E Petersburg [Europa League]: Match...

For the second time this week LiverpoolAfaceAa staff that's overwhelmed them in a cup competition this time, as they hostAZenit St Petersburg at Anfield in the second leg of their Europa League wrap. Earlier in the day in the season the Reds were eliminated from the Main City One Cup after putting up with a home loss to Swansea, who Liverpool delt toAin the Premier League on Monday winning 5-0.A Despite fielding a weaker side with one eye on this weekas League Cup final, the Swans were well off the rate in their group rout, whilst the scoreline and performance has provided Liverpool hope they could turn around their prospects in Europe. Liverpool got away from Russia the other day vastly disappointedAafter an excellent 80 minutes was spoiled by an incredible strike by Zenitas Hulk, and a period of time of switching off defensively, producing a 2-0 loss.A Defensive problems have lead to resistance goals much too often this year, and the Reds were haunted by their own challenges again during their away journey. ButAconfidence is high around Anfield that, on the trunk ofAthe Swansea gain, the participants can provide enough goalsAat house to push their way in to the Europa Leagueas ultimate 16.A However that difficult task will need to be performed without Liverpoolas two jan signings a Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho a' who're both ineligible. The exclusion of Sturridge is particularly worrying provided that another of Liverpoolas strike possibilities, Fabio Borini, has been ruled out for 6 to 8 days a after dislocating his neck early into this weekas Swansea fitting, heas also facing more surgery on the foot that held him out for three months.A Manager Brendan Rodgers needs to have the rest of his senior squad to pick from however, with fullback Martin Kelly the only real other long-term injury absentee. With so much riding on the consequence of this match, itas estimated Rogers can choose the best line-up possible.. While it remains to be seen who he will choose in several positions. The defense should almost choose itself, like the selection of Pepe Reina in goal.A The Redsa Spanish stopper still stays first-choice at Anfield, and has this week reiterated his desire to stay a Liverpool player, despite whispers linking him again with a go on to Barcelona.A Fullbacks Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique are almost certain to retain their locations from earlier in the day in the week, along with Daniel Agger, who should also feature. Any questions on who'll perform surroundAveteran Jamie CarragherAand Martin Skrtel, and who of the pair will partner Agger in the centre.A Skrtelas lack of variety andACarragheras lack of rate have already been the sticking points for many, but the formeras strength and the latteras enterprise will be major concerns for their inclusion.A One wonders if Skrtel will be pressing hard to face his former club a' the Slovakian helped Zenit to the Russian league title in 2007, before going to Liverpool. Ahead of them the midfield trio would seem to be fairly intelligent, with Lucas and Jordan Henderson the most likely choices to partner leader Steven Gerrard.A Joe Allen began ahead of Lucas in the absent leg, with the 2-0 decline attributed in part to Liverpoolas lack of a traditional defensive midfielder.A The Brazilianas presence also gives Gerrard the power a and confidence a to surge forward more regularly, which will soon be required as the Reds go in search of the goals had a need to avoid elimination.A Hendersonas supplement should seriously the back of good type, and the power which he offers in abundance. Talking about objectives, plenty of the responsibility will even fall on the shoulders of Luis Suarez.A The Uruguayanas finish was below-standard at Petrovsky Stadium in thei first knee, but he turned that around against Swansea scoring one, winning a punishment andAproviding the help for Coutinhoas first target for the membership. In the first leg Rodgers experimented by enjoying midfielder Jonjo Shelvey in a central fighting position and, for the most part, it was a highly effective enough plan.A The lack of an obviously instinctive goal-scorer left the Zenit goal region devoid of red shirts at times, but Shelvey caused enough complications to at least can be found in to consideration. Stewart Downing and Raheem Sterling are the other apparent contenders for inclusion in the starting line-up and, must Rodgers opt for Shelvey up front, the prediction is Downing could begin with the pace of Sterling an issue later in the game.A They might both have the call-up though, with the possibility of Suarez returning to a far more central position. Goals from Hulk and Sergey Semak guaranteed Zenitas home win, and the former will be a person to view again.A The Brazilian vast man notched up 54 objectives in 99 performances for Porto before going to Russia in 2010, and has very little to talk about in terms of weakness.A His linking with Zenitas different opponents will be anything the Liverpool support will have to do itas best to nullify. HulkasAformer Porto teammate Bruno Alves is just a strong existence at the back, along with Belgian international Nicolas Lombaerts, who should provide good service down Zenitas left flank.A Fellow Belgian internation Axel Witsel offers a fantastic fulcrum in the Zenit midfield along with chief Roman Shirokov, andAVyacheslav Malafeev providesAZenit withAan excellent stopper between the threads. Alongside seeking to score at least twice to keep their hopes alive, Liverpool know they must also prevent Zenit from scoring an essential absent goal, so a clean page will be just as important as a substance approaching display.A Should Zenit score, the Reds will need to return in at least four to progress to another round. After a poor past week that saw Liverpool drain toAback-to-back 2-0 failures in the only games they are still living in, this week Liverpool have the possiblity to nearly entirely change things around by getting their continuation in the Europa League. YNWA!

More Info: AS Monaco - RC Lens [Live Football]

Bayern Munich Initiate Talks With Real Madrid Playmaker Mesut Ozil ...

Bayern Munich have begun informal talks with representatives of Real Madrid midfielder Mesut Ozil ahead of a summer bid to bring the German international to the Allianz Arena according to TuttoMercato.

fanatix tickets – El Clasico tickets are still available for the biggest derby match in Europe.Real Madrid vs Barcelona tickets are on sale for this massive La Liga clash at the Bernabeau on March 3rd.

The former Werder Bremen midfielder is into his third season at the Bernabeu and has been something of an assist-making machine for the Spanish giants.

Ozil has racked up 64 assists in 140 appearances for Real Madrid and is surely a player Jose Mourinho wouldn't want to lose however the attacking midfielder may well be tempted by a move back to Germany and could be further convinced of such a switch given that Pep Guardiola is to take over at the Bavarian club this summer.

Perhaps the chances of such a move would be given a further boost if Mourinho were to leave Real Madrid and there is growing speculation that the Portuguese boss could leave the La Liga side at the end of the season.

Link: UD Levante - Osasuna [Live Football]

Queens Park Rangers vs. Manchester United: Lineups - SBNation.com

Júlio César and José Bosingwa both overcame injuries to start for QPR and considering the attack their about to face, that will help. Bobby Zamora starts in the striker role with Loïc Rémy still trying to come back from a groin issue. Harry Redknapp's side are going to need to be on their game today if they want to get any points.

With Wayne Rooney out with a sinus issue, Alex Ferguson drops Robin Van Persie into Rooney's normal role and starts Javier Hernández up top. Ashley Young makes his first Premier League start since mid-January with the ageless one Ryan Giggs in the midfield.

Queens Park Rangers starting lineup (4-2-3-1): Júlio César; José Bosingwa, Christopher Samba, Clint Hill, Armand Traoré; Stéphane M'Bia, Esteban Granero; Andros Townsend, Adel Taarabt, Jamie Mackie; Bobby Zamora.

Manchester United starting lineup (4-2-3-1): David De Gea; Rafael, Nemanja Vidić, Rio Ferdinand, Patrice Evra; Michael Carrick, Ryan Giggs; Ashley Young, Robin Van Persie, Nani; Javier Hernández.

Eredivisie: Ajax avoid Alderweireld bid - ClubCall.com

Studies in Holland report that Ajax have rejected a bid from Russian team Anzhi Makhachkala for defender Toby Alderweireld. The cash-rich club are in the industry for a new main defense, having seen Christopher Samba head to Queens Park Rangers in the January transfer window.The Russian transfer screen closes at the end of February and manager Guus Hiddink is on the look-out for a stopper, with the Belgian international said to be top of his wish-list.The 23-year-old has also been linked with a number of Premier League clubs, with Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle United said to be involved and it remains to be seen whether the gifted child would be prepared to play in the Russian league.But Ajax are unwilling to let him get at this point of the year anyway and it seems that there could be a war for the Antwerp-born star in the summer.

More Info: WKS Slask Wroclaw - Widzew Lodz [Live Football]

Mazzarri: Napoli honour Europa Category|Soccer France

Walter Mazzarri maintains Napoli will ahonour every gamea in Serie A or the Europa League, while they try to overturn a 3-0 beat to Viktoria Plzen. The Partenopei were humiliated on home turf last week and now travel to the Czech Republic for the next leg of their Round of 32 fitting, which begins at 20.05 GMT. Amazement honour every game,a said the Coach in his Press conference. aIn the very first leg we did real injury and tomorrow should try to overturn the result. aWill I be twisting the team? Even if we were playing Barcelona in the Champions League, decisions must take into consideration a Serie A game title to be played three days later. aI must enhance Viktoria and their Coach, as this staff represents good basketball and passes the ball from memory.a Marek Hamsik has already established a very hard week and misses from this game because of infection, while he was mugged at gunpoint while in his car after the 0-0 pull with Sampdoria. aThe Hamsik incident did not affect the group or him, fortunately.a Mazzarri was also asked about a history that emerged nowadays, as he was informed he wonat qualify until he attends a program at Coverciano to work as a Coach next season. aI didnat go to Coverciano this week because I had influenza. Everybody knows that whenever I have had the oppertunity to, I was often present.a Buy A seats to Serie on Viagogo, the protected ticket market, for activities featuring Juventus, Milan, Inter, Roma and more.

Via: Honved Budapest - Gyori ETO FC [Live Football]

(Video) Real Madrid Defender Sergio Ramos Gets Two Yellow ...

To be fair to the Bernabeu star both these bookings seem very harsh. Incredibly this is the 16th time Sergio Ramos has been sent off during his Real Madrid career.

fanatix tickets – El Clasico tickets are still available for the biggest derby match in Europe.Real Madrid vs Barcelona tickets are on sale for this massive La Liga clash at the Bernabeau on March 3rd.

Via: Norwich City - Everton FC [Live Football]

RKC Waalwijk 0-2 Ajax Amsterdam illustrates - 1000 Goals

RKC Waalwijk 0-2 Ajax Amsterdam highlights: Ajax Amsterdam were seeking to shut their space at the very top of Eredivisie when they travel to face RKC Waalwijk on Sunday. Visitors straight away took control of actions as they dominated the match, developing several great goal scoring possibilities before ultimately taking the lead on 22 minutes through Niklas Moisander's basic close variety finish. 5 minutes before the half time break, Ajax doubled their lead with a fine personal work from Christian Eriksen, offering the visitor a comfortable advantage starting the break. RKC went close in taking a goal back when they were awarded a penalty kick in the 2nd period, but unfortunately Robert Braber's location kick was hit directly at Ajax Keeper, making the scoreline stood a 2-0 as no teams obtained again until full-time whistle was blown. Video is highlighted by rkc Waalwijk vs Ajax Amsterdam. Score: 0-2. Eredivisie soccer match played on Monday 18 February 2013.

Europa League Betting: Zenit to endure Anfield onslaught... - Betfair

"In the group phase Liverpool lost in the home to Udinese and can only draw with Young Boys of Berne, and in the qualifiers only they were saved by a late Luis Suarez strike from a humiliating defeat to Hearts." Straight back Zenit +0.5 & +1.0 on the Asian Handicap at 2.09n/a Liverpool need among their popular European comebacks to achieve the last 16 of the Europa League, but Kevin Hatchard isn't convinced they are able to defeat Zenit St Petersburg. He does nevertheless think Chelsea can march on. Liverpool compared to Zenit E Petersburg, Thu 20:05 BST, Survive ITV1 Match Odds: Liverpool 1.684/6, Zenit 5.69/2, the bring 4.216/5 Liverpool employer Brendan Rodgers has made several public pronouncements of religion as it pertains to turning this wrap around, but make no error, last week's 2-0 defeat in Russia has left the Merseysiders' Europa League dreams hanging by a gossamer-thin thread. Liverpool's failure to score an away goal, despite the formation of many fantastic chances, might prove essential. Some observers have suggested Liverpool can take assurance from Sunday's 5-0 demolition of Swansea City at Anfield, but I believe the relevance of that result can be questioned. The Swans made seven changes for their team before Sunday's Capital One Cup final, and the edge people put in a really atrocious screen. It's also worthwhile considering that two of Liverpool's goalscorers on Sunday, Philippe Coutinho and Daniel Sturridge, are ineligible for Thursday's fit. Liverpool tend to be flat-track bullies at Anfield these days, and their property results against top-end Premier League factors are definately not impressive. While Manchester City originated in behind to take a sketch, Manchester United and Arsenal both left Merseyside with optimum details. In the Europa League group point Liverpool lost at home to Udinese and can only bring with Young Boys of Berne, and in the qualifiers only a late Luis Suarez attack saved them from an embarrassing defeat to Hearts. An additional concern is that Zenit really are a dangerous wardrobe on the travels, with seven wins inside their last eight away games. Luciano Spalletti's men have the very best absent report in the Russian Premier League, with six wins and two draws, and in the Champions League team level they won 1-0 at AC Milan. Failures at Malaga (3-0) and Anderlecht (1-0) show Zenit aren't infallible on their travels in Europe, but this time around Zenit have something to guard. Liverpool need certainly one of their famed Anfield displays, with stars like Luis Suarez and Steven Gerrard at the top form, but they are put by the lack of an away goal in the first leg in a situation. If Zenit score an objective at Anfield, Liverpool will be needing four goals to succeed, and it's worthwhile considering that Rodgers' side have kept only two Europa League clear blankets because the group stage began. Liverpool look too short to me at 1.684/6, and you might oppose them in several ways. You could only lay them, or back Zenit +0.5 & +1.0 on the Asian Handicap at 2.09n/a or back Zenit Draw Number Bet at 2.789/5. I actually do not think Liverpool will keep a clean sheet, therefore back Both Teams to Score at 1.834/5. Recommended BetsBack Zenit +0.5 & +1.0 on the Asian Handicap at 2.09n/a Straight back Both Teams to Score at 1.834/5 Chelsea vs Sparta Prague, Thu 20:05 BST, Go on ESPN Fit Odds: Chelsea 1.364/11, Sparta 12.011/1, the draw 5.49/2 The initial leg of this tie was used the intensity of a report for a new player that no-one ever really enjoyed. It had been a mind-numbingly turgid affair performed in front of a crowd that seemed like they were seated 300 miles away. Oscar's late goal gave Chelsea an undeserved 1-0 success which has absolutely killed off the tie. Their chance has been missed by sparta to cause an upset, and the Opta stats make ugly reading for supporters of the Czech membership. Sparta haven't won any one of their last five away games in all games, while Chelsea have won nine of their last nine European games at Stamford Bridge. To produce things worse for Sparta, Chelsea have banged in 28 goals inside their last seven European home activities. Chelsea can sleep Frank Lampard and Branislav Ivanovic, but anything can not be still seen by me but a convincing home win. I did not see much in the initial leg to suggest that Sparta may jeopardize the Chelsea rearguard, so it is worth a look at supporting Chelsea to Win to Nil at 2.111/10. I'm gobsmacked as you are able to back Chelsea -1.5 on the Asian Handicap at 2.01/1, so take advantage. Recommended BetsBest Bet: Back Chelsea -1.5 on the Asian Problem at 2.01/1 Straight back Chelsea to Win to Nil at 2.111/10 You will find number comments with this report.

Via: Baník Ostrava - Dynamo Ceske Budejovice [Live Football]

Lyon Vs Tottenham Preview: Europa League Team News, Predicted ...

Two stunning free-kicks from the Wales international handed Spurs a slender advantage, but the Londoners stressed their approach would remain the same at Stade Gerland.

"We are a team that normally score away from home so we hope to cancel out their advantage – we will set out the same way to try to attack," insisted manager Andre Villas-Boas.

Former Lyon goalkeeper Hugo Lloris again appears set to miss out against his old club with Villas-Boas likely to opt once more for reserve custodian Brad Friedel, while England striker Jermain Defoe remains sidelined with an ankle problem.

Tottenham goalkeeper Brad Friedel will again start in the second leg of their Europa League clash with Lyon.The 41-year-old has been used in the cup so far and will start ahead of ex-Lyon man Hugo Lloris.

Striker Jermain Defoe (ankle) has not travelled with the squad, but is expected to return to training next week.Defoe's absence will mean Emmanuel Adebayor will start up front for the Londoners.

"We're trying to unlock the best out of the player. Last year shows as an example for what we're trying to get out of him.

Lyon coach Remi Garde believes Samuel Umtiti's stunning goal in the first leg could prove crucial to their chances of making the next round.

"We need to be patient. We have 90 minutes to qualify. It will be difficult but we can try to close them down and try to cut out their speed.

More Info: Stade Rennes - FC Sochaux [Live Football]

Man Utd 2-1 Reading: Match report, photos and video features...

A target and a guide from the Portuguese winger in three destructive minutes last night after coming on as a sub booked United a quarter-final time with either Middlesbrough or Chelsea. Now Nani, 26, can only just hope this kick-starts his season and his Old Trafford profession. He could not have already been at a lowered ebb at the conclusion of a week ago. Omitted the group for the big one against Real Madrid last Wednesday, he was then shaken up back Manchester when his Bentley was struck by an police car on Friday. Last night he learned he was not even certainly one of seven improvements from the line-up in Madrid. And his potential is under threat with the summer appearance of A15million Wilfried Zaha. Nanias shows even before a damage robbed him of two months of the year was little and occasional to write home about. HUNTING CLEVER... Reading's Noel Hunt watches Ben Cleverley's hit His odds since his get back have been few. The problem with the winger since he came to Old Trafford is that he's been consistently inconsistent. He can be brilliant one day but you've to wait another month for him to be brilliant again. It absolutely was the latter last night. An ankle harm for Phil Jones opened the entranceway for him to enter the arena after 42 minutes and within two more he woke a slumbering Old Trafford. First he rocked the post with a wonderful volley from the edge of the box. He then had yet another pop from 18 yards, now forcing Adam Federici in to a finger stop. WALL OF THREE... Reading people put themselves facing Javier Hernandez's shot His operator on 69 minutes showed what a deft touch and execution he possesses on his time. Antonio Valencia presented the cross, Nani got one contact with his left foot to kill the ball then shot home reduced with his right past Federici into the far corner. He celebrated by pointing to the name on the trunk of his clothing to remind everybody else who'd scored it. The same base that produced the goal provided some great balls into the field and in the 72nd minute a whipped cross into the near post discovered Javier Hernandez who looked house a header. It absolutely was the little Mexicanas 15th goal of the summer season. Times like these make you wonder why the club are stalling on offering Nani a new deal, together with his present one up at the conclusion of next season. MAYBE not PHIL-ING GREAT... United opponent Phil Jones is helped down the pitch with an injury The problem is he can frustrate a lot more than he delights and his decision-making can leave the coaching staff exasperated. Nani can disappear from games and he is at night point of being possible. Perhaps along with his first goal since Halloween his current dreams will be around, but nobody will be holding their breath. His support for the 2nd purpose must have finished this game off but United got a late scare. Reading made a nervy ending to it when Jobi McAnuff seized on a loose ball, after Chris Smalling didn't clear, and poked home in the 81st second. PLANNING FOR TARGET... Javier Hernandez ratings United's 2nd The fans chanted for aFergie timea and got four minutes of it, by which they'd a free-kick and place that saw the ball pinging about the package. The last whistle produced silent cheers of relief significantly more than other things. United boss Alex Ferguson had spent most of the second-half in his specialized area a' an indication he was worried. His part were heading for an initial goalless lure 101 games but a replay was some thing he truly did not need. At one point he actually signalled for the ball boys to be briefed to get the ball back quicker. CHEST THE COMPANY... His goal is celebrated by javier Hernandez with Anderson Fergie named on Robin van Persie midway through the second-half to pep things up a' which he duly did. By the end he was going at his watch and rarely do you hear the home crowd racing to promote the umpire to end it. John McDermott had built six improvements to his Reading side from their defeat at Stoke with a six-pointer against Wigan coming through to Saturday. But a real fight is put up by them, as they have lately, to really worry United. While they're now left with a fight to remain up United continue steadily to experience a wave. The Treble continues to be on the horizon. Another step towards it's been taken.

More Info: Berwick Rangers - Rangers FC [Live Football]

(Video) Metalist 0-1 Newcastle United: Europa League Highlights ...

Newcastle thanked Shola Ameobi's third European goal of the season, a penalty, for a 1-0 win at Metalist Kharkiv, the Ukrainians who held the Magpies to a goalless stalemate on Tyneside last week.

Newcastle were under the cosh for much of the match and Dutch keeper Tim Krul made several top drawer saves, before Ameobi struck on 64 minutes for a crucial away goal after keeper Olexandr Goryainov upended Moussa Sissoko.

Via: Podbeskidzie - Jagiellonia Bialystok [Live Football]

AC Milan stuns FC Barcelona 2-0 in Champions Category - San...

AC Milan's Kevin-Prince Boateng honors after scoring during the Champions League round of 16, first leg football match against FC Barcelona at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2013. (AP Photo/Felice Calabro ') Kevin-Prince Boateng gave the cause to Milan in questionable situations in the 57th moment. Cristian Zapata seemed to manage Riccardo Montolivo's help in the accumulation. Barcelona players protested but to no avail and Gerard Pique was booked along the way. Sulley Muntari sealed the win nine minutes from time with a well-worked goal. It was a deserved gain for Milan, which covered Barcelona's efficient strike remarkably, letting it just two shots on target all match. The effect caps a wonderful transformation of fortunes for Milan. Massimiliano Allegri's side began the growing season dreadfully and was 15th in the Italian group after seven games. It's now third.

Collection compared to. Bayern Munich, 2013 UEFA Champions League...

Update: Bayern down Arsenal, 3-1 Arsenal have been put by a terrible start right into a huge gap, and they are planning to have to put together a fantastic 2nd half performance to repair this Champions League wrap. Bayern Munich never looked just like conceding following the opening minutes, hit early, then piled on the misery to transport a 2-0 lead to the halftime break. Strategy got down to the brighter start of the two groups, creating a handful of half-chances in the first five minutes. Jack Wilshere started both movements with great balls out extensive, but a Santi Cazorla combination in the moment was stated by Manuel Neuer, while the same move through Walcott produced a large part that Arsenal were unable to make any such thing out of. In the minute, Toni Kroos hit from 20 yards out to provide Bayern the lead. A low mix from Franck Ribery to the very best of the penalty area wasn't picked up by anybody, as Mikel Arteta failed to track Kroos and Per Mertesacker failed to step up. With no one shutting him down, Kroos took a grab and put a brilliant shot into the back of the web to step a big away goal. Things got worse for Arsenal in the 21st minute. Set bit defending has been a concern for Arsenal all time, and they looked awful in conceding their second. Daniel van Buyten was easy as he rose around head on target at the post, and Wojciech SzczAsny made a save your self. Nobody was watching Thomas MAller, however, and the Bayern opponent poked in the rebound. Both parties had reliable spells of control for the others of the half, with Arsenal having more of the ball, but Bayern supported off following their second goal and appeared content to play a more defensive game. Prior to the end of the half, they struck on a counter and a close-range header was missed by Mario MandAukiA by inches, failing woefully to capitalize on a chance that could have all but ended this link. Collection are going to need some thing special to have back this, and they are going to need to prevent conceding again as well. Follow @SBNationSoccer on Facebook

Like SB Country Football on Facebook For more on both teams, head to Arsenal blog The Short Fuse and Bayern Munich blog Bavarian Football Works.

Manchester United Leader David Gill to move down in August...

David Gill has reported he will move down from his role as Chief Executive of Manchester United in June. Manchester United's Chief Executive, David Gill, has reported that he is likely to be resigning in summer time in favour of his substitute, Ed Woodward. Gill joined Manchester United in 1987 and has been their Leader since 2003. One of the men who was simply involved in the transition during the questionable Glazer takeover, Gill has seen United's money increase greatly but in addition come in for heavy criticism from the lovers after returning on previous warnings against increasing debts, as United proceed to pay off loans dating to the takeover. United declared David Gill's resignation on their official website, with manager Sir Alex Ferguson noting: "I have been at United for more than 26 years and for 23 of the years my boss has been one of only two men: Martin Edwards, who brought me to the club, and David Gill. I've enjoyed working together with both." Though moving down from his position, Gill will be remaining on the United board, and will be seeking election to UEFA's Executive Committee.

Real Madrid 1 - Manchester United

It's advantage Manchester United at half-time in this captivating Champions League tie with Real Madrid after the Reds scored a priceless away goal at the Bernabeu.

Danny Welbeck netted with a great header from Wayne Rooney's left-wing corner to give Sir Alex Ferguson's men a dream start, and although former team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo equalised for the Spanish giants, this was still a job very well done for the visitors under extreme pressure.

Welbeck's inclusion was perhaps Sir Alex's surprise card given Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney also started, with Shinji Kagawa in the mix as well. Phil Jones and Michael Carrick screened the back four in which Jonny Evans was given the nod over Nemanja Vidic alongside Rio Ferdinand.

Many wondered whether Real would go at United from the off. The answer was a resounding yes. After Sami Khedira dragged a shot wide on two minutes, Angel Di Maria escaped the attentions of Patrice Evra and flashed a 20-yard effort just wide of David De Gea's right-hand post.

The Spanish stopper was the hero soon afterwards with a superb fingertip save as he turned Fabio Coentrao's curling drive onto the post after good work by Ronaldo down the left. Raphael Varane then headed over from a free-kick before Mesut Ozil was allowed to run clear to the edge of the area. Michael Carrick came to the rescue with a fantastic

More Info: River Plate - silver [Live Football] students