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Spanyol-Rusia 3:0








Another stormy night in Vienna saw Spain outclass Russia and set up a final with Germany. Goals from Xavi, Guiza and Silva were enough to see off Gus Hiddink’s men who were outplayed by a vibrant Spanish side, who also lost top scorer David Villa to injury in the first half.

An engaging first half ended goalless although both sides had their chances. Spain started the game marginally the quicker of the two sides, Xavi bending in an early cross which Sergio Ramos just failed to connect with and Villa and Torres combining well moments later, but Torres, after swivelling past his marker, could only manage a weak shot at goal.

The Russians slowly grew into the game and with the much vaunted Arshavin being well marshalled by the Spanish defence it was fellow striker Pavlyuchenko who had the best chances for Gus Hiddink’s side.

A free kick from fully 40 yards which flew inches over was his first warning, quickly followed by a speculative shot from range which he tried to bend past Casillas. His shot may have been going wide but the Real Madrid goalkeeper was taking no chances and managed to tip it around the post.

After losing their group game to the Spaniards 4-1, the Russians were clearly growing in confidence as the match progressed and just after the half hour mark they had even more reason to be happy.

David Villa, the tournament’s top scorer and the man who had hit a hat trick when the two sides had met earlier in the tournament was taken off injured. However, Russian joy was surely short lived as his replacement Cesc Fabregas had also scored against the Russians.

The change interrupted Spain’s rhythmn momentarily and Russia continued to pose a threat. Pavlyuchenko, again having the best chances, heading wide from an Anyukov cross before missing the target again with another shot, after chesting down a long ball inside the box.

As the half drew to a close Spain came back into the game, their slick passing once again in evidence and Torres taking advantage of Zhirkov’s forward runs and causing a problem down the right. However, neither side could make the crucial breakthrough and they headed for the interval level.

The deadlock didn’t last long and within five minutes of the restart Spain were ahead, their Barcelona midfielders combining to deadly effect. Some great work from Iniesta on the left saw him eventually put the ball into the box where Xavi, making a great run, was on hand to poke the ball home to give the Spanish the lead.

The goal galvanised Spain and they threatened to take an unshakeable hold on the game. Gus Hiddink responded with a double substitution throwing on Bilyaletidinov and Sychev but the Russians were left chasing shadows as the Spanish began to zip the ball around with confidence and completely dominate possession.

With Villa watching miserably from the sidelines the chances fell to Fernando Torres. Twice in a matter of minutes, on the hour mark, he had the opportunity to double Spain’s lead but his shooting was wayward and the Russians survived.

They were to prove his last chances, Luis Aragones choosing to replace Xavi and Torres with Alonso and Güiza. The strength in depth of Spain’s squad clearly in evidence and the substitutes combined well to double Spain’s lead with a little under twenty minutes to go.

Sergio Ramos again breaking down the right played the ball into Fabregas whose dinked ball over the top found Güiza running in on goal. A delightful finish by the substitute made it two nil and gave the Spanish some breathing space.

With a two goal lead the Spanish were now completely dominant, their short, slick passing game simply too much for the Russians. With ten minutes to go, they made it three to give the match the scoreline their superior football deserved.

Iniesta was again involved, setting Fàbregas free on the left. The young Arsenal man, who must have been wondering if he had done enough to find himself in the starting line up for Sunday’s final, found Silva in the box with a perfect pass and the Valencia man finished well past Akinfeev to put the gloss on a wonderful night for Spain.

Although the Russians couldn’t live with Spain defeat holds little shame for Hiddink’s men who have illuminated this tournament and surprised many by reaching the semi final. Arshavin and Pavlyuchenko, in particular, have produced some memorable moments and Hiddink’s already fearsome reputation, can only have been enhanced further.

Spain, meanwhile, must now go into Sunday’s final against Germany full of confidence. The quality of their football and the strength in depth of their squad is without question, although even then Villa's presumed absence from the final will be a hard knock to take.

After so much disappointment the question is now, could this finally be their year? With footballers of the quality of Villa, Torres, Iniesta, Xavi and Fabregas they have no reason to fear any side. However, whilst Germany have largely been unconvincing so far it would be dangerous to write them off; Sunday’s final promises much.

GOALS:
0-3 Spain (Silva, 81)
0-2 Spain (Guiza, 72)
0-1 Spain (Xavi, 49)

Russia: Akinfeev, Anyukov, Berezutski, Ignashevich, Zhirkov, Zyryanov, Semak, Semshov (Bilyaletidinov, 55), Saenko (Sychev, 56), Arshavin, Pavlyuchenko

Spain: Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Puyol, Marchena, Capdevila, Senna, Iniesta, Xavi (Alonso, 68), Silva, David Villa (Fàbregas, 34), Torres (Güiza, 68)

Gill Clark


sigombak


Football legend Paolo Maldini has reached yet another landmark, as the AC Milan symbol celebrates his 40th birthday today.
Maldini made his debut for Milan way back in January 1985, however almost a quarter-of-a-century later he is still going strong.

During his entire club career with the Rossoneri he has won seven Scudetti, one Coppa Italia, five Italian Super Cups, five Champions League titles, five European Super Cups and three World Club Cups.

He is both Milan and Italy’s all-time appearance maker, and is regarded by some as the best defender in the history of the game.

“Birthday wishes from the hearts of everyone at the club,” reads a statement on Milan’s official website.

“After a 23-year career and 1009 official games in the League, Cup and for his nation, Maldini decided to stay for another season.

“That choice brought such joy to all the fans, who woke up this morning thinking about him on his birthday.”

Maldini was due to retire from football this summer. However some brilliant performances last season from the defender saw have a change of heart, and he recently signed a one year extension until 2009.

From everyone at Goal.com



sigombak




The saga surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo has taken yet another twist after he reportedly phoned Manchester United to inform he will return for pre-season training…

According to The Sun, the Portuguese superstar has given his word that he will be at Carrington on July 10 as scheduled, thus putting paid to claims he will be leaving United within the next few weeks.

It is the first time this month that the 23-year-old has made contact with the Red Devils, having snubbed the club’s attempts to reach him while he was at EURO 2008 with Portugal.

It was reported the two-time PFA Player of the Year refused to answer Sir Alex Ferguson’s calls amid the chaos surrounding his possible ₤70million move to Real Madrid.

Ferguson responded in kind after the former Sporting Lisbon sensation revealed his desire to make the switch, refusing to break off his summer holiday and thus meaning negotiations could not commence.

Ronaldo has since scrapped his plans to return to Manchester this week for an assessment of his injured foot, instead opting to take a holiday himself.

The Seleccao winger may be eager to kill two birds with one stone when he arrives in the North-West next month, perhaps hoping to have his foot sorted out immediately before discussing his future with Ferguson – who returns to work on July 1 – or vice versa.

Mike Maguire



sigombak



Ronaldinho's brother and agent, Roberto de Assis, has told Setanta that while Manchester City are leading the race for the Barcelona forward, there are currently no new developments...

AC Milan's interest in the striker is long-standing, but De Assis admits that at this stage it could be a lost cause.

But with Manchester City having confirmed Mark Hughes as manager, moneyman Thaksin Shinawatra may work towards a move for Ronnie shortly.

“They [City] have been one of the most interested clubs and I attended meetings with them,” De Assis said.

“But my brother’s transfer is far from easy because they have to agree with many parts and we are looking for the best sport option for him.

“The best options are in England and Italy but we cannot close any door.

“There has not been any important news about Ronaldinho’s future in the last few days.

“We are in touch with clubs and Barcelona are aware of it, but negotiations are stalling.”

'Dinho is set for a quiet summer in Porto Alegre as he recovers from his injury.




sigombak


Contrary to earlier reports that Valencia valued their star David Villa at €40 million, the Daily Mail reports that he could leave the club for as little as £17 million...

The Spanish international is being watched by Real Madrid, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, with Arsenal - a club he singled out for praise last month - also outside contenders for his signature.

Despite winning the Copa del Rey this season, Valencia are in complete disarray following their group stage elimination from the Champions League and near-relegation in La Liga and will have to sell at least one of their big name stars in order to stay afloat and indeed rebuild for the future.

The striker has insisted that he will not decide on his future until after Euro 2008, and should this prove to be the case, a good campaign may well see £17 million rise to much more, though it is highly unlikely Valencia will get anything in the region of the €40 million they are hopeful of netting for the ex-Real Zaragoza man.

Real Madrid are thought to be at the head of the queue for the 26-year-old, with Chelsea close behind and Tottenham perhaps slightly out of their financial weight class.

Fernando Montabon, Goal.com




Reports from the continent claim Roma are preparing to pounce for Liverpool defender John Arne Riise...

Stampa Articolo Invia ad un amico Contatta la redazione galleria zoom The Norwegian left-back is uncertain of his future at Anfield, having fallen out of favour with manager Rafa Benitez over the last two seasons.

With Fabio Aurelio establishing himself as the Reds first choice on the left side of defence, and Andreas Dossena on the verge of joining from Udinese, Riise could well be shown the door this summer.

Many believe the 26-year-old’s fate was sealed during the Champions League semi-final against Chelsea, when he headed into his own net in the first leg and was at fault for Didier Drogba’s winner in the second leg.

Aston Villa and Newcastle have expressed interest in the former Monaco man, but sources in Italy suggest Roma could nip in with a ₤5million bid.

Giallorossi boss Luciano Spalletti is keen strengthen his defensive options ahead of next season, having identified both full-back slots as the team's major weakness.

Mike Maguire





Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo has further fuelled rumours of his possible departure, reportedly telling his friends and family he will leave the club after next season.

The Portuguese superstar has been heavily linked with move to Real Madrid, who have been hounding for his signature over the last few months.

The 23-year-old is yet to dismiss the possibility of a switch to the Santiago Bernabeu, although United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is confident the incumbent PFA Player of the Year will remain at Old Trafford.

But according to The Sun, the former Sporting Lisbon sensation and his agent Jorge Mendes are planning an exit strategy that would take effect next summer.

Ronaldo reportedly told his nearest and dearest: “If I don’t leave Manchester United now, I certainly will in a year.”

Mike Maguire



Lampard Move To Inter?

Will move Frank Lampard Issues from Chelsea to Inter Milan along the former its coach ( JOSE MOURINHO) train the this klub serie A generate a number of all question mark instruct at past experience of English player acting in italian Serie A.

Whether Mr. Lampard which so shine in League Premier will can also like that in Italian League.
From first, English player Seldom be successful when strengthening one of team in Italian League.

Just Mention, David Platt with Sampdoria, successful insufficient because seldom play at. Then there is Paul Gascoigne which is the more amount its problem when strengthening Lazio.

There also Paul Ince which is when entering direct Inter Milan take hold of the team captain, previous in MU also become the captain. Along time, occupation of captain Ince loosened and returned to Giuseppe Bergomi.

Whether Frank Lampard can show the prima appearance, as prima as when he is in Chelsea? Or " anathema" all English player which always fail to shine in Serie A also go into effect for he’s

Before that, move issues Lampard also we have to wait the in reality....


Newly appointed Internazionale boss Jose Mourinho has reportedly made Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard his top priority in the transfer market.

The Special One is almost certain to raid his old hunting ground at Stamford Bridge this summer as he seeks to stamp his mark on the Inter squad, and club president Massimo Moratti is expected to back his new manager to the hilt.

The charismatic Portuguese is expected to have around ₤100 million to work with between now and the end of August, but Moratti has claimed he does not expect wholesale changes.

“I have read lots of names but I have yet to speak with him [Mourinho] about the transfer market,” he said. “I would like to change very little of this squad which has won so much.”

Mega Buys

Such a statement suggests the Nerazzurri are in the market for a few choice mega-buys, a modus operandi Mourinho is more than familiar with following his tenure under Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich.

One of those Blues buys was Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien, for whom the former Porto boss was recently reported to be lining up a ₤24 million bid.

The former Lyon star has established himself among the best box-to-box players in the world in recent seasons, and hence Chelsea will be loath to let one of their most consistent and dangerous performers leave.

Shift


With that move looking increasingly unfeasible, Mourinho has shifted his attention slightly further up the pitch to Lampard, with whom he has been constantly linked since departing west London in September.

The England international is yet to agree a new contract with the Blues, who have so far failed to meet his wage demands of over ₤130,000-per-week.

The 29-year-old has one year remaining on his current deal at Stamford Bridge, and with increased competition next season from resurgent German star Michael Ballack and upcoming Nigerian John Obi Mikel, a move to San Siro could prove too tempting for Lampard to refuse.

The former West Ham man could be just one among several Mourinho loyalists set to make the switch, with striker Didier Drogba and defender Ricardo Carvalho also reported to be seeking a Chelsea exit.

Mike Maguire

Mourinho Pledges Greatness


Jose Mourinho has given his first press conference as the new boss of Inter, and he has announced himself on the Italian scene by describing himself as a "great coach."

Mourinho was announced as the new coach of Inter yesterday afternoon, replacing three-time Scudetto winner Roberto Mancini, who was shown the exit door last week.

The Portuguese tactician announced himself as the new manager of Chelsea four years ago by describing himself as the 'Special One', and he appeared to have lost none of his supreme self confidence during his first press conference today as the new boss of Inter.

“I have arrived at a special club. I think I am a great Coach but I don’t want to be special," he stated.

“I am always myself and I don’t change. I am the same person as I ever was and I have that same mission and passion for my work.

“I have always thought that I would like to work in Italy and for a big club and I want to thank Massimo Moratti and Marco Branca for giving me this opportunity.

“This is a very important challenge for me, but I think that it will also be very enjoyable for you.”

The 45-year-old Mourinho has a stunning managerial record despite his young age, having won two Portuguese championships, a Portuguese Cup, a UEFA Cup and Champions League with Porto, as well as two Premier Leagues, an FA Cup and two league cups among his honours at Chelsea.

Luca Capofranco



The club are still in the process of finding a replacement for manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, who they parted company with yesterday, although Blackburn Rovers coach Mark Hughes is expected to be confirmed in the Eastlands dug-out within the next 48 hours.

City slicker: but could Brazilian playmaker Ronaldinho really be turning out at Eastlands?

However, the managerial vacuum at the club has not stopped owner Thaksin Shinawatra from pressing forward with his plans to lure the former two-time Fifa World Player of the Year to the City of Manchester stadium for the start of next season, regardless of who will be in charge at the club.

Sources close to Thaksin say that members of City's Thai board are due to fly out to the player's home city of Porto Alegre in Brazil to meet with him face to face this weekend.

Should the club also manage to the secure the services of CSKA Moscow's £20 million-rated Brazilian forward Jo, then whoever does eventually take charge at Eastlands could have an explosive all-Brazilian front line at his disposal to kick off the new Premier League season.

In recent months Ronaldinho, 28, has reportedly had a tour of the City of Manchester stadium and it's facilities, while his brother and agent Roberto De Assis has also held a series of meetings with Thaksin's right-hand man, Pairoj Piempongsant, to discuss the potential transfer.

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Meanwhile, talks have been held with the Brazil international's main sponsors Nike, as well as with other potential investors who would help fund the player's massive wage demands, with Ronaldindo said to want £200,000 per week, a wage that would make him the world's highest-paid footballer.

By Richard Morgan

Football



Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced Cristiano Ronaldo will be at Manchester United next season, despite the predatory advances of Real Madrid…


The Portuguese winger is yet to commit his future to United following a landmark season, in which he scored an incredible 42 goals while collecting winner’s medals for the Premier League and Champions League.

Los Merengues have relentlessly and publicly pursued the 23-year-old over the past month or so, much to the chagrin of everyone at Old Trafford.

But Ferguson is used to Madrid’s media mind-games, and is confident that Ronaldo will stay with the Red Devils for many years to come.

“I’m very confident about that,” said Ferguson. “It’s a game Real play all the time.

“In the past they’ve done it with David Beckham, they’ve done it with Van Nistelrooy, they’ve done it with my fitness coach last summer — so we’re used to it.

“I am more than confident Cristiano will be with us next year. The Glazer family will not be messed about in this situation.

“We want Cristiano to stay for a long, long time. He is on a fantastic contract and quite rightly so — he’s the best player in the world.”

Mike Maguire


In perhaps one of the most ironic twists in this dramatic transfer saga, former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder David Beckham has urged Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at United despite overtures from the Spanish capital...

Beckham, now of Major League Soccer outfit LA Galaxy, moved from Manchester United to Madrid in 2003 after something of a falling out between he and manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Ronaldo was bought from Sporting Lisbon that same summer and given Beckham's number seven - formerly belonging to King Eric Cantona and a host of other United legends.

While Beckham could not emulate his United success with los Merengues, Ronaldo has, after a few years of bedding in, grown to be one of if not the best player in the world, sealing that status with a goal in United's Champions League win last month in Moscow, as part of a double with the club's second successive Premier League.

Beckham has urged Ronaldo to stay with the Red Devils insisting that, unlike himself, the Portuguese is still very much at the beginning of his United career, despite having been there for five years.

"I believe he's at the right club and a club he should stay at because as much as Real Madrid are a great team and one of the biggest clubs in the world, he's only just starting at Manchester United," explained Beckham.

"He's only been there a few years. He's got a lot of people around him who will protect him. As a fan of Manchester United I hope he stays there but who knows?

"It's none of my business. All I'm going to say to him is congratulations on an amazing season. I'm sure he'll be crowned world player of the year and he deserves it."

Brian O'Ryan, Goal.com



Footbal News-Newly appointed Internazionale boss Jose Mourinho has reportedly made Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard his top priority in the transfer market…

The Special One is almost certain to raid his old hunting ground at Stamford Bridge this summer as he seeks to stamp his mark on the Inter squad, and club president Massimo Moratti is expected to back his new manager to the hilt.

The charismatic Portuguese is expected to have around ₤100 million to work with between now and the end of August, but Moratti has claimed he does not expect wholesale changes.

“I have read lots of names but I have yet to speak with him [Mourinho] about the transfer market,” he said. “I would like to change very little of this squad which has won so much.”

Mega Buys

Such a statement suggests the Nerazzurri are in the market for a few choice mega-buys, a modus operandi Mourinho is more than familiar with following his tenure under Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich.

One of those Blues buys was Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien, for whom the former Porto boss was recently reported to be lining up a ₤24 million bid.

The former Lyon star has established himself among the best box-to-box players in the world in recent seasons, and hence Chelsea will be loath to let one of their most consistent and dangerous performers leave.

Shift

With that move looking increasingly unfeasible, Mourinho has shifted his attention slightly further up the pitch to Lampard, with whom he has been constantly linked since departing west London in September.

The England international is yet to agree a new contract with the Blues, who have so far failed to meet his wage demands of over ₤130,000-per-week.

The 29-year-old has one year remaining on his current deal at Stamford Bridge, and with increased competition next season from resurgent German star Michael Ballack and upcoming Nigerian John Obi Mikel, a move to San Siro could prove too tempting for Lampard to refuse.

The former West Ham man could be just one among several Mourinho loyalists set to make the switch, with striker Didier Drogba and defender Ricardo Carvalho also reported to be seeking a Chelsea exit.

Mike Maguire





Chelsea have offered Frank Lampard a new £130,000 a week contract in a desperate bid to prevent the England midfielder from leaving.


The deal would put Lampard, who has one year on his current contract left to run, on the same salary as John Terry, the Chelsea captain.


According to the Daily Mirror, Lampard has stalled on signing a new contract for the past two years and is said to be considering a move to Inter Milan, who are expected to announce former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho as their new coach this week. Lampard, who is on holiday in Dubai where he is considering his options, had a close relationship with Mourinho and played a key role in the Portuguese's Chelsea team that won back-to-back Premier League titles.

However, Lampard was deeply touched by the support Chelsea gave him when his mother died recently, and that could prove a factor in his decision over his future. Another issue that could sway Lampard's mind is Chelsea's choice of manager following the sacking of Avram Grant, with Portugal coach Luis Felipe Scolari and Dutchman Frank Rijkaard now said to be the frontrunners for the job.
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The Daily Express quotes a Chelsea source as saying: "Frank is tempted by the prospect of joining up with Jose again. They still have a really close relationship and Frank regards the period when he worked with Jose as the best time of his career. He still has a great affection for Chelsea, but he feels the time may now be right to move on.

"It is a massive decision. Frank feels indebted to the club for the way they supported him after the death of his mother."

By Telegraph staff
Last Updated: 8:46am BST 02/06/2008



Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is preparing a £20 million bid for Lyon striker Karim Benzema as he looks to secure the youngster's signature before the start of Euro 2008.

Print This Story Send To A Friend Contact Us galleria zoom The likes of Chelsea, Barcelona and Real Madrid have all been linked with the 20-year old, who is one of Europe’s most promising youngsters after again impressing this campaign, firing twenty goals as Lyon claimed their seventh consecutive league title.

Ferguson, who has become increasingly frustrated with Louis Saha’s injury problems this season, is now set to move for Benzema within the next week to avoid having to pay more should the youngster impress for France this summer.

If The Red Devils fail in their bid to land the player already dubbed a new Bleus legend in France, Ferguson has a shortlist of forward candidates which includes Tottenham Hotspur’s majestic striker Dimitar Berbatov, Sevilla’s Fabiano and West Ham United’s Dean Ashton.

The 66-year old has been handed a hefty transfer budget by the club’s owner Malcolm Glazer, an amount that could be made all the larger should Cristiano Ronaldo opt to leave Old Trafford for Real Madrid within the next three days.

William Wood





AC Milan have signed Italy international defender Gianluca Zambrotta from Barcelona, the Serie A club announced on Sunday.

Zambrotta has been a long-term target for former European champions AC Milan.

Milan did not release financial details, but Gazzetta dello Sport reported that the former European champions paid $14 million for Zambrotta and will pay another $3.1 million if they finish in the top three in Serie A next season.

Milan finished fifth in Serie A and had to settle for a UEFA Cup place -- and lost in the first round of the knockout stages to Arsenal in their unsuccessful defense of the Champions League last season.

Zambrotta, 31, joined Barcelona from Juventus after Italy's 2006 World Cup triumph. He had spent seven-years at Juve who were relegated for their part in a match fixing scandal.

The defender is key member of the Italy team that will play in the European Championship this month in Switzerland and Austria and has been a target for Milan for some time.

Milan needed a defender after Brazilian fullbacks Cafu and Serginho left at the end of the campaign while veteran Paolo Maldini is also yet to sign a new deal for what will be his final season.

Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini was Milan's first signing for next season and several more deals are expected this summer.(CNN) --




Football mathematics like bowled over at 2004, when Greece come up as Europe champion, because since 1960 newly once go forward to quarterfinal rotation ( 2000), but four year later;then surprising when coming up as champion in Portugal.

Nowadays Greece come up again. In rotation of final of Grup D with Swedia, Russia And Spanyol [of] [at] 12-15-19 June. All contest performed will play at Stadium of Waltz Slezenheim, Austrian.

Otto Rehhagel team the achievement spektakuler at semi final, because from 12 contest start the end 2006 till 21 November 2007, for once fail and break even once.

At that semi final, by surprising Turky defeat the Greece 4-1 and Norwegian arrest; detain the them 2-2. From that 12 exclusion fight, Goal Greece 25 times and entrance 10 goal. As comparison, at exclusion Euro 2004, Greece only print eight goal from eight contest.

But contest of warm-up of last contest Hungaria 24 May, Greek swallow the bitter pill after failing 2-3 and Rehhagel hope that matter become the Iesson worth to all player. That drubbing represent first since August last year

In that tryout, brittle Greek defender very, so that gate which taken care of Antonis Nikolopolidis goal thrice only in range of time 16 minute

In that contest, Rahhagel enough worry, because two reliable player, Nikopolidis And Angelos Basinas experience of to injure, even they is reckoned will descend at contest 12 June of versus Sweden.

Greece Skuads for the rotation of final Euro 2008

Goalkeeper: 1-Antonis Nikopolidis ( Olympiakos Piraeus), 12-Costas Chalkias ( Aris Salonika), 13-Alexandros Tzorvas ( OFI Crete)

Stopper: 2-Giourkas Seitaridis ( Atletico Madrid), 3-Christos Patsatzoglou ( Olympiakos), 4-Nikos Spyropoulos ( Panathinaikos), 5-Traianos Dellas ( AEK Athens), 11-Loukas Vintra ( Panathinaikos), 15-Vassilis Torosidis ( Olympiakos), 16-Sotiris Kyrgiakos ( Eintracht Frankfurt), 18-Yannis Goumas ( Panathinaikos), 19-Paraskevas Antzas ( Olympiakos)

Middle Player: 6-Angelos Basinas ( Real Mallorca), 8-Stelios Giannakopoulos ( Bolton Wanderers), 10-Georgios Karagounis ( Panathinaikos), 21-Costas Katsouranis ( Benfica), 22-Alexandros Tziolis (Panathinaikos)

Forward: 7-Giorgos Samaras ( Celtic), 9-Angelos Haristeas ( Nuremberg), 14-Dimitris Salpigidis ( Panathinaikos), 17-Fanis Gekas ( Bayer Leverkusen), 20-Yiannis Amanatidis ( Eintracht Frankfurt), 23-Nikos Liberopoulos ( AEK).



Inter Milan striker Adriano said after the game that he was really happy to have returned to the Brazilian national squad...

The powerful striker, who returned to Seleção after an absence of almost 18 months from international football, played during the second-half of Brazil's 3-2 friendly win over Canada.

Although Adriano did not score in his return, he had a good chance on goal and even played Alexandre Pato through with a superb pass in what was a fairly good display from the former Parma player.

The 26-year-old said that playing again for Brazil will be very important to his recovery process, adding that he will continue working to be a regular call-up.

"It is very important to defend the Brazilian squad again," he said after the game. "It is good to be back, but this is a long road, I have to work really hard to get a place in the team."

Adriano, who is currently on loan at São Paulo, will return to Inter Milan at the end of the season although he does not know whether incoming coach, José Mourinho, is including him in his first-team plans.

Luís Mira



Milan have finally captured Barcelona defender Gianluca Zambrotta after reaching a deal with the Blaugrana on Saturday night.

The club have announced the news following months of speculation linking the player with a move back to Italy.

Zambrotta is believed to have arrived on a three year deal from the Camp Nou side and reports in Italy claim Milan paid €8.5m for him. He will earn around €4m per season.

A statement on the club’s official website reads:

“It’s now official. Gianluca Zambrotta is now a Milan player.

“The defender is about to play in the European Championship with Italy and he leaves Barcelona to strengthen the Milan defence.”

Only hours ago, Galliani hinted that his side needed someone like Zambro and his wish has been granted. Zambrotta has always stated his desire to play for the Rossoneri in the past and he has given up Champions League football next season in order to return to Italy.

He will now be looking to partner former Azzurri team mate Alessandro Nesta in defence.

The Rossoneri have, so far, strengthened their midfield and their defence. All they need now is a goalkeeper and a decent striker.

Salvatore Landolina



Manchester United hot-shot Cristiano Ronaldo has stated that the final decision over his future will be announced by Tuesday...

The Portuguese ace has been tipped for a move to Real Madrid, with Manchester United apparently unwilling to off-load their star, who scored 42 goals in all competitions this season, despite big-money approaches from the Spanish club.

And Ronaldo, who is reported to be interested in a move to Santiago Bernabéu, has ensured that his future will be decided next week.

"Let's see, I hope there will be news soon. In two or three days I will announce my decision," he said after the game against Georgia.

On Portugal's display against Georgia, Ronaldo, who played during the first-half, said that he was happy with the 2-0 win and with his own level of play.

"I felt fine in the game, from now on I only have to make maintenance. I have realized that my level won't drop, just like it won't raise.

"I will be in good form in Euro, and I really want to make a good tournament," he added.

Luís Mira


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