Chelsea Transfer News: Juan Cuadrado deal seems imminent for the Blues!

Soccer News:

Maybe they are sitting at top in the English Premier League, in the Semi Final of Capital One Cup and in the pre quarters of UEFA Champions League, but that didn’t stop Chelsea FC to continue purchasing new players in order to make their squad even stronger. It was this month last year when Jose Mourinho grabbed Salah under the noses of Liverpool FC, but after just 12 months, it seems that the time of the Egyptian is all but up at the Stamford Bridge.

Another player who seems likely to leave the blues in this transfer Window is German International Schurrle. Due to lack of playing time, he was frustrated under Mourinho and now a move back to Germany seems on the cards for Andre Schurrle.

So after making enough room for a new player, Jose Mourinho now sets sight on the Columbian World Cup Star. Juan Cuadrado, who was a key part of Columbia’s success in the Mega Event is on the Chelsea’s radar for a long time now. And after days of linking him with a move to Stamford Bridge, the Fiorentina Midfielder is likely to join Chelsea FC in the coming hours.

Cuadrado, who has 4 goals and 4 assits in 17 apps this season, will cost Chelsea FC 26 Million Pounds if reports coming out from various media outlets are believed to be true. But looking at his versatility in playing and ability to score goals, Cuadrado certainly worth such a price tag. But if/when Chelsea acquire his services, Cuadrado have to fight for his spot in the starting XI.

by ScoresPro.com

Chelsea Transfer News: Juan Cuadrado deal seems imminent for the Blues!

Barclays Premier League: Chelsea 1-1 Manchester City: 3 things we learnt

English Premier League News:

Manchester City no further behind, Chelsea no further above as a stalemate at Stamford Bridge kept both of the Premier League powerhouses in check. While this fixture was the last kicked-off in the Premier League on Saturday, it certainly had enough ammunition in its ranks to overshadow the others, however, as evident from the scoreline, it was more a battle of tactics than that of nerves.

Here are 3 things that we learned: –

Mourinho got what he wished for

No Diego Costa, No Cesc Fabregas and seeing your Ex- Lampard in a Chelsea shirt? Chelsea fans would have sensed something wrong before the match, however, give credit to their Portuguese Maestro who driven the match where he wanted: to a stalemate.

Looking at his policy over the years and contemplating it with this one, Mourinho would rather see his team win 1-0 than a thrilling last-minute winner to grab a late win. Thus, no matter how the opposition turns up against him, Mourinho had a plan today and his boys delivered to it with much effort.

Sergio Aguero’s form: a source of concern for Manuel Pellegrini

Since scoring twice at the Stadium of Light on the start of December contributing to a 4-1 win for the reigning Champions, the Argentine has now failed to find the back of the net for 4 successive matches in a row.

Even though, Costa was absent today which meant that the Argentine might reduce his gap at the goal-scoring table with the Spaniard, John Terry and co. ensured to take full advantage of his lackluster form as Aguero again had to cut a sorry figure today.

And with the lead still at 5 points for Chelsea, Manuel Pellegrini would have to find a trick to get his main man firing against if Manchester City are to remain in the title race for long.

Kurt Zouma: A breath of fresh air for Chelsea

Playing in the Capital One Cup Semi Final is one thing, earning the confidence of your manager to start against the reigning Premier League Champions takes it to an even higher level as Kurt Zouma achieved both the feats in a matter of a week with Chelsea.

At just 20 years of age and having the pedigree to limit seasoned professionals like Gary Cahill to the bench with his performances, the product of Chelsea Academy is looking more like a long-term replacement of John Terry whose contract expires next summer.

Full time: Chelsea FC 1-1 Manchester City

Barclays Premier League: Chelsea 1-1 Manchester City: 3 things we learnt

Barclays Premier League: Liverpool 2-0 West Ham: 5 things we learnt

English Premier League Updates:

Coming into this match on the back of a defeat at Chelsea which eradicated them from their biggest chance of having a trophy season, Brendan Rodgers’ men needed a response to soothe the nerves of their fans. And after 90 minutes at Anfield today which proved more to be a moonwalk for the home side, Liverpool extended their unbeaten streak in the Premier League to 7 matches – much to the happiness of their fans.

Here are 5 things we learnt: –

Raheem Sterling has undergone a meteoric rise this season

A year or more from now when Raheem Sterling was in the starting lineup against Arsenal at Anfield – a match in which he got a brace, nobody would have thought that this emaciated Jamaica-born winger would bid to take the spot of Luis Suarez next season.

Although it wasn’t his choice nor was his desire to fulfil the void that was left by the departure of the Uruguayan, Raheem Sterling – by virtue of his manager – has grown from a part-time scorer to a match winner for the Reds and today was nothing dissimilar.

Simon Mignolet is in his best Liverpool form

Back in the mid of December when Mignolet was dropped from matches against Arsenal and Manchester United, many would have thought that it would take some doing for the former Sunderland man to get back in the starting 11.

However, give credit to the lady luck or something beyond the comprehension of the human mind, Simon Mignolet got a recall and has been a revelation since then. Even though Liverpool fans plowed their fashion in him last season and for the first part of this season, Mignolet has started to perform just when the support was waving from beneath his turf.

Although West Ham didn’t troubled the Belgian too much today, his timely saves catalyzed by his ability to punch the ball and collect it in his arms at specific intervals indicated the form the Belgian is enjoying at the moment. And if Liverpool want to continue their march for a Champions League spot this season, their man in front of goal would have to do more like the same.

Daniel Sturridge returned with a bang

Although most of the Liverpool fans would have prayed to see their darling in action today – no matter for how short – it seemed that they got a bonus from Daniel Sturridge when the Englishman notched the ball into the net to settle the game.

From the moment he stepped onto the pitch in place of Lazar Markovic to the last whistle of the game, Daniel Sturridge showed an extended trailer of the qualities he has possessed since joining the Liverpool ranks. And with Everton being Liverpool’s next barrier in their bid for a top 4 spot, the timing of the belated return of the Englishman couldn’t have been better.

Lucas Leiva is irreplaceable for Liverpool

Back to the mid of December when Liverpool were stunned by the Red Devils at Old Trafford with a 3-0 hiding, Brendan Rodgers decided to put his faith in the Brazilian and looking at the recent form of the latter, he has done justice to the choice which his manager made after learning a difficult lesson at the Old Trafford.

Has the bubble burst for West Ham?

Not long ago when West Ham were in the top 4 spot before Christmas, everybody was talking of one slip and as it seems now, Sam Allardyce’s men have fallen down under the burden of expectations that their fans weighed in them not so long ago.

Although they’re still 1 point behind Liverpool – which isn’t that bad if you consider their last season form – it is the slip the Hammers have envisaged since being in the top 4 a month from now.

And looking at their recent fixtures in which they host high-flying Manchester United next weekend before travelling to the Saint-Mary Stadium in a fortnight, the Hammers have to perform much better than today if they want to keep their bid of European football intact.

Full time: Liverpool 2-0 West Ham

Barclays Premier League: Liverpool 2-0 West Ham: 5 things we learnt

WHC News: Qatar in 2015 similar to South Korea in World Cup 2002

World Handball Championship – News:

It’s not a secret that referee like to favor home team. One of the biggest “favor” for home side was in soccer World Cup that held in Japan and Korea 2002. South Korea is outsider in world of soccer and on World Cup 2002 they were in Group D with United States, Portugal and Poland. They miracle won the Group D with two wins (Poland 2-0; Portugal 1-0) and one draw (United States 1-1). In eight-finals they beat Italy (World Cup winner 2006) 2-1 after extra times and in quarterfinals they kick out Spain 5-3 (World Cup winner 2010) after penalty shootout. Finally in Semifinals they were beaten by Germany (World Cup winner 2014) 1-0 and in match for 3^rd place they lost against Turkey 3-2.

Why are we talking about soccer? Well something similar is happening in Qatar now. Best rank for Qatar team in World Handball Championships was 16^th place, two years ago in Spain they took 20^th place from 24 contestants, and now that same Qatar is in finals and will battle against France for Championship gold.

After their semifinal win against Poland (31-29) there was a lot of talk about referee in Qatar games. Piotr Chrapkowski said that everyone sees what referee did and that this is a big shame for handball. Chrapkowski said that they (referee) should be suspended and banned from handball for life. Chrapkowski for end added that it’s impossible to beat Qatar and that the winner of this game was known before the game even started.

It’s not first time that fans (or players) are pointing fingers toward Qatar win. Qatar was in Group A and first surprise they made was in third round when they beat Slovenia 31-29, after the game internet was full of hatred toward Denmark referees Hansen and Gjeding. In fourth round Qatar lost against Spain but again it was a hard game in which Spain manage to get the victory in last quarter of the game. In last round of group stage Qatar beat Belarus with 26-22 after being behind 5 goals on the halftime and again after the game internet was calling Czech referees Novotny and Horacek saying that home side bought them. In quarterfinals Qatar beat Germany 26-24 and again Germany officials said that there was no way that Germany could beat Qatar in that game and again they suggest that Qatar might influence on the Macedonian referee couple.

In world of sports it’s not strange that one team is angry on referee after losing the game (after all we are all humans) but this is starting to be strange. Now you know why we talked about soccer World Cup in Japan and Korea. There is still a question in every Italian and Spain fans how did they manage to lose against South Korea? Similar question is probably in each Germany and Poland fan, how?

We don’t know what to expect in the final game between Qatar and France. France is handball giant in both club terms and national terms, but then again so were Slovenia, Germany and Poland. Smart people would say where there is a smoke there is a fire.

by ScoresPro.com

WHC News: Qatar in 2015 similar to South Korea in World Cup 2002

WHC Semifinals: Qatar and France battle for gold on Sunday

World Handball Championship – Semifinals:

Poland – Qatar 29 – 31 (13 -16)

Qatar is still living their dream in first semifinal game Qatar manage to beat Poland 31-29 and to go into the finals for the first time in history of World Handball Championships. This will be their fifth appearances in handball championship and so far their best rank was 16^th place in Portugal (2003).  Game start goal by goal, Poland manage to get first two goals lead in 9’ (6-4). Poland was holding the lead until the last 10 minutes of the first half and this is probably where they lost the game. In the last ten minutes Poland manage to score only 3 goals, while Qatar scored 6 and go on halftime break with 3 goals difference.  Second half start similar as first end, Poland scores the opening goal but in next six minutes Qatar quickly scored 3 goals and in 36’ they had big 5 goals lead. Poland answer with two quick goals from Jurecki and Jurkiewicz but Qatar answer with their two goals and the difference in 41’ was again +5. Until the end Poland raise the tempo and try to reduce Qatar lead but with Danijel Saric on the goal Qatar wasn’t punish for their mistakes in the attacks. In the last 4 minutes we saw some quick handball since in the last 4 minutes we saw 10 goals. At the end Qatar took the win and will face France in the final of World Handball Championship.

Spain – France 22 – 26 (14 – 18)

France manage to beat Spain and since 2011 and World Handball Championship in Sweden they will be in the battle for gold medal. For this game we can say only one thing – Thierry Omeyer! He was magnificent today, especial in last 10 minutes. He was at 48% saves today (20/42) and drives crazy Spain players. Spain better opens the game and took the lead, but France never let them to go on two goals lead. France took the lead in 7’ when Porte scored for 5-4, from that point France never drops the lead. Spain had a black period from 9’ to 13’, in those 4 minutes France scored 4 goals (Karabatic, Narcisse and 2 x Guigou) and go on +4 in 13’ (10-6). In 16’ France had the biggest lead in the game +5 (12-7). Until the halftime Spain manages only to reduce the goal difference to -4. Spain better open the second half with two goals by Ugalde to reduce lead on only -2, after Joli goal for France Aguinagalde and Canellas again scored two goals for Spain and in 37’ score was 19-18 for France.  In the next five minutes we didn’t see a goal and then in 43’ Sorhaindo and in 47’ Narcisse move France to 3 goals lead. Spain quickly replays with two quick goals and in 49’ it was again +1 for France. In last ten minutes only one player was on the field Thierry Omeyer. Omeyer gives the France chance to again move on +3 in 52’ and then he secure France victory with some spectacularly saves.

Final game of 24^th edition of World Handball Championship between Qatar and France is schedule to be played on 1 February at 16:15 GMT.

by ScoresPro.com

 

WHC Semifinals: Qatar and France battle for gold on Sunday

Bundesliga: Bayern Munchen gets crushed by Wolfsburg by 4:1

Soccer News:

The German champion Bayern Munchen suffered a devastating loss by 4:1 from Wolfsburg earlier today. The Bavarians just weren’t themselves and were just dominated from the home team, as Wolfsburg was able to maintain slim chances for snatching the title from Bayern. The difference between the team from Munchen and Wolfsburg is eight points at the moment, which is still quite a margin, but the interesting thing is that Guardiola’s players conceded four goals in a period of 90 minutes – the same amount amount they have conceded in the previous 17 meetings.

Bas Dost and Kevin de Bruyne scored two goals apiece, as they were the main figures for the Wolves in the blowout victory. For the Bavarians this was their first loss for the season and they also had an eleven point advantage over Wolfsburg, which is their only real rival when it comes to the Bundesliga title. If Bayern was able to win this match on “Volkswagen Arena” this would have meant that the title would be almost theirs. This defeat means that Guardiola’s players won’t be able to focus solely on the Champions League, as they will have to find a way to maintain their lead on top of the Bundesliga standings.

For Wolfsburg this was a sweet revenge, because the last time both team met on “Volkswagen Arena” the score was 1:6 in favor of Bayern. It should also be noted that Andre Schurrle, the news signing of the Wolves, wasn’t able to participat in the game – maybe the win would have been with an even larger margin if he had taken part in the contest.

Even though Bayern Munchen would probably go on to win the Bundesliga title, Wolfsburg deserve respect. They played with heart and pure motivation, with a type of football that just couldn’t be matched by Bayern.

Final Time:
Wolfsburg – Bayern Munchen: 4 – 1

By ScoresPro.com

Bundesliga: Bayern Munchen gets crushed by Wolfsburg by 4:1

NBA Rumors: Bulls may fire Tom Thibodeau at the end of the season

Basketball,NBA News:

Tom Thibodeau and the Chicago Bulls haven’t had the best of relationships throughout the years, however they have been trusting each other for the good of the franchise. This season things have been a bit different – Thibodeau and the Bulls haven’t really lived up to everybody’s expectations for them to be title contenders. Chicago’s front office hasn’t been happy from the way things are done in the team and if Thibodeau doesn’t bring a title at the end of the season it’s hard to see him remaining with the squad.

The amount of minutes that the best players are on the court is once again a big number and Thibs has once again received a lot of criticism for his full-throttle approach. Thibodeau has showed in the past couple of season that he has a habit of overplaying his starters – a tendency that more often than not leads to injuries. The Bulls office has been trying to change this, however they haven’t really had a lot of success. They’re not to blame – this type of approach has really led to a large amount of injuries to star players, the most notable being Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah.

Let’s just remember how in the last two full seasons Luol Deng led the league in minutes, how Derrick Rose has been watching from the bench in the previous two years and how Joakim Noah has suffered a wide variety of injuries. And it’s not only them – all of the seasons when Thibodeau has been coach of the Bulls, the roster has been plagued by injuries. Furthermore, if you take a look at Pau Gasol’s playing time you can see that he is averaging 35 minutes per game, which for a 34-year old are quite a big number. Yes, the Spaniard is an All-Star and has showed better form than his last three years with the Lakers, but the risk of his body braking down is not little.

It’s hard to believe that Tom Thibodeau will be fired right away, but if he doesn’t lead the Bulls at least to the Finals this season he will probably be sacked at the end of the year. There is very little hope that Thibs will change his way of thinking, so this may be the end of the relationship between the 2010-11 Coach of the Year and the Chicago Bulls.

By ScoresPro.com

NBA Rumors: Bulls may fire Tom Thibodeau at the end of the season

Chelsea vs Manchester City: Preview, Stats and Team news

EPL Match Preview:

A 5 point lead at the top of the Premier League table, a home fixture to decide their fate in the title race with a date in the Capital one Cup final awaiting their arrival, Chelsea would be as confident as ever to wrap up the title race on Saturday evening at the Stamford Bridge.

Welcoming a Manchester City side that is without its lynchpin Yaya Toure in the midfield, Jose Mourinho’s men would have a mental advantage over the reigning Premier League Champions when the latter will travel to London on Saturday.

Talking about Manchester City and taking a look at their season so far, lack of squad fortifying in the summer hasn’t helped Manchester City in their bid to regain the Premier League title. And with history against them as they haven’t won back to back titles in their history, Manchester City would be fighting against the odds when they would go to re-energize their bid for a title race on Saturday.

Team News

Here are the team news for both sides: –

Chelsea

After the Liverpool match when Diego Costa was handed a 3-game ban which the Spaniard decided to contest against, FA has upheld their decision which means that the striker would only be able to watch the match from the sidelines.

Having scored 17 goals already and being a lynchpin for the Chelsea squad throughout this season, Chelsea are set to miss their prized asset on Saturday evening.

However, apart from Costa, Chelsea are facing a multitude of problems as the League leaders will be sweating over the fitness of both Branislav Ivanovic and Cesc Fabregas as the duo faces race against time to be fit for the weekend clash of the titans.

Even though Fabregas acquired this injury in their last match vs Liverpool, the Serbian Ivanovic played the Liverpool played the whole match after which he acquired the injury which might force him out of this fixture.

In terms of the players being sidelined for Jose Mourinho’s team, John Obi Mikel is set to miss this clash as the defensive midfielder is struggling to get back to first-team action after the head injury which he sustained last week.

Manchester City

Looking at the Manchester City squad and taking a brief look at their injury list, the Premier League Champions might have a full squad to choose from against Chelsea. Apart from Yaya Toure and Wilfried Bony both of whom are on National duty with Ivory Coast, Manuel Pellegrini might have a fully fit set of players to choose from against the reigning Premier League leaders.

However, even though Eliaquim Mangala is returning to the first team action, his lack of form may force Manuel Pellegrini to reduce the Frenchman’s role to the bench. Thus, Martin DeMichellis might well start in the Manchester City midfield along with Vincent Kompany.

Talking about their midfield and since the absence of Yaya Toure has left a gaping hole in the City midfield, Frank Lampard is expected to lineup against his former team with the Brazilian Fernandinho providing him the cover in defensive midfield role.

Stats

• Last season when both these sides met at Stamford Bridge, a Sergio Aguero opener was cancelled out as Chelsea won the match 2-1.

• In last 10 fixtures between these sides in all competitions, Chelsea have won 3 times with 6 victories for the Citizens.

• Last win for Manchester City at Stamford Bridge dates back to 2010 when the citizens would with a 4-2 final scoreline

• Highest ever goal-scoring fixture between these sides came in 1960 when a combined 9 goals were scored by both teams.

• Since Jose Mourinho’s reunion with Chelsea in the summer of 2013, Chelsea have lost just once at home in the Premier League.

Prediction

Looking at the tactical ability of both the managers and taking into account that both of them will be without their main players, a draw is the most likely result.

Chelsea Vs Manchester City will be played on 31 Jan, 2015 at Stamford Bridge on 18:30 GMT [MatchCentre]

Chelsea vs Manchester City: Preview, Stats and Team news

Chelsea cs Manchester City: 5 players that are set to miss the title decider

English Premier League News:

Coming into this match on the back of an impressive win over Liverpool in the Capital One Cup final, Jose Mourinho would know that a win on Saturday would give him an indisputable lead over the reigning Premier League Champions in the title race.

However, for the other way around, a win for Manchester City will again make it a 2 horse race for the Premier League title. Many important players are set to miss this match most of which belong to the visitors Manchester City.

Here are 5 players that are set to miss the title decider at Stamford Bridge on Saturday: –

Diego Costa

Perhaps the biggest miss of the match for the home and away fans alike would be the Spaniard obviously for different reasons. After his lunge on Emre Can in mid-week which went unnoticed at the time – albeit penalized later – it was a writing on the wall that Costa would bear the brunt of his actions very soon and with a 3 game ban looming over his head, Chelsea might be in for a tough 3 weeks ahead.

Wilfried Bony

Even though the Ivorian striker signed a 28million pound deal with the Citizens midway through this month, his National duties in the African Cup of Nations meant that the former Swansea striker had to wait for at least a fortnight to make his Manchester City debut. And with Ivory Cost now qualifying for the next phase of the competition, Bony will join with his Manchester City teammates at some point during the next week.

Yaya Toure

Even though, Bony would be a miss for Manchester City in this must-win fixture, the absence of Yaya Toure has left a gaping hole in the Manchester City midfield. Even though, Lampard and Fernandinho would work hard to fill the void that has been created by his departure, Manchester City will surely miss the presence of their 2013/14 Player of the Season against the Londoners.

Samir Nasri

Not a high profile name like the aforementioned triplet, however, Samir Nasri would have been a valuable addition to the already extravagant away bench at the Stamford Bridge on Saturday. After making the start for the Citizens earlier this month at the Goodison Park, Nasri has been ruled out for a month and is expected to return in the 2nd week of February.

Eliaquim Mangala

Even though the Frenchman hasn’t quite lived up to the expectations that were related to him in his commitment to Manchester City, his absence would pave a way for Martin Demichelis to start in the Manchester City defense along with Vincent Kompany. The defender is expected to return to first team action at some stage next month.

Chelsea Vs Manchester City will be played at the Stamford Bridge on Jan 31, 2015 at 18:30 GMT [MatchCentre]

Chelsea cs Manchester City: 5 players that are set to miss the title decider

Barclays Premier League: Liverpool FC vs West Ham: Preview, Stats, Team news

EPL Match Preview:

A must win game for both sides, defeat will leave either of them in the cold after Saturday’s encounter at Anfield. While Liverpool are in a formidable run coming into this match with just 1 defeat in the last 11 matches heightening their claims, West Ham would be as confident as ever when they will visit Anfield on Saturday.

Having won 3 on a trot in the last fortnight of January, Sam Allardyce would be confident of getting something out from this fixture. Even though, Liverpool have reduced their gap with the Hammers with their hearty performances in the last few weeks, West Ham – with just 2 defeats in last 10 – are refusing to go down without a fight.

Team News

Here are the team news for both of the sides: –
Liverpool

While the Reds have been the receiving end of the injuries for the most part of this season, Saturday’s fixture would hand them a huge boost in the form of Daniel Sturridge who will make his 1st appearance for the Reds since last August.

However, just when the Reds thought the injury cloud emaciating from their heads, an injury to the Frenchman Mamadou Sakho might well free the defensive monsters that looked gone during the Frenchman’s presence in the Liverpool defense.

Looking more on the list of players that are sidelined from this fixture for the Reds, both Jon Flanagan and Brad Jones pops up as the likely candidates to watch this fixture from the stands.

West Ham

Looking at West Ham and even though they have 13 different goal-scorers in their ranks, their striking options are expected to bolster with the return of 6 players to their ranks.

While they have 6 players sidelined before this fixture, the Hammers are expected to get a huge boost as at least 3 from those 6 players are expected to make a return into the starting 11.

From those 3, Alex Song would be a valuable addition to the squad as the former Arsenal player looks set to return. Even though Song played in their win over Bristol City in the FA Cup, West Ham were sweating over his fitness, however, with a timely return, the Cameroon International has been declared fit to play in this fixture.

Stats

• In last 5 fixtures between these sides, West Ham has managed just a single win with 3 wins for Liverpool in the meantime

• Last season when both these sides met at Anfield in the Premier League, a brace from Luis Suarez helped Liverpool to a 4-1 win

• Since the start of 21st century, West Ham has managed just 2 wins from 24 fixtures in all competitions against the Reds

• Both these sides have met 128 times in all competitions before, Liverpool lead the race with 69 wins with 28 victories going towards the way of the Hammers.

• Last win for West Ham at Anfield dates back to 1963 when the Hammers defeated the Reds with a 2-1 final scoreline.

• Since then famous win in 1963 coming into this match, the Hammers have failed to collect all 3 points during a 5 decade long period at Anfield.

Prediction

With the return of Daniel Sturridge to the Liverpool squad, a Liverpool win is on the cards for this fixture.

Liverpool FC Vs West Ham will be played on 16:00 GMT at Anfield on Saturday, January 31 [MatchCentre]

Barclays Premier League: Liverpool FC vs West Ham: Preview, Stats, Team news

WHC News: Qatar players richer for 1 million dollars

World Handball Championship – News:

World Handball Championship is slowly going toward its end, today on schedule are semifinals game between Poland versus Qatar and Spain versus France.

But the biggest story today is reward for Qatar players for entering semifinals and finals. Qatar spent around 230 billion dollars on organization of this Championship. Before it starts it was a lot of talk regarding Qatar national team, since neither one of their players is born in Qatar.

Qatar wanted to show them in a good light and since money is not a problem for them they “import” players to play for their national team. They even import fans from Spain to support their national team in this Championship.

For entering semifinals each Qatar player would get 1 million dollars, luxury Maserati and apartment on “The Pearl”. Pearl is artificial island made near Doha coastline.

Qatar surprise everyone on this Championship, they manage to take second place in Group A with only one loss against Spain (25-28). In eight-finals they beat Austria 29-27 and in battle for semifinals they were better than Germany 26-24. Today at 15:30 GMT they will face Poland in the battle for the finals.

Qatar played 7 games on this Championship and they are at 57% attack efficiency (192/339), most goals they scored from 6m shots and from 9m shots 60. Their first goalkeeper Danijel Saric is currently fifth goalkeeper of this Championship, he is at 36% saves (49/137), their second goalkeeper Goran Stojanovic is currently holding fourth place in most saved penalty shots table with 41% (7/17).

Qatar best scorer is Zarko Markovic who is at 53.92% (55/102) shot efficiency; with 55 goals he is second on goal scorer list only one goal behind the leader Slovenian Dragan Gajic. Rafael Capote is Qatar second best scorer with 58.06% (36/62) shot efficiency or 36 goals from 7 games.

Qatar is proof that with money you can buy everything, maybe even World Championship gold. Qatar is doing the same thing with their national soccer team for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2022.

by ScoresPro.com

 

WHC News: Qatar players richer for 1 million dollars

Barcalys Premier League: Gabriel Paulista signs up for Arsenal. "A dream come true..."

Soccer Updates:

The 24-year old football star, Gabriel Paulista confirms signing of £11.2million transfer contract with Arsenal. The Gunners had been keeping eye on this Villarreal player for quite some time now and the deal has finally been closed with a four and a half year contract. He is now estimated to earn a basic salary of around £60,000-a-week at the Emirates.

Gabriel was offered a golden chance to play in the Premier League and he took full advantage of it by joining Arsenal, now the striker Joel Campbell is going to join Villarreal on loan for the rest of the season.

Paulista seemed very enthusiast about the transfer and in an interview he said; “I came from a club that is not that big in Brazilian football. I went to Spanish football and that was another dream come true, to play in Europe. A while ago I had a really huge desire to play in the Premier League, so since that point I put it in my head that I really wanted to do it. I had a talk with my family and I told them that it was my dream to play in the Premier League. Getting here to such a big club is so gratifying.” Moreover, he is willing to be helpful, “I am arriving at a big club and the fans can expect to find a Gabriel with a great will to help everyone.” He said.

Primarily a center back, the Brazilian footballer can also play as a defender which provides Arsenal with the complete squad that it had been lacking ever since Thomas Vermaelen left for Barcelona. While Gabriel is only expected to be backup right now, Arsenal is pretty sure that they have landed on a very exceptional talent.

by ScoresPro.com

Barcalys Premier League: Gabriel Paulista signs up for Arsenal. "A dream come true..."

Clubs spent 4.06 billion of dollars on transfer in last season

Soccer News:

According to FIFA Global Transfer Market report clubs spent around 4.06 billion dollars on transfers in last season. In the report FIFA said that last year it has been 2.9% more transfers than year before.

According to them last year there were made 13 090 soccer transfers and on them clubs spent 4.06 billion of dollars which is 2.1% more than in year before, in 2013 clubs spent 3.98 billion of dollars. This was also first time in history that clubs break the 4 billion dollars barrier.

England is most dominant league in the world, they spent around 1.17 billion dollars on transfer fees for players from abroad, second is Spain who spent 67% less or  around 467 million dollars. Spain league on other hand is the league that got the most money from transfers, according to FIFA Market report they earn 667 billion dollars.

In terms of country Brazil is still number they got in total 1335 transfer moves (646 in coming transfers and 689 outgoing transfers), but in compared from 2013 it is 7% drop. England is on second place with total 1263 transfer moves while Portugal is on third with 823 transfer moves.

FIFA for the first time include transfer of the minors and Spain continues to be the biggest league when it comes to sign under 18 players. But that might change soon since one of their giant (Barcelona) is under transfer ban and other (Real Madrid) is under investigation for their latest transfer.

Spain submitted 400 minor applications and FIFA accept 352, on second place is Portugal with 188 and on third England with 135. When ask about that many minor applications Mark Goddard general manager of FIFA TMS said it is good we got so many minor applications because that is what they should be doing.

by ScoresPro.com

 

Clubs spent 4.06 billion of dollars on transfer in last season

Injury concerns for Arsene Wenger ahead of Sunday’s clash against Aston Villa!

Soccer News:

It has been a tipsy turbid run for Arsenal in the English Premier League 2014-15 season so far. Currently sitting on 6th spot in the Premier League table, inconsistency and injuries to key players is a major reason for such a difficult League campaign. When in the first part of the season Ozil, Rasmey, Koscielny and Giroud got injured for a long time, it ruined Wenger’s preparation of competing for the League title. And when these players finally returned to action in a superb win over Manchester City a fortnight ago, another setback was ready to dent Arsenal’s dugout. After new signing Danny Welbeck suffered a crucial injury which kept him on sidelines for more than 2 weeks, now Alexis Sanchez is a fresh victim of Arsenal’s injury ghost.

Now their top scorer of this campaign, Alexis Sanchez who has scored 12 goals already in the debut season since joining from La Liga Giants FC Barcelona, has fallen ill due to a hamstring injury. Ahead of the Saturday’s clash against bottom side Aston Villa, it’s a fresh injury scare for Arsene Wenger to face as Sanchez could miss this vital League game after a superb performance against the defending Premier League Champions.

Speaking in a pre-match conference, Arsene Wenger has this to say about his squad’s condition.

‘’ The squad will be exactly the same as last Sunday. The only uncertainty we have is Alexis Sanchez who has a hamstring concern, and that will be decided on Saturday He might be out for Sunday’’.

So it’s more likely that Arsenal will be without their offensive spearhead against Paul Lambert’s Villa. But looking at the form of Villains, the Gunners should be too strong for Villa this Saturday.

by ScoresPro.com

Injury concerns for Arsene Wenger ahead of Sunday’s clash against Aston Villa!

Barclays Premier League: 4 reasons why Liverpool should sell Mario Balotelli

English Premier League News:

Coming into that match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and seeing Mario Balotelli to nod in from the sidelines when the clock indicated 70 minutes, Liverpool fans would have hoped that this might be the spark that is needed for the resurgence of their once celebrated signing. However, fast forward 50 minutes and at the end of 2nd period of extra time, they were questioning the logic of their manager to experiment Balotelli in such a tight finale.

Thus, here are 4 reasons why Liverpool should get rid of the Italian in January transfer window: –

Poor form

Although Liverpool fans tended to remind their Chelsea counterparts of a certain Fernando Torres who switched loyalties from Liverpool to London, – and failed miserably – , the Spaniard took less time than Mario Balotelli to open his Premier League account after leaving Liverpool.

Since Torres was branded time and again by Liverpool fans as flop, same can be said about the Italian midway through the season. Even though, the Spaniard switched loyalties midway through the 2011-12 season to play for Chelsea, he opened his Premier League account in his 14th match with the blues.

Talking about Mario Balotelli and looking at his lofty statements that continue to fall like raindrops, the Italian has failed to put the ball in the back of the net for 12 games in a row, and with Daniel Sturridge returning and Raheem Sterling showing his class, Mario Balotelli could have a ‘’Stewart-Downing-esque’’ first season for the Reds.

And even if he breaks the shackles and scores a goal or two, his goal will not serve the same purpose for the Reds for which they acquired him from Milan.

Daniel Sturridge returning

Even though the Englishman has an injury record which is more fearful than a Dracula, Liverpool have no other choice but to hand their dreams to Sturridge if they want them to be fulfilled this season.

While Daniel Sturridge should make his 1st start for Liverpool this weekend which would be his 1st in a Red shirt since the end of August 2014, Brendan Rodgers can afford to take a risk by selling Mario Balotelli.

While his form on the pitch hasn’t done well to strengthen his case, his attitude of carelessness catalyzed by his wayward efforts on goal has only dented the support that Liverpool fans enshrined on him from day one.

Thus, by offering him a quick route escape from the Merseyside, Brendan Rodgers can lend a helping hand – not only to Liverpool – but also to Mario who has been suffering miserably at the Merseyside this season.

Meteoric rise of Raheem Sterling

While Liverpool fans might have felt it all gone away when Daniel Sturridge suffered another setback of fitness in November, it was Raheem Sterling who kept them afloat amid some scathing criticism from all sides.

While their form in the whole season has been debatable, last 10 matches in which Sterling played – prior to that Carling Cup misery at the Bridge – have generated a much needed unbeaten streak for the reds.

Thus, God forbid, if the injury monster comes back again to haunt the prized asset at Liverpool, Raheem Sterling has nourished enough to share the burden of some questionable decisions that were made by his manager in the summer transfer window.

Convincing the owners to buy another striker

Back at the end of last season when Manchester City had 4 strikers at their helm, anyone would have labelled their depth as brilliant. However, out of all those 4 strikers, only two of them managed to get past double figures in terms of goals.

As a result Manuel Pellegrini – no matter how much backing he had of the owners – had to sell one of them to convince the Abu Dhabi-based ownership that the team needs re-reinforcements in their striking department.

Similar situation has now erupted at Anfield and it is up to Brendan Rodgers to play the same role that his colleague – Manuel Pellegrini – played at the Etihad: to convince the owners for some investment in the strike department of the club.

While words might fell terribly short of explaining his stance to the American ownership, the sale of Mario Balotelli can strengthen the case of Brendan Rodgers in front of John w Henry and Co.

by ScoresPro.com

Barclays Premier League: 4 reasons why Liverpool should sell Mario Balotelli

Top 5 goal-scoring strike forces in the Premier League this season

English Premier League News:

In this season of the Premier League where majority of the top teams spent on their strike department in order to force their way into the top 4, we take a look at top 5 strike forces in terms of goals scored so far. While there are some obvious name in the list as Chelsea and Manchester City, some candidates of the list might surprise anyone reading.

Here are top 5 strike forces in the Premier League so far this season: –

1. Arsenal and Chelsea (22 goals each)

While both the London clubs spent heavily in the summer transfer window and left no stone unturned in their respective quest for a proven striker, the local rivals share the top spot in our list of the best strike force.

While both of them have played 3 strikers each in their team off and on this season, they both stand aligned with 22 goals.

While, for Arsenal, Sanchez is the top scorer with 12 goals to his name, Diego Costa leads the Chelsea folklore after scoring 17 goals already.

2. Manchester City (21 goals)

Although the reigning Premier League Champions haven’t been blessed with the injury factor so far, their strike-force have managed a decent goal-scoring rate so far this season.

Leading the hunt for the Premier League Champions – despite his injury scares – is Sergio Aguero as the Argentine have managed 14 goals to his name. The other two strikers have notched 7 goals combined and thus, Manchester City has managed 21 goals from their front 3 so far this season.

Since Bony has scored all of his goals before joining Manchester City, the Ivorian hasn’t been included in this list.

3. Manchester United (20 goals)

While the 20 times Premier League Champions have been porous when it comes to defending goals, their attacking quadruple of Rooney, Van Persie, Falcao, and James Wilson have helped them to challenge for a Champions League spot this season.

Having scored 8 goals each, both Wayne Rooney and Robin Van Persie have been the top-scorers for the Red devils this season. Even though Falcao hasn’t been at his best form yet, the Colombian has notched 3 goals with a paltry goal coming from James Wilson.

4. West Ham (18 goals)

While the Hammers aren’t near of the aforementioned triplet when it comes to spending money, West Ham have an enviable strike force at their disposal this season.

With Diafra Sakho leading the attack for the Londoners in the Premier League courtesy to his 8 Premier League goals, Andy Carroll isn’t far behind as the former Liverpool striker has managed a decent 5 goals to his credit.

Being another Colombian who chosen English soil last summer, Enner Valencia has been a subdued success for the Hammers this season. For the 12 million pounds they spent on the former Pachuca FC man, West Ham have extracted 3 goals from him.

Out of sorts with the manager and the fans alike, Carlton Cole has also managed 2 goals so far this season.

5. Southampton and Tottenham (12 goals each)

While one of them has been residing 3rd in the Premier League table contrary to what everybody expected of them, Tottenham have an expected ride as they sit 6th in the table 4 points of the 4th placed Manchester United.

While Southampton faced a mass exodus of players last summer contrary to what Spurs experienced as they experienced a mass-intake in the summer of 2013/14, one thing that unites both of them is the goals scored by their strike force.

Both these teams’ strikers have scored 12 goals each.

by ScoresPro.com

Top 5 goal-scoring strike forces in the Premier League this season

Pakistan Cricket: Mohammad Amir to return to Domestic Cricket!

Cricket News:

When all is going against Team Pakistan in terms of untimely injuries and suspension to key players, finally a good news has emerged for the Green Shirts from the ICC Camp. After being suspended for five long years due to match fixing allegations, ban on Mohammad Amir has been lifted by the International Cricket Council with immediate effect.

It was September 2010 when this growing superstar of Pakistan Cricket was caught red handed during the England Tour. Along with two other players including Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif, a 17 year old Amir was involved in Spot Fixing allegations. In a sting operation carried by News of the World (News Paper), these three players agreed to bowl some no balls and do some acts for a hefty money. Headed by local journalist Mazhar Majeed, Amir fell a victim to this spot fixing scandal. However, Mazhar Majeed, reporter who carried all this operation filmed all these scenes with the trio and later on, aired it on live TV.

So a ban was imminent and ICC acted accordingly. All these players were handed a straight ban, 5 years each to be more precise. Later on, these players also served some time in jail due to spoiling the rules of the game. However, after years of hardship and facing intense criticism from all sides, it seems that Mohammad Amir has now finally emerged from the doom days.

In a meeting conducted by ICC, it was decided that Mohammad Amir can now take part in Domestic Cricket. Before this meeting, Amir was banned until September this year. However, now under the light of this announcement, Amir can now take part in the domestic cricket of Pakistan.

Amir, who took 25 wickets in just 15 ODIs while playing for Pakistan was extremely jubilant after hearing this news. Speaking to a press conference, he said.

‘’It’s a new life for me and you will see not only Mohammad Amir as a better cricketer but also a better human being’’.

by ScoresPro.com

Pakistan Cricket: Mohammad Amir to return to Domestic Cricket!

Australian Open Final: Serena Williams vs Maria Sharapova

Tennis Updates:

Serena Williams will face Maria Sharapova in the Australian Open final after the pair won their semi-finals in straight sets in Melbourne. Williams brushed aside the latest member of ‘generation next’ trying to steal her crown by beating teenager Madison Keys 7-6(5) 6-2 on Thursday. The Russian had trounced compatriot Ekaterina Makarova 6-3 6-2 in the earlier semi-final. The best two players in the world have a long history and the odds are stacked in Williams’ favour ahead of the Melbourne Park decider on Saturday with the American holding a major psychological advantage. She has a 16-2 record against Sharapova, with the Russian five-time Grand Slam champion losing their every encounter since 2004.

Here is what Sharapova said about her past opponent Ekaterina Makarova:

“Playing a fellow Russian and playing someone who maybe wasn’t the favourite going into the semi-final, I knew she would come out and play really well,” the reigning French Open champion said. “I was ready for that and stood my ground and competed well.”

“I think my confidence should be pretty high going into a final of a grand slam no matter who I’m facing and whether I’ve had a terrible record, to say the least, against someone,” Sharapova said. “It doesn’t matter. I got there for a reason. I belong in that spot. I will do everything I can to get the title.”

“It’s been a strange road for me to get to the final, but I’m happy,” said Sharapova, who is now into her 10th Grand Slam final. “Came from behind in a few, really behind in one – saving match points. I felt like I was given a second chance. I just wanted to take my chances.”

“I think her power and her aggressiveness, I think that’s always made me a little bit too aggressive, maybe going for a little bit more than I had to,” she said. “She’s great at making players hit that shot that you don’t necessarily have to go for. “It’s been a really difficult matchup for me but I am a competitor.”

“She’s obviously a great player,” Williams said courtside, still suffering a cold and breaking into coughs. “I think she’s going to be winning this tournament very soon and lots of other grand slams. “I was really happy to see her do so well and be such a great sport at the same time.”

“I’ve felt better, but I’m feeling OK,” Serena said. “I’m just happy to still be in the tournament.”

Ekaterina Makarova vs Maria Sharapova 29/01/2015, 02:40 GMT, Match Center

Serena Williams vs. Madison Keys 29/01/2015, 04:30 GMT, Match Center

Serena Williams vs Maria Sharapova 31/01/2015, 08:30 GMT, Head to Head Matches

Australian Open Final: Serena Williams vs Maria Sharapova

WHC Quarterfinals: Qatar kicked out Germany, last second win for Spain over Denmark

World Handball Championship – Quarterfinals:

Croatia – Poland 22 – 24 (10-12)

Finally Poland manage to beat Croatia, except two times in the game Poland was leading during the whole game. Croatia open the game better and in 13’ they had two goals led (4-2) but until 16’ Poland already take the lead. Poland make two goals lead in 19’ and until the halftime they keep that lead. Croatia better open the second half with 4 goals by Duvnjak and one from Kopljar and Horvat. In 40’ Croatia had three goals lead at that point Poland was nowhere to been seen. But similar to their game against Brazil, Croatia struggle in attack and except individual qualities they didn’t have any team tactic for Poland strong 6-0 defense. Poland manage to catch Croatia in 50’ and score was 18-18. Poland secure win in last 5 minutes, when they scored 3 goals and didn’t allow Croatia to score even once.

Qatar – Germany 26-24 (18-14)

Qatar dream is still alive, they manage to kick out Germany and will be fighting for the medal. Except for the start lead we didn’t see anything from German side, Qatar took the lead in 10’ and in 13’ they already got three goals difference (6-3). Until the halftime they extend their goal lead. Qatar had the biggest lead in 26’ when the score was 1 6-9 for them, but until the halftime Germany manage to reduce that goal difference. In second half Germany enter better and in 39’ they were close to getting a draw, but Markovic and Capote manage to move Qatar back on three goals difference. Until the end game was mostly played goal by goal.

France – Slovenia 32-23 (18-10)

When France didn’t play good in group stage we talk about how we will see the best France in the knockout stage, well we are in the knockout stage and we are seeing different France. Slovenia took the lead 1-0 and in next thirteen minutes they couldn’t score a goal, while France score 7. After that “black hole” Slovenia couldn’t come back into the game anymore and France was slowly extending their lead, at one point they even have 9 goals difference. Second half was formality for France team, they start in “second gear” and keep the goal difference. Slovenia never had a chance to catch France completely on scoring board, closest they come was on -4 in 49’. But in only three minutes France quickly scored 4 goals and get back on eight goals lead.

Denmark – Spain 25-24 (11-11)

in a hard and good game Spain manage to beat Denmark with goal in last seconds of the game. Denmark has the slight lead during the most part of the first half they took the early lead and after that is was mostly goal by goal. Second half was similar to first, Denmark has the slight lead but Spain was always somewhere near them. First significant lead Spain took in 46’ when they had two goals lead 20-18. Denmark quickly come back and in 55’ Lindberg score for Denmark lead 23-22. In last five minutes we watch a real thriller. After the Denmark lead Entrerrios scored the equalizer in next Spain attack. Hansen shot in 58:14 was saved by Perez de Vargas and Rivera scored for Spain lead in 59:10. Quick after that in 59:36 Larsen scored for another draw 24-24 and Spain had the opportunity for last attack. Literary in last seconds of the game Canellas scored with good 9m shot for Spain win 25-24.

by ScoresPro.com

WHC Quarterfinals: Qatar kicked out Germany, last second win for Spain over Denmark

NBA News: Best trade scenarios for title contenders

Basketball,NBA News:

As the trade deadline is coming closer and closer, front offices have been working harder and harder in order to find the best way possible to improve the rosters on their teams. The trades that gather the most attention and that are usually thought to be the most importan include superstars changing teams. However, sometimes the trades that are the most improving, don’t include big names and are the most helpful. We will now examine which are the contenders that can use a trade of this kind:

5. Chris Copeland joining the Grizzlies

If the Memphis Grizzlies can offer a valuable draft pick to the Indinana Pacers the trade could happen quite quick. The Grizzlies could use an offensive boost to their second unit and Copeland is definately a man could do that. Furthermore, the Grizzlies have been a having a lot of problems from behind the three-point land and getting a sharp-shooter like Chris would improve their shooting from downtown.

4. Kirilenko transferred to the Raptors Andrei Kirilenko hasn’t been attending training sessions wite the 76ers this season, however the Raptors won’t face such problems if the Russians decides to join them. Toronto is a championship contender now while the 76ers will have title hopes after 10 years. Kirilenko is known for his good defensive abilities and would surely improve the Raptors depth.

3. Prigioni goes to the Rockets

The Rockets office is chasing bigger nams on the market, like Reggie Jackson and Goran Dragic, however there should always be a Plan B. The name of that plan is Pablo Prigioni. The Argentinian could prove to be very helpful when it comes to running the Houston offense – he is a skillful passer and can be effective even without the ball in his hands. On the defensive end he is also a pretty good player and his price is really low compared to the superstars which Houston’s office aims at.

2. The Blazers get Wilson Chandler

If Portland finds a way to pull off this one, they will surely start looking as an even stronger contender than they are now. Chandler would suit them great, as he as a pretty good three-and-d role player. He can be a valuable replacement to Aldridge and Batum if any of them misses time. Furthermore, he will solidify the bench of the Blazers, one of their weakest points this season.

1. Biyombo joins the Mavericks

Even though the Mavericks were able to pull off a blockbuster and get Rajon Rondo, their bench took quite a hit. Dallas’ depth isn’t what it used to be and Mark Cuban should definately do something about. Getting Biyombo in exchange for one of their backup point-guards seems like a pretty sensible deal and having Biyombo coming off th bench for Tyson Chandler would mean that there won’t be any defensive drop when Chandler isn’t on the court.

by ScoresPro.comm

NBA News: Best trade scenarios for title contenders

Copa del Rey: Torres does it again, but Barcelona gets away with the victory

Soccer News:

Barcelona eliminated Atletico Madrid in the quaterfinals in the Copa del Rey after a 3:2 win on the full “Vicente Calderon”. A week before this game, the team from Catalunya was able to get a 1:0 victory on “Camp Nou” which means that they will be moving on to the semifinals.

The battle in Madrid offered a very exciting first half, as all five goals were scored in it. The home team was able to get a one goal advantage twice, but an own-goal by Miranda and a goal from Neymar erased those leads. Fernando Torres was able to score in the first minute of the match, the same way he did against Real Madrid in the previous round of the tournament. However, this time Atletico had a more determined opponent that was ready to do anything in order to succeed. Furthermore, the team from Madrid played with a man less in the whole second half, as Gabi received a red card at half time. In the end of the match, Mario Suarez was also sent off the pitch.

Moreover, Atletico had a lot of problem before the match had even started – Diego Simeone wasn’t able to rely on three players, which are usually in the starting eleven, as they were penalized in their previous game – Diego Godin, Koke and Tiago Mendes. Their absence proved to be too much and the tradition of Atletico losing from Barcelona in the Copa del Rey was continued.

The first half was just a crazy spectacle, with both teams scorin goal after goals. The most notable goal was the one scored by Fernando Torres in the first minute – just in matter of a couple of weeks, the player that was thought to have lot his touch was able to score in the first 60 seconds against both Real Madrid and Barcelona. However, Atletico wasn’t able to maintain the lead and in the end the final score was 3:2 in favor of Barcelona. A big reason for the defeat came from the fact that Atletico had only 10 men on the pitch in the second half. Barcelona took advantage and the team is now looking forward to the semifinals.

By ScoresPro.com

Copa del Rey: Torres does it again, but Barcelona gets away with the victory

Oliver Kahn don't think Borussia will able to keep Reus in summer transfer window

Soccer News:

Marco Reus will probably be the most wanted player in summer transfer windows. According to Oliver Kahn, retired Germany goalkeeper who played for Karlsruhe and Bayern Munich Borussia, Dortmund will not be able to keep Reus in the summer transfer window.

As the main reason why he thinks like that is the amount of money that Borussia Dortmund is require if someone want to buy Reus. Kahn said that it will be really hard for Borussia to keep Marco Reus, probably because they won’t be playing in Europe in next season. According to Kahn Dortmund can keep Reus only if they break their financial limits, because Reus release clause of €25 Mill is nothing to big clubs.

So it might happened in the summer that Borussia will lost their third start in third year in a row. Two season ago Mario Götze move from Borussia Dortmund to Bayern Munich and last year Robert Lewandowski also moved from Borussia Dortmund to Bayern Munich.

Borussia is not doing well this season, they are at 17^th place in Bundesliga with only 15 points from 17 games. They lost 10 games so far in Bundesliga more than they lost during whole last season (7). But surprisingly they are doing well in UEFA Champions League where they go into the next round and will play against Juventus.

Marco Reus join Borussia Dortmund in season 2012/2013 from Borussia Monchengladbach. Or Monchengladbach he played 109 games and scored 41 goal. For Borussia Dortmund Marco played 69 games and scored 33 goals, his currently transfer value is around €50 Mill.

Will Borussia manage to negotiate a new contract with Reus with bigger release clauses or will they lost another star player in summer transfer window, it remains to see.

by ScoresPro.com

Oliver Kahn don't think Borussia will able to keep Reus in summer transfer window

Australian Open: Djokovic reaches semi-finals, faces Stan Wawrinka

Tennis Updates:

Four-time champion Novak Djokovic dismantled the big serving of Milos Raonic to reach the Australian Open semi-finals. The Serb went into the quarter-final contest against Canadian Raonic off the back of hugely comfortable wins in the previous rounds, but was expected to face a sterner test against the 8th seed. The world number one was in imperious form as he needed just one hour and 55 minutes to beat eighth seed Raonic 7-6 (7-5) 6-4 6-2. However, Djokovic barely broke a sweat as he neutralised the big-hitting Canadian’s ground strokes with pace, precision and variation on the return.

There were moments of frustration for Djokovic as four break points came and went in the first set, but a wild Raonic forehand at 3-2 down in the tie-break handed over the initiative. Djokovic capitalized, before taking an even firmer grip on the contest with a brilliant cross-court backhand winner to finally break at the start of the second.

Here is what Raonic said after the match:

“He just didn’t allow me to organise my game. Even when he was returning well, by the end of the match he was doing a good job of playing deep and never allowing me to go forward,”

“Obviously if you watch the footage, he was pretty much on the baseline the whole time and I was further back.”

“I take a lot of confidence,” said Djokovic. “I try to carry that in every next match, next challenge. Obviously I’m going to play Stan, who is the defending champion here.

“We played five-set matches in 2013 and 2014 Australian Open. I’m going to be ready for a fight. But knowing that I have raised the level of performance tonight, and probably playing the best match of the tournament so far is affecting my confidence in a positive way. “Hopefully I can carry that into next one.”

Djokovic will next face defending champion Stan Wawrinka for the third year running in Melbourne.

“Definitely expecting a marathon like the last couple of years. I’m sure that both of us will give our best to perform our best tennis,” Djokovic said of his semi-final tie against Wawrinka. “We always ask for the best of each other.”

“You know when you play Novak, especially in semi-final in a grand slam, you have to play your best game,” Wawrinka said.

“You have to play your best tennis if you want to push him. So far I’m playing great. I’m confident with my game.”

Novak Djokovic vs Milos Raonic, 28/01/2015, 08:35 GMT, Match Center

Novak Djokovic vs Stanislas Wawrinka, 30/01/2015, 00:00 GMT, Head to Head Matches

Australian Open: Djokovic reaches semi-finals, faces Stan Wawrinka

Cricket ODI, England vs India: Preview, Pitch Info of the must win game Men in Blue

Cricket News:

After not winning a single of their first 3 ODIs of Carlton Mid ODI Tri Series, a woundedIndia side will face a stiff test in the form of an in form England this Friday. It’s been a difficult period for MS Dhoni and co who are looking out of form just 1 month before the Cricket World Cup 2015. However, after a draw with Australia in their last match, India’s chances are still alive to make it to the final of this tournament. However, England whose only win have come against India so far just couldn’t afford a defeat as it would knock themselves out of the Carlton Mid ODI tri series.

Live Preview Info:

England vs India will take place at Perth on 30th January, 03:20 GMT.

In the last year or so, Team India have struggled a lot on international soil. Apart from the Champions League heroics back in 2013, the Men in Blue are lack luster when it comes to foreign tours. Star Players like Shikhar Dhawan and MS Dhoni aren’t up to the mark in this series as well. So just before the start of Cricket World Cup 2015, it’s a good chance for the defending Champions to regroup themselves with a morale boosting performance over the English.

However, Eoin Morgan’s men have claimed some sort of confidence in this series. A new captain has brought a new excitement in their ranks. Even though the English have won just one game this series, but that doesn’t hide their good work done in the last month or so. Last time when both these sides met, England absolutely demolished the men in blue by 9 wickets. SO Eoin Morgan would want his side to regenerate that kind of performance once again this Friday.

Pitch Info:
WACA has been one of the most suitable pitches for the Fast Bowlers in recent years. So there will be a good bit of help for the likes of James Anderson and co this Friday at the Perth Cricket Stadium.

With so much inconsistency on both sides, a crunch game is on the cards this Friday.

by ScoresPro.com

Cricket ODI, England vs India: Preview, Pitch Info of the must win game Men in Blue

Real Madrid superstar Gareth Bale rules out Manchester United move

LA Liga News:

Even though the 20-time Premier League Champions were in for the Welshman for a long time, the 2012/13 Premier League Player of the Year has ruled out any notion that was linking him with Manchester United in 2015. Even though Manchester United pursued Bale long before he joined the Spanish giants, the Welshman seems in no mood to play under Luis Van Gaal.

When Bale was signed from Tottenham for a fee in the region of 85-million-pounds, he was dubbed as the successor of Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid. However, fast forward 1 year and lack of support from the Real Madrid folklore has fuelled talks of his exit from the 10time European Champions.

Even though he scored the winner for Real Madrid last season both in UEFA Champions League and COPA DEL RAY final, there were rumors of swap deal going with Manchester United with David de Gea moving the other way.

Having scored 10 goals already this season which makes him the 2nd top scorer for the reigning European Champions, Bale was booed by Real Madrid fans for lack of passing earlier this month in their match against Espanyol.

While that behavior by the Real Madrid fans might have haunted Gareth Bale’s confidence at the helm, it has served as the spring board of rumors that were linking Bale to a reunion with Premier League football.

However, with the recent interview given by Bale to the local Radio Station CADENA SER, the Welshman has ruled out any plans that were linking him with Manchester United.

‘’I am enjoying myself and we are winning trophies. I want to continue doing this at Real Madrid. I feel the support of the Bernabeu. I am going to continue working to show what I am capable of doing on the pitch and so as to win more trophies’’ Bale said in his latest interview

Bale said “I don’t think I’m greedy. On the pitch I make assists and score goals. I play the game how I like to play and the press can say what they want.”

In his short Real Madrid career to date, the former Tottenham player has scored 36 and assisted 26 goals for Real Madrid in just 72 matches with Real Madrid.

by ScoresPro.com

Real Madrid superstar Gareth Bale rules out Manchester United move

Cricket World Cup 2015: Missing XI from the Mega Event!

Cricket News:

It’s the dream of every player to represent his team in International Colors. And when it’s about World Cup, not a single athlete wants to miss the chance to play in the Mega Event. But when hundreds of players just couldn’t make it to the top level, there are many professionals as well who never played in the biggest event of cricketing history. So when Cricket World Cup 2015 is going to start next month in Australia and New Zealand, there are many big names who won’t be a part of it. Let’s look at the top 11 players who will miss this year’s World Cup due to different reasons.

1- Kamran Akmal:

After representing Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2013 against arch rivals India, Kamran Akmal has been out from the international scene. The 33 year old Pakistani Wicketkeeper Batsman was a major part of Green Shirts which featured in 2011 World Cup. However, due to declining form and much better replacements, Kamran Akmal hasn’t travelled with the Pakistan Squad this time.

2- Jesse Ryder:

A hard hitting Kiwis Batsmen, Jesse Ryder is another superstar who will be a missing ingredient in this year’s Mega Event. He played his last ODI for New Zealand against India in January 2014, before being sidelined due to poor form and succession of injuries. Ryder wasn’t included in the 30 man preliminary squad, let alone the final 15 for World Cup.

3- Kevin Pietersen:

Here is a player who has been in hot water with his board for almost a year now. Kevin has been one of the stylish batsmen this world would ever see, but his refute with Cook and ECB officials made him a bad boy in the eyes of English Board. So England will be without Kevin Pietersen when they open their World Cup account next month.

4- Shoaib Malik:

Just like his old pal Kamran Akmal in this list, Malik played his last One Day International for Team Pakistan in last year’s Champions League. He represented Pakistan in more than 200 ODIs and is a former captain as well. But lack of form cost him the position in World Cup 2015.

5- Dwayne Bravo:

Due to disciplinary issues with the WICB, the board officials excluded on of the very best all Rounder’s of the game from the final squad. Dwayne Bravo, known due to his hard hitting abilities lower down the order, created some refute in the Indian Tour last month. As a result, Bravo has been out of the Mega Event.

6- Kieron Pollard:

Another hard hitting and aggressive batter, Pollard has been sidelined due to somewhat ambiguous reasons from the Mega Event. WICB has faced intense criticism after keeping out the deadly duo, Pollard and Bravo from their World Cup squad.

7- Yuvraj Singh:

After playing a vital part in India success in 2011 World Cup, life has been somewhat difficult for this left handed Batsman. After recovering from Cancer disease, Yuvraj made his comeback in Indian Cricket, but it remain short lived. So he’ll be taking part in local tournament when Dhoni and co plays in the World Cup.

8- J. Neesham:

A player whose exclusion came as a surprise to many, Neesham was a part of Kiwis squad which managed a series victory over Pakistan last December. However, that didn’t save Neesham from facing the axe.

9- U. Gul:

Due to injury concerns, Umar Gul is another key figure who won’t be a part of Pakistan squad next month. He was in contention to be included in the Mega Event, but his repetition of injuries rues his chances in the end.

10- S. Narine:

The most recent player who has ruled himself out of the mega event, Narine has decided not to take part in Next month’s mega event due to some issues with his action.

11- S. Ajmal:

Pakistan Cricket will be without a number of key players going into the World Cup. And the most important absentee will be this magician spinner, Saeed Ajmal.

by ScoresPro.com

Cricket World Cup 2015: Missing XI from the Mega Event!

3 goalkeepers Real Madrid could sign as a replacement of Iker Casillas

La Liga News:

Even though the LOS BLANCOS are sitting atop of LA Liga with a 1 point lead over the 2nd placed Barcelona with a game in hand, the reigning European Champions have strengthened their squad with 2 early deals in the winter transfer window.

Even though the Norwegian Martin Odegaard can be described as a future potential for the club, the signing of Brazilian defensive midfielder Lucas Silva underlines their policy of acquiring youngsters.

Thus, with Iker Casillas nearing the end of his Real Madrid career and MLS possibly his next destination after a 16 year reign at the Spanish Capital, here are 3 goal-keepers Real Madrid could sign as his replacement: –

David De Gea

Being a successor of Casillas in the Spanish National team after the horrendous World Cup performances by the Real Madrid goal-keeper, De Gea has been linked with Real Madrid time and again in the past 6 months after his rise to the limelight in a Manchester United shirt. And with his contract ending in 2016’ summer, Real Madrid could well get him at the end of this season to solve their goal-keeping woes for long.

Real Madrid may well have to pay Manchester United a fortune if they want to land David De Gea at Santiago Bernabeau in 2015

The Spaniard has kept 7 clean-sheets so far and is a major reason of the challenge that Manchester United is posing for a top 4 spot this season.

And with his agent Jorge Mendes claiming earlier this month that things change every 5 minutes, the Spaniard could well leave the 20 time Premier League Champions to join his forces with the current European Champions Real Madrid.

Hugo Lloris

Sitting at 6th in the Premier League table just 2 points behind their city rivals Arsenal, it would take some doing by Real Madrid if they want to land the Frenchman at the Santiago Bernabeau in January transfer window.

However, in the long-run with the aspirations shown by the French Number 1 to play in Champions League, Real Madrid could sign him in the summer if Spurs fails to qualify for the Champions League this season.

Having kept 5 clean sheets already this season behind a porous Tottenham Hotspur defense, Lloris has undergone a major transition under new manager Pochettino. Even though Spurs have conceded the most number of goals amongst any side in the top 7, Lloris manages 2 saves per goal which is more than decent for any goal-keeper.

And unlike De Gea who might cost Real Madrid a fortune for his signature, the Frenchman could be available for a fee in the region of 20-30 million pounds.

Anthony Lopes

Residing in the same league with the money bags Paris Saint Germain and FC Monaco and seeing off both, Lyon has surprised everybody beyond expectations this season. Sitting atop of the Ligue 1 table after 22 matches with a 4 point lead over the 2nd placed Marseille, the current League leaders have demonstrated their ammunition in grand fashion this season.

And holding the goal-keeper role for the French league leaders is Anthony Lopes who has managed a brilliant record so far this season. Although he wasn’t at his best form last season, the Portuguese has demonstrated his capabilities in grand fashion this season.

Having kept 10 clean sheets already this season, Lopes is the joint clean-sheet winner in Europe’s top 5 leagues this season

Even though Lopes isn’t a house hold name unlike the aforementioned duo, the goal-keeper has managed 10 clean sheets which makes him the joint highest clean-sheet winner in Europe’s top 5 leagues this season

Having played in all 22 matches for Lyon ahead of other goalkeepers, Lopes has just let 17 goals in Ligue 1 this season at a staggering rate of under 1 goal per match.

Thus, even though Lacazette is earning all the headlines for his heroic performances on the pitch, the Portuguese Lopes has been a silent warrior for the Ligue 1 outfit this season.

by ScoresPro.com

3 goalkeepers Real Madrid could sign as a replacement of Iker Casillas

Michael Biegler is in problems before their clash against Croatia in quarterfinals

World Handball Championship:

Poland manage to beat Sweden in eight-finals to earn their place in quarterfinals. Today they will go against Croatia. But Poland coach Michael Biegler has a lot of problems on his mind.

Biegler expect a very hard game against Croatia and he hope that his team will take revenge for their last defeat from Croatia. Biegler said that games against Croatia are always hard because both of teams know very well each other. Biegler thinks that the main problems for his team might be one day less for rest then Croatia and probably medical conditions of his players.

Before their eight-finals game against Sweden Biegler had several problems with injuries. He said that Mariusz Jurkiewicz will probably start the game against Croatia while Piotr Chrapkowski and Robert Orzechowski are under question mark to play against Croatia. Biegler also mention that Krzysztof Lijewski will not be able to play against Croatia, which will be a big blow for Poland team. Lijewski is the only player with serious injury in Poland squad. First he manage to injury his knee and then he get muscular rupture, so his chances to play against Croatia are slim.

Biegler expect even harder game then the game against Sweden, he mention Croatia game against Brazil in eight-finals. Biegler said that it was a crazy but even game, but in key moment’s Croatian players shown why are they one of best handball players in the world. Brazil had their chances but each time when they should score they make 2-3 technical errors. If Poland wants to beat Croatia then they cannot make same mistakes like Brazil, said Biegler. When ask about their game against Sweden Biegler said that it was a good game, but that Sweden is different team without Kim Andersson.

Game between Croatia and Poland are scheduled to be played on 28 January at 15:30 GMT in Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiya Arena in Doha.

World Handball Championship Fixtures, Standings & Results.

By ScoresPro.com

Michael Biegler is in problems before their clash against Croatia in quarterfinals

NBA Rumors: Hornets and Nets discuss swaping Joe Johnson and Lance Stephenson

Basketball, NBA News:

The name Lance Stephenson has been mentioned quite often this season and that’s not without a reason – the former Indiana Pacers player has performed pretty terrible since he was acquired by the Charlotte Hornets. After the Hornets began their season in a disastrous fashion, they have noticed that when Lance isn’t on the court for a lot of minutes, the team has looked a lot better and is winning games games. Charlotte has been trying to find a team that would be interested in him, but however Stephenson still is on the Hornets roster. Nevertheless, now it looks like very possible for the Hornets to finally trade Lance.

The Brooklyn Nets have been looking as a team that is interested in getting Stephenson in their roster, while sending Joe Johnson to the Hornets. The trade discussions have been heating up lately and it won’t be too much of a surprise if the teams pull out the trade soon. It has been reported that the deal would include the movement of the followig players – Lance Stephenson, Gerald Henderson, Marvin Williams and Joe Johnson. For the Nets, the deal would be very positive from a financial point of view, while for the Hornets it would definately be an offense booster.

The Brooklyn Nets have also been reported to be discussing a trade with the Denver Nuggets including Brook Lopez, however thison including Lance Stephenson and Joe Johnson has been looking a lot more possible. Whether will happen is just a matter of time.

By ScoresPro.com

NBA Rumors: Hornets and Nets discuss swaping Joe Johnson and Lance Stephenson

Latest Transfer News: Samuel Eto’o joins Sampdoria from Everton!

Transfer News:

After days of speculations and linked with many teams in Europe, Samuel Eto’o has now finally completed his move away from Goodison Park today. The 33 year old former Barcelona Striker joined Everton in the last summer on a free transfer. He was released by Chelsea before Everton tied him for a short time. But now, just after 6 months of stay in the blue half of Merseyside, Eto’o time has finally came to an end in the English Premier League.

Announced on Everton FC’s official website, it has been said that Eto’o will join the Italian Club Sampdoria from now on a free transfer. His new contract will tie him until 2018. It’s not his first visit to Serie A, as the Cameroon International also played for Italian Giants Inter Milan from 2009-2011. He won 6 trophies in that short interval, so Sampdoria fans will be hoping that Eto’o might bring some glory to their ranks.

Roberto Martinez showed his praise for the former toffees Striker on the Club’s Official website. In his testimonial, Everton Boss has this to say,

“The memory of his performances in Europe stand out especially. On behalf of all Evertonians, we wish him well for the next chapter in his career.”

During his short spell with the Merseyside Club, Eto’o found the back of the net on 4 occasions in 20 appearances. When Everton are struggling in this year’s Premier League, the case is entire opposite with Eto’o new club. Sampdoria are currently sitting on 5th spot in the Serie A table, with just 2 points behind the 3rd spot Napoli side. So the Italian Club would hope that Eto’o can push them into top four spots as early as possible.

by ScoresPro.com

Latest Transfer News: Samuel Eto’o joins Sampdoria from Everton!

Juan Roman Riquelme - Retirement of last real number 10

Soccer News:

On Monday soccer world was hit by a bad news that “El Torero” or Juan Roman Riquelme is saying goodbye to professional soccer. With his retirement we can say that we lost last real “number 10”. You would say that we still have Ronaldinho, but there are differences between Brazil number 10 and Argentina number 10. Difference that is hard to explain, in Brazil number 10 was usual player that is slightly better than the rest of the team, while in Argentina number 10 is god.

Number 10 in each team is usual the playmaker or the player that can and will make a difference on the field. Player that will give through ball toward his teammates, that will pass 2 or 3 opponent players and send precise cross toward his teammates or he will take the ball and just score.

Yes, in modern football we also have players that are more than capable of doing that, but today it’s all about speed and physical strength. In the “old days” when the ball would come to player with number 10 on his back whole stadium would stop breathing for 2-3 seconds. In those 2-3 seconds he would slow down his team action and then send excellent ball toward his attacker. Ball that would make a difference on the field and delirium on the stadium.

Riquelme is born on 24 June 1978 in San Fernando, Argentina. He started his career in Argentinos Juniors in 1992 and in 1995 he moves to Boca Juniors. Riquelme debut for Boca Juniors first team on 10 November 1996 in 2-0 win against Union de Santa Fe, two weeks later Riquelme scored his first goal for Boca in their 6-0 win over Club Atletico Huracan. In 2002 after seven season in Boca Juniors he got transferred to Barcelona for €11 Mill. Under the lead of Louis van Gaal Riquelme didn’t have a good time, he was mostly pushed on the wing where he couldn’t manage to shown his potential. After disappointed season he join Villarreal first on loan and then in 2005 Villarreal buy his contract. In 2007 he return to Boca Juniors first on loan and then in next season as full-time Boca Juniors player. In Boca Juniors Riquelme show some of best games in his career. Riquelme finished his career in a club where he started his career in Argentinos Juniors.

Riquelme was fantastic player that could make a difference on the pitch, but he didn’t show his full potential. Now in modern soccer we have some other number 10 players, players who favor more speed and strength over playmaking abilities. But this is some different soccer then what used to be.

By ScoresPro.com

Juan Roman Riquelme - Retirement of last real number 10

Neymar: Spanish authorities should ‘’punish’’ Cristiano Ronaldo

La Liga News:

In a surprising turn of events which unfolded after the World best player of the year saw a red card in Real Madrid’s 2-1 win against Cordoba, Neymar has come forward to make a demand which might cause riots in the Spanish capital.

Coming from Brazil to the Catalan giants and immediately becoming an opponent for his South American mate, Neymar has probably gone too far in his recent plea to the Spanish authorities in which he pleaded them to punish Cristiano Ronaldo severely.

Even though Neymar’s outburst isn’t characteristic of the Brazilian, the Portugese Ronaldo is finding himself in a predicament after his outburst against Cordoba on Saturday.

Match was level on 1-1 and Ronaldo was eager to break the deadlock, however, give credit to the defenders of the home side, the Portuguese lost his cool and smashed the Cordoba defender in the head to earn a straight red card.

Even though Carlo Ancelloti praised the Portuguese when the latter was departing from the ground, the former AC Milan manager might feel the heat in the coming weeks as his Real Madrid team looks set to go for at-least a 3-6 week period without their best player on the pitch.

Even though Neymar – who scored twice in Barcelona’s recent win against Elche – intended to give the Portuguese the benefit of doubt with his statement, he insisted that the Portuguese should be punished to stop such actions in the future.

‘’It happened to Zinedine Zidane, it happened to me. Nobody has the coolness to remain calm 100 per cent of the time. We must think with our heads. I think he should be punished.

‘It is the referee’s responsibility to protect players on the pitch, particularly when they are targeted by hard challenges. Hard tackles must be punished.’’

Even though Ronaldo immediately apologized in his twitter account after the match, the media frenzy surrounded the Portuguese after his act of shame on the pitch.

However, looking at the report which was given by the referee to LA LIGA authorities regarding the incident, Ronaldo might face the usual punishment of a red card and could escape any further punishment as the referee didn’t mentioned the incident fully in his post-match report.

by ScoresPro.com

Neymar: Spanish authorities should ‘’punish’’ Cristiano Ronaldo