French Open: Nadal and Djokovic through first round ties

Tennis Updates:

Rafael Nadal began his quest for a 10th French Open title with a straight-sets victory over teenager Quentin Halys. Frenchman Halys, an 18-year-old wildcard, had the Roland Garros crowd on his side but was not consistent enough to trouble the champion.

And 6th seed Nadal, 28, won 6-3 6-3 6-4 in an hour and 50 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier.

The Spaniard is in the same half of the draw as top seed Novak Djokovic, who beat Jarkko Nieminen 6-2 7-5 6-2.

Djokovic, 28, has now won 23 matches in a row as he bids to claim his first title at Roland Garros and become the 8th man to complete the career Grand Slam.

He was given a useful workout by Finland’s Nieminen, the 33-year-old taking a surprise 5-2 lead in the second set.

That merely served to bring the best out of Djokovic, who won the next 9 games in a row to effectively seal victory.

He could meet Nadal – who has slipped down the world rankings during a disappointing clay-court season by his standards – as early as the quarter-finals.

Nadal took the first step in that direction, and improved his record at Roland Garros to 67 wins and 1 defeat, with a solid opening effort.

There were a few worried glances to coach Toni Nadal in the stand when one service game went against him in a scratchy first set, but the nine-time champion made just one error in the 2nd.

Halys, the US Open boys’ runner-up in 2014, showed enough flashes of talent to engage his home crowd with his forehand, drop shot and willingness to attack the net.

Nadal was restricted to a single break of serve in the 2nd and 3rd sets but it was all he needed to earn a second-round meeting with compatriot Nicolas Almagro.

“When I’ve had some up and downs during the season, it’s normal that can happen here,” said Nadal.

“I am trying to avoid that. I am here to try to play good tennis and give myself a chance to play well and compete for everything.

“My mentality and my goal is the same always.”

by ScoresPro.com

French Open: Nadal and Djokovic through first round ties

Bundesliga: Roberto Di Matteo is no longer coach for FC Schalke 04

Soccer News:

Roberto Di Matteo is no longer coach for FC Schalke 04. Club has confirmed this new on their web pages. Official news statement that Schalke 04 sport director Horst Heldt and Di Matteo had a meeting in which they analyze last season. As the results of that Roberto Di Matteo steps down as head coach.

Di Matteo survived only seven months on Schalke 04 bench

Di Matteo manages to survive in Gelsenkirchen for only seven month. In October Schalke 04 appointed Di Mateo as new head coach after terrible start of season from Jens Keller. At that point Schalke 04 was at 11 places in Bundesliga, kicked out from DFB Pokal and was close of getting eliminated from UEFA Champions League by Slovenia Champions NK Maribor. After appointing Di Matteo manages to consolidate Schalke 04 ranks and go into UEFA Champions’ League group stage. Schalke 04 was kick out from UEFA Champions League by Real Madrid. They lost first in Gelsenkirchen 0-2 but then almost had a miracle at Santiago Bernabeu where they won 4-3. In Bundesliga Schalke 04 at one time was 3^rd team in Bundesliga behind Bayern Munich and Wolfsburg, but bad results from March and April result with a league drop.

“I suggested my plan about the next season to the club but after several constructive talks I noticed that we don’t share the same opinion for the next season. Because of that I think it is in our best interest that everyone goes in their separated ways.”

 

In his career Di Matteo was coaching West Bromwich Albion, Chelsea and now Schalke 04. Unfortunately he never last long in WBA he gets fired after only six months, in Chelsea he manage to live for eight months and now in Schalke 04 seven months. Probably the biggest achievement in his coaching career was winning UEFA Champions League in season 2012 with Chelsea.

by ScoresPro.com

Photo by Daniel Kraski

Bundesliga: Roberto Di Matteo is no longer coach for FC Schalke 04

French Open: Sharapova opens with a win

Tennis Updates:

Maria Sharapova made a successful start to the defence of her French Open title with a 6-2 6-4 win over Kaia Kanepi from Estonia in the first round.

The 2nd-seeded Russian, 28, will now face compatriot Vitalia Diatchenko.

Former world number 2 and 2012 Wimbledon finalist Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland, seeded 14th, lost 6-2 3-6 6-1 to Annika Beck from Germany.

In the men’s draw, 4th seed Tomas Berdych reached round 2 by beating Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka 6-0 7-5 6-3.

The Czech, 29, is next scheduled to meet compatriot Radek Stepanek.

The biggest name to falter on day 2 so far is Spain’s Feliciano Lopez, with the 11th seed suffering a 6-3 7-6 (11-9) 6-3 defeat by Teymuraz Gabashvili.

Elsewhere in the women’s draw, Sabine Lisicki beat Monica Puig 6-3 6-2 while Roberta Vinci lost 4-6 6-4 6-1 to Alize Cornet.

Double Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka , who is seeded 27, marked her return to Roland Garros after missing last year’s event with a foot injury with a 6-2 6-1 win over Spain’s Maria-Teresa Torro-Flor.

French player Virginie Razzano stunned the crowd on the Suzanne Lenglen court by attempting to serve out for victory with an underarm serve.

The wildcard entry, 32, missed with the underarm 2nd serve to concede a double fault against Paraguayan qualifier Veronica Cepede Royg.

Razzano, who knocked out Serena Williams in 2012, recovered her poise to complete a 2-6 6-4 6-2 victory.

She said: “I wasn’t feeling that great today. I’m sorry, I spooned the ball over. That’s the baggage that I carry.”

The shot revived memories of Michael Chang’s underarm service in a 4th-round victory over Ivan Lendl in 1989 before Chang went on to take the title and become the youngest ever winner of the Roland Garros title at just 17.

Japanese teenager Nishioka was unable to make an impact on the court with his tennis but the 19-year-old made an impression with his dapper shorts, sporting the sort of patterns usually seen on a golf course. Hoping for a first victory on the Parisian clay, the qualifier was overwhelmed by his big-hitting opponent.

Berdych secured the first set in 27 minutes and Nishioka’s resistance only slightly improved thereafter, giving the fourth seed his 10th victory on clay this year. What is more, the 2010 semi-finalist won 82% of his first service points and will now prepare to face Stepanek, who beat Ivan Dodig 5-7 6-3 6-4 6-1.

by ScoresPro.com

French Open: Sharapova opens with a win

NBA Rumors: Alvin Gentry a candidate for the coach job in New Orleans

Basketball, NBA News:

The New Orleans Pelicans were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Golden State Warriors, and that led to the firing of their coach. The latest reports are that former Phoenix Suns head-coach and current Golden State Warriors assistant-coach, Alvin Gentry is a strong candidate for the open managerial position with the Pelicans. Even though it is very likely that he will an NBA Championship this season, Gentry still has a desire to be a head-coach of his own team.

The latest rumors circulating around the media are the following:

“He’s more than interested. He really believes that this is a job that would certainly define him as a coach because of the opportunity that it creates. Certainly this is one of those jobs that you feel is probably as god as any job available right now, no question. Even if there were no other jobs, it would still be the best.”

Indeed, the coaching job at the New Orleans Pelicans is a very good one, as the team has all that it takes to improve. Anthony Davis is on the roster, and while he has been a beast this season, there is no doubt that he will be even better in the next campaign. Furthermore, under the right guidance, the rest of team can vastly improve.

The latest reports are that on 18th May, the New Orleans Pelicans received a permission to interview Gentry. It will be very interesting if the current assistant-coach of the Warriors decides to take the job in New Orleans. He is a very capable coach that has the skills to bring out the best from Anthony Davis.

By ScoresPro.com

NBA Rumors: Alvin Gentry a candidate for the coach job in New Orleans

Louis van Gaal confirmed that United will not offer Falcao permanent contract once his loan from AS Monaco ends

Soccer News:

Manchester United confirmed today that they will not go ahead with signing Falcao on permanent basis. Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal told MUTV that they will not offer Falcao permanent contract and once his loan from Monaco end he will go back to France.

“Falcao is a top professional and a good human being. On behalf of myself and everyone at the club I would like to wish him well for the future”

29 years old Colombia striker join Manchester United last year on loan from Monaco, media then speculated that this could be the biggest transfer in the soccer history. But after only 12 months Manchester United is returning Falcao back to Monaco. Falcao started his career in River Plata (Argentina), for River Plata he played 93 games and scored 36 goals. In 2009 for 5.5 million euros he moved to FC Porto and stay with them for 2 years. He starts to shine there and scored 72 goals from 87 appearances and in August 2011 Atletico Madrid bought him for 40 million euros. Falcao stayed in Madrid for two years and again have superb statistic, 70 goals from 90 games. With Atletico Madrid he won Europa League (2011/2012) and UEFA Super Cup (2013). In 2013 Monaco was building super team that would rule the Europe soccer scene and they need a superb striker, they got extra-class striker for 60 million euros. But Falcao didn’t impress anyone in his first season for Monaco; he scored 13 goals from 23 games. Louis van Gaal sign Falcao and hope that Colombian could give him goals and points, but at the end Falcao had disappointing season probably the worst in his career. He played 29 games for Manchester United and scores only 4 goals. With this statement from Louis van Gaal we can only guess that hunt for Falcao is official open.

by ScoresPro.com

Louis van Gaal confirmed that United will not offer Falcao permanent contract once his loan from AS Monaco ends

Transfer Rumors: Jose Mourinho urge Petr Czech to stay in Chelsea while Arsenal and Manchester United are waiting in line for buying him

Soccer News:

Petr Czech is without doubt legend of Chelsea, but this season Jose Mourinho didn’t give him much chance between the posts. With only 32 years on his back Czech is still able to do on world-class scale and not on the bench.

Arsenal and Manchester United first in line for Czech

Because of that there were a lot of rumors that linked Czech with various clubs Arsenal and Manchester United in first place. Arsenal is searching for a goalkeeper for a long time now and Manchester United would love to see Czech if De Gea leaves the club. Recently Jose Mourinho has urge Petr Czech to stay in the club, according to Jose Mourinho Chelsea would not won a title if it wasn’t for him. If we know something about Jose Mourinho that is when he starts praising some player that actually means players is going to leave the club soon. Czech was standard Chelsea goalkeeper for more than 10 years; he arrived in Chelsea in 2004 from Rennes for 13 million euros. For Chelsea Czech has made over 400 appearances in those 12 years and won four Premiership titles, UEFA Champions League and Europa League title. It’s less likely that Czech will stay in Chelsea in the next season, especial with such a good season for Courtois behind him. Young Belgium will probably be options number one for Jose Mourinho in the next season also. Arsene Wenger and his Arsenal are having goalkeeper problem for a long time and with Czech they would finally get good and trusted goalkeeper, the only questions is will Jose Mourinho allow that his goalkeeper go in ranks of direct Premiership opponent.

by ScoresPro.com

Transfer Rumors: Jose Mourinho urge Petr Czech to stay in Chelsea while Arsenal and Manchester United are waiting in line for buying him

Roger Federer to go for the title at the French Open

Tennis Updates:

Undeniably, there are 2 distinct sounds when Roger Federer appears on the courts of Roland Garros. One is the pop of backhands and forehands kicking up puffs of red clay. The other, getting ever louder, is the scratchy tick of life’s clock.

At age 33, with 34 bearing down in August, time is increasingly the enemy to Federer’s quest to add to his already record haul of Grand Slam titles.

The count climbed to 17 with his seventh win at Wimbledon in 2012, when he was still a young 30-year-old. Then, abruptly, it stopped. In Federer’s golden spell from 2004-2009, there were 24 Grand Slam finals. Federer played in 20 of them, winning 14. But since his 2012 Wimbledon win against Andy Murray, just one of the 10 subsequent Grand Slam finals featured the Swiss: an epic five-setter lost to Novak Djokovic last year.

Of all places for Federer to prove that he still has another major title in him, Roland Garros would seem the least favorable. The slow red dust blunts nuances of his game so effective on other, faster surfaces. Having one of the sharpest tactical minds and best right hands tennis has ever seen were never quite enough for Federer at the only major he’s not won multiple times. He needed a sprinkling of luck, too. Federer’s only victory at the French Open, in five finals, came in 2009 against Robin Soderling, who did him the favor of taking ”King of Clay” Rafael Nadal out of the picture in the fourth round.

Good fortune, in the shape of Maria Sharapova’s fingers, is smiling on Federer again this year. The defending women’s champion, called upon to pluck out the seeded men’s names in Friday’s draw, delivered a road map that could hardly be more favorable for Federer.

Sixth-seeded Nadal and third-seeded Murray were both drawn in the half of top-seeded Djokovic. That means second-seeded Federer would only have to play, at most, one of those infernal three who beat him at the semifinal or final stage of majors in 2013 and 2014. And such a blockbuster match could only happen in the June 7 final, if Federer gets that far.

”There is a chance to go very deep,” he acknowledged. ”How deep remains to be seen depending on the level of play.”

Federer opens his 62nd consecutive Grand Slam campaign, extending his record, on Sunday against a qualifier. In the women’s championship, last year’s losing finalist Simona Halep, seeded three, opens against Evgeniya Rodina, ranked 91. The 2008 champion Ana Ivanovic plays Yaroslava Shvedova, quarterfinalist in 2010 and 2012.

Federer has a relatively easy-looking path until the fourth round, where he could meet 13th-seeded Gael Monfils before a potential quarterfinal against his Davis Cup Swiss teammate Stan Wawrinka, seeded eight. In the semifinals, a possible meeting with either Japan’s Kei Nishikori, seeded five, or fourth-seeded Tomas Berdych looms.

”I feel like I have had a great last 12 months,” Federer said. ”I’ve just got to make sure I adjust my game according to the playing conditions here, and then we will see how far it takes me.”

by ScoresPro.com

Roger Federer to go for the title at the French Open

Silvio Berlusconi is offering Carlo Ancelotti task to rebuild AC Milan for 150 million euros if he gets fired from Real Madrid

Soccer News:

According to many sources Carlo Ancelotti is ex-coach for Real Madrid and everyone is waiting official club statement from the club to make those rumors true. According to Italian papers Ancelotti is offer a job in AC Milan. Berlusconi is offering Carlo Ancelotti task to rebuild AC Milan and bring old glory back on San Siro.

Berlusconi thinking to spend 150 million euros for new players in summer

Apparently Ancelotti had a meeting with Real Madrid president Perez and they agree to end Ancelotti contract by mutual consent. This will make Ancelotti free agent and Berlusconi could hire Ancelotti one more time. If Ancelotti get back on San Siro this will be his second time he will be coaching AC Milan. In his first try he was coaching AC Milan from 2001 until 2009, with AC Milan he win two UEFA Champions Leagues (2002/3; 2006/7), two times UEFA Super Cup (2003; 2007), FIFA Club World Cup (2007), Seria A (2003/4), Coppa Italia (2002/3) and Supercoppa Italiana (2004). Total eight major trophies but what was more important is that he brings AC Milan back on “Europe soccer map”. But a lot will depend on ability of AC Milan president Berlusconi to explain Ancelotti why he should get back to AC Milan. No matter that he didn’t win any trophies this season, many clubs would like to see Ancelotti on their bench and Berlusconi don’t have much to offer. Two rounds before the end AC Milan is on 11^th place in Seria A without any chances to get place that lead in some European competition. Italian media suggest that Berlusconi will go in major overhaul of AC Milan at the end of this season and he need coach that he can trust. Berlusconi said several times that he is not for comebacks but with Ancelotti is different. We will see if Ancelotti share Berlusconi vision of “New AC Milan”.

by ScoresPro.com

Photo by Doha Stadium Plus

Silvio Berlusconi is offering Carlo Ancelotti task to rebuild AC Milan for 150 million euros if he gets fired from Real Madrid

Andy Murray hoping on help from Mauresmo

Tennis Updates:

Andy Murray is hoping some home help in the face of his coach Amelie Mauresmo can boost his hopes of winning a first French Open title.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s opening skirmishes at Roland Garros in the year’s second Grand Slam tournament the 28-year-old Briton said that the 2-time Grand Slam winner could be an asset in Paris.

“Aside from the tennis, she’s helped with a few good restaurant choices near the hotel which has been good,” he said.

“But yeah, for me that’s one of the benefits of working with a player that’s just played in the slams and done well in the slams.

“Amelie obviously put a lot of pressure on herself, which probably wasn’t beneficial for her performances and she can obviously give me advice and input based on her experiences of playing in these tournaments.”

It was during last year’s French Open that Murray announced, to great surprise, that he was choosing Mauresmo to be his new coach. What is more, to date their collaboration has been met with mixed reviews with Murray failing to defend his Wimbledon title but finishing the year strongly before reaching the final of the Australian Open in January.

Since then Mauresmo has announced she is expecting her first child, prompting Murray to ask Swede Jonas Bjorkman to help out with the coaching duties in between times. This will be their first Grand Slam tournament together.

Murray comes into Paris on the back of the best clay court form he has shown during his career.

Without a single title win on the surface before this year, he won back-to-back tournaments at Munich and Madrid, defeating Rafael Nadal in straight sets in the final of the latter.

Later, he won his 1st round tie in Rome to take his unbeaten run to 10 matches before wisely deciding to pull out of the tournament and give his body and mind a good rest before the Paris campaign.

“It’s probably the best I’ve played on clay, for sure,” he said despite having reached the semi-finals in Paris last year.

“I mean I never felt particularly comfortable on the surface. In the past I have not really known what was happening on the court and felt like I was struggling with my movement. Whereas this year it doesn’t feel like that.

“I feel like I’m moving well. I feel a lot freer on the court. Body feels good. That’s positive.”

Murray opens against a qualifier and has a reasonably benign path through to the quarter-finals where David Ferrer, who he has never beaten on clay, is a potential opponent.

In case of success there he could go up against the winner of a potential last-8 blockbuster between title-holder Nadal and top seed Novak Djokovic.

That prospect could work both ways for him, he believes.

“If they play a five-hour marathon, then whoever plays them in the semis is happy about that,” he said.

“But if either one of them goes on the court and crushes the other one, they can be pretty confident going into the semi-finals as well.

“Just have to wait and see.”

by ScoresPro.com

Andy Murray hoping on help from Mauresmo

Soccer Rumors: Manchester United interested in signing Schweinsteiger

Soccer News and Rumors:

Even though Manchester United finished in the top four of the Barclay’s Premier League table, if all rumors are true, we will see some pretty new faces next season. The Red Devils already reached an agreement with PSV Eindhoven’s young star Memphis Depay, and the club is continuing to monitor and talk with another player. Dani Alves will most likely join United in the summer, and the team will also look to add Bastian Schweinsteiger. The Red Devils will look to take advantage of the fact that the midfielder hasn’t renewed his contract with Bayern Munich.

“I am in no hurry to renew,” stated Schweinsteiger in an interview. “It is not something that bothers me because I have a year left before it expires. The important thing is that my physical problems and injuries are resolved. The rest will follow.”

It won’t be easy for Manchester United to lure the German midfielder, as he hasn’t said anything about wanting to leave Bayern Munich. However, if the Red Devils find a way to sign him, they will definitely receive a very quality midfielder that can control possession and defend pretty good. Michael Carrick has been the player which was supposed to do that at Manchester United, but he has shown inconsistency throughout the current season.

Furthermore, it will be very interesting to see which players from the current roster will leave the club, as United will definitely have to sell some stars in order to sign new ones. Nevertheless, it will be worth to unload some players if they can find a way to lure Schweinsteiger. He is a born winner, proving it numerous times by leaving everything on the pitch. The Red Devils will become very strong title contenders in the Premier League next season if they can sign the players they want.

ScoresPro.com

Soccer Rumors: Manchester United interested in signing Schweinsteiger

Transfer Rumors: Cristiano Ronaldo to Paris Saint-Germain for 125 million euros

Soccer News:

Lately Spain media, especial ones that are privileges to Real Madrid are writing a lot on subject who will be a new coach for Real Madrid. Almost all of them have inside information that say Carlo Ancelotti will be Real Madrid ex-coach at the end of this season. But that is not the only inside information that media have, lately they have written about possibility that two most expensive players leave Real Madrid.

Ronaldo to Paris Saint-Germain for 125 million euros

Current situation in Europe is like this, there are couples of clubs that don’t have money issues and that can spend big. One of them is Manchester United who would love to see Gareth Bale in their ranks for the next season. Paris Saint-Germain owners also think big, they want to make PSG one of best team in Europe and they are not afraid to spend. According to Spain media sources PSG might be able to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid. It’s not a secret that lately Ronaldo is not happy in Real Madrid, he is fighting with fans and teammates. But even if he is unhappy Ronaldo would like to stay in Real Madrid but under his conditions, he said a couple of times that he needs to speak with Real Madrid president before he made his decision. On the other hand Paris Saint-Germain is willing to send check on 125 million euros for Cristiano Ronaldo, with introduction of UEFA FFA (Financial Fair Play) that check could solve many problems about new players for Real Madrid. It’s less likely that Real Madrid would sell both of his stars Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo but in soccer everything is possible especial if you got the right amount of money.

by ScoresPro.com

 

Photo by Jan S0L0

Transfer Rumors: Cristiano Ronaldo to Paris Saint-Germain for 125 million euros

Murray says he is showing the best clay-court tennis of his career

Tennis Updates:

Andy Murray claims he is playing the best clay-court tennis of his career as he heads into the French Open. The Scot won his first title on the surface in Munich earlier this month and followed up with victory over Rafael Nadal in the Madrid Open final.

Murray, 28, is the 3rd seed at Roland Garros and will face qualifier Facundo Arguello of Argentina in round one.

“It’s probably the best I have played on clay, for sure,” said the Scot, twice a semi-finalist in Paris.

“I never really felt particularly comfortable on the surface. Sometimes by the time I got to the French Open I started to feel good, but obviously winning tournaments and beating good players helps with the confidence.

“I just feel like I have an idea of what I’m doing on the court. Sometimes in the past I have not really known what was happening on the court and felt like I was struggling with my movement.

“This year it doesn’t feel like that. I feel like I’m moving well. I feel a lot freer on the court, my body feels good. That’s positive.”

Murray is in the same half of the draw as 9-time champion Rafael Nadal and top seed Novak Djokovic, who could meet as early as the quarter-finals.

“I think Novak for me goes into the tournament as the favourite now,” said Murray.

“But on that court Rafa’s record is ridiculous. It’s completely possible that he gets out there and feels great, especially if he gets himself into the tournament and wins his first few matches.”

Murray is in Paris with French coach Amelie Mauresmo, who experienced the pressure of being a home favourite as a player but never made it past the quarter-finals in 15 attempts.

“For me, that’s one of the benefits of working with a player that’s just played in the slams and done well in the slams,” said Murray.

“They are also aware of the pressures and stuff that comes with trying to win an event like this.

“Amelie obviously put a lot of pressure on herself there, which probably wasn’t beneficial for her performances, and can obviously give me advice and input based on her experiences of playing in these tournaments.

“So it’s good to have experienced ex-players around I think at these times of year.”

by ScoresPro.com

Murray says he is showing the best clay-court tennis of his career

Xavi is saying goodbye to Barcelona this Saturday against Deportivo

Soccer News:

This Saturday on Nou Camp there will be a lot of mix feelings on one side Barcelona fans will be happy for their 23 Spain title and on other side they will be sad because one of club legends Xavi Hernandez is leaving the club. After 17 years player that change the face of both Barcelona and Spain national team is leaving Barcelona and will continue (end) his career in Qatar.

Xavi: It was time for a change

Today on press conference Xavi confirm all the speculations that were going about his leaving the club. He said that he will be leaving Barcelona and joining Qatar team Al Sadd with who he will sign two years contract.

“I am leaving the club at the end of the season. I made this decision with a heavy heart, it was not easy, but my family and I decide that it was time for a change. We are leaving to Qatar where I will sign two years contract for Al Sadd.”

In 17 years 764 games and 84 goals for Barcelona

Xavi début for Barcelona on 12 May 1998 against Southampton in friendly match, his competitive début was 18 August 1998 in Spain Super Cup final. Since then Xavi played total 764 games and score 84 goals for Barcelona. Xavi was a key role in Barcelona famous “tika-taka” play and he was known as player that has highest percent of successful passes. Xavi admits that Barcelona offer him contract for one more year but he said that he knows that he cannot give anymore 100% and it would not be fair to Barcelona.

“Barcelona offer mi contract until 2018, but I have to deny their offer because I made my decision about leaving earlier. I have played for 17 years in first team and now am time to say goodbye.”

There are rumors that Barcelona and Nike are preparing special goodbye shirt in which will Barcelona play against Deportivo, on the chest there will be a sign “Gracies Xavi” and date of his last game for Barcelona. Barcelona fans are also preparing something spectacular, there are little information’s about it but if we know Barcelona fans then we will be speechless.

by ScoresPro.com

Xavi is saying goodbye to Barcelona this Saturday against Deportivo

French Open: Edmund and Konta advance to the final round

Tennis Updates:

Britons Kyle Edmund and Jo Konta reached the final round of French Open qualifying with straight-sets wins. Edmund, the British number 4, managed to beat Romania’s former quarter-finalist Victor Hanescu 6-1 6-2.

British number 2 Konta overclassed 7th seed Elizaveta Kulichkova from Russia 7-6 (7-1) 6-3.

Brydan Klein lost 6-3 6-1 to Argentina’s Facundo Arguello and Naomi Broady went down 6-1 6-1 to Australian Anastasia Rodionova.

Edmund, 20, was classes over the 33-year-old Hanescu, who lost to Roger Federer in the quarter-finals in Paris 10 years ago.

The Yorkshireman broke serve 4 times as he dominated with his forehand to win in just 67 minutes.

“It was really good,” said Edmund, ranked at 121 in the world, 66 places higher than Hanescu.

“I went out there and really respected my opponent. He’s been around for a while and made the quarter-finals here, so he obviously can play well here and on clay.”

Edmund qualified for a Grand Slam for the first time in Australia at the start of the year, and will look to make it 2 in a row when he faces Spanish 12th seed Adrian Menendez-Maceiras on Friday.

“It would be great if I qualify,” added Edmund. “I want to be playing in the main draw of Slams, but the way I’m going to get there is by my game improving.

“Every day I’m just trying to get better. It’s not just about this tournament, it’s about where your game’s at in six months, in a year. You always want to get better and that’s what I’m focusing on.”

Konta, 24, had a fine win over highly-rated 19-year-old Kulichkova, who is ranked 34 places higher at 110.

“I’m really happy to get through that one,” said Konta, who missed out in the final round of qualifying last year.

“I’m trying not to look too far ahead, I just want to take it point by point, but I’m happy with how I’m hitting the ball, how I’m thinking and how I’m reacting to situations.”

Konta is scheduled to play France’s Clothilde de Bernardi, the world number 315, for a place in the main draw.

by ScoresPro.com

French Open: Edmund and Konta advance to the final round

Madison Keys beats Mirjana Lucic-Baroni, James Ward defeated by Christian Lindell

Tennis Updates:

Top-seeded American Madison Keys rallied from one set and 5-0 down to beat Mirjana Lucic-Baroni 4-6, 7-6 (3), 7-6 (0) and reach the quarterfinals of the Strasbourg International on Wednesday. On the brink of defeat, Keys took plenty of risks and the strategy paid off as Lucic-Baroni failed to serve out the match.

”I was definitely thinking that I would be heading to Paris,” where the French Open starts on Sunday, Keys said. ”Mirjana was playing well and I wasn’t playing great, and I was just really happy that I was able to find it and figure it out.”

Keys was more cautious in the tiebreaker of the 2nd set and took advantage of her Croatian opponent’s mistakes to seal it.

Lucic-Baroni missed her chance to serve out the match for a third time at 5-4 in the deciding set and her game collapsed in the tiebreaker.

”For sure, my mental toughness was important.” Keys said. ”Even at 5-0 I was trying hard and putting in all of my effort. My game was there, it was just a couple of points here or there that hadn’t been going my way. It was a battle to the very, very end, and I’m very relieved with this victory.”

Key’s next opponent is Kristina Mladenovic, who advanced past Alison Riske 7-6 (4), 6-2.

Russia’s Elena Vesnina also advanced with a 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 win over fourth-seeded Alize Cornet, with Virginie Razzano waiting for her in the next round after upsetting former French Open winner Francesca Schiavone 6-2, 6-3.

James Ward went out in the 2nd round of French Open qualifying with a three-set defeat by Sweden’s Christian Lindell.

The British number 3 was two points from victory in the second set but lost 3-6 7-6 (7-5) 6-2.

Compatriot Liam Broady went down 6-7 (5-7) 7-6 (7-2) 6-2 to Moldova’s Radu Albot in round one.

In the women’s draw, Jo Konta and Naomi Broady both won their first-round matches.

Konta, the British number two, beat Serb Jovana Jaksic 6-0 6-3, before Broady saw off Cagla Buyukakcay of Turkey 6-1 7-6 (7-4).

They will play their second-round matches on Thursday, along with fellow Britons Brydan Klein and Kyle Edmund in the men’s draw.

Ward, 28, made it through qualifying to the main draw last year and was seeded eighth in qualifying this time, but he let a winning position slip on a rain-interrupted day in Paris.

The Londoner twice led by a break in the second set only to hand the advantage straight back, and then could not convert from 5-5 in the tie-break.

Lindell, ranked 94 places lower at 200, grew stronger in the decider as his opponent faded, sealing victory at 8pm local time.

Andy Murray, Aljaz Bedene and Heather Watson have all qualified directly, with the draw to take place on Friday.

by ScoresPro.com

Madison Keys beats Mirjana Lucic-Baroni, James Ward defeated by Christian Lindell

Soderling looking for Nadal lose at French Open

Tennis Updates:

Robin Soderling is sick of being the answer to a favorite quiz question, the one which asks who is the only player to beat nine-times champion Rafael Nadal at the French Open. That is the reason why he will be happy if the Spaniard’s current vulnerability on his beloved claycourts continues when the tournament begins at Roland Garros this weekend.

Nadal boasts an incredible 66-1 record at the claycourt grand slam, stretching back to 2005 when he won the title on his debut, the only loss coming against Swede Soderling in 2009.

Soderling went on to reach the final, losing to Switzerland’s Roger Federer, and he made the final again a year later when Nadal took his revenge.

“It says a lot more about Rafa than it does about me,” Soderling, in an interview in the Daily Telegraph, said of his unique place in French Open folklore.

“It will never happen again, not in 100 years.

“It’s good to be the only one, but everybody is asking me about only that match. I am really proud of other things in my career: being in the top five, reaching the final of a grand slam twice. I’m actually even more proud of making it to the French Open final in 2010 than the previous year.

“So maybe it’s better if Rafa loses again, then everybody will stop asking me about it.”

Soderling’s four-set victory remains the only blot on Nadal’s French Open copybook, but as he prepares to try to win a record-extending 10th title, many believe his domination may be about to come to an end.

A succession of claycourt defeats in the build-up to the tournament have left world number one Novak Djokovic favorite to claim his first French Open title.

“This year, for the first time in a long time, Rafa is not the favorite,” said the 30-year-old Soderling whose career has been stalled by bouts of illness.

“Of course, it’s going to be tough to beat Rafa at Roland Garros, over five sets on clay. But I wouldn’t be surprised if it happened.”

by ScoresPro.com

Soderling looking for Nadal lose at French Open

Murray on his female coach Amelie Mauresm

Tennis Updates:

Andy Murray says he was “amazed” by the level of criticism his appointment of Amelie Mauresmo as coach attracted. The Scot, 28, became the first leading male player to employ a female coach when he hired the Frenchwoman.

“I knew it would be a big story at the beginning but I thought it would die down quicker than it has,” Murray said.

“I was very surprised at the amount of criticism she received for each loss I had. I couldn’t believe the negativity towards her personally.”

World number 3, Murray employed Mauresmo, who won 2 Grand Slam tournaments and 25 WTA titles, last June after previous coach Ivan Lendl quit 3 months earlier.

When the appointment was announced, Australian player Marinko Matosevic said he would never have a female coach because he did not rate the women’s game.

Murray told Red Bulletin magazine some of the negative comments he had heard were “an eye-opening experience for me”.

“I know a lot of the players were surprised because I do hear what goes on in the locker room,” he added.

“Some comments did make it into the press before it was officially announced, that some people thought it was a joke I was playing along with. To me, it’s amazing to hear that.”

The Briton says he has now “become very passionate about getting more women in sport, giving women more opportunities”.

He added: “I wasn’t thinking of it being a groundbreaking move or having an influence that could cross over into other sports. Then, after seeing the response to it, and some of the things that have been said, I can see it is.”

Asked whether he considered himself a feminist, Murray said: “I’m pro everyone being equal and if that’s being a feminist then you could say so, yes.

“It really opened my eyes when I started working with Amelie. Inequality is something I started to see and become passionate about. It’s opened my mind.”

After Murray’s mixed 2014 season following back surgery, his assistant coach Dani Vallverdu and fitness trainer Jez Green left his team having disagreed with his appointment of Mauresmo, 35.

The 2-time Grand Slam champion’s results in 2015 have been much improved so far as he reached the Australian Open final and won his first clay-court tournaments in Munich and Madrid.

What is more, he is unbeaten on clay going into the French Open, the 2nd Grand Slam of the year, which starts on Sunday.

Murray says he finds it easier to be open about his feelings when talking to women.

“Of course it depends on the person, but generally, when you get five or six men sitting at a table in a competitive environment, it’s not pleasant,” he said.

“I’ve found it difficult to open up sometimes as you feel judged or that it’s seen as a sign of weakness. Sometimes, when we’re competing and working out, trying to be macho, it can get a bit testosterone-fuelled. I’ve ended up having some big arguments.

“I don’t feel like I’m competing with Amelie. When we’re talking, it’s more of a collaboration.”

Swede Jonas Bjorkman recently joined Murray’s coaching team and will have a bigger role as the year progresses with Mauresmo preparing for the birth of her first child, which is due in August.

by ScoresPro.com

Murray on his female coach Amelie Mauresm

Soccer Rumors: Arsenal starts negotiations with Chelsea for Petr Cech

Soccer News and Rumors:

Petr Cech played too little for Chelsea throughout this season, and it was evident that he will leave the club at the end of the campaign. The latest rumors are that Arsenal has started negotiations with the Blues for the transfer of the veteran goalkeeper. According to the reports, Chelsea is ready to part ways with Cech for an amount around £10 million. Recently Jose Mourinho made a statement that if the 33-year-old goalkeeper doesn’t remain with the Blues he would like to see him play for a non-Premier League team. Nevertheless, it seems that it’s quite possible that won’t happen.

“I would never let him go,” said Mourinho. “But it’s not in my hands. My perfect scenario is that he stays with us, I think he belongs to this club, this club belongs to his history and to his life, too.”

Paris Saint-Germain has also been monitoring Petr Cech throughout the season, but the fact that the goalkeeper doesn’t wish to leave England could be a serious problem for the French team. If Arsenal reaches a deal with Chelsea, the Gunners will receive a veteran player with a lot of good years ahead of him. Furthermore, Arsene Wenger will finally get a goalkeeper that is confident in his abilities between the posts. The current players occupying the post, David Ospina nad Wojciech Szczesny, have showed decent skills during this campaign, but they have just been too inconsistent.

For Arsenal to close the gap between them and Chelsea, they will definitely need Petr Cech to join them in the summer. The 33-year-old could quickly become the leader that the Gunners have lacked in the last couple of seasons.

ScoresPro.com

Soccer Rumors: Arsenal starts negotiations with Chelsea for Petr Cech

Transfer Rumors: Pogba will go to PSG only if they triple his current salary and Guardiola see Sterling as ideal replacement for Ribery

Soccer News:

Summer transfer window is getting closer and one of best buys in this summer will be two young players Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba and Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling. For both players there are already a lot of rumors, where will they continue their careers.

Pogba in Paris Saint-Germain only if his wage is more than Ibrahimovic

For young Juventus midfielder there are already a huge line behind them Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United and City, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain. And according to some sources PSG have the best chance of getting Paul Pogba into their ranks. The only problem for signing Pogba PSG might have in FFP (Financial Fair Play), but we doubt that Qatar owners would have anything to pay little more just to sign Pogba. Recently interesting facts has been revile about Pogba and PSG. According to them Pogba will be looking to have at least three times bigger wage than he have now in Juventus.  Currently Pogba wage is around 4 to 5 million euros, if those rumors are true that would mean he is looking for more than 12 million euros per year. Currently only one player has that kind of wage in PSG and that is Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Guardiola looks at Sterling and see Ribery replacement

Raheem Sterling don’t have problems with wage, his currently problem is UEFA Champions League. Liverpool is without UEFA Champions League in next season and Sterling is eager to play in it. We cannot compare Pogba and Sterling situation. While Pogba have a contract with Juventus until 2019, Sterling contracts ends 2017 and Liverpool will be looking to sell him player who already denied new contract. In the first row to sign Sterling were Premiership clubs Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea. But recently rumors has spread that Bayern Munich have the biggest chances of signing Sterling. According to some German sources Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola already send his brother in England hoping to negotiate terms with the player. Guardiola thinks that Sterling will be ideal replacement for Franck Ribery who got trouble with injuries.

by ScoresPro.com

Transfer Rumors: Pogba will go to PSG only if they triple his current salary and Guardiola see Sterling as ideal replacement for Ribery

Pars Saint-Germain has the biggest player wages in sports and NFL has the most average spectators per game

Soccer News:

Recently we write about Barcelona impossibility to follow new standards in player wages that Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea are putting.  So let’s see how much players earn or maybe better to say how much clubs are spending on player wages.

Paris Saint-Germain has the biggest wages

If you ask any soccer fans what club in the world spent most on players’ wages you would probably get answer like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Chelsea or Manchester City. In that survey Paris Saint-Germain would probably have around 1% of votes, but Paris Saint-Germain is the club with highest wages in world of sport. ESPN and Sport Intelligence made a survey in the world of sport and according to them Paris Saint-Germain has the best wages in sports. According to them Paris Saint-Germain spend around 9.08 million dollars each year on player wages, behind him is Real Madrid with 8.64 million dollars. On third place is Manchester City with 8.59 million dollars and new Spain Champions (and maybe UEFA Champions League) Barcelona is on 4^th place with 8.08 million dollars. In top 10 there are only two clubs that are not coming from soccer on 5^th place Los Angeles Dodgers (Baseball, USA) 8.023 million dollars and New York Yankees (Baseball, USA)on 9^th place with 7.3 million dollars.

Spain players earn the most

They also made statistical earing for each national team that played on recent FIFA World Cup in Brazil. According to them Spain national players have the best wages with average 7.1 million dollars per year. Current FIFA World Cup Champions Germany is on 2^nd place with 6.6 million dollars average. On 3^rd place is team that always goes with high expectation on each World Cup or European Championship but almost always experience a debacle – England with 6 million dollars.

NFL has the most spectators

The only things were soccer is not on first place is average spectators per game. Maybe because of the “short” season or small amount of games but American National Football League (NFL) have the most spectators per game 68 766 spectators watch NFL games. Behind them is Germany Bundesliga with 43 500 spectators, England Premiership is on 3^rd with 36 695 spectators.

by ScoresPro.com

 

Pars Saint-Germain has the biggest player wages in sports and NFL has the most average spectators per game

Soccer Rumors: Gareth Bale doesn't wish to continue his career with Real Madrid

Soccer News and Rumors:

As all of the seasons are coming to their ends, the transfer rumors are starting to heat up at a very fast pace. The latest one will definitely be a good one for Manchester United and other clubs in the Premier League, as there are reports that Gareth Bale no longer wishes to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu. It has been said that the Welshman wishes to return in the Premier League and play for an elite team. He will have no shortage of options, as the Red Devils, Chelsea and Manchester City have all shown interest in the wing.

These reports of Bale wanting to leave Real Madrid are based on the facts that he rarely receives passes from his teammates and that he doesn’t wish to continue playing at the wing position. The Welshman had a decent season, scoring thirteen goals and dishing out nine assists in 31 matches throughout the campaign. He has been booed by the fans of the club a bit too often, and everybody has blamed him for the fact that Real Madrid didn’t win any trophies this season. It can’t be denied that Bale didn’t play as good as he did last year, but it’s a bit harsh to state that he is the main reason the Whites didn’t win anything. He is one of the reasons, but not the only one.

However, I don’t see Bale leaving Real Madrid during the upcoming summer transfer window. The Whites have invested too much money in him, and it’s doubtful that they will let him go for less than £85 million. As a result, it’s more likely than not, that the will see Gareth Bale playing in a Real Madrid uniform once again in the next season.

ScoresPro.com

Soccer Rumors: Gareth Bale doesn't wish to continue his career with Real Madrid

Maria Sharapova triumphs with Italian Open title

Tennis Updates:

3rd seed Maria Sharapova, from Russia, came from a set down to beat Spain’s Carla Suarez Navarro 4-6 7-5 6-1 and win her 3rd Italian Open title. Suarez Navarro, the world number 10, battled hard in the first 2 sets but ran out of energy in the decider. What is more, her best chance came at 5-5 in the 2nd set but Sharapova finished the set with 8 straight points.

The Russian capitalized on her opponent’s weakness in the 3rd set as she swept to a 35th career crown.

Suarez Navarro, who was bidding for the 2nd title of her career, made a strong start and broke Sharapova midway through the first set as the Russian tried to force matters.

The Spaniard continued to cause problems in the 2nd set but once Sharapova found her way into the match she looked strong, despite committing plenty of unforced errors.

Sharapova, who will be second seed for the French Open which starts on 24 May, broke Suarez Navarro in the eighth game of the second set for a 5-3 lead and after going on to hand her opponent three break points in the next game, she eventually recovered to level the match.

The Russian handed Suarez Navarro a break point in the opening game of the third set and despite twice saving the game, the Spaniard moved ahead when Sharapova hit an easy return just wide.

That setback only served to spur the Russian on, who broke back immediately, sealing the game with a two-handed backhand return. From then on she dominated, holding serve on her final game to seal the victory.

Sharapova admitted she had too many errors in the opening set and beginning of the second, but said: “I thought the errors I was making… were really close. I felt like I was doing the right thing and I’m glad I gave myself a chance to cut those down.

“She’s a really all-around player who can step in, can step back. She was really far behind the baseline and I feel like I took advantage of that.

“I felt that I was the fresher one, felt like I was more aggressive.”

“Late in the third set I wasn’t there, I hadn’t prepared enough to be ready. To see where I was physically in the third set today was a huge difference against someone who can withstand a very long match,” added the Russian.

“That give me a lot of confidence. I’ve come a long way physically in the last few weeks. But it’s taken a lot of mental and physical work to get to this stage.”

Maria Sharapova vs Carla Suarez Navaro, 17/05/2015, 11:40 GMT, Match Center

Maria Sharapova triumphs with Italian Open title

Italian Open: Djokovic and Sharapova to play in the finals

Tennis Updates:

Novak Djokovic overcame his unhappiness about the court conditions to beat Spain’s David Ferrer 6-4 6-4 and reach the Italian Open final. The top seed raised his game at key points in both sets to earn the breaks.

However, the Serb complained to the umpire in the 2nd set about the conditions on the clay at the Foro Italico.

Djokovic is scheduled to face either Stan Wawrinka or Roger Federer in Sunday’s final with the Swiss pair due to play their semi-final at 19:00 BST.

The world number 1 broke the clay court specialist early in the opening set.

Ferrer battled hard to break Djokovic’s service in a thrilling sixth game of the second set where advantage switched hands several times before the Spaniard sent a backhand return out.

Ferrer’s chances of making the Italian Open final appeared to dip as Djokovic broke in the ninth game to take a 5-4 lead and then serve out for the win.

Djokovic is now on track for his fourth Rome title, having won his third in the space of six years in 2014 when he stopped Rafael Nadal from claiming an eighth crown in the Italian capital.

Spanish 10th seed Carla Suarez Navarro will meet Maria Sharapova in Sunday’s Italian Open final in Rome.

Suarez Navarro managed to beat second seed Simona Halep 2-6 6-3 7-5 for a 4tth win out of four against the Romanian.

Sharapova, the two-time Rome champion, overcame Australia-based Russian Daria Gavrilova 7-5 6-3.

The victory, combined with Halep’s loss, means Sharapova will be second seed for the French Open which starts on 24 May.

Suarez Navarro is the form player on the WTA Tour this year with 31 wins and will be seeking her second career title against Sharapova.

Nevertheless, she was 2 points away from losing in the 10th game of the final set before snatching the win.

The Barcelona-based 26-year-old needed seven set points to close out the second set and 3 to end the 3rd.

Sharapova had lost to Gavrilova in their only previous meeting in Miami in March and the qualifier, ranked 78 in the world, put in a spirited performance this time around again in the early stages. But she suffered an abdominal muscle injury and needed to leave the court for treatment late in the first set.

Despite being hampered by the injury, Gavrilova raised her game at the start of the second set and broke her opponent early to go 3-1 up.

But Sharapova regained her composure and her range to reach the final.

She leads Suarez Navarro 3-1 in their head-to-head encounters but Sunday’s decider will be their first meeting on clay.

by ScoresPro.com

Italian Open: Djokovic and Sharapova to play in the finals

Italian Open: Federer and Djokovic reach semifinals

Tennis Updates:

Roger Federer kept up his pursuit of the elusive Italian Open title with a 6-3, 6-3 win over sixth-seeded Tomas Berdych on Friday to reach the semifinals of the clay-court tournament. Along with Monte Carlo, Rome is one of only two Masters series titles that the 17-time Grand Slam champion has never won.

Federer will next face either seven-time Rome champion Rafael Nadal or eigth-seeded Stan Wawrinka, who were playing in the night session at the Foro Italico.

Top-ranked Novak Djokovic, meanwhile, was pushed to three sets for the third consecutive match in a 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 win over fifth-seeded Kei Nishikori. The defending champion was also pushed the distance by Nicolas Almagro and Thomaz Bellucci in his opening two matches. Still, he extended his winning streak to 20 matches.

Djokovic let out a loud roar and threw his arms forward in a windmill action when he broke Nishikori’s serve early in the third set to take control.

Djokovic’s semifinal opponent will be seventh-seeded David Ferrer, who beat David Goffin of Belgium 6-2, 4-6, 6-3.

In women’s action, second-seeded Simona Halep routed qualifier Alexandra Dulgheru 6-1, 6-0 in an all-Romanian matchup. Halep will next face 10th-seeded Carla Suarez Navarro of Spain, who eliminated last week’s Madrid Open champion Petra Kvitova 6-3, 6-2.

Under overcast skies with some rain drops falling briefly, Federer fell behind a break midway through the first set but recovered it immediately and cruised from there.

”From the baseline I was playing very well.” Federer said. ”My serve was not quite there from the beginning. I was hitting too many second serves and he was able to take advantage of that and break early. So it was important to pick it up on the serve, which is maybe the easiest thing to do.”

”I felt good again on the return and (was) moving well, so as the match went on I got better and better,” he added. ”The wind picked up in the second set – that’s when I think Tomas didn’t play so well anymore and I was able to get the job done.”

Perhaps fatigued from his three-set win over Fabio Fognini a day earlier, Berdych struggled to get his first serve in and rarely pushed Federer into long rallies.

Berdych attempted to take the initiative while serving at 3-4 in the first set but Federer produced a spectacular backhand cross-court passing shot with a flip of his wrist that left the Czech player looking on in admiration.

”I’m hitting my backhand quite well at the moment,” Federer said.

by ScoresPro.com

Italian Open: Federer and Djokovic reach semifinals

Men's EHF Cup: Fuchse Berlin - HSV Hamburg 30-27 (16-13), First international title for Fuchse Berlin

Men’s EHF Cup Final Four:

In the final game of Men’s EHF Cup Fuchse Berlin manage to win their first European title, in a good game Fuchse young guns Paul Drux and Fabian Wiede win the trophy for their team.

Fuchse Berlin (GER) vs. HSV Hamburg (GER) 30-27 (16-13)

First time in history home team manage to win Men’s EHF Cup, backed up by 8 000 home fans Fuchse manage to win their first international trophy. Fuchse better open the game and took the early lead 6-3 with 4 goals from their Russian right-back Konstantin Igropulo. But HSV quickly manage to get back and with 4 quick goals they took the lead 7-6. Fuchse tried to stop HSV changing their defense but that didn’t do much. In 19’ first shock for HSV, their defense specialist Davor Dominikovic gets a shoulder injury and had to be carried to the hospital. Without Dominikovic HSV defense concept fall apart and Fuchse quickly take the opportunity and scored 9 goals in nine minutes and get to 15-10. HSV manage to get their ranks and get on -3 on the halftime. Second half start with strong defense battles from each side. But Igropulo was unstoppable for HSV players and Fuchse manage to get on 5 goals advantage one more time. Fuchse had several opportunities to close the game but HSV goalkeeper Johannes Bitter didn’t allow that. In 24’ HSV manage to equal the score it was 21-21. In the last 15’ minutes we saw how Fuchse two young players Fabian Wiede and Paul Drux holding Fuchse in the game and at the end wining the finals.

Mahe couldnt win the game alone for HSV

Russian right-back Igropulo (6) and Nenadic (6) were the best scorers for the winner while Mahe with 10 goals was unstoppable at HSV. Unfortunately for HSV they didn’t have one more player that could help Mahe in this game.

by ScoresPro.com

 

Men's EHF Cup: Fuchse Berlin - HSV Hamburg 30-27 (16-13), First international title for Fuchse Berlin

EHF Cup Final Four: Fuchse Berlin and HSV Hamburg will battle for the EHF Cup trophy

Men’s EHF Cup Final Four:

This weekend in Berlin we got Final Four of EHF Cup playing. Four clubs that manage to get into the final four are RK Gorenje Velenje (SLO), Fuchse Berlin (GER), Skjern Handbold (Den) and HSV Hamburg (GER). In semi-finals game today we found out which two clubs will be playing for the title.

Skjern Handbold (DEN) vs. HSV Hamburg (GER) 23 – 27 (11 – 14)

First two teams on the court were Skjern and HSV. HSV was dominating from the start of the game and quickly they manage to get 4 goals lead (7-3). At that point Skjern was making much unforced mistakes in attack and Hansen and Mahe were punishing them. HSV got a chance at score 12-7 to close the game but then Skjern goalkeeper Soren Pedersen wake up and soon Skjern was only 2 goals behind (10-12).  HSV started strong in second half and mostly thanks to their goalkeeper Bitter they manage to get 6 goals lead 20-14. From that point HSV close the game safely and didn’t allow Skjern to get any closer to them. For HSV Mahe (6) and Herbst (5) were best scorers, while Mikkelsen (5) and Rasmussen (5) was best Skjern scorers.

RK Gorenje Velenje (SLO) vs. Fuchse Berlin (GER) 24 – 27 (12 – 16)

In second game home team Fuchse Berlin was looking to book their ticket into the final game tomorrow. Fuchse need 20 min to make some advantage against Velenje. Start of the game was mostly played goal by goal; Fuchse was scoring from penalty shots while Velenje was returning from distance shots. In 20’ Fuchse goalkeeper Silvio Heinevetter took the matter in his hands and with several defenses allow his teammates to go on +5 (15-10). In second half Heinevetter continue with his superb performance and Fuchse soon manage to get 6 goals lead (18-12). Velenje tried to get back into the game with some player rotation but Heinevetter didn’t allow that to happen. Fuchse got a chance to finish the game in 53’ at the results 25-20 for them, but they failed and with some quick goals from Velenje in last two minutes score was 26-24 for Fuchse. But Velenje didn’t have strength to make a full comeback. For Velenje Dujmovic with 5 goals was the best scorer, Peterson (7) and Igropulo (6) were leading Fuchse attacks.

Fuchse and HSV for the title

So on tomorrow schedule at 14:30 will be game for 3^rd place between RK Gorenje Velenje and Skjern Handbold and at 17:30 final game will start between Fuchse Berlin and HSV Hamburg.

by ScoresPro.com

EHF Cup Final Four: Fuchse Berlin and HSV Hamburg will battle for the EHF Cup trophy

Soccer News: Atletico Madrid to offer Griezmann and Koke new contracts

Soccer News and Rumors:

Even though a lot of transfer rumors have surrounded two of Atletico Madrid’s stars, Antoine Griezmann and Koke, the possibility of them staying with their current club is pretty big. The latest reports are that the management of Atletico will offer new contracts to both players, which will also increase the amount of their buyout clauses. The club that has shown a lot of interested towards the two stars is Chelsea and it’s very likely that they will organize a massive summer campaign in order to lure at least one of the players to the Stamford Bridge.

Even if Atletico Madrid can’t get the players to sign new deals, it’s not one hundred percent sure that they will leave the team. In a recent interview, in which he was asked about his future, Koke stated that he wishes to remain playing at the Vicente Calderon and remain a part of Atletico Madrid. The midfielder has been the heart and soul of the Spanish club in the last couple of years, and it will be a big blow for the team if he decides to leave. Nevertheless, that’s very unlikely to happen.

However, the situation with Antoine Griezmann is a bit different. The French international has performed above expectations throughout the current season – scoring 22 goals in Primera Division. Nevertheless, Griezmann hasn’t yet made any comments regarding his future and whether he wishes to remain at the Vicente Calderon. Furthermore, there have been a lot of reports that the wing even wishes to leave Atletico and join a bigger European club.

The upcoming summer will be a very important one for Atletico Madrid, as they will have the hard task to try and keep the team as intact as possible. Nevertheless, it won’t be easy as a lot of big clubs will be offering “big money” contracts to their player.

ScoresPro.com

Soccer News: Atletico Madrid to offer Griezmann and Koke new contracts

Barcelona is aware that they might lose Messi, Suarez or Neymar because they cannot follow player salary standards from Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain

Soccer News:

Barcelona is doing excellent on all fronts; they are in currently first in Primera division with 4 points ahead of Real Madrid and need 3 more points from last two games to secure title. In Spain Copa del Rey they will be facing Athletic Bilbao in final game and in UEFA Champions League they will be playing Juventus for the title. Enrique could win a triple in his first season as Barcelona coach.

Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain are making new standards in player salary 

But no matter that their team is playing good Barcelona officials is worry that they might lose one or all three of their attacking trio Neymar, Messi or Suarez. Barcelona vice-president Javier Faust in recent interview said that it will be hard in future to keep their attackers in club. The main reason for that statement is player salary. Spain tax law and UEFA Financial Fair Play are limiting Barcelona ability for player salary. Faust said that new trend from Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea who are both owned by billionaires is making Barcelona life harder, according to Faust at this moment Barcelona is already have problem following salary standards set from those two clubs. Players are always comparing salary from different leagues and clubs and now Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain are dictating the “pace” in near future two Manchester clubs City and United will probably join them on the top. Barcelona is slowly preparing them to lose a player not because they are playing bad but because they cannot follow the salary demands. At the end of the interview Faust said that no matter about the new trends Barcelona will probably keep their attacking trio but they will have one eye on Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain.

“It’s challenging but we’ll keep Messi, Neymar and Suarez, although we’ll have to adapt to the new market circumstances at Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea and not just stand by. Footballers have a very short career and it’s their right to get what other clubs be willing to pay them. We can’t just tell them to stay here for half the salary.”

by ScoresPro.com

Barcelona is aware that they might lose Messi, Suarez or Neymar because they cannot follow player salary standards from Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain

Murray beats Chardy at the Italian Open

Tennis Updates:

Britain’s Andy Murray took his winning run on clay to 10 matches with victory over France’s Jeremy Chardy at the Italian Open. The 3rd seed, who at first glance, considered skipping Rome to rest for the French Open, came through 6-4 6-3 at the Foro Italico.

He is now scheduled to meet 13th seed Jo-Wilfried Tsonga from France or David Goffin from Belgium in the last 16.

However, fellow Briton Heather Watson suffered a defeat 6-1 6-1 by Carla Suarez Navarro from Spain during the 2nd round.

Murray, 27, managed to beat Rafael Nadal on clay for the first time on Sunday to claim his 2nd clay-court title in a week.

The reason for the Scot to choose to play in Rome is to get match time at sea level, as opposed to the altitude of Munich and Madrid, and he appeared at ease in the new conditions.

“My legs were a bit tired at the start but they started to feel better after a few games,” said the Scot. “I played a good match.

“He has a big serve, it was tough for me. But I hung in, moved well and didn’t give him loads of opportunities. I served well throughout the match.

“I’m happy with how I adjusted to conditions, I made it difficult for him to win free points.

“I don’t know how my body will feel over the next days, but I’ll try to spend as much time recovering and resting as possible.”

Jeremy Chardy from France, ranked 38th, created the first opportunity with 2 break points at 3-2, but a spectacular backhand winner from Murray saved the first and set the tone for what was to follow. Murray managed to save the 2nd and then got the break himself with some wonderful backhands before closing out the set comfortably.

Another winner off that side gave him the breakthrough early in the 2nd set and a limp backhand into the net from Chardy offered up a 3rd and final break after an hour and 25 minutes.

4th seed Nadal responded to Sunday’s defeat by Murray with a 6-2 6-0 win over Turkey’s Marsel Ilhan, while 2nd seed Roger Federer takes on Uruguay’s Pablo Cuevas later on Wednesday.

In the women’s draw, 2nd seed Simona Halep thrashed Alison Riske 6-3 6-0, Victoria Azarenka beat 5th seed Caroline Wozniacki 6-2 7-6 (7-2) and 6th seed Eugenie Bouchard saw off Zarina Diyas 6-3 6-4.

by ScoresPro.com

Murray beats Chardy at the Italian Open

Transfer Rumors: David de Gea to Real Madrid, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale to Manchester United

Soccer News:

Premiership is almost over only two rounds are left to play. For Manchester United this was an excellent season, they (will probably) manage to play UEFA Champions League next season. Currently they are on 4^th place that leads into UEFA Champions League qualifications, 5^th Liverpool is behind 6 points and Manchester United need only 1 more point to win 4^th place mathematically. But probably most interesting thing about Manchester United is not their place in Premiership, but how will that team look in the new season.

De Gea to Real Madrid, Benzema and Bale to Manchester United 

Last year in summer transfer window almost all major stars were mention at some points with moving to Old Trafford. For this summer transfer window Manchester United is ready to spent around 200 million euros on new players but also Louis Van Gaal will say farewell to some old players. Manchester United already announces that they sign a new attacker, young Dutch striker Memphis Depay will move from PSV to Manchester United for 27.5 million euros. Some England newspapers are saying that we might see a big trade between Manchester United and Real Madrid. Manchester United would like to see Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema in their ranks, while Real Madrid is looking for a new goalkeeper and David De Gea is their first pick. After disappointing season for Real Madrid their boss Florentino Perez might want to change some faces in locker room. If this happened then Louis van Gaal will need a new goalkeeper and Tottenham Hugo Lloris is their first pick, but United might not look to sign a new goalkeeper this season since they have Victor Valdes under their contract. Louis van Gaal finally find out that he need some defenders and Borussia Dortmund captain Mats Hummels is his first pick, according to some sources player already agree personal terms with Manchester United. Second player that need to boost defense is Southampton right back Nathaniel Clyne. With Hummels one more player might be joining from Borussia Dortmund and that is defensive midfielder Ilkay Gundogan. A lot of players it will be interesting to see who will Louis van Gaal be able to sign in this summer transfer window.

by ScoresPro.com

Transfer Rumors: David de Gea to Real Madrid, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale to Manchester United

Soccer Rumors: Dani Alves on the verge of signing with Manchester United

Soccer News and Rumors:

Even though Barcelona is close to winning the UEFA Champions League trophy, it’s almost one hundred percent sure that they won’t be able to convince Dani Alves to stay with the club. The latest reports regarding the defender are that Manchester United is very close to signing him, as the Red Devils have offered the Brazilian better financial terms. Furthermore, Alves’ contract with Barcelona is until June this summer, which means that the Premier League club won’t have to pay a transfer fee.

The Brazilian right-back has played a terrific season with Barcelona, and it’s a shame that he will be leaving the club. Letting Alves leave wouldn’t be the best decision from the management of the Catalonians, as the player has been a vital part of the club’s success throughout the last seven years. Furthermore, Barcelona won’t be able to sign a replacement at least until the January transfer window because of the current transfer ban. So it’s a bit hard to believe all the rumors stating that Alves will leave the club. The way I see it, Barcelona will do almost everything in order to keep the Brazilian defender for at least a season or two more.

Nevertheless, if the Red Devils can really get him to sign with them, the team will be able to replace Antonio Valencia, who isn’t enjoying a lot of successes lately. Alves will be a big upgrade over Valencia, especially on the offensive end, as the current Barcelona player is widely known for his attacking abilities. However, Manchester United fans shouldn’t get their hopes too high. As I have previously said, I don’t think that Barcelona will let Dani Alves go so easily. If the Red Devils really want the right-back to arrive at Old Trafford, they will have to offer the player a lot more money than Barca.

ScoresPro.com

Soccer Rumors: Dani Alves on the verge of signing with Manchester United

Carlo Ancelotti might be leading Real Madrid for the last time in tonight’s game against Juventus

Soccer News:

Carlo Ancelotti might be acting as Real Madrid coach for the last time in tonight’s games against Juventus. On Saturday Real Madrid probably loss all chances to win Primera division title when they draw against Valencia (2-2) at their Santiago Bernabeu.

After the game Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti were sarcastically clapping to the referee Carlos Gomez.

“After the game Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was standing around 30 meters away from me and sarcastically clapping to me and my assistants probably not satisfied with our performance. The same thing mister Ancelotti repeats to my assistant in player tunnel.”

According to article 117 of the Disciplinary Code in which “derogatory addressing to the judges, executive or other sport persons during a game is consider an offense, punishable with two to three games suspension or time period to one month”. That means Carlo Ancelotti will not lead Real Madrid in last two rounds of Primera Division against Espanyol and Getafe. In case that Real Madrid doesn’t success to kick out Juventus in semi-finals of UEFA Champions League tonight, then tonight’s game might be last game for Carlo Ancelotti. It is hard to expect that Florentino Perez will leave Ancelotti on the bench in the season without trophies.

Ronaldo also suffer RFEF suspension earlier this year

Earlier this year Cristiano Ronaldo was also banned but for one month after hitting Cordoba player. In order for Real Madrid to win Primera title they need to win both of their games and Barcelona need to loss at least four points, Barcelona is playing against Atletico Madrid at Vincent Calderon and then against Deportivo at their Nou Camp. In case that both clubs end the season with the same amount of points then head-to-head between them will decide who will take the title. This year Real Madrid is in advantage since they beat Barcelona 3-1 in Madrid and loss 1-2 in Barcelona.

by ScoresPro.com

Photo by Doha Stadium Plus

Carlo Ancelotti might be leading Real Madrid for the last time in tonight’s game against Juventus

Chelsea called Jorge Mendes to help them transfer Antoine Griezmann from Atletico Madrid

Soccer News:

Chelsea and Jose Mourinho took crown in Premiership two rounds before the end first after season 2009/2010 and now Mourinho can focus on trying to sign new players. One of players that are “hot topic” in Chelsea is Atletico Madrid striker Antoine Griezmann.

Mourinho called Jorge Mendes to help with the transfer

Chelsea is not the first club that wants Griezmann in their ranks, but Chelsea is probably the only one that is doing something about it. Griezmann have a contract with Atletico Madrid until end of June 2020 and there is no secret that Atletico Madrid would like to keep the player. And according to them they don’t need to sell any players to refresh their team with new faces. The only problem in this entire story is that Griezmann got a clause in his contract that is saying if other club offers 43.5 million pounds they can negotiate with the player. For Chelsea that will not represent any major problems and they can offer much more than Atletico Madrid. This Chelsea team is already force in Europe. If Mourinho can add 2-3 new fresh players then they become one of major pretenders for UEFA Champions League title. That would make a new challenge for Griezmann, also Chelsea might fulfill Griezmann financial request easier than Atletico Madrid. That Mourinho thinks serious about Griezmann we saw when Chelsea appointed “super-agent” Jorge Mendes to complete the deal for them. Mendes is one of best sport agents in the world, just for the info in 2014 summer transfer window he manage four of the seven biggest deals James Rodriguez (Monaco to Real Madrid; 63 million pounds), Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid to Manchester United; 60 million pounds), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid to Chelsea; 32 million pounds) and Eliaquim Mangala (Porto to Manchester City; 32 million pounds).

by ScoresPro.com

Chelsea called Jorge Mendes to help them transfer Antoine Griezmann from Atletico Madrid

Madrid Open: Murray beats Nadal and triumphs with the title

Tennis Updates:

Andy Murray developed his remarkable run on clay courts when he completed a stunning upset to dethrone home favorite Rafa Nadal 6-3 6-2 in the Madrid Masters final on Sunday and claim his 2nd title on the surface in a week.

Following up his debut triumph on the red dust on Monday in Munich, Murray denied Nadal a 3rd straight triumph in the Spanish capital — and record 5th overall — and raised fresh doubts over the Spaniard’s form heading into the French Open.

The Scot’s strong performances this week suggest he may be a real contender in Paris, when holder Nadal, who has struggled for consistency since returning from injury and illness, will be bidding for a record-extending 10th Roland Garros crown.

“To play Rafa in Spain is extremely tough and this is the reason why we play tennis for these matches,” Murray said after receiving the trophy from Spain’s Queen Sofia.

“It’s one of the toughest things in tennis to try to beat Rafa on clay,” added the 27-year-old. “I’ll keep trying to play well over the next few weeks with Roland Garros just around the corner.”

Murray had never beaten 3rd-seeded Nadal on clay in 6 attempts but raced into a 3-0 lead at the futuristic magic box arena and fended off three break points to close out the set.

The world number 3 broke Nadal more than once to open a 4-0 lead in the 2nd and finished him off on his first match point when the Mallorcan sent a weak forehand return into the net.

Nadal, 28, congratulated Murray for a “great season” and said he would try to keep working back to top form at this week’s Rome Masters before heading to the French capital.

“Obviously, this wasn’t the match I wanted or expected to play today,” Nadal said.

“Although it’s not nice to end it like this, it has been a very important week for me, very positive, in which I rediscovered sensations I had not had on a tennis court for a long time,” he added.

It was Murray’s 10th Masters crown and 33rd career title, while Nadal missed out on a record-extending 28th Masters and 66th title overall.

Sadly for Nadal fans, he needed a win to stay 4th in the world rankings and he will drop to 7 when they are updated, putting him outside the top 5 for the first time in a decade.

Rafael Nadal vs Andy Murray, 10/05/2015, 17:15 GMT, Match Center

Madrid Open: Murray beats Nadal and triumphs with the title

Murray to play at the Italian Open

Tennis Updates:

Andy Murray – the world number 3, will look to extend his clay-court winning streak at the Italian Open after confirming he will play in the tournament on 12/05/2015. The Scot had considered skipping Rome to rest ahead of the French Open, having won back-to-back titles in Munich and Madrid over the last couple of weeks. The Briton secured a victory against Rafael Nadal in Sunday’s Madrid Open final for his first Masters trophy on the surface.

Murray’s manager Matt Gentry says Tuesday, ”Andy confirmed to play tomorrow after practice just now.”

Murray, seeded 3rd, is scheduled to play Jeremy Chardy from France on Wednesday.

Novak Djokovic made a return with a 6-1 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 win over Nicolas Almagro on Tuesday after missing Madrid.

Murray managed to beat Rafael Nadal in the Madrid final on Sunday before heading to Rome, where he practiced two times before making his decision.

Between the 2 sessions, Murray told reporters: “I would like to play. I feel good just now in terms of my game, and confident.

“I said it would be good for me to play matches at sea level after playing at altitude the last couple of weeks, but I also need to look a little bit further ahead with such big events just around the corner – Roland Garros and Wimbledon – and try to make the best decision.”

The Scot, 27, also confirmed that he will be working exclusively with coach Jonas Bjorkman from the end of Wimbledon until potentially the end of the year.

Murray began working with Amelie Mauresmo last June. However, the Frenchwoman is expecting her first child in August.

“Jonas is going to be with me after Wimbledon, just me and him through potentially right until the end of the year,” said Murray.

“I think both of us are quite motivated to do that. I didn’t get to spend too much time with Jonas so far but it’s been a good start and I’ll try to keep it up.”

Murray said earlier he was contemplating withdrawing: ”I made my schedule based on my performances on clay in the past couple of years and I never played that well on clay. So I didn’t expect to play eight matches in the space of 10 days.”

by ScoresPro.com

Murray to play at the Italian Open

UEFA Champions League: Barcelona is the first team to reach this year's final, who will be the next one?

Soccer, UEFA Champions League News:

One of the teams that will take part in this year’s UEFA Champions League finals will be Barcelona, as the Catalonians found a way to eliminate Bayern Munich from the tournament. The Spanish club suffered a 3-2 defeat in the second leg of the semi-finals, but their 3-0 win from the first leg was enough to get them through. The Bavarians fought brave, but they were once again unable to stop the attacks of their opponents, as Neymar scored two goals between the 15th and 29th minute of the first half.

The match started at a pretty fast pace, and Bayern took the initiative in their hands. They were able to score the first goal in the game after a corner, but their happiness was pretty short-lived. In the 15th and 29th minute, Neymar’s shots were not saved by Manuel Neuer and the score became 1-2 in favor of Barcelona and the aggregate 1-5 – something that the Bavarians were incapable of overcoming. In the second half of the match, Bayern Munich scored two goals, but they were enough only to give them the 3-2 win in the second leg.

“The fans have been really great today. We believed in the miracle, but we couldn’t make it happen. It’s impossible to stop (Barcelona’s) players for the whole 90 minutes. We didn’t lose it today, but in the first leg.” – said Philipp Lahm in an interview after the match.

As we now know that Barcelona will play in the final, the focus shifts to the second semi-final that will be played tomorrow between Real Madrid and Juventus. In the first leg between the Whites and Juve, the Italian club was able to get the 2-1 victory, but it’s definitely not enough for Juventus to be confident that they will advance to the final. Even though Real Madrid is not in their best form, they shouldn’t be underestimated, as we all know how good they have played at the Santiago Bernabeu this season. Los Blancos have scored at least a goal at the Bernabeu in every UEFA Champions League home game they have played, which is what they need if Juventus doesn’t score. Tomorrow game will definitely be very interesting, so don’t dare to miss it!

By ScoresPro.com

UEFA Champions League: Barcelona is the first team to reach this year's final, who will be the next one?

NBA Rumors: The Los Angeles Lakers showing signs of interest towards Jimmy Butler

Basketball, NBA Rumors:

The Chicago Bulls are currently in the middle of a very competitive second-round series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, but that won’t stop the Los Angeles Lakers of trying to think of a way to lure Jimmy Butler when the playoffs end. The player will become a restricted free-agent at the end of this season, and that will definitely attract a lot of teams during the summer. There have been a couple of reports that the Lakers will try as hard as possible to sign Butler, which includes offering him a maximum level contract.

The interesting part here is that the Chicago Bulls still haven’t mentioned anything about offering Butler a contract of any kind. However, they may just wait for the end of the playoffs, in order not to get the player’s mind off basketball. But even if they haven’t made any statement yet, they should start thinking about offering Butler a max-contract, because that will be the price that a lot of teams are going to be ready to pay for him.

Jimmy Butler could be a pretty good fit with the Los Angeles Lakers if he decides to sign with them during the upcoming summer. He will most likely be moved to the small forward position, as Kobe Bryant is still occupying the shooting guard role. Nevertheless, Kobe will definitely receive fewer minutes than previous years, which means that Butler will even get some playing time at the two-guard position.

The Los Angeles Lakers will most likely try to sign every superstar free-agent this summer in order to improve their team. However, the bad thing is that the Lakers will most likely need more than just one big free agent to join them.

By ScoresPro.com

NBA Rumors: The Los Angeles Lakers showing signs of interest towards Jimmy Butler

Madrid Open: Murray to face Nadal in the men final

Tennis Updates:

Britain’s Andy Murray managed to beat Kei Nishikori from Japan with straight sets and will face Rafael Nadal in the Madrid Masters final. Murray demonstrated an aggressive display to dispatch the 4th seed 6-3 6-4.

The Japanese had problems with returning serve effectively as world number 3 Murray reached his first Masters final on clay.

“I returned well and put him under a lot of pressure on his serve,” said the Scot, 27. “And my backhand was really good tonight.”

The Scot number one is aiming for back-to-back clay-court titles after winning his first ATP crown on the surface in Munich last week.

“I did a few things well,” he added. “Kei has a fantastic backhand and I won the exchanges on cross-court.

“I got a lot of winners down the line and because I was pushing him back to the baseline, I was able to use my to drop shot. I was getting a lot of kick on second serve, too, so I got a lot of free points with that.”

At 2-3 on serve in the 1st set, Murray soared the pressure and reeled off 4 straight games to move a set ahead. And although Nishikori managed to break him early in the 2nd, the British number 1 hit straight back, and then broke the Japanese again at 5-4 to secure the win.

Earlier, Nadal – the defending champion looked near his best against Tomas Berdych in his Madrid Open semi-final, earning his place in the final with ease. The legend Spaniard delivered a master class of clay-court tennis to prevail 7-6 (7-3) 6-1 against the Czech 6th seed.

However, the two men were evenly matched in the 1st set, before Nadal hit a string of forehand winners in the tie-break.

Berdych was unable to make an impression on the Nadal serve and became frustrated by distractions in the crowd.

Errors crept into his game and Nadal was able to break two times before serving out the 2nd set.

After his struggles with injury in recent years, the Spaniard appears to be hitting peak form before the French Open begins later this month and what is more, he has not dropped a set on route to the Madrid final.

by ScoresPro.com

Madrid Open: Murray to face Nadal in the men final

Transfer News: Wolfsburg announce signing of Tim Kruse from Borussia Monchengladbach for 12 million euros

Soccer News:

Summer transfer window it’s not even near starting and we already got some confirmation from the new transfers. Yesterday we got confirmation that Depay is new attacker for Manchester United and today second team in Bundesliga announce that they will strength their attack in the next season.

Kruse new Wolfsburg attacker

Wolfsburg is playing excellent in this season in Bundesliga, they are holding 2^nd place behind Bayern Munich and will play in UEFA Champions League next season.  So they decide that they need to strength their attack to help them make better placement in UEFA Champions League and Bundesliga in next season. Current Borussia Monchengladbach attacker Max Kruse agrees the terms with Wolfsburg and will sign a four years deal with the club after this season. According to Transfermarkt transfer fee that Wolfsburg will pay Borussia Monchengladbach will be 12 million euros. For the official Wolfsburg site Kruse told that this will be a next step in his career and that he hopes to help Wolfsburg to be better team in Europe and in Germany. But for now he wants to concentrate on last two round of Bundesliga with Borussia Monchengladbach.

“After very good talks with Klaus Allof (Sport Director) and Dieter Hecking (head coach) it was clear to me that I wanted to move to Wolfsburg because the style of play suits me and the squad has a great quality.”

Tim Kruse will help Bas Dost in Wolfsburg attack

This season Kruse scored 13 goals from 40 appearances in all competitions for Borussia Monchengladbach. Wolfsburg is hoping that with Kruse signing they will relief some pressure from their first attacker Bas Dost who scored 15 goals this season. This season Wolfsburg don’t have luck with attackers, in January they sold Ivica Olic after he scored only 5 goals from 14 appearances and Nicklas Bendtner former Arsenal attackers scored only once this season.

by ScoresPro.com

Transfer News: Wolfsburg announce signing of Tim Kruse from Borussia Monchengladbach for 12 million euros