Chelsea vs Benfica 2012: 2012

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

New Jersey Nets vs Portland Trail Blazers Live Stream Free Online

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Phoenix Suns vs Utah Jazz Live Stream Free Online

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Memphis Grizzlies vs Dallas Mavericks Live Stream Free Online

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Golden State Warriors vs Minnesota Timberwolves Live Stream Free Online

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Cleveland Cavaliers vs Milwaukee Bucks Live Stream Free Online

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Oklahoma City Thunder vs Miami Heat Live Stream Free Online

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Denver Nuggets vs New Orleans Hornets Live Stream Free Online

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San Antonio Spurs vs Boston Celtics Live Stream Free Online

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Charlotte Bobcats vs Atlanta Hawks Live Stream Free Online

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Indiana Pacers vs Washington Wizards Live Stream Free Online

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Toronto Raptors Vs Philadelphia Live Stream Free Online

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LA Lakers vs LA Clippers Live Stream Free Online

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LA Lakers vs LA Clippers Live Stream

10:30 PM ET, April 4, 2012
STAPLES Center, Los Angeles, CA

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Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Nesta bemused by penalty decision

AC Milan defender Alessandro Nesta was left bewildered by the penalty given against him during their Champions League loss to Barcelona.

Referee Bjorn Kuipers pointed to the spot after the former Italy international had tangled with Barcelona duo Carles Puyol and Sergio Busquets in the area as they awaited the delivery for a corner shortly before half-time of the quarter-final second-leg clash.

Milan were incensed by the decision, given the ball had not been in play at the time, and Nesta has admitted that he has no idea why he was penalised.

"I pulled Puyol out of the way but only after he blocked me," the World Cup winner said. "Not a single one of the players protested."

Team-mate Clarence Seedorf also agreed the penalty was unwarranted.

"The referee blew and the penalties were given," he said. "It's true that I didn't see what happened but, speaking to the referee, for me he made a mistake (on the second penalty).

"If he saw that a foul was being committed (before the ball was in play), he should have stopped the game, which is what always happens.

"That was a key moment in the game, but we didn't lose because of that."

Despite the controversy caused by the penalty, which Lionel Messi converted to set Barca on their way to a 3-1 victory, Nesta conceded that the better side had progressed to the semi-finals.

"Barcelona are strong," he said. "If you leave them space, they start to play like they know how.

"There's a big difference between us but I think that Milan have the economic power and the technical talent to get closer and one day or another this (Barca) team will start to fall.

"I think that in these two games we've shown that they can be beaten. But it's true that they have Messi, who's like having an extra player and good for them that they have him.

"We were unlucky and there's no shame in losing to the best in the world."

The former Lazio captain has won two Champions League titles during his decade-long Milan career.

Monday, April 2, 2012

Fergie backs shoot-on-sight policy

Sir Alex Ferguson described Antonio Valencia's late goal on Monday as typifying Manchester United's history.

The defending champions beat Blackburn Rovers with two goals in the last 10 minutes to go five points clear at the top of the table.

United dominated the match at Ewood Park but did not find the breakthrough until the 81st minute when Valencia drilled home a cross-cum-shot, before Ashley Young secured a 2-0 victory with a precise finish.

"Coming so late in the game, it is an important goal," Ferguson told Sky Sports.

"It typifies the history of the club. If you don't try to shoot, you're never going to find out if you can score like that.

"There was amazing power on it. It could have been a cross, could have been a shot, but it doesn't matter. There was great power (on the attempt)."

Ferguson felt that for all of the possession his team had enjoyed, they had struggled to really test Blackburn goalkeeper Paul Robinson.

"It was a long night," he said. "We just had to persevere and we got our rewards for it.

"We weren't really creating any clear-cut chances – Wayne (Rooney) had a good free-kick saved by the goalkeeper, and there was a lot of great crosses by Antonio that weren't finished off.

"We always had them under the cosh, but we had to be careful of their counter-attack. They were dangerous at that point."

The result win puts United in control as they look to defend their crown, giving them the opportunity to, at least briefly, go eight points clear when they play QPR on Sunday.

"We've scored more goals, which is a big step for us – the goal difference deficit has gone down to only one goal," Ferguson said.

"It could come to goal difference, who knows. It's significant that we've now scored more goals than Manchester City. We look as if we can score.

"We've still got seven games left and my experience of these situations is that it doesn't matter what the points total is at the moment – what is really important is trying to win Sunday's game."

Meanwhile, Blackburn boss Steve Kean is convinced his side are playing well enough to stay up, despite dropping into the relegation zone.

"If we play for the full duration as we did for 80 minutes against Manchester United I am sure the points we pick up will be more than enough," Kean said.

"There were lots of aspects of our performance that pleased us, even though the eventual result is disappointing."

"We are now looking for United to do us a favour against QPR and Wigan."

"We will get plenty of points in our remaining games if we play like that and stretch it out for the whole game," Kean said.

"I think from United's point of view they will have looked at that for 80 minutes and wondered where the goal was coming from because we were getting into good positions off the ball and we were playing it cleverly.

"I thought it could have gone either way but you have got to take your chances and their goals were two great strikes.

"(Manchester United keeper) David de Gea had a great evening for them, pulling out all sorts of saves, so there were lots of aspects of our performance that pleased us, even though the eventual result is disappointing."

Blackburn travel next to West Bromwich Albion before Liverpool visit Ewood Park.

Phoenix defender unfazed by Glory

Perth Glory may have the Shane Smeltz factor but Wellington Phoenix defender Ben Sigmund has not seen much else to have him worried ahead of Saturday's A-League minor semi-final.

Smeltz grabbed all the headlines following his hat-trick in Glory's 3-0 win over Melbourne Heart on Sunday night and will be the man the Phoenix have to stop if they are to keep their dreams of reaching a first grand final alive.

"Perth are definitely beatable after watching (Sunday) night," said the New Zealand centre-back. "Shane popped up and scored those goals but to be fair I thought that was pretty much all they had.

"I'd be pretty disappointed if I let three go past from Shane Smeltz. We've got to go there pretty confident."

But keeping Smeltz scoreless is no easy task. He has notched seven goals in his past two games and now has 16 for the season.

But Wellington have done managed to in their two most recent encounters with the Glory and Sigmund has his New Zealand team-mate, and friend, in his sights again.

"He should always be watching his back when Siggy is chasing him," joked Sigmund. "It's mark him tight and don't let him have a sniff. As soon as he gets a sniff he just seems to be in the right place at the right time.

"Like the commentators were saying the other night, you won't see him for 60 minutes and then he'll just pop up and score a couple of great goals.

"That's the challenge to make sure you've always got him on your shoulder and you've marked him tightly."

Sigmund has also developed the knack of being in the right place at the right time too this season.

He opened up his account against the Glory in December with a match-winning header and added a further two goals to his tally in matches against Sydney, the latter when he headed home a Leo Bertos corner for Wellington's second against the Sky Blues in last Friday night's 3-2 win.

"It's just making stronger runs into the box, trying to lose my man," he said. "At times I'm starting a bit deeper and just trying to hit the ball.

"Sometimes it's luck, just popping up at the right time. To be fair at the weekend we spoke about trying to isolate me around the back post.

"It was Tim Brown who called it so he should take the credit for that one. It was nice to pop up and score that one."

Wellington will head to Perth as underdogs given they have never managed to win a finals series match away from home. They lost to Sydney in 2010 and Adelaide United last year.

"Everyone's confidence is high. Sometimes it's nice to be the underdog," said Sigmund.

"I don't think it really matters. Finals football, nothing is going to change. Whoever takes their chances and scores their goals and turns up on the day is the team that's going to go to the next round."

Reja relishes clash with Napoli

Lazio coach Edy Reja believes that Saturday's Serie A clash with Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico is effectively a final for both sides.

Napoli hold Italy's third and final Champions League place, but Lazio are just three points ahead of their opponents, with whom they drew 0-0 earlier in the season.

As a result, Reja feels that it is impossible to overstate the importance of the encounter for the two teams.

"This is a final for both us and them," he told Lazio Style Radio.

"Our destiny will be largely decided on Saturday.

"However, we must also pay attention to Roma and Inter, who are both drawing closer."

Reja, a former Napoli coach, has fond memories of his time at the San Paolo.

"On the Partenopei bench, I reached Serie A for the first time, and then Europe," the well-travelled 66-year-old reminisced.

"But I have also taken great satisfaction out of the things that I have done here with Lazio."

Reja, who has twice offered to resign this season, spent four years in charge of Napoli between 2005 and 2009.

Yakubu targets hat-trick against Manchester United

The Nigerian international believes the title race is still undecided, and recalled the two goals he scored at Old Trafford to give the Lancashire side a 3-2 victory away at United

Blackburn striker Yakubu has warned Manchester United that he believes he could score a hat-trick when the two meet on Monday at Ewood Park.

The Nigerian international scored two goals as his side clinched a shock 3-2 victory against the defending champions at Old Trafford on New Year’s Eve.

And the forward recalled the day fondly, telling The Sun: "Scoring against United is always special — they're one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"To score two that day at Old Trafford was a great feeling. You always want to be at your best when you play the biggest clubs.

"But I always think I can score, no matter which club I am playing against. Whenever I get the ball I believe I can score.

"After I get my first goal I always feel I can go on and get a second. That's what happened at Old Trafford. Maybe I can do it again — to go one better and get a hat-trick against United. That would be great for me."

The Red Devils recently overtook rivals Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table and would go five points clear with a win at Ewood Park.

However, Yakubu believes his side, who have climbed out of the relegation zone after winning three of their last six league games, will not make it easy for Sir Alex Ferguson’s men.

He continued: "The league will be a fight to the end. City won't just give away the title. United could drop points at any time. Already this season we have won some games people did not expect us to win."

The forward has already scored 14 league goals so far this campaign, but underlined his desire for more and thanked his manager for giving him the opportunity to do so.

He continued: "I want to score more than 20 goals in a season. To score more than 20 in the Premier League is always a great achievement.

"Steve Kean gave me the opportunity to come back to the Premier League. He allowed me to prove what I can do — and I have to thank him for that."

Deschamps talks up chances

Marseille coach Didier Deschamps still believes his side can qualifying for the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.

The French outfit trail Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich 2-0 from the first leg, but Deschamps insists his side will fight to the end as they look to progress .

"We have to be realistic. Obviously we still stand a chance," Deschamps said.

"Although after the first leg, Bayern Munich is clearly the big favourite. What's important for us, for my players, is to hit the pitch fully aware of the game's stake.

"They'll play the best match possible. They'll try and get the best score. After, everything depends on the scenario. We'll see if at some point during the game, our chances can increase.

"In any case, we'll hit the pitch aiming for a win. It may not be enough. However the team hasn't lost its qualities after the first leg.

"It's rather pleasant and exciting to play this kind of game even if the result of the first leg makes our task a difficult one."

Deschamps said home ground advantage will favour the German side.

"It's going to be crazy in the stadium. It'll be full," he said.

"And Bayern is a team that performs well at home. So our task is all the more harder.

"I think that because it's the second leg of the last eight, and for the image of Marseille on an international level, we must do our best.

"And again in front of us there's an opponent with great qualities but we'll fight till the end in order to avoid having regrets. After, we'll see what happens."

Goal ace Young thrilled with victory

Ashley Young was delighted with Manchester United's 2-0 victory at Blackburn Rovers which moved them five points clear at the top.

The game was tight for 80 minutes until Antonio Valencia opened the scoring, and five minutes later Young, coming off the bench, sealed the victory.

Young told Sky Sports: "I think it was a massive game for us. We knew if we won today we would go five points clear at the top. It's a great result and a great performance.

"It's a crucial time in the season, everyone knows that. It's a squad game. The manager made a few changes tonight but everybody's in the squad to do a job and we got that done tonight.

"I think patience was important. If you look at how many balls Antonio (Valencia) put in the box, we were always going to create chances and when that first goal goes in it's a great feeling."

The win pushes United five points clear of rivals Manchester City and Young spoke of his pleasure at scoring.

"It's a massive lead (at the top of the table) for us," he said.

"It was a massive game tonight and to get that goal, that we knew was going to come at some point - whether he says it was a shot or a cross! It went in the back of the net so we're just delighted with that.

"It (Young's goal) ranks up there. For us to come here and get three points – we knew it was going to be a tough game but the boys were resilient and we knew if we kept creating chances that we would score one.

"We're just taking each game as it comes. We've got another tough game coming up on Sunday (at home to QPR) and we'll just look forward to that one now. We're five points clear now, but we've just got to concentrate on each game as it comes."

Manchester United can increase their lead to eight points if they beat Queens Park Rangers on Sunday, with Manchester City playing Arsenal later that day.

Xavi doubtful for AC Milan clash - report

The Catalans will possibly be without their playmaker in Tuesday's crunch encounter versus the Rossoneri as the Spain international is being plagued by muscular problems

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has received some worrying news from the treatment table ahead of the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against AC Milan as he will possibly have to make do without Xavi due to injury, El Mundo Deportivo reports.

The influential midfielder featured for only 15 minutes in Barcelona's 2-0 Liga win over Athletic Bilbao on Saturday, and missed Sunday's training session due to a muscular problem.

It is not yet exactly known how serious the 32-year-old's injury is, but the Spain international could miss Tuesday's encounter at Camp Nou due to the knock.

Xavi is expected to undergo a number of tests during Monday's training session at 18.00CET to determine whether he will be able to feature versus Milan.

Barcelona were held to a scoreless draw at San Siro last week, and will be looking to beat the Serie A champions on Tuesday in order to book their ticket for the semi-finals.

Not impossible to overcome Real Madrid in La Liga, says Pedro

The versatile attacker has admitted that it will not be easy for the Catalans to retain their league title, but stressed that they will not give up just yet

Barcelona attacker Pedro has insisted that the Catalans can still pip arch-rivals Real Madrid to the Primera Division title.

The Blaugranas are currently trailing the Santiago Bernabeu side by six points, and although he realises that it will not be easy, Pedro believes that Barca can successfully defend their league title.

"We know we can do it. Madrid have a good lead but we just have to take it game by game, playing as we are now, and hoping that they slip up, so we can reduce the difference," Pedro stated on a press conference.

"It’ll be difficult because they are playing at such a high level, but we are in our best moment of the season with the mentality to be able to do it. It will be difficult to successfully defend the title, but not impossible."

Barcelona are currently preparing for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final at home against AC Milan on Tuesday, before resuming La Liga action on April 8 against Zaragoza.

Van Persie believes tough run-in will bring the best out of Arsenal

The Gunners host Manchester City and Chelsea during their final Premier League games as they look to secure third place and claim automatic Champions League qualification

Robin van Persie has claimed that facing some of the Premier League’s toughest sides during the run-in is a bonus for Arsenal in their bid to finish in the top four.

The Gunners currently occupy third place, the final automatic qualification spot for the Champions League, but Saturday’s 2-1 loss at QPR ended a run of seven straight victories and has allowed rivals Tottenham to draw level on points.

Spurs have, what looks on paper, a significantly easier final set of fixtures, with Arsenal hosting Manchester City on Sunday and Chelsea two weeks later, but the Dutch striker feels stiffer competition will bring the best out of him and his team-mates.

“We have seven more games to play and I believe we can come third,” Van Persie told The Daily Mirror.

“It won’t be easy, everyone is fighting for every point and our opportunity is next week against Man City. We have to go for it and believe and we will.

“It is a shame we have to wait [until Sunday to face] Manchester City but it is how it is. We have to look forward and the next one is a big one.

“Even last week when we were three points ahead [of Spurs] with eight games we never thought it was done. Chelsea won and came closer but we have to look at ourselves.

“Everyone is disappointed but towards the end of the week I am sure the spirit will be how it was. We’ll have a couple of days to be disappointed but after that our focus is on Manchester City.

“They are second but drew against Sunderland so they will need the points. We have seven big games to play but if you look at the big name teams then we have City and Chelsea.

"As a fan of football I always like to play those games and one of them is next week.”

Van Persie is currently on a three-game goalless run after failing to notch against QPR, a rarity in a season where he has netted 26 times already.

And the striker put his latest shut-out down to the industry of Mark Hughes' side and Arsenal’s inability to capitalise on the momentum of Theo Walcott’s equaliser.

Van Persie added: “It was a tough game. I always thought after Theo scored his goal and we were level we could win the game. It was just a tough game.”

Meanwhile, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes his side must replicate their recent success and win their last seven games to guarantee a direct spot in next season’s Champions League group stage.

“We have to win every single game now. That it why it is so disappointing to lose,” Wenger said.

“Manchester City is a good opportunity to put things right again of course. I believe that we will see a different Arsenal next Sunday but I can tell you as well that it will be needed.

“It is disappointing to lose a big run in the way we did. But at the end of the day, the result doesn’t lie.”

McLeish praises resolute Petrov

Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish said Stiliyan Petrov is in "fantastic spirits" as he sets out on his battle to beat leukaemia.

The 32-year-old midfielder and Villa captain began his treatment on Monday with his family and club representatives by his side.

Speaking to Sky Sports News McLeish said: "The chairman Randy Lerner, the chief executive Paul Faulkner and myself went to see Stiliyan today with the support of his wife, on this the very first day of his road to recovery.

"He's determined to meet it head on. We would expect that from Stan, and he was talking really positively and actually couldn't wait to get started, to try and clear up this illness that he has.

"The support he has had from football friends here at Aston Villa, Celtic yesterday and the Chelsea players on Saturday afternoon, we are really delighted and proud of the response from the football family.

"Stan himself is in amazing spirits, absolutely fantastic spirits. God knows what the lad is probably thinking in his head, but he is the captain of Aston Villa and he has shown commitment on the pitch, he is a pure leader and he wants to lead himself through this particularly tough time."

When asked whether it was too soon to think about the long-term, McLeish added:"I think it's too early to think about that."

"He faces a battle, he will stand up to that battle and this afternoon he is talking about coming back to training tomorrow because he thinks he can train, that's the kind of spirits he's in.

"Everyone's here to support him. We thought it was appropriate that we should be there with him on his very first day towards recovery."

McLeish also called for Petrov's privacy to be respected, so that he and his family could given the time and space required at this difficult time.

"We want to be guided by Stan and his wife Paulina and we will do their bidding - whatever Stan wants.

"We realise there will be a lot of people clamouring to speak to him and I'm sure at some stage he will want to give a few words himself. I know the Bulgarian nation are supporting him really strongly also, and I'm sure in his home country they would like to talk to him as well.

"We are making this statement today because he is going to go through a battle now and there won't be daily bulletins. We will update you when we feel it is appropriate on behalf of Stiliyan Petrov and his family."

Prandelli buoyed by Cassano news

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli is delighted that Antonio Cassano is poised to make his return to first-team action with AC Milan.

The Milan striker, who played an integral role in his country's qualification for Euro 2012, has not played since having an emergency heart procedure last November after falling ill following his club's Serie A clash with Roma at the Stadio Olimpico.

It was initially feared that Cassano would not feature again this season but he could play some part in Milan's meeting with Fiorentina this weekend.

"I've very happy," Prandelli told reporters on Monday.

"I cannot say anything other than I'm just very happy."

Prandelli also had grounds to smile after learning that league officials have agreed to his request for a training camp at the end of the month.

The Azzurri boss had been hoping to hold several sessions in March and April but Serie A's finest rejected that idea.

However, a compromise agreement has been reached which will see clubs release their players for a two-day training camp on April 23-24.

Italy have been drawn in a group with Spain, Republic of Ireland and Croatia for Euro 2012.

Kompany: We want to win everything

Vincent Kompany says Manchester City are interested in winning trophies not just this season, but long-term.

Roberto Mancini's side dropped two points at home to Sunderland on Saturday, and saw title rivals Manchester United go five points clear with their win against Blackburn Rovers on Monday.

The City captain has not given up on catching United in the title race, but the team will continue to improve whether they finish in first or second.

"It's all about winning trophies ultimately, that’s the only thing we want," Kompany told The Daily Mirror.

"Not just one trophy, but everything, and that’s what we have to play for every single year, and we’re getting the club to that stage.

"For three or four years now we have always improved, this year we've improved again. Hopefully we can win the title.

"If not, which I don't count on, we'll be there, we’ll keep improving next season and it should be there soon.

"With what we have shown at home for the past year or more, we can be disappointed (with the Sunderland result).

"For two or three days everyone is going to be disappointed, everyone will feel as if we have lost it.

"But in the next three or four days we're going to start believing again, because there's no other choice."

And after poor performances over the last few weeks and dropping to second place in the table, manager Roberto Mancini is starting to come under criticism from fans and the media.

Some have even put pressure on the manager saying he may be sacked if the title does not end up at Eastlands this season, but Kompany has defended his boss.

"Ultimately he gives tactical advice, because we need to know where to stand," he said.

"We didn't do too well (against Sunderland) but we need to play in a way we can dismantle the other team and usually it works well.

"When you play with great players like this, you feel there will always be a moment when they can make something happen.

"But the reality is that you have to work hard for it and for long parts (against Sunderland) we didn't do enough.

"The disappointment is there, but I'll be the first one back at the training ground to get their heads back up because we have to believe."Vincent Kompany says Manchester City are interested in winning trophies not just this season, but long-term.

Roberto Mancini's side dropped two points at home to Sunderland on Saturday, and saw title rivals Manchester United go five points clear with their win against Blackburn Rovers on Monday.

The City captain has not given up on catching United in the title race, but the team will continue to improve whether they finish in first or second.

"It's all about winning trophies ultimately, that’s the only thing we want," Kompany told The Daily Mirror.

"Not just one trophy, but everything, and that’s what we have to play for every single year, and we’re getting the club to that stage.

"For three or four years now we have always improved, this year we've improved again. Hopefully we can win the title.

"If not, which I don't count on, we'll be there, we’ll keep improving next season and it should be there soon.

"With what we have shown at home for the past year or more, we can be disappointed (with the Sunderland result).

"For two or three days everyone is going to be disappointed, everyone will feel as if we have lost it.

"But in the next three or four days we're going to start believing again, because there's no other choice."

And after poor performances over the last few weeks and dropping to second place in the table, manager Roberto Mancini is starting to come under criticism from fans and the media.

Some have even put pressure on the manager saying he may be sacked if the title does not end up at Eastlands this season, but Kompany has defended his boss.

"Ultimately he gives tactical advice, because we need to know where to stand," he said.

"We didn't do too well (against Sunderland) but we need to play in a way we can dismantle the other team and usually it works well.

"When you play with great players like this, you feel there will always be a moment when they can make something happen.

"But the reality is that you have to work hard for it and for long parts (against Sunderland) we didn't do enough.

"The disappointment is there, but I'll be the first one back at the training ground to get their heads back up because we have to believe."

Injuries hit Chonburi´s cup hopes

Thai Premier League runners-up Chonburi are confident of victory over Hong Kong's Citizen AA in Tuesday's AFC Cup clash.

Chonburi, looking to consolidate their position at the top of Group G, have been hit by injuries with key defenders Anucha Kitpongsri and Natthaphong Samana doubtful.

"We are a bit concerned that we have some key injuries with our starters, especially on both flanks," coach Withaya Laohakul told reporters.

"However, we are still confident with what we will have on the field and also the work that the players have been putting in towards finishing our chances."

Meanwhile, Citizen's coach Chu Kwok Kuen revealed that his team is confident of taking a point.

"We are prepared and ready but we know that Chonburi are the best team in our group," he said.

"However, we are going to play our best to gain the three points, although I would be happy with at least one point."

In the last match, Chonburi earned a 1-0 win over Singapore Cup holders Home United, while Citizen managed to secure their first AFC Cup win 2-1 over Myanmar National League side Yangon United.

Guardiola expects Milan to score

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola believes his team will have to score at least twice against AC Milan on Tuesday.

Guardiola does not believe Barca will keep a clean sheet in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash.

The two sides drew 0-0 at San Siro last week in the first leg but the former Spain international is anticipating goals in their return meeting at Camp Nou.

"I take it as a given that Milan will score against us,” Guardiola admitted during his pre-game press conference on Monday.

“That's why we need to be very sharp on the attack and make the most of the chances we create."

It emerged on Monday that influential Blaugrana midfielder Xavi was a major doubt for the match because of a muscular problem but, according to Guardiola, the World Cup winner is in contention to start.

"He's been named to the squad; that means he could play," the 41-year-old coach said.

Vidal & Juve send Milan a title warning

The Chilean was the brains and the brawn behind the Old Lady's success, capping off his display with a goal that puts the Turin side within two points of the Serie A summit

As cup final warm-ups go it told us nothing, but as a barometer for Juventus’ title credentials, their 3-0 victory over Napoli on Sunday night gave us everything we needed to know. The Bianconeri are in their best form of the season heading for the run-in, and Arturo Vidal is the man driving them on.

The Chilean played the starring role as the Old Lady saw off a Napoli side devoid of any real drive at a time of the year when they could really suffer for their post-Champions League blues. But that should take nothing away from just how dominant Juve were for long spells, and in the second half they reaped their rewards.

After Marco Borriello failed to turn in an Andrea Pirlo cross in the opening minutes, Juventus continued to create all the chances. Vidal, Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio made all the running in midfield, seeing off the threat of Gokhan Inler and Walter Gargano with apparent ease to lay the platform from which the men in pink (at home … again!) would eventually make hay.

Vidal did so much of the hard work in both defence and attack in a display of sheer magnificence. The Chilean was regularly responsible for winning back possession, so often the man leading the midfield charge, and also a willing exponent of a killer pass from any angle. His performance had almost everything.

Juve broke through on 53 minutes, and despite their dominance it was somewhat fortuitous. Pirlo’s free kick from the right wasn’t dealt with, and Mirko Vucinic’s shot cannoned off Leonardo Bonucci and found the net. It was certainly lucky, but it was definitely deserved.

The home side continued to do most of the attacking, with Edinson Cavani forced to win back possession in his own box at one point such was his inactivity further up the field. It seemed only a matter of time before the Bianconeri would finish it off, and it was Vidal’s crowning moment which ended the game as a contest.

Ghosting into position to the left of goal after the Partenopei gave away cheap possession, the former Bayer Leverkusen man shimmied and shook before throwing in a couple of step-overs to bamboozle Hugo Campagnaro on his way into a shooting position. From there he delivered a magnificent left-foot shot which gave Morgan De Sanctis no chance.

It was a fitting strike to clinch the victory. Fabio Quagliarella soon added a third when De Sanctis failed to deal with a powerful near-post drive, then Juan Zuniga petulantly saw red, and Napoli’s misery was complete.

Walter Mazzarri’s side have so far failed to take advantage of Lazio’s indifferent form and their own free midweeks as their bid for third place has foundered. Juve’s own Wednesdays off could increasingly help if Milan progress in the Champions League, but it is their current form which gives them their best hope of Scudetto glory.

Since dropping four points behind the Rossoneri, the Bianconeri have responded with their best run of the season. This weekend they cut that lead in half, but they mustn’t take their foot off the accelerator. With Vidal at the wheel, there appears little chance of them giving up just yet. A scrapper, an architect, a leader and a goalscorer; the Chilean could well be key to their once-fading title hopes.

Milan beware ... A beautiful beast lurks over your shoulder.

De Gea is now playing with confidence

The Scot believes the 21-year-old has finally settled in England and also praised the resilience of Blackburn boss Steve Kean ahead of Monday night's clash at Ewood Park

Sir Alex Ferguson believes David de Gea is now playing with confidence after mistakes overshadowed the start of the Spaniard's career at Manchester United.

The €21.6 million summer signing from Atletico Madrid struggled to impose himself at Old Trafford following his arrival, however, with six consecutive wins in the Premier League, the last three also including clean sheets, Ferguson now feels the 21-year-old has finally adapted to life at the club.

"He got a grip of the situation," Sir Alex told reporters. "He did not let the mistakes get to him and now he is playing with confidence which is a great factor for any goalkeeper.

“The area where he has been criticised has been in dealing with aerial balls into the box. That last corner kick Blackburn had at Old Trafford [to allow Grant Hanley to score the winner], he should have dealt with that better.

“He knew that at the time and it is a situation he has addressed.”

Ferguson admitted De Gea faced a 'challenge' to adapt to the Premier League but insists the club were always aware of his strengths.

"He stood up to the situation; he knew it was a challenge. It took him time to adjust to the different ways of the English game and it showed," said Ferguson.

“But the other night, he produced one or two terrific punches when Fulham put the ball in the box at the start of the second half. We knew he had the ability and this is what we have seen."

A win against Blackburn Rovers on Monday night will send United five points clear of Manchester City in the title race.

Ferguson reserved kind words for his opposite number Steve Kean ahead of the game, noting his own resilience in the face of criticism after leading Blackburn to five wins and three draws in their past 13 league matches as they look to avoid relegation.

"He [Kean] has held his dignity very, very well," Sir Alex added.

"He deserves 100 per cent praise from everyone, including from a lot of his own supporters, who I am sure are saying 'I wish I hadn't done that', because he has certainly shown his mettle."

Preview: Bayern Munich - Marseille

Didier Deschamps' men visit the Allianz Arena on Tuesday, facing the uphill task of overcoming a two-goal deficit from the first leg in France against the Bavarian giants

Bayern Munich will have to do without vice-captain Bastian Schweinsteiger, who is serving a one-game suspension after picking up a yellow card in the first leg. Daniel Van Buyten is also sidelined after picking an injury against Borussia Monchengladbach in January.

Toni Kroos, Jerome Boateng, Luiz Gustavo and Thomas Muller will incur a suspension if they are booked on Tuesday.

For Olympique de Marseille, Steve Mandanda is set to return to the first team after serving his one-match ban for the first leg, but Souleymane Diawara will not be able to recover in time for the game against Bayern Munich.

Alou Diarra is suspended for the second leg, while Andre Ayew will have to once again play through the pain barrier as he is postponing surgery on his shoulder until the end of the season.

The Ghanaian will have to be careful not to pick a booking on Tuesday, together with Stephane M'Bia, Jeremy Morel and Morgan Amalfitano, as it will result in a ban for Olympique de Marseille's next game in the Champions League.

Preview: Barcelona - AC Milan

The Blaugrana need a win at home to ensure progression after a 0-0 draw in the first leg at San Siro last week that featured a fine defensive performance from the Rossoneri

With this Champions League tie finely balanced, Barcelona rested several players in the 2-0 win over Athletic Bilbao on Saturday night, but Carles Puyol is set to return to the starting XI against AC Milan with the Catalan captain in line to partner Gerard Pique in defence.

Xavi also sat out of the game at the weekend and is struggling with a muscular problem which means if he is not passed fit, Thiago could hold on to his midfield role. Defender Eric Abidal and striker David Villa, meanwhile, remain on the sidelines for the foreseeable future.

Left-back Adriano also made his comeback from injury against Athletic and is expected to feature while coach Pep Guardiola confirmed that playmaker Cesc Fabregas is available again after recovering from a back problem. The former Arsenal star is competing for a spot upfront with Pedro alongside Lionel Messi, who was denied by the Rossoneri defence in the first leg, and Alexis Sanchez.

Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri was hoping to have combative midfielder Mark van Bommel available for selection after he was suspended for the first leg, but the 34-year-old was not included in the 23-man squad due to injury so Massimo Ambrosini should once again feature.

Thiago Silva is still out due to a flexor muscle issue, so veteran Alessandro Nesta will again be in at centre-back following his impressive showing at San Siro last week.

A boost for the Rossoneri is that Alexandre Pato, who scored during the 2-2 draw at Camp Nou in the group stage, received treatment in the USA for his persistent muscle problems and has been selected for the match squad. The Brazilian is reportedly ready to feature, though it may be as a substitute with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Robinho looking likely to lead the line once again.

Sunday, April 1, 2012

Sir Alex Ferguson: Messi will only get better

The Red Devils' boss believes the Barcelona ace will continue to improve, and closer to home confirmed that Darren Fletcher is beginning to work on his fitness following illness

Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted that Lionel Messi’s potential development is "frightening".

Sir Alex explained that players develop considerably in their mid 20s, citing as examples Wayne Rooney and former United midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo, and highlighted the Argentine star’s age - and what more he can still produce.

The Scot told The Sunday Mirror: “Players develop and start to mature when they reach 25 or so. We’ve seen that with Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and others.

“But Messi has not even reached that age yet. It’s frightening what’s going to happen – he’s only 24!”

Meanwhile, United's Scottish midfielder Darren Fletcher has been missing for most of this season with an ulcerative colitis, but Sir Alex offered an update on his situation.

“Darren is coaching with the reserves and he’s going to start a programme quite soon to get his fitness up.

“The big push will be pre-season to try and get him back to the level he was at.”

Keep calm and carry on: Arsenal cannot afford another crisis of confidence in three-way battle for London supremacy

Arsene Wenger's team were below par against QPR but they must ensure it is only a temporary blip as Tottenham and Chelsea breathe down their necks in race for Champions League

It was difficult to judge this wimpish Arsenal display and not conclude that it was a return to the bad old away days.

The centre-backs were monstered by a classic British targetman, the midfield was out-manoeuvred by opponents who sniffed an opportunity and seized it, while healthy possession stats failed to amount to much.

A candid Arsene Wenger was in little mood to offer either excuses or an unconvincing public defence of his out-battled players.

“In the Premier League if you miss something on the commitment front you are beaten,” Wenger said afterwards. “That was the result. We can only congratulate QPR for their attitude and be unhappy with our own performance.”

Asked if complacency had been an issue, a furious-looking Wenger ignored the stonewalling tactic that most managers would have opted for. “It is difficult to say but why not? We played against a team who fight for survival. We missed something today. The pitch was bad but that doesn't explain our poor performance. The performance of QPR explains our poor performance.”

The manager was clearly trying to send a message to his players. After seven league wins on the bounce (aggregate scoreline: 22-7), the Frenchman wanted defeat to act as a mallet to the head for his players.

One dozy performance would have to be tolerated but returning to north London without any points should act as a wake-up call. “It is a good shock today to come back to what made our strength recently,” observed the Frenchman.

It would be re-writing history to say that Arsenal were anything other marvellous in March. Flair and adventure were fused with resilience and productivity. The performances were as immaculate as the pristine turf at Emirates Stadium.

It was not a boggy pitch or ill-fortune that did for Arsenal against QPR’s exceptional and exceptionally well-drilled players, who are finally beginning to benefit from the methods of Mark Hughes and his coaching staff.

Arsenal lost because QPR had the wherewithal to knock them out of their elegant stride and the attacking menace to hurt them.

One hyperbolic pundit (Robbie Savage) who knows him well ventured it was the greatest result of Hughes’ 13-year managerial career. That is taking it too far but, as one who witnessed both this and the famous comeback victory against Liverpool 10 days previously, the dismantling of an on-song Arsenal team with a performance where the whole was greater than the sum of its parts comfortably takes precedence as the best result and display of his fifth dugout assignment.

Arsenal should regard this defeat as a blip. There is no reason for it to escalate into a crisis.

Thomas Vermaelen, at fault for both of Rangers’ splendidly executed goals, will attempt to erase it immediately from his memory bank, as will Kieran Gibbs, Tomas Rosicky and the unfortunate Aaron Ramsey, who offered a lamentable display in a left flank role for which he is completely unsuited.

Others who have been at the heart of recent renaissance barely passed muster. Theo Walcott slammed in the equaliser but he was otherwise quiet, Mikel Arteta was polished enough but never truly shone, while even Bacary Sagna and Robin van Persie had off days.

The key for Arsenal is to stay cool in what is becoming an increasingly heated battle for the final two Champions League places.

Released from the shackles of the Andre Villas-Boas regime, there is a warm glow about Chelsea again. Tottenham can even jump back above their north London neighbours if they win by three clear goals against Swansea on Sunday.

Next up for Wenger’s team is spluttering Manchester City at Emirates Stadium next Sunday. With no cup competitions to distract or tire them, the focus for Arsenal is entirely on accumulating league points.

Chelsea must also visit N5, as will Wigan Athletic and Norwich City, but Arsenal should be confident of getting something at each of Wolves, Stoke City and then West Brom on the final day of the season.

The wheels have come off twice already for Wenger’s side this season – in the early batch of Premier League fixtures that will forever be associated with an Old Trafford scoreboard spelling out an 8-2 humiliation and, again, in January when they suffered defeats against Fulham, Swansea City and United.

If it occurs for a third time, it is unlikely the players will be walking out to the Champions League anthem next season.

Busy thinking of Barcelona, AC Milan let Juventus back into Serie A title race

The Rossoneri could see their pre-weekend lead at the top cut in half on Sunday after their 1-1 draw at Catania, which was just the latest missed opportunity ahead of a Barca clash

“It would be good if AC Milan could go as far as possible,” Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini said in the week, talking about the Rossoneri’s Champions League challenge, “especially at a moment when the deficit in the Uefa club ranking is so big.”

Co-efficients aside, the Bianconeri could do with their title rivals tying their midweeks up for a while yet after the latest preoccupied performance by the champions against Catania at the Massimino on Saturday allowed Juve back into the title race.

For the third time in four fixtures, Milan prepared for a meeting with Barcelona by dropping points in the league, strengthening the opinions of many that the Rossoneri could struggle to hold on to their league crown the further they go in Europe.

But it’s Barca in particular who have seemingly given the Diavolo the most to stress about. Six wins from six have preceded their other Champions League fixtures, but only Roma have been beaten ahead of a clash with the Catalans – and that came late in the day last week after a lethargic opening hour. The bigger nights clearly provide a bigger distraction.

They were never going to be about to get away with taking Catania lightly. The Elefanti have become well known for their magnificent home record in the six seasons since they gained promotion from Serie B, and this term under Vincenzo Montella they have only become more resolute.

The Rossoneri got off to the right kind of start, playing at their own pace early on, and fashioning chances for Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Urby Emanuelson. Even Robinho was back on form, and the Brazilian played a neat first-time pass to Ibra, made a clever run to take the return ball, and then wrong-footed Juan Pablo Carrizo to fire Milan ahead.

But Alejandro Gomez had shown with a couple of stinging shots, one of which thundered off the bar, that Catania still had a threat to offer, and a more lacklustre approach from Milan in the second half was suitably punished.

First Gomez found the net with an excellent header only to be denied by the offside flag, with Gonzalo Bergessio having strayed before flicking on to the winger. Then Nicolas Spolli turned the ball home after the Milan back line completely switched off at a corner.

It was the least the home side deserved in the midst of a 15-minute spell in which they caused Massimiliano Allegri’s men all sorts of trouble.

Robinho continued to cause trouble though, and very nearly put the Rossoneri back in front when rounding Carrizo, only to be denied right on the line by a magnificent clearance from Giovanni Marchese. Philippe Mexes had a header well saved by the keeper and Ibrahimovic slid a shot across the face of goal, but it would have been harsh on Montella’s side.

Mariano Izco could even have won it for the Sicilians during injury time, only to be denied by a block by Luca Antonini. It wasn’t the full-back’s first vital intervention of the week, nor of the match, and nobody has impressed more in the past few days for Milan than the 29-year-old.

Other more obvious stars have been less prevalent, with Ibrahimovic never looking likely to match his feat against Roma last weekend. There was much less control about the midfield too, with the half-paced Alberto Aquilani, Massimo Ambrosini and Antonio Nocerino being given the run-around by Izco and Sergio Almiron. While Milan attempted to coast the second half, Catania were full of energy.

But the draw gives Juve a great chance to close the gap at the top of Serie A to two points with a win over Napoli on Sunday evening at Juventus Stadium, with their recent form having looked a little more promising. Just when it appeared that Milan may be ploughing on to a 19th title, there’s a window open once more for the Bianconeri.

The champions remain the favourites, not least because Juventus have slipped up 14 times already this term. But while Tuesday night in Catalunya could be one of the great nights in Milan’s esteemed history on the continent, it could also be divisive in their bid to retain their league crown.

Chiellini and his colleagues have more than one reason to cheer on the Rossoneri on Tuesday.

Fabregas fit to face AC Milan

The Spain international has missed the Catalan outfit's last two games with a lower back problem but he is now set to make his return to action against the Rossoneri

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has revealed that Cesc Fabregas will be available for Tuesday night's Champions League quarter-final second leg clash with AC Milan at Camp Nou.

The former Arsenal midfielder was a surprise absentee from the Blaugrana starting line-up for the midweek meeting with the Rossoneri at San Siro, and also sat out Saturday night's La Liga win over Athletic Bilbao.

However, Guardiola has revealed that while Fabregas has been experiencing some pain in his lower back, he was rested for both games purely as a precautionary measure.

"Cesc had a problem in the sacrum [a large, triangular bone at the base of the spine] on Thursday," the Blaugrana boss told reporters after Saturday's 2-0 victory over Athletic.

"We've dealt with it and today he was better. So, even though we were forced to leave him out [against the Basques], he will there against Milan on Tuesday."

Barca's eagerly-awaited meeting with Milan at Camp Nou gets underway at 20.45CET, with the tie still scoreless after last Wednesday's clash at the Giuseppe Meazza.

Manchester City manager Mancini: I considered subbing Balotelli after five minutes of Sunderland draw

Italian manager was angered by the performances of his strikers and left bemused by an argument between Kolarov and the 21-year-old over who should take a second-half free kick

Roberto Mancini has revealed he considered bringing Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli off after just five minutes of their draw with Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium.

Balotelli led City's comeback in the 3-3 draw with two goals but Mancini insisted the 21-year-old should have contributed to the game earlier and lamented Edin Dzeko's lack of impact in the match.

When asked if he considered bringing Balotelli off, Mancini told reporters: "I thought this after five minutes but in the end he scored two goals.

“He didn’t play well. In a game like this the striker should be the difference, but not in the last two minutes.

“In the first half [he should] score two or three goals, because a player like Mario, like Dzeko should score two, three goals in a game like this. In this moment we need our strikers.

"In this moment we need Carlos [Tevez], a striker who can do different. I want this."

Mancini's was further frustrated as Aleksandar Kolarov and Balotelli squared up over who should take a free kick.

The Italian forward reacted angrily as Kolarov lined up to take the set-piece with club captain Vincent Kompany forced to intervene and push Balotelli away.

The Serb eventually took the free kick and Mancini insisted he would not accept another similar event.
“They know that on the ball it should be Mario and Ale [Kolarov], after they decide who shoots. It can happen on days like this, but this is the last time,” he concluded.

Match Report: Ajax 6-0 Heracles

Godenzonen move to league summit following comprehensive victory over the Almelo outfit

Ajax recorded a comprehensive 6-0 victory over Heracles on Sunday, with goals from Theo Janssen, Lorenzo Ebecillio, Christian Eriksen, Vurnon Anita, Siem de Jong, and Kolbeinn Sigthorsson bagging the hosts the full three points.

The reigning champions entered the tie in fine form, having emerged victorious from their last seven fixtures. The visitors, meanwhile, were buoyed by their recent progression to the final of the KNVB Cup at the expense of table-toppers AZ.

With their nearest title rivals Twente and PSV both having recorded wins earlier in the round, the onus was on Ajax to pick up the full three points. And with first spot, at least provisionally, up for grabs, it was the Amsterdam side who enjoyed the better of opening exchanges.

The hosts were quick to apply offensive pressure, coming within inches of an opener three times in the space of just a few minutes early on. Eriksen saw his shot beat the post by the smallest of margins, before Ozbiliz’s deflected attempt drizzled past the goal. Alderweireld then drew a solid save from Pasveer, with the keeper having to deny the Belgian after he was left unmarked on a corner.

Ajax skipper Vertonghen would provide the inspiration for the opener, sending Ebecillio into space after dodging several challenges in midfield. The Dutchman sent a lobbed delivery into the box, which Janssen somewhat scrappily converted.

The Amsterdam side continued to dominate proceedings up until the break, but lacked the incisiveness to create further chances. Substitute Lukoki used his electric pace to latch onto a through ball, but poor finishing from the youngster allowed the Heracles to clear. Nothing came of late pressure from the visitors, with the home defence remaining relatively untroubled.

Pasveer was called back into action minutes after the interval, with Alderweireld again sending in a dangerous header. The keeper could not be faulted for conceding Ajax’s second shortly after, being left helpless for Ebecilio’s diving header. The Dutchman did well to block De Jong’s initial attempt, but could do nothing to counteract the winger’s quick reaction to the rebound.

The third goal followed almost instantly, with Eriksen set to receive the plaudits for his side’s third. The Dane sent a rifling effort towards the goal after collecting the ball on the edge of the box, and watched the ball roll past Pasveer after a heavy deflection had sent the keeper the wrong way.

The reigning champions were in rampant form, with Anita getting his name on the scoresheet in the 62nd minute. The midfielder linked up sumptuously with compatriot De Jong, with a simple one-two putting the Dutchman in a position to slot home only his second domestic goal of the season.

And it was Anita’s provider who would find the next goal, with De Jong netting the fifth of the afternoon. The deputy forward coolly latched onto a long ball from Eriksen, piling further misery on the visitors with the deftest of touches.

Janssen unselfishly allowed Sigthorsson to complete the rout, with the midfielder teeing up the Iceland international minutes before time. The striker had not appeared for the Amsterdam side for six months due to an ankle injury, but marked his return by getting his name on the score-sheet and finishing off a crushing victory.

The win sees the reigning champions move provisionally to the top of the table, with AZ set to play later today. Heracles meanwhile squander the opportunity to temporarily move into 10th, though the Almelo side remain safe from relegation.

Zola to replace Reja as Lazio coach - report

The Stadio Olimpico side will supposedly part company with their current trainer at the end of the 2011-12 campaign, with the former Italy international taking over

Lazio are ready to part company with head coach Edy Reja at the end of the season and have lined up Gianfranco Zola as his replacement, Corriere dello Sport reports.

Reja has guided the Biancoceleste to third spot in the Serie A table, but they have been struggling to find their best form in recent weeks.

The Rome side have lost three of their last four league games, and face stiff competition from Napoli and Udinese in the race for third spot.

Reja attempted to resign from his position as head coach earlier this season, but Lazio president Claudio Lotito refused to accept his decision to step down.

Nevertheless, Lotito has now supposedly had enough of Lazio's inconsistency under Reja, and will give the 66-year-old the sack after their last game of the season.

The Lazio supremo has already made a decision on who will replace Reja, as he considers Zola to the perfect man for the job.

The former Chelsea forward has been out of work since getting the sack at West Ham United in the summer of 2010.