IP addresses are NOT logged in this forum so there's no point asking. Please note that this forum is full of homophobes, racists, lunatics, schizophrenics & absolute nut jobs with a smattering of geniuses, Chinese chauvinists, Moderate Muslims and last but not least a couple of "know-it-alls" constantly sprouting their dubious wisdom. If you believe that content generated by unsavory characters might cause you offense PLEASE LEAVE NOW! Sammyboy Admin and Staff are not responsible for your hurt feelings should you choose to read any of the content here. The OTHER forum is HERE so please stop asking.
Barcelona join Chelsea in race for Porto's Hulk - report
Pep Guardiola has allegedly named the in-demand attacker as a requirement for him to stay at Camp Nou as the imposing Brazilian appears to be seeking a new challenge
Jan 15, 2012 10:30:00 AM
Barcelona are plotting a summer move for Porto attacker Hulk, La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests.
The Brazil international joined Porto from Japanese side Tokyo Verdy in 2008 and has become one of the most sought-after players in the continent with his performances for the Europa League holders.
Chelsea have been mooted as Hulk's principal suitor, but fresh speculation claims that Barca coach Pep Guardiola is keen to take to the powerful striker to Camp Nou.
The 40-year-old trainer has yet to commit his future to the Catalan side beyond the end of this season, when his contract expires, but it is reported that he has told the club's hierarchy that he will sign a new deal if Hulk is recruited.
The 25-year-old attacker, who has scored 12 goals in 24 competitive appearances this season, has a €100 million release clause attached to his contract, which expires in 2016.
He has refused to rule out a move away from Porto, but the striker's agent has guaranted that his client will not force an exit from the Estadio do Dragao outfit.
Real Madrid's Gonzalo Higuain: Jose Mourinho is a great motivator The Argentina international has taken the time to praise his coach following their comeback win on Saturday
Barcelona's Pep Guardiola: Sergio Busquets is the best defensive midfielder in the world The 40-year-old has taken the time to praise the Spain international and considers him to be the best in his position
Sevilla's Diego Perotti involved in tussle with fan after Espanyol draw The Andalusians' fans have made no secret of their frustration with the club's recent results and the Argentine was the latest player to take part in a scuffle with a supporter
Barcelona join Chelsea in race for Porto's Hulk - report Pep Guardiola has allegedly named the in-demand attacker as a requirement for him to stay at Camp Nou as the imposing Brazilian appears to be seeking a new challenge
Mallorca's Joaquin Caparros: We lacked luck against Real Madrid The Spanish coach praised the attitude of his men despite letting a first-half lead slip and lamented that the referee wrongly ruled out Victor's effort for offside
La Liga wrap: Messi brace helps Barca beat gutsy Betis 16 January 2012
Barcelona conceded at home for the first time this La Liga season as they defeated Real Betis 4-2 on Sunday.The hosts took a two-goal lead early in the match at Camp Nou thanks to strikes from Xavi Hernandez and Lionel Messi.The first arrived after just nine minutes, when Isaac Cuenca played a clever through-ball for Cesc Fabregas from the edge of the 18-yard box.
Former Arsenal man Fabregas hit the post with his shot, but his Spain international team-mate Xavi made no mistake, slotting the ball home on the rebound.Two minutes later, Alexis Sanchez worked his way up the left flank, and sent in a looping cross for Messi, who tapped beyond Betis goalkeeper Casto Espinosa.
The promoted visitors might have been expected to crumble after going behind so early, but instead they managed what no other team had done in the league so far this season - breaching the champions' defence in front of their own fans.In the 32nd minute, Jorge Molina found Salvo Sevilla on the edge of the box.Midfielder Sevilla hit a weak effort toward goal but Ruben Castro redirected beyond Barca goalkeeper Victor Valdes to bring his side back into the game.
In the second half, Betis rose to the challenge, continuing to outplay their opponents and managing to equalise. On a rapid counterattack, substitute Roque Santa Cruz found Molina on the left.The quick forward advanced up the flank and returned the ball to Santa Cruz, who unleashed a shot from outside the box, beating Valdes for a second time.
Barcelona upped their temp in response and, to their credit, Betis initially withstood the onslaught.But in the 70th minute defender Mario received his marching orders for a second yellow card.Barca capitalised on the man advantage five minutes later, as Chile international Sanchez struck a weak effort from outside the box, enough to beat Casto and make it 3-2 to Barca.
Soon after, Jose Dorado was punished for a handball in his own box, with Messi converting the resulting penalty.The win sees second-placed Barca stay four points back from league leaders Real Madrid, while Betis are 11th.
In other matches, a brace from Radamel Falcao helped Atletico Madrid defeat Villarreal 3-0 at home.Two penalties from Christian Stuani were enough for Racing Santander to win 2-0 away to Osasuna.Fernando Amorebieta and Fernando Llorente scored in the first half as Athletic Bilbao beat 10-man Levante 3-0 at home.
And Oscar Trejo's 92nd-minute winner earned Sporting Gijon a dramatic 2-1 win at home Malaga.
Guardiola to appeal Iniesta yellow 16 January 2012
Barcelona will appeal the yellow card issued to Andres Iniesta during Sunday's 4-2 victory over Real Betis, according to Pep Guardiola.Spain international Iniesta was booked for diving inside the Betis area midway through the second half at Camp Nou following contact with Jefferson Montero.
Guardiola, who feels his team were denied a legitimate spot kick, confirmed after the game that Barca will attempt to have the booking rescinded."It's not a penalty because the referee hasn't seen it," Guardiola said."But we will appeal the Iniesta card."
After seeing Barca give up a two-goal lead before recovering to win the match, Guardiola dismissed any suggestions his players had been guilty of complacency."If there's something that this team does not do, it's ease up," he said."This is a consequence of not wanting to lose what one has gained over the years.""They would have to do something very wrong for you to doubt their commitment."
While Barca are currently five points behind La Liga leaders Real Madrid, Guardiola is also of the opinion that the Catalans have had a 'very good first round' of the season, saying 'this only happens if you work hard and behave as you need to behave'.
Turning his attention to the first leg of the Copa del Rey quarter-final showdown with Real on Wednesday, Guardiola stated that Barca will try to 'play the best game possible' and will be going all out for goals because 'we know scoring away from home is much more complicated'.Barca travel to the Santiago Bernabeu before hosting Real at Camp Nou seven days later.
Barcelona's Xavi: Sometimes the referees benefit us and sometimes they hurt us
The Spanish playmaker did not give much importance to the recent mistakes from the match officials and noted his side will attack in Wednesday's Clasico
Barcelona’s Eric Abidal visits young boy with brain tumour
After surviving his own bout with cancer, the Frenchman visited a youngster battling the illness and provided him with a rolex
Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi & a little-known Latvian - the race begins now for the European Golden Shoe
Who will emerge victorious in 2011-12? There is a familiar battle at the top, but there could be a surprise challenger too
Real Madrid's Pepe ready to play in midfield against Barcelona
The powerful centre-half previously impressed in midfield against the Catalans, and is ready to play out of position again on Wednesday evening at the Santiago Bernabeu
Real Madrid midfielder Esteban Granero's agent confirms Liverpool interest
The 24-year-old has found opportunities to shine at the Santiago Bernabeu limited, and could leave Jose Mourinho's side in light of interest from the Anfield outfit
Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo: I don't feel pressure against Barcelona
The Portuguese attacker has made it clear that he will prepare for Wednesday's match just like he does for every other game, despite coming under recent criticism
Barcelona's Andres Iniesta angry with Real Betis booking: 'I did not dive'
The attacking midfielder has expressed his dismay with Sunday's yellow card, but was pleased with the eventual outcome of the game after a brave fightback by the Andalucians
Barcelona's Sergio Busquets: We were superior to Real Betis in the second half
The holding midfielder praised his team-mates' attacking response, which saved the Blaugrana's blushes after they threw away a two-goal lead against the Andalucians
Barcelona's Pep Guardiola keen to appeal Andres Iniesta's yellow card for diving against Real Betis
The Spanish champions' midfield maestro was booked for simulation in the penalty box even though it appeared that he had been fouled by Jefferson Montero
Barcelona’s Eric Abidal visits young boy with brain tumour
After surviving his own bout with cancer, the Frenchman visited a youngster battling the illness and provided him with a rolex
Jan 16, 2012 1:57:00 PM
By Enis Koylu
A young boy suffering from a brain tumour has cited Barcelona defender Eric Abidal as his inspiration in his fight against the disease.
Abidal was diagnosed with a tumour on his liver in March, but after successfully undergoing surgery, he returned to first-team action before the end of last season and featured in the Champions League win over Manchester United.
"Daddy, buy me his jersey. I'll fight like him and win my own Champions League," the child said according to his father, J. Garcia Serra, in declarations made to Marca.
He was soon granted a hospital visit from Abidal and Garcia Serra went on to speak of the emotion in the room after the former Lyon man's appearance produced tears from his son.
"He [Abidal] was affectionate, gentle, sympathetic and didn't stop hugging him for 10 minutes. He said: 'Come, come, brother, I'm here to cheer. I'm also fighting this disease and I'm glad to set up a foundation for sick kids.'"
Abidal left the child with an engraved Rolex watch.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi & a little-known Latvian - the race begins now for the European Golden Shoe
Who will emerge victorious in 2011-12? There is a familiar battle at the top, but there could be a surprise challenger too
Jan 16, 2012 1:00:00 PM
By Keir Radnedge
The mainstream European season is only at the midway point but already Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo is chasing down the early-term leaders in the ESM (European Sports Media) Golden Shoe rankings.
The Real Madrid star, who managed to beat Leo Messi for at least this particular prize last term, did not register a goal at the weekend in Madrid’s 2-1 comeback win at Malaga. But as long as Madrid keep on winning in La Liga he is virtually guaranteed to take this classic personal duel right to the wire in May.
Last season Ronaldo hit a Spanish Liga record of 40 goals after winning the Golden Shoe for the first time in 2007-08 with 31 goals in the English Premier League for Manchester United. Barcelona’s Messi was runner-up with 31 goals and Bayern Munich’s Mario Gomez was third with 28.
Only one winner in the last 14 years since the competition was reorganised to focus on achievement in the major leagues has topped 40 goals and that was Sporting CP's Brazilian centre-forward Mario Jardel. He fired home 42 goals in the Portuguese championship in 2001-02.
That was the third season in succession in which La Liga had provided the winner after Atletico Madrid's Diego Forlan with 32 goals in 2008-09 and then Barcelona's Leo Messi with 34 goals in 2009-10.
Golden generation | Messi shows off the award he picked up last year
The Golden Shoe (or Golden Boot) has been up for grabs since the early 1960s when sportswear company Adidas teamed up with the Paris weekly France Football to come up with a prize which rewarded the overall leading marksman in European league football at the end of each season.
This was fine while the legendary likes of Benfica’s Eusebio and Bayern Munich’s Gerd Muller in West Germany were winning the competition. But the sponsor’s executives were less than happy when Cypriot Sotiris Kaiafas turned up as winner in the mid-1970s. Mild irritation grew to serious concern when various Bulgarian and Romanian winners cornered the award amid reports of match manipulation.
Corruption is football is nothing new. The final straw was the victory of Dinamo Bucharest’s Romania striker Rodion Camataru in 1987. He scored 20 of his 44 goals in the last six matches of the season as Dinamo swapped match points to relegation strugglers against goals for their centre-forward.
France Football pulled out at this point and the award was put on ice until Adidas accepted a revival proposal from the European Sports Magazines association which included one major football publication from all the major continental nations plus London-based World Soccer.
They came up with a formula which abandoned the simple goals total system and applied a multiplier to a player’s goals dependent on his club’s ranking in the UEFA coefficient system. Thus a goal in Spain is worth twice as much as in, say, Cyprus, with goals in most other countries falling in between and rating a multiplier of 1.5.
Hence Cristiano Ronaldo, last season, topped the table with 40 goals and thus 80 points. No player before him had ever reached such a high points total.
2011-12 GOLDEN SHOE STANDINGS
<tbody>
</tbody>
POS
PLAYER
CLUB
GOALS
POINTS
1
Aleksandrs Cekulajevs
JK Trans Narva
46
46
2
Cristiano Ronaldo
Real Madrid
21
42
3
Lionel Messi
Barcelona
19
38
4
Seydou Doumbia
CSKA Moscow
24
36
-
Robin van Persie
Arsenal
18
36
6
Mario Gomez
Bayern Munich
16
32
7
Burak Yilmaz
Trabzonspor
21
31.5
8
Demba Ba
Newcastle
15
30
-
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar
Schalke
15
30
10
Sergio Aguero
Manchester City
14
28
-
Olivier Giroud
Montpellier
14
28
-
Gonzalo Higuain
Real Madrid
14
28
-
Lukas Podolski
Koln
14
28
<tbody>
</tbody>
Standings correct as of Monday, January 16, 2012
The Golden Shoe runs in line with the traditional western European season calendar, i.e. autumn to spring. But countries which run spring-to-autumn are not excluded and all their players’ goals are counted for the season which finishes midway through the ‘standard’ term.
This is about to throw up an extra complication for the ESM magazines to consider because of the Russian decision to run an 18-month season to bring the country into line with western Europe. How will the Russian league top scorer’s goals be assessed?
A decision is awaited and cannot long be delayed, not least because one of the current leaders is CSKA Moscow’s Seydou Doumbia who had scored 24 goals (at 1.5) for 36 points at the Russian winter break.
No Russian club has ever boasted the winner of the Golden Boot. If the season in its entirety is taken into account then Ronaldo and Messi may find a surprise contender stealing their thunder come May.
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola confirms Jose Manuel Pinto will start against Real Madrid
The 37-year-old goalkeeper has made just one previous appearance for the Catalans this season, but will start between the posts at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday
Hristo Stoichkov: Real Madrid cannot beat Barcelona over two legs
The former Camp Nou favourite has great respect for Jose Mourinho, but he feels that the Portuguese coach's team will struggle in their two-legged clash with their great rivals
Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo: It's important to have a good image off the field
The Portugal international admits that he tries to be as fashionable as possible and has an easy time controlling his weight
'Ronaldo will score but Real Madrid can't keep Messi quiet for Barcelona'
Jose Mourinho's side take on their rivals at the Bernabeu on Wednesday in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final, with the most pivotal personal clashes singled out
Villarreal's Borja Valero keen to push through Atletico Madrid move - report
The 27-year-old was reportedly close to joining the Rojiblancos last summer and it seems he is not giving up on a 'dream' move just yet
Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo needs to be spoiled and pampered, says Hugo Sanchez
The Mexico legend is of the opinion that the 2011 Fifa Ballon d'Or runner-up needs the affection and support of the home fans in order to showcase his talents
Barcelona's Dani Alves: We really enjoy playing against Real Madrid
The Brazilian right-back is eagerly anticipating the upcoming Copa del Rey clash against the 2011 cup winners and expects the showdown to be evenly balanced regardless of form
'Their collective energy can destroy the Goliath' - the psychological problems Real Madrid must overcome in order to beat Barcelona
One of the world's top sports psychologists, Rhonda Cohen, provides her expert opinion on why Jose Mourinho's men struggle to meet the challenge of facing the Catalan giants
Real Madrid's Pepe doubtful for Barcelona Copa del Rey clash
The Portugal international has picked up a knock, and could consequently miss Wednesday's cup game against the Catalan giants in the final-eight
Everton's Royston Drenthe hits out at Real Madrid for 'complete lack of respect'
The Dutchman has revealed his dismay with the way his compatriots were treated at the Santiago Bernabeu in the past and believes Wesley Sneijder is more creative than Kaka
Eric Abidal signs new contract with Barcelona until 2013 with option for a further two years
After months of negotiations, the French defender has finally put pen to paper on a deal that could ultimately be extended until the summer of 2015
Barcelona's Aliaksandr Hleb: I've wasted the best years of my career
The former Arsenal midfielder is back at Camp Nou after yet another unsuccessful loan spell, this time at Wolfsburg, who have turned down chance to sign the Belarusian
Barcelona president Sandro Rosell hints at Neymar signing in 2014
The Champions League holders will attempt to land the Brazilian in 2014 as the 19-year-old does not want to switch clubs before the expiry of his contract
Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo: The Premier League is more competitive than La Liga
The former Manchester United star pointed out that there are many differences between football in England and Spain
Real Madrid's Alvaro Arbeloa to miss Copa del Rey Clasico against Barcelona after losing appeal
The Spaniard will not be able to take part in Wednesday's Clasico after los Blancos lost their appeal against the player's first yellow card at Malaga
Copa del Rey Preview: Real Madrid - Barcelona Jose Mourinho will be hoping to draw first blood in the first leg of the Copa del Rey quarter-final tie versus their Catalan rivals at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday
Jose Mourinho will be without the suspended Alvaro Arbeloa who failed in his attempt to get his one-match ban overturned. Fabio Coentrao is expected to deputise at right-back. Pepe is a doubt with a thigh strain although the Portuguese defender is expected to pass a late fitness test.
Sami Khedira is definitely ruled out of the game after spraining his ankle last week against Malaga so Lassana Diarra is in line to keep his place in the Madrid starting line-up.
Jose Callejon should retain his place in the first XI due to Angel di Maria picking up a fresh injury in training.
Barcelona will be without Seydou Keita, who is away at the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations while Andreu Fontas looks unlikely to appear again this season after picking up a serious knee injury in the Copa del Rey win over Osasuna last week.
Pedro also picked up a knock in the game and appears to have been ruled out while Pep Guardiola will be without David Villa and Ibrahim Afellay who have long-term injuries.
Dani Alves looks set to return to the starting line-up while Cesc Fabregas is expected to continue his role upfront alongside Lionel Messi and Alexis Sanchez. Jose Pinto will start the game in goal, with the experienced goalkeeper continuing his run in the domestic cup.
Kaka denies Paris Saint-Germain agreement and commits future to Real Madrid
The Parc des Princes club are reportedly still hopeful of landing the Brazilian in January, but the ex-Milan playmaker has committed his future to los Blancos
Villarreal interested in Tottenham's Giovani dos Santos - report
The Mexico international has continually been linked with a move away from his current club and could be on his way back to Spain
Barcelona target Jordi Alba: I want to stay at Valencia
The Spain international has been linked with a move to the European champions, but has admitted that he has spoken to his agent and wants to remain at Unai Emery's side
Sir Alex Ferguson, Pep Guardiola & the world's Top 10 best paid football managers in pictures
From Maradona to Mourinho, we've compiled a list of the bosses earning the greatest pay-packets in the game, with the United chief set to accept a bumper new deal at Old Trafford
Jose Mourinho is a great psychologist; he shows that in the difficult moments, says Real Madrid's Gonzalo Higuain ahead of Barcelona clash
The Argentine striker believes his coach has prepared the team perfectly for Wednesday night's Clasico in the Copa del Rey, but believes either team could win
Lionel Messi to wear new adidas boots for Barcelona in Wednesday's Clasico with Real Madrid
The three-times Fifa Ballon d'Or winner is looking to continue his excellent record against the Santiago Bernabeu outfit, and will sport new 'smarter' footwear on Wednesday
Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho: How many titles do I need to avoid being questioned?
The Portuguese has hit back at his critics, and stated that the silverware he has picked up as trainer is enough proof of his tactical prowess and ability
Sevilla confirm talks with Maritimo over Baba Diawara
The 24-year-old Senegalese striker, who has hit 10 goals in 15 Portuguese Liga games his season, appears to be on his way to the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan
Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho: How many titles do I need to avoid being questioned? The Portuguese has hit back at his critics, and stated that the silverware he has picked up as trainer is enough proof of his tactical prowess and ability
Jan 18, 2012 8:17:00 AM
By Stefan Coerts
Jose Mourinho - Real Madrid
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has expressed his frustration with the lack of respect for his achievements of the past, and feels he has won enough titles to avoid being questioned for his decisions.
The Portuguese trainer was criticised for some of his recent tactical rotations ahead of the first leg of Madrid's Copa del Rey quarter-final against Barcelona, and was far from happy with the line of questioning.
"How many titles do I have to win in order to avoid being questioned for what I do? Tell me what I have to do to satisfy you," Mourinho said at a press conference.
"If I field Karim Benzema as my striker, you all ask about Gonzalo Higuain, but if he plays, you want to know why Benzema is out.
"If I play Pepe in midfield, you all stress he's better at the back, but if he plays in defence, you suggest I use him in midfield."
Wednesday's Copa del Rey match at the Santiago Bernabeu kicks off at 22.00CET.
Lionel Messi to wear new adidas boots for Barcelona in Wednesday's Clasico with Real Madrid The three-times Fifa Ballon d'Or winner is looking to continue his excellent record against the Santiago Bernabeu outfit, and will sport new 'smarter' footwear on Wednesday
Jan 18, 2012 9:05:00 AM
By Gareth McKnight
Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi is set to wear a new pair of adidas F50 adizero boots for Wednesday's Clasico fixture against Real Madrid.
The diminutive forward wore a golden pair of the same footwear after being awarded the Fifa Ballon d'Or award earlier this month, but will sport a new blue and red version in the Copa del Rey quarter final first leg.
The new design is exclusive to the South American superstar, and will also be a testament to the fact that the game in the Spanish capital will be his 300th appearance for the Camp Nou outfit.
The F50 boots are recognised as leading, innovative footwear and are lightweight at only 165 grams.
They are also fitted with miCoach technology, which can track how far a player has ran over a selected period of time, maximum speed and number of sprints per match, amongst other statistics.
Messi will not be the only player to wear the adidas model at the Santiago Bernabeu, as Karim Benzema and Fabio Coentrao are also set to wear F50's, albeit in different designs.
The Argentine's boots have 'Fifa Ballon d'Or Player of the Tear' engraved into the lining however, and Messi will hope that they can lead Barcelona to another victory over their bitter rivals.
Sir Alex Ferguson, Pep Guardiola & the world's Top 10 best paid football managers in pictures From Maradona to Mourinho, we've compiled a list of the bosses earning the greatest pay-packets in the game, with the United chief set to accept a bumper new deal at Old Trafford
Jan 18, 2012 9:30:00 AM
By Jonathan Birchall
With players often derided for their huge salaries, it's easy to forget that the men that coach them are similarly rewarded to an often unimaginable extent for their efforts, and with our list including individuals from Dubai to Brazil, it's clear that the managerial fraternity are being blessed with plenty of buck for their bang.
The following list sees a few surprise inclusions, but do you think the lucky 10 are deserving of their astronomical loots? If not, let us know which bosses are more worthy of the biggest bucks that the game has to offer in our comments section below.
10. Roberto Mancini, Manchester City | £3.8m a year
<tbody>
</tbody>
9. Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United | £4m a year *
<tbody>
</tbody>
* After he puts pen to paper on the new contract offer which is on the table, Sir Alex will jump up to a £6.5m-a-year basic salary plus a £1m bonus and sit fourth in the list as Britain's highest paid manager.
8. Andre Villas-Boas, Chelsea | £4.3m a year
<tbody>
</tbody>
7. Luiz Felipe Scolari, Palmeiras | £4.4m a year
<tbody>
</tbody>
6. Carlo Ancelotti, Paris Saint-Germain | £4.9m a year
Salzburg agree deal with Barcelona for Jonathan Soriano
The 26-year-old has agreed to a move to the Austrian side and will sign his contract after undergoing a routine medical on Thursday
Bernd Schuster: Pepe is a different person when he puts on a Real Madrid shirt
The German says that the defender's behaviour in Wednesday's Clasico does not reflect what type of man he is off the field but reckons the Portuguese goes too far sometimes
Barcelona's Gerard Pique: We do not have a player like Pepe in our dressing room
The Spain international slammed the Real Madrid man for stamping on Lionel Messi's hand in Wednesday's Clasico and said he wants to see the incident analysed by the RFEF
It would have been easy to stay at Barcelona, claims Paris Saint-Germain's Maxwell
The Brazilian full-back says he could have happily remained at Camp Nou, but chose to switch to the French capital for the prospect of forming part of Carlo Ancelotti's revolution
Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho: Winning the league without beating Barcelona would feel great
Los Blancos have yet to defeat their Catalan rivals in any competition so far this season but their Portuguese boss would not care so long as they ended up lifting the title
Former Real Madrid star Guti argues Wayne Rooney was in no position to judge Pepe over Clasico stamp
The Spaniard, who is currently without a club, feels that it was somewhat hypocritical of the England striker to lash out at the Portuguese for his act of petulance
Will winning La Liga but losing the Barcelona Clasicos be enough to save Jose Mourinho his Real Madrid job?
The Portuguese saw his side lose once again to the eternal enemy and there are now question marks hanging over his future with the capital club
Ricardo Carvalho admits Real Madrid never recovered from Carles Puyol equaliser in Copa del Rey defeat by Barcelona
The veteran Portuguese defender, who was making his return from injury, admitted that his Spanish rival's headed goal effectively decided the game in the visitors' favour
Sergio Ramos bemused by Copa del Rey defeat to Barcelona and calls on Real Madrid to focus on winning La Liga
The Spain international was left bewildered by Los Blancos' latest loss at the Santiago Bernabeu to their great rivals, and admitted they now face a difficult task at Camp Nou
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola admits that Alexis Sanchez won his heart with performance against Real Madrid
The former Udinese winger has been gradually improving since his arrival at Camp Nou last summer, and his boss believes that the Catalans have made a special signing
Barcelona's Xavi hails Carles Puyol's 'psychological goal' against Real Madrid in Copa del Rey clash
The veteran midfielder hinted that the Catalans feel that they have a mental edge over their great rivals after their latest victory in the Spanish capital
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho accepts blame for his side's Copa del Rey defeat to Barcelona
The Portuguese took responsibility for his side's 2-1 loss at the Bernabeu and revealed he would look at the incident involving his controversial central defender
Manchester United's Wayne Rooney labels Real Madrid's Pepe 'an idiot' for Clasico stamp on Barcelona's Lionel Messi
The England striker, who is no stranger to acts of petulance himself, admonished the Portugal international for failing to control his temper
'Copa del Rey tie is not over, Real Madrid will keep fighting,' says Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola
The Catalan boss has stressed that there is still much to do against his team's eternal rivals, and has stressed that the Blaugrana must now concentrate on their Liga obligations
Real Madrid's Iker Casillas: Our marking on set-pieces let us down in Barcelona Copa del Rey loss
The Spain international believes his team's lack of discipline on the corner that led to Carles Puyol's equaliser is the reason behind Wednesday's Clasico loss
Espanyol in advanced talks over £3m deal to sign Ajax striker Mounir El Hamdaoui
The Morocco international's agent has been in Barcelona in the last 24 hours to broker a deal for the out-of-favour forward who has not featured for the Dutch side this season
Barcelona's Jonathan Soriano set for Salzburg switch - report
The Spanish striker appears poised to sign for the Austrian side as he looks to find regular action after failing to prove his worth at Camp Nou
Thibaut Courtois: I want to stay at Atletico Madrid for one more year
The 19-year-old has insisted that he wants to stay at the Spanish capital club for another season before trying to make his mark at Chelsea
Sevilla's Frederic Kanoute linked with Middle East switch - report
The 34-year-old former Olympique Lyonnais, Tottenham and West Ham striker could be the latest big name to move to the Middle East
Will winning La Liga but losing the Barcelona Clasicos be enough to save Jose Mourinho his Real Madrid job? The Portuguese saw his side lose once again to the eternal enemy and there are now question marks hanging over his future with the capital club
Jan 19, 2012 10:30:00 AM
By Ben Hayward | Spanish Football Editor
Another year, another Clasico. But 2012's first meeting with Barcelona ended in an all-too-similar fashion for Real Madrid and their fans, with a 2-1 defeat at the hands of their fiercest foes on Wednesday night.
There was a sense of deja-vu as Madrid took an early lead, as they had done in December's match at the Santiago Bernabeu, but were unable to hold on as Barca bounced back and showed their superiority in the second half. Once again, Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid had taken the initiative. But once again they had flattered to deceive.
Mourinho was brought to Madrid with the specific mission of breaking Barca's stranglehold at home and in Europe, but after disputing nine Clasico clashes with the Catalans, the Portuguese appears no closer to cracking the code. He may yet win La Liga, but will even that be enough to save the Portuguese his job at the end of the current campaign?
In his first Clasico, Mourinho suffered his worst-ever defeat as coach, losing 5-0 to the Catalans in a one-sided encounter at Camp Nou. And although credit was restored as Mourinho's men beat Barca to win the Copa del Rey last April, the Catalans claimed the biggest prizes: La Liga and the Champions League, the latter following a convincing two-legged semi-final victory over the capital club in April and May.
This term, however, things were supposed to be different. Mourinho's much-heralded second-season improvement was supposed to see Madrid step up their game and finally Barca toppled. But so far, things haven't exactly gone according to plan.
A different philosophy | Barca chose Guardiola over Mourinho in 2008
The 2011-12 campaign began with the Spanish Supercopa and it was a positive performance by Madrid in both legs, but even with the pertinent preparation in pre-season and arriving in superior shape to their rivals, Mourinho's men saw themselves edged out 5-4 on aggregate.
And there was more optimism ahead of December's La Liga clash at the Bernabeu, with Madrid effectively able to open up a nine-point advantage with a victory. But after the early gift of a goal on 22 seconds, Barca once again assumed control and triumphed 3-1.
It was similar story last night, too, and the frustration was tangible at the final whistle as jeers ran around the famous home of European football's most successful side.
Down in the press room, Mourinho accepted full responsibility for the reverse. There were no excuses or protests from the Portuguese this time; they had bean beaten and that was that. But he had heard the murmurs of discontent from the crowd, and is having to deal with a prickly press pack, too, after this latest Clasico calamity.
I have a lot of confidence and I don't think about being sacked. Four years of contract is enough to win, to build a strong team for the present and future
- Mourinho after he was unveiled at Madrid
<tbody>
</tbody>
After the game, Marca ran a report entitled "Mourinho, that's not how you do it either" while Spain's best-selling newspaper also published a video montage in which Real fans called for the Portuguese coach to step down.
Also, in the build-up to the game, a journalist from the network's radio station had questioned the Portuguese in the pre-match press conference. "How many titles do I have to win in order to avoid being questioned?" the Portuguese responded.
The answer wasn't clear.
The Mourinho message last night, however, was clear: attentions will be switched back to La Liga at the weekend. Yes, they would try to overturn the tie in Barcelona next Wednesday, but for now the Primera Division takes priority. And would he be happy to win it without beating Barca? "Yes," he said. "I'd feel great."
Madrid lead Barca by five points with 18 games played and La Liga looks theirs for the taking, even though another trip to Camp Nou awaits between now and the end of the season. By then, the teams' fate in this cup tie will long have been decided, while the fierce foes may meet again in the Champions League, too.
The responsibility is mine, especially when the team loses. Victory has many fathers; defeat only one. I have been in football a long time and I understand this
- Jose Mourinho last night
<tbody>
</tbody>
A league win would represent a satisfactory outcome in Mourinho's second season at the Santiago Bernabeu, and it would see him claim a title in a fourth different country, having racked up championship successes in Portugal, England and Italy already.
That is a personal goal for the Portuguese and once attained, he may decide he is better off elsewhere. Or the decision may even be made for him. Madrid have dispensed with winning coaches before, famously axing Jupp Heynckes after he had won the Champions League in 1998, sacking Vicente del Bosque following a period of sustained success a few years later and then firing Fabio Capello after the Italian ended a trophy drought by winning La Liga in 2006-07.
Capello's case is a similar one to that of Mourinho. The Italian's Madrid side played pragmatically, but lacked style and substance. It was not the Madrid way. And the same thing can be said for Mourinho. At the moment, Madrid fans would tolerate inferior possession and even poorer play if it meant beating Barcelona on a regular basis.
The problem is that it doesn't and Wednesday night's match, although played with something of a makeshift line-up by Madrid in terms of the defence, showed the Catalans' control may yet remain for some time to come. And if that pattern continues to the end of the season, winning La Liga may just be Mourinho's parting gift to the Madrid cause.
La Liga preview: Barca hit top form ahead of Malaga trip
19 January 2012
Barcelona may enter this weekend's round of La Liga fixtures with a psychological advantage after beating Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey.League champions Barca came from a goal down to beat Cup holders Real 2-1 in their quarter-final first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday.
It was a third win for the Catalan giants from four meetings with Real this season, including the two-legged Super Cup in August.Several minor slip-ups in La Liga mean Barca find themselves five points back from Jose Mourinho's league leaders.But their dominance over Real in individual contests cannot be denied, and it remains to be seen what impact the Copa del Rey duel, if any, will have on the destiny of the championship.
Fresh from their latest success in the capital, Barca travel to La Rosaleda to face Malaga on Saturday.The Qatar-owned club spent big in the off-season as they seek to make an impression on the traditional balance of power in Spain. But those expectations are yet to be fulfilled - Malaga sit eighth just past the midway point of the season, and are without a win from their past six matches in all competitions.
They went down 2-1 away to Sporting Gijon last Sunday, and exited the Copa del Rey with a 4-2 aggregate defeat to Real in the round of 16. As for Real, Mourinho's team will look to forget their latest disappointment against Barca by ensuring they retain their buffer at the top with victory away to Athletic Bilbao.
In other matches, third-placed Valencia host Osasuna at the Mestalla.The team one place below Valencia, Levante, go in search of their first win in three matches away to bottom side Real Zaragoza.European regulars Villarreal are enduring a nightmare campaign, and will look to improve on second bottom in the league when they visit Sporting Gijon.
Europa League hopefuls Sevilla are at home to promoted club Real Betis, while an improving Real Sociedad await the visit of mid-table Atletico Madrid.Finally, Espanyol are at home to promoted Granada, and the other new arrivals, Rayo Vallecano, play host to Mallorca.
Saturday's La Liga Fixtures
Espanyol vs Granada
Racing Santander vs Getafe
Real Sociedad vs Atletico Madrid
Real Betis vs Sevilla
Sunday's La Liga Fixtures
Osasuna vs Valencia
Rayo Vallecano vs Real Mallorca
Malaga vs Barcelona
Levante vs Real Zaragoza
Real Madrid vs Athletic Bilbao Monday's La Liga Fixtures
Jose Mourinho hasn't spoken to Kaka in four months, claims former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon
The Santiago Bernabeu side's former supremo has stated that the Brazil international has a troublesome relationship with his coach, and added that several players are unhappy
Zinedine Zidane: To attack Jose Mourinho & the players is the same as attacking Real Madrid
The Frenchman says that the former Chelsea boss is in the process of building something great at the club and that no other manager has a system to beat Barcelona
Santos' Neymar: I'm not interested in joining Barcelona or Real Madrid right now
The Brazil international has stressed that he is not thinking about a move to Europe just yet, as he feels he still has work to do at his current club in Brazil
Barcelona's Gerard Pique: Nobody can stop us if we play our own game
The towering defender has voiced his opinion that the Catalans are nearly unbeatable as long as they as they can maintain their focus and be themselves on the pitch
Valencia's Unai Emery: We will respect Levante in the second leg
The 40-year-old wants his side to treat their rivals seriously when they face them on January 26, after establishing a strong lead on Thursday night
Real Madrid's Pepe: I never intended to hurt Barcelona's Lionel Messi
The former Porto man has refuted suggestions that he tried to injure the Argentine attacker and claims he was only trying to do his best for his team on Wednesday evening
Real Madrid's Karim Benzema: Copa del Rey tie against Barcelona is not over yet
The French striker admitted that Barca have the upper hand after the first leg but has insisted his side will travel to Camp Nou to turn things around
Valencia coach Unai Emery: There is no reason why we can't get back to winning ways against Osasuna
The Mestalla outfit were beaten 1-0 at home by Real Sociedad in their last La Liga game, but despite a number of players being injured the trainer wants three points
Barcelona's David Villa back in the gym as he continues rapid recovery from broken leg
The Spain international fractured his tibia in Japan barely over a month ago but he posted a video on his Facebook page on Friday of him on an exercise bike
Former Barcelona playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme in awe of 'amazing' Andres Iniesta
The 33-year-old Boca Juniors ace believes the Catalans make for mandatory viewing and that Spain's World Cup final hero has redefined what constitutes good midfield play
Joan Gaspart: Real Madrid's Pepe should apologise properly for his stamp on Barcelona's Lionel Messi
The Catalans' former president has been left distinctly unimpressed with the Portuguese defender's statement on the incident, which has provoked outrage throughout the game
Barcelona's Pep Guardiola celebrates 41st birthday with technical staff
The Blaugrana boss gathered with his entire staff and told his co-workers that they play a leading role in the club's success
Brazil legend Pele: When Barcelona's Lionel Messi has scored 1,283 goals and won three World Cups, then we will talk
The 71-year-old is an admirer of the Argentine sensation but insisted that the Barca star is still far away from equalling his achievements on the pitch
Official: Salzburg sign Jonathan Soriano from Barcelona
The Spanish striker has completed a move to the Austrian side after several weeks of speculation about his future at Camp Nou
Former Real Madrid midfielder Michel: It is too late for Pepe to change
The ex-Getafe coach thinks that the defender will continue being a troublesome player and pointed out that his stamp on Lionel Messi was not an isolated incident
Real Madrid defender Pepe to miss two weeks of action - report
The Portuguese defender picked up a hamstring problem in the course of Wednesday's Copa del Rey quarter final against Barcelona, and will be absent for a fortnight
Brazil legend Pele: When Barcelona's Lionel Messi has scored 1,283 goals and won three World Cups, then we will talk The 71-year-old is an admirer of the Argentine sensation but insisted that the Barca star is still far away from equalling his achievements on the pitch
Jan 20, 2012 4:58:00 PM
By Luis Mira
Brazil legend Pele has praised Barcelona star Lionel Messi, but noted that the Argentine still has a long way to go to be as successful as he was.
The Argentina international became the second player in the history of the Ballon d'Or to win the prestigious award three times in a row when he lifted the title earlier this month in Zurich.
Pele acknowledged that he is a fan of Messi, but stressed that the diminutive Argentine faces a hard task to equal him.
"Technically speaking, we are practically at the same level," Pele told Le Monde. "We have both received a gift from God.
"Records are made to be broken, but it will be hard to break mine. When Messi has scored 1,283 goals and won three World Cups, then we will talk.
"People ask me all the time when there will be a new Pele. I tell them: 'Never'. My parents shut down the factory."
