Arsene Wenger in Optimistic Mood Ahead of New Season!!

After two successive wins against Paris St. Germain and Inter Milan last weekend Arsenal lifted The Emirates Cup, hardly the most prestigious piece of silverware but a triumph that boosted Arsene Wenger's confidence in his much criticised youth system. ESPNSoccernet caught up with the charismatic Frenchman as he reflected on victory in the pre-season tournament and revealed his thoughts and ambitions for the coming season.

ESPNSoccernet: Arsenal won the Emirates Cup. What does that mean for the club only two weeks before the Premiership restarts? Read More...

Ghana Defeated Ethiopia in Addis Ababa!

In Addis Ababa , Ghana's Black Queens needed two second half strikes to edge past their Ethiopian hosts 3-1 in a keenly contested game.Former African Football Queen, Adjoa Bayor broke the deadlock after ten minutes before the Female Antelopes drew equal before recess.
Substitutes Gloria Oforiwaa and Memuna Darko scored a goal each in the second half to put the Queens hopes of making their first appearance at the Olympic stage on a bright note.On the other match, Nigeria won South Africa 5-0 in Abuja The second day matches is scheduled for August 10-12

Kenenisa Bekele Produced the Highlight Performance of GPIAGA!

Ethiopia's reigning Olympic and World 10,000m champion Kenenisa Bekele produced the highlight performance of the ‘4th Gran Premio Internacional de Atletismo Gobierno de Aragón” held last night (July 28) on a hot and windy day. The 4th Gran Premio Internacional de Atletismo Gobierno de Aragón is one of a select group of Area meetings at which points can be acquired by athletes to qualify for the IAAF / VTB Bank World Athletics Final. The 25-year-old Bekele managed to dip under the 12:50 barrier in his first appearance over 5000m this summer campaign by clocking 12:49.53. In doing so Bekele raised himself to the top position on this year’s world list in a season which had not until last night seen a sub-13 minutes 5000m performance. Bekele also recorded a best Spain’s all-comers time in the process. Read More...

Iraq Win Asian Cup for the First Time!

Iraq completed one of sport's great fairytales by beating Saudi Arabia 1-0 in the Asian Cup final on Sunday to provide a rare moment for celebration in their war-torn homeland. The Saudis had been bidding to become the first four-times winners of the tournament but Iraq, riding a wave of global sentiment, upset the hot-favourites for a rare slice of sporting glory. Iraqi captain Younis Khalef scored the winner in the 71st minute when he climbed above the defence at the far post and headed a perfectly-weighted corner from Hawar Mulla Mohammed into the Saudi net. Read More...

Money talks as Premiership big guns prepare for battle!

When the whistle blows at the Stadium of Light to start the Premiership season on August 11, attention will finally turn to players rather than pound notes.Premiership clubs have been throwing money around during the close season thanks to the extra riches from the league's 2.2-billion-pound broadcasting contracts.The frenetic shopping spree started right at the top with champions Manchester United. Read More...

Ethiopian Women to Play Against Ghana in Addis Ababa!

African champions, Super Falcons of Nigeria and Ghana ’s Black Queens will be in engaged in tricky away duels as the group phase of the Beijing 2008 Olympics Games qualifiers begin this weekend. The continent’s foremost female teams have to slug it out with South Africa and Ethiopia for the automatic slot in a round-robin basis which spans July 2007 to March 2008.

On the first day, Nigeria the only African side to have participated at the quadrennial games treks down south to face South Africa ’s Banyana Banyana whilst Ghana’s strength will be tested by Ethiopia in Addis Ababa. For the Falcons, the clash is just a week after hammering their hosts 4-0 in the finals of the just ended 9th All Africa Games in Algeria to clinch gold, but Coach Lad Jossy’s side is confident of a convincing result.

In Addis Ababa , Ghana ’s Black Queens will be handed one of their toughest encounters in recent outings when the square off Ethiopia in the other match of the qualifiers. Assistant coach of the Ghanaian team, Dan Owusu has said that his outfit knows nothing about their hosts but expressed confidence they will begin their campaign on a bright note. “We know nothing about our opponents, but we will surely return at least with a point” assured Owusu, who was a three-time golden boot winner in the local league during his playing days.

The Queens are banging their hopes on three foreign based players in the team; Mavis Danso, Fati Mohammed (both of Robert Morris College, USA) and Patricia Ofori ( Alabama University , USA ) to bring their experience to bear in their quest to oust the Ethiopians at their own backyard.

The top placed team at the end of the qualifying rounds secures the automatic spot for next year’s Olympic Games with the second placed team engaging Brazil in the play-off. (Source: CAF)

Kenenisa Bekele produce solo magic!

On IAAF World Athletics Tour in Monanco, Kenenisa Bekele was supreme in men’s 3000m. His run was not quite as fast as his race in Sheffield on 15 July (7:26.69), and that it didn’t provide such a shock! Yet Bekele was just as assured tonight. After the last pacemaker dropped out with three laps to go, he began a solo parade of brilliance which ended in 7:29.32. No one came close to the World and Olympic 10,000m champion, though Kenyan Moses Kipsiro (7:32.03), Ireland’s Alistair Cragg (7:32.49), and Ahmed Baday of Morocco (7:34.94) in the next three places can be satisfied with personal bests.(Source:IAAF))

Iraq Defeated South Korea to Reach Asian Cup Final.

Iraq stunned South Korea 4-3 on penalties Wednesday and Saudi Arabia upset defending champions Japan 3-2 to set up an Asian Cup final few expected to see. It is Iraq's first-ever major final and sparked wild celebrations in Baghdad, while the Saudis atoned for the last tournament in China in 2004 when they failed to make the decider for the first time in 20 years.They meet in Jakarta on Sunday while Japan and South Korea face an unwanted trip to Pelambang in Indonesia on Saturday to play-off for third place. Read More...

Tufa and Burka win titles in Algiers

Ethiopian runners Mestawet Tufa and Gelete Burka romped to 10000m and 1500m titles in the final two days of action at the 9th All-African Games in Algiers, Algeria. Ethiopia’s other gold medal hopeful Tariku Bekele was defeat to Ugandan Moses Kipsiro in the men’s 5000m.

On Saturday, national 10000m champion Mestawet Tufa extended the country’s medal count to 11 with a run-away victory ahead of 40-year old Kenyan Edith in the women’s 10000m. Tufa, the fastest woman over the distance this year with 31:00.48 in the Netherlands, clocked 31:26.25, five seconds ahead of Masai with another Kenyan Irene Kwambai third. Ashu Kasim and Teyiba Erkesso, the other two Ethiopians in the race, finished fourth and fifth respectively.
On Sunday, Gelete Burka went largely unchallenged in the women’s 1500m, clocking 4:06.89 to take victory ahead of Kenyan Veronica Nyaruai and Namibian Agnes Samaria. Fellow Ethiopian Meskerem Assefa finished fourth. But world junior 5000m champion and pre-race favorite Tariku Bekele did not have it his way in the men’s 5000m final. The 20-year old looked comfortable going into the penultimate final lap of the race, but was outrun, first by Uganda’s African 10000m champion Moses Kipsiro and then by Kenyan Menjo Kiprono to settle for bronze. Fellow Ethiopians Abraham Cherkose and Ali Abdosh followed him across the line in fourth and fifth.

In the other races involving Ethiopians in the final two days, Derese Mekonnen was fourth in the men’s 1500m. Cherenet Makore finished fifth in the men’s 20km walk. Following five days of action-packed drama in the Algerian capital, Ethiopia finish fifth in the medals’ table for the athletics with a total of 13 medals, out of which four were gold. (Source: GER)

African Champions League Results!

Egyptian giants Al-Ahly were slammed by their own coach Manuel Jose Sunday despite a win that virtually sealed an African Champions League semi-finals place. Ahly outclassed struggling Esperance of Tunisia 3-0 in Cairo thanks to goals from midfielder Mohamed Aboutraika, Angola World Cup striker Flavio Amado and substitute Osama Hosny. The result left five-time African champions Ahly eight points ahead of other former title holders ASEC of Ivory Coast and Esperance halfway through the six-round mini-league phase. Another win over troubled Esperance in Tunis on August 4 and Ahly will be through to the last four as they chase a record third consecutive title in the premier African club football competition.

But Portuguese coach Jose, who has guided the Cairo 'Red Devils' to three of their five Champions League successes, hit out at his superstars. "We were not good and we did not take the game seriously enough despite the victory margin," said the coach. Esperance axed veteran captain Moyin Chaabani for undisclosed disciplinary reasons, lacked suspended defender Wissem Bekri, and Ali Ben Nadji was the third coach in as many Champions League outings. Frenchman Jacky Dugueperoux was fired after a goalless home draw with ASEC and local Faouzi Benzarti accepted an offer to coach Libya just one week after a 2-0 loss at Al-Hilal of Sudan.

Hilal could be the surprise second qualifiers from Group B after Nigerian Yusuf Mohamed scored the late winner in a 2-1 home triumph over ASEC. Another Nigerian, Ezeh Ndubuisi, put the Sudanese ahead and Nafiu Iddrisu levelled. Ahly have nine points from three matches, Hilal six and ASEC and Esperance just one each in a competition offering a one million dollar (723,000 euros) first prize and a place in the annual FIFA Club World Cup.

Etoile Sahel of Tunisia, Champions League runners-up twice in the past three years, took a firm grip on Group A thanks to a 3-0 win over Algerian visitors Jeunesse Sportive Kabylie in the Mediterranean resort of Sousse. Etoile were ahead within 55 seconds through young striker Amine Chermiti and early second half goals from midfielder Mejdi Ben Mohamed and Cape Verdian striker Gilson 'Ja' Silva sealed success. Victory lifted Etoile to seven points while surprise packets Al-Ittihad of Libya have collected four and more fancied Kabylie and FAR Rabat of Morocco three each. FAR pipped Ittihad 1-0 in a bad-tempered Rabat clash through a stoppage-time header from leading scorer Jaouad Ouaddouch, who deflected a shot past outstanding Libyan goalkeeper Samir Aboud. Ittihad players and Serb coach Branko Smiljamnic reacted by attacking Moroccan players and journalists and police had to protect the Nigerian match officials during a 10-minute delay. (Source: Soccerway)

Record Sixth Win for Argentina on FIFA U-20 World Cup!

Second-half goals from tournament top scorer and best player Sergio Aguero and deputised striker Mauro Zarate were enough to see off a courageous and impressive Czech fight in Canada 2007's grand Final on Sunday 22 July in Toronto.

Marvellous Martin Fenin struck first for the Czechs, but it wasn't enough against a new-look Argentina, who won out 2-1 and celebrate their sixth U-20 title and second on the trot.

The contest started ominously with Lukas Kuban picking up a yellow card for a full-blooded challenge on new Argentine man Leonardo Sigali - who was playing his first minutes of the finals as deputy for suspended captain Matias Cahais. The booking proved a hint of things to come. The referee handed out six cards (all yellow from 29 fouls) in the first 45 minutes as the underdog Czechs looked to show the five-time champions they were far from intimidated. The Europeans, who eliminated UEFA champions Spain and Austria en route to a surprise Final berth, weren't aimlessly throwing their ample weight around, either. For large chunks of the first period, they controlled possession and dictated the pattern of play with sharp, incisive counter attacks. They hit the post on nine minutes through Marek Suchy and looked in the mood throughout.

The Argentines looked dangerous in patches as the opening half wore on, with the outrageously gifted Maxi Moralez turning up virtually everywhere on the pitch in a roving, free role. On the other side of the break, Moralez again looked the danger man for Argentina, having a great chance from close range cleared off the line in minute 51. The Czechs, unbowed, marched right up the other end just seconds later and Lubos Kalouda forced Argentina keeper Sergio Romero into a wonder save.

As if the pair of chances was a warning, shortly after a wild two-minute patch saw a two-goal surge that turned the game on its ear and sent both sets of supporters into hysterics. First, Czech striker and talisman Martin Fenin collected a ball, swivelled brilliantly at the edge of the box and fired a stunning goal inside the far post past Sergio Romero in minute 60. Then Sergio 'Kun' Aguero showed why he was voted Canada 2007's runaway best player and top scorer, ducking into space between two Czech defenders and slotting simply into the near post in the 62nd minute from an Ever Banega through ball.

The diminutive Moralez, bandaged after being bloodied in a clash of heads with Czech defender nearly twice his size, continued to look hot for Argentina. And he played a role in the match-winning goal, helping to feed Mauro Zarate - on in place of the injured Angel Di Maria - who hammered inside Radek Petr's near post from 20 yards out. In the end the 2-1 result left the Czechs in tears and the Argentines - slightly better on the day - on cloud nine. Having gone farther than anyone expected at these finals, the Czechs go out with their heads held high and a silver medal in their pocket.

On the other hand, Chile grabbed bronze medal after winning Austria 1-0 in Toronto. On the stroke of halftime, Mathias Vidangossy volleyed home the only goal of the game at the near post. Austria went close to tie the game in the second half when they hit the crossbar and their subsequent effort cleared off the line. (Source FIFA)

Five Reasons for Argentine Hope!

Argentina are just 90 minutes away from claiming an incredible sixth world title in this category. Some 30 years on from the inaugural edition of the FIFA U-20 World Cup, the Albiceleste are hoping to draw inspiration from their proud record at the tournament as they head into Sunday's decider against first-time finalists Czech Republic. Read on as FIFA.com lists five reasons why the South Americans are considered favourites for victory here in Canada. However, don't write off the East Europeans, who are determined to relieve the holders of their title and strike a blow for Czech football. Read More...

'Al Ahli win steers them closer to semifinals'!

Holders Al Ahli maintained their 100 percent record in the group phase of the African Champions League when they beat Tunisia's Esperance 3-0 in Cairo on Friday. Goals from Mohamed Aboutrika, Flavio and Osama Hosni took the Egyptian side to nine points in Group B, six ahead of second-placed Al Hilal, who have a game in hand. Aboutrika's strike in the 14th minute set the Egyptians on their way to their third win of the campaign. The Egyptian international cleverly chipped the ball over Esperance goalkeeper Hamdi Kasraoui after a fortunate deflection off the legs of defender Zied Derbali. Angolan striker Flavio doubled the lead 12 minutes from time, rising first to head home an in-swinging free kick from his compatriot Gilberto, whose runs down the left flank tormented the Tunisian visitors. Substitute Hosni got the third in the 85th minute with a precision shot from outside the penalty area that crept in between the outstretched arm of Kasraoui and the post.

Al Ahli can make sure of their progress to the semi-finals when they meet Esperance again on Aug. 4. The Tunisian side, who have been in crisis with three coaching changes in the last five weeks, broke through Al Ahli's defence with the last effort of the match but Seifallah Mahjoubi managed to hit his shot against the upright. Esperance have yet to score a goal in their three group matches and are in serious danger of missing out on the other semi-final berth offered the top two finishers in the group. Al Hilal of Sudan host ASEC Abidjan from the Ivory Coast on Sunday.(Source:Reuters)

Argentina Reaches Final in FIFA U-20 World Cup!

Chile conceded their first goals of these finals on Thursday against familiar opposition, losing out 3-0 after Argentina hit home through Angel Di Maria, Claudio Yacob and Maximiliano Moralez.

The all-South American affair produced some occasionally dazzling football, but will be remembered primarily for its confrontational edge as the Chileans finished with only nine men.

After some nasty collisions and chest thumping in the middle of the park, the first chance of note fell to Argentina's Di Maria. An unfortunate slip at the six-minute mark by Gary Medel on the rain-soaked pitch allowed the Rosario Central striker in with a golden chance, but one that he could only push wide of the near post. Read More...

Czech Republic Advance to Final in FIFA U-20 World Cup!!

Czech Republic booked the first ticket to the FIFA U-20 World Cup Final after a 2-0 semi-final victory over Austria in Edmonton on 18 July, 2007. Early strikes by Tomas Micola and Martin Fenin knocked the stuffing out of Austria and put the Czechs in a commanding position that they never looked like surrendering. The Austrian coach Paul Gludovatz sprang a surprise by including star striker Erwin 'Jimmy' Hoffer from the start in place of Rubin Okotie, despite using the Rapid Vienna forward as a match-winning substitute in their previous two knockout round encounters, but this time he could not deliver. Defender Daniel Grammann came in for Thomas Panny, who broke his leg the day before the game, in a side featuring only five starters from their 2-1 extra-time defeat of USA in the quarter-finals. The Czechs, meanwhile, were unchanged from the team that kicked-off in their penalty shootout win over Spain in the last eight. Read more...

"Gebrselassie lights up the day for Ethiopian orphans"!

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (Tuesday 17 July 2007): Ethiopian distance running legend Haile Gebrselassie joined more than 1000 kids on a fun run on Saturday as he took a break from his racing commitments.

In an event organized by Right to Play (RTP) in collaboration with Worldwide Orphans (WWO) and UNICEF-Ethiopia, Gebrselassie, who is one of RTP’s national athlete ambassadors, led children from six different orphanages in a one-lap fun run at the Addis Ababa stadium and shared his lifetime achievements with the gathering. “If you are strong and have self confidence, you can reach anywhere,” Gebrselassie said to the children. “You can reach anywhere you want. Everything is possible. The source for the problem of orphaned children starts from their own family. But we are all responsible for the life of these children.” Read More...

"Bekele Dominant as Ever"!

The day-long rain that pelted the Don Valley stadium in Sheffield made conditions miserable for athletes and spectators alike. Indeed, it was more like cross country weather than a summer track meeting, which probably explains why the performance of the night belonged to Ethiopia’s king of the country, Kenenisa Bekele.

The five-times double world cross country champion was back to his peerless best in the men’s 3000m, a race billed as a re-match with Australia’s Craig Mottram, the man who beat him in a sprint finish at last year’s IAAF World Cup. Bekele gave Mottram little chance to repeat that triumph here as he simply destroyed the Australian over the last kilometre to win by a huge margin.

After a quick first kilomere, paced by Kenya’s Charles Bett in 2:29.57, and second 1000m of 2:33.15, Bekele moved to the front and kicked away from his Australian shadow, speeding through a 58-second lap that turned a three-metre advantage into an unassailable 30m lead. He stopped the clock at 7:26.69, a stadium record by almost 13 seconds. More significantly it erased yet another of Haile Gebrselassie’s marks from the record books, the UK all-comers’ record of 7:29.69, it is the fastest time in the world this year by nearly six and a half seconds, and it makes Bekele the seventh quickest 3000m runner of all-time. Not bad considering the curtain of chilling water he had to plough through.

Not surprisingly, Bekele was the happiest man in the stadium. “That was a fantastic race,” he said. “The weather makes it very difficult to run well, but today is very special. I have been training very hard and it now shows that I am at my best.”

A bedraggled Mottram held on to finish second in 7:35.00, but afterwards the Australian’s mood was as grey as the heavy South Yorkshire skies. “That was not the Craig Mottram you usually see,” he said. “I am clearly better than that.” No doubt he is, although his time was still the fifth best in the world this year, while Americans Chris Solinsky and Dathan Ritzenhein, in third and fourth, both set PBs – 7:36.90 and 7:39.03 respectively. Not that either were within spitting distance of Bekele. Indeed, the Ethiopian was one of the few athletes with reason to feel genuinely pleased with his performance on a night when many of the most-publicised clashes turned into damp squibs.

Arsenal Poised to sign Argentine Striker?!!??

Arsenal are poised to smash their transfer record with a £15million swoop for Argentinian striker Rodrigo Palacio. Reports in Argentina claim Palacio, 25, will fly to London tomorrow for a medical after Boca Juniors accepted the Gunners offer. He is destined to wear the No 14 shirt vacated by Thierry Henry’s recent £16m move to Barcelona. Palacio wears No 14 for Boca and Argentina and is seen as a direct replacement for Henry. Ironically, Barcelona had agreed a £14.9m deal for Palacio just days before learning long-term target Henry was available.

An earlier bid of £12.7m had been knocked back by Boca president Mauricio Macri, who said: “It would have to be a much bigger offer because, for me, he is the best striker in Argentina.” The deal was further complicated by the fact former clubs Huracan and Banfield are both due a cut of the transfer fee. But now it appears all obstacles have been removed after Arsenal came in with a record-breaking offer.
Palacio is currently in Venezuela as part of the Argentina squad which played Brazil in last night’s final of the Copa America.

He is eager to prove himself in Europe after going to the World Cup in Germany last year as back-up to Hernan Crespo and Carlos Tevez. Palacio has scored 39 goals in 79 appearances for Boca and has won five Argentine caps. He partnered Tevez in Argentina’s 1-0 win over Paraguay on July 5. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has already spent £16.5m this summer on striker Eduardo Da Silva and full-back Bacary Sagna. Palacio’s arrival would smash the club-record £12.5m paid for Sylvain Wiltord in 2000.

Much Fancied Mexico U-20 Team Heading Home!!!

Holders Argentina set up an all-South American semi-final against Chile after beating Mexico by a single goal at the Frank Clair Stadium in Ottawa on 15 July, 2007. Argentina made an explosive start, with Angel Di Maria producing a great save from Mexico goalkeeper Alfonso Blanco early on as his powerful volley was tipped over the top. However, Carlos Vela also came desperately close to opening the scoring at the other end when he had a great opening but Argentina's Sergio Romero got enough of a block on it to turn the ball away for a corner when the shot passed between the keeper's legs.Vela then hit the post after half an hour with a shot on the turn but Maximiliano Moralez got Argentina's winner just before the break with a drive which deflected in off Julio Cesar Dominguez.

The Mexicans tried to get back into it but Argentina rarely looked troubled after the break and their lead stayed intact. Many people fancied Mexico for the title following their victory at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Peru two years ago, but they are now heading for home, while Argentina remain on course for a sixth U-20 title and they meet Chile in Toronto on 19 July for a place in the final

Brazil Demolish Argentina to win eighth Copa America!!

Brazil stunned bitter rivals and overwhelming favourites Argentina 3-0 to win their eighth Copa America title on Sunday (see goals on the left side). It was the second successive title for the Brazilians and was sweet justification for coach Dunga, who was without superstars Ronaldinho and Kaka, and who had been the target of vitriolic criticism for overseeing a workmanlike rather than traditionally wondrous side.

Argentina, chasing a record 15th title, were outplayed in every department as the sparkling form they showed in the run-up to the final deserted them and deprived coach Alfio Basile of a second Copa having overseen the team's last win in 1993.

Julio Baptista scored his third goal in three games at the tournament when he gave Brazil the lead after just four minutes.The striker, unwanted by Arsenal, picked up a long ball from Elano, who had replaced suspended skipper Gilberto Silva, and controlled it neatly. He turned to the right of Argentina skipper Roberto Ayala and fired a fierce right-foot drive into the top corner of Roberto Abbondanzieri's goal.Five minutes later, Argentina were unfortunate not to be back on level terms. A cushioned header from Juan Sebastian Veron found Juan Roman Riquelme in space but the playmaker's left-foot shot came off the post with goalkeeper Doni well beaten. At the other end, Abbondanzieri saved from Maicon to keep the deficit down while opposite number Doni was also alert to danger when he thwarted another Riquelme effort 10 minutes from half-time.

Luck was certainly on Brazil's side and they went 2-0 ahead in the 40th minute when a right-wing cross from substitute Daniel Alves was turned into his own goal by Ayala whose 115th international appearance was slowly turning into a nightmare.Argentina continued to struggle to make any impact at the start of the second half as the likes of Carlos Tevez and Lionel Messi were marked out of the game by well-organised opponents with central defenders Juan and Alex particularly solid.

Brazil earned the reward for their superiority with a memorable third goal after 69 minutes.Vagner Love broke free down the left and slotted an inch-perfect pass between two defenders where Alves, who plays his club football in Spain with Sevilla, was waiting.The substitite made no mistake with a low drive into the corner past Abbondanzieri to score his first international goal. Argentina's miserable night was summed up when Tevez had an 80th-minute effort ruled out for offside.(Source: Soccerway)

African Hope is out of FIFA U-20 World CUP!

The two meanest defences in Canada came face-to-face in Montreal on Sunday, with Chile ultimately depriving Nigeria of a semi-final berth thanks to four unanswered strikes in extra-time. Chile began the strongest and it took a fine save onto the crossbar from Ikechukwu Ezenwa to prevent Dagoberto Currimilla from scoring in the 19th minute. Alexis Sanchez then brought the South Americans close from a free-kick with half an hour gone, a minute before Gary Medel spread panic with a solo run forward.

The Flying Eagles improved towards the end of the half and Chile goalkeeper Cristopher Toselli did well to intercept a dangerous cross from Chukwuma Akabueze on 40 minutes. He could do nothing to stop an Ezekiel Bala header four minutes later, though, and was relieved to see the ball come back off the bar. La Rojita coach Jose Sulantay's response was to take off Alexis Sanchez and Nicolas Medina at the break, replacing them with Jaime Grondona and Carlos Carmona, and his side twice threatened to go ahead from expertly-played through balls after the restart; Mauricio Isla (54') then Grondona (73') both spurning good opportunities.

Nigeria's physical strength began to pay as time ticked down, but they remained too wasteful in the last third to carve out any serious chances. Indeed, six minutes into extra-time it was Chile who broke the deadlock, Hans Martinez taking advantage of confusion in the box to supply Grondona, who had the easy job of nodding the ball into an open goal. The Chileans had looked exhausted, but now they had enough left in the tank to put the game out of reach with two goals from Isla after 114 and 118 minutes, and their triumph was complete when Vidangossy fired in a fourth. They will now face either Mexico or Argentina in the semi-finals on 19 July in Toronto.(Source: FIFA)

Underdogs Prevailed in U-20 World Cup!!

The first two quarter-finals at Canada 2007 resulted in victories for the underdogs, with Austria overcoming the United States in rainy Toronto while the Czech Republic got the better of Spain beneath a beating sun in Edmonton. Austria found their way past the much-fancied Americans in their last-eight showdown. With many surprised that they even made it this far, Paul Gludovatz's side pulled off a notable upset by once again employing the tactic that served them so well in the previous round: namely, bringing hungry forward Erwin 'Jimmy' Hoffer off the bench to fire in the winner late on. The Rapid Vienna supersub clearly knows where the goal is, and he made sure no one will forget his contribution by shaving his nickname into his hair before applying the winning touch. Read More...

Ethiopia Takes Historical Steeplechase Title in Ostrava!

Ostrava, Czech Republic: 17-year-old Legese Lamiso became the first ever Ethiopian runner to win a global Steeplechase title when he clocked a new World Youth leading time of 5:30.81 to win a superb gold medal at the IAAF World Youth Championships in Ostrava. Lamiso finishing speed was no match for Silas Kosgei Kitum of Kenya who had to settle for silver in personal best 5:32.88.

From the gun, one could tell the race would be an African affair but it was expected that Kenya’s superiority at the event would remain unchallenged until a very determined Lamiso made his move to the front.

Morocco’s Abdellah Dacha out sprinted Jonathan Muia Ndiku, the second Kenyan in the race to claim bronze in yet another personal best 5:34.49. In total 8 out of 12 finalists improved on their personal records.Read More...

FIFA U-20 World Cup!

Players and coaches alike will never cease insisting that "we win as a team and we lose as a team". However, from time to time it really is the individual stars who settle the outcome of a match. It used to be Diego Maradona, now it is the likes of Ronaldinho or Lionel Messi. On the second matchday in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Canada 2007, the honours went to Sergio Aguero. The diminutive Argentine striker turned in a dazzling display to wow the 20,000 sell-out crowd at the National Soccer Stadium in Toronto, and thrill the countless hordes watching on TV. His mazy dribbling and adroit touch on the ball provided the decisive moments in his side's triumph against Poland. Read More...

Ethiopian Women Soccer Team Lost the First Match!

Nigerian women soccer team beat Ethiopian counterpart today in Algers Bologhine Stadium. Nigeria, who drew the first match with South Africa, scored three second half goals to beat Ethiopian ladies 3-0 and kept their hope to win the title again alive. After a scoreless first half, Rita Chikwelu broke the deadlock on 57th minute with long range effort. On the 72nd minute, Nigeria got the second goal through Chejine Ifeanyi who outpaced the ethiopian defence to make it 2-0. Then in dying seconds, Ekpo Effioanwan scored the third confirming Nigerian dominance in the game. Nigeria with four point out of two games made it to the second round. Next match of our ladies will be against South Africa and need a win to go through to knock out stage.

Big Buck Buys!

Premier league clubs are now busy signing players and strengthening their squad. Some of them broke their own spending record to bring their target player. Manchester United spent around 30 million pound on two players, spurs spending is now around 30 million pound and Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal, Westham, Newcastle etc are now spending lot of money. Of the three new strikers in Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham, who do you think will be a success? i.e who do you think will score more goals?

Austria & USA U-20 Teams Through to Quarter Final!

Austria striker Erwin 'Jimmy' Hoffer came off the bench to fire his side into the quarter-finals with a 2-1 win over ten-man Gambia at Edmonton's Commonwealth Stadium whereas the high-flying USA, who ran riot through the group stages with a tournament-best nine goals, were forced to grit their teeth and come from behind in their 2-1 extra-time Round of Sixteen victory over Uruguay. Read More...

Argentina will Play Brazil on Copa America Final!

Argentina booked a place on the final after a very impressive win over Mexico tonight in Puerto Ordaz. Manchester united defender Gabriel Heinze opened the scoring on 45th minute when he connected to Reqelme's free kick just to score his second international goal in 39 appearance. Lionel messi, collecting a pass from outstanding Reqelme, put the game further away from Mexicans beautifully lobbing the ball over the outstretched hands of the goalkeeper on 61st minute (see the goals on the leftside). Four minute later, Juan Riquelme sent the goal keeper wrong way to make it 3-0 after Carlos Tevez was fouled in penality box and killing any fighting spirit left in Mexicans.

Argentina's win sets up a dream final match with arch rival Brazil on Sunday. Brazil was victorious in penalty shootout when these two South American giants met in 2004 final. Dejected Mexicans will play against Uruguay on Saturday for third place.

Bazil on the Final of Copa America!

Defending champions Brazil came out on top on the first match of the semi final of the copa America 2007 against historic rival Uruguay. Brazil twice took the lead and twice caught sleeping before winning the game on penalty shootout. Maicon opened the scoring for Brazil on the 14th minute before the game interrupted for floodlight failur. But Uruguay dominated the midfield producing successive corners and the former Manchester united player Deigo Forlan level the game on the 36th minute following a poor clearance from the goalkeeper. Uruguay's joy didn't last long as Brazil hit back after 5 minutes and retook the lead once again by Julio Babtista goal on the 40th minute.

In the second half Uruguay dominance in the midfield again got them back to the game when substitute Sebastián Abreu scored on the 70th minute. With the game tied 2-2, the teams went straight to penalty shootouts. Daigo Forlan took the first shot, rather weak, straight at the goalkeeper which put Uruguay in an early hole. Then a miss by Alfonso on the fourth shot of the team gave a lifeline for Uruguay and they were even close to snatching a win before Garcia's shot hit the post. Two save by goalkeeper Doni put lucky Brazilians through to the final with 5-4 shootout win.

Brazil Awaits the winner of tomorrow's highly anticipated match between Mexico and Argentina.

"The Oldest Rivalry in the Game!"

July 16th, 1950: The Estadio do Maracana, Rio de Janeiro. 200,000 fans. Two South American footballing neighbours. This was the platform for Uruguay's greatest ever triumph, a 2-1 victory over hosts Brazil which won them their 2nd FIFA World Cup trophy. Since then the rivalry has been heated. Nearly 60 years on and possibly the oldest international football rivalry continues. The venue this time: the lesser imposing figure of the 42,000 capacity Jose Pachencho Romero Stadium, Maracaibo, Venezuela. The stage; the CONMEBOL Copa America semi-final. Read More...

Ethiopian Women Soccer National Team Plays Nigeria on Thursday!

Ghana’s Black Princesses beat hosts Algeria 2-1 at the Zerealda Stadium in the opening Group B match of the 9th All Africa Games on Monday evening. The West Africans, who are making their debut at the competition have three points and in pole position to advance to the next stage as they handed out the defending Arabian champion the slim margin defeat in front of their fans.
Represented by their U-19 squad, the Ghanaian side showed much promise throughout the full duration with their attackers occasionally drawing rings around the Algerian rear.

In Group A, African Champions Nigeria came from two goals down to settle for a 2-2 draw with rivals South Africa at the Bologhine stadium. The Super Falcons were down 0-2 in the first half after defender Onome Ebi had headed the ball into her own net to put the Banyana Banyana’s in front. Led by coach Jossy Lad, the Falcons came from the break a determined side and succeeded in canceling the lead through Ifeanyi Chiejine moments into the half before midfielder Tawa Ishola drew level later in the game.

The next round matches are scheduled for Thursday, July 12. Nigeria will play Ethiopia in Group A, while hosts Algeria seek to restore their pride against debutants, Senegal in Group B in Zerealda.(Source: CAF Online)

FIFA U-20 World Cup is to Resume on Saturday July 11 2007!

Under 20 FIFA World Cup, now on round of 16, is to resume on Saturday July 11 2007. Formerly known as the FIFA World Youth Championship, has been the launching pad for many international soccer stars. Diego Maradona, Ashley Cole, Javier Saviola, Luis Figo, Enzo Francescoli, ... the list goes on.

Lionel Messi was just a 17-year-old kid playing for Argentina at the 2005 U-20 showdown hosted by the Netherlands. It was the time of his life. "I hold dearly a lot of memories from Netherlands 2005," Messi told FIFA.com. "I will never forget it. Nobody knew me before this tournament and after it was over people were recognizing me in the streets. "I think it is one of the most important things that has ever happened to me, and it's essential in the formation of any top player."

Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas helped to lead Spain to the 1999 crown in Nigeria. The event was perfect proving ground for the young Spanish player, who is now considered one of the best 'keepers in the world. "It was a very special tournament for me," Casillas told the website. "Almost all of the players who won the title in Nigeria are now playing the top flight in Spain. "That competition was a springboard that opened the door for a great generation of Spanish players. It was one of the best moments in my career, winning the World Cup in a full stadium ... it was madness.

Former Brazilian star Bebeto cherishes the title he won at the 1983 U-20 World Cup which was held in Mexico. He added a FIFAWorld Cup crown in 1994. "When Brazil won the World Cup for the fourth time in 1994, Dunga, Jorginho and I had been playing together since that world championship in Mexico. "After such a long time together, we were like brothers, and today these guys are part of my family."

On Saturday, four matches will be played and none is bigger than the match up of former champions Brazil and Spain. USA one of many surprise teams in the tournament will play against Uruguay. Gambia, one of four African teams to make to this round will play against Austria who made to this round for the first time ever. Japan and Czech will battle out on the last match of the day.

The Best Team of all Time!!

Daily Star reported today that a global poll conducted by World Soccer Magazine voted best teams ever, the greatest goals of all time and the greatest matches of all time. Read More...

Great Day for African U-20 Teams in Canada!

Gambia and Congo dramatically beat Portugal and hosts Canada, respectively to book their places in the second round and boost Africa to a perfect four out of four sides to escape the group stage. Also perfect, Mexico became the only side to win all of their group contests while already qualified Chile and Austria settled for a draw in the day's other match. The Round of 16 schedule is now set, with anxiously waiting Costa Rica missing out on a spot at the death thanks to the two African victories. On "Soccer Day" in the Great White North, Canada, the only nation not to score in these finals, also became the first hosts to be eliminated at the U-20 group stage since Malaysia in 1997. Read More...

Debutant Al Hilal of Sudan Making Waves in Champions League!

Al Hilal of Sudan and Libyan outfit Al Ittihad have shown little respect for the established order in African football with impressive starts to their debut group campaigns in the CAF Champions League. The unfancied duo again emerged with enhanced reputations after the second round of league matches in Africa's top club competition at the weekend. Al Hilal picked up their first points with a home triumph over Esperance in Group B, while Al Ittihad drew away at another powerful Tunisia side, Etoile Sahel, in the other section. The Libyans won their first game at the end of last month and now have four points, enough to see them share Group A leadership with Etoile Sahel. Read More...

Argentina & Mexico Completed Semi-final Line-up for the 2007 Copa America!

Argentina and Mexico completed the semi-final line-up for the 2007 Copa America by picking up where fellow qualifiers Uruguay and Brazil left off, dishing out comprehensive defeats to leave the fans hoarse and opposing goalkeepers complaining of backache. The Mexicans continued the weekend theme when they steamrollered Paraguay 6-0, and the Albiceleste rounded things off when they outmuscled Peru 4-0. In a repeat of their enthralling Round of 16 duel at Germany 2006, the victorious duo will now square off on Wednesday with a place in the final up for grabs. The winners will meet the victors of Tuesday's clash between Uruguay and Brazil, who were equally impressive in sweeping aside Venezuela and Chile respectively on Saturday. Read More...

Zambia Upset Urugay in FIFA U-20 World Cup!

Spain fired their way into the Round of 16 thanks to a hat-trick by Adrian Lopez but not without a scare against Jordan as Zambia and Uruguay joined the Group B winners in the knockout stages. Group F also reached a climax, with Japan finishing top ahead of Nigeria as Costa Rica came from behind to stun Scotland and North Korea learned they will be heading home, despite not being in action. Not insignificantly, the day's results will have Brazil smiling as their three points earned is now enough to put them in the next round. Read More...

Brazil and Uruguay Advance to Semi Final in Compa America!

The quarter-finals of the 2007 Copa America kicked off in spectacular fashion when Brazil produced a six-goal masterclass against Chile and Uruguay put paid to the hosts' hopes with a comprehensive 4-1 win. The victorious duo will now battle it out on Tuesday for a place in the final, with Brazil hoping for a similar outcome to the Peru 2004 semi-final when they squeezed past the Charrúas on penalties. Read More...

USA made history on FIFA U-20 World Cup!

Argentina slipped past North Korea by a slim margin on Friday while the USA made history by earning only their second-ever FIFA world finals' win over perennial favourites Brazil on a night that saw Poland, the Czech Republic and even Austria (on their rest day) qualify for the knockout stages. Read More...

How to play Fantasy football of English Premeir League!

If somebody gives you 100 million pounds and tell you to buy players and set up a new "premier league caliber" team, who would you buy? what system would you use? which players would you choose on 'starting 11'? Have you ever wondered how some managers fail to read the football match and make stupid mistake? If you were that manager, what better change you would make? who would you substitute ? In general, do you have a little bit of a manager in you? Then you must join the fantasy football league and be a manager and make your own decision on you own team and compete agianst Alex furguson and Arsene Wenger!!! Read More...

Mexico's Golden Generation's Impressive Victory!!

Mexico's Golden Generation, champions of the last U-17 World Cup, announced their serious U-20 intentions with an exciting win over fancied Portugal to surge to the top of Group C and into the second round. The Portuguese remain on three points, now even with debutantes Gambia, who made history with their first goal and points in the tournament after victory over fellow first-timers New Zealand. Meanwhile, in Group A, the hosts fell to their second defeat on the trot, losing to Austria, while Chile beat 10-man Congo and reach the knockout rounds.Read More...

The Dallas Morning News Reports on Ethiopian Tournament!

Festival to celebrate Ethiopians' contributions!!
(Wednesday, July 4, 2007)

Ethiopian-Americans in Dallas quietly have helped keep the local economy advancing and are getting to proclaim their merits as Ethiopian immigrants gather here from around the country this week. The long-anticipated 24th annual Sports and Cultural Festival began Sunday and continues through Saturday at Homer Johnson Stadium, 1029 E. Centerville Road in Garland. The national festival attracts Ethiopian descendants from across the nation and will offer cultural, economic and social events, plus a soccer tournament featuring 27 teams, including two from Dallas, from 4 to 9 p.m. daily at the stadium.
Read More...

Nigeria U-20 through to Knockout Round!!

Japan and Nigeria confirmed their places in the knockout rounds of Canada 2007, Uruguay squeezed past Jordan and Spain beat Zambia on a day when attendances smashed through the 400,000 barrier to make the FIFA U-20 World Championship the largest single-sport event in Canadian history after only 16 matches.

Read More...

Arsenal's Eduardo da Silva's First Interview !!!

Arsenal's Eduardo da Silva's first interview since joining the club as a replacemnt for Henry appeared on the clubs website. Arsenal paraded new signing Eduardo da Silva on Tuesday afternoon. Afterwards Arsenal TV Online got the first interview with the 24-year-old Croatia international.

Read More....

The Third day results from Dallas, Texas

The annual Ethiopian soccer tournament in Dallas is underway and here are the third day result.

Toronto tied Las Vegas: 1-1
San Diego beat Houston: 4-0
Minnesota beat New York: 3-0
Ethio-Dallas beat Denver: 5-3
Ohio beat St. Michael: 3-0
D.C. Stars beat Virginia: 4-3
L.A. Stars beat Boston: 4-0
San Jose beat Addis Dallas: 2-1

New Chelsea player's goals send Peru through!

Claudio Pizarro, new Chelsea signing, scored twice to lift Peru into the knockout rounds of Copa America by drawing Bolivia 2-2 Tuesday while Venezuela and Uruguay both advanced after playing to a goal-less draw.Pizzaro scored in the 34th and 85th minutes, each time pulling the Peruvians level for a deadlock that ensured their place among the final eight. Jaime Moreno of DC United scored for Bolivia in the 24th minute and after Pizzaro's equalizer, Joselito Campos found the net in the 45th minute to put Bolivia ahead until Pizarro struck again five minutes from full time.

With the other draw, unbeaten host Venezuela won the Group A title with a triumph and two draws. Peru and Uruguay each finished with four points but Peru took second on superior goal difference. Uruguay will advance as one of the two top third-place nations as winless Colombia, Ecuador and United States cannot reach four points in the other groups.Venezuela will play a Saturday quarter-final against the worst third-place qualifier, meaning a possible rematch with Uruguay at San Cristobal. Peru will face the Group C champion, Argentina or Paraguay, in a Sunday quarter-final.

Wednesday's final Group B matches find unbeaten Mexico, already through to the quarter-finals, facing Chile while the Brazilians meet Ecuador.Thursday's final Group C matches send Argentina against Paraguay while winless US and Colombia squads meet.

FIFA U-20 World Cup Canada 2007! Goal Feast!

Tuesday's four games from Groups D and E at the FIFA U-20 World Cup saw no less than 22 goals fly in - the most prolific day so far at these finals. In the previous matchday in Group E, exactly zero goals were scored and only three ruffled the net in Group D. But today, five players scored two goals apiece.USA came from behind to hammer Poland 6-1 and Brazil woke from their slumber with a 3-2 win despite a brave fightback from Korea Republic. In Ottawa, North Korea scored a late penalty to draw level with the Czechs 2-2 before holders Argentina grabbed their first goals of Canada 2007 in a 6-0 thrashing of poor Panama.

USA 6 Poland 1
The U.S., who were lucky to sneak a draw in their first match with Korea Republic, looked to be on the way to more woe when they conceded a goal to the Poles inside five minutes in Montreal. Danny Szetela, who could have played for Poland with two native-born parents, got the U.S. back in it with a peerless header. Then Adu showed the kind of style that has made him one of the hottest properties in world football since he signed his first pro contract at age 13. He scored three on the day to become the only player ever to score a hat trick at both U-17 and U-20 world finals. Szetela added another one and Josmer Altidore got on the board too as the Poles looked a pale shadow of the side that beat fancied Brazil with 10 men in their opener. Szetela and Adu now both have three goals each - tied for tournament top scorer with two games gone.

North Korea 2 czech 2

In Ottawa a thrilling match between Asian Champions North Korea and the Czechs ended in 2-2 draw. In the 12th minute, the group finally got its first goal (the first matchday ended in two goalless draws) as Kum Il Kim put the Asians in front. Three more followed including a Kwang Ik Jon penalty in the dying moments that the Czech keeper saved but was followed up on keenly by the taker. Despite the increased goal output, the end result was the same - one point apiece in a tricky looking group.

Brazil 3 South Korea 2

Brazil's highly rated Alexandre Pato, whose name translates as 'the duck', broke his with a brace over in the late game in Montreal. But the last ten minutes was anything but simple for the South Americans as Shim Young Sum and substitue Shin Young Rok both scored to set up a tense finally. Despite some ominous and nervy moments in stoppage time, the Brazilians - still not firing on all cylinders - snuck out with the three points.

Argentina 6 Panama 1

Argentina took Ottawa by storm in the last game of the night as their stars shone brightly. Atletico starlet Sergio Aguero grabbed two, Mauro Zarate and Angel Di Maria one each and the diminutive Maximiliano Moralez two more in a 6-0 performance that had both the fans in the stands and the competition gasping. With three goals in seven first-half minutes, the five-time champions Argentina set themselves another U-20 record on a night of shocking attack. They will meet North Korea in their final group match, while Brazil and the USA will square off in a hotly anticipated final contest over in Group D. (Source: FIFA)

Second Day of ESFNA Tournament!

These are the results from the second day competition of ESFNA in Dallas,TX.

New York over Portland: 1-0
L.A. Dallol tied Houston: 0-0
Denver over Philadelphia: 1-0
San Francisco tied Virginia: 1-1
Maryland over Ohio: 4-2
Atlanta over Abebe Bikila: 5-1 Seattle versus Unity: 2-2
(source:ESFNA)

FIFA U-20 Canada 2007

The first round of group games at the FIFA U-20 World Championship Canada 2007 came to a close on Monday with three matches in all. After Portugal and Mexico had starred in a double bill in Toronto with comfortable wins over New Zealand and Gambia, Austria and Congo played out a 1-1 draw as Edmonton opened for business, with every side having now enjoyed a piece of the action.

Portugal vs New Zealand

On the day that the tournament organisers sold their one millionth ticket, a little piece of goal scoring history was also made. Portugal's Bruno Gama was the first player to make his mark on Monday when he scored the two goals that ensured first-time finalists New Zealand got off to a losing start. Toronto's sizeable Portuguese community was out in force at the National Soccer Stadium and the young Portuguese repaid their compatriots' faith in full, strolling to a routine victory over the Kiwis despite missing several chances.The Braga striker opened the scoring with a majestic free-kick on the stroke of half-time before making the points safe with a second-half penalty. This was no ordinary spot-kick, however, as Gama side-footed his way into the competition record books by scoring the 1,600th goal in the tournament's history. He joins two other Portuguese names on the list of goalscoring landmarks, Rui Ferreira having scored the 100th goal at Japan 1979 and Paulo Torres the 600th at Portugal 1991.

Mexico vs Gambia

Act two in Toronto saw Mexico and Gambia take to the stage. And both sides showed plenty of first-night nerves in a frenetic opening 45 minutes that saw both midfields reduced to supporting roles. Much to the delight of a noisy crowd, though, the chances came thick and fast with Tricolor keeper Alfonso Blanco pulling off a string of spectacular saves to keep the Africans at bay. The Baby Scorpions lost their sting after the restart, however, as goals from Giovanni dos Santos, Hector Moreno and Javier Hernandez ensured a happy ending for the boys in green.

Austria vs Congo

Austria and Congo rounded off the day's events with a 1-1 draw in Edmonton. Edwin Hoffer got the Austrians off to the best of starts after seven minutes, firing home a loose ball after Congo keeper Destin Onka had failed to hold onto Peter Hackmair's header. Franchel Ibara pulled the Africans level from the spot on the hour mark and the Congolese went mightily close to recording a famous win, Michael Zaglmair's goal-line heroics denying them five minutes from time.
All eyes will be on Edmonton in the next few days as it prepares to host Canada's final two group games

Paraguay & Argentina through to Quarterfina of Copa Americal!!

Paraguay jumped to the top of Group C with a clinical 3 - 1 dispatching of a wasteful and inexperienced United States while Argentina maintained their 'favourites' tag with a virtuoso 4 - 2 dismissal of a rather rugged Colombia in last night's Copa America action. Paraguay and Argentina have now each scored 8 goals in 2 games with Paraguay displaying their brand of ruthless efficiency around goal coupled with astute defending, and Argentina rather opting for the more enjoyable free flowing football fiesta that typifies their preference to entertain.Both teams have now produced the tournament's current top-scorers in Hernan Crespo and Salvador Cabanas with 3 goals apiece, along with Brazil's Robinho.

Argentina look well on course to add to their 14 Copa America titles, but they could well be without their goal scoring supreme Crespo for the rest of the tournament, after the player injured himself while pile-driving his team back in to the game with a spot kick against Colombia. Rather admittedly, the player himself has revealed his chances of playing again in the tournament remain slim. "I know the technical staff will do everything in their power but I think we will need a miracle,"On the other hand, Paraguay will still have the lesser known substitute Cabanas available. The player has racked up his goals in rather impressive style, scoring freely at a rate of a goal every 13 minutes. Indeed the player has yet to even play 45 minutes in total in the tournament so far with the coach Gerardo Martino commenting, "He's a tremendous scorer."

Group A to be decided tonight when Peru plays against Bolivia and Uruguay plays Venezuela,who have already qualified for the next round.(source: soccerway)

Annual Ethiopian Soccer Competition in North America!

The annual Ethiopian soccer competition is underway in Dallas Texas. A week long event organized by the Ethiopian Sports Federation in North America (ESFNA) is a major event in the calender of Ethiopians in the region. ESFNA is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization founded in 1984 to promote "amateur soccer and cultural events within the Ethiopian community in the North America" Its goals include "providing positive role models for the youth, promoting goodwill between the Ethiopian communities in North America and creating a bridge where people from Ethiopia and North America can interact in a mutually beneficial manner"

Currently there are 27 teams competing and this is the result on the first day.

Toronto 2 Las Vegas 1
L.A.Dallol 4 San Diego 1
Minnesota 2 Portland 1
Ethio-Dallas 2 Philadelphia 0
Chicago 2 St. Michael 1
D.C. Stars 1 Baro 0
L.A. Stars 3 San Jose 1
Addis Dallas 3 Boston 2

The FIFA U-20 World Cup!!!

The FIFA U-20 World Cup hosts might have been celebrating Canada Day but Chile paid no heed to the spirit of celebration on the national holiday as they opened up their Group A campaign with handsome victory. Elsewhere, Japan outclassed Scotland, Jordan held Zambia, Panama and N. Korea share points, stalemate for Argentina and Czechs, US ride luck to Korea draw, Uruguay were pegged back by a resurgent Spain and Nigeria squeezed past Costa Rica amid a hectic schedule across the country.

Canada 0 Vs Chile 3 (Chile day on Canada day)

In Toronto, Chile opened the scoring against Canada on 25 minutes after a harmless-looking ball by Dagoberto Currimilla confused Marcus Haber and Nicolas Medina accepted the gift and hammered past Asmir Begovic from close range. The Canadians, looking swamped and out of their depth for large parts of the match, were again undone in the 54th minute when Carlos Carmona nodded home from inches out after a free kick from the left was headed back across the line. Jaime Grondona wrapped up the points and ended any hopes of an unlikely Canadian comeback when he rounded off a fluid eight-pass move, supplying the finishing touch with his very first kick after coming on as a substitute.

Japan 3 vs Scotland 1 (easy win for Asians)

A sell-out crowd at Victoria's Royal Athletic Park saw Japan storm into life with a 3-1 win over Scotland in Group F. Japan took the lead just before half-time after an error by Scotland skipper Scott Cuthbert presented a chance to Yosuke Kashiwagi, who gladly accepted. Tsukasa Umesaki's long-range strike made it 2-0 in the 57th minute and Jun Aoyama added a third after 79 before substitute Ross Campbell netted for the dispirited Scots with eight minutes remaining.

Nigeria 1 Vs Costa Rica 0 (one for Africa)

Ideye shinesNigeria, dancing to the beat of an enjoyable musical accompaniment by compatriots in the lively stands, took the match to Costa Rica from the start of the concluding part of Victoria's double-header. Brown Ideye caused them all manner of problems with his agile, powerful running and he hit the crossbar in the 18th minute. Nigeria goalkeeper Moses Ocheje had to be stretchered off after hurting his neck in a collision just after half-time but the Africans were smiling again when Uwa Echiejile's corner found emerging star Ideye, who watched with joy as his header looped over the outstretched hand of Ticos' goalkeeper Alfonso Quesada in the 75th minute for the game's solitary goal.

Jordan 1 Vs Zambia 1 (one 'historic' point)

Over in Burnaby, the clash between Jordan and Zambia had an explosive start when Tariq Al Jumah was sent off for handling the ball near the goal line to keep out a header by Dennis Banda. Fwayo Tembo scored from the resulting penalty after eight minutes and, at that stage, Zambia looked set to run away with it. However, a sloppy clearance by William Njobvu just before the interval put the pressure on his own goalkeeper Jacob Banda and Jordan's Abdallah Salim beat him to it to equalise. That gave Jordan their first ever U-20 World Cup point, with Zambia's Rodgers Kola also seeing red before the break after an off-the-ball incident as both sides finished with ten men.

Spain 2 Vs Uruguay 2( Spain fight back)

That was followed by a classic as Spain came from two down to snatch a point against Uruguay. The South Americans came closest to going in front in the opening period as Spanish goalkeeper and captain Adan was literally forced to sit on the ball amid a frantic scramble, where Edinson Cavani, Juan Surraco and Luis Suarez all failed to find the decisive touch. The Uruguayans scored first two minutes after the restart when Cavani converted a pass from the left by Luis Suárez, who in turn had received a good ball by Marcel Roman. Nine minutes later it was 2-0 as a cutting combination was forged through the centre by Roman and Suarez, who did not hesitate to shoot from outside the area to fire past Adan. In a twist to the tale, Spain pulled one back with a header by Adrian Lopez after a long pass from Antonio Barragan and, deep into stoppage time, Diego Capel grabbed a dramatic leveller with a clever lob over stranded goalkeeper Mauro Goicoechea.

Brazil 0 Vs Poland 1 ( shocker!!)
A stunning long-range free kick from Grzegorz Krychowiak saw the finals in Canada get off to a thunderous start as European outsiders Poland beat four-time champions Brazil 1-0 on 30 June in the first match at Montreal's cavernous Olympic Stadium. The Poles were forced to play most of the game with ten men after Krzysztof Krol was sent off in minute 27 for a second yellow card, but their corker of a goal in minute 23rd held up to the end as the red-clad dark horses slammed the door on the sumptuous South Americans with a spirited and lively display of direct, enterprising football. After one match, the formbook in Group D can be thrown out the window as Poland lead the standings with three points, and Brazil - the champions of romantic football - sit stranded in the cellar with questions to ask.(Source FIFA)

Brazil revived their Copa America campaign!!

Brazil revived their Copa America campaign by defeating Chile on the back of Robinho's ha-trick. On 36th minute Brazil were awarded a controversial penalty and Robinho converted it calmly to give his country a lead. The result remains on the balance for much of the game and Chileans came close twice to level the score before Robinho added his second goal on 84th minute. He added the third on 87th minute to seal much needed win for Brazil. With two games played, Brazil and Chile have three points each and play their last game of the group against Ecuador and Mexico, respectively.

The first Victory in 40 years!!!

In a bad tempered game where both teams had a player sent off, the host nation of the Copa America, Venezuela, defeated Peru to earn only their second victory in the tournament's history. With Numerical advantage, after Peru's midfielder Pedro Garcia sent off on 14th minute, Venezuela struck four minute in the second half when Cichero headed in from a corner. Substitute Daniel Arismendi added another goal on the 79th minute, despite midfielder Richard Pez sent off for second bookable offence, ensuring there would be no late comeback from their opponent to deny them victory for the first time in 40 years. Venezuela now tops the Group with four points followed by Peru and Uruguay with three.

Uruguay earned their first victory in this tournament to redeem themselves from shock defeat in the first match. Mexican-based striker Vicente Sanchez scored the only goal of the game from close range on 58th minute. Bolivia lies at the bottom of the table with only one point from two games.

Today, Brazil plays against Chile and Mexico plays against Ecuador in Maturin.