#momentum cup 2020 live score

[andiessoccerblog]

USA Exit, Quarterfinals

I wish I had made separate blog posts about these, but my travel back to the USA was overwhelmingly nuts and jet lag has hit me hard, so just pretend this is two separate posts.

USA Exit

In Round of 16, team USA was heartbreakingly eliminated by Sweden in penalty kicks. Ironically, it was the best game that the USWNT played the whole tournament, but even their best was not enough to make the difference against Sweden and their keeper Zećira Mušović, who made 11 saves (most in one game in the world cup so far) to keep the scoreline 0-0. The final penalty kick that gave Sweden the win was almost saved by USa keeper Alyssa Naeher, until goal line technology (7 cameras located around the field) determined that the ball had crossed the line with a millimeter to spare. A SINGLE MILLIMETER.

It is the first World Cup ever where the USA did not get a medal. People have a lot of opinions on why. Some people blame the coach, who will probably be fired just based on the result. Other people (idiots) blame the team themselves, saying they focus too much on money and advocacy and not enough on the game. These players have worked their entire lives to be on this stage, and often this is the only chance they get. It is insulting to these players to say that their singular focus is not winning the World Cup. 

As with a lot of things, the real reason is…it’s complicated. The USA did look disorganized and unprepared in the group stage games, and while Coach Vlakto Andonovski definitely does hold some responsibility, his player pool was also affected by major injuries, and he inherited poor long-term planning strategy from US Soccer. After the 2019 World Cup and the 2020 Olympics, there was not enough done to transition the team from relying exclusively on its older players for goal production. Of the 9 scorers for USA at the 2019 World Cup, only 3 of them were starters in the 2023 World Cup, and only one of them (Lindsay Horan) scored a goal. 

As we have also seen this year, this is the World Cup of Chaos. THREE debutantes made it to the knockout stage, while Germany, Brazil, and Canada did not. Teams are better than ever, and can finally challenge the teams that have been considered elite in other years, including the USA. This is a good thing. 

Quarterfinals

Spain v. Netherlands

Spain and Netherlands both faced easier opponents in the round of 16, Spain taking down Switzerland and Netherlands taking down South Africa. Netherlands has played more consistently over the course of the tournament, and although Spain has shown some really good moments, I do think their 4-0 loss to Japan is indicative of problems against high-ranked teams, and so Netherlands will likely win.

Japan v. Sweden

Of all the games, I think this is the quarterfinal game that will produce the winner of the World Cup. Japan has been on fire, and has shown that they can win against teams like Spain and Norway AND make it look easy. Sweden fought for their life against the USA, and won; they can use that momentum against Japan. Their keeper Mušović is finding her rhythm, and will be a bigger challenge to Japan than any other keepers the country has faced. My pick for this game is Japan winning, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Sweden gets the upset.

Australia v. France

France had an easy win against Morocco in the round of 16, scoring three goals in the first 24 minutes, but only one goal in the rest of the game. Similarly, they had an easy win against Panama in the last group stage match, but were held to only 1 goal in the second half. If France continues to have weak second halves, they could struggle against Australia. The host nation pulls massive crowd support at every game, and has put together strong wins against Canada and Denmark. I think that Australia will use their momentum to put together a win against France.

England v. Colombia

This should be the most predictable result. England should dominate. But they went to penalty kicks against Nigeria, and had close games in the group stage. Colombia beat Jamaica in their round of 16 game, and beat Germany in the group stage, but in both games Colombia was struggling, and many people are saying that it is pure luck that Colombia have gotten to this point in the first stage. I tend to agree, and think England will win this.

[yes3me]

Manchester United West Ham United

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he was pleased with his players' mentality in their FA Cup fifth-round win over West Ham United after "feeling low" following the draw with Everton.

Scott McTominay scored in extra time to send the Red Devils into the quarter-finals.

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An otherwise flat match did contain the first use of a concussion substitution - when Issa Diop was replaced at half-time by Ryan Fredericks after a clash of heads with Anthony Martial.

And Solskjaer felt his players provided the perfect response to conceding a late equaliser in the 3-3 draw with the Toffees on Saturday.

"We needed to have a good result and a good feeling today because we were low after the Everton game," he said.

"That was hard to take but they were really focused and did the job."

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire said he felt the players showed their strength of character to bounce back from the Everton result.

"Last Saturday was tough - especially in the second half," he said.

"We showed great spirit and a good mentality to come back and perform. We know it's a long season and tonight was perfect. It's important to get through."

On a bitterly cold night at Old Trafford, the hosts came closest to breaking the deadlock inside 90 minutes when Lukasz Fabianski reacted quickly to turn the ball on to a post after Victor Lindelof's header had taken a huge deflection off Craig Dawson.

But McTominay had the final word. Following a break that took them from one penalty area to the other, Marcus Rashford - on his 250th United appearance - flicked a delicate pass into McTominay's path with the outside of his foot and the Scotland midfielder's first-time finish flew low into the net.

It means Manchester United have reached the last eight for a seventh consecutive year as they bid to lift the trophy for the first time since 2016.

Watch all of the latest FA Cup highlights and reaction here Listen to BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast Tough night for Moyes It was another disappointing Old Trafford night for former Manchester United manager David Moyes.

Other than during his own ill-fated eight months in charge, it is a ground he has never won at, either with Everton, Sunderland or West Ham.

Before kick-off, the Scot had a good chat with current boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and doubtless wished he had been granted the same time afforded to the Norwegian, who is attempting to win a trophy after losing four successive semi-finals.

Moyes' hopes of stopping the hosts in their tracks were badly affected by injuries that now threaten to derail what so far has been an excellent season.

The sight of Angelo Ogbonna hobbling down the tunnel with his left boot removed, after being stood on by Martial, did not look great, and the manner of Diop's exit suggests Moyes will be without two central defenders for Monday's encounter with Sheffield United.

With their only orthodox striker, Michail Antonio, also missing, West Ham never really gained any momentum and were not helped by yet another injury - this time to Antonio's replacement Andriy Yarmolenko - early in the second half.

Said Benrahma had the Hammers' only effort on target, but even if he had beaten Dean Henderson with a close-range header at the end of extra time, it would almost certainly have been disallowed for offside.

Telles makes most of opportunity A £13.6m summer deadline-day signing from Porto, Alex Telles has been a bit of a conundrum during his time at Old Trafford so far.

The Brazilian evidently has ability - and a vicious left foot - but consistency has eluded him and, with Luke Shaw in the best form of his career, Telles has been unable to force his way into Solskjaer's team on a regular basis.

This was one of his better all-round performances.

It was a Telles corner that created the chance Fabianski kept out and it was his surging run and cutback that Donny van de Beek badly miscued, drawing a frustrated slap at an advertising hoarding from the defender.

Telles also had a fierce shot blocked and then, with the game entering its final 10 minutes, he curled over a superb cross that Martial headed wide.

He was also decent doing the defensive work he is employed for, most notably showing an excellent turn of speed to prevent a threat on the home goal as he got back to rob Jarrod Bowen after Yarmolenko had sent his team-mate through.

Telles did not reappear for extra time as Solskjaer changed both his full-backs, but Telles could still be pleased with his contribution.

First concussion substitute

This game will have a place in football history after Diop became the sport's first concussion substitute in England.

The French defender was introduced as a replacement himself after Ogbonna was forced off with an ankle injury when he was caught on the follow through by Martial.

Diop clashed heads with his compatriot as the pair rose to compete for a header at a West Ham corner.

Both players received treatment and continued to half-time. But after a further examination in the dressing room, in line with the adopted protocols, Diop was replaced by Fredericks, with the visitors reverting to a three-man defence.

"He was fine and I think he is fine," said Moyes. "But he had a bump on the head and we didn't want to take any chances.

"I hope there are no problems. I don't think there is."

Man Utd's record-equalling run - the stats Manchester United have won their last nine home FA Cup matches, their joint-longest home winning run in the competition, equalling their nine consecutive home wins between 1908 and 1912. West Ham have now been eliminated in each of their last four FA Cup ties against Manchester United, losing in a different round each time: fourth round in 2002-03, third round in 2012-13, quarter-final in 2015-16 and fifth round in 2020-21. Scott McTominay has scored seven goals in 30 appearances for Manchester United this season - as many as he scored in his 84 appearances in his first four seasons between 2016-17 and 2019-20. Marcus Rashford registered his ninth assist in all competitions for Manchester United this season, his best return in a single campaign for the club and second only to Bruno Fernandes for the Red Devils in 2020-21 (11). Aged 23 years and 101 days, Marcus Rashford became the fourth youngest player in Manchester United's history to reach 250 games for the club, behind only Norman Whiteside (22 years 192 days), George Best (22 years 199 days) and Ryan Giggs (22 years 301 days). Both Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial played their 250th matches for Man Utd in the same game tonight, only the second time in the club's history that has happened - the other occasion was also at home against West Ham, in August 1986 when both Mike Duxbury and Frank Stapleton did so. What next? Manchester United are next in action at West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League on Sunday (14:00 GMT). West Ham entertain Sheffield United on Monday (18:00).

[italianfootballtheories]

Are We There Yet?

March 8, 2020

Two and a half years on from the Sweden debacle and Euro 2020 (we hope) on the horizon. By coach Mancini’s own admission, 2019 exceeded all expectations for Italy.

Credit: AP/PA Images  

The Azzurri are currently on an 11 game winning streak which includes 10 out of 10 in qualifying, eclipsing legendary Vittorio Pozzo’s longstanding record. Qualification was sealed with three games to spare and ended with the rare symphony of nine goals smashed past Armenia. Fans will be wondering if the boys in blue are back among the big, for real. Things seem rosy (and green) again at Coverciano, but is the renaissance only shirt deep?

Time, and possibly even the upcoming friendlies against Germany and England, will tell if Italy have re-established themselves among Europe’s elite or if the numbers from a (supposedly) modest group have flattered. Many have pointed to the lack of stern opposition faced in 2019 and some will be watching Bosnia’s performance in the play-offs from the corner of their eye for some clues on how accurate that claim has been. With Greece in transition and Bosnia inconsistent, humble Finland was Italy’s biggest threat in Group J and eventually went through in 2nd.

But even if the pessimism is true and Italy truly had a soft group, Roberto Mancini’s achievements are still impressive with all things are considered. When the former Zenith coach landed from Russia (with love), the entire set-up was in disarray; from federation to coaching staff, from the squad right through to fans and a disenchanted nation. Mancini himself was only selected by a commissioner awaiting a president elect for the FIGC - Italian football’s governing body. During 2 friendlies in footballing limbo, interim caretaker Luigi Di Biagio did little to help his future incumbent by naming a largely status quo squad while the country cried for revolution and rejuvenation. 

This left Mancini balancing experimentation with League A survival in the inaugural Nations League. Initially, Mancio was criticized for not using the competition to as an opportunity to restore pride and morale after the World Cup failure. Italy’s Nations League performances did shown progression, but a lack of goals (2 in total) had stifled optimism. Mancini’s vindication would eventually come in Euro qualifying. 

Depending on who you are in football, how you win is as important as winning itself. Mancini would have been forgiven for adopting pragmatism in order to churn out results in Italy’s precarious situation. Many were pleasantly surprised when Mancio gave them positive football; high pressing; playing out from the keeper; and controlled possession in the center with the deployment of both Verratti and Jorginho, defying those who said they couldn’t play together. Far removed from the archetypal Italy teams of the past; an attacking 4-3-3 dotted with exciting youngsters, always trying to score and never resting on the laurels of a 1-goal lead. Italy sides of recent history often scraped in 1-0 victories against the likes of Malta and the Faroe Islands. Each of the Azzurri’s 37 qualifying goals would have been liberating for fans across the peninsula (and beyond). Mancini deserves a lot of credit for flying in the face of tradition in a country that lives and dies by them. 

Of course Italy didn’t fly through the qualifying campaign without the odd bout of turbulence. Mancini’s men really struggled to deal with Dzeko, Pjanic and co in the home fixture against a Bosnia side that rightfully felt they deserved more. Had it not been for 2 moments of magic from Insigne and Verratti, the 100% record would have been nothing more than fan fiction. Away to Armenia, a controversial red card for the home side at 1-1 played a big part in Italy’s underwhelming victory. While away to lowly Liechtenstein, the minnows’ tempo caught Italy on the back foot for sections of the game, drawing fine saves from Sirigu before the flood gates opened late on. Optimists will remind us that great teams win even when they’re not playing well, but the coaching staff should nonetheless be re-watching those performances.  

A lot of time (in footballing terms) has now passed since the festival of goals against Armenia. At rest since November, the following few months will be delicate for the Azzurri, especially for Mancini who’ll want to make sure the momentum hasn’t frozen over during the winter. One of the Azzurri’s strengths in qualifying was their unity and desire to fight for each other under one flag, temporarily putting aside club interests for the greater good. The C.T. has intimated on several occasions that the bulk of his Euro 2020 squad has already been determined, with only 2 or 3 spots up for grabs, so the core looks set to remain intact.  

Mancio does have some other knots to untie though. Zaniolo’s injury almost counts as double, given his flexibility to play in midfield or as part of the front 3. Sensi too, after a superb start to the season, has struggled with injury and subsequently with form; a situation complicated further by the arrival of Eriksen at Inter. Chiellini returns, but this creates as many problems as it solves. Does Mancini reinstate his captain to the starting 11 or keep faith with his vice, Bonucci, and the in-form Acerbi? An ACL injury can be damning for players of an age; it effectively ended Marchisio and Montolivo’s careers, who were both younger than Chiello at the time of injury. The Juventus defender’s experience and dressing room presence alone merits inclusion, but his application on the pitch is still open to assessment. 

Other pillars of the successful qualification run are enduring their own share of troubles in some shape or form. Insigne was instrumental in Italy’s exceptional 2019, but back home in Naples he’s been at odds with club, coach, and fans. Bernardeschi’s form and game-time has been far from desired under Sarri, who’s appeared confused by the former Fiorentina forward’s instruction manual. Speaking of Fiorentina, Chiesa’s form has also been intermittent under the perpetual cloud hanging over his future in Florence. Belotti has stopped scoring of late, coinciding with Torino’s abject form, and even Lorenzo Pellegrini is going through a less than ideal moment in the capital.

The full-back positions are where most of the uncertainty regarding Mancini’s selections lie. Biraghi’s profile has risen since his surprise selection by Mancini and further solidified by his solid performances. Moving to Inter in the summer, the left-back has proved his on-pitch ethic and generosity, but he represents an option of quantity over quality. Spinazzola has played well when called on by club and country, despite the on-off saga of his failed move to Inter. Although the Roma man has struggled with fitness issues of his own and sometimes doesn’t offer enough defensively as he does going forward. Emerson Palmieri is a similar profile and he too is dealing with insufficient playing-time at Chelsea. 

Florenzi seems favorite to start at right-back in his adopted position. The versatile Roman now finds himself on loan at Valencia after being a marginalized captain in the capital. Napoli’s Di Lorenzo seems favorite to be the back-up, even if Spinazzola can also play on the right. Gianluca Mancini and Izzo have deputized on the right, albeit unconvincingly in a role unfamiliar to what they’re used to at club level. 

Upcoming friendlies later this month (if they go ahead) will give more clues on how Mancini plans to mitigate these issues and how the Azzurri fare against a more intimidating measuring stick in the shape of England and Germany.

In addition and on a final note, Serie A players will now have to contend with a fixture list bottle-neck due to coronavirus postponements. Of course, it goes without saying that football is not the top priority when an epidemic and human lives are concerned, but just as Jurgen Klopp suggested, we’ll leave that discussion to the virologists and scientists. My profession doesn’t come with an ist attached to it, so instead I’ll be following recommendations from experts qualified on matters such. As a human being, however, I’m qualified enough to see the all too evident panic driven discrimination and a distinct lack of compassion in a time that desperately needs it. Europe, in particular, seems more divided than ever in a year when the European Championships will be hosted across the continent. A decision intended not only to celebrate the tournament’s anniversary, but to also symbolize the region’s unity. In Italy, as in all of Europe, the irony of that message is spreading faster than the virus.  

[theiteducation]

Cape Cobras vs Warriors Live Streaming, Live Score| CC v WAR LIVE Streaming TV GUIDE |Momentum Cup 2020 Live Streaming, Live Score |Match 3 | 02 Feb Jan 2020 |

Cape Cobras vs Warriors Live Streaming, Live Score| CC v WAR LIVE Streaming TV GUIDE |Momentum Cup 2020 Live Streaming, Live Score |Match 3 | 02 Feb Jan 2020 |

Cape Cobras vs Warriors Live Streaming, Live Score| CC v WAR LIVE Streaming TV GUIDE |Momentum One Day Cup 2020 Live Streaming, Live Score |Match 3 | 02 Feb Jan 2020 | This post about Today Momentum One Day Cup 2020 Live Score Match 3, Cobras vs Warriors Live score, Live Streaming Guide will present CC v WAR Match details, Teams Squads, Dream11, live stream links, and live telecast and…

[eurotickets20]

Ryan Giggs keeping tabs on Gareth Bale fitness ahead of essential Wales qualifiers

Ryan Giggs remains hopeful Gareth Bale will make Wales conclusive Euro 2020 qualifiers against Hungary and Azerbaijan. Sports enthusiasts from around the world can purchase Wales Euro Cup Tickets online to the witness live performance of Euro Cup 2020.

Gareth Bale has not played since scoring in Wales' 1-1 draw with Croatia last month, and his future at Real Madrid has been under strong inspection in recent weeks.

Wales boss Giggs said instantly after the Croatia match that Bale had suffered spasm, but the 30 years old has a calf problem which is again predictable to rule him out of Real's Champions League tie against Galatasaray on Wednesday.

"It was not a big injury, but with the short reversal it's a worry," Giggs said after naming a list of the 27-man squad for the November double-header.

"I'm in invariant contact with him and he feels confident that he'll be fit for the match. It's just observing it this week, factually day by day. The last time I spoke to him he was confident he'd be OK," he added.

Real amuse Galatasaray and visit Eibar in LaLiga before the international break.

Ryan Giggs is hoping that Bale – who confessed he was short of match sharpness in the summer qualifying defeats to Hungary and Croatia after a lack of game-time at the end of last season – will play before join in with the Wales squad.

"That's the ideal condition, that he gets mints before meeting with us," said Giggs.

"They're huge matches and we need to win them (to qualify), we know what we've got to do. We've played against both teams buy we beat Azerbaijan and lost against Hungary.

It was a competitive group, you have to improve on the night. But they're in good form, they've got momentum and We've been pleased with the last 3 matches with the performances. The team was in good shape at that moment and he was confident.

Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who is thus far to play for Wales in Euro 2020 qualifying because of injuries has also been included.

Football fans can get Euro Cup Tickets through our trusted online ticketing market place. EuroTickets2020.com is the most reliable source to book Euro 2020 tickets.

[amoveablejake]

Forty One.

It has been a little while since there has been a football piece but we’re back. 

When I talk about Robert Lewandowski, the first thing that I say is that this is a player to tell the children about. Come to think of it, there isn’t another player that I refer to in this way. I mean, lets get one thing straight, there are a hell of a lot of players that I will bore any potential future children of mine with. They will have to hear about little Diego in Napoli, Cristiano in Manchester, a Frenchman with an up turned collar also in that neck of the woods, Ronaldo in Milan and a seemingly endless list of players that have taken to the stage at the Camp Nou. But there is something about Lewandowski that quite honestly, leaves me lost for words. So with no words coming to mind, the following may be an interesting ride of, um, well, I suppose he is rather good isn’t he. 

In 2020 the Ballon d’Or was cancelled. And we all know why. Except, should it have been cancelled? Despite living in a pandemic world many award ceremonies and events still took place even if they were postponed so why cancel the award ceremony altogether. Especially because the winner of that award should have been Robert. Now, for those who don’t know the Ballon d’Or is a French award that is given out every year to the best football player in the world. Supposedly. I say supposedly because this past week Lionel Messi won his seventh award. And yes, Messi is a phenomenal player, I don’t consider him to be the best of all time but thats a conversation for another day. And yes, I understand that he did have a good year at Barcelona and with Argentina but whilst winning the Copa America is impressive Lewandowski broke a record that at one point no one thought could be broken. Robert Lewandowksi scored forty one goals in the 2020/21 Bundesliga season beating Gerd Muller’s record of forty. But thats just a number, so let’s give it some context. When Gerd Muller scored forty goals in a single season he played more matches that Lewandowski, in part because there were actual more matches to play due to a bigger German top flight league where as now it has been reduced. In addition, Lewandowksi spent parts of the 2020/21 season injured. In the previous season Lewandoski hit 34 goals and at times people thought he had the momentum to reach the hallowed halls of forty. So when the 2020/21 season rolled around there was something in the air. It seemed almost scripted that the record was going to be broken. And with the final kick of the season Lewandowski did it. Its hard to get across how truly impressive this is, its almost like people describing the moon landing. If you didn’t see it at the time, it might not carry the same weight although it absolutely should. 

Robert Lewandowski should have won the 2020 Ballon d’Or and for my money he should have won the 2021 one too. One of the criteria for the Ballon d’Or award is legacy. Now, granted Messi has already carved out quite a legacy however, not only has the Polish forward Lewandowski been continuously successful with Bayern Munich but before he joined the Death Star of German football he also helped to change the face of European football with the cult favourite team of the early twenty tens Borussia Dortmund. Robert has had not had teams built around him. He is in many ways a forward for another time. A classic number nine who will score goals seemingly with his eyes closed. He is in many ways the defining Bundesliga striker, or in actuality the defining European striker and if had played for a national team such as Germany every European Championship and World Cup surely could be theirs. One day, when Lewandowksi retires, I don’t know what we’ll do. He may become a manager or a commentator or a club ambassador but it almost doesn’t matter what he does next because his name is going to be one that is always floating in the air in football stadiums as we tell future generations the legend of the man from Warsaw. In my eyes, up there with Diego. 

I know. 

-Jake, a man who will be walking to the Allianz Arena after this piece, 05/12/2021

[molatsportgist]

It is Monday Gift's world we are living in.

It is Monday Gift’s world we are living in.

FC Robo Queens’ captain, Gift Monday has re-announced her proficiency and consistency in scoring goals, using Betsy Obaseki Invitational Tournament as her new avenue. The forward has continued her scoring momentum from emerging as the highest goal scorer of the NWFL premiership 2020/2021 with 11 goals, to scoring 2 goals (joint highest) at the just concluded Aisha Buhari Cup, Gift has now scored…

[tkmedia]

Tale of the tape: Who will win Euro 2020?

10:21 AM ETThe Euro 2020 final is here at last, albeit a year later than scheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and London will stage a heavyweight clash between England and Italy at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.Roberto Mancini's Italy are seeking the Azzurri's first European title since 1968, while England are attempting to win a major tournament for only the second time, having last tasted success at the 1966 World Cup.Both Italy coach Mancini and England manager Gareth Southgate have revived the fortunes of their respective national teams since taking charge in 2018 and 2016 respectively, but Sunday will be decided by the players on the pitch.- Euro 2020 on ESPN: Stream LIVE games and replays (U.S. only) - Euro 2020: Live on ESPN | VAR watch | Pick 'em - Don't have ESPN? Get instant accessWill Raheem Sterling or Harry Kane inspire England to glory? Or will the defensive organisation of Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci pave the way for someone like Federico Chiesa to score another crucial goal for the Italians?Both teams are unbeaten at Euro 2020 and the game appears too close to call. Here's how Italy and England stack up ahead of Sunday's clash.2 RelatedGoalkeeper:So far at Euro 2020, the goalkeeping department has been a position of strength for both Italy and England.Gianluigi Donnarumma, expected to sign for Paris Saint-Germain this month following the expiration of his AC Milan contract, has justified his billing as Gianluigi Buffon's natural successor by providing presence, reliability and stature in goal for Italy.The 22-year-old, at 6-foot-5 inches tall, cuts a commanding figure and he has been beaten just twice in six games. His save of Alvaro Morata's during the penalty shootout win against Spain in the semifinal gave Jorginho the chance to win it.One of Italy's key strengths at the Euros has been the defensive axis forged between Donnarumma and veteran centre-halves Chiellini and Bonucci. Together, they pose a formidable unit.For England, Jordan Pickford went into Euro 2020 with question marks over his reliability. Despite being a consistent performer for England, his club form for Everton last season was mixed, with the 27-year-old making a number of costly, high-profile mistakes.That said, he has once again saved his best performances for the national team and, aside from some wayward passes during the semifinal win against Denmark, Pickford has been outstanding this summer. His reflex saves and ability to quickly get down low to save have led to him conceding just one goal so far, and his kicking has often sparked breakaway attacks. And although he can take risks, he has cut out many of the mistakes that have plagued him at club level. Defence:Both teams have largely operated with a back four, although England played with a back three during the round-of-16 victory against Germany, with Manchester City right-back Kyle Walker moving inside to partner John Stones and Harry Maguire.Italy coach Mancini is unlikely to divert from a back four that has served him well throughout the tournament, although the Achilles injury sustained by Leonardo Spinazzola during the quarterfinal win against Belgium saw Chelsea left-back Emerson promoted to the starting lineup in the semifinal against Spain.Emerson is likely to keep his place alongside Bonucci and Chiellini, with Giovanni Di Lorenzo occupying the right-back slot. Everything is held together and controlled by Bonucci and Chiellini in a defence that went 11 games without conceding a goal until the round-of-16 win over Austria, which Italy won 2-1.England coach Southgate has a variety of options, having rotated over the course of their six games. Walker and Kieran Trippier have both played at right-back, while Trippier started the opening game against Croatia at left-back.Luke Shaw has since occupied that role and has enjoyed an impressive tournament, linking well with Raheem Sterling down the left, and the Manchester United defender is almost certain to start on Sunday. Stones and Maguire will continue at centre-half, but don't be surprised if Southgate mixes up the formation.Midfield:Kalvin Phillips and Declan Rice have been England's defensive midfield pair throughout the tournament and Southgate has so far resisted the temptation to restore the fit-again Jordan Henderson.With the Leeds and West Ham duo performing the double pivot role, Southgate has selected attacking midfielders ahead of them, operating behind centre-forward Harry Kane. Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka, Mason Mount and Jack Grealish have all been handed starts by Southgate, with the coach tailoring his selection to the opposition. Mount is likely to start against Italy, but Southgate could go with any of the other three, or even bolster the area with Henderson, in his starting team for the final.Italy's selection in midfield been more predictable and consistent, with Mancini operating with a three-man midfield throughout the tournament. Jorginho, Marco Verratti and Nicolo Barella have started each of the three games in the knockout stages and are likely to form the same midfield for the final. Jorginho's control of the ball, Verratti's passing range and Barella's threat in attacking positions make Italy the biggest challenge that England have faced in the centre of the pitch.Could an in-form Harry Kane be the difference-maker for England on Sunday against Italy? Photo by Carl Recine - Pool/Getty ImagesAttack:England's main threat has come from Kane and Sterling, with the two forwards scoring seven of England's 10 goals.Tottenham forward Kane failed to score in the group stage, but he has come to life in the knockout rounds by hitting the back of the net against Germany, Ukraine (twice) and Denmark.Kane and Sterling will start on Sunday, but England have other forwards capable of making an impact. Marcus Rashford has been given just 83 minutes' playing time, while Jadon Sancho and Dominic Calvert-Lewin have also been relatively under-used.Italy have outscored England with 12 goals in six games, but they have spread them around the team and have five players -- Lorenzo Insigne, Ciro Immobile, Chiesa, Manuel Locatelli and Matteo Pessina -- on two goals.Immobile is likely to start with Andrea Belotti once again in reserve. With Chiesa having scored twice in two games at Wembley, Mancini may start with the Juventus forward with Insigne or Domenico Berardi as the third forward.Star players:Sterling has been England's most consistent and greatest impact player of the tournament. He has scored goals, created them, won penalties and generally provided a crucial attacking outlet for Southgate's team. His partnership with Shaw has been a big factor and an area that the Italians will undoubtedly look to control.Kane is clearly a match winner, and needs one goal to draw level with Cristiano Ronaldo and Patrik Schick on five goals for the tournament -- though Ronaldo is primed to win the Golden Boot as he is the only one of the trio with an assist to his name. To win the Golden Boot, Kane needs to score at least two goals, or get a goal and at least two assists.Then there is Rashford, Foden, Sancho and Grealish, all of whom could quite easily claim the headlines with a match-winning display.For Italy, the team has been the star, with each area of Mancini's side delivering when it matters. Chiellini has offered a reminder of the beauty of world-class defending, while Jorginho and Verratti have enjoyed great tournaments in midfield.Further forward, Chiesa has delivered big goals at crucial moments, but the strength of Italy comes from the collective unity of the team rather than one or two outstanding individuals.Roberto Mancini's Italy will be looking to win the country's second European Championship, and first since 1968. GettyIntangibles (coaching, momentum etc.):England have never beaten Italy at a major tournament, losing against the Azzurri at the 2014 World Cup, Euro 2012 and Euro 1980, and their last competitive win came in a World Cup qualifier at Wembley in November 1977.But Euro 2020 has been a tournament in which England have ended a number of negative sequences -- they won their opening game for the first time at a Euros, beat Germany in the round of 16 to win a knock-out Euros tie without a penalty shootout for the first time and, by winning the semifinal against Denmark, reached the final for a first time. No team has won the Euros on home soil since France in 1984, so England are also aiming to end that 37-year wait.

The beautiful game lives here. Unlock world-class coverage of top leagues, tournaments and teams. Sign up now to stream soccer on ESPN+FRIDAY, JULY 9 • Cincinnati vs. Columbus (7:30 p.m. ET)SUNDAY, JULY 11 • Italy vs. England (3 p.m. ET) Italy have lost just once in six games against England at Wembley, so the superstitious Mancini will believe that the omens are on his team's side. Italy also won knockout ties against Austria and Spain at Wembley en route to the final.Sunday will be England's 16th major tournament game at Wembley, having won 11 and drawn four of the previous 15. The Euro 96 penalty shootout defeat against Germany in the semifinals is classed as a draw, having been level at the end of play.So going into the game, both teams will believe that Wembley is their lucky ground -- but only one of them will be right.Prediction: Italy 2-1 EnglandIt's a tough one to call, with neither team an overwhelming favourite to win. They are two evenly matched sides, both of whom are carrying their own sense of destiny, with big-game players on each team.England will play to win, while Italy's defensive and tactical discipline means that they can, and will, play to not lose. England simply need to be able to break Italy down without leaving gaps at the back for Mancini's players to exploit.Italy have the experience and game management skills to be able to defuse the home atmosphere and make it a battle of attrition for England, but they also possess the attacking qualities to hurt Southgate's team.If Italy are able to fulfill their game plan, they will win. But it will be close. Read the full article

[euro2020blogjayb]

Semi finals blog - Part 1

England have reached the final of a major tournament for the first time in 55 years after defeating Denmark 2-1 at Wembley in front of over 60,000 supporters! The last time England reached a final was in 1966 and that was when Sir Geoff Hurst scored a hattrick at Wembley to win the World Cup for the Three Lions. This is a monumental achievement and will go down in history. Gareth Southgate has done a terrific job with his highly talented and skilful squad of players. England finished top of Group D after beating Croatia and the Czech Republic as well as avoiding defeat against bitter rivals Scotland. They have been very good in the knockout stages, defeating Germany with aplomb and absolutely destroyed Ukraine in Rome. To finally get over the semi final stage shows improvement in the England team. It shows progress and has made a nation of people believe again. It has restored national pride and it has made a lot of people fall back in love with international football. More importantly, it shows that the players and the manager have bottle. They have learned their lessons from the harsh experience of defeat from the 2018 Russia World Cup when Croatia scored the winner in extra time. This semi final also went to extra time but England were by far the better team and deserved to win the match. Denmark looked tired and out of ideas. They struggled to respond to the barrage of attacks coming from England’s players.

 The boy from Brent, Raheem Sterling, won a penalty which Harry Kane took. Kasper Schmeichel, who was absolutely terrific and my man of the match, saved the penalty but Kane was able to get to the rebound and put it into the back of the net subsequently. This would be the winning goal of the match. The goal that would send England through to the final of Euro 2020. Thankfully, England were able to hold on to the lead and saw the game out. The post match scenes were lovely to see. The players were applauding the supporters and were singing along to Sweet Caroline. The atmosphere was fantastic. The mood was good and people were clearly in very high spirits. If England win the final against Italy on Sunday then there will be total pandemonium and jubilation. There is no doubt about that.  I must congratulate Denmark for getting so far in the competition. They have been terrific and all the players get my respect and admiration. They were able to overcome the odds, especially after losing their talisman, Christian Eriksen , from the first game. Thankfully he is recovering and is currently in good health. After losing their opening two matches, Denmark won three games in a row and gave England a really good game. Every single one of them are heroes and the country should be very proud of how far the team have come. 

It can be argued that the penalty awarded to England was soft however, when you watch the replay of the foul, there is contact between Joachim Maele’s leg and Raheem Sterling. Sterling was travelling at such a high speed that even minimal contact would have been enough to have caused him to fall over. Sterling did what most players would have done. If you had the chance to win your team a penalty during extra time to go one goal ahead you would go down in the box if there was contact. England deserved a penalty anyway because earlier on in the game, Harry Kane was fouled in the box but the referee gave Denmark a freekick instead. You can even argue that the Denmark freekick in the first half should not have been given because there wasn’t a foul on Vestegaard. Swings and roundabouts. Sometimes in football you need a decision to go your way. You need a bit of good luck to get over the line and go all the way. I’m not saying England were completely lucky to go through. They deserved to get to the final and are in there on merit. Denmark did not have the same level of intensity as England and Southgate’s men were slowly wearing the opposition out. England have good players in all areas of the pitch therefore they can push teams to the limit and make them suffer which is what happened. Denmark were on the ropes for a while and were hanging on for dear life. 

Denmark took the lead in the first half thanks to an excellent freekick from Mikkel Damsgaard. The youngster from Sampdoria scored the first goal of the match and scored the one and only goal against England in the entire tournament so far. Jordan Pickford perhaps could have done better and possible could have changed his positioning  slightly so that he would have been able to save the freekick. He looked a little shaky but he will be glad that his defence put in a solid performance. Harry Maguire was magnificent. He has been terrific in this European Championship. He won 8 aerial duels and always tried to drive forward to start attacks. As a Man Utd fan, this is a delight to see and although I criticised him a lot in 2020, I can’t praise him enough now. Luke Shaw was tremendous as per usual. Don’t really need to say anymore about him. Rice and Phillips did well in the midfield. Mount looked lively. Saka was really good. At 19 years of age, it has become very apparent how talented he is. He has put in some very mature performances during this tournament. It is no surprise that Gareth trusts him and gives him a start in such a huge game. Raheem Sterling was once again a threat and was making lots of direct runs into the opposition half. He is an excellent player and he should be the player of the tournament for England because he has been fantastic. His contribution has been massive.  After Denmark scored and made the score 1-0, England responded. They did not panic or capitulate or make silly errors which was very reassuring to see. England only increased the intensity with which they attacked. Sterling made a darting run into the box and shot but Schmeichel made a great close range save. England were not done though. Kane made a wonderful pass to Bukayo Saka that cut through the Danish defence. Saka saw Sterling and made an accurate cross. The Danish centre back Simon Kaer had no choice but to try and clear the cross but in the event of doing it put the ball into his own net and scored an own goal. The scores were level. 1-1. Game on. 

England continued to attack in the second half. Out of the two teams they looked more like scoring. Denmark did create chances although they did not trouble the England backline or Pickford that much. Dolberg made some good shots but it was nothing too serious or worrying. England kept attacking and Harry Maguire almost scored from a header. He has been very dangerous with his headers. He scored a really good headed goal against Ukraine in the QFs. The score was level at 1-1 at normal time. It had been a pulsating 90 minutes of football. 

England had the momentum during extra time. After the penalty and the goal from Kane, Southgate went to a back five, substituting off Jack Grealish for Kieran Trippier. It paid off and England finished the game 2-1 as winners. Into the final.

England will play Italy on Sunday in the Euro 2020 final under the famous golden Wembley arches. It is going to be a difficult game. It will be very fascinating to see the tactical battle being played out. How Kane and Sterling try to find ways through the mostly impenetrable defence especially with the experience of Bonucci and Chiellini there. The Italians love defending but this side can also attack and score goals. Lorenzo Insigne is very good and Frederico Chiesa is superb when he goes forward as he is very direct and his shooting is impressive. He has scored two huge goals for Italy in the knockout stages of this tournament. He is a player that Kyle Walker will need to keep quiet. Italy’s midfield three of Marco Verratti, Jorginho and Nicolo Barella is very strong. They are all very technically gifted players therefore they are good at transitioning the play from defence to attack. The midfield battle will be an interesting one. England have Mason Mount who can make good through balls and passes into the final third. Kalvin Phillips is a master at interceptions. Declan Rice’s distribution is very precise most of the time. We shall see how things pan out. England can win but Gareth Southgate needs to get his tactics right and do everything he can to nullify the Italian players. Mancini is a good manager therefore if he needs to change the formation, structure or his tactical approach, he will do so. Italy have tremendous squad depth like England. Locatelli, who was excellent in the group stages can come on, Berardi is quite dangerous on the right wing and Torino forward, Belotti is good at holding up the ball. England have flair players that are creative and will be to create chances and unlock defences. Jadon Sancho and Jack Grealish can come off the bench. The youngester, Bellingham can provide some much needed pressing and aggressive play with his youthful energy and enthusiasm. Jordan Henderson can come in to stabilise the midfield as he brings a lot of experience plus has a winning mentality because he has won major trophies with Liverpool and will add composure to England’s midfield which  will help them to dominate the game in the middle of the park.  Italy have not lost a game since 2018 but every long winning streak must come to an end. It’s time for England to get some glory. It’s time to end all the painful memories and bring football home. It’s up to you England. It’s up to you Southgate. You know what you need to do. You know what’s at stake. This is the chance to create history. Let’ s do it. Let’s win the final. Make the nation proud. It’s coming home. 

[bbcbreakingnews]

Arsenal vs Newcastle – FA Cup Third Round: live score and updates

Arsenal will kickstart their FA Cup defence at home against Newcastle at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday night.  

Mikel Arteta had been under huge pressure at the back end of 2020 but three successive wins have seen momentum build and the Gunners are now a side in form. 

Newcastle were left bitterly disappointed at bowing out of the Carabao Cup at the quarter-final stage to Brentford but will know they have their work cut out on the road against Arsenal.  

Follow Sportmail’s DAN RIPLEY for live FA Cup coverage of Arsenal vs Newcastle including score, lineups and build-up.

source https://bbcbreakingnews.com/2021/01/09/arsenal-vs-newcastle-fa-cup-third-round-live-score-and-updates/

[hsrsports]

New York, 29,5,2020, Friday

El Salvador beat Honduras 6-3 in the 19th FIFA World Cup qualifying tournament. This began to hit the citizens of El Salvador origin living in Honduras. The popular demand to invade Honduras and teach a lesson similar to football in war was gaining momentum in El Salvador. Cricket is played in a handful of countries while the game of football is popular in every continent of the world.

Whether it is Africa or America, Europe or Latin America, there is a kind of passion for football. Held every two years, the FIFA World Cup is the biggest football event. The atmosphere in the stadium becomes tense due to emotion and excitement during a football match. Sometimes there are incidents where supporters get into fights. However, it would be surprising to know that a football match caused a war between the two countries. In the history of football, it is known as football war or soccer war.

The 16th FIFA World Cup qualifying tournament was between the Latin American country of Honduras and El Salvador. The country that wins by an average will have a chance to participate in the World Cup to be held in 190. Honduras and Salvador are both neighbors but relations have always been sour. El Salvador is five times smaller than Honduras in terms of area on the northwestern border of Honduras. In the 20th century, there was ample border between the two countries.

The people of the Mestizo ethnic group moved and lived freely. Large numbers of refugees began arriving in Honduras from El Salvador, especially after 150 AD. Eighty percent of Honduras' population, or one in five, were native to El Salvador. Displaced people of El Salvador descent also became owners of arable land and property in Honduras over time. In 190, more than half a million people came to Honduras from Salvador.

The people of Salvadoran origin in Honduras lived with their identities rather than merging. This often led to violent riots and fights between the two groups. The problem of refugee citizens of El Salvador origin was also a burning question in Honduran politics. In 1903, the Honduran government began the process of stripping people of El Salvador descent of their land rights and property. On the 19th, the border to El Salvador was sealed off and the entry of refugees was stopped. The Honduran government blamed neighboring El Salvador for the growing chaos and intolerance in the country.

On the one hand, the harsh action of the Honduran government created a nationalist atmosphere at home, on the other hand, the people of the neighboring country of El Salvador and the government were incensed by the action of the Honduran government. In this regard, relations between the two countries became tense and the citizens living together began to be harassed. In such a delicate period, the football match between Honduras and El Salvador served to ignite the fire. The first match of the qualifying round was played on June 16 in Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras. People of El Salvador descent living in Honduras favored the El Salvador football team and provoked local football fans. So the Honduran extremists threw stones at the hotel where the El Salvador football players landed.

Honduras won the first match 1-0 in a tense and tense atmosphere. The result of the match in El Salvador caused Ritsar to mourn. Eighteen-year-old Amelia Bolanos was watching a match on TV in El Salvador. When Honduras striker Roberto Cardano scored in the last minute, he got angry. She had committed suicide by firing her father's licensed gun from the closet. The incident is described in a book called The Soccer War by an American journalist. Four days later, the second match took place in El Salvador, where the Honduran football team was greeted by people throwing rotten eggs and dead rats. The national flag of Honduras was hoisted. The players were escorted to the football field in armored cars.

The armed forces surrounded the football stadium from all sides. Four people were killed in a storm that erupted before a football match began. The Honduras team lost the match 0-4 in a war-torn environment, not a match inside or outside the football ground. The Honduran coach breathed a sigh of relief after the match. The coach kept applauding the players despite losing, saying that if you had won the match you probably wouldn't have survived. The third match of the qualifying round between Honduras and El Salvador was pending. FIFA decided to hold the last match in Mexico City in a neutral place due to tension. The clash on June 8 saw a thorny issue between the two countries.

In the final, El Salvador won the match 3-2, qualifying for the 150th World Cup for the first time. News of El Salvador's defeat to Honduras in a football match spread through the airwaves and began to hit citizens of El Salvador descent in Honduras. The demand to invade Honduras and teach it a lesson similar to football in the war gained momentum in El Salvador. The El Salvador government came under so much pressure that it finally attacked Honduras on July 15 with tanks and fighter jets. Honduras also responded to the attack. A 100-hour war broke out between the two countries in which more than 2,000 people were killed. Women were raped and hundreds were left homeless. As international pressure mounted, both countries agreed to declare a ceasefire. Both countries have been knocked out by the International Court of Justice on the issue of refugees.

- https://ift.tt/34vXvMA

[mitchbeck]

CANTLON'S CORNER: HOCKEY NEWS AND NOTES OFF SEASON VOLUME 11

BY: Gerry Cantlon, Howlings HARTFORD, CT - With activity in professional hockey picking up momentum almost daily, there is news aplenty starting with the naming of a new AHL team. In a sleekly produced professional presentation, the AHL's newest franchise was launched in a 21st century-style. The Henderson (NV) Silver Knights were officially announced at 7:30 pm PT on May 28th in a one-hour presentation on NBC Affiliate, KSNV-TV. Last season's San Antonio Rampage was purchased in February and then relocated to Henderson, a nearby suburb of Las Vegas. The Silver Knights will play their inaugural 2020-21 season at the Orleans Arena, which is located in the Orleans Hotel and Casino, the one time home of the ECHL Las Vegas Wranglers (2003-2014). The Silver Knights will play at the Orleans Arena while the brand new, $80 million, 6,100 seat Lifeguard Arena is completed. On May 19, 2020, the City of Henderson approved a project agreement with SK Arena, LLC (SK Arena), an affiliate of the Vegas Golden Knights. Vegas Golden Knights Owner, Chairman, and CEO, Bill Foley, was clearly jovial while explaining the genesis and meaning of the name, "Silver Knights" and the design points of the team logo. “Today is a momentous day for our organization, the City of Henderson, and the entire Southern Nevada community. After years of planning and preparation, we finally get to welcome the Henderson Silver Knights home." The logo has a great deep meaning for Foley, a US Army veteran. “In medieval civilization, the armored warhorse was synonymous with strength, endurance, and fearlessness during battle. The armored warhorse helped establish knights as the undisputed epitome of the warrior class. The knight on horseback is one of the most intimidating symbols of its time. A truly fearsome opponent, the knight on horseback embraced the mentality of always advancing and never retreating. "The horse played a vital role in a knight’s quest to become elite, assisting in the knight’s training, skill advancement, and overall development. As the primary affiliate of the Vegas Golden Knights, the Henderson Silver Knights hold an identical position: Assisting in every aspect of the knight’s quest to become an elite warrior.” Foley discussed the benefit of moving their team from the Chicago Wolves to their new location. “Instead of watching our team streaming in Chicago, I can go to Henderson and see them live. Its gonna be a great building in Henderson.” The coaching staff in Chicago was led by head coach, Rocky Thompson, who will still be behind the bench for the Silver Knights, who will play a 68 game schedule in the AHL Pacific Division. Ten of those games will be broadcast live on KSNV-TV next season. Nevada is known as the Silver State and is home to the largest wild horse population in the United States. Both of these facts are referenced on the back of the state quarter. The three primary colors of the Henderson Silver Knights team will be silver, gold, and black. AHL AWARD WINNERS The American Hockey League announced today that Belleville Senators forward Josh Norris has been voted the winner of the Dudley (Red) Garrett Memorial Award as the AHL’s outstanding rookie for the 2019-20 season. Norris, who earned spots on the AHL First All-Star Team and the AHL All-Rookie Team for 2019-20, was the league’s top-scoring rookie with 31 goals and 61 points in 56 games for Belleville. He finished tied for third in the overall scoring race, the highest finish by an AHL rookie since Cory Conacher placed second in 2011-12, and paced the Senators offense. Norris had a 13-game scoring streak from December 20 to January 15 – matching the longest by an AHL rookie since 2005 – and was held scoreless in back-to-back games just once from October 19 through the end of the season. A 21-year-old native of Oxford, Mich., Norris also appeared in three games with the Ottawa Senators this season, making his National Hockey League debut on February 22nd against Montreal. Then Jake Bean of the Charlotte Checkers was announced the winner of the Eddie Shore Award as the AHL’s outstanding defenseman. The 21-year-old Bean led all AHL defensemen in scoring with 48 points in 59 games for the Checkers this season, collecting 10 goals and 38 assists to finish as the leading scorer on Charlotte’s roster. Bean recorded 21 points on the power play, and his special-teams play helped the Checkers rank third in the league in efficiency both with the man advantage (22.8 percent) and while shorthanded (87.0 percent). A native of Calgary, Alta., Bean was also a First Team AHL All-Star selection and participated in the 2020 AHL All-Star Classic this season, following a debut 2018-19 campaign that saw him capture AHL All-Rookie honors and a Calder Cup championship with Charlotte. So far he has totaled 23 goals and 69 assists for 92 points in 129 regular-season games over his two AHL seasons. Bean was the Carolina Hurricanes’ first-round selection (13th overall) in the 2016 NHL Draft and skated in two games with the Canes last year. Bean is just the third player ever to earn the Eddie Shore Award before his 22nd birthday, joining Sami Niku Manitoba (2018) and Craig Levie Nova Scotia (1981). Kaapo Kahkonen of the Iowa Wild was named the winner of the Aldege “Baz” Bastien Memorial Award as the AHL’s outstanding goaltender. Named a 2019-20 First Team AHL All-Star last week, Kahkonen made 34 appearances for the Wild this season, helping the club to the best regular-season record in franchise history. Kahkonen led the AHL in victories (25-6-3) and shutouts (seven) and ranked fourth in goals-against average (2.07) and save percentage (.927) while placing among the top 10 in minutes played and shots faced. He won the CCM/AHL Goaltender of the Month for February, the last full month of AHL play. Kahkonen finished the year with a 10-1-1 record (1.16 GAA, .961 save percentage) and five shutouts in his last 12 starts. A 23-year-old native of Helsinki, Finland, Kahkonen also made his National Hockey League debut this season, going 3-1-1 with a 2.96 GAA and a .913 save percentage in five appearances with the Minnesota Wild. Kahkonen was Minnesota’s fourth-round selection in the 2014 NHL Draft. Read the full article

[sportzcraazy30]

Dolphins will take on Titans in the 18th match of the Momentum One-Day Cup 2020 on Thursday, February 27. The DOL vs TIT live match. https://www.sportzcraazy.com/

[theiteducation]

CC vs Lions LIVE | Cape Cobras vs Lions Live| Live Score, Live Streaming, TV GUIDE |Momentum Cup 2020 Live |Match 4 | 07 Feb Jan 2020 |

CC vs Lions LIVE | Cape Cobras vs Lions Live| Live Score, Live Streaming, TV GUIDE |Momentum Cup 2020 Live |Match 4 | 07 Feb Jan 2020 |

CC vs Lions LIVE | Cape Cobras vs Lions Live| Live Score, Live Streaming, TV GUIDE |Momentum Cup 2020 Live |Match 4 | 07 Feb Jan 2020 . This post about Today Momentum One Day Cup 2020 Live Score Match 4 Dream11 , Cobras vs Lions Live score, Live Streaming Guide will present CC v Lions Match details, Teams Squads, Dream11, live stream links, and live telecast and broadcast Tv guide with team…

[thisdaynews]

Australian Open: Sofia Kenin beats Garbine Muguruza to win title

New Post has been published on https://thebiafrastar.com/australian-open-sofia-kenin-beats-garbine-muguruza-to-win-title/

Australian Open: Sofia Kenin beats Garbine Muguruza to win title

By Jonathan Jurejko

BBC Sport at Melbourne Park

Sofia Kenin sealed victory when Garbine Muguruza double-faulted on championship point

2020 Australian Open Venue:Melbourne ParkDates:20 January to 2 February Coverage:Listen on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra and online; Live text on selected matches on the BBC Sport website and app; Watch highlights on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.

American Sofia Kenin fulfilled her potential by winning a first Grand Slam title with victory over Spain’s Garbine Muguruza at the Australian Open.

Kenin won 4-6 6-2 6-2 against two-time major winner Muguruza in Melbourne.

The 21-year-old was a child prodigy, who started making television appearances from the age of five and hitting with the stars soon after.

“My dream has officially come true,” said Kenin, the eighth first-time women’s champion in the past 12 Slams.

“Dreams come true. If you have a dream then go for it – it will come true.

“These two weeks have been the best two weeks of my life.”

Kenin, who turned 21 in November, is the youngest Australian Open champion since Russian Maria Sharapova in 2008.

The American 14th seed was gifted victory when Muguruza produced a double fault on the second match point – the Spaniard’s third of the game and eighth of the match.

Kenin dropped her racquet to the court and covered her face in shock, before going over to the opposite corner where her dad – and coach – Alex was sitting.

The pair warmly cupped hands before she returned to the court, spinning around and lifting her arms up towards him again in a gesture which summed up her shock.

Reaction to Kenin’s victory over Muguruza

Live scores, schedule and results

Alerts: Get tennis news sent to your phone

Confident Kenin fulfils a dream long predicted to come true

Sofia Kenin will become the highest-ranked American when the new list is published on Monday

Kenin was born in Russia but was a few months old when she moved with her parents to the United States, where she picked up a racquet at the age of five.

Raised in Florida, she quickly became a star in the States, featuring on television programmes and the covers of magazines which predicted a successful professional career ahead.

Famously, aged five, she claimed she would be able to return a serve from hard-hitting American star Andy Roddick, then practised with Grand Slam champions John McEnroe, Venus Williams and Kim Clijsters.

Two years later she spoke of her ambition to win one of the sport’s biggest prizes.

Now she has achieved her dream. And that confidence illustrated while still at primary school remains one of her key attributes.

Kenin never gives up and never shies away from a fight on court, which is what she found herself in after Muguruza won the opening set.

Demonstratively frustrated, she came out punching in the second, returning even more relentlessly than usual. Muguruza, who won the 2016 French Open and 2017 Wimbedon titles, could not cope.

Breaks at 2-1 and 5-3 enabled Kenin to take the match into a decider, before she swung the momentum of a tight third set her way with a monumental hold for 3-3.

Trailing 40-0, she fought back with five points of the highest quality. Two backhands down the line under the most intense of pressure were outrageous, a third winner – this time down the other flank – almost ridiculous.

An ace out wide and a crosscourt forehand winner – after drawing Muguruza into the net – clinched the hold. It also virtually clinched the championship.

From that point, Muguruza’s confidence waned, with the Spaniard losing serve in the next game and again – in the most painful of circumstances – in what proved to be the final game.

More to follow.

Read More

[thepoolscene]

The Pool Scene - - Independent

New Post on https://thepoolscene.com/?p=55488

Champions Shine at Space City Open VIII

Woodward, Gomez, Aranas, Ng, and Martinez, III Earn Titles

Sky Woodward swept the Space City Open VIII, 128-player 9-ball division, taking down Roberto “Superman” Gomez in the final set, 9-2. The two-time Mosconi Cup MVP finished second in the one pocket and 5th-6th in the 9-ball banks, to become the newest, Space City Open “All-Around” Champion. Gomez took home his first title in the one pocket division, and although he took second in the 9-ball, he was unable to catch Woodward in the all-around points race. James “DD” Aranas showed off his skills in the 9-ball banks, holding all of his opponents to two or less games, and defeating Jalal Alsarisi in the final, 4-2. In the ladies 9-ball division, Ming “The Empress” Ng defended her title against Ellen Robinson, and Lazaro “Little Laz” Martinez, III, defeated brother, Gabriel Martinez, capturing his second, consecutive, junior 9-ball title.

The largest pool tournament in Texas, the annual Space City Open, has a reputation of hosting some of the greatest players in the world. This year was exceptional, with the return of Sky Woodward. The recently named, Mosconi Cup MVP, debuted at the 2012 Space City Open, winning the 9-ball banks division, and making his last appearance in 2014. Five years later, Woodward joined a star-studded line-up, including Roberto Gomez, James Aranas, Jalal Alsarisi, and Tommy Tokoph, along with defending 9-ball champion, James Davis, Jr., defending one pocket champion, Josh Roberts, and defending banks champion, Evan Lunda, to compete for a piece of the $56,770 payout, and $1,500 all-around bonus, sponsored by John Newsome and Johnny Gonzales of Eagle Plumbing.

The derby-like, Space City Open VIII, was held December 5th-8th, 2019, at Big Tyme Billiards in Spring, Texas, amassing 178 players, over five divisions, with four days of free live streaming provided by Southern Streaming. The 9-ball was played on twenty Diamond bar tables, and the one pocket and banks were played on six, nine foot tables. Cyclop “Zeus” ball sets and Accu-Racks by Outsville Billiards were provided for all divisions.

The open 9-ball division presented a more than stellar field. Tommy Tokoph, formerly of Albuquerque, New Mexico, now residing in Houston, took the field by storm. Making his way to the final eight on the winners’ side, Tokoph defeated James Aranas, 9-8, J.C.Torres, 9-5, Roberto Gomez, 9-4, and Aaron Springs, 9-5. Josh Roberts ousted Neil Saidawi, 9-0, Mike Hefren, Jon Demet, 9-4, and Marvin Diaz, 9-1. Jalal Alsarisi ran through Glenn Mitchell, 9-6, Sylver Ochoa, 9-0, Barry Strickland, 9-2, and Marc Garza, 9-6. Oklahoma’s Joey Gray overwhelmed Victor Rojas, 9-2, Roberto Aguilar, 9-1, Louis Vickio, 9-1, and Josh Hillard, 9-4. Also from Oklahoma, Billy Dyke defeated David Chow, 9-3, Bobby Perez, 9-8, Tony Scott, 9-5, and Troy Woodard, 9-5. Kevin Guimond bested Alexander Mojica, 9-1, Ellen Robinson, 9-0, Colton Berzins, 9-2, and Tony Top, 9-3. Sky Woodward claimed victories over Chris Baggett, 9-4, Evan Lunda, 9-6, Manny Chau, 9-1, and Ernesto Bayaua, 9-3, while James Davis, Jr. disappointed David Williams, 9-3, Andrew Rodriguez, 9-1, Joey Bourgeois, Jr., 9-4, and Joey Torres, 9-7. Settling the winners’ side, final four, Tokoph sent Roberts west, 9-7, while Alasarisi demolished Gray, 9-3. Dyke overcame Guimond, 9-6, and Woodward wasted little time with Davis, Jr., sending him west, 9-1. Reaching the final eight on the one-loss side, Jesus Atencio amassed eight wins, including victories over John Gabriel, 7-1, and Roberts, 7-0. Gomez ended Bayaua, 7-5, and Gray, 7-4, while Derek Fontenot booked seven matches, with wins over Manny Chau, 7-2, and Guimond, 7-3. After losing his first match to Charlie Bryant, 9-4, Alex Calderone closed out seven sets, with triumphs over Marc Garza and Davis, Jr., by the same score, 7-1. Back on the east side, Tokoph forged ahead, beating Alsarisi, 9-7, while Woodward throttled Dyke, 9-1. For the first time, crowds witnessed a hot seat match-up with the indomitable Sky Woodward, and one of Houston’s best, Tommy Tokoph. With three of his four previous matches yielding 9-1 scores, Woodward maintained his momentum, dealing Tokoph his first loss, 9-1. With four remaining on the west side, Gomez thwarted Atencio, and hindered Dyke, by the same score, 7-2. Calderone secured an eighth win over Fontenot, 7-6, but came up short against Alsarisi, 7-6. After losing his third round match to Tokoph, Gomez took out nine players on the one-loss side, including Alsarisi, 7-1, and finally, Tokoph, 7-1, to meet Woodward. Gomez faced off with the unrivaled youth, in a first-time, Space City Open match-up. Sky played flawlessly, stringing multiple racks, offering Gomez only two chances at the table. In the end, Woodward overwhelmed Gomez the first set, 9-2, to earn his first, Space City Open 9-ball title. It was down to Woodward, Gomez, and Alsarisi in the all-around. With this win, Sky sewed up the bonus, and became the first player in Space City Open history to win both 9-ball and 9-ball banks titles.

The one pocket division was single elimination, and kicked off Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m., with a 32-player field. Sky Woodward took charge, with victories over John Braud, 4-0, Jalal Alsarisi, 4-2, and Ernesto Bayaua, 4-3. Local talent, Marvin Diaz, eliminated J.C. Torres, 4-1, James Aranas, 4-3, and Jacob Pennison, 4-1. Rounding out the final four, Roberto Gomez bested John Gabriel, 4-2, Joey Gray, 4-3, and Shane McMinn, 4-3, while Josh Roberts defeated Aaron Springs, 4-0, Tommy Tokoph, 4-2, and Chip Compton, 4-1. In the next round, Woodward out-maneuvered Diaz, 4-2, and Gomez passed Roberts, 4-2. Woodward and Gomez remained, and at the close of the event, by the narrowest of margins, Roberto Gomez was crowned the newest, Space City Open, one pocket champion.

The single elimination, 32-player, 9-ball banks division, began Thursday at 7:00 p.m., and concluded on Friday evening. Chip Compton defeated Alex Calderone, 4-3, Shane Harvey, 4-2, and Justin Espinosa, 4-0, while James Aranas made his way to the final four with victories over Shane McMinn, 4-1, Jesse Davida, 4-1, and Sky Woodward, 4-1. Sylver Ochoa took out Tommy Tokoph, Florida’s David Uwate, 4-1, and Ernesto Bayaua, 4-3, while Jalal Alsarisi ended Roberto Gomez, 4-3, John Gabriel, 4-3, and former all-around champion, Josh Roberts, 4-3. Final four action witnessed Compton fall to Aranas, 4-2, and Alsarisi shut out Ochoa, 4-0. In the final match, Aranas overcame Alsarisi, 4-2, earning his first, Space City Open, 9-ball banks title.

Thirty-two women players converged on the Space City Open to compete for over $5,000 in the ladies 9-ball division. WPBA player, Kelly Isaac, took the lead with wins over junior player, April Gonzales, 7-2, Natalie Rocha, 7-2, and Janeen Lee, 7-3. Ellen Robinson beat Michelle Yim, 7-5, Sandra Melo, 7-3, and Courtney Peters, 7-5, while Kelly Jones of Mobile, Alabama, sent Teresa Garland west, 7-2, along with Calaia Jackson, 7-2, and Melissa Smith, 7-2. Local favorite Ming Ng began her trek, dominating Ruth Paine, 7-4, Christie Castro, 7-4, and Aryana Lynch, 7-1. Final four winners’ side action witnessed Robinson defeat Isaac, 7-3, and Ng overtake Jones, 7-2. In the hot seat match, Robinson played impeccably, breaking and running three racks to defeat Ng, 7-2. On the one-loss side, Lee eliminated Kim Pierce, 5-1, and Jones, 5-0, while Lynch took out Smith, 5-1, falling in turn to Isaac, 5-3. Lee crept past Isaac, 5-4, but faltered to Ng, 5-2. The finals rematch between Robinson and Ng was a long and fierce battle, with Ng securing the first set, 7-4. In overtime, tied with four games each, an unforced error by Robinson gave Ng the edge she needed to close out the set, 5-4, and earn her second, consecutive, Space City Open ladies 9-ball division title.

In the junior 9-ball division, twelve teens, seventeen and under, came together to compete for cash, and a coveted Space City Open plaque. John Benavides charged, with wins over Gabriel Garcia, 7-0, and Malachi Walker, 7-3, while April Gonzales subdued Cesar Garcia, 7-6, and brother, Jacob Gonzales, 7-4. Tyler Miller edged out Larissa Almendarez, 7-6, but fell to Lazaro “Little Laz” Martinez, III, 7-3. Kyle Yi bested Owen Chapple, 7-3, but was denied by Gabriel Martinez, 7-5. Benavides slid past A. Gonzales, 7-6, and Martinez, III out-moved G. Martinez, 7-2. With his meticulous play, defending champion, Martinez, III, shut out Benavides for the hot seat, 7-0. On the one-loss side, Yi was on a roll, eliminating Miller, 5-3, and A. Gonzales, 5-2. J. Gonzales beat Walker, 5-4, but lost to G. Martinez, 5-2. Down to the final four, G. Martinez terminated Yi, 5-3, and Benavides, 5-3, for a shot at his first, Space City Open title. The junior 9-ball final was a repeat of last year’s showdown, with “Little Laz”, and brother, Gabriel, battling it out for the championship. In the final, Lazaro proved too much for Gabriel, defeating him 7-0, defending his Space City Open, junior 9-ball title.

Space City Open would like to thank those who were instrumental in the production of this event; event staff, John Newsome, Kim Newsome, Ruth Paine, Mike Fabacher with Southern Streaming, Chris Lue with Chris Lue Photography, Big Tyme Billiards owners and staff; sponsors, Poison by Predator Cues, Cyclop Pool Balls, APA of North Harris County, Vapor Fiend, Outsville Billiards; and vendors, Jerry Olivier Cues and Cue Repair, Joe Salazar Connoisseur of Custom Cues, Champions Cues, Brutal Game Gear, and Action 24/7.

“We want to congratulate all the winners, and thank the players and patrons for making this event the most successful Space City Open to date. Space City Open IX is scheduled for December 3rd-6th, 2020, so mark your calendars!” – Kim Newsome, Space City Open Founder.

The Space City Open is the largest pool tournament in Texas, and is held annually, the first week in December. For more information, visit www.SpaceCityOpen.com.

Written By: Kim Newsome Photos By: Chris Lue Photography

Payouts:

All-Around Champion Sky Woodward $1,500

Open 9-Ball – 128 players (Total $35,740)

1st Sky Woodward $3,300/$6,200/$1,580 2nd Roberto Gomez $2,000/$4,000/$1,185 3rd Tommy Tokoph $1,300/$3,000/$790 4th Jalal Alsarisi $900/$2,100/$395 5th-6th Billy Dyke, Alex Calderone $500/$1,200 ea. 7th-8th Jesus Atencio, Derek Fontenot $300/$655 ea. 9th-12th James Davis, Jr., Kevin Guimond, Joey Gray, Josh Roberts $170/$400 ea. 13th-16th Ernesto Bayaua, Manny Chau, John Gabriel, Marc Garza $110 ea. 17th-24th Michael Alonzo, Josh Hillard, Joey Torres, Marvin Diaz, Troy Woodard, Jerry Alvarez, Aaron Springs, Tony Top $70 ea. 25th-32nd Jacob Pennison, J.C. Torres, Charlie Bryant, Cesar Garcia, Johnny Griffin, James Aranas, Jon Demet, Will Felder $50 ea.

One Pocket – 32 players (Total $7,060)

1st Roberto Gomez $1,300/$1,800 2nd Sky Woodward $900/$1,000 3rd-4th Josh Roberts, Marvin Diaz $440/$350 ea. 5th-8th Ernesto Bayaua, Jacob Pennison, Chip Compton, Shane McMinn $120 ea.

9-Ball Banks – 32 players (Total $7,160)

1st James Aranas $1,300/$1,800 2nd Jalal Alsarisi $900/$1,000 3rd-4th Chip Compton, Sylver Ochoa $440/$400 5th-8th Ernesto Bayaua, Sky Woodward, Josh Roberts, Justin Espinosa $120 ea.

Ladies 9-Ball – 32 players (Total $5,010)

1st Ming Ng $570/$1,360 2nd Ellen Robinson $400/$950 3rd Janeen Lee $250/$660 4th Kelly Isaac $160/$400 5th-6th Kelly Jones, Aryana Lynch $80/$200 ea. 7th-8th Kim Pierce, Melissa Smith $40 ea.

Junior 9-Ball – 12 players (Total $300)

1st Lazaro Martinez, III $150 2nd Gabriel Martinez $100 3rd John Benavides $50