Spain have been crowned European champions for the second time as Fernando Torres's first-half goal in Vienna proved enough to defeat Germany in the final of UEFA EURO 2008. History an inspiration Spain won their only previous piece of silverware in this competition in 1964 and had not been beyond the quarter-finals of any competition in 24 years, yet Luis Aragonés's men have chosen to use that history as an inspiration rather than a burden. After a strong start from Germany, seeking a fourth title themselves, Spain were the more dangerous side throughout an entertaining final at the Ernst-Happel-Stadion although it took just one goal in the 33rd minute, courtesy of Torres's pace, perseverance and an unerring finish to end their long wait. Ballack boost Germany received a significant boost before kick-off with captain Michael Ballack included despite a much-publicised calf problem and, perhaps buoyed by that news, Joachim Löw's team settled quickly. Much had been made of the contrast in styles between the two sides yet in the opening exchanges it was Germany whose passing looked crisper, Miroslav Klose and Thomas Hitzlsperger failing to make the most of glimpses of goal while Spain, shorn of four-goal leading striker David Villa due to a thigh injury, struggled to find their feet in a new 4-5-1 formation in which Cesc Fàbregas was rewarded for a fine semi-final display with a starting place. Instinctive stop As an indicator of the pattern of the match, however, Germany's bright start proved misleading. Spain soon worked their way into the contest, with Germany goalkeeper Jens Lehmann becoming, at 38, the oldest player to appear in a UEFA European Championship final forced into action for the first time in the 14th minute. Although his instinctive save came when his own defender, Christoph Metzelder, inadvertently deflected Andrés Iniesta's cross towards his own goal, Xavi Hernández's fine through-pass had unpicked the Germany defence and showed the Spanish were finding their feet. Torres on target Right-back Sergio Ramos was then allowed to cut inside and deliver a deep cross, Torres peeling away from Per Mertesacker to create space for the header only for the right-hand post to come to Lehmann's rescue. The warning signs were there for Germany, yet they failed to heed them and duly fell behind three minutes past the half-hour. Again Xavi was the architect, playing a pass in behind the Germany defence towards Torres, who outmuscled a hesitant Philipp Lahm and clipped the ball over the diving Jens Lehmann and just inside the far post. David Silva then volleyed over Iniesta's cross when given time and space inside the area as Spain threatened to increase their lead. Spain openings Spain had more openings in the early stages of the second half, Lehmann getting the merest of touches to Xavi's low shot before Ramos nearly guided in Silva's drive from the resulting corner. Yet a warning of the threat Germany still posed arrived on the hour, substitute Marcell Jansen and Bastian Schweinsteiger c****ining for Ballack to shoot centimetres wide. Klose then deflected a Schweinsteiger effort past the post and in response to Germanys renewed menace Spain coach Luis Aragonés promptly introduced Xabi Alonso and Santi Cazorla in place of Fàbregas and Silva. The switches reinvigorated Spain instantly, Lehmann making sharp stops from Ramos and Iniesta while Torsten Frings blocked another Iniesta effort on the line. Wild celebrations As the final moved into the last 20 minutes, Spain had had seven shots on goal to Germany's one, yet with Germany having turned virtually one in two of their efforts on target into goals ahead of the final, that was scant consolation to Aragonés and his side. In the event Spain continued to carve out chances as the match reached its conclusion, Marcos Senna narrowly failing to apply the finishing touch to an unselfish header from substitute Daniel Güiza but the celebrations would not be delayed much longer.

Spain coach Luis Aragones has hinted that Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas will start during his side's Euro 2008 final against Germany on Sunday night in Vienna.

In comments broadcast on private television Cuatro, he said his starting line-up for the match would be the same as the squad that beat Russia 3-0 in the semi-finals on Thursday when Fabregas replaced an injured David Villa.

Asked if Spain were the favourites against Germany, Aragones said: 'I think so, Spain is better than Germany.'

It will be Fabregas' first start of the tournament. Aragones has up until now used 21-year-old as a second-half subsititute.

Fabregas scored the winning penalty in Spain's quarter-final 4-2 shootout victory over world champions Italy and he set up two of Spain's goals in its win over Russia.

Spain last lifted the European Cup in 1964 with final victory over the former USSR in what was their only triumph at a major tournament to date. The country last reached the Euro final in 1984 when it lost to France.

The German football federation said Ballack hurt his right calf Friday and did not train that day either, adding that he was receiving treatment at the team hotel.

"We have to see how it develops overnight," Germany coach Joachim Loew said. "They are working around the clock on him."

Loew said he hadn't written Ballack off yet.

"When I saw him this afternoon he was very optimistic despite everything. He was not too down because the doctors say there is still a chance he could play," Loew said. "But of course, it's a disappointment for any player."

Ballack, who has been a key factor in Germany reaching the final, missed out on the 2002 World Cup final because of suspension. The 31-year-old Chelsea midfielder also missed the opening game of the 2006 World Cup because of a similar injury on the same calf.

"It was unthinkable that he would have been able to train today," Loew said.

Ballack, who can both orchestrate and finish off his team's attacks, has scored two goals in five matches at Euro 2008. He hit a fierce free kick against Austria in a first-round match and headed what turned out to be the winning goal in the 3-2 quarterfinal win over Portugal.

Germany flew to the Austrian capital earlier Saturday from its base in southern Switzerland. The team's training session there on Friday was not open to the media and the German federation did not release any information on Ballack's injury until he did not show up for the one practice session before the final match. Saturday's session was open to the media for the first 15 minutes.

"We don't know how he got injured," Loew said. "Sometimes after a game you don't feel it for a day or two. It was inflamed yesterday but no one knows how he got it."

Spain central defender Carles Puyol said he hopes Ballack will take the field at Ernst Happel Stadium.

"He's a very important player," Puyol said. "I don't know if he can play or not. As a footballer, I'd like to see everyone on the field, because its a unique opportunity that you don't know if it will be repeated. It would be too bad if he couldn't be there because of an injury."

Coach Luis Aragones said Ballack's injury wouldn't help Spain because the Germans would find another highly motivated player to replace him.

"Ballack is a great player without doubt," Aragones said. "But I always say it's worse. Whoever comes on for him will run even more."

Ballack's absence would be a severe blow to Germany's hopes of lifting a record fourth European title. Ballack was also looking for his first major title - and he would get if his teammates beat Spain even without him. Spain is also missing a key player, forward David Villa.

Only hours before it acknowledged Ballack's injury, the federation Web site carried an interview with Franz Beckenbauer, Germany's legend and a member of UEFA's executive, who called Ballack the key figure for a German victory over Spain.

"I have a good feeling for Ballack. It's a great chance for him to win his first major title," Beckenbauer said. "That's what he's running for, that's what he's fighting for. He's the absolute leader and he conducts the team on the field. Michael Ballack is the key to victory in the game against Spain."

Ballack's midfield partner, Thomas Hitzlsperger, agreed that their team would be poorer without him.

"He's proven over the years how important he is for the team," Hitzlsperger said. "He's scored so many important goals. He has a big presence on the field, he's a leader, he is someone the younger players look up to."

Loew has revealed little about his possible starting lineup. He had been expected to start with the same lineup that beat Portugal and then Turkey 3-2 in the semifinals, except for midfielder Torsten Frings returning in place of Simon Rolfes. But if Ballack is unable to play, Loew may reshuffle his team in more ways.

"We have to seriously consider what will happen if Ballack will not be able to play," Loew said, adding that he may have to use Tim Borowski or Bastian Schweinsteiger in a different role against Spain.

Loew was still optimistic despite the doubts about Ballack.

"I expect a win. We are going into the game with self-confidence. But Spain has been the most consistent team here, they have had almost no fluctuations in their level," Loew said. "They may be somewhat of a favorite but we are confident and we are going in with a very positive approach

>>>>

There had been strong speculation linking the 36-year-old FC Barcelona defender to the Paris club.

But at a press conference Friday, Thuram said medical tests found that he has an enlarged heart that would prevent him from signing for PSG at the moment.

Thuram's brother died of cardiac problems.

Tests will now be conducted in July to see if Thuram can continue to play football.

Thuram is France's record holder with 142 appearances but he appeared sluggish at the European Championship. He retired from international soccer after France's elimination from Euro 2008.

His last game for Les Bleus ended in a 4-1 defeat to the Netherlands on June 13, and he sat out the 2-0 loss to Italy four days later.

Thuram rarely featured for Barcelona last season, starting only 17 league games. He previously played in Italy's Serie A for Juventus, Parma and started his career at Monaco. He joined Barcelona after a standout performance at the 2006 World Cup.

WHO WILL COME BIG OR GO HOME SPAIN OR GERMANY

[youtube=http://youtube.com/watch?v=iw1vb2xyEU0]

Xavi Hernandez, Dani Guiza and David Silva scored a goal each to give the Spaniards a shot at their second European title when they play Germany on Sunday at Ernst Happel Stadium.

Spain, which won the 1964 European tournament, had ended its run of five quarterfinal defeats by beating Italy in a penalty shootout Sunday, but it confirmed its title aspirations with its penetrative passing on a slick surface in the pouring rain against Russia.

Spain could face Germany without striker David Villa, who was injured while taking a free kick in the first half. Villa, the tournament's leading scorer with four goals, limped off the field and was replaced by Cesc Fabregas in the 34th minute.

Xavi's goal in the 50th minute had an element of luck. He slid a ball through for Andres Iniesta, who eluded one defender before unleashing a shot from just inside the box, and Xavi followed up to side-foot the ball past goalkeeper Igor Akinfeyev.

Two Spanish substitutes c****ined to make it 2-0 in the 73rd. Fabregas flicked a ball over the top and Guiza finished with the outside of his right foot high into the net.

Fabregas then slid a pass through for an unmarked Silva inside the box in the 82nd and he scored.

Spain, which beat the Soviet Union 2-1 in the 1964 final in Madrid, had never lost to Russia in four previous matches - including a 4-1 win two weeks ago in the first round - and it didn't look like blemishing that record from the start at Ernst Happel Stadium.

THE MEN'S and women's sprint races are expected to steal the spotlight at next weekend's National Senior Championships, Jamaica's 'Olympic Trials', at the National Stadium.

Action over the three days is expected to reach fever pitch in the men's and women's 100 metres and 200m. Usain Bolt leads the world in both the men's 100m and 200m while Veronica Campbell-Brown is the world's fastest woman for 2008.

On May 31 in New York, Bolt, better known as a 200m runner, lit up the track to set a world record of 9.72 over 100m. Then last week, the 200m silver medal winner at the World Championships in Osaka, Japan, flashed to a world-leading 19.83 in the half-lap event. He is the only man to go under 20 seconds this year. Former world-record holder Asafa Powell will run in Trinidad and Tobago today and that race should give some hint of his current form. Powell has a 2008 best of 10.04.

On the women's side, most eyes will be on Campbell-Brown. The 200m winner in Athens four years ago leads the world in the 100m with 10.88, set only last weekend in Clermont, Florida. Simone Facey is next on 10.95, set at altitude in Boulder, Colorado, Kerron Stewart is next on 10.96 followed by Sherone Simpson on 10.99.

Campbell-Brown is number two in the 200m with a best of 22.38, just three-hundredths of a second behind Stewart. Simpson, 22.43, is not far behind.

The men's and women's 400m will also be competitive. In the women's one-lap event, the local-based MVP Track Club's pair, Kaliese Spencer and Shericka Williams, will be seeking to dethrone defending champion and World Championships bronze medallist Novlene Williams-Mills.

Among the men, the defending 400m champion, Sanjay Ayre, also faces strong competition from Ricardo Chambers, DeWayne Barrett and Leford Green.

The men's and women's 400m hurdles should also be close. Danny McFarlane, who won silver in Athens, is already the fastest Jamaican this year, and he will look to beat back challenges from rising stars Adrian Findlay, Markino Buckley and Isa Phillips.

In the women's 400m hurdles, Jamaica's number one, Melaine Walker, will also have her hands full against Nickeisha Wilson, who was outstanding at both the Pan American Games and World Championships last year.

Last, but not least, is the women's 100m hurdles where four veterans - Delloreen Ennis-London, Brigitte Foster-Hylton, Vonette Dixon and Lacena Golding Clarke, will be fighting for three individual spots. Wilson is also entered for this event.

spain

Former FIFA President Joao Havelange has made some quite sensational, and potentially damaging, allegations by claiming that the 1966 and 1974 World Cups were fixed so that England and Germany would win respectively.

The 1966 World Cup held in England has been the centre of a number of conspiracy theories over the years. These include Englands quarter final victory over Argentina when the hosts won 1-0 after the South Americans had seen their captain Antonio Rattin controversially handed a straight red card for arguing with the referee.

It has been claimed that there was a plot for England to win the World Cup, and the referee from this game was German, while the official in Germanys quarter final win over Uruguay was English. The controversy continued in the final with Geoff Hursts famous was it over the line? goal.

Joao Havelange, who was FIFA President from 1974 until 1998 is certain to have further fuelled these conspiracy theories by openly stating that the 1966 and 74 World Cups were fixed.

"In the three matches that the Brazilian national team played in 1966, of the three referees and six linesmen, seven were British and two were Germans," Havelange told Folha de Sao Paulo.

"Brazil went out, Pele exited through injury [following some rough defensive play], and England and Germany entered into the final, just as the Englishman Sir Stanley Rous, who was the President of FIFA at the time, had wanted.

"In Germany in 1974 the same thing happened. During the Brazil-Holland match, the referee was German, we lost 2-0 and Germany won the title," said Havelange.

"We were the best in the world, and had the same team that had won the World Cup in 1962 in Chile and 1970 in Mexico, but it was planned for the host countries to win.

World Cup hosts have been at the centre of many conspiracy claims over the year. In 1978 Argentina needed to beat Copa America holders Peru by four clear goals to reach the final ahead of Brazil. They won 6-0 but their were dark rumours that Peru, who had an Argentine-born goalkeeper, had thrown the game. Meanwhile in 2002, minnows South Korea were at the centre of similar claims as they finished fourth after seeing a host of dubious decisions go their way in the victories over Italy and Spain.

Deejay Vybz Kartel a.k.a Addi the Teacha has denied that he and DAngel are involved in an intimate relationship, and stressed that they're more than friends, they "are family'.

What you see is what you get. DAngel and I have known each other for many years, is not just a friend ting, it is family. Crazy people have been talking since they saw us at a dance in Barbican on Sunday and later on at the Quad, but what you see is what you get, is a family ting, we are both artistes, we collaborate on projects and that is it, he told one876entertainment.com

Vybz Kartel and DAngel scored a number one c****ination hit, Babyfather, several months ago in the height of the controversy when Kartel left the Alliance and was involved in a war of words with Bounty Killer and his protégé, Mavado. He also attended the wedding festivities of Beenie and DAngel when he was still a full-fledged member of the Alliance.  He and D'Angel also collaborated on a single that appeared to poke fun at Beenie Man late last year but that song fizzled soon after its release.

Germany booked their place in the semi-finals of Euro 2008 by seeing off a below-par Portugal side in Basel.

Bastian Schweinsteiger sidefooted in the first and his free-kick created the second for the head of Miroslav Klose.

Nuno Gomes finished from close range to give Portugal hope, but they failed to defend another Schweinsteiger free-kick and Michael Ballack headed their third.

Portugal substitute Helder Postiga pulled one back in the dying stages but

there was to be no grandstand finish.

Portugal had looked so impressive in qualifying for the knockout stages but Luiz Felipe Scolari's reign ended in disappointing fashion.

Scolari, who takes over as Chelsea boss next month, had suggested their lack of height might be exposed by a physically superior German side.

But it was a failure to defend set-pieces that proved their downfall.

In contrast, Germany gave an accomplished display despite suspended coach Joachim Low having to watch the game from the stands.

They will now face the winners of the Croatia-Turkey quarter-final in the last four and will be strong favourites to progress to the final on this showing.

The selection of Schweinsteiger from the start gave them a spark that was missing from their group games.

He gave them the lead when he got ahead of Paulo Ferreira to burst into the box and steer home a cross from Lukas Podolski, after he had c****ined well with Ballack down the left channel.

Germany made it two goals in four minutes when Schweinsteiger's curling free-kick was perfect for Klose to head past Ricardo.

It was Cristiano Ronaldo who looked to be the guilty party in allowing Klose a free run at goal.

The Manchester United winger was unable to influence the game and the 2004 finalists' hopes were dealt a further blow when Joao Moutinho was forced off after half an hour.

606: DEBATE   Never ever write off Germany     avinthesky

It was from Ronaldo's shot that led to Gomes' strike, but it owed more to Deco's bursting run from the edge of his own box.

The Barcelona star released Simao and he found Ronaldo, who was denied by Jens Lehmann only for Gomes to show quickness of mind and feet to turn and fire past Christoph Metzelder's attempted clearance.

It was developing into a wonderfully open game, with both sides continuing the theme of the tournament by committing men forward and playing positive football.

Ballack and then Ronaldo went close just before the break and Pepe should have scored with a close-range header from a corner shortly after the interval.

The match looked headed for an intriguing final half hour, only for Portugal's defence to again go to sleep as Schweinsteiger swung in another pinpoint free-kick.

This time it was Ferreira who lost his man, although Ballack did appear to push his Chelsea team-mate before heading past a stranded Ricardo.

Portugal's momentum was stopped in its tracks and they found themselves restricted to long-range shots as Germany looked to close the game out.

Podolski was a yard away from adding to his three goals at the tournament with a hammer of a left-foot shot.

The game got the thrilling climax that it deserved when Nani crossed for fellow substitute Postiga to head in three minutes from the end.

But there was to be no fairytale ending to Scolari's impressive coaching career with the Portuguese.

Ron: I WILL come back
Cristiano Ronaldo has phoned Manchester United to say 'Ill be back'. SunSport can reveal that the Portuguese star dramatically made contact with Old Trafford for the first time in a month. Ronaldo, 23, has given United fans the news they most wanted by informing the club he would be going straight on holiday and would return, as instructed, for pre-season training. His call makes it clear Ronaldo does not envisage any move to Real Madrid in the coming weeks. The player was told he must be back at United three weeks from the day Portugals interest in Euro 2008 ended July 10  and he has said he will be there.
Neil Custis, The Sun

According to several newspapers, Reds chief executive David Gill will make it clear to Real president Ramon Calderon that Ronaldo is not for sale when the two clubs come face to face at the European Club Association meeting in Nyon, Switzerland on July 7. The Mirror claimed on Wednesday that Real plan to unveil £70million-rated Ronaldo on that date.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid star Wesley Sneijder has ruled himself out of a move to Old Trafford. Reports had suggested the Dutch midfielder could be used as bait in Real's bid to secure Ronaldo, and that Robinho could also be offered as part exchange for the Portugal international. But Sneijder has insisted "it's not happening end of story".

Semih Senturk kept Turkey in the game with an 86th-minute equalizer, beating Jens Lehmann at the near post to keep Turkey's' challenge alive. Six minutes earlier, Miroslav Klose seemed to have closed out the game for Turkey.

Then, Lahm slotted home the decider from close range in the 89th minute.

The 25-year-old currently plays for Hamburg in the German Bundesliga and has been touted as a possible replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo should the prize winger leave United for Real Madrid.

The former Ajax player however says he wants to remain focused on Euro 2008 before confirming rumours he is on his way to England.

"Everybody knows I am willing to consider a move but my main focus is purely on the national team," he said.

"I'm not interested in anything else that can put me off."

Holland take on Russia in the quarter-final of Euro 2008 on Saturday.

Croatia

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   vs

"I will talk with Manchester and we will try to reach a deal," the Portugal winger said. "The possibilities to go to Madrid are great, but it doesn't depend on me."

After Portugal's 3-2 loss to Germany in the quarterfinals of the European Championship, Ronaldo said he will "need surgery" for "a small problem on his (right) foot."

BOSTON (AP) -- On a new parquet floor below aging championship banners, the Boston Celtics won their 17th NBA title and a first one -- at last -- for Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen -- their Big Three for a new generation.

After 22 long years, the NBA has gone green.

Lifted by ear-splitting chants of "Beat L.A." from their adoring crowd, which included Boston legends Bill Russell John Havlicek and JoJo White, the Celtics concluded a shocking rebound of a season with a stunning 131-92 blowout over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 6 on Tuesday night.

With the outcome assured, Boston fans sang into the night as if they were in a pub on nearby Canal Street. They serenaded the newest champs in this city of champs, and taunted Kobe Bryant and his Lakers, who drowned in a green-and-white wave for 48 minutes.

Garnett scored 26 points with 14 rebounds, Allen scored 26 and Pierce, the Finals MVP, added 17 as the Celtics, a 24-win team a year ago, wrapped up their first crown since 1986.

This was total domination. The Celtics obliterated the Lakers, who were trying to become the first team to overcome a 3-1 deficit in the Finals.

No way. No how. No chance.

Boston's 39-point win surpassed the NBA record for the biggest margin of victory in a championship clincher; the Celtics beat the Lakers 129-96 in Game 5 of the 1965 NBA Finals.

Pierce doused Celtics coach Doc Rivers with red Gatorade. Owner Wyc Grousbeck, who named his group Banner 17 to leave no doubt about his goal, put an unlit cigar in his mouth -- a tribute to Red Auerbach, the patriarch who had a hand in the franchise's first 16 titles.

Garnett dropped to the parquet and kissed the leprechaun at center court, then found Hall of Famer Bill Russell for a long embrace.

"I got my own. I got my own," Garnett said. "I hope we made you proud."

"You sure did," Russell said.






NBA Scores
Tuesday, June 17th
LA Lakers 92 Final
Boston 131

Rustu Recber saved a penalty shot from Mladen Petric yesterday to send Turkey into the European Championship semi-finals with a 3-1 shoot-out win over Croatia after a 1-1 draw after extra time.

Arda Turan, Semih Senturk and Hamit Altintop scored for Turkey in the shoot-out. Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic also missed their shots for Croatia, while Darijo Srna scored the team's only penalty.

After a scoreless 90 minutes of regulation, Ivan Klasnic gave Croatia the lead with a header in 119th minute. The first player to ever take part at the European Championship after a kidney transplant headed in Modric's cross from close range only 22 minutes after coming on as a substitute.

Long clearance

But before the Croatian fans had stopped celebrating with time almost up, Recber sent a long clearance into Croatia's box and the ball dropped to Semih, whose left-footed shot deflected off defender Robert Kovac and went into the top corner of the net with goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa rooted to the ground.

"It seemed like the match was over, then to concede a goal, then go on to penalties, gave a psychological advantage to the Turks," Croatia coach Slaven Bilic said.

"This certainly isn't going to be easy to forget. Not only will we not forget this, this will haunt me for the rest of my life.

"We will probably weep for a few days, but such is life. We will be back."

Turkey will face Germany in the semi-finals on Wednesday in Basel, Switzerland. Both Germany and Turkey finished second in their groups in the first round.

Words of encouragement

Turkey rallied to win its last two matches, beating Switzerland 2-1 and then getting two goals in the final three minutes to beat the Czech Republic and advance to the quarter-finals.

"To lose a lead in such a short space of time would be a blow to any team. I knew they would be feeling it psychologically," Turkey coach Fatih Terim said. "I tell my players never to give up. I tell them that they shouldn't be afraid of losing or conceding goals. This is football. You should never give up until the referee blows the final whistle."

In a low quality match marked by defensive caution at Ernst Happel Stadium, a depleted Turkish team restricted Croatia to few opportunities by pressing in midfield and not allowing its opponent time on the ball.

The violence erupted in the main fan zone, the square adjacent to City Hall. No major injuries were reported, but first-aid personnel had to treat some fans for *lo**y noses and other superficial injuries.

Turkey advanced to the semifinals against Germany by winning the penalty shootout after the match ended at 1-1 after 120 minutes.

Police said the fighting broke out in the few minutes between Croatia's goal in the second last minute of extra time and the Turkish equalizer just a minute later.

The Croatian fans were pulled to a fenced-off area by security personnel and treated on the spot, the Austria Press Agency reported.

Other skirmishes in front of the nearby Burgtheater - the city's major theater - ended with pushing and shoving and no injuries, police spokesman Walter Hladik said.

In the Ottakring district, police cordoned off several streets after a hail of bottles were thrown at officers in riot gear gathered to separate hundreds of Croat and Turkish fans. Ottakring has a large Turkish population.

Police said arrests were made, but couldn't immediately provide any numbers.

Germany beat Turkey 3-2 in the Euro 2008 Simi-Finals

FORMER WORLD-record holder Asafa Powell warmed up for this weekend's mouth-watering 100m clash with Usain Bolt, the world's fastest man, at the National Championships, with an impressive run in Trinidad and Tobago yesterday. Powell, who has recovered from a strained pectoral muscle, raced to a 9.96 seconds victory in his semi-final at the SAGICOR National Open Track and Field Championships held at the Hasley Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain. Hometown hero and T&T's fastest man this season at 9.93 seconds, Richard Thompson, was second in Powell's semi-final in 10.11 seconds. Powell, who was racing for the first time since opening up his season in Australia in February, decided not to run in last night's final. "That was the plan all along, for him to run one race," Powell's manager Paul Doyle, who is in Trinidad said. "We just wanted him to get one race in before the trials (Jamaica Championships June 27-29)," he said. Timid at the start Doyle said after the race that Powell "feft good about the result, but was a little timid at the start because he had not raced for a long time". Powell will now turn his attention to Saturday's 100m final against Bolt, who last month broke the former's world record mark of 9.74, with a stunning 9.72 seconds run. Though the two camps have played down the clash, the eyes of the world will be watching the clash between the two fastest men on this planet.

Coupet said he was impressed with Atletico after Lyon gave him permission to visit the Spanish capital.

"I saw a lot of ambition in Atletico. It's a big club, very popular and friendly. Madrid is a really nice city," Coupet was quoted as saying by sports daily Marca on Saturday.

The 35-year-old, who has a buyout clause attached to his contract of 3 million (US$4.7 million), said the clubs would need to agree on a fee before a transfer could be completed.

"There are details to be sorted out. It was a first contact, a courtesy visit," added Coupet, who has been an integral part of Lyon's seven consecutive league titles.

Coupet said last month he would play his final game with the team in the French cup final, in which Lyon beat Paris Saint-Germain to complete its first league and cup double.

Coupet played in all three of France's matches before it was eliminated from the European Championship after finishing last in Group C.

Atletico is seeking reinforcements for next season, when it enters the Champions League for the first time in 12 seasons.

Atletico, whose defense leaked 47 league goals last season, is set to sign Netherlands defender John Heitinga from Ajax and Czech Republic defender Tomas Ujfalusi from Fiorentina.

Arsenal vs. West Bromwich Albion
 
Aston Villa vs. Manchester City

Chelsea vs. Portsmouth

Everton vs. Blackburn Rovers

Manchester United vs. Newcastle United

Middlesbrough vs. Tottenham Hotspur

Sunderland vs. Liverpool

West Ham United vs. Wigan Athletic FC

Bolton Wanderers vs. Stoke City

Hull City vs. Fulham

BASEL, Switzerland (AP) - Russia scored two goals in extra time Saturday to send the team into the semifinals of the European Championship with a 3-1 upset win over the Netherlands. Dimitry Torbinski and Andrei Arshavin scored within five minutes of each other in the second half of extra time. Roman Pavlyuchenko also scored for Russia, while Ruud van Nistelrooy scored for the Dutch in the 86th.

DWAYNE DE Rosario and Ali Gerba each scored twice as Canada defeated St Vincent and the Grena-dines 4-1 and advanced 7-1 on aggregate in CONCACAF World Cup qualifying on Friday.

The victory put Canada into the third round of CONCACAF qualifiers, in a tough round-robin group against Honduras, Jamaica and likely Mexico, who hold a 2-0 advantage from the first leg of their second-round tie against Belize going into yesterday's home second leg. Only the top two from that four-team group, starting in August, will advance to the final stage of qualifying.

Houston's De Rosario, who should have had a hat-trick in the first half, opened the scoring in the 29th minute, slipping past defender Wesley Charles, cutting inside, beating Charles again and firing home before 11,502 spectators at Saputo Stadium.

Header

Gerba, who also scored twice in a 3-0 win in the first leg, was at the goalmouth to head in a De Rosario pass in the 38th.

Five minutes into the second half, De Rosario blasted through goalkeeper Winslow McDowall's hands and then he put in a smart cross from the right that Gerba, of German lower-division club Ingolstadt, headed past McDowall in the 63rd for 4-0.

St Vincent got a consolation goal in the 76th minute, as Malaysian-based striker Marlon James swept in on the right side and the captain chipped the ball over goalkeeper Pat Onstad in the 76th.

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Alonso has been strongly linked with a £16 million move to the Italian giants, as Liverpool pursue Gareth Barry to replace him.

Alonso said: "I have little to say about Juve because at the moment I am very focused on Euro 2008 and on Spain.

"We'll see what will happen with Juve. It's difficult to say.

"I've spent four fantastic years at Liverpool, but I have to admit that I have always been fascinated by Italian football.

"However, it's too soon to talk about the future. In short - we'll see."

Alonso added: "Juve are one of the biggest teams in Europe, perhaps the biggest in Italy. They have many fans, not only in Italy, but all over the world.

"They're a team who want to get back to winning the Scudetto and who also want to compete in the Champions League."

There has been much talk of a move to the Premier League for the Portuguese international, and he is tipped to follow Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari to Stamford Bridge.

"I know about the interest of Chelsea as well as other teams," said Deco after Germany sent Portugal crashing out of Euro 2008 on Wednesday night.

"But I still have to make a decision.

"I have to speak to Barcelona and soon there will be developments."

Despite being under contract with the Catalan giants until 2010, Deco has been informed by new coach Josep Guardiola that he no longer features in Barca's plans for the 2008-09 season, to the 30-year old's complete lack of surprise.

"I knew that," said the veteran midfielder.

"It's natural for (new coach) Josep Guardiola to say that as he is the Barca coach and he makes the decisions

Wenger has been on the lookout for potential Arsenal signings at Euro 2008 and has so far been tipped to make a move on Russian ace Andrei Arshavin.

But the Gunners boss says his pockets will not be deep enough to compete with Europe's top clubs in the transfer market and confessed that he will most likely focus on making sure that players like Emmanuel Adebayor stay in England.

Forced to watch Mathieu Flamini leave to AC Milan on free transfer, Wenger now faces battle to keep Adebayor - who is rumoured to be on the brink of finalising a big-money move to the San Siro - on as his star striker.

"I brought my chequebook (to Euro 2008) but, having looked at the prices, I've realised it isn't big enough," Wenger - who also hopes to hang on to Alexander Hleb - said in the English press.

"I've not been surprised by the quality on show. There is a fantastic young generation of players coming through.

"But I will use my chequebook first to keep the players I already have."

Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas saved penalties from Daniele De Rossi and Antonio Di Natale.

David Villa, Santi Cazorla, Marcos Senna also scored for Spain, but Dani Guiza missed. Fabio Grosso, Mauro Camoranesi scored penalties for Italy.

Spain will face Russia in the semifinals on Thursday.

After a mostly dull 90 minutes at Ernst Happel Stadium, David Silva hit a shot just wide for Spain in extra time and Di Natale had a header tipped over the bar by Casillas.

Italy made its last substitution in the 108th, bringing on Alessandro Del Piero, but the team's continued caution suggested this was more for the shootout than for his ability to conjure a winning goal.

Spain created more openings in the first 90 minutes, but Italy went close in the 61st minute when Camoranesi had a goalbound shot blocked by the legs of Casillas.

With key midfielders Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso suspended, the World Cup champions seemed mostly content to try and stifle a Spain team that had shown some of the best attacking football in the group stages.

Spain's best opportunity came in the 81st when goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon spilled a fierce long-range shot by Senna. The ball squirmed out of his hands and rolled back to hit the post before landing softly back in his arms.

The first half had been so poor that both sets of fans jeered the teams off the field for the interval, with the most noise the heavily outnumbered Italians made coming when Antonio Cassano took a 40th-minute corner right in front of them.

Spain at least attempted some enterprising football and had 10 shots to Italy's two, but the Italians' defense was so secure that only a blocked effort by Silva came from inside the area.

The move that led to that chance was arguably the brightest spot in a stultifying first half. David Villa set up Silva with a back-heeled return pass so audacious that even retired France great Zinedine Zidane, who was watching from the stands, nodded in approval.

Spain tried to quicken things up, refusing to dither over goal kicks and throws, but the game continued to succumb to Italy's leaden pace.

Silva twice had 25-meter (yard) shots saved by Buffon low to his left and the Spanish, who had flourished in the first round with eight goals in three first-round matches, seemed to get frustrated.

Silva was lucky not to get a yellow card in the 42nd when he threw himself over the outstretched leg of Grosso on the edge of the area. Silva writhed about on the gra** until play was halted, at which point referee Herbert Fandel marched half the length of the field to order him to his feet.

The pace improved at the start of the second half even if the quality didn't.

Fernando Torres and Villa worked the ball to Andres Iniesta on the left of Italy's area only for the midfielder to mis-control and let it hit his hand.

And Silva got a chance in the 49th when a clearance under pressure by Christian Panucci hit De Rossi and rebounded to Silva in the area. Silva twisted to get his shot away, but Giorgio Chiellini blocked with a sliding challenge.

But at least there seemed to be more attacking intent from Italy, which almost took the lead in the 61st after Luca Toni hooked the ball away from Casillas just as he was about to grab it. Camoranesi, who been on the field just three minutes, shot from in front of goal only for the recovering Casillas to block with his legs.

Villa was unlucky to be booked when the referee misinterpreted his slip in the area as a dive, but the fortune went Spain's way later on when Grosso was preparing to meet a cross into the area with a shot on goal, only for Toni to redirect the flight of the ball away from him with an attempted overhead kick.

Chiellini, who has only been starting in Italy's defense because he injured captain Fabio Canavarro in training before the tournament, had a stellar match throughout and blocked an effort by Guiza at the start of extra time.

Silva put the rebound just wide before, at the other end, Di Natale went close with his fierce header from a right-wing cross. Buffon then blocked a low shot by Villa, the last meaningful effort of the match.

---

Lineups:

Italy: Gianluigi Buffon, Gianluca Zambrotta, Christian Panucci, Fabio Grosso, Giorgio Chiellini, Simone Perrotta (Mauro Camoranesi, 58), Daniele De Rossi, Alberto Aquilani, Massimo Ambrosini, Luca Toni, Antonio Cassano (Antonio Di Natale, 75).

Spain: Iker Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Carles Puyol, Carlos Marchena, Joan Capdevila, Xavi Hernandez (Cesc Fabregas, 60), David Silva, Marcos Senna, Andres Iniesta (Santi Cazorla, 59), David Villa, Fernando Torres (Daniel Guiza, 85).

 

ppl eva a mek comparrison wid two baller but mi a include all a di top footballer them


-- Edited by SLICE BREAD at 21:18, 2008-05-31

The newly-appointed Chelsea manager, who officially takes over at Stamford Bridge following the conclusion of Euro 2008, knows the talented winger well from their time together in the Portuguese national team, where Scolari will step down as manager on July 1.

Ronaldo led the Red Devils' charge to a Premier League and Champions League double last season, peaking the interest of Madrid, who now look to land the superstar for a record transfer fee.

However, United insist their player is not for sale and will not be listening to any offers, but Scolari believes that once Ronaldo has made up his mind, he will not be persuaded to change it.

He said: "I know Cristiano well and I know the type of person he is so I have no doubts about how he will handle himself in the next few weeks.

"People must understand that Cristiano becomes stronger with all the difficulties and the stories about him. I have never known anyone so mentally strong.

"He is so strong mentally and he is in control of his own destiny - and because of that Manchester United can do nothing to hurt him.

"It is his dream to play for Real Madrid and I am sure Cristiano will fulfil his dream whatever the difficulties."

ADRID, Spain (AP) - Real Madrid is waiting for Cristiano Ronaldo's announcement on his future before moving ahead with plans to try and sign the winger from Manchester United. The Portugal captain has said he will make no comment until after the European Championship, which ends June 29. Portugal will meet Germany in the quarterfinals on Thursday.

"We're waiting for Cristiano to make a statement. Whenever he says he wants to play for Real Madrid, there would be conversations between the two clubs," Madrid spokesman and general director Miguel Angel Arroyo told radio station Onda Madrid.

"We would be delighted to reach an agreement with Manchester if the possibility exists, that is, if they want to sell and the price were reasonable," Arroyo added.

Manchester United has been so annoyed by what it sees as Madrid's attempts to lure Ronaldo, who has four years remaining on his contract, that it lodged an official complaint with FIFA.

However, soccer's world governing body said Monday it will take no action against Madrid because no regulations had been broken. Although it warned the club of the potential legal consequences of inducing a player to breach his contract without just cause.

The 23-year-old Ronaldo, who scored 42 goals last season, has done little to quash speculation of a move to Madrid. Reports have suggested Ronaldo's agent, Jorge Mendes, has already reached a deal with the Spaniards on his behalf.

United manager Alex Ferguson has insisted Ronaldo will not be sold, saying his team's American owners, the Glazer family, would prefer to banish players like Ronaldo to the stands rather than sell them.

However, it remains to be seen whether United would reject what reportedly would be an offer of a world-record $124 million for the player who helped the team become European and Premier League champions. The current highest fee is the $65 million Madrid paid for Zinedine Zidane in 2001.

AUSTRALIA

S. Marsh c Marshall b Roach	29
+L. Ronchi c Taylor b Roach	36
S. Watson not out	17
D. Hussey c Perkins b Bravo	0
C. White not out	10
Extras: (lb2, w2, nb1)	5
TOTAL: (3 wkts, 11 overs)	97

Fall wickets: 1-57, 2-72, 3-72.

Did not bat:R. Ponting, M. Clarke, M. Hussey, J. Hopes, B. Lee, M. Johnson.

Bowling: Taylor 2-0-23-0 (w1), Benn 2-0-19-0 (w1), Edwards 2-0-12-0, Roach 3-0-29-2 (nb1), Bravo 2-0-12-1.

WEST INDIES

X. Marshall run out	36
W. Perkins run out	9
+D. Ramdin c Johnson b Watson	8
D. Bravo not out	28
A. Fletcher not out	7
Extras: (b6, lb1, w7)	14
TOTAL: (3 wkts, 9.1 overs)	102

Fall of wickets: 1-53, 2-59, 3-64.

Did not bat: K. Pollard, D. Sammy, J. Taylor, S. Benn, K. Roach, F. Edwards.

Bowling: Lee 2-0-26-0 (w1), Johnson 2-0-30-0 (w1), Watson 2.1-0-17-1, Hopes 2-0-14-0, White 1-0-8-0.

Result: West Indies won by seven wickets. Toss: West Indies

June 20, 2008

CRISTIANO RONALDO last night uttered the words Manchester United have been dreading: I hope to join Real Madrid in the next few days.

Just minutes after Ronaldo and his Portugal team-mates crashed out of Euro 2008, the winger finally broke his silence over his Old Trafford future and left no doubt where his heart lies.

Following the last-eight defeat to Germany, he said: In the next few days there could be news.

The possibilities of me going to Madrid are great but it does not depend on me.

"I know there is a concrete offer on the table, now lets see if we can reach a deal in the next days.

"Everyone knows what I want. I have many desires and in the next days they will become clear.

Ronaldo and his agent Jorge Mendes know Real will table a world-record £80million bid and put enormous pressure on United to accept.

And the next step could be for Ronaldo to go on strike if United refuse to do a deal as revealed in SunSport.

The former Sporting Lisbon winger fanned the flames by describing a move to Real as "a dream, a step forward".

He added: "For me it's a very good opportunity. As Scolari says, this only happens once."

And asked when he decided he wanted to quit Old Trafford, Ronaldo revealed: "Some time ago, before this competition.

"I didn't want to say anything because we were in competition and these are important decisions."

Ronaldo claimed that leaving United would be difficult but added: "I think it could be good for both of us".

United will be enraged by his comments, having already made it clear they have no intention of selling their prize asset.

Their relationship with Madrid has already hit rock bottom.

They lodged a formal complaint to FIFA over the way Real have openly tried to lure Ronaldo to the Spanish capital.

Uniteds position has been the same from the start Ronaldo, 23, signed a five-year contract with them last year and he will remain their player.

Boss Alex Ferguson has always insisted they have no intention of selling him.

And he revealed the clubs owners, the Glazer family, would be willing to let him rot in the stands rather than move to the Bernabeu.

Ronaldo will now undergo an operation after being dumped out of Euro 2008.

He added: I have a small problem with my foot.

Ive been playing with it for three months. Im going to have the operation straightaway.

Just as Spain prepare to end a hoodoo of quarter-final exits at recent major tournaments by beating world champions Italy on Sunday off-field tensions have emerged between coach Luis Aragones and Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos.

Ramos on Friday reacted with clear displeasure after Aragones had suggested in a quiet chat with the 22-year-old that he needed to change certain aspects of his attitude.

As the squad prepared for a training session there were clear signs of tension in the air as Ramos gestured wildly in Aragones' direction to register his disapproval after hearing comments made by his coach.

The controversial Aragones, accused of racism in 2004 when he geed up another squad member, Cesc Fabregas by making a disparaging comment about then Arsenal teammate Thierry Henry, reportedly told Ramos he had to alter his off-field behaviour when they had a heart-to-heart on Thursday.

'We exchanged views,' said Aragones. 'There are a few things which I can pass on to him through my experience. You are a better footballer when you have more order in all respects. Sometimes, there is the odd thing which is not good, though not on the field,' Aragones told a news conference.

For his part, Ramos had earlier intimated to reporters that he was not always clear under Aragones when he was supposed to move forward out of the back four and when he should stay back.

Fellow defender Carlos Marchena tried to calm Ramos after Aragones' criticism but the Real star angrily pushed him aside and moments later Aragones said the time for chatting was over as they headed for the training field.

Striker Fernando Torres later played down any talk of dissent in the camp.

'We'e been talking about music,' he said as a way of changing the subject.

According to Spanish media on Friday afternoon, Aragones has been annoyed with Ramos for issues such as turning up for squad meals late and then not being on time for the team bus.

"I will talk with Manchester and we will try to reach a deal," the Portugal winger said. "The possibilities to go to Madrid are great, but it doesn't depend on me."

After Portugal's 3-2 loss to Germany in the quarterfinals of the European Championship, Ronaldo said he will "need surgery" for "a small problem on his (right) foot."

MANCHESTER CITY have wrecked AC Milans bid to sign Ronaldinho by offering him £30MILLION in wages.

The Italians admitted defeat in the chase for the Barcelona star after the £180,000-a-week proposal.

AC vice president Adriano Galliani said: We simply cannot compete with certain figures anymore.

"I cannot ignore the fact Italian football is now in fourth position in Europe behind England, Spain and Germany.

Manchester City have offered Ronaldinho £9.5m a year.

We can only compete with that if Barcelona give him away for free.

On top of the massive three-year wage deal for Ronaldinho, City owner Thaksin Shinawatra will also have to stump up £20m to buy the Brazilian playmaker from Barca.

But the former Thai prime minister hopes much of his outlay will be recouped in commercial deals.

In a year at the Eastlands helm, Shinawatra has spent £50m on players and sacked Sven Goran Eriksson despite him getting the club into Europe.

New boss Mark Hughes has been told there is a lot of cash to spend this summer.

Citys offer for Ronaldinho dwarfs the Premier Leagues current biggest pay deals.

England centre-backs Rio Ferdinand at Manchester United and Chelseas John Terry both pocket £130,000 a week.

THE transfer frenzy is back as clubs prepare to flash the cash.

It is expected to be another huge summer as teams look to boost their ranks ahead of next season.

And with Euro 2008 likely to propel new stars into the limelight, there will be a mad rush to sign up the continent's hottest talent.

You can keep right up to date with all the Premier League deals this summer right here from Postinor.

 

---

ARSENAL

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Mathieu Flamini (AC Milan, free), Jens Lehmann (Stuttgart, free)

ASTON VILLA

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Luke Moore (West Brom, £3m), Patrick Berger (Sparta Prague, free), Olof Mellberg (Juventus, free)

BLACKBURN

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Peter Enckelman (released)

BOLTON

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Andranik Teymourian (Fulham, free), Ivan Campo (released), Stelios (released)

CHELSEA

IN: Jose Bosingwa (Porto, £16.5m)

OUT: None (as yet)

EVERTON

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Lee Carsley (Birmingham, free), Stefan Wessels (released)

FULHAM

IN: David Stockdale (Darlington, £600,000), Mark Schwarzer (Middlesbrough, free), Zoltan Gera (West Brom, free), Andranik Teymourian (Bolton, free)

OUT: Brian McBride (released), Jari Litmanen (released), Carlos Bocanegra (released), Philippe Christanval (released), Simon Elliott (released), Ian Pearce (released), Bjorn Runstrom (released), Tony Warner (released), Kasey Keller (released)

HULL

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Jay-Jay Okocha (released), David Livermore (released)

LIVERPOOL

IN: Philipp Degen (Borussia Dortmund, free)

OUT: Harry Kewell (released)

MANCHESTER CITY

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: None (as yet)

MANCHESTER UNITED

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Gerard Pique (Barcelona, £5m), Tom Heaton (Cardiff, loan)

MIDDLESBROUGH

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Mark Schwarzer (Fulham, free), Fabio Rochemback (Sporting Lisbon, free), Gaizka Mendieta (released), Dong Gook Lee (released)

NEWCASTLE

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: David Rozehnal (Lazio, £2.9m), Peter Ramage (QPR, free), Stephen Carr (released)

PORTSMOUTH

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: None (as yet)

STOKE

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Marlon Broomes (Blackpool, free), Dominic Matteo (released), Russell Hoult (released)

SUNDERLAND

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Andy Cole (released), Ian Harte (released), Stephen Wright (released), Stan Varga (released)

TOTTENHAM

IN: Luka Modric (Dinamo Zagreb, £15.8m), Giovani dos Santos (Barcelona, £4.7m)

OUT: None (as yet)

WEST BROM

IN: Luke Moore (Aston Villa, £3m), Roman Bednar (Hearts, £2.5m), Do-heon Kim (Seongnam Ilhwa Shunma, £550,000), Michal Danek (Viktoria Plzen, loan)

OUT: Luke Steele (Barnsley, free), Zoltan Gera (Fulham, free)

WEST HAM

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Nolberto Solano (released)

WIGAN

IN: None (as yet)

OUT: Julius Aghahowa (Kayserispor, free), Salomon Olembe (Kayserispor, free), Andy Webster (Rangers, free), Josip Skoko (released),

ALEX FERGUSON will go all out to sign Dimitar Berbatov when the Manchester United boss returns from holiday.

Fergie is ready to go back to Tottenham with a £25million bid the same amount he offered in a doomed attempt to capture the Bulgarian striker last summer.

That cash is still available to Fergie, who has been on a break in France. United have also banked another £32m for winning the Champions League.

Around £20m has been earmarked for making Carlos Tevezs transfer permanent.

Spurs are ready to sell Berbatov, 27, after bringing in Croatias Luka Modric and Mexican Giovani Dos Santos.

And agent Emil Dantchev insists Berbatov must be playing in the Champions League.

Milan have also been tracking the former Bayer Leverkusen man but United would be his club of choice.

Eto'o insists he is happy to see out the remaining two years on his Barcelona contract, but he is expected to leave the Camp Nou this summer as new manager Pep Guardiola makes his mark on his inherited squad.

Tottenham are understood to have an interest in Eto'o as boss Juande Ramos prepares for the possible exit of star asset Dimitar Berbatov.

However, Cameroon striker Eto'o - who was on target for his country in their 2010 World Cup qualifying victory over Mauritius on Sunday - has ruled out the possibility of moving to White Hart Lane.

"Tottenham, and I hope the English fans will forgive me, are a club in mid-table and I need more," Eto'o told CRTV.

"I insist that I have a contract with Barcelona until 2010 and I feel great at the club."

However, Eto'o has hinted that he would be keen to join Jose Mourinho's revolution at Inter Milan.

Mourinho is ready to ring the changes at the Giuseppe Meazza this summer and, having attempted to sign Eto'o while in charge at Chelsea, the Portuguese could renew his interest.

"I cannot exclude the option of Inter, but I want to repeat that I still feel I am a Barcelona and that I feel under no pressure," Eto'o concluded.

In the battle between Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo and Chelsea's Michael Ballack, the German came out on top. He delivered the deciding blow when heading in the third goal in the 61st minute, shoving away Paulo Ferreira and heading past an out-of-position Ricardo.

It was the first time Germany moved into the final four since it won in 1996, and it was also the first time Portugal failed to make the semifinals in the last three international tournaments.

Miroslav Klose also scored for Germany, while Nuno Gomes and Helder Postiga had goals for Portugal.

The Germans started the upset with a move in the best Portuguese tradition. Podolski set up a couple of short passing c****inations and sped off much like Ronaldo would do. In the center, Schweinsteiger beat Ferreira for pace, and given the perfect low cross slotted it past Ricardo for the opener in the 22nd.

The Portuguese were surprised at such light-footed creativity from the Germans and before they knew it, they were down 2-0.

Schweinsteiger swung in a free kick from near midfield. Ronaldo remained flat-footed while Klose sped by him and powerfully knocked the ball past Ricardo.

The sterling performance from Schweinsteiger was a perfect comeback for the peroxide-dyed midfielder, after he had been sent off for a petulant shove on an opponent in Germany's 2-1 loss to Croatia.

Now, the Germans will play the winner of Friday's quarterfinal match between Turkey and Croatia.

Germany prevailed even though coach Joachim Loew was banned from the game by UEFA after getting sent to the stands during the final group game, a 1-0 win over Austria.

They could have used his help when they were up 2-0, but Loew was sitting high in the stands, unable to influence his players. Instead of keeping up the defensive pressure, they fell back, a perilous choice against Ronaldo and Co.

The Manchester United forward finally found the tall Per Mertesacker wanting in the 40th minute, zoomed and rifled a shot at Lehmann. The goalkeeper could only deflect it in the path of Nuno Gomes and the captain brought Portugal back within striking distance before halftime.

The first half brought the strange spectacle where the best No. 7 was not Ronaldo but Schweinsteiger. The best midfielder was not Ballack but Deco.

And the capacity 39,374-crowd at St. Jakob Park was overwhelmingly German, after Portuguese fans dominated the first round.

Ronaldo, touted as the greatest to roam the Euro 2008 fields, was held in a tight zone defense that found him increasingly frustrated. Time and again, he threw up his hands in frustration at a perceived foul not whistled or a pass that went too long.

If need be, the Germans were rough on him.

Portugal pushed forward ever more, and when Germany was forced to commit two yellow-card fouls in the first five minutes it started to look bleak. Deco was only marginally offside when was in scoring position in the 51st, and Pepe headed just over in a goalmouth scramble minutes later.

Germany's' renowned steely resolve seemed to weaken to the point of collapse. At that point, Ballack brought deliverance.

Looking at a two-goal hole with half an hour to go, the Portuguese got disheartened. Even Ronaldo sent a free kick sky high, and Lehmann, not good enough for Arsenal, started making diving saves.

Over the game, Portugal outshot Germany almost two-to-one, but even with coach Luiz Felipe Scolari gesticulating wildly on the sidelines, it was impossible to get any fluency to their moves.

In the final minutes, Ballack was wrestling for the ball with Ronaldo in the penalty area. Ballack won. After losing the Premier League title and the Champions League, he prevailed on a great night for Germany.

---

Lineups:

Portugal: Ricardo, Paulo Ferreira, Jose Bosingwa, Pepe, Ricardo Carvalho, Armando Petit (Helder Postiga, 73), Joao Moutinho (Raul Meireles, 31), Deco, Cristiano Ronaldo, Nuno Gomes (Nani, 67), Simao Sabrosa.

Germany: Jens Lehmann, Arne Friedrich, Per Mertesacker, Christoph Metzelder, Philipp Lahm, Simon Rolfes, Bastian Schweinsteiger (Clemens Fritz, 83), Michael Ballack, Thomas Hitzlsperger (Tim Borowski, 73), Lukas Podolski, Miroslav Klose (Marcell Jansen, 89).

A MOUTHWATERING NBA Finals clash between the Boston Celtics and the LA Lakers is on the way with the Celtics leading the Lakers 3 - 1.

The Celtics Kevin Garnett will lead his team against the NBAs Most Valuable Player, Kobe Bryant, and the rest of his Lakers side.

---

 

 

 

 

No10: BEN GORDON, Chicago Bulls   BRITISH talent in the NBA is few and far between, but the Chicago Bulls point guard is making a big name for himself Stateside. Commanding a salary of £2.44m per year, Gordon, 25, was born in London but moved to the US shortly after his birth and grew up in Mount Vernon, New York. He became the first rookie in history to be awarded the NBA Sixth Man accolade the prize given to the leagues most valuable substitute.

 

 

 

No9: DWIGHT HOWARD, Orlando Magic   AN OUTSTANDING high school basketball career saw Howard, 22, given his big break in the NBA by the Magic at centre. He repaid their faith by emerging as one of the top rebound players in the league. Ranked as one of the best in the NBA at field goal percentages, Howards overall play and spectacular dunks have seen him hailed as one of the sports brightest prospects. He also won this years All-Star Slam Dunk contest wearing a Superman cape!

 

 

 

No8: DIRK NOWITZKI, Dallas Mavericks   STANDING at 7ft tall, German superstar Nowitzki, 29, is a seven-time NBA All-Star and was the first European-born player in history to win the NBA MVP accolade when he was awarded the title last year. Regarded as one of the best European basketball players ever, he was a budding tennis star until a growth spurt as a youngster halted his progress but he remains a regular visitor to Wimbledon.

 

 

 

No7: TIM DUNCAN, San Antonio Spurs   REGARDED as one of the best power forwards in NBA history, Duncan, 32, is a four-time NBA champion having won the title in 1999, 2003, 2005 and 2007 with San Antonio Spurs. He has also won the NBA MVP Award twice and has been voted into ten All-Star games, 11 All-NBA teams and 11 All-Defensive teams. A quiet, unassuming on-court persona belies his unquestioned basketball talent, though he could have been a swimming star for the Virgin Islands in 1992 had Hurricane Hugo not destroyed his countrys only Olympic-sized pool!

 

 

 

No6: SHAQUILLE ONEAL, Phoenix Suns   FOUR-TIME NBA champion ONeal is regarded as one of the most dominant players in the history of the game. The 36-year-old stars at centre for the Suns, after previous stints with the Miami Heat, LA Lakers and the Orlando Magic. ONeal won the championship three times with the Lakers and once with the Heat, and will be looking to add more silverware to his name with his new club after joining them in February.

 

 

 

No5: KEVIN GARNETT, Boston Celtics   CONSIDERED as one of the best all-round players in the NBA, power forward Garnett boasts numerous accomplishments to his name. He was voted the NBAs MVP in 2004 and this season saw him named NBA Defensive Player of the Year. He signed the biggest deal in US team sports history in 1997 when he agreed a £72m six-year contract with former side Minnesota Timberwolves which saw him earn £240,000 per week!

 

 

 

No4: LEBRON JAMES, Cleveland Cavaliers   KING JAMES made headline news in 2003 when he signed an unprecedented £45m shoe contract with Nike BEFORE hed played a single NBA game. James, 23, has since set numerous youngest player records, including Rookie of the Year in his debut season, and has received All-NBA and All-Star honours in the last three years. Led the Cavaliers to consecutive playoff appearances in 2006, 2007 and 2008 and looks set for an illustrious career in the NBA.

 

 

 

No3: CHRIS PAUL, New Orleans Hornets   TEN-PIN bowling fanatic Paul, 23, plays point guard for the Hornets, where he is carving out a reputation as one of the most feared players in the NBA. Averaged 21.2 points and 4 rebounds this season, he led the NBA in steals with 2.71 per game and weighed in with around 11.6 assists a match. Selected by NBA coaches to play in the NBA All-Star Game, Paul finished second in the MVP voting this term behind Kobe Bryant, who beat him with a margin of 306 votes.

 

 

 

No2: STEVE NASH, Phoenix Suns   BORN in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1974, Nash, 34, plays a starring role as the Phoenix Suns point guard. He has been instrumental in turning the side into one of the top teams in the Western Conference and has been named the leagues Most Valuable Player twice in 2005 and 2006. He is also widely regarded as one of the best three-point shooters in NBA history.

 

 

 

No1: KOBE BRYANT, Los Angeles Lakers   AWARDED this years Most Valuable Player accolade for leading the Lakers to the 2008 NBA Playoffs, Bryant, 29, rose to prominence in 1996 when he became the first guard in history to be drafted out of high school. Helped his team to three successive NBA championships between 2000 and 2002 and has become the cornerstone of the side. He was the NBAs leading scorer during the 2005-06 and 2006-07 campaigns and earns a staggering £9.75m per year.

Thursday, June 19, 2008 Home   Visitor Status Stadium Portugal vs. Germany 2:45 PM St. Jakob-Park All times are Eastern Time Friday, June 20, 2008 Home   Visitor Status Stadium Croatia vs. Turkey 2:45 PM Ernst Happel Stadion All times are Eastern Time Saturday, June 21, 2008 Home   Visitor Status Stadium Netherlands vs. Russia 2:45 PM St. Jakob-Park All times are Eastern Time Sunday, June 22, 2008 Home   Visitor Status Stadium Spain vs. Italy 2:45 PM Ernst Happel Stadion All times are Eastern Time

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Jamaica won the second leg 6-0, goals coming from a 3 time strike from Luton Shelton, 2 from Deon Burton and 1 from another player

Ronaldhino of course

-- Edited by JaydsTbalist at 18:56, 2008-05-31