Michael Bradley scored twice as the United States beat Mexico 2-0 in a World Cup qualifier yesterday and remained undefeated at home against El Tri since 1999.
On a wet and windy night at Crew Stadium, under the threat of a tornado watch, the Americans earned their ninth win in 11 matches on US soil against Mexico since 2000.
Tickets had sold out in 90 minutes, with many of the 23,776 fans showing up hours before to stand in the rain while waving flags and wearing their national colours.
DaMarcus Beasley's corner kick eventually found Oguchi Onyewu, whose header was stopped by diving Mexico goalkeeper Oswaldo Sanchez. But the rebound fell into the path of Bradley, who hit it home.
"It was a great corner from Beas, and Landon (Donovan) did a great job heading it back," Bradley said. "It was not so hard for me to put it in."
Then, in second-half injury time, Bradley took a pass from Donovan and his shot dipped under Sanchez's arms.
Mexico captain Rafael Marquez was ejected in the 65th minute when he went high to spike goalie Tim Howard as they went for a loose ball. Howard, who angrily threw the ball down while he flexed his leg, also picked up a yellow card for delay of game on the ensuing free kick.
The loss could mean more trouble for Mexico coach Sven-Goran Eriksson. His team, with just one win in its last seven outings, barely made it into CONCACAF's final round of qualifying.
Pointing to the adjustments, he explained: "In terms of team, when we had to change our shape because we had to go to a flat back four and we've played a back three, not only since I've been in charge in eight matches but years before that, and being able to adapt to a different scenario made me think how far they've come."
With Nwankwo Kanu pulling the strings when he dropped back from forward to midfield, Nigeria, whose rankings slipped more than six places to 23th yesterday, played their best and also created a couple of excellent finishes on goal in the second half, only to be denied by Jamaica's custodian, Tyrone Sawyers.
"The set pieces of Nigeria were very good, that's where they looked most dangerous. I think in open play they kept the ball very well, they didn't work on our goalkeeper but with crosses, corners and free kicks, they were excellent on set pieces and they're big and strong and very aggressive," said Barnes, coach of 64th-ranked Jamaica. "So our goalkeeper, when he was called upon, was very good."
He also had praise for their defensive unit.
"One thing the Jamaican public has to come to grips with is we've all these flair players and we like skilful players who do lots of tricks. Rodolph Austin and Jason Morrison are very hard-working and do lots of unseen work. They're the reason why the Luton Sheltons and Jermaine Johnsons can do what they do because they really cover a lot of ground," he pointed out. "If you check the back four they do a lot of work, so the balance is what's importance to me, our tactical discipline is what pleased me."
Liverpool's Danish defender Daniel Agger seemingly has quite a lot in common currently with his club manager Rafa Benitez. Like the Spaniard, the Dane is involved in a long-running saga centring on the negotiations for his new contract.
The situation has been complicated by a presistent and lon-running rumour that the defender is seriously considering a move to AC Milan, and was indeed widely expected to complete such a move during January's transfer window.
As it turned out, the move didn't materialise, but the Dane has announced today that he may have to start seriously seeking an alternative employer, if his requests for first-team action continue to be ignored.
"I would like to be honest and confess that I am disappointed not to be playing regularly. It is difficult to accept and I can't go on like this," he told Sporten.dk.
"It's never nice for a footballer not to play regularly. That is something I will not hide."
The Dane also seemed to point the finger at his manager as being the main obstruction to him enjoying the first-team opportunities he thinks he deserves.
"But my situation at the club is that he [manager Rafa Benitez] doesn't want to let me play," he added.
"So far I have opted to stay and wait for my chance and to fight for my place. I feel I am good enough. Therefore, it irritates me when I don't play.
"I am waiting for the chance to play a number of matches and to show that I am good enough."
Agger faces stiff competition at Anfield for the centre-back spots, with Jamie Carragher, Martin Skrtel and veteran Finn Sami Hyypia seemingly all ahead of the Dane in the pecking order.
Lionel Messi scored a brilliant solo goal yesterday to cap Argentina's 2-0 win over France and give Diego Maradona a second straight win as national team coach.
Messi was quiet until the 83rd minute, when the Barcelona striker collected the ball outside the penalty area, got through the French defence and beat goalkeeper Steve Mandanda inside his right post.
"Messi played fantastically well; it seems like the ball is glued to his body," Maradona said. "He also worked very hard to close down their defenders and stop the ball coming out."
Jonas Gutierrez scored the opener in the 41st when he beat Mandanda with a low shot inside the left post. The Marseille goalkeeper left a gap and reacted too slowly to the Newcastle player's shot.
Maradona's coaching debut in November saw a tenacious 1-0 win over Scotland, and again his team showed it had grit as well as flair by neutralising France's forwards.
"It is very positive so far over the two matches," Maradona said through an interpreter. "My team is able to hold the ball well and realise that they don't have to create a chance every time they have possession.
"The whole group has a very good level, so there will be a lot of competition for places. That is good, as it means we have enormous potential."
Poor results
Maradona was particularly pleased with the way his players kept their composure after a tricky start.
The latest win gives Maradona a timely boost ahead of World Cup qualifying next month. A string of poor results had led to the hiring of the team's former playmaker as coach following Alfio Basile's resignation in October.
Argentina is in third place in South American qualifying, one point behind Brazil and seven behind Paraguay ahead of its home game against Venezuela on March 28.
Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka missed France's best chance in the 30th, latching on to Yoann Gourcuff's pass and sprinting through only for goalkeeper Juan Pablo Carrizo to rush off his line quickly and block his shot.
David Beckham equalled England's appearance record for an outfield player but European champions Spain won the friendly 2-0 to extend its winning streak to 29 games.
David Villa and Fernando Llorente scored for Spain, who haven't lost since November 2006 and collected its 19th straight win and its third straight victory over England.
Nigeria's Uche Ikechukwu (left) is tackled by Jamaica's Tyrone Mears during their international friendly match at the New Den, London, yesterday. The game ended in a 0-0 draw. - file
LONDON, England
It's never always easy to bring your 'A' game to the table for a friendly. And especially against a team that has much to prove. That, according to head coach John Barnes, was one of the most pleasing aspects of the Reggae Boyz's show against Nigeria's Super Eagles, in their friendly international at The Den, Millwall Football Club's football stadium, in London yesterday.
"Overall I can't fault the players' effort or commitment, and the most pleasing thing for me is the fact that it's a friendly match, it is Nigeria's last match before the World Cup qualifiers and what people have always said, not only about Jamaica but developing countries, is when there's nothing on the match what sort of spirit and desire will they show," Barnes explained to the media in a post-match interview after the 0-0 result last night.
"The Jamaica players showed a lot of heart, a lot of spirit and I was pleased with the attitude of the players in a game, which was seen as a friendly match."
The Boyz, missing regular first-team players Donovan Ricketts, Ian Goodison, Ricardo Fuller and captain Ricardo Gardner, gave as much as they took in a contest that was exciting, with both teams creating their fair share of chances.
Back-to-back face-offs
Luton Shelton used his pace to create back-to-back face-offs against the opposing goalkeeper, Ejide Austine, while Marlon King, Demar Phillips and Wolry Wolfe all had decent chances to put a Jamaican name on the scoresheet, one blot the coach put against his team.
"The performance from the Jamaica team is what I expected. It's what they've shown me since I've been there (officially in November last year) against a very good Nigeria side, who played with a lot of composure, a lot of skill and a lot of cohesion.
"In the first half Nigeria gave us the run around a bit," noted Barnes. "They kept possession really well without creating that many chances."
He added: "In the second half I thought we controlled the ball better, we moved the ball better and to be fair, I'm disappointed we didn't win the match because of the chances that we had. We had three or four clear-cut chances. But as much as we had those chances, the goalkeeper is a big part of the game and he did well in the one-on-one situations."
Another high point for Barnes was represented by the team's adaptability, a situation forced upon the game when referee Mike Ryan expelled a player from either team in the 42nd minute - Jamaican midfielder Jermaine Johnson and Nigerian full back Taiye Taiwo.
Real Madrid president Vicente Boluda has declared that his side expect to win La Primera Division this season, despite trailing Barcelona by 12 points at present.
Due to the Catalans impeccable form at the top of the table, the defending champions have struggled to keep pace and the destination of the trophy already appears decided.
However, Boluda believes that his side, who have looked impressive under Juande Ramos, can turn the tables on Barca.
"We are continuing in good spirits, he told Marca. We expect to overtake them and win the league. I think we are capable [of doing so]. There are many difficult things to achieve in life but nothing is impossible.
Madrid do not seem to have lost any faith in their play, establishing a gap between themselves and third placed Sevilla with a strong winning run.
Aside from the league, los Blancos have been the centre of attention lately due more Cristiano Ronaldo rumours. Specifically, it has been reported that they have taken a loan out to sign the Manchester United player.
The Real Madrid president brushed away such suggestions, claiming that the club have done no such thing.
"We have not asked for any money, he declared. Asking for money for the month of June makes no sense. There is not a chance for us to sign anybody at the moment.
Boluda is acting as Real Madrid president following the departure of Ramon Calderon, but it is widely believed that he will step down in the summer.
Samir Nasri has today spoken out about the reclusive lifestyle he is forced to live, not because of an ascetic devotion to the 'Beautiful Game', but rather through necessity.
The Marseille-born winger, it seems, is so mobbed by the female of the species when he leaves his house, that his life is simply unmanageable. The overwhelming desire of his female fans is evidenced by the stacks of mail he receives containing tokens of admirers' lust, as well as a whole host of strange appeals amongst the requests for his phone number.
"I spend lots of time at home playing Pro Evolution Soccer," Nasri is reported by English tabloid The Daily Mail as saying.
"Ever since I have been a professional footballer it has been harder for me to go out and not be noticed.
I have never had any problems with women I often get letters from girls, who send me their phone numbers and photos. They want to contact me because I am a footballer."
And Nasri seems to find the attention genuinely tiresome, wistfully commenting that he wanted to meet someone more interested in the fundamental aspects of his personality, rather than his fame and money.
"Things have always worked for me in the female department - but I want people to be interested in me for who I am and not for my money," he added.
Nasri also revealed that the Arsenal dressing-room is highly competitive in the style stakes as well, with anyone guilty of sartorial offences being swiftly and surely dealt with by the Gunners' 'fashion police'.
"But everybody at Arsenal dresses well - and they have an interest in doing so," he concluded.
"When a player lacks taste in what he wears, we are quick to let him know. He finds his outfit dumped in the dustbin, and we take the Mickey out of him."
Togo and Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor was named the Confederation of African Football's Player of the Year on Tuesday.
He took the award ahead of BBC African Footballer of the Year Mohamed Aboutrika of Egypt.
The award was decided by a poll of African national team coaches, and Caf's figures gave Adebayor 74 points to Aboutrika's 53.
Adebayor scored 24 goals in the English Premier League last season.
He also scored four goals in three games for Togo in their World Cup qualifiers.
"I'm highly honoured by what I have done in African football," said Adebayor at the awards ceremony in the Nigerian city of Lagos.
"Now that the World Cup is coming close and is in Africa, we'll work hard to win the championship."
Aboutrika won the Inter-Clubs Player of the Year award, for locally based players.
His club, Al Ahly, was voted Club of the Year, while Africa Cup of Nations winners Egypt won the National Team of the Year award and their coach Hassan Shehata was voted Coach of the Year.
Caf award winners:
Caf Player of the Year Emmanuel Adebayor (Arsenal and Togo)
Inter-Club Player of the Year Mohamed Aboutrika (Al Ahly)
National Team of the Year Egypt
Club of the Year Al Ahly (Egypt)
Young Player of the Year Salomon Kalou (Chelsea and Ivory Coast)
Women's footballer of the year Alice Mattlou (South Africa)
Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has asserted that he will never join Chelsea and that he will never agree a deal with Roman Abramovich, the Russian tycoon who owns the London club.
The Rossoneri tactician has been linked with the Blues job at the end of the season when Guus Hiddink's deal expires. Speculation is rife in both England and Italy that the Italian will join Chelsea in the summer.
However, the English side might as well forget about making any attempt to land Ancelotti as they are likely to have the door embarra**ingly slammed in their faces.
"I rejected [the offer] Abramovich [made] in the summer and I will continue to turn him down," Ancelotti told La Stampa.
"Chelsea did come forward for me and I met Abramovich, but I didn't want to leave Milan. The same thing will happen now but I am not thinking of leaving."
With the possibility of Paolo Maldini retiring at the end of the season, many believe Sunday's derby will be his last. Ancelotti also feels that his legendary captain will be hanging up his boots in May.
"Paolo has such a maturity that he also thinks that it's the right moment to end," concluded the coach.
Fernando Llorente might be feeling joyous after his Spain goal last night but Athletic Bilbao are probably not so happy.
It has been revealed today that the striker was injured during the game and is now likely to miss his club's clash with Recreativo Huelva this weekend. Marca reports that the Basque has suffered an injury to his right leg, and is almost certain to miss the game at San Mames.
Tests carried out this afternoon confirmed that his "period of absence will depend on his evolution in the next few days," and that will be a blow to Athletic Bilbao.
It will also be frustrating to the striker who, after a slow start to the season, had started to find some good form lately.
The goal he scored last night against England was his first in a Spain shirt and he declared today how important it was for him.
Spain ran out 2-0 winners at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan after David Villa had put them ahead in the first-half.
The win keeps their undefeated record intact but means that Fabio Capello has lost his as England manager.
If Llorente cannot make it back for the game with Recreativo then he will be hoping to play in the next match against Getafe.
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been crystal clear about what he feels is the club's priority this season, and it is not capturing the Premier League to match Liverpool's record of 18 domestic titles.
Nor is it winnning domestic knockout competitions the League Cup, in which they face Tottenham Hotspur in the final next month, and the FA Cup, where they take on Derby County in the fifth round on Sunday afternoon.
There is only one priority for United this campaign, according to the tough-talking Scotsman: "The European Cup."
Speaking to The Manchester Evening News earlier, Ferguson was specific and reasoned in identifying his key targets for the rest of the season.
"There is an opportunity to draw level with Liverpool, but that is not my priority," he added.
"You look at our record in Europe and it should have been better.
"Nobody has successfully defended the Champions League. That is a great challenge to us. Hopefully, we can do it again."
Ferguson also feels that his side pose a genuine threat in the competiton, as he appears to think that United can more than match any potential continental opposition.
"Inter are a strong and powerful team," he added. "But we shouldn't have a problem experience and temperament-wise.
"If we can get an away goal we will have a marvellous chance of getting through.
"Barcelona are taking all the headlines this season. Their performance in the [Spanish] league has been absolutely outstanding.
"I think Barcelona are going to be the biggest threat if United are going to win the European Cup again this season."
And the Scot was bullish when assesing his own squad's capabilities, concluding, "I think in terms of having a complete squad, this is the best."
United travel to Milan for the first leg of their last-16 tie with Inter on February 24.
Following Spain's victory over England last night, David Villa has hailed his side as the best in the world, with a key factor in their success being the blend of strength they possess on both flanks, as well as in defence and attack.
El Guaje got the first goal for his country after some lovely control and whilst he paid tribute to the side, he also recognised that they need to keep their feet on the ground.
"Today, Spain are the best team in the world because of their balance, but nobody is going to give us anything tomorrow. Everyone speaks well of the team and that is nice...[but] one must keep the feet on the ground and although it is all very good, one must continue in the same way to keep on winning," he told AS.
Predictably, Spain have been touted as the favourites for the World Cup in 2010, and Villa admitted that right now they are the best because "the results say so, the play in the matches and the statistics".
However, he is not getting too carried away and claimed that despite the compliments "to be world champions is difficult to predict" and there is "a lot of time left, and we are not even qualified".
Along with general analysis, Villa also looked at the strength of the team across the pitch, paying tribute to various positions.
"Defensively we are very strong, with two big goalkeepers and others waiting...[the midfield is] the best centre in the world with many options and players on the bench and up front we have a lot of goals, which makes a complete side," he mused.
Whilst Villa might have enjoyed his time with Spain it is back to La Primera at the weekend as Valencia take on Malaga and the striker declared that his next intention is to "get those vital three points".
Milan midfielder David Beckham believes his loan spell at the club has helped improve his fitness and game, as the race to make his stay permanent gathers pace.
The England international has been outstanding for the Rossoneri and he is back in training after international week as he prepares for his first Milan derby on Sunday night.
The Rossoneri have been trying to sign him permanently, but the Los Angeles Galaxy have been playing hard ball.
Nevertheless, 'Becks' insists the training regime at the Italian club have seen him improve on every level as he hints at a possible stay.
"Milan has done me a world of good," Beckham told the club's official website.
"I am in top form and my fitness is a lot better compared to what it was before.
"In just a month and a half my physical condition has grown 100 per cent. This is the most important thing to me."
Voices coming from America have asked the Italians to step up their bid for Beckham if they are to land him permanently. The MLS have given Adriano Galliani and co. until Friday to secure the player's services for the long
Guus Hiddink began his resuscitiation of Chelsea's season today by travelling to London and meeting the players at training.
The Dutchman, who is also coach of the Russian national team and will c****ine both roles until the end of the season, had a look round the stadium and training facilites as he began his takeover from previous manager Luiz Felipe Scolari.
"(Hiddink) arrived at the training ground shortly before 1pm when he was greeted by (chief executive) Peter Kenyon," the club's official website confirmed earlier.
"The pair took a tour of the main building and met some of the players in the treatment room."
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich was also reportedly present for the visit of the Dutchman, said to be a close personal friend of the Russian oligarch, whose Russian side played with such impressive skill and verve at Euro 2008.
Hiddink watched caretaker boss Ray Wilkins, the coach who will take charge for the weekend's FA Cup tie, direct training, before enjoying a lenghty conversation with the former England midfielder.
Newcastle United have issued a statement confirming that Joe Kinnear will undergo a triple heart bypass operation, the consequences of which will keep him away from the Magpies dug-out and training ground for at least two months.
The prognosis is reportedly positive though, and Kinnear may well make a re-appearance at the club before the end of the season.
As it currently stands, assistant manager Chris Hughton and coach Colin Calderwood will handle team affairs in the interim, as the stress of steadying a club in such turmoil as Newcastle finally seems to have taken its toll on the 62-year-old with a history of heart problems, though reports have surfaced in England that perhaps former Barcelona coach Terry Venables might be called in as a stop-gap.
Venables apparently turned the job down in Septmeber before it was originally offered to Kinnear, The Daily Mail reported earlier this week.
Kinnear had been admitted to hospital in the West Midlands prior to the Magpies' 3-2 victory over West Bromwich Albion at the weekend, after complaining of feeling ill in the morning .
His *lo** pressure was discovered to be high, and now surgery has been deemed to be the answer to the problem.
Kinnear himself thanked fans for the messages of support he had received since news of illness had been announced.
"I've really appreciated al the get well messages I've received from people over the last week, and I'd like to thank everyone who has beenin touch," the Irishman told the club's official website.
Toon managing director Derek Llambias added his voice to the good wishes, adding, "I am sure the whole football community will join Newcastle United in wishing Joe a speedy recovery."
Earlier, the man who will fill in for Kinnear, fellow former Republic of Ireland international Chris Hughton, asserted his confidence in the man who will assist him in the dug-out, former Nottingham Forest manager Colin Calderwood.
"Hell be a big plus for us," Hughton told The Newcastle Chronicle earlier. "I worked with him at Spurs, and I know he has the qualities you need in management. He has a lot of enthusiasm."
Chelsea's new temporary coach has spoken out for the first time today about his reasons for taking on the role at the west London outfit, and also of his ambitions for the Blues.
Guus Hiddink confirmed the suspicions of many when he admitted that his friendly relationship with Chelsea's Russian multi-billionaire owner Roman Abramovich was a key factor in his deciding to assume the Chelsea role as well as continuing with his work as Russian national team coach.
"When the situation occurred as its happened now then I was asked to come," the Dutchman explained to ChelseaTV earlier.
"[It's] because of my relationship with Roman Abramovich as well, and of course, it's a big club.
"But let me be honest. I came because he [Abramovich] asked me to join the club for the upcoming time."
Hiddink was also insistent that, despite the gloomy outlook of many supporters, the Blues still had plenty to play for during the rest of this campaign.
"They are in several races," he added. "The FA Cup is there, there's the Champions League, but also the league.
"There's a ten point difference as you mentioned, but if you look into the past, not just in this league but other leagues as well, some things can happen during the final stages of the championship."
The former South Korea manager, who also successfully c****ined the roles of coaching the Australian national side and PSV Eindhoven between 2002 and 2006, met the players for the first time at Chelsea's Cobham training ground today, and seemed to have a positive initial impression.
Ivorian striker Saloman Kalou asserted to Sky Sports News that Hiddink was "a nice guy," and he was "really excited" to be working with him.
Despite Franck Ribery repeatedly declaring that he intends to stay and see out his current contract with Bayern Munich, which runs until 2011, the Frenchman's future continues to draw much speculation.
However, one of his team-mates at the Allianz Arena, Mark van Bommel, has urged the playmaker to consider joining Barcelona, believing that the Frenchman could be a real success in Catalonia if he does decide to leave the Bavarians in the future.
Ribery is an explosive, skilful and very technical player but he is also a fighter, the Dutchman told El Mundo Deportivo.
I do not know if he wants to go to Barcelona, but it would not be unusual if he does because Franck is the best.
For me, if he joins Barca, he could reach the same level as Ronaldinho.
Van Bommel, who spent a season at the Camp Nou under Frank Rijkaard, believes that Ribery would have no problems fitting into Barcelonas already star-studded line-up.
At the moment, I have not spoken to Franck about this subject, but I will, he added.
I believe that he can play at Barcelona without any problems. He would be able to adapt easily because he has a lot of qualities: hes a hard worker; he hardly stops running; and when he has the ball at his feet, he knows what to do.
He knows how to assist his team-mates and to score goals himself. He has already demonstrated that he is a big-game player.
And I think that [Barcelona head coach] Josep Guardiola would like him. I believe Barca already tried to sign him last summer.
The Catalan giants have continually kept interest in Ribery but they will have to face a number of ultra-rich rivals for his signature. Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester City are also believed to be interested in the 25-year-old.
Diego Maradona believes that his Argentina side were so good at times during their victory in Marseille on Wednesday that they made France look foolish.
The Albiceleste coach was delighted with his side's performance as they defied the critics to record an impressive victory against les Bleus, thanks to goals from Jonas Gutierrez and Lionel Messi.
Argentina were expected to stumble after several star names became unavailable, but Maradona has instilled a confidence in his players and they were outstanding.
"We knew that we had to maintain the same level that we played in the first 30 minutes against Scotland and then we could win. That happened and for some time we made France look ridiculous," La Nacion quote him as saying.
"I thought that we controlled France better in the second half. We marked better. They depend a lot on Ribery and we tried to neutralise him all the time."
"We worked out how they would play and everyone played very well. Everything was positive. The team understood that we had to keep the ball because the opposition were so good.
"Also, we recognised that being desperate to reach the opposition goal the whole time creates dificulties We had to play without looking to attack with every ball.
"We have evolved as a team. There are other players that can come in, but they are going to have to be playing very well. This team played at a very high level. That is good news and I am proud.
"We needed a win so that they believed in themselves. I am very proud and I will not stop saying that.
"I had great motivators like Menotti and Bilardo. I learned a lot of good things from them. But I do not win games, the players do.
"I am even more confident. Once again we have shown that even if certain players do not play, I have a great squad. But I did not believe what people said and did not agree with those that said we did not have enough experience. Now I believe them even less."
Lionel Messi's stock continued to rise as he produced another good display and earned the praise of the coach who only last year called him greedy in possession.
"He played fantastically. The ball is like an extension of his body and it is impossible to take it off him," Maradona exclaimed.
"When he needed to help the team he did it.
"I saw that in the first 20 minutes the lines between the team were too big, but between him and Aguero we worked it out."
It has been a hard year for David Trezeguet. Injury has seen him miss much, including the advance of Amauri into his regular spot in the Bianconeris starting XI. Coach Claudio Ranieri now has decisions to make, since the Frenchman is finally back in training.
Juve are playing their season on three fronts: Coppa Italia, Serie A and Champions League; therefore the return of one of the best goal poachers in Europe will be good news.
For the man himself, however, the priority is clear, as he told the Juventus channel, All the others are important objectives, but the Champions League is the only one I am missing [from my medal collection].
The striker has won everything with the national side, and needs only the premier club competitions medal to complete his trophy cabinet.
I am training well, he continued, and hope to be able to start games and get back to scoring as soon as possible.
With Inter still ahead in Serie A, and Guus Hiddink and Chelsea waiting for them in the next round of the Champions League, Juve will need the 31-year-old back to his very best as soon as can be.
David Beckham admitted any personal glory was outweighed by England's 2-0 defeat in Spain.
The midfielder came on as a half-time substitute to equal Bobby Moore's record of 108 caps for an outfield player, but he could do little as goals in each half from David Villa and Fernando Llorente gave the hosts a merited victory in Seville.
"I think I've always said it's an honour to be up there with the likes of Sir Bobby Charlton and Bobby Moore, but the more important thing is the game and we lost tonight, so I'm disappointed,'' he told ITV1. "But of course I'm honoured.
"I've always worked hard at my game and it's what I enjoy doing, and I've had some great managers along the way. I'm enjoying my football and I hope it continues.
"Every time I play for the country I'm very proud but tonight on 108 caps, to be with Bobby Moore, is something very special.''
The 33-year-old was booked in the dying moments for dissent but he added: "Why would you want to focus on that rather than the 108 caps?''
Beckham admitted Spain deserved their win.
"They're always going to bring pressure and keep the ball well,'' he added. "They got two good goals, and overall maybe they deserved the win, but we'll move on.''
Fabio Capello does not feel it was a night for celebration even though he learned some valuable lessons against the Euro 2008 winners.
"I think he will be disappointed that he got the record but we lost,'' said Capello. "I would have been more happy if we had won but I am happy for him.''
Although he made a positive contribution, Beckham also picked up a yellow card for dissent after Glen Johnson had been penalised for a foul.
The 33-year-old continued his protests, although he at least managed to avoid further punishment. Beckham's frustration was easy enough to understand. Although they played well in patches, England were beaten by a better side.
In Xavi, the hosts boasted the best player on the pitch and had plenty of others as back up.
"Spain play with the same style and the same players that won Euro 2008,'' reflected Capello. "They play very naturally because they know each other so well. It is almost as though they are playing from memory.
"They wait when they have got possession and they punish you as soon as you make a mistake. Without doubt they are one of the teams who could win the World Cup.''
Capello now has six weeks before his side get together again for a friendly with Slovakia on March 28 before the crucial World Cup qualifier against the Ukraine at Wembley four days later.
"I am not happy because we lost but I understand a lot for the future,'' said the Italian.
"I understand about the movement of the players and I understand what we are like when we play against a team with Spain's style. This is very important.
"We can play the same style but we have to play to the style of the players we have got at this time.''
Although Gareth Barry and Michael Carrick failed to match the performance they produced against Germany last November, Capello recognises Spain are a class apart at present.
And he feels Barry and Carrick, plus Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard, who was missing through injury, need to emulate the Spanish engine room.
"Spain has one of the best midfields in the world,'' said Capello. "They are very good at keeping possession and at the same time they move the ball around. They created chances tonight but so did we.
"The main thing is I picked a few things up for the next game when we are playing for World Cup qualification.''
Guus Hiddink agreed yesterday to manage Chelsea until the end of the season, while continuing to coach Russia's national team.
Chelsea said the 62-year-old Dutchman will meet his new players later this week ahead of Saturday's FA Cup match at Watford. He replaces Luiz Felipe Scolari, who was fired on Monday after seven months as manager.
Hiddink said he was taking the Chelsea job out of solidarity with owner Roman Abramovich, who is the financial backer of the Russian national team.
"There's a special relationship between Russian and Chelsea by Roman Abramovich," Hiddink said on Sky Sports. "He asked me and the federation to help out because he's doing a lot for the federation and Russian football, and it's an exception because we try to help each other."
Simple time
Hiddink will remain as Russia coach as the team seeks to qualify for the 2010 World Cup.
"It's the sort of situation that everyone needs to get what's best for themselves," Hiddink told Russian television from the team's training camp in Turkey. "It's not a simple time for people, including for the (Russian Football Union).
Hiddink hasn't ruled out staying at Chelsea permanently.
Russia has two World Cup qualifying games over the course of the rest of the English league season, at home to Azerbaijan on March 28 and away to Liechtenstein four days later.
Those dates should not conflict with Chelsea league games, and the qualifiers are games Russia should win comfortably as it chases Germany for the top spot in Group 4.
The Chelsea job will be Hiddink's first with a top European side since a stint in 1998 at Real Madrid, which lasted less than a year before being fired.
Hiddink won domestic and European club titles with PSV Eindhoven and, at international level, led the Netherlands to the 1998 World Cup semifinals, South Korea to the same stage four years later and took underdog Australia to the second round in 2006.
With a bulk of their key figures missing due to international commitments, Pep Guardiola only had nine players at his disposal and they were forced to train together with the B team, Luis Enriques Barcelona Atletic, in order to make up the numbers.
But there was some good news for the Blaugrana coach as he recovered midfielder Seydou Keita, who had been released by Mali coach Jean-Francois Jodar ahead of the friendly against Angola (which Mali won 4-0) so that he could continue his recovery back in Barcelona.
The 29-year-old picked up a knock three weeks ago after a collision with Espanyol goalkeeper Carlos Kameni in the Copa del Rey, but he finally resumed training yesterday with the rest of the squad.
Meanwhile, centre-back Carles Puyol, who had to pull out of Spains friendly with England in Seville due to a muscular niggle, continued specific rehabilitation work on his own as he races against time to be fit for this Saturdays clash with Real Betis.
Real Madrid's next president will have the option to sign Cristiano Ronaldo in July after the current chief pushed through an agreement that will put everything in place for the transfer, according to a report.
Vicente Boluda, who will step down as interim president at the end of this season, has decided to press ahead with the deal and has signed all the necessary paperwork for Los Merengues to borrow around 70 million of the 100m transfer fee.
AS state that Ronaldo and his agent have also put pen-to-paper on a contract that would see Madrid receive a hefty compensation fee should the Portuguese star back out of a summer move.
One hitch still remains. AS has revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson's wrath is still likely to have an influence on any proposed move, and the Scot could well block the transfer.
Ronaldo's story filled newspapers in Spain and England last summer and look set to do so again this year, with AS already at the forefront of the rumours once more.
According to the paper, the Portuguese international would earn an annual salary of 12m, his agent would pocket a fee of 8m for brokering the deal, and the transfer fee would be around 100m.
If agreed, the move could leave the new president with a huge financial problem on his hands as the Spanish giants already said to be around 300 million in debt.
After a slow start to the year, things have started to pick up with a total of 57 'A' matches being played since the last FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking in January. With none of the top teams taking part in any of these matches, however, there have been no changes within the top 10 this month. Spain still lead by a clear margin, followed by Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Brazil and Argentina. Newly ranked within the top 20 are Romania, who have gained four places (17th, up 4).
Of the 57 matches played, 26 were friendlies, while 31 were qualifying matches for continental championships - 14 played in the CONCACAF region and 17 in the AFC region. The UNCAF Nations Cup had a big impact on the top 50 this month, with the two finalists - Costa Rica (38th, up 9) and Panama (50th, up 33) - moving up the ranks. Making history, Panama not only secured their first victory in this competition, but also succeeded in gaining a place among the world's 50 best teams for the first time.
Notable winners outside the top 50 include Bahrain (74th, up 15), Benin (81st, up 18), Bermuda (116th, up 15) and Nicaragua (132nd, up 50). Qualifying for the CONCACAF Gold Cup for the first time ever, Nicaragua are the biggest movers this month, securing their highest placing since the inception of the FIFA/ Coca-Cola World Ranking, together with Australia (27th, up 2), Gambia (73rd, up 2) and Montenegro (111th, up 2).
Los Angeles Galaxy coach Bruce Arena has backed MLS chief Don Garber's push for Milan's David Beckham deal to reach a quick conclusion.
Garber has given the Italian's an ultimatum to sign 'Becks' by Friday or forget about him altogether. Milan are keen on keeping the England international, however, they are taking their time over the deal, frustrating the Americans.
Reports suggest the initial bid from Milan, which was rejected by the MLS club, was way off the Galaxys asking price and little progress seems to have been made since. Arena is also angry with the idleness of the situation and he is demanding a rapid conclusion to the saga.
We think its best to come to a conclusion, Arena told USA Today. Either David is going to stay with the Galaxy or remain at AC Milan.
The coachs words echo those of Garber, who seemed frustrated with the Italians for dallying over the negotiations. Milan think they have until March to reach a deal but the MLS chief made it clear that this is not the case.
The league own Beckham's contract and they want Milan to come up with a quick answer regarding the England internationals future.
So far there has been no reaction from the Diavoli, but the Italians are unlikely to be fazed over the push to close the deal.
What originally seemed like a friendly settlement is now heading towards a nasty conclusion.
Juventus have shown sporting director Alessio Secco the fist of faith as they have extended his contract until 2011.
The announcement comes from the club and a statement on their official website reads:
"Juventus have extended Alessio Secco's deal for an extra two years. He has been sporting director at the club since 2006."
Secco, who was behind the deals to bring Amauri, Momo Sissoko and Christian Poulsen to Turin has come under some criticism from fans for his choices, but chief executive Jean Claude Blanc has heaped high praise on him.
"During his time here Secco has shown his qualities as a manager with professionalism in his role as a sporting director," Blanc told Il Corriere Dello Sport.
"The renewal with Juventus will contribute to giving more stability towards our project."
Secco, who is also the vice president of the association of Italian sporting directors, is delighted with his new deal.
"The recognition from the club in terms of my hard work will help me and my staff take Juventus back to the pinnacle of European and Italian football," added the director.
"I can guarantee that I will continue to work hard and build a competitive team which will be capable of giving Juventus fans great satisfaction."
Although France controlled a great deal of the ball against Argentina, les Bleus came up against an impressive defensive unit that appeared tactically aware of what they were trying to achieve in the match. Springing on the counter-attack, the South Americans found the net twice, leaving the French reeling and consigned to a 2-0 defeat.
Those French players who chose to speak to the press after the game - for les Bleus are not obliged by their federation to talk to the media post-match - stressed their feelings of helplessness as Diego Maradonas well-drilled unit marched to a rather comfortable victory.
There is little we could do in the last five minutes because we felt we had no solution, bemoaned midfielder Jeremy Toulalan to LEquipe. Its a shame to lose 2-0 but, given the way the match went, it is not so ridiculous.
It was a bad second half, Ribery aside, but the first was very good. They were unable to play and we had opportunities. The goal hurt us badly.
Thierry Henry also felt that an opportunity had been lost in the first half. If we had scored, we would have seen another game, the Barcelona forward asserted.
Meanwhile, Ribery preferred to praise les Bleus opponents. We played against one of the best teams in the world, the highly-rated Bayern Munich midfielder stated before analysing les Bleus attacking performance.
There are positives and negatives because now we can see what we lack. We need more movement, which is easy to work on. We are still waiting for an individual exploit from one player. Its hard for everyone but we must remain united.
Frances next challenge is a double-header against Lithuania. Les Bleus go to the former Soviet bloc county on March 28 before hosting them in France on April 1. These fixtures will go a long way to determining the ability of Raymond Domenechs side to qualify for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
Italy looked slow and lacking in ideas and inspiration when they were beaten by Brazil on Tuesday night at the Emirates stadium. There had been talk of a return to the Azzurri set up for Roma man Francesco Totti, but now it seems further off.
Coach Marcello Lippi was speaking to La Gazzetta Dello Sport, when he said, Theres nothing happening with Totti, I have always said, that it was his decision to leave the national side.
[Alessandro] Del Piero? I know him very well, and Italys doors are open to all, but we will talk about that closer to the World Cup, which goes for [Antonio] Cassano too.
The tactician only really became enthusiastic when the name Giuseppe Rossi was mentioned. Rossi really bowled me over, the World Cup winner stated, I was so impressed with his personality and will to work, he did brilliantly.
Italy will now need all their forward fire power, as Irelands win against Georgia means they joined the Azzurri at the top of Group 8 and the world champions cannot afford to drop points when qualifying restarts in March.
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been crystal clear about what he feels is the club's priority this season, and it is not capturing the Premier League to match Liverpool's record of 18 domestic titles.
Nor is it winnning domestic knockout competitions the League Cup, in which they face Tottenham Hotspur in the final next month, and the FA Cup, where they take on Derby County in the fifth round on Sunday afternoon.
There is only one priority for United this campaign, according to the tough-talking Scotsman: "The European Cup."
Speaking to The Manchester Evening News earlier, Ferguson was specific and reasoned in identifying his key targets for the rest of the season.
"There is an opportunity to draw level with Liverpool, but that is not my priority," he added.
"You look at our record in Europe and it should have been better.
"Nobody has successfully defended the Champions League. That is a great challenge to us. Hopefully, we can do it again."
Ferguson also feels that his side pose a genuine threat in the competiton, as he appears to think that United can more than match any potential continental opposition.
"Inter are a strong and powerful team," he added. "But we shouldn't have a problem experience and temperament-wise.
"If we can get an away goal we will have a marvellous chance of getting through.
"Barcelona are taking all the headlines this season. Their performance in the [Spanish] league has been absolutely outstanding.
"I think Barcelona are going to be the biggest threat if United are going to win the European Cup again this season."
And the Scot was bullish when assesing his own squad's capabilities, concluding, "I think in terms of having a complete squad, this is the best."
United travel to Milan for the first leg of their last-16 tie with Inter on February 24.
Thirty five-year-old Ryan Giggs has been a key member of Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United squad this term, performing well when called upon and offering his experience to a largely young side.
The Welsh wing wizard has provided five assists in the Premier League and decisively netted his first goal at the weekend, separating the Red Devils from West Ham United. In the aftermath, he's been earning lavish praise.
Earlier today, he told the Daily Mirror that he "won't be retiring", confirming that talks were ongoing and that he's enjoying life at Old Trafford more than at any other point during his career.
Now, it's been confirmed that the talks have been successful and Giggs has inked a deal which will keep him playing until June 2010.
He told the club's official website, "I feel fit and I'm enjoying my football more than ever.
"I want to be a part of this exciting young team and achieve even more success."
Boss Fergie added, "Ryan is a true professional of the game. He's an inspiration to any young kid who wants to become a footballer.
"He is like a young boy in the way that he plays and, although he wants to play every game, he understands that using his experience when it matters is a benefit to him and the team.
"It would be easy for him to be complacent after all he has achieved, but he isnt. That's why the club wanted to extend his services and use that experience."
European champions Manchester United will go head-to-head with Italian giants Inter for Belgian starlet Axel Witsel at the end of the season, according to a report in the British tabloid The Sun.
It is thought that Red Devils manager Alex Ferguson is keen to boost his midfield options as England international Owen Hargreaves has been struggling to stave off injury woes.
Former Bayern Munich midfielder Hargreaves has toiled for fitness since moving to Old Trafford in 2007, starting just 23 games last season and making only three appearances during this campaign.
Reportedly, 20-year-old Witsel is seen as an ideal replacement and, despite his young age, he already has plenty of first-team experience, including five full caps for Belgium.
It is claimed that United will offer Standard Liege 8.8 million (£8m) for the 6ft midfielder, although Inter head coach Jose Mourinho is keen to add him to his squad, which could spark a bidding war.
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- With the majority of the 23,677 fans at Crew Stadium rooting him and his United States teammates on, Michael Bradley scored two opportunistic goals to give his American squad another 2-0 victory against Mexico. The match was played in windy conditions and the pitch was soaked from an afternoon of heavy rain, but Bob Bradley's team prevailed in the first game of the final round of CONCACAF 2010 World Cup qualifying. The job was made easier by Rafael Marquez being sent off after seeing a straight red for kicking Tim Howard in the 65th minute during a scramble in front of the American net.
First Half
The U.S. adjusted to the 50 mile-per-hour winds quicker in the first half, but Mexico had the first chance of the night. In the 6th minute, El Tri had a dangerous free kick from left of the 18, but Pavel Pardo's attempt went just over the crossbar.
Good hustle by Clint Dempsey in the 12th minute led to a wide ball that Beasley knocked back into the middle of the goal box. Brian Ching jumped to meet the ball, but Mexico's defender just beat him to it.
The U.S. began to assert itself, although the attack had trouble connecting enough passes to make a dangerous run at Sanchez's net. The team's best chance of the first half hour came in the 21st when after Carlos Salcido shoved Ching down just outside the box. Donovan's ensuing shot from near the left arch found its way through the wall but missed the right post by inches.
Dempsey almost put the Americans ahead by one in the 31st when Donovan got on the end of a Beasley cross and dropped it back to the Texan just outside the six-yard box. Dempsey struck it well, but Sanchez was up to the task.
Nery Castillo came out with an injury in the 34th minute and was replaced by San Luis midfielder Israel Martinez. El Tri immediately started gaining its fair share of play, forcing and excellent save from Howard in the 37th minute.
Michael Bradley showed off his offensive prowess seconds later, unleashing a rocket from 30 yards that drifted just wide left of the cage.
Martinez wasted an effort in the 40th minute, barely making Howard work to save his free kick.
Three minutes before halftime, Bradley made it 1-0 on a bouncing ball in the six-yard box. Donovan headed a Beasley corner back across the net, which found Onyewu's head. Sanchez made the initial save, diving to his left, but the coach's son was standing in the right place and slammed a half-volley into the net.
Beasley almost made it 2-0 just before the whistle, but he tripped as he made a move on Sanchez.
Second Half
The first semi-chance of the second half came seven minutes in when Dempsey stole a pass from Aaron Galindo. He raced down the right flank, cut inside, and left the ball for Kljestan. The center midfielder tried a low centering return pass but it was behind his intended target.
Antonio "Sinha" Naelson came on for Alberto Medina in the 60th minute.
In the 65th minute, Mexico should have scored after Giovanni Dos Santos missed at the near post and the ball flew up into the air. Marquez was shown a straight red after he maliciously crashed into Howard studs-up, making no effort for the ball Howard would clearly claim. The American goalkeeper was given a yellow on the play for stalling.
Even a man-down, Mexico had the majority of possession, but couldn't crack the U.S. backline. El Tri brought on Omar Bravo for the young Dos Santos in the 72nd minute.
Mexico gained a corner in 79th minute after some shoddy defending by Gooch forced Howard off his line to clear the ball behind the touchline. Osorio's glancing header off the Pardo corner was cleared from danger by a flying Bocanegra.
Jozy Altidore got his first experience in the storied rivalry when he came on for Ching in the 83rd minute, and Ricardo Clark got another taste, taking Kljestan's spot in the 86th.
Altidore made his presence felt with a long run in stoppage time. He was taken down by a Mexican slide tackle just as he dished to Donovan who then crossed to Bradley. The youngster's aim was true, blasting the ball through Sanchez's hands from just outside the 18-yard box. From there, it was just formalities as the U.S. had another 2-0 victory.
United States Howard Hedjuk -- Bocanegra -- Onyewu -- Pearce Beasley -- Kljestan (Clark 86') -- Dempsey Donovan Ching (Altidore 83')
Real Madrid took advantage of the midweek international friendly break to fine-tune their squad and give some of the fringe players a closer assessment.
Juande Ramos side organised a friendly with Real Madrid Castilla and the senior side easily won 4-2 thanks to a hat-trick from outcast, Javier Saviola and one from Royston Drenthe.
The good news, however, was that midfielder Guti successfully made a return from injury and completed 45 minutes of the game without any problems.
The No. 14 picked up a second degree muscle tear in his left leg on January 17 just prior to the clash against Osasuna and he was expected to be sidelined for up to a month. But he has made a speedy recovery and has been deemed 100% fit by the club doctors and in theory, will be available for selection for this weekends trip to El Molinon to face Sporting Gijon.
However, Juande could decide not to rush back and risk the 32-year-old, who has not played since the 2-0 win over Valencia on December 20, in anticipation for the resumption of the Champions League on February 25 when Los Blancos will take on Liverpool in the round of 16.
If Guti fails to make the squad to face Sporting, then he will be highly expected to make his comeback the following weekend against Real Betis at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Spain have now gone 29 games without defeat following a solid 2-0 win over England in last nights international friendly at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.
Valencias David Villa opened scoring in the first half before Athletic Bilbaos Fernando Llorente wrapped up the match safely with a late goal but it was the Los Che hit-man who continues winning all the plaudits.
He has now become the first ever Spanish player to score in six successive games with La Seleccion and he was understandably elated with the achievement.
I am very happy with the goal. Truth is, I really want to see it on TV, he said during the post-match interviews.
The record is very nice. I would never have imagined in years that I would be able to obtain it. I am very proud and I hope I can continue breaking records, he added.
El Guaje then went on to praise Spains other goalscorer on the night, Llorente, who in sharp contrast to Villa, netted his very first goal with La Roja: We cant be happier to have a player like him out there on the field.
He is a big lad and a great person who is doing brilliantly this season with his club, he concluded.
Villas goal now draws him levelled with Emilio Butragueno with 26 goals to become the countrys joint-fourth highest goalscorer.
Vicente del Bosque's side showed their hosts why they are the number one side in the world with patience and technique undoing Fabio Capello's team and ending the Three Lions' winning run.
The Spanish are now unbeaten in 29 matches and completed a hat-trick of victories against the English as they took two of their chances in a game that saw neither defence opened up often.
Capello may have been without Rio Ferdinand, Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney, but the gulf between the two teams was evident as it was Spain that were able to apply the pressure in around the area while their guests were not.
Spain's midfield creators, Xavi and Andrés Iniesta, thrived as Marcos Senna protected the back four behind them and Xabi Alonso calmed the game down with his intelligence.
On the other side, England's central players were unable to find the passes that would open up their hosts and that was a key difference between the two sides as they tested each other.
Defensive errors could be blamed for the goals, but Villa's skill and Alonso's vision created the first while Llorente proved that Del Bosque was right to choose him after he leant in unmarked to net the second.
It was the visitors that actually had the opening two chances of the game as Gabriel Agbonlahor volleyed wide and Gareth Barry headed wide from a corner and those chances came moments before Emile Heskey appeared to be fouled en route to goal, only to be ruled offside.
Iniesta and Xavi were playing the ball around superbly, but England's defence remained firm and were able to block two chances from Fernando Torres before Senna drove wide and Villa saw a goal ruled out.
In the 36th minute the deadlock was broken as Alonso's pass through the centre was controlled by Villa and he gave Phil Jagielka a harsh introduction to international football by slaloming past the defender before slotting the ball past David James.
Spain could have scored a second just before the break when Senna's long-ranger flew just wide before Alonso fired off target after Villa had seen his shot blocked in the area.
Spain may not have been aware as Beckham replaced Barry at the break, but the AC Milan midfielder drew level on 108 international appearances for England with Bobby Moore, with the pair now the most capped outfield players for the Three Lions.
The former Real Madrid playmaker helped England raise their game with his technique standing out from those around him, but his creativity was not used as Peter Crouch did little and Agbonlahor was anonymous.
At the other Sergio Ramos was in rampaging form down the right, but the Spanish were able to take their foot off the pedal slightly and defend their lead.
Despite that only Shaun Wright-Phillips and Frank Lampard could send efforts straight at Pepe Reina before the game was put beyond England's reach with a second goal for the hosts.
Xavi was this time the provider as he floated a free-kick towards the far post and Llorente sped forward to send a textbook header past Robert Green and into the net.
In the closing moments Carlton Cole could have marked his England debut with a goal after latching on to a Beckham pass and rounding Reina, only for Carlos Marchena to clear off the line.
It was a carnival atmosphere in Sevilla on an evening that went well on the pitch and any fears of racism rearing its ugly head were also unfounded as both sets of fans behaved impeccably off it.
Franck Ribery, the Bayern Munich star, has established himself as one of the most dangerous attackers in Europe since arriving in Germany from Olympique Marseille in 2007.
Real Madrid have stepped up their pursuit of the Frenchman over the past couple of weeks, presumably as an alternative to Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo.
But the 25-year-old recently declared that he would, at the very least, see out the remainder of his contract with Bayern, which runs until 2011.
However, should he decide to quit the Bundesliga sooner, the former Galatasaray player would have no trouble finding a new workplace - or so he reckons.
According to UK tabloid The Sun, Ribery said, "I have received offers from Barcelona, Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester City. I would just like to point out that at no point have I tried to force a move."
The likes of Liverpool and Man United have also been intermittently linked with Ribery over the past few seasons.
Lionel Messi continued to dazzle football fans all over the world after another sizzling display last night in an international friendly.
The nippy Argentine netted his countrys second goal in the 2-0 triumph over France in Marseille when he breezed past three defenders with ease before finishing with apl****.
Despite his contribution, he believes that he is still a long way from his best with Los Albicelestes.
With Argentina, I am still not at the level I am currently with Barcelona, but I hope to continue playing and give my best for the country, he said during the post-match press conference.
It was a great game and a very special win because they [France] have a very good team. Now that we have beaten the World Cup runners-up, I believe we have won the recognition we deserve, he added.
Messi, who received a standing ovation from the Stade Velodrome crowd at the end of the match, revealed some insights to the conversations coach, Diego Maradona had with his charges.
He did not say anything special to us. He congratulated us all on the victory and he said to us that this is the mentality we must have to continue growing.
We are all happy with this victory. The most important thing is that Argentina won but there were also moments when we played some good football, he concluded.
Welcome to Goal.com's greatest players of 2008 - the Goal.com 50!
A team of 25 Goal.com reporters representing leagues from: England's Premier to Spain's Liga; Italy's Series to Turkey's Super; Argentina's Apertura to Australia's A-League and beyond, all cracked our fingers, scratched our skulls, and banged our heads against brick walls devising a selection of stand-out performers deemed worthy of our votes.
Each journalist then went away and ranked the shortlist of 75 players in order of whom they believe were more deserving of the moniker: 'Greatest player of 2008'. Individual performances were noted from January to December 2008, as was team contribution, together with prizes and accolades awarded. The final lists were cut off at 50.
Once the results were in, the data was collated by adding together all of each footballer's corresponding ranks. So for example, if Ashley Young was positioned at 38 on one reporter's list, and ranked 49 on another, his total for the two would be 87.
However, if a player was completely omitted from a received shortlist, then he would be assigned penalty points. The winner, therefore, would be the player who had the lowest overall score.
Every day we will be updating this page with two new entrants, but for now:
Chelsea and England captain John Terry has admitted that he was extremely surprised by the sacking of his club coach Luiz Felipe Scolari.Speaking to a news conference ahead of England's friendly against Spain in Seville on Wednesday Terry said: "I was very shocked by what's happened. He had my full support that's for sure and I'm sure two or three of the other players would say the same," the England captain added.
"He's a great man but we weren't playing well and that unfortunately falls on his head. Maybe it should have fallen more on us the players."
Terry admitted Chelsea have not been performing well recently, either individually or as a team, saying: "That falls on the manager's head which is unfair. At end of the day it's all about results and unfortunately for Scolari they didn't come."
Chelsea have been given permission to talk to Russia coach Guus Hiddink about taking over at Stamford Bridge and Terry noted the Dutchman's close relationship with the club's billionaire Russian owner Roman Abramovich.
"I don't know too much about him (Hiddink), we'll have to wait and see," he said, adding that he wanted to concentrate on the Spain match on Wednesday before commenting in more detail about the situation at Chelsea.
''What's happening back home is at the back of my mind but I am focusing on the game ahead,'' said Terry. ''It is a bit of a relief to get away for a couple of days because my main concern should now be England.
''The manager (Fabio Capello) has stressed he wants everyone focused on the game ahead. I want to put in a good performance personally and hopefully the squad can do the same.''
Such is Capello's high regard for Terry, he did not need to pull him to one side this morning. However, as speculation continues to swirl around Chelsea, the Italian thought it was better to re-assure himself.
''We spoke but I am sure John Terry will be okay because the England shirt is very important to him,'' said Capello. ''He is the captain and his position is important.''
As manager of one of the biggest national teams, Capello finds it difficult to believe he could c****ine it with a top club job as Hiddink would have to do.
He is certainly glad the decision is not his to make, because the answer would be no.
''It is not my problem,'' he sighed. ''I know he did it before with Australia and PSV. I prefer to think about one job, not two.''
Clearly Hiddink does not believe it is impossible. But Capello feels you require contrasting character traits to excel in each position, highlighting the obvious differences between management at club and international level.
''They are two completely different jobs,'' said the Italian. ''As a club manager you coach every day and you can change the style in a very short space of time. You can speak with the players about problems.
''With the national team it is different. I meet the players every 45 days. If you want to change a lot of things, you only have a very short time to work. In that situation, the character of the coach is very important.''
Sven-Goran Eriksson has denied he is set to become Portsmouth boss and has reiterated his desire to stay as Mexico manager until after the 2010 World Cup.
The ex-England boss is preparing for a World Cup qualifier tie against the United States in Columbus on Wednesday.
"I am very happy where I am. It's always nice to be mentioned but there is nothing," insisted Eriksson.
"I have a contract with Mexico until 2010. We will qualify and we will do everything we can do to win."
After Tony Adams was sacked as Portsmouth manager on Monday, Eriksson has been strongly linked with the post - along with ex-Chelsea boss Avram Grant and former boss of Charlton and West Ham Alan Curbishley.
"It's always like that when a manager leaves a club for whatever reason - if he leaves or if he is sacked," Eriksson said of the rumours circulating following Adams' departure. "I'm not the only manager being mentioned in this story."
Other people in the frame for the Fratton Park role include Croatia coach Slaven Bilic, ex-Sunderland boss Roy Keane and former England managers Terry Venables and Glenn Hoddle.
Portsmouth are 16th in the Premier League table - two places and one point above the relegation zone - and Paul Hart has been put in charge of the first team, starting with Saturday's home game against Manchester City.
Commenting on the club's temporary boss, Pompey chief executive Peter Storrie told the club website: "Paul's a strong character and at the moment I think it needs a strong character.
"The players will give him respect for as long as he's doing it. He's a good guy. He jumped at the chance to do it and I'm sure you'll see quite a steadying hand.
"What we need to do is gel together, work as one, cut out the mistakes and just get going and get a couple of results. We really must do everything we can to make sure we stay in the Premier League."
Eriksson led England at the 2006 World Cup and a year later the 61-year-old Swede took over as Manchester City boss before his Mexico appointment in June 2008.
Eriksson added: "I always said I have a contract until 2010, after the World Cup. In football, you never know what will happen but I have a contract and I want to win on Wednesday.
"I have always said that Mexico will be in South Africa. It's very important to start winning but I don't think that my future depends on getting a good result tomorrow, life will go on.
"If we lose, we will have nine more games to qualify to the World Cup but I repeat: I'm not thinking about a defeat."
In the $15 million action filed in Brooklyn Federal court, Ilya Dall, of Queens, said the ballplayer tested positive for HIV in 2006 and a doctor later told him he had AIDS.
Dall said she tested negative for the disease but is claiming punitive damages for emotional distress. She also claims her children were exposed to the virus.
Alomar, 41, a 12-time All Star, who retired from baseball in 2005, began dating Dall in 2002, and began having unprotected sex with her a short time later, according to the suit.
Her suit does not claim that he knew he had AIDS when they were having unprotected sex but he had reason to think he might because his doctors kept advising him to be tested. He procrastinated and told her he was disease free, the suit says. In 2004, she said, she noticed he had cold sores. The following year he was diagnosed with a *lo** disorder that's linked to AIDS, the suit says.
Also in 2005, Alomar told Dall that when he once was raped by two Mexican men after playing a ballgame in New Mexico, according to the suit.
Other symptoms began to develop, she says, including erectile dysfunction, a chronic cough, and fatigue.
A doctor insisted that the longtime second baseman take an HIV test, but Alomar continually refused, the suit charges.
In January 2006, the suit alleges, he finally got tested and it was positive. Nine days later, doctors discovered a mass in his chest, and a spinal tap revealed that he had full blown AIDS.
Alomar's two seasons with the Mets were considered disappointing, but he is considered a possible Hall of Fame candidate and may be elected when he becomes eligible next year.
But he will forever be remembered for an ugly incident in 1996 when, as a member of the Baltimore Orioles, he spat in the face of umpire John Hirschback during an argument over a called third strike.
He was suspended for five games. At the time there were allegation that the ump used a slur against Alomar, but that was never proven.
Alomar's father, Sandy, is the Mets bench coach. His brother, Sandy Jr., is a Met instructor.
Portsmouth have appointed former Manchester United assistant Brian Kidd to assist caretaker manager Paul Hart.
The 59-year-old will work alongside Hart while Pompey continue their search for a new manager after Tony Adams was sacked on Monday.
"Brian is a fantastic coach with a great track record," Hart told the club's website.
"We have known each other for an awfully long time and I'm delighted he's coming here to assist me."
Adams was dismissed along with first-team coach John Metgod after winning just two of 16 Premier League games since taking over on 28 October.
Dutchman Metgod has accused the club of not giving the coaching staff a chance to show what they are capable of at Fratton Park and believes they weren't helped by the departures of key players in January.
"For three months I worked well at Portsmouth," he said. "We often put on good performances
"The personal situation of club owner Alexandre Gaydamak played an important role. The financial crisis meant he was having problems and therefore sold players for millions.
"In the Premier League no other club has given up as much quality as Portsmouth. We were a ticking time b****."
He added: "Adams is an excellent coach, I got on really well with him and as a craftsman I have him high in my mind.
"If there is a chance, I want to work with him again - in England or Holland."
Kidd started his managerial career at Preston before moving to United as youth team coach under Sir Alex Ferguson.
In 1991 he became Ferguson's assistant at Old Trafford, helping the club win four Premier League titles and two FA Cup's, before a brief spell in charge of Blackburn Rovers.
He later spent over a year as Sven-Goran Eriksson's assistant with England and also worked under Neil Warnock and Bryan Robson at Sheffield United.
Any reunion with Eriksson, however, is unlikely after the Swede played down reports linking him with the vacant position, insisting he is happy with his role in charge of the Mexican national team.
Portsmouth have said that Kidd's position will be reviewed when a new manager is appointed.
Christian Panucci seemed to be on his way out of Roma during the winter transfer window after refusing to sit on the bench any longer, however, against the odds, he has remained with the Giallorossi.
The defender made a public apology to the club but this appeared to make little difference to his position. He has been excluded from the Champions League squad and was not called into the team for last week's 3-0 victory over Genoa.
According to Calciomercato, the 35-year-old was seen in good spirits when speaking to coach Luciano Spalletti during Wednesday's training session and is likely to be included in the squad travelling to Bergamo.
The Roma rearguard must do without Marco Cassetti, John Arne Riise and Cicinho, who are all out with injury, so Panucci's presence in the squad would be a logical move.
Panucci has not played in a match for Roma since the 3-2 win over Cagliari on December 14, 2008.
In an intense and entertaining match, Javad Nekounam looked to have done enough to put Iran on top of Group Two at the halfway stage only for the Manchester United man to earn a deserved draw for the Taeguk Warriors.
The point keeps South Korea on top of Group Two with eight points. North Korea, who defeated Saudi Arabia earlier in the day, are second with seven while Iran now have six points and are third.
Iran started brightly and Nekounam should perhaps have given the hosts an early lead in the seventh minute but the Osasuna midfielder headed a left-sided corner over the bar.
Jung Sung-hoon returned the favour ten minutes later, failing to take the opportunity to open his account for the Korean national team.
Team Melli had a big penalty shout turned down in the 25th minute.
Vahid Hashemian worked hard in the right corner to send a ball into the box. Hossein Kazemi nipped in front of Cho Yong Hyong and looked to have been brought down by the Jeju defender but the Australian referee waved play on, much to the displeasure of the home fans.
After creating next to nothing in the early exchanges, Korea controlled the last 15 minutes of the first period and had a great chance to take the lead even minutes before the break.
Ki Sung-yungs set pieces were causing problems and a left-sided corner kick found its way to Kang Min-soo at the far post but the lanky defender skied his shot over the bar.
The impressive Ki was in the thick of the action. His decision to go for goal from a free-kick 40 yards out surprised Seyed Rahmati and the Iranian goalkeeper could only parry a fierce shot out for a corner.
Rahmati was becoming busy and had to be alert and agile to block a fierce shot from Yeom Ki-hoon, introduced to replace the injured Jung, that looked destined for the far corner.
After a quite start to the second half, Iran broke the deadlock in fine style just before the hour. Nekounam curled a perfect free-kick over the Korean wall and into the top corner of the net to give Lee Woon-jae no chance.
The fans were still celebrating as Korea missed a glorious opportunity to go level. Oh Beom-seok got behind the Iranian backline to float over a perfect cross from the right only for Lee Keun-ho to send his powerful header onto the crossbar.
The equalizer came with nine minutes remaining. Ki tried to emulate Nekounams free-kick accuracy only for Mahmati to block the shot.
Fortunately for the visitors, Park was on hand to head the rebound home from close range to silence over 70,000 fans at the Azadi Stadium.
One of the most mercurial and enigmatic characters in the game during his playing days, Argentine legend Diego Maradona sensationally admitted yesterday that he had signed a contract in 1989 with Olympique de Marseille, which should have seen him join the French club from Napoli.
I was a Marseille player, he declared on Monday, reports Ligue 1s official website. Napoli president Corrado Ferlaino didn't want me to leave, but I had signed a contract with [then Marseille president] Bernard Tapie.
Tapie continues the story. It wasn't just Maradona that had signed, but Mr. Ferlaino, the Napoli president had signed as well, revealed the controversial former OM boss. I had the player and the Club's official accords.
The negotiations were leaked and Ferlaino asked me to go back on the transfer. I had all the signatures but I decided to let it go.
The transfer fee was FF60 million, the equivalent of less than 10m today. It really was a great deal, a bargain.
Since we couldn't have Maradona, we signed Chris Waddle for FF45m [less than 7m].
These revelations are startling as it was previously believed that Maradona, who wanted away from the pressures of Italian football at that time, only found out about Marseilles interest in him when he read in a newspaper that an emissary from the French club had been in Naples to discuss a transfer.
Now coach of the Argentine national football team, for which he starred nearly 100 times as a player, Maradona leads his country in action in the Mediterranean port he nearly called home 20 years ago.
England and Chelsea captain John Terry has spoken out of his fears that Fernando Torres will terrorise the English defence like he has been doing to club rearguards in the Premier League since he first arrived from Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2007.
Torres scored 33 goals in his rookie season in the top English league, and is starting to return to form after being sidelined through injury this campaign.
'El Nino' even boasts a good record against Chelsea, having struck three goals against the Blues. On 18 August 2007 Torres netted his first ever goal in Liverpool's red colours at Anfield against the Stamford Bridge outfit, and recently bagged a last-gasp brace against the struggling west Londoners, again at Anfield.
Terry has today admitted that he is hoping the tradition of scoring against his side does not translate to the international scene, and is quoted by Liverpool's official website as saying:
"He's only just coming back from his injury but he's looked so sharp and is scoring goals.
"It's frightening to think what he'll be like when he hits full fitness, hitting the form he did last year and getting even more goals than last season," Terry said. "He's World class," he added.
"Spain are a top side with some fantastic players, some I really admire like Xavi, Torres, David Villa."
England play Spain in Seville this evening in a game that kicks-off at 21:00 GMT.
The anti-racism group 'Everyone' is calling for Inter coach Jose Mourinho to back off striker Mario Balotelli and treat him better, as they believe that punishment levied to the player is fuelling racism websites to turn against the Italian-born player.
The group hopes the Nerazzurri and Italy under-21 national team help support Balotelli rather than blast him for his recent behaviour.
La Repubblica reports that a large number of far-right websites have heckled the player and it is believed he has been suffering in silence, and this has been reflected in his behaviour.
Roberto Malini, Matteo Pegoraro and Dario Picciau, who lead the human rights organisation have told the player's coaches to keep calm rather than show him the boot.
"It's important that Jose Mourinho and Pierluigi Casiraghi create a serene environment for the player," Malini told La Repubblica.
"They shouldn't direct their heavy criticisms of Balotelli via the media because these are then used as weapons by the intolerant [racists].
"It's sad to see a young talent like Balotelli living in a society which is filled with racial hatred. It's fundamental that he is protected.
"Balotelli's own words prove he is courageous and dignified and an example against the intolerance of new generations who never received the right education in terms of racial tolerance and brotherhood amongst the society.
"Our group is proposing that Balotelli is named as an ambassador against Racism to the United Nations and European Union like Rio Ferdinand from England."
Balotelli looks set to feature against Sweden in the under-21 friendly later tonight, despite missing his appointment with the Azzurrini on Monday.
