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Lauren James’s red card against Nigeria was just pure frustration. I don’t think anyone in an England shirt could get her into the game and you could see the exasperation building up for a few players.
It was disappointing, but Lauren will learn from it. As a young player, she will take a lot from this situation and I just hope people let it go.
You can’t condone it, because no one can do that on the pitch, but we all make mistakes. No one is perfect. Football is an emotional game and her emotion just got the better of her.
But we can’t all cling on to it. We have to let it go — and so do England. Colombia will not be an easy game and, like Nigeria, it is one of those matches where you just need to ignore the world rankings.
Nigeria were better than England in every department. They were excellent in stopping us and I think Sarina Wiegman needs to freshen up her team on Saturday.
I thought some players looked a little bit tired and leggy on Monday, and Ella Toone is one of those I would bring back into the side.
Beth England is another I would start, up top instead of Alessia Russo, and I would have Chloe Kelly out wide with Lauren Hemp.
It might be best for England to revert back to what they know with the formation and play with a back four instead of a three.
That’s how the Lionesses started against Haiti and this Colombia game could well be similar.
England need to take the game to Colombia and try to impose themselves, press high and put pressure on their backline. They cannot afford to sit back.
England need to make sure they have some impact players from the bench, which is why it is not bad having Alessia there.
I thought before the Nigeria game it might be best not to start Lauren, and people looked at me like I was crazy. But I just felt it wasn’t a bad idea, simply because the Lionesses need substitutes who can make a difference.
You need players who can come on and hurt teams in those final 20 minutes, and that will be the case on Saturday
[Evening Standard]
Former WNBA superstar Liz Cambage is changing her tune a bit after video emerged of a scrimmage against Nigeria where she allegedly called players “monkeys.”
Cambage, a four-time All-Star, has been out of the WNBA for a year following a dispute with her LA Sparks players and coaches.
Around that time, news emerged of the now infamous scrimmage which took place prior to the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
Cambage was set to play for her native Australia, but left the team prior to the tournament after citing mental health reasons.
In a recent interview with Taylor Rooks of Bleacher Report, the 6-foot-9 center said that the alleged events didn’t happen.
“I don’t really lean towards racially backed insults,” she continued. “That’s not how I go. I’m very pro-Black. I did not say these [things] to these girls. The truth looks a lot worse for other organizations involved, than using me as a scapegoat.”
She also claimed she was joining the Nigerian national team.
“Why does Nigeria want me to leave Australia and go and represent them?” said Cambage, whose father is Nigerian.
“We’re filing for me to leave the Australian national team so I can represent Nigeria,” she continued. “I’ve been in cahoots. I’ve been talking with them since all of this happened. This is what I mean. People don’t know the truth.”
But that all changed on Tuesday night when footage emerged from the pre-Olympics scrimmage.
Cambage throws an elbow at one player while slapping another in the video.
She issued a statement shortly after it released.
“The circulating video portrays a highly physical game with no officiating, resulting in me being attacked and sustaining a concussion,” she said. “Contrary to false claims I did not use racial slurs or refer to anyone as a monkey, which is evident from the footage.”
She also walked back comments about joining the Nigerian national team.
“To set the record straight, I never stated that I had officially joined the Nigerian national team,” Cambage said. “Instead, I expressed my interest in joining the team and representing Nigeria. I had discussions with staff members about the necessary steps to become eligible, and thought I was doing them. I extend my best wishes to all players on D’Tigress.”
This certainly has the feel of a saga that is far from over.
[brobible]
Real Madrid Eyes Goalkeeper Transfer to Mitigate Courtois’s Absence
Real Madrid, one of the most iconic football clubs in the world, is gearing up to make a significant move in the transfer market as they seek to bolster their squad by bringing in a new goalkeeper. The Spanish giants are strategically looking to cover the anticipated absence of their star shot-stopper, Thibaut Courtois. This development has been confirmed by reliable sources, including renowned football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
In-Depth Analysis:
The news of Real Madrid’s intent to secure a new goalkeeper has sent ripples through the football community. Thibaut Courtois, a pivotal figure in the team’s defensive setup, is expected to be sidelined due to various circumstances. To ensure the stability and competitiveness of the squad, Real Madrid’s management has taken a proactive approach to identify and acquire a suitable replacement.
While Courtois’s absence will undoubtedly leave a void, Real Madrid’s determination to maintain their position as a football powerhouse remains unshaken. The club’s track record of success, both domestically and on the international stage, demands that they have a contingency plan in place for such situations.
Strategic Move:
Real Madrid’s pursuit of a new goalkeeper is not merely a reactionary measure but rather a calculated move to sustain their performance levels. The club’s management, known for their astute decision-making, is expected to evaluate potential candidates meticulously before finalizing any deal. The chosen goalkeeper will not only need to possess exceptional skills and reflexes but also integrate seamlessly into the team’s tactical approach.
Source Confirmation:
The credibility of this news is reinforced by the confirmation from Fabrizio Romano, a trusted insider in the football transfer market. Romano’s accurate track record of reporting such developments adds weight to the information. Real Madrid fans and football enthusiasts can rest assured that the pursuit of a new goalkeeper is grounded in authentic sources.
As Real Madrid prepares to enter the transfer market in search of a new goalkeeper, the football world watches with keen interest. The club’s commitment to upholding their legacy and maintaining their competitive edge is evident in their proactive approach to the situation. With Fabrizio Romano’s confirmation lending credence to the news, fans can anticipate an exciting period of speculation and anticipation as Real Madrid works towards securing a capable replacement to cover Courtois’s absence.
[allmedia24]
England forward Lauren James has been hit with a two-match ban after her red card against Nigeria.
James was sent off in the last-16 Women’s World Cup tie after stamping on the back of Nigeria forward Michelle Alozie.
The red card meant the 21-year-old was automatically suspended for one game, but that has been increased to two matches.
It means the Chelsea forward would miss the semi-finals if England beat Colombia on Saturday - but she would be back for the final or third-placed play-off.
The news is a huge boost to the Lionesses as James has been one of their best players at this tournament, scoring three goals and laying on the same number of assists.
“All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened,” James tweeted after her red card.
“Also, for our England fans and my team-mates, playing with and for you is my greatest honour and I promise to learn from my experience.”
[standard]
Another day, another impressive Yard Sale collab.
This time the slice specialists have teamed up with Chuku’s – the world’s first Nigerian tapas restaurant – to create a limited edition ‘Lagos Heat’ pizza.
The Tottenham restaurant has used classic West African flavours with smoked lamb asun – using the spicy flavours of ginger, garlic, red onion, coriander and scotch bonnet – as well as sweet fried plantain on top of the pizza. That all comes with a jollof stew base combined with Yard Sale’s own house tomato sauce, and then a smattering of fior di latte mozzarella to seal the delicious deal.
We are extremely ready.
Siblings Emeka and Ifeyinwa Frederick opened Chuku’s first bricks-and-mortar restaurant in 2020. ‘We’re always super excited to see the flavours of the much-celebrated jollof stew reach a wider audience,’ said Emeka of the pizza, which is available for takeaway, delivery and dine-in from August 16-30 at Yard Sale’s recently-opened Tottenham and Walthamstow locations only.
‘Coupled with sweet-tasting fried plantain, it is an iconic Nigerian flavour pairing. And our lamb asun adds that more-ish kick. We hope for those familiar with Nigerian food they’ll love our Nigerian spin on a pizza and for those new to Nigerian flavours, we hope that it’ll spark their curiosity to explore the cuisine even further.’
In a lovely turn of events, it transpires that Ifeyinwa used to work for Yard Sale. ‘Back in 2017 when Chuku’s was still a pop-up, I took a job at Yard Sale in 2017 to learn more about the hospitality industry. And I learnt a lot there about what good management looks like and how to create a positive work environment – things that I took forward into Chuku’s. At the time, I would tell my Yard Sale General Manager about the pop-up I was running and the dreams we had of opening our first permanent site.’
It’s been a good summer for Chuku’s, who were recently awarded an £8,000 grant from Beyoncé’s charity foundation BeyGOOD during her run of shows at nearby Tottenham Stadium.
[timeout]
Juventus fans on Wednesday, August 9, stormed the pitch during a training match against Juventus Next Gen and chanted 'we don't want Lukaku' in protest against the club signing the Belgian striker.
The Italian fans do not want the club to do a part-exchange deal that will see striker Dusan Vlahovic move to Chelsea while Lukaku move the other way.
Juventus' fans consistently applauded Vlahovic during the game, which the senior team won 8-0.
It comes after the Curva Sud ultra group unfurled a banner telling Lukaku to stay away, which read: 'Lukaku stay in Milan, we already have a second goalkeeper'.
The mocking message refers to the Champions League final, when Lukaku accidentally blocked Roberto Dimarco's goalbound effort in their 1-0 defeat to Inter Milan.
Fans began the anti-Lukaku chants within the first minute of the game, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Chelsea rejected a £26million bid from Inter for the wantaway 30-year-old earlier this summer and Todd Boehly wants in the region of £40m.
He was on loan at the Milanese giants last year but the Blues are adamant he will not go out on loan again, even if they don't want him themselves.
Lukaku is understood to be open to Juventus, forcing Inter to pull out of trying to sign him after hearing that talks were being held between Chelsea and the Old Lady.
He was reportedly unhappy that the Nerazzuri left him out of the starting line-up for the Champions League final and so snubbed them this summer after scoring 14 goals in 37 games for them.
Chelsea were willing to table a £38.5m bid plus Lukaku for Juventus' Vlahovic.
EPL: It’ll create bad atmosphere – Peter Schmeichel criticizes Arteta over incoming Arsenal star
Editor 1Manchester United legend, Peter Schmeichel has criticised Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta’s decision to sign Brentford goalkeeper, David Raya for the Gunners.
Raya is due to undergo a medical with Arsenal on Thursday after Premier League North London club agreed a £30million deal with Brentford earlier this week.
The Spaniard will join Arsenal on an initial loan deal worth £3million, while Arsenal have the option to make the move permanent next summer for £27million.
Raya will now compete with Aaron Ramsdale to become Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper this season, while Arteta has already made it clear that he wants competition for places in all areas of his squad including the goalkeeping department.
But Schmeichel believes Arteta’s decision to have two strong goalkeepers in his squad could create a ‘bad atmosphere’ in the dressing room.
I absolutely do not get it, Schmeichel told BBC Radio 5 Live.
I cannot understand how a manager can come to the conclusion that it is a great thing to have competition for the number one shirt.
A goalkeeper’s position is very reactive. You cannot create anything on your own, you have to wait for things to happen.
You are now asking your goalkeeper to prove you are better than the other one. That means you now have to go and do stuff, and you don’t want that. It is the one position on the pitch where you just want steady.
When you have a competition situation he also plays that game for himself and for that position, and I don’t get it.
What you do is you put a lot of insecurity into the two of them.
He said, At the same time, having two challenging for number one, you are also creating potentially a bad atmosphere in the dressing room because it is a straight up competition between two guys who will either start or not play.
KAA Gent manager, Hein Vanhaezebrouck has showered encomium on Gift Orban following the forward’s remarkable display in Wednesday night’s UEFA Europa Conference League clash against Polish club Pogon Szczecin.
Orban, 21, grabbed a hat-trick in the 5-0 victory.
The Nigerian has hit the ground running this season following a remarkable campaign last term.
The young striker has already registered four goals for the Buffalos this season.
Vanhaezebrouck singled out Orban for praise after the game.
He’s a phenomenon and he will continue to be a phenomenon. I’ve said it five times and I’ll keep saying it,
he told reporters after the game.
Even if he is no longer here, he will remain a phenomenon, and I will continue to say that. He is 21 and remains a young guy.
His hat-trick? That is nothing special in itself anymore, is it?
2023 WWC: Super Falcons defender, Ashleigh Plumptre breaks silence days after Nigeria’s elimination
Editor 1Nigerian defender, Ashleigh Plumptre has insisted that she is proud to be a member of the Super Falcons.
Plumptre spoke a few days after the Super Falcons’ elimination from the ongoing 2023 FIFA World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Recall that Nigeria crashed out of the FIFA Women’s World Cup after losing 4-2 to England via a penalty shootout
The Round of 16 tie had ended in a 0-0 draw after 120 minutes.
In a tweet via her Twitter handle Plumptre wrote, Incredibly grateful for the opportunity to go deeper into my own identity, learn more about what it means to have Naija spirit and to showcase to the world what a unified, determined and empowered group of women are capable of achieving. Proud to be a Super Falcon.
Plumptre, 25, featured in Nigeria’s four games against Australia, the Republic of Ireland, Canada and England.
She is a free agent after leaving Leicester City at the end of last season
Brazilian superstar, Neymar has reportedly been told that he can leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer.
The former Barcelona forward is one of five players who were informed that they are not needed, during meetings with manager Luis Enrique and sporting director Luis Campos.
It comes following reports earlier this week that the 31-year-old had told the club's management of his own desire to leave the club.
French publication RMC Sport now claims that Neymar, Marco Verratti, Hugo Ekitike, Juan Bernat, and Renato Sanches were told they are 'not part of PSG's project and should find a solution elsewhere'.
Neymar and Verratti have been absent from training for the last two days along with Kylian Mbappe. They were also not invited to the club's team photo day.
Bernat, Ekitike, Sanches were also not part of the team photo day though a second round of official photos is planned for the end of the transfer window, should any of those players end up staying at the club.
The Brazil international had grown increasingly unhappy at the French giants, with reports suggesting he was determined to seal a return to Barcelona this summer.
Back in May, angry PSG fans gathered outside his Paris home to demand that he leave, prompting the club to release a statement condemning the actions of their supporters.
The incident is said to have influenced Neymar's decision to leave the club, with the forward reportedly feeling that he is 'exposed' in Paris in a way that he never had been during his time at Barcelona.
More...
FC Barcelona’s Ousmane Dembélé Set to Join Paris Saint-Germain: Deal Confirmed by Director Alemany
AdminIn a surprising turn of events, FC Barcelona’s winger Ousmane Dembélé is poised to make a move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), as confirmed by Barcelona’s director Mateu Alemany. The deal, which has been in the works behind the scenes, is now in its final stages and is expected to be officially announced later this week. This announcement comes as a significant development in the world of football, with fans and experts alike eager to witness the effects of this transfer.
The news broke via well-known transfer market insider Fabrizio Romano, who reported Alemany’s statement regarding Dembélé’s impending move to the French capital. According to Romano, Alemany stated, “Ousmane Dembélé is on his way to Paris. The deal is done, we just have to sign all documents.” This has set the football community abuzz with speculations about the terms of the transfer and the impact it will have on both clubs.
Dembélé, known for his pace, skill, and versatility on the field, joined FC Barcelona in 2017 from Borussia Dortmund. However, his time with the Catalan club has been marred by injuries, which limited his playing time and potential contributions. Despite flashes of brilliance, his inconsistent performances and fitness concerns seemed to have contributed to this decision.
On the other hand, Paris Saint-Germain, currently one of the football powerhouses in Europe, is making significant moves in the transfer market to strengthen its squad. Dembélé’s potential addition could provide PSG with added attacking depth and a different tactical dimension. With stars like Lionel Messi and Neymar already in their ranks, Dembélé’s arrival could further bolster the Parisian club’s offensive prowess.
While the financial details of the transfer remain undisclosed, it is expected that both clubs have negotiated terms that benefit their respective interests. The move will undoubtedly have ripple effects across the football landscape, impacting player dynamics, team strategies, and league competitions.
The impending official announcement of Ousmane Dembélé’s transfer from FC Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain marks a significant turning point for both the player and the clubs involved. Football enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting more details about the deal, which could reshape the balance of power in the European football scene for the upcoming season.
Source: Fabrizio Romano
Victor Osimhen did not train with his teammates on Wednesday as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury.
Osimhen sprained his ankle during a practice match on Tuesday.
The Partenopei announced that the 24-year-old received treatment for the injury.
“Anguissa did therapy and personalized training at the gym. Therapies for Osimhen, “reads a statement on the club’s official website.
The Serie A champions will hope that the striker shakes off the injury before the start of the new season.
Napoli will travel to Frosinone for their opening game of the season on August 17.
[DailyPost]
As someone who doesn’t watch Love Island, it’s been a pretty quiet summer for my TV. Since the Women’s World Cup started in July, my TV has been on when I should be asleep, but it’s been worth it as I’ve been watching and following, supporting the Super Falcons, whilst having a soft spot for Colombia and USA (who I got in the sweepstake, so fingers crossed). For the first time in memory, it feels like the women’s game is breaking out of its bubble, and fans, like myself who aren’t completely familiar with the women’s game, are able to enjoy it because of the investment and visibility it’s been granted. Whether it’s on the pitch or off it, there’s so much happening that’s so exciting to see, and I’ve never been more invested.
Here are some of the moments from this World Cup, that shows how the game is growing (WITHOUT the ‘help’ of the men’s game, which it certainly doesn’t need) and the things that I’ve been excited to see.
Martine Rose x Nike USWNT and England Women’s
If you haven’t already seen the incredible collection, where have you been?
British-Jamaican menswear designer Martine Rose recently released an extensive collection, kitting out the USWNT and the Lionesses in her iconic style that blends her love for fashion and sport. In a move facilitated by Nike, sponsor of both national teams, the gender-free suits are complemented by glasses and also a range of colourways of her take on the Nike Shox MR4.
Both teams started off their campaigns with wins and have progressed through to the knockouts. They certainly both looked like winners as they entered the stadium, thanks to Rose, who’s a frequent Nike collaborator.
Prada as official sponsor for the China Women’s Team
It’s great to see one of the largest fashion houses invest into the women’s game, having the Chinese ladies match England off the pitch (although they weren’t able to match them on it). There’s always a ‘chicken-and-egg’ argument surrounding the women’s game, brands hide behind the ‘lack’ of engagement to justify their lack of presence, whilst some argue that lack of engagement is a result of lack of brand presence.
Regardless of that debate, brands entering the space feels like a good thing, as they realise the sport is worth being a part of, and it certainly is, creating a more inclusive environment for football fans.
Linda Caicedo
The story of Linda Caicedo so far could serve as a movie itself…she’s only 18. After beating cancer at age 15, she’s played in three World Cups in the past 12 months - the u-17 and u-20 editions - and is setting this World Cup alight, shining bright in a strong Colombia team.
Whether or not this Colombia team goes far in the tournament, Linda Caicedo certainly will. After recently signing for Real Madrid, and seemingly able to overcome any adversity that throws itself her way, the sky really is the limit for the young forward and I’m excited to see how her career progresses over the next five, 10, fifteen years.
When life gives you lemons…
There are multiple stories of players and nations overcoming adversity this tournament. Take England goalkeeper Mary Earps, who’s been fighting to have the production of a replica of her jersey produced, only conceding one goal in the group stages, or the Reggae Girlz (Jamaica), who had to crowd fund to cover costs of their attendance to the tournament, beating Brazil to go through to the knockout stage. Additionally, the Super Falcons (Nigeria), have been fighting the same struggles as the Reggae Girlz, prior to their defeat Nigeria had drawn attention as they managed to qualify out of their group despite being the lowest ranked team in their group.
Close your eyes Germany fans, as their draw with South Korea, and loss to Colombia meant they were dumped out of the tournament, failing to make the knockout rounds although they were expected to do so comfortably, especially after beating Morrocco 6-0.
In the past few years, the women’s game has grown exponentially, and there’s nothing that suggests that growth will slow down. With the WSL due to start in October, your dose of women’s football will be back sooner rather than later, and it’s about time you tuned in. Better yet, have you ever considered going to watch your local club? It’s certainly an occasion worth attending.
England's ability to find a way to win during the Women's World Cup has only added to the squad's belief, Lucy Bronze has said.
The Lionesses edged past Nigeria on penalties in the last 16 and have coped with the loss of key players during matches.
And Bronze believes that Sarina Wiegman's players have built confidence thanks to the tests they've overcome.
"We're the ones who are still in the competition," Bronze said.
"There are many top teams who are going home because they haven't been able to get that win or been able to see the games out - and we have.
"We've shown that side of our team and that we know what it takes to win. We have our mentality.
"The belief is huge."
England, who face Colombia in the quarter-finals on Saturday at 11:30 BST, are favourites to win the Women's World Cup for the first time after back-to-back champions the USA, Euro 2022 finalists Germany, Olympic gold medallists Canada and South American champions Brazil were all knocked out.
But it has not been an entirely smooth passage for the European champions - midfielder Keira Walsh suffered an injury in the win over Denmark, before forward Lauren James was sent off in the victory against Nigeria.
The red card left Wiegman's side a player short for more than half an hour but they managed to hang on at 0-0 through extra time to take the game to penalties.
"We're quite a confident team anyway," defender Bronze said.
"We had belief in extra time and during the penalties. We know our strengths, we know what we're capable of and we showed that to the world.
"We can give more. We're a fantastic team with highly talented players but the important thing is we got through to the next round.
"There's no point playing our best performances in the first games. We might as well save them for the quarter-finals or further than that.
"We've taken something from every game - whether that was the Haiti game that was physical, the Denmark game when we lost our key player [Walsh], the China game where we changed formation completely, and against Nigeria we had a red card.
"Everything that has been thrown at us, we've dealt with. I don't see many other teams who have had that adversity.
"If they have, I don't think they have managed to overcome it in the way we have."
Walsh relieved at rapid recovery
England were boosted by the news that Walsh's knee injury was not as bad as first thought, and she played 120 minutes in the last-16 win against Nigeria.
There had initially been concerns the midfielder had suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury but a subsequent scan allayed such fears.
"Obviously a lot of high profile players have them [ACL] so it's in the media a lot," Walsh told BBC Sport. "When I went down, I wasn't too worried about my ACL. Everyone in the media was but straight away I knew it wasn't; it was a different pain.
"In these tournaments, you know one injury and you could miss the rest of the games, but England have such a good medical team and turn it around quickly, and luckily I was back on the pitch after 10 days."
Following her sending off, James - who has three goals for England at the Women's World Cup so far - apologised, saying she would learn from the experience.
The forward was sent off against Nigeria following a VAR review for stamping on Michelle Alozie's back.
"She's disappointed," Walsh added. "She made a mistake but she apologised to team after the game and apologised on social media to the girl.
"It was really out of character for her. We were all surprised. We've got to get round her best we can and support her."
On her absence from the quarter-final against Colombia, Walsh added: "She's a massive loss. You can see she has massive moments in her and can change the game at a switch.
"But there are 22 players now and we have to focus on that. We have to focus on Colombia with the team we've got."
[BBC]