Ex-Arsenal chief uses power of football in prison to cut re-offending rates

London (AFP) – Former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein has unveiled an ambitious plan to use the power of football in prison to tackle the major problem of re-offending, convinced the sport can have a positive impact.

The 75-year-old Englishman — responsible for bringing the then little-known Arsene Wenger to the Premier League — said he had “played a whole pack of aces” to bring the Twinning Project to fruition.

Dein has brought together the government, the prison and probation services as well as the Premier League and the Football Association for the programme, which will deliver coaching and other qualifications aimed at boosting employment chances.

Professional clubs would provide two coaches, or other club staff, twice a week, with 16 offenders taking part in 12-week courses. Four courses would be run annually.

Dein — who hopes clubs all over the country will twin with their local prisons — and Jason Swettenham of the prison service, have 20 prisons signed up for a December launch.

Dein said he knew something had to be done to alleviate prisoners’ boredom, with the ultimate aim of reducing the rate of re-offending. Nearly 64 percent of adults commit another crime within 12 months of their release.

England and Wales had a prison population of more than 83,000 at the end of May 2018, with soaring rates of self-harm and dozens of suicides.

“I think really the penny dropped when I went into the prisons and I really saw what was going on there,” Dein said at the launch at Wembley on Wednesday, attended by about 400 people including the Minister for Prisons Rory Stewart, Wenger, other football luminaries and several prison governors.

“The prisoners have a very low level of self-esteem. Going inside a prison is an enlightening experience, they are not pleasant places.”

– ‘Crying almost every night’ –

Dein, who has visited and given talks in 106 prisons, decided he should take the bull by the horns. 

“If we aren’t going to do it, who is going to do it?” he asked.

“I remember with the drive to get the EPL (English Premier League) going, as football was going down the drain in the 1980s, it was the same feeling of who is going to do it.

“It takes somebody to really grasp it to change society, to stop these guys re-offending and sport can do that.”

Swettenham — who began his career as a prison officer — said the programme will also have a positive impact on daily life behind bars.

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VAR to be used in CAF Champions League final for first time

Johannesburg (AFP) – Video assistant referees (VAR) will be used in the CAF Champions League final for the first time Friday when Al Ahly of Egypt host Esperance of Tunisia in the first leg.

The system allows off-field referees to assist match officials regarding goals, penalty and straight red card decisions, and mistaken identity when awarding red and yellow cards.

VAR has been used once before in Africa, for the 2018 CAF Super Cup match between Wydad Casablanca of Morocco and TP Mazembe of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

While VAR has been both lauded and loathed by footballers and officials, its use at the World Cup in Russia this year was considered “largely successful” by FIFA.

“We used it for the Super Cup last February without any hitches and are delighted to go a step further,” CAF general secretary Amr Fahmy said.

“This is another historic moment for African football. CAF is determined to use the latest innovative technologies available.”

Record eight-time champions Ahly and twice trophy-holders Esperance have met 16 times at various stages of the Champions League, starting with two goalless 1990 qualifiers.

The most controversial refereeing decision came in a 2010 semi-final when Nigerian Michael Eneramo clearly handled when scoring the goal that won the tie for Esperance.

It was scant consolation to Ahly that the Ghanaian referee who allowed the goal to stand in Tunisia was banned.

Ahly and Esperance go into the two-leg title decider — the second leg is on November 9 in Tunisia — knowing a great deal about each other having also met in the group stage.

After a 0-0 draw in Egypt, Ahly won the return match 1-0 through a goal from Morocco-born Walid Azaro, one of six he netted in the Champions League this season.

Anice Badri of Esperance has scored one more with his seventh coming five minutes from time to secure overall victory in a dramatic semi-final against Primeiro Agosto of Angola.

Other potential match-winners in Alexandria and Rades include Haythem Jouini of Esperance, who has come off the bench to score vital goals. 

– ‘Unjustified criticism’ –

Walid Soliman of Ahly is another, firing two of the three goals that took the ‘Cairo Red Devils’ past Entente Setif of Algeria in the semi-finals. 

A key factor in the consistent success of north African clubs in CAF competitions is the number of top quality goalkeepers the region boasts. 

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Juve officially sever CEO Marotta’s contract

Milan (AFP) – Serie A champions Juventus have officially severed the contract of chief executive Giuseppe Marotta after eight years with the Turin giants.

The club announced the “termination of the employment contracts” of Marotta, 61, and chief financial officer director Aldo Mazzia, 62.

Marotta will receive 361,775 euros ($409,000) in compensation, with Mazzia getting 278,000 euros, as well as 309,000 euros as settlement compensation and redundancy incentive.

The figures given by Juventus relate to liquidation and indemnity in lieu of notice, but Marotta is reported to have a final payoff of several million, which will also include premiums accrued on the basis of an incentive plan signed years ago.

Marotta was one of the architects of the club’s recent successes, with seven Serie A titles, four Italian Cups and two runners-up finishes in the Champions League.

He has been linked with a management role at Chinese-owned Serie A rivals Inter Milan.

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Romagnoli scores at both ends as AC Milan go fourth

Milan (AFP) – Alessio Romagnoli snatched a late win after earlier conceding an own goal as AC Milan moved fourth in Serie A on Wednesday with a 2-1 win over Genoa.

The match between the two teams had been postponed following the Genoa bridge collapse in August which killed 41 people.

“I’m sorry for my own goal, but I made up for it,” said Romagnoli. 

Gennaro Gattuso’s side overtake Lazio on goal difference with 18 points from ten games — ten points behind leaders Juventus — and four points behind Napoli in third.

“It’s a step, now we have to stay there,” said Gattuso, whose side had been in tenth position before the international break. 

“We know it’s difficult, but after everything we’ve been through, it’s something important.”

Spanish forward Suso had put the hosts ahead after four minutes but Gattuso’s side then suffered, with Romagnoli turning into his own net after 56 minutes after a mixup with on-loan Chelsea midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko.

Genoa goalkeeper Andrei Radu proved solid denying Gonzalo Higuain and Franck Kessie, but was finally beaten by Romagnoli who volleyed over the Romanian keeper who had punched a shot clear of goal.

“We’ve been criticised too much. Results are what count and we’ve got another. We must improve and stay near the top,” said Romagnoli.

Genoa drop to 11th position after their fourth defeat of the season.

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Chelsea beat Lampard’s Derby in League Cup Halloween thriller

London (AFP) – Chelsea dumped Frank Lampard’s Derby out of the League Cup on Wednesday despite a a valiant effort by the Championship side to battle back from a defensive Halloween horror show.

Maurizio Sarri’s much-changed side eventually emerged 3-2 winners, with all five goals coming in a helter-skelter first half, on a night when there were also fourth-round victories for Arsenal, Tottenham and Middlesbrough.

Two astonishing early defensive errors at Stamford Bridge from Fikayo Tomori — on loan from Chelsea — and Richard Keogh either side of a Jack Marriott equaliser gave the home side a 2-1 lead.

Undaunted, Lampard’s side levelled shortly before the half-hour through Martyn Waghorn before Cesc Fabregas restored order for the Premier League high-flyers.

Lampard, one of Chelsea’s greatest-ever players, received a rapturous reception on his first return to Stamford Bridge as a manager, soaking up the atmosphere before kick-off.

Buoyed by his side’s win at Old Trafford against his former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho in the previous round, he was dismayed to witness the errors from his side, which made their task all the harder.

Timori sliced into his own net in the fifth minute, miscuing a clearance when attempting to deal with an innocuous-looking Davide Zappacosta cross.

Midway through the half, lightning struck twice when Keogh failed to deal with another Zappacosta delivery, haplessly steering the ball into his own net.

But the visitors played a full role in a frantic first half, looking sharp as they came forward and were back on level terms before Fabregas scored what turned out to be the decisive goal.

Keogh had a late chance to make amends for his earlier howler but Willy Caballero saved at close range and David Nugent hit the post in the 89th minute, leaving Lampard holding his head in his hands in frustration.

As former Chelsea and Leicester manager Claudio Ranieri looked on from the stands, there was a minute’s applause before kick-off in tribute to Leicester’s late Thai owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, killed in a helicopter crash on Saturday.

Ten-man Arsenal were made to sweat by League One Blackpool before eventually emerging 2-1 winners, with goals from Stefan Lichtsteiner and Emile Smith-Rowe. 

Two goals from Son Heung-min and a strike from Fernando Llorente gave Tottenham a 3-1 win against West Ham while Championship side Middlesbrough upset Premier league outfit Crystal Palace 1-0.

On Tuesday, Burton Albion and Bournemouth booked their places in the quarter-finals while Premier League leaders Manchester City play Fulham on Thursday.

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Interim coach Solari’s Real impress in North Africa Cup outing

Madrid (AFP) – Santiago Solari’s reign as interim Real Madrid coach got off to an encouraging start on Wednesday as the European champions made light of third-tier hosts Melilla in the Copa del Rey.

Goals from Karim Benzema, Marco Asensio, Alvaro Odriozola and Cristo Gonzalez earned the 19-time champions a 4-0 win on their first visit to this Spanish enclave on the north African coast.

Solari was promoted from boss of Real’s Castilla B team on Monday after the sacking of Julen Lopetegui only 139 days after his appointment.

Sunday’s 5-1 Clasico humbling by Barcelona proved the last straw for Real president Florentino Perez, who will nevertheless have been warmed by the team’s display in this last 32 first leg clash.

Melilla may not be Barca or Manchester City but there was plenty to like about Real’s performance, not least the bright debut of highly-touted Brazilian teenager Vinicius Junior.

After catching the eye in Solari’s Castilla side the 18-year-old Flamengo recruit was handed his first team starting debut, and was one of Real’s best players.

His superb pass set up Asensio for Real’s second on the stroke of half time, after Benzema playing as a central striker had tapped in Odriozola’s assist from close range on 28 minutes.

At the restart Solari made two changes, introducing Nacho for Sergio Ramos with Benzema replaced by Federico Valverde.

Melilla began the second period brightly, as they had done the first, proving more of a threat to their well-heeled but hurting visitors.

Against the run of play only a fine point blank save from Melilla keeper Dani Barrio denied Dani Ceballos on the hour.

Then Vicinius almost marked his first team arrival with a goal, his shot thudding off the crossbar.

Odriozola bagged his first goal for Real, firing into an empty net after good work from Vicinius and Reguillo before substitute Gonzalez headed home.

Solari said on Tuesday he was open to becoming Real coach on a long term basis, and as a statement of intent he could not have asked for much more from his first game in charge.

The Argentinian, who spent five years playing for Madrid between 2000 and 2005, is likely to remain in post for Real’s La Liga game at home to Real Valladolid on Saturday and could stay on for next week’s trip to Viktoria Plzen in the Champions League.

Madrid have sounded out former Chelsea and Juventus coach Antonio Conte but initial talks have reportedly not gone smoothly. Belgium boss Roberto Martinez and the club’s former midfielder Guti have also been linked. 

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Reus’s extra-time penalty gives Dortmund German Cup win

Berlin (AFP) – Marco Reus’s 120th-minute penalty broke Union Berlin hearts and sent Borussia Dortmund stumbling into the third round of the German Cup with an epic 3-2 win on Wednesday.

Sebastian Polter had twice brought Union back from behind, but the second division side’s spirited resistance was ended in the final minute of extra time, as Marvin Friedrich brought down Christian Pulisic and Reus smashed home the penalty.

Pulisic prodded Dortmund ahead five minutes before half-time, stabbing in the rebound after goalkeeper Rafal Gikiewicz had clawed Shinji Kagawa’s header off the line.

Union came out fighting in the second half, and were rewarded for their spirit when substitute Polter poked in an equaliser on the counter-attack just after the hour mark.

Maximilian Philipp appeared to end the resistance on 73 minutes, picking up Pulisic’s through ball and rifling the ball past Gikiewicz. 

Yet Polter sprung another surprise minutes from time, heading in Robert Zulj’s cross to level the scores again.

Union fought on bravely in extra-time before Reus’s penalty sent Dortmund into the third round.

Elsewhere, Schalke also edged into the third round, ending their three-game goal drought in a 1-1 draw before winning 6-5 on penalties to scrape past Cologne.

Jhon Cordoba’s deflected shot gave Cologne the lead just before half-time, but Schalke’s salvation came in the form of an 89th-minute penalty, coolly converted by Nabil Bentaleb. 

Mark Uth netted the winning spotkick in sudden death to see Schalke through.

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Qatar Airways becomes CONMEBOL ‘airline partner’

Doha (AFP) – Qatar Airways announced yet another football sponsorship deal on Wednesday by unveiling a four-and-a-half year agreement with CONMEBOL to become the South American football confederation’s “official global airline partner”.

The sponsorship agreement will run until the end of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

“Qatar Airways is delighted to become the official global airline partner of CONMEBOL,” said Qatar Airways CEO Akbar al-Baker. 

“This is another big sponsorship that we are doing in football.”

Baker said that the “milestone” deal would help bolster the brand of the airline and the country.

Jose Manuel Astigarraga, CONMEBOL’s secretary general, called it a “super, fantastic agreement”.

“(It will) build a brighter situation for all of football,” he said. 

“For us, it’s a really big honour to have Qatar as a sponsor.”

Citing a confidentiality agreement, Astigarraga refused to disclose how much the deal was worth but said it was “very interesting”.  

He denied the deal had any link to CONMEBOL’s request for the 2022 World Cup to be expanded to 48 teams.

That proposal currently the subject of a FIFA feasibility study but football’s governing body president Gianni Infantino said in Wednesday that expansion was possible.

But Astigarraga said he did not believe there would be any change.

“I think the Qatar World Cup will be with 32 teams,” he added.

“We didn’t receive any formal answer (to the expansion request), so I suppose we play in Qatar with 32.”

The deal with CONMEBOL is the latest in a rapidly growing football sponsorship portfolio for Qatar Airways.

The airline is also a shirt sponsor of Argentinian giants Boca Juniors, Italian side Roma and has a deal for sleeve sponsorship with Germany’s biggest team, Bayern Munich.

Qatar Airways is also the “official airline” for FIFA.

Qatar’s sporting and trade relationship with South America is also growing.

Baker confirmed that Boca Juniors will play in Qatar early in 2019 — talks are ongoing for the Argentinians to play in a potential tournament which could involve several teams sponsored by the airline.

Also next year, Qatar’s national side will play in the Copa America in Brazil.

Wednesday’s announcement comes just weeks after Qatar’s leader Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani completed a trip to Ecuador, Peru, Argentina and also Paraguay, where CONMEBOL has its headquarters.

Baker said Qatar Airways, which has a 10 per cent stake in Chilean airline Lat Am, had “strong ties” with South America.

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Nathaniel Mendez-Laing’s long journey from obscurity to Premier League football

Nathaniel Mendez-Laing was a relatively unknown figure outside of the Wolverhampton Wanderers academy until a few years ago. But a series of loan spells at lower league teams moulded him into a potential star who, when fit, may have the opportunity to save Cardiff City’s Premier League campaign.

Mendez-Laing, a quick, and snappy winger with bags of potential and raw talent, was first loaned out to Peterborough United. The youngster was often used as a super-sub at “The Posh” as manager Darren Ferguson utilized his pace and trickery in the dying moments where the club needed it most. In a side of players including Aaron McLean, Craig Mackail-Smith and George Boyd — all of whom would soon transfer for big money to Championship teams — Mendez-Laing didn’t look out of place nor did he ever look like he was just there to make up the numbers as he often provided big contributions in key moments. The then teenager helped himself to a respectable total of five goals in 33 league appearances for a Peterborough side that won promotion to the Championship via the League One playoffs.

Many at Peterborough were so impressed by the young wideman’s performance in his debut professional year that the club tried to sign him on a permanent basis. But that move wasn’t to be. Instead, misfortune found Mendez-Laing as he spent half of the 2011 season on an unsuccessful loan at Sheffield United. But Peterborough United did get the deal done the following summer, allowing the player to return to the site of his most famous feats.

Mendez-Laing seemed to pick up where he left off following his return. For a long period, he dazzled with flicks and tricks and helped the team in their pursuit to avoid relegation from England’s second tier. However those happy times did not last long as following a public order offense in Peterborough town center, Mendez-Laing was pushed out of the team and loaned to Portsmouth. Though following his month out in the cold, manager Darren Ferguson announced that he had forgiven Mendez-Laing and that all involved wished to move on. Ferguson’s wish seemed to be Mendez-Laing’s command as he shone on his return from the naughty step, showing his class by grabbing goals against Millwall and Crystal Palace, almost inspiring the team to avoid the drop back down to League One.

SEE MORE: Schedule of Premier League games on US TV and streaming

After Mendez-Laing’s strong performance at the business end of the relegation plagued 2012-13 campaign, many hoped that Mendez-Laing was going to reprise his starring role the following year and lead the club to promotion back to the Championship. But this wasn’t to be the case as criticism once again came knocking on Mendez-Laing’s door. Manager Darren Ferguson, as well as many fans, commented that Mendez-Laing had returned from the summer break looking unfit and unlike his usual self. This period of poor fitness ignited another rocky patch in the wide man’s career. Mendez-Laing was sent on loan for a month to Shrewsbury before returning briefly to Peterborough who subsequently sent him on loan once again, this time to local rivals Cambridge United.

Peterborough United released their former star man in the summer of 2015 when fellow League One side Rochdale took a chance on him. Mendez-Laing repaid their faith by giving them two decent seasons and helping them to stay in League One. Mendez-Laing’s consistency at Rochdale earned him a somewhat surprising move to promotion-chasing Championship side Cardiff City in the summer of 2017. At Cardiff, Mendez-Laing retook to Championship football like a duck to water scoring three goals in his first three games and assuming a star berth in a Cardiff team that won promotion to the Championship.

The career of Nathaniel Mendez-Laing has been a rollercoaster ride. His story is one of hard work, dedication, talent, eventual maturity and also of often near disaster but more crucially it is an ongoing story that should provide hope to all lower league footballers. Because in just a few years Mendez-Laing has transformed from an often loaned nomad to a key player for a Premier League side; that is quite a trajectory. But like in his early days at Peterborough United, Mendez-Laing will not be a bystander amongst quality players but surely an inspiration in their fight to beat the drop from the country’s top flight.

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‘Do the Neymar’: Irish fire chiefs issue Halloween advice

Dublin (AFP) – Irish fire chiefs have advised people to “do the #Neymar” if their Halloween costume catches fire, tweeting a video of the Brazil forward rolling around on the turf.

Alongside various safety warnings about bonfires on their Twitter feed, the Dublin Fire Brigade opted for a GIF of Neymar to get their message across.

“STOP, DROP & ROLL. If you find yourself in a position where your costume or clothes catch fire, do the #Neymar. Running will only fan the flames and help the fire spread. STOPPING, DROPPING & ROLLING will smother the flames.”

Neymar, who plays for Paris Saint-German, is recognised as one of the world’s top players but has an unwanted reputation for play-acting.

At the World Cup in Russia he was mocked for his on-field theatrics as Brazil crashed out at the quarter-final stage.

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Vichai son vows to press on with Leicester City owner’s ‘big mission’

Bangkok (AFP) – The youngest son of Leicester City’s late Thai owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha issued a heartfelt message of thanks Wednesday for the cascade of condolences that followed his father’s death in a helicopter crash, vowing to “carry on his big vision”.

Vichai, 60, was Thailand’s fifth-richest man when he died in the horrific accident after watching his team play on Saturday.

He made billions from his King Power duty-free monopoly in Thailand, using the cash to invest in hotels, horses and Leicester’s once-unremarkable football club, which shocked the sporting world by winning the Premier League in 2016.

In the first public reaction from the family, Aiyawatt — better known by his nickname “Top” — thanked people for the messages of support from across the world.

“I’m extremely proud to have such an extraordinary father,” he said in an Instagram post shared by King Power’s press office.

“I’m touched by how many people kept him close to their hearts.”  

Vichai leaves behind a wife, and four children, two sons and two daughters. All five are on the executive board of King Power.

But Top — already vice-chairman of Leicester — appeared to confirm he has been anointed to lead at least parts of the King Power empire.

“He (Vichai) has left me with a legacy to continue and I will do everything I can to carry on his big vision and dreams,” the post said.

“From him I have received a very big mission and legacy to pass on… and I intend to do just that.”

The post was accompanied by several photos of the pair embracing, one with Top kissing his father on the cheek and another presenting a polo trophy to his father. Both shared a love for the equestrian sport.

Leicester City also published a statement from Top on their website in which he thanked “everyone from the bottom of my heart”, including the emergency services.

“For a long time, my father taught me to be strong and to take care of my family,” he said. “He loved his family. He made Leicester City into a family. And nothing would make him prouder than to see how the Leicester City family that he built is supporting each other through a time of such sadness.” 

“I miss you dad, with all of my heart,” he added.

– Shopping empire –

Over three decades Vichai chiselled out a shopping empire now worth about $4.9 billion, according to Forbes, with his initial success owing less to family wealth than a knack for winning — and then keeping — the favour of the Thai elite, gatekeepers to the kingdom’s wealth.

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Zlatan, Rooney among MLS Most Valuable Player finalists

New York (AFP) – Sweden’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic, England’s Wayne Rooney and Venezuelan striker Josef Martinez were among five finalists named Wednesday for Major League Soccer’s 2018 Most Valuable Player Award.

Hours before the North American league began its playoff championship run, the league announced finalists for its season awards, topped by the MVP race, which also includes Mexico’s Carlos Vela and Paraguayan midfielder Miguel Almiron.

Zlatan scored 22 goals and added 10 assists — only the fourth 20-and-10 season in MLS history — but the Los Angeles Galaxy just missed out on a playoff berth.

Rooney revived DC United after his mid-season arrival, lifting the club from last place into a fourth-place finish in the Eastern Conference and a playoff spot. The former England and Manchester United star netted 12 goals and assisted on seven others in 18 matches.

Vela, a World Cup starter fior Mexico, scored 14 goals and added 13 assists to spark Los Angeles FC to the best season by any first-year expansion club in league history.

Rooney, Zlatan and Vela are also the finalists for Newcomer of the Year, a pro player who made his MLS debut this year.

Martinez shattered the MLS record with 31 goals this season for Atlanta United while teammate Almiron, last year’s Newcomer of the Year, contributed 12 goals and 14 assists for Atlanta’s league-best scoring attack.

Zlatan is also in the last three for Comeback Player of the Year along with Cuban midfielder Osvaldo Alonso of the Seattle Sounders and American forward Gyasi Zardes of the Columbus Crew.

MLS Coach of the Year candidates included Americans Bob Bradley, who guided LAFC to an expansion-team record 57 points and Peter Vermes, who oversaw Sporting Kansas City to the Western Conference title, and Argentina’s Gerardo Martino, who managed Atlanta United’s second-place run in the Eastern Conference.

Goalkeeper of the Year finalists were Swiss Stefan Frei of Seattle and American Luis Robles of New York Red Bulls and Zack Steffen of Columbus.

Defender of the Year finalists were Americans Aaron Long of the New York Red Bulls, Chad Marshall of the Seattle Sounders and Michael Parkhurst of Atlanta United.

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No touchline ban for Mourinho after FA charge ‘not proven’

London (AFP) – The threat of a touchline ban hanging over Jose Mourinho was removed Wednesday when a Football Association charge brought against the Manchester United manager for using foul language was declared “not proven”.

Television footage showed Mourinho saying something, apparently in his native Portuguese, while at one point looking into a camera, as he headed towards the tunnel after the final whistle of the comeback win over Newcastle.

He also made a gesture with his right hand while speaking, pointing with his little finger.

But a statement issued by the FA said: “A charge against Jose Mourinho for allegedly using language which was abusive and/or insulting and/or improper has been found not proven following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing today.

“It related to an incident at the end of the Manchester United versus Newcastle United game on 6 October 2018.

“Written reasons for the decision of the Independent Regulatory Commission will be published in due course. This decision is subject to appeal.”

The full written reasons are likely to be published next week, when the FA’s disciplinary department will consider whether to lodge an appeal.

Mourinho had been under intense pressure heading into the Newcastle game at Old Trafford amid speculation he would be sacked, regardless of the result, with United not having won any of their four previous matches.

Newcastle went 2-0 up inside 10 minutes but United recovered to win, with Alexis Sanchez’s 90th-minute goal sealing victory. 

The 55-year-old Mourinho, who said after the match he was the subject of a media “manhunt”, added when asked about the gesture: “It is a finger. Smaller than the others, but it is a finger.”

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Vichai’s son vows to continue Thai billionaire’s ‘big mission’

Bangkok (AFP) – The youngest son of Leicester City’s Thai billionaire owner, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, issued a heartfelt message of thanks late Wednesday for the cascade of condolences that followed his father’s death in a helicopter crash.

Vichai, 60, was Thailand’s fifth-richest man when he died in the horror crash after watching his beloved Leicester City play on Saturday.

He made billions from his King Power duty-free monopoly in Thailand, using the cash to invest in hotels, horses and latterly Leicester’s once unremarkable football club.

In the first public reaction from his devastated family, his 32-year-old son Aiyawatt — better known by his nickname ‘Top’ — thanked people for the messages of support from across the world.

“I’m extremely proud to have such an extraordinary father,” he said in an Instagram post shared by King Power’s press office.

“I’m touched by how many people kept him close to their hearts.”  

Vichai leaves behind a wife, and four children, two sons and two daughters. All five are on the executive board of King Power.

But Top — already vice-chairman of Leicester — appeared to confirm he has been anointed to lead at least parts of the King Power empire.

“He (Vichai) has left me with a legacy to continue and I will do everything I can to carry on his big vision and dreams,” the post said.

“From him I have received a very big mission and legacy to pass on… and I intend to do just that.”

The post was accompanied by several photos of the pair embracing, one with Top kissing his father on the cheek and another cheekily presenting a polo trophy to his father. Both shared a love for the equestrian sport.

– Shopping empire –

Over three decades Vichai chiselled out a shopping empire now worth some $4.9 billion, according to Forbes, with his initial success owing less to family wealth than a knack for winning — and then keeping — the favour of the Thai elite, gatekeepers to the kingdom’s wealth.

That included the monarchy, in honour of whom he named his company and whose former king rewarded him with his lengthy royally-bestowed surname that translates as “auspicious and prosperous light”.

But King Power’s cash cow duty-free business is under threat.

It is likely to face a serious challenge to its monopoly on duty-free at Thailand’s main international airports when its license comes up for review later this year.

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Wenger vows to return in 2019

London (AFP) – Arsene Wenger has promised he will be back in football management at the start of 2019, but the Frenchman does not yet know at which club.

The 69-year-old veteran boss ended his 22-year reign at Premier League side Arsenal at the end of last season but insisted at the time he was not yet finished with football.

Asked when he would be back in management, Wenger told Sky Sports on Wednesday: “At the beginning of the year.

“It will seem odd to go somewhere else but I can’t tell you (where) because I don’t know where I’ll be. I’ll be somewhere — but I don’t know where.

“I have had a good rest and watched football a lot. I have many good memories, so I miss them.”

Meanwhile Wenger, whose final seasons in charge of Arsenal saw the once mighty Gunners struggling to contend for the English title, was pleased by the North London giants’ start to this season.

Under new manager Unai Emery, Arsenal are currently fourth in the table, just four points behind Premier League leaders and reigning champions Manchester City, despite losing their first two league games this term. 

“When Arsenal win I am happy,” said Wenger. “I felt I worked very hard and I think I left it (the club) in good shape.

“After that, I’m a supporter like anyone else — I want them to win football games.”

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Bayern star Alcantara sidelined for ‘weeks’ by ankle injury

Berlin (AFP) – Bayern Munich expect to be without Thiago Alcantara for “a few weeks” — including their Bundesliga showdown at Borussia Dortmund — after the Spain midfielder injured his ankle in a narrow German Cup win.

Bayern confirmed Wednesday that Thiago torn the outer ligament in his right ankle in a 2-1 win at fourth-tier Roedinghausen in the second round of the German Cup, which saw him carried off late in the game.

Thiago was one of the few Bayern stars in good form and his loss is a blow ahead of the Bundesliga showdown at leaders Dortmund in ten days which is shaping up to be a top-of-the-table clash.

With Bayern second in the German league table, sports director Hasan Salihamidzic has already said the loss of Thiago is bad “as he really matters to the team”.

Head coach Niko Kovac is already without long-term injured French pair Kingsley Coman, who tore ankle ligaments in August, and Corentin Tolisso, who damaged knee ligaments in September.

Bayern have won their last four games, but looked jaded in recent weeks and the loss of Thiago is another blow after the team laboured in Osnabrueck against Roedinghausen’s part-timers on Tuesday.

Bayern host mid-table Freiburg at the Allianz Arena on Saturday in the Bundesliga, then AEK Athens in the Champions League next Wednesday, having already beaten the reigning Greek champions 2-0 in Athens a fortnight ago, before the crunch showdown on November 10 at Dortmund.

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Klopp happy to learn from New Zealand rugby league team

London (AFP) – Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said Wednesday he had enjoyed a “cool” time with the touring New Zealand rugby league team.

The Kiwis visited the Premier League football giants Melwood training ground ahead of their second Test against England at Liverpool’s Anfield ground on Sunday.

Klopp, who spoke to New Zealand coach Michael Maguire, was presented with a Kiwi jersey by prop Jesse Bromwich and looked on as the tourists performed the Haka in the canteen.

“It was great,” Klopp said. “They are a bunch of real sports guys, I think it’s the third time now that we’ve had the opportunity to host them.

“It’s really cool. They had a good session, I hope. They are always welcome.”

The German added: “We’re a very open-minded club, we’re open to learn from different sports.

“I’m interested in it actually. Obviously the sport is quite different but it’s still interesting to talk and have a chat. I enjoyed it a lot.”

New Zealand utility player Gerard Beale, among the 2015 and 2016 Kiwi team that visited Melwood, said: “Each time it’s special.

“It’s a privilege to be able to come into Liverpool’s home and share their facilities. To mix and mingle and rub shoulders with some of the players was really special.

“They are famous, with people like Mo Salah but the biggest thing was seeing how genuine and approachable they are.

“It’s cool that we could share the Haka with them and we put in a good session so morale is definitely up there.”

England beat New Zealand 18-16 in the first Test of a three-match series at Hull on Saturday.

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Bayern sweating on Alcantara ankle injury

Berlin (AFP) – Bayern Munich will discover on Wednesday the extent of Thiago Alcantara’s ankle injury after the Spain midfielder had to be helped off in their narrow German Cup win.

Despite starting with 11 internationals, Bayern scraped past fourth-tier Roedinghausen 2-1 in Tuesday’s second round tie as Thiago was carried off late on.

“I hope it’s nothing bad, but it didn’t look good and he was in a lot of pain,” said Bayern coach Niko Kovac.

“We must wait on the exact diagnosis, but it looks like he has an ankle injury.”

Kovac is already without long-term injured French pair Kingsley Coman, who tore ankle ligaments in August, and Corentin Tolisso, who damaged knee ligaments in September.

Thiago is one of the few Bayern stars to hit good form recently.

He scored the winning goal in Saturday’s 2-1 win at Mainz and Bayern, currently second in the Bundesliga, can ill-afford to lose him for the clash at league leaders Borussia Dortmund in ten days time.

“It doesn’t look good. It would be bad if he has to drop out as he really matters to the team,” admitted Bayern’s sports director Hasan Salihamidzic.

Bayern have won their last four games but have looked jaded in recent weeks and laboured in Osnabrueck against Roedinghausen’s part-timers.

Bayern were 2-0 up inside 13 minutes as Sandro Wagner scored an early goal and Thomas Mueller converted a penalty, but lost their way after Renato Sanches fired a spot-kick off the woodwork after 23 minutes.

“We are through, but as we all saw, every (Bayern) player has to give it some thought – this isn’t just our right (to reach the third round),” fumed Mueller. 

Roedinghausen pulled a goal back just after the break and had chances to equalise against the reigning Bundesliga champions.

“We’re a round further in the competition, which is always what you want and we played well up until the second penalty,” said Kovac.

“After we missed that, the wind went out of our sails and we didn’t play as well as I had imagined we would.”

Bayern host mid-table Freiburg at the Allianz Arena on Saturday in the Bundesliga, then AEK Athens in the Champions League next Wednesday, having already beaten the reigning Greek champions 2-0 in Athens a fortnight ago, before the crunch showdown on November 10 at Dortmund.

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‘Why not?’ FIFA boss says 48 teams ‘feasible’ for Qatar World Cup

Kuala Lumpur (AFP) – FIFA president Gianni Infantino said expanding the 2022 World Cup to 48 teams was “feasible” on Wednesday, as hosts Qatar pledged to come to a decision in the early part of next year.

Infantino said “Why not?” bring forward the expansion from 32 teams to 48, which is currently due at the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

“We have decided… to increase the number of teams participating in the World Cup final tournaments from 32 to 48,” Infantino told the Asian Football Confederation’s annual congress in Kuala Lumpur.

“It will happen in 2026. Will it happen in 2022? You know me. It is possible. It is possible. Why not?” he added.

Infantino said an expanded tournament would see Asia’s allocation rise from 4.5 places to 8.5, raising cheers from the delegates assembled at a luxury hotel in the Malaysian capital.

“You will have (a bigger) chance. It is possible. It is feasible. We are discussing with our Qatari friends. We are discussing with many other friends in the region. We hope we have it happen. We always have to try,” he said. 

Accommodating another 16 teams would vastly complicate Qatar’s task in preparing for the World Cup, which was awarded to the tiny desert state in 2010.

Qatar has also been involved in a stand-off with neighbours Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt, who have cut off diplomatic relations and imposed a blockade on the resource-rich country, accusing it of endorsing terror activities.

Hassan al-Thawadi, head of the 2022 organising body, told AFP that Qatar was studying the 48 teams proposal and would make a decision before qualifying gets under way.

“We are still looking at the feasibility studies and we will be in a better position to provide a feedback in the future,” he said.

“But it will be decided before the qualifications… sometime in the first quarter of next year.”

He added that preparations remained on track despite the blockade, and that the budget of $200 billion for the entire infrastructure, including metro and expressway, has not been affected.

“We are very happy and excited with the progress. It is on track. By 2020-2021 all our (eight) stadiums will be ready,” al-Thawadi said.

“This is the first World Cup in the Middle East and is a perfect opportunity to bring people together and contribute to the process of healing,” he added.

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China’s national football coach to leave after Asian Cup

Beijing (AFP) – China’s veteran head coach Marcello Lippi will not renew his contract with the national football team after it expires in January, state media reported.

In an interview at a football awards ceremony in Monaco, Lippi said that he wants to return home to his family after working abroad for six years, CGTN said Tuesday.

During the Italian coach’s tenure, the Chinese team’s performance has remained lacklustre. In 2018, China failed to qualify for the World Cup in Russia. 

“I feel I have worked well and we have improved, even though the margin of improvement hasn’t been that high, because it was pretty low when we started,” he admitted.

The Asian Cup, a regional football tournament, will be held in the United Arab Emirates in January. Lippi’s contract with China’s national football team is scheduled to expire at the end of the month.

It is unclear whether China’s national team has found a replacement for the head coach. A spokesman from the Chinese Football Association said they had no updates to share.

Lippi led Juventus to five Series A titles and their last Champions League triumph in 1996, as well as guiding Italy to victory in the 2006 World Cup.

He took his first coaching position outside Italy six years ago with Guangzhou Evergrande. with whom he won three Chinese Super League titles.

Lippi took over the China national side in 2016 and is reported to be the best-paid international coach in the world on wages of between $23 million and $27 million a year.

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Where to find Palmeiras vs. Boca Juniors on US TV and streaming

If you’re trying to find out how you can watch Palmeiras vs. Boca Juniors in the Copa Libertadores semifinal, you’ve come to the right place.

In the first leg, Boca Juniors won 2-0 at home, so the Argentine team certainly has the advantage going into the second leg of the Copa Libertadores semi-final. Will it be Boca Juniors or Palmeiras in the final? It should be a nail biter.

You can watch the eagerly-anticipated game for free with a 14-day trial to legal streaming service Fanatiz (USA only). Learn more below.

Match: Palmeiras vs. Boca Juniors

Kickoff: Wednesday, 8:45pm ET

Looking to watch Palmeiras vs. Boca Juniors online from your work, home or on the go? If you live in the USA, there are several options to catch all the action.

We Recommend:

US Only.

Here are all of the details of where you can watch it on television and via legal streaming:

Who: Palmeiras vs. Boca Juniors
What: Copa Libertadores, semifinal, 2nd leg
When: Game kicks off at 8:45pm ET / 5:45pm PT; Wednesday, October 31, 2018
Where: Live on Fanatiz (free 14-day trial) and FOX Deportes

With Fanatiz, you can watch Palmeiras vs. Boca Juniors and tons more Copa Libertadores games with a 14-day trial. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV or hook it up to your TV with Google Chromecast.

Now with Fanatiz, you can stream the Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana, Superliga Argentina, Copa Argentina, Chilean league and Chilean Cup.

The Fanatiz app is available for Android tablets/smartphones, Roku and Apple tablets/smartphones. Plus it works with Chromecast so you can cast it to your TV.

To stream the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana games, soccer fans can subscribe to Fanatiz for only $9.99 per month, with a 14 day free-trial. But even better, Fanatiz is offering an exclusive deal to readers of World Soccer Talk where you can get 50% off Fanatiz for the first 3 months of service.

To get the 50% discount, visit the Fanatiz website (the offer is not available via the app) and then enter coupon code wstfz2 at checkout to get your savings.

 

SEE MORE: Schedule of Copa Libertadores games on US TV and streaming

 

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Rooney, United eye MLS playoff run

Los Angeles (AFP) – Wayne Rooney has his sights set on postseason glory as D.C. United launch their MLS Cup campaign on Thursday with a home tie against Columbus Crew.

Former Manchester United and England star Rooney has been the catalyst for a stunning transformation in United’s fortunes this season, leading them from the bottom of the Eastern Conference in July to playoff contenders in October.

United arrive in the playoffs brimming with confidence after a 10-game unbeaten streak, with the Washington club sealing fourth place conference standings on Sunday with a 0-0 draw against Chicago.

A victory over Columbus at Audi Field on Thursday would see Rooney and United into a conference semi-final against either the New York Red Bulls or Atlanta United.

While United finished 20 points adrift of the first place Red Bulls in the final regular season standings, there is little doubt that Rooney and his teammates are genuine contenders in the postseason.

Columbus manager Gregg Berhalter, who is tipped to take over as coach of the United States national team after this season, expects Rooney and strike partner Luciano Acosta to cause problems for his defence.

“Rooney’s overall quality, his timing of his movements is excellent, his passing is excellent, his finishing and shooting is really good,” Berhalter said.

“Acosta has taken his game to a different level with the addition of Wayne Rooney — very dynamic, very good off the dribble. Overall, a really good player.”

– ‘One of the best’ –

Former Boca Juniors and Estudiantes forward Acosta says Rooney has transformed his season. Since Rooney arrived at the club, Acosta has netted nine goals with 10 assists in 20 games.

“He’s one of the best,” Acosta told the Washington Post. “He does everything so well and makes it look easy on the field. It wasn’t hard for me to complement him. You learn his movements and learn how he plays, where he wants the ball and where he is going to serve the ball. For me, it was not difficult to learn.”

In the other first round playoff game in the East, New York City FC will be looking to reach the conference semi-finals for a third straight season when they face Philadelphia Union on Wednesday.

The playoff game is a repeat of Sunday’s final regular season game, which was won 3-1 by New York.

City head into the game with uncertainty swirling around striker David Villa. 

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Rooney urges Man United flops to show respect

London (AFP) – Wayne Rooney has urged Manchester United’s under-achieving stars to show more respect for their troubled club.

United are languishing in eighth place in the Premier League and have made a slow start to their Champions League campaign.

Sunday’s 2-1 win over Everton did little to lift the gloom around Old Trafford, with United manager Jose Mourinho under scrutiny following a spluttering run which has seen key players fail to produce consistent performances.

Mourinho has clashed with United stars including Paul Pogba, Luke Shaw, Alexis Sanchez and Anthony Martial.

And Rooney, who became United’s record goalscorer before leaving in 2017, believes it is down to the team’s highly-paid stars to play with more pride and passion regardless of their issues with Mourinho.

In an interview with Football Focus, published on the BBC Sport website, DC United striker Rooney said: “Obviously they are going through a difficult period at the minute, but Jose Mourinho is very experienced and I think some players have to do a little bit better.

“In my experience, I have never seen or heard of a player not wanting to play in the game because they have had a falling out with the manager.

“I don’t think as a player you could do that, you’ve got to respect the club and the fans and also respect your team-mates.

“I don’t think any player, certainly at Manchester United, will be not playing for Jose, I’m sure they’re all working hard behind the scenes to get results.”

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Winning title will be harder than last year, says Silva

London (AFP) – Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva claims winning the title this season would be an even better achievement than their record-breaking triumph last term.

Pep Guardiola’s side smashed a host of Premier League milestones as they finished 19 points clear of second-placed Manchester United.

And, while they haven’t hit those heights so far this season, City are firmly in the hunt to win the title again. 

A 1-0 win at Tottenham on Monday lifted them back to the top of the table, above Liverpool on goal difference.

It was their eighth win from 10 games and their sixth successive clean sheet, but Silva has the feeling it will be much tougher for City to remain on top this season.

“I think it will be harder because last season nobody was expecting us to win as many games and to reach that level of points, so this season the teams know they have to do better to beat us,” Silva said.

“Of course it will be very hard, but we will work every game to get the three points and at the end of it try and celebrate winning one more Premier League.

“I think either Chelsea and Liverpool are contenders, they are very strong, Arsenal as well.

“Even Tottenham, even though they lost, they’re still contenders.”

What makes City’s quest slightly easier is the fact they have already visited Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham and have come away unscathed, with seven points.

Portugal midfielder Silva says it could be important to have picked up points in these games ahead of the return fixtures, which will come over the title run-in.

“I think that’s important to win these games, to have a draw away at Anfield, to win at the Emirates and now here at Wembley, it’s important,” he said.

“But still they have to come to play us at the Etihad, which is a bit better for us.

“It’s still the beginning of the season and anything can happen, we have to keep strong and with the ambition of winning every game and never relax.”

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Bournemouth make League Cup quarters, Burton down Forest

London (AFP) – Bournemouth moved into the League Cup quarter-finals with a 2-1 win over Norwich, while Nigel Clough’s Burton earned a surprise 3-2 victory over his old club Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.

Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth have reached the League Cup’s last eight for a second successive season thanks to Steve Cook’s winner in the fourth round tie at Dean Court.

Cherries defender Cook smashed home 18 minutes from full-time.

Bournemouth had taken the lead through Junior Stanislas’ first-half opener before Onel Hernandez equalised for second-tier Norwich.

Howe’s men, who are sixth in the top flight, are unbeaten in eight matches at home this term and host Manchester United in the Premier League this weekend. 

At the Pirelli Stadium, Burton manager Clough enjoyed a memorable success at the expense of the club where both he and his father enjoyed the best days.

Clough is one of Forest’s favourite sons after making more than 400 appearances as a forward in the 1980s and 1990s, while his father Brian twice guided the unfashionable club to European Cup glory as their greatest manager.

Burton are languishing in 16th place in League One, while Forest are chasing promotion from the Championship and had lost only one of their previous 10 games.

But the form book was ripped up as Clough led his club — the lowest-ranked side left in the competition — into the quarter-finals for the first time.

All the goals came in the second half, with Burton taking the lead through Saidy Janko’s own goal.

Scott Fraser blasted Burton’s second on 64 minutes before substitute Lewis Grabban pulled one back.

Jake Hesketh’s volley restored Albion’s two-goal lead with seven minutes to play, but Forest’s Arvin Appiah set up a nervy finish with a stoppage-time strike.

Leicester had been due to host Southampton on Tuesday in their fourth round tie, but the clash was postponed in the aftermath of the helicopter crash that killed the club’s owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.

Thai billionaire Vichai was among five people who perished when his helicopter crashed outside Leicester’s King Power Stadium following Saturday’s match against West Ham.

With mourners flocking to the stadium and the crash site cordoned off as investigators picked through the wreckage, Leicester opted not to play as the grieving city comes to terms with the tragedy.

Leicester have yet to set a new date for the Southampton match, but they will return to action for the first time since the horrific accident when they travel to Cardiff in the Premier League on Saturday.

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Fourth-tier minnows give Bayern a German Cup scare

Berlin (AFP) – Fourth-tier part-timers Roedinghausen made mighty Bayern Munich work for a 2-1 away win in the second round of the German Cup on Tuesday.

It was a poor performance from reigning Bundesliga champions Bayern, and the win came at a price as Thiago Alcantara had to be helped off with 15 minutes to go.

“We have got through but everyone needs to think about their performance here,” said goalscorer Thomas Mueller.

“We played well for the first 20 minutes, but then we made a lot of mistakes and became nervous.”

Bayern were 2-0 up after just 13 minutes in Osnabrueck when stand-in striker Sandro Wagner netted and Mueller converted a penalty in freezing conditions.

Bayern wasted the chance to increase their lead on 23 minutes when Renato Sanches fired his penalty attempt against the crossbar.

Despite trailing by two at the break, Roedinghausen dreamt of an upset after midfielder Linus Meyer drilled in on 50 minutes to cause nervous glances in the Bayern ranks. 

Bayern coach Niko Kovac named a weakened team but still started with 11 internationals.

They took the lead after just eight minutes at Osnabrueck’s Bremner Bruecke stadium, the 16,000-capacity ground which could have housed the entire population of the nearby municipality of Roedinghausen.

Wagner stabbed home a Sanches volley to give Bayern an early lead.

When Sanches was pulled down in the area, Mueller put away the penalty and the Bavarians appeared on course for a routine win.

It should have been 3-0 when Leon Goretzka was fouled in the area, but Sanches smashed his spot-kick off the crossbar.

Roedinghausen came out with renewed energy after half-time and midfielder Meyer soon had the delight of scoring past Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.  

With 15 minutes left, Roedinghausen goalkeeper Niclas Heimann pulled off a remarkable save to deny Franck Ribery but there was ultimately no fairytale for the hosts.

Elsewhere fourth-tier Ulm, who knocked out holders Eintracht Frankfurt in the first round, bowed out after being thumped 5-1 at home by Bundesliga strugglers Fortuna Duesseldorf.

Wolfsburg carved out a 2-0 win at Hanover 96 in an all-Bundesliga clash with their towering Dutch striker Wout Weghorst claiming his third goal in as many games.

Hertha Berlin also booked their place in the third round with a 2-0 win at third-division Darmstadt.

Hertha captain Vedad Ibisevic scored just seconds after coming off the bench before defender Maximilian Mittelstaedt added a late second.

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Streaming services price comparison

We’ve created a streaming services price comparison that include the major players such as Sling TV and DIRECTV NOW as well as several streaming platforms that you may not be as familiar with.

When it comes to deciding which streaming service is best, pricing is important. But so too is the value you get for your money. Not every streaming service is the same, and the channels that each service offers vary greatly.

Let’s face it, the number of streaming options available is sometimes bewildering. That’s why we created the helpful pricing comparison of streaming services in United States below to make it easier for you to get the facts.

We’ve separated the different streaming services available into five different categories. Many of the streaming companies offer free trials (just click on the names below to take them for a test drive).

Streaming services price comparison

Last updated: October 30, 2018

 

	$0-$10/MTH	$15-$25/MTH	$35-$40/MTH	$45-$60/MTH	$65-$80/MTH
ESPN+	$5/month
B/R Live	$10/month
Fanatiz	$10/month
Sling Latino	$10/month
Sling World Sports	$10/month
fubo Latino		$17.99/month
FOX Soccer Match Pass		$19.99/month
fubo Português		$19.99/month
Sling Orange		$25/month
Sling Blue		$25/month
fuboTV			$39.99/month
Hulu Live			$39.99/month
DIRECTV NOW (Live A Little package)			$40/month
YouTube TV			$40/month
fubo Extra				$44.99/month
PlayStation Vue (Access package)				$44.99/month
DIRECTV NOW (Todo y Mas package)				$45/month
PlayStation Vue (Core package)				$49.99/month
DIRECTV NOW (Just Right package)				$55/month
PlayStation Vue (Elite package)				$59.99/month
DIRECTV NOW (Go Big package)					$65/month
DIRECTV NOW (Gotta Have It package)					$75/month
PlayStation Vue (Ultra package)					$79.99/month

 

Have any questions about the streaming services price comparison? Let us know in the comments section below.

 

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‘If you cheat, you have to be thrown out’ – La Liga chief steps up pressure on PSG

Paris (AFP) – The president of Spain’s La Liga, Javier Tebas, has stepped up his criticism of Paris Saint-Germain as he pushed UEFA to kick teams out of the Champions League for breaching their Financial Fair Play rules.

UEFA opened an investigation into the Qatari-owned club’s spending in September 2017 under pressure from some of Europe’s footballing elite after they signed Neymar from Barcelona for a world-record 222 million euros ($264 million). 

They then completed a deal to sign Kylian Mbappe from Monaco for 180 million euros just a few weeks later, and Tebas has been especially vocal in his criticism of PSG’s finances, while also targeting Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City.

“UEFA’s Financial Fair Play rules say that when you cheat with your budgets, you have to be thrown out of the competition,” Tebas said Tuesday during an interview in Paris with several media, including AFP.

PSG have never been barred from playing in the Champions League, although in late September UEFA said it had referred the accusations against the French giants to its financial unit “for further investigation”.

UEFA rules mandate that clubs cannot spend more than they earn in any given season and deficits must fall within a 30-million-euro limit over three seasons.

PSG’s case, though, is complicated by lucrative sponsorship deals with the Qatar National Bank and the Gulf state’s tourism authority. Tebas claims his faith in UEFA and FFP is wavering.

“I am sceptical. I have to have confidence just now. When this whole process ends, ask me again,” said the 56-year-old.

– PSG ‘the most blatant’ –

Tebas has ignored the pleas of PSG president Nasser Al Khelaifi to stop his public criticism of the French champions and claims he is not simply trying to protect the interests of Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Both clubs, along with other traditional European giants, have been threatened by the emergence of PSG and City with their mega-rich Gulf owners.

“I want football to be economically balanced, so that there are no devious methods to becoming big, because this places football’s economic structure in danger,” he said.

“In this case I am defending the interests of professional football in Europe.

“UEFA’s Financial Fair Play rules are there to be obeyed. We also denounced Manchester City and we are studying other clubs in Europe, not just PSG. The thing is that PSG have been the most blatant.”

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Zaha reveals racist abuse after Arsenal penalty row

London (AFP) – Wilfried Zaha claims he suffered racist abuse and threats to his family after he won a controversial penalty in Crystal Palace’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal.

Palace forward Zaha was clipped by Granit Xhaka in the closing minutes of Sunday’s Premier League clash, with Luka Milivojevic converting the spot-kick to end Arsenal’s 11-match winning run.

Following the match, Arsenal defender Xhaka said he thought the incident had been a “clear penalty”.

But Ivory Coast international Zaha once again found himself accused of diving by fans on the internet, following several previous high-profile claims that he was guilty of simulation.

Zaha took to social media to defend himself, but subsequently revealed in a post on Instagram on Tuesday that the abuse had escalated.

“For all the people taking it one step further and being racist and wishing death on my family I wish you and your families the best too x p.s my life is still very good despite your hate,” Zaha wrote.

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Leicester to face Cardiff after Vichai’s tragic death

London (AFP) – Leicester have confirmed their Premier League clash at Cardiff will go ahead on Saturday following the tragic death of owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.

Thai billionaire Vichai was among five people killed when his helicopter crashed outside Leicester’s King Power Stadium following Saturday’s match against West Ham.

With mourners flocking to the stadium and the crash site cordoned off as investigators picked through the wreckage, Leicester had already postponed Tuesday’s scheduled home League Cup tie against Southampton.

But the club announced on Tuesday that they will make the trip to south Wales to face Cardiff this weekend.

A minute’s silence will be observed before kick-off at the Cardiff City Stadium and players will wear black armbands in Vichai’s honour.

“Leicester City’s Premier League fixture at Cardiff City this Saturday will go ahead as scheduled, as the club continues its tributes to its late chairman, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha,” a statement read.  

“An announcement on the rearrangement of the club’s League Cup fourth round tie against Southampton, postponed earlier this week, will be made in due course.”

The death of the charismatic Vichai has stunned the football world, with tributes pouring in from around the globe.

Vichai’s heavy investment after buying Leicester in 2010 transformed the unglamourous club into shock Premier League champions as 5,000-1 outsiders in 2016.

The 60-year-old was widely admired in Leicester for his charitable donations to the local community.

That warmth was reflected in the outpouring of grief following the news of Vichai’s death.

Vichai’s son Aiyawatt and widow Aimon walked through a sea of tributes from fans outside the stadium on Monday, including flowers, football scarves and Buddhist statues.

Vichai’s son is chief executive of his father’s duty-free empire King Power and also vice-chairman of Leicester.

Aiyawatt was joined by the Leicester team, including striker Jamie Vardy, centre-back Harry Maguire and keeper Kasper Schmeichel, with the group pausing in reflection in front of the flowers.

Leicester have also opened a book of condolence in memory of Vichai in a marquee at the stadium.

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Chelsea’s Ianni fined after Mourinho clash

London (AFP) – Chelsea assistant coach Marco Ianni was fined £6,000 ($7,600) by the Football Association on Tuesday after his wild celebrations in front of Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho.

Ianni, who serves as one of Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri’s assistants, sparked a touchline row after celebrating Ross Barkley’s late equaliser in Chelsea’s 2-2 draw against United at Stamford Bridge on October 20.

“Chelsea coach Marco Ianni has been fined £6,000 after he admitted an FA improper conduct charge. It concerned his behaviour in the 96th minute of the game against Manchester United on October 20, 2018,” an FA statement read.

The FA also reminded Mourinho, Chelsea and United of their responsibilities in the aftermath of the explosive incident.

Mourinho was incensed by the way Ianni celebrated Barkley’s goal in front of the United bench, leading the former Chelsea boss to dart off his seat as he chased the Italian towards the tunnel.

The United manager received an apology from both Ianni and Sarri and said he considered the matter closed.

But the FA opened disciplinary proceedings and Ianni has now been fined.

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Nigeria’s Obi Mikel has not quit international football

Abuja (AFP) – Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel has not retired from international football, a team spokesman said Tuesday, despite the former Chelsea star being sidelined for the third straight match.

Mikel, who plays for Chinese side Tianjin Teda, has not played for the Super Eagles since he led the team at the World Cup finals in Russia in June.

He had been given time to recover from a series of injuries but is now back to full fitness yet was not named in Gernot Rohr’s 23-man squad to take on South Africa later this month.

“Mikel has not retired from international football,” said team spokesman Toyin Ibitoye. “He remains the captain of the national team.

“But the reality of it is that he is not getting any younger. And the positive (from this) is that other players now have a chance to step up in his absence.”

Victor Moses, 27, who played alongside Obi Mikel at Chelsea, announced his retirement from international football after the World Cup.

Mikel, 31, made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2005 and has represented the county at Under-17, Under-20 and Olympic team levels.

He has played in two World Cups, in 2014 and 2018.

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Derby boss Lampard eyes ‘special’ return to Chelsea

London (AFP) – Derby boss Frank Lampard is relishing his first return to Chelsea as a manager in the League Cup on Wednesday after dumping Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United out in the previous round.

Lampard is considered to be one of Chelsea’s best-ever players after scoring a club-record 211 goals and winning 11 major trophies between 2001 and 2014, including the Champions League in 2012 and three Premier League titles.

“It’s a special draw for me to be able to go back and see people behind the scenes and 40,000-plus friends in the stadium,” said the 40-year-old ahead of the fourth-round clash at Stamford Bridge.

“I’m more emotional as I have gotten older, I think. These things catch you. Because you realise, in my life, how important Chelsea was and what I owe for that in terms of thanks.”

Lampard is enjoying life at Derby, who are sixth in the second-tier Championship, just four points off top spot.

“This (Derby) is my working home now and I have a great affiliation with this club already. I’m working hard to try to do something good here, and I love it here.

“But I can’t forget 13 years of my career. It was a very special time for me, I was lucky to be part of such a strong era at the club. So it will be a very special night for me to be back there and to feel that atmosphere once again.”

Derby head into the contest having made it through the previous round with a shock triumph on penalties against United, managed by Mourinho, Lampard’s former manager at Chelsea.

Chelsea assistant boss Gianfranco Zola, who played with Lampard at Stamford Bridge, described his former teammate as a “legend of the club”.

“I think you can understand when somebody has a future in this (managerial) position because to succeed as a coach you really need the ability to spend a lot of time thinking over things,” said the Italian. “Frank has always had this ability.

“As a player he had a lot of physicality and technicality, but he spent a lot of energy on football, on and off the pitch.”

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