"Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho: Premier League rivals 'are buying the title"

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho says his Premier League rivals are now the ones attempting to buy their way to glory, a charge that used to levelled at the Blues.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho says that the contenders for the Premier League title are trying to buy silverware.
The current Premier League champions brought in Asmir Begovic and Falcao this summer for minimal fees and have not spent more than £30 million on one player since signing Fernando Torres from Liverpool back in 2011.
The Blues have still spent significant cash on the likes of Diego Costa, Cesc Fabregas, Eden Hazard and Nemanja Matic in recent years, but Mourinho claims that others are now trying to mirror the kind of spending that he enjoyed when he first took over the club in 2004 and lavished over £150m on players like Didier Drogba, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Arjen Robben and Petr Cech.

"In the beginning of Mr Abramovich coming to Chelsea, Chelsea was buying the title," Mourinho said after the friendly win over PSG on Saturday. "Now, they are buying the title. All of them, they are buying the title.
"It is up to us to be strong and to fight them and, obviously, to try and win it again, even without the big investments."
Manchester City spent £49m alone on bringing in Raheem Sterling this summer, while Manchester United and Liverpool have also spent large amounts of money on improving their squads ahead of the new season.

Schweinsteiger joins Manchester United

The experienced German midfielder has ended his 17-year association with Bayern Munich, reuniting with old boss Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford in a £12 million deal

Bastian Schweinsteiger has completed his move to Manchester United from Bayern Munich, signing a three-year contract with the Red Devils.

The Germany international flew into Manchester over the weekend, underwent a medical on Sunday and has now penned personal terms to seal his £12 million move.

The transfer marks a reunion with former Bayern boss Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford, with the Dutchman having been the driving force behind a deal for a player he helped turn into one of the world's best central midfielders.

Van Gaal believes Schweinsteiger's experience will be invaluable to his squad, and will soon be able to partner the German alongside Morgan Schneiderlin after agreeing a deal with Southampton for the Frenchman.

The duo are likely to compete with Michael Carrick, Ander Herrera and Daley Blind for places in United's starting XI next season, while more arrivals - including a centre-back and striker - are expected.

Schweinsteiger won eight Bundesliga titles and the Champions League with Bayern, also winning the World Cup last summer, and has insisted that he was only ever going to leave the Bundesliga giants for a move to United.

He told the club's official website: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Bayern Munich, it has been an incredible journey and I didn’t take the decision to leave lightly.
"Manchester United is the only club that I would have left Munich for. I feel ready for this new and exciting challenge in what I regard as the most competitive league in the world and I am looking forward to working with Louis van Gaal again.

"I will never forget my time at Bayern Munich and I would like to thank everyone at the club and the fans for the great memories."

Floyd Mayweather Jr. stripped of WBO welterweight title

Floyd Mayweather was stripped of the WBO welterweight title
He won by defeating Manny Pacquiao
for failure to comply with the organization's rules.

ESPN - The WBO stripped pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather of his welterweight world title on Monday for his failure to comply with the organization's rules.

Mayweather claimed the WBO welterweight title when he outpointed Manny Pacquiao on May 2 in a 147-pound unification fight that shattered all financial records for a boxing match, including total gross, pay-per-view subscriptions, closed circuit revenue, live gate, foreign television sales and sponsorships.

Mayweather, who holds two other alphabet welterweight world titles, missed the 4:30 p.m. ET Friday deadline by which he had to pay a $200,000 sanctioning fee from the May 2 fight (for which he earned more than $220 million) and vacate the two junior middleweight titles he also holds.


Floyd Mayweather was stripped of the WBO welterweight title he won by defeating Manny Pacquiao for failure to comply with the organization's rules. Joe Camporeale/USA TODAY Sports
"The WBO world championship committee is allowed no other alternative but to cease to recognize Mr. Floyd Mayweather Jr. as the WBO welterweight champion of the world and vacate his title for failing to comply with our WBO regulations of world championship contests," the WBO wrote Monday in its resolution.

It is against sanctioning organization rules for boxers to hold world titles in multiple weight classes. The WBC and WBA had been breaking their own rules by allowing Mayweather to hold their titles, but the WBO upheld its rules.

Typically, the WBO will allow a fighter 10 days to decide which weight class he wants to continue to hold the title in if he wins titles in multiple weight divisions. The WBO gave Mayweather two months to decide.

Once the Friday deadline expired, the WBO sent the issue to its championship committee, which voted Monday afternoon to strip Mayweather of the belt for not complying with either request.

"The WBO has the utmost respect for Floyd Mayweather Jr. and all that he has accomplished during his storied career," the WBO wrote in its resolution. "Mr. Mayweather has always agreed with and understood that world championships have both privileges and responsibilities and that status as WBO champion is subject to and conditioned on compliance with the WBO rules and regulations."

The Mayweather camp was displeased by the ruling.

"It's a complete disgrace," Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe told ESPN.com. "Floyd will decide what, or if any, actions he will take. But in the meantime he's enjoying a couple of hundred million he made from his last outing and this has zero impact on anything he does.

"Floyd Mayweather has a great deal of respect for each and every organization, as he has always had in his 19-year career, but he will not be dictated to by any organization or person as it relates to his decision making."

After Mayweather (48-0, 26 KOs) defeated Pacquiao to unify three of the four major welterweight world titles, he spoke at length at the postfight news conference about how he planned to vacate all his titles in order to give younger fighters the chance to realize their dreams of winning belts.

"I don't know if it will be Monday [May 4] or maybe a couple weeks," Mayweather said in the news conference. "I'll talk to my team and see what we need to do. Other fighters need a chance. Give other fighters a chance. I'm not greedy. I'm a world champion in two different weight classes. It's time to let other fighters fight for the belt."

After Mayweather's pronouncement, the WBO sanctioned the June 27 fight between former titleholder Timothy Bradley Jr. and junior welterweight titlist Jessie Vargas for its vacant welterweight title. When Mayweather heard, he objected to the WBO in a letter from his lawyer, John Hornewer, on May 20. The WBO then laid out to Mayweather what he needed to do to keep the title, namely pay the fee and vacate the junior middleweight belts.

The WBO also reclassified the Bradley-Vargas bout for the interim title. With the WBO withdrawing recognition of Mayweather as its welterweight titleholder, it soon will formally elevate Bradley, who won a unanimous decision against Vargas, to full titleholder.
"I'm not surprised at all because of the individuals involved we're talking about," said Ellerbe, believing that WBO president Francisco "Paco" Valcarcel went out of his way to help Top Rank's Bob Arum, who promotes Bradley and Vargas and who is close to the WBO.

Mayweather has 14 days to file a written appeal with the WBO, but the decision is unlikely to be changed, even if he does appeal. Ellerbe said Mayweather has not decided yet if he plans to appeal.

"We have the best attorney in the game, John Hornewer, and we are fully aware of what our rights are," Ellerbe said. "Floyd will decide what he wants to do."

Mayweather has won 11 world titles in five weight classes, from 130 to 154 pounds, during his brilliant 19-year career. He plans to next fight Sept. 12 -- the opponent has not been announced -- to complete his six-fight contract with Showtime/CBS. The 38-year-old has said that he plans to retire after that.

Manchester United 1-1 Chelsea: Van Persie snatches point at the death

Didier Drogba powered home a trademark header early in the second half but Branislav Ivanovic's red card gifted the hosts the chance to level in injury time in a dramatic finale.
Robin van Persie's last-gasp goal rescued a point for Manchester United as Louis van Gaal and Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho shared a 1-1 draw.
The Portuguese looked to be heading for a famous victory against his one-time mentor at Barcelona after Didier Drogba's second-half strike had given Chelsea the lead.

But deep into injury time - and after Branislav Ivanovic had been sent off for a second bookable

The point means that Chelsea's lead at the Premier League summit is now four points over Southampton, while they are six points better off than Manchester City following the defending champions' 2-1 defeat at West Ham on Saturday.

United, meanwhile, got back to winning ways after their lacklustre 2-2 draw against West Brom on Monday.

Marouane Fellaini was rewarded from his goalscoring appearance in that game with a start in midfield at the expense of Ander Herrera, while Chris Smalling replaced the injured Phil Jones at centre-back.

Diego Costa and Loic Remy missed out for Chelsea due to a virus and a groin problem respectively, meaning Drogba played as their attacking spearhead.

There was a full league debut for Filipe Luis as regular left-back Cesar Azpilicueta began a three-match suspension.

Van Persie led the United attack alone as suspension and injury deprived Van Gaal of Wayne Rooney and Radamel Falcao, and the Dutch striker had his first clear opening in the 23rd minute.

Adnan Januzaj's throughball was threaded through the Chelsea backline but goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was out quickly to block Van Persie’s effort.

Marcos Rojo and Smalling were fortunate not to be penalised for wrestling John Terry and Ivanovic to the ground in the penalty area from a 36th-minute free-kick and Argentina international Rojo continued a shaky start when his error allowed Drogba to test David de Gea.

Playing against his former club, Juan Mata was afforded plenty of room when Angel Di Maria slid a free-kick towards him in first-half stoppage time, but the Spain playmaker shot woefully off target.

Fellaini fired narrowly wide from the edge of the box under pressure at the start of the second half, but Chelsea found the opening goal in the 53rd minute.

After Eden Hazard had cut in from the left flank and exchanged passes with Drogba to draw a superb save from De Gea, the veteran striker escaped Rafael Da Silva's attentions at the near post to head home the resulting set-piece. 

Right-back Ivanovic again made his presence felt in the United area with a storming 69th-minute run but pulled his shot wide from an acute angle.

Courtois denied Van Persie with his legs in the 79th minute but the same player gave the Old Trafford faithful a timely reminder of the late drama of the Alex Ferguson years by levelling the match deep into stoppage time.

Ivanovic earned his red card for bringing down Di Maria, who picked himself up to deliver an excellent free-kick.

Courtois saved well from Fellaini’s header initially, although he was helpless as Van Persie slammed home the rebound to send Van Gaal's men into next weekend's derby against City in high spirits.


offence - Van Persie pounced on a half-cleared free-kick to smash home an equaliser.

Manchester United v Chelsea: Mourinho no plans to change!

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho says the Premier League leaders will look to maintain their positive start to the season at Manchester United on Sunday.

Mourinho famously played without a recognised striker as Chelsea ground out a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford three games into last season.
 But after seven wins in eight games, Mourinho is happy with his tactics.
"We are confident. We are in a good situation and there is no reason for us to change our feeling," he said.  "We try for the best result as always.

"We try to play as good as we are playing and we are always trying to play, respecting an opponent that is one of the best and most difficult in the Premier League."  Chelsea's impressive start to the season has taken them 10 points clear of United, who have struggled to build any sustained momentum under Louis van Gaal.

The Dutchman will be looking to narrow that gap and get the better of Mourinho, who previously worked under him at Barcelona - Mourinho's Inter Milan beat Van Gaal's Bayern Munich 2-0 in the 2010 Champions League final, their only previous meeting.

Van Gaal expects Argentina international Angel Di Maria - who played under Mourinho at Real Madrid - to be fit after picking up a thigh injury in Monday's 2-2 draw at West Bromwich Albion.
 Striker Radamel Falcao could also start after being among the substitutes at the Hawthorns, but Mourinho - who may have top scorer Diego Costa available after injury and illness - claims not to be concerned about United's line-up.

"We are very confident about ourselves. I'm not interested in thinking which team Man United play, who is playing, who is not playing.

"We are playing well, we are confident, we are top of the league, we are in a good position.
"The camp is happy and we are ready for the game."

Manchester United-Chelsea Preview: Costa battling to be fit for Old Trafford encounter

The Brazilian-born Spaniard returned from international duty nursing a groin problem and has also been hospitalised with a virus but still might feature on Sunday.
Diego Costa is battling to be fit in time to help Chelsea to try to maintain their unbeaten start to the Premier League season against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Costa returned from international duty with Spain nursing a groin problem and has also been hospitalised with a virus this week, though boss Jose Mourinho suggested on Friday that his star striker has a "little chance" of featuring against United.

And Louis van Gaal, whose Red Devils lie sixth after a decidedly mixed start to the season, would not be surprised to see Costa's name on the Chelsea team sheet on Sunday afternoon.

"I think that Jose shall play with him when he can because he wants to win," the Dutchman told reporters.

"Of course he can play, maybe, because he has trained individually. I have heard and read on the websites. I also have my eyes always open.

"He's scored nine [goals] out of seven [games] - that is remarkable so he's in good shape, I think, but he was ill [on Thursday] so you never know."

Chelsea hold a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League after claiming seven wins and a draw from their fine start to the season. United sit 10 points behind, having already tasted defeat against Swansea City and Leicester City, and Van Gaal acknowledges that his side face a stiff challenge on Sunday.

"Chelsea are one of the top teams, I think also Manchester City are at the moment," he added.

"Jose has worked more than one year already with his team and last year they didn't win any prizes so you have to build up and he has built up Chelsea. They are playing like a team and I want my team to do that as well but to play for 90 minutes.

"We did that against West Brom [on Monday in a 2-2 draw], played as a team, but we also made individual errors. That was our problem."

United will again be without captain Wayne Rooney as he completes a three-game suspension, while Michael Carrick (ankle) remains short of match fitness, though talisman Angel Di Maria has been passed fit following a thigh injury scare.

Loic Remy has been ruled out for Chelsea after picking up a groin injury in a midweek Champions League rout of Maribor, leaving veteran Didier Drogba the likely man to lead the line from the start, though Andre Schurrle is also back in the squad.

Mourinho was content to play it safe when settling for a goalless draw at Old Trafford early last season but insists that he wants a win this time around.

"We are playing well, we are confident, we are top of the league and we are in a good position to qualify in the Champions League," he declared to reporters. "The camp is happy and we are ready for the game.

"We go to every match to win but sometimes during a game a point is a positive point and a positive result. Last year, at a certain moment the game was very difficult to win and I think both teams accepted the point as a normal result.

"On Sunday we go to win. If you give me one point now - and we don't have to play the game - I will not accept it. I want to fight for the three points."

Pistorius sentencing: Steenkamp's family seeks jail term

Pistorius' lawyer said prisoners had made threats against the athlete
South African athlete Oscar Pistorius should be given "sufficient punishment" for killing his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, her cousin has told the sentencing hearing in Pretoria.
Kim Martin said Pistorius, 27, "needs to pay for what he has done".
He was convicted of culpable homicide last month but cleared of murder and faces up to 15 years in jail, but the judge may suspend it or impose a fine.
Prisons chief Moleko Modise later said the athlete would be safe in prison.
He was responding to a defence witness who said the disabled athlete would be "broken" by prison, with his lawyers saying he should instead serve house arrest and community service for the killing.
Judge Thokozile Masipa has adjourned the sentencing hearing until Friday morning.
The BBC's Andrew Harding in Pretoria says it appears that the sentence itself will be delivered on Tuesday.
'Not seeking revenge'
Ms Martin - the prosecution's first sentencing witness - said on Thursday that she was fearful of Pistorius.
"My family are not people who are seeking revenge, we just feel that to shoot somebody behind a door that is unarmed, that is harmless, needs sufficient punishment," she said.
On Wednesday, Ms Martin recounted her pain at hearing that the 29-year-old South African model had been shot dead, saying her death was "the end of the world".
We got glimpses in court on Thursday both of the prison life Oscar Pistorius can expect if Judge Masipa chooses a custodial sentence for him, and of the rather abrasive characters who once were part of his social circle.
In recent days the public gallery in courtroom D has seen an influx of conspicuously muscular men who've sat close to Reeva Steenkamp's family. Marc Batchelor is a former footballer and debt collector who has clashed with Pistorius in the past. Mikey Schultz is a self-confessed killer and former boxer. Mark Strydom is, according to legal sources, on parole after serving time for attempted murder and assault.
At one point Mr Schultz and Mr Strydom sat, unexpectedly, on the bench reserved for the Pistorius family, and according to the defendant's brother Carl, Mr Schultz mouthed an obscenity at his sister Aimee, leaving her in tears. Mr Schultz told me later that he'd done no such thing but agreed with Mr Strydom and Mr Batchelor that, in his opinion, Oscar Pistorius was "a murderer" who was "getting off lightly".
Moleko Modise, the Acting National Commissioner for Correctional Services, was later called to defend the reputation of South African prisons, which he said "can cope" with disabled prisoners like Pistorius.
He said that a health assessment was conducted on all inmates "within six hours of admission", and a complete assessment would be completed within 21 days to consider the "security classification" and "social and psychological needs" of the prisoner.
Under cross-examination from defence lawyer Barry Roux, Mr Modise said he thought Pistorius should be placed in the hospital wing of a prison, not the regular section.
Mr Roux cited reports of undiagnosed tuberculosis in South African prisons, as well as rising numbers of incidents of assault and torture in the past year.
Under questioning, Mr Modise said there was one resident doctor for about 7,000 inmates at the Kgosi Mampuru prison in Pretoria.
Mr Roux also said several newspapers had reported threats made by prisoners against Pistorius. However, Mr Modise said he was not aware of any threats being made against Pistorius.
Prosecutor Gerrie Nel has said he will call three or four witnesses in all.
'Pistorius vulnerable'
Earlier in the week, social worker Annette Vergeer said double-amputee Pistorius should be placed under house arrest rather than sent to prison, because he would be "a lot more vulnerable than the normal man" in jail.
Mr Nel said her opinion of a sentence of house arrest plus community service "cannot be considered".
"If the court sentence is too light, and society loses trust in the court, they will take the law into their own hands," Mr Nel said.
"That's what the court has to guard against."
The Paralympic sprinter denied murdering Ms Steenkamp after a row on Valentine's Day last year, saying he shot her by mistake, fearing there was an intruder in the house.
Ms Steenkamp, a law graduate, was hit three times by bullets shot through a toilet door by Pistorius at his home in the capital, Pretoria.

Chelsea stays top of EPL after managerial spat boils over

Arsene Wenger and Jose Mourinho's uneasy relationship hit a new low as their ugly managerial spat overshadowed Chelsea's 2-0 win over Arsenal Sunday to extend its lead at the top of the English Premier League.

The pair squared up to each other and had to be separated by the fourth official after Wenger shoved Mourinho in the Chelsea technical area.

The Arsenal boss was angered by Gary Cahill's challenge on Alexis Sanchez but the pair's seething rivalry has been a constant theme in the English football soap opera.

Back in March, Mourinho labeled Wenger a "specialist in failure" and then his side rubbed salt into the open wound by thrashing Arsenal 6-0.

It was also Wenger's 1,000th game in charge of the Gunners and he has now failed to beat his Portuguese nemesis in 12 tries.

After the touchline incident, Chelsea proceeded to take the lead through Eden Hazard's first-half penalty after he was fouled by Laurent Koscielny.

Arsenal was always a factor in a closely-fought match at Stamford Bridge and might have had a penalty when former player Cesc Fabregas appeared to block Jack Wilshere's shot in the area in the second half.

Fabregas, whose signing by Chelsea from Barcelona dismayed Arsenal fans who hoped he might return to the Emirates, then set up Diego Costa for the clinching goal.

His pinpoint pass, his seventh assist in the EPL this season, left Costa to score his ninth in seven games since moving from Atletico Madrid, another key Mourinho signing.

The win left Chelsea five points clear of Manchester City at the top, with Arsenal in eighth, already nine points adrift.

Both manager tried to play down the incident in post-match press conferences.

"Forget that (the push). A football pitch is a football pitch, so no problem," said Mourinho. "It becomes heated because this is a big game, big clubs, big rivals, an iportant match for both teams. These conditions make a game of emotions.

Wenger was asked if he regretted the incident. "What is to regret after that? I wanted to go from A to B and somebody confronted me in between without any sign of welcome," said the Frenchman.

"B was Sanchez, to see how badly he was injured," he claimed.

Earlier, Manchester United moved up to fourth with a 2-1 win over Everton at Old Trafford, but owed a lot to the goalkeeping heroics of David De Gea, who saved a first half penalty from Leighton Baines.

United were already ahead through Angel Di Maria, but the visitors pulled level when Steven Naismith scored in the 55th minute.

Colombian star Radamel Falcao put Louis Van Gaal's men ahead just after the hour with his first goal in English football before De Gea denied Leon Osman with a stunning save to preserve three points for his side.

The epic shootout: Liverpool edge out Middlesbrough on penalties in round three, Capital One Cup

Liverpool held their nerve to see off Middlesbrough 14-13 on penalties following a 2-2 draw in the third round of the Capital One Cup.

The epic shootout, which was only settled when Boro's Albert Adomah missed with the 30th spot-kick, equalled the British record for the highest-scoring post-match contest, set over three years ago when Dagenham and Redbridge edged past Leyton Orient in a Football League Trophy tie.
After failures from Patrick Bamford and Raheem Sterling, the next 20 penalties in sudden death were all converted - until Adomah sent his effort wide.
Teenage midfielder Jordan Rossiter, a product of the Anfield academy system, had needed less than 10 minutes of normal time to make a significant contribution on his senior debut, but Adam Reach equalised for Boro to send the match past the 90-minute mark.
Suso stepped off the bench to put the hosts back in front in the second half of extra-time, but a moment of madness from Kolo Toure in the dying stages presented Bamford with an opportunity to level from the spot, resulting in the shootout which eventually put Liverpool into the fourth-round draw.
Early on in the match, a breakdown in communication between Boro goalkeeper Jamal Blackman and defender Kenneth Omeruo resulted in the pair being caught out of position and, despite Blackman blocking from Rickie Lambert, Anfield academy product Rossiter took full advantage to guide the ball into the back of the net from 35 yards out.

Jordan Rossiter: Enjoyed a dream start to his senior debut

Parity was restored just past the hour mark when Grant Leadbitter swung over a dangerous free-kick and Reach displayed the greater desire in a battle with Jose Enrique to nod in from close range.
It took until the 109th minute for Brendan Rodgers’ side to break through for a second time, with neat play from Adam Lallana leading to a scramble inside the Boro box which allowed Suso to drill low through a crowd of bodies on the line.
That looked like being enough, but a clumsy challenge from Toure on Bamford allowed the latter - on loan from Chelsea - to calmly stroke home from 12 yards in stoppage-time.
The 21-year-old then saw his effort in the resulting shoot-out saved by Simon Mignolet, but Sterling also failed from 12 yards and with the tie taken deep into sudden death, Adomah ended up being the fall guy as he blazed wide with the 30th kick of an astonishing contest.

Rodgers' post-match reaction

Pressure
Rodgers suggested in the build-up to the game that the Liverpool shirt being "heavy" for incoming players to wear due to the pressure of expectation had been a contributing factor to the Reds' slow start to the season.
But there was little evidence of 17-year-old midfielder Rossiter experiencing such a feeling as his first senior appearance began with a bang.
Sterling chased a long pass over the top which Omeruo and Blackman got in a mess trying to deal with, and the latter then managed to get in the way of a follow-up shot by Lambert, the captain for the night making his first Liverpool start.
The loose ball fell to Rossiter, who caught out Blackman - a debutant himself, also on loan from Chelsea - with a calm, first-time shot into the net.

Adam Reach: Nodded home from close range

That the Liverpool youngster should appear so immediately comfortable in the team is perhaps unsurprising - he has been with the club's academy since under-six level.
But there seemed to be a malaise creeping back in for Rodgers' team, which showed seven changes from Saturday's 3-1 loss at West Ham, as the first half went on.
After Lallana struck wide in the 25th minute, the visitors started to show some threat, with Kike sending a volley over via a Lambert deflection and Mignolet then doing well to push away a powerful Lee Tomlin strike.
Boro kept pressing as the second half got under way, with Tomlin firing wide.

Karanka proud of players

Perseverance
And their perseverance was duly rewarded when Leadbitter swung in a free-kick from just outside the corner of the area and hesitant Liverpool defending saw Reach get to the ball ahead of Enrique and glance in.
Sterling looked to reply but could only shoot at Blackman, and Reach was then unable to divert another headed effort on target.
Liverpool had penalty claims turned down when Lallana went to ground under the attentions of Ryan Fredericks, and after a further appeal for a handball just outside the box equally was also ignored, Lazar Markovic's through-ball to Sterling was intercepted by a last-ditch tackle.

Patrick Bamford: Mixed fortunes from the penalty spot

Rodgers sent on Mario Balotelli for Lambert and Mignolet then pulled off a fine diving save to keep out a Clayton shot that that looked bound for the net.
Boro sensed the upset was on and Clayton almost sealed it with five minutes of normal time remaining when he latched on to a superb pass from Tomlin and shot against the woodwork.
At the other end, Balotelli scuffed wide as he lost his footing, and the hosts' penalty cries went unheeded once again in stoppage time as Boro's former Liverpool defender Daniel Ayala appeared to handle while trying to clear a cross.

Mignolet and Rossiter reflect on epic encounter

The Reds showed little conviction with their finishing in extra-time until the ball broke to Suso - who had come on for Markovic - from a goalmouth scramble and the Spaniard slotted in.
Liverpool looked to be almost over the line, but Boro were not finished and they found themselves back in the game at the death when Bamford, clumsily brought down by Toure, put away the resulting penalty.
That set up a shoot-out which will stay in the memory - but will not be remembered with any fondness by Adomah.

South Africa not a threat to Nigeria- Eguavoen

Former Super Eagles player and Coach, Austin Cerezo Eguavoen has dismissed talks about South Africa posing a threat to Nigeria in the 2015 African Nations Cup qualifiers. Nigeria will tomorrow in Cape Town play against South Africa for their second game of the qualifying series,looking to continue with their dominance over the Bafana Bafana. Eguavoen believes that the Super Eagles have enough in their armoury to see out the South Africans, adding that their level of confidence will help them win the game. “When you are a champion, people will always try to pull you down but I am not too worried because we are blessed with talent and we have done it before so I am confident that we will do it again. A team must know its strength and weaknesses but winning games would give the team confidence”The former national team handler told footballlive.ng Nigeria lost their last game against Congo,and would be hoping to get a win against South Africa to put them back in contention to qualify for the 2015 Nations Cup in South Africa.

“It won’t be an easy walk in the park” – South Africa coach warns Super Eagles

South Africa on the other hand, are not exactly brimming with confidence despite defeating Sudan 3-0 in Khartoum in their first match of the AFCON qualifying series.

“This Nigeria team has been giving us nightmares, but we will fight in every game”, Mashaba admitted.

“When two Elephants meet, it is grass that suffers. Watch out, brace yourself for war that day [when Mashaba meets Keshi], because, like I have indicated earlier on, they [Nigeria], have given us sleepless nights.”

Nigeria have maintained an edge over their opponents for a long time and Mashaba feels a win on Wednesday, will change a lot of things.

“This is one time they must brace themselves for war up to the fullest, it won’t be an easy walk in the park for both teams, but what we are looking for is to come out victorious and that win will change a lot of things in our football, both in administration, media wise, any structure that you talk about,” Mashaba added. We win that game [and] things will change for the better.

AFCON QUALIFIER: We’ll beat Super Eagles – South Africa

Following a resounding 3-0 win over Sudan in Khartoum on Friday in their 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualification match, midfielder Sibusiso Vilakazi says Bafana Bafana must not become complacent when they face Nigeria in Cape Town on Wednesday, SPORT24 reports. The Super Eagles fell to a 3-2 loss to Congo in their opening qualifier match on Saturday, and Vilakazi was optimistic his side could get a win at home. “We know our history against Nigeria but we are determined to change all that. History is always there to be rewritten and I am confident that come on Wednesday, we will put smiles on most South Africans faces.” He added, “We just need to keep our feet grounded and the rest will follow. The players know what it means to represent one’s country. They know that behind their backs that they are carrying the hopes of 52 million people.” Vilakazi said a more committed mental approach was one of the reasons behind Bafana’s resounding victory over Sudan . Vilakazi came on as a substitute in the second half and scored the first two goals for South Africa as they surged ahead, but warned the focus should be on their second qualifier match against Nigeria in Cape Town on Wednesday. “That is one philosophy coach Shakes Mashaba has been drumming home now and again and I am seeing the attitude of players has tremendously changed. “They are prepared to die for a just cause, work for each other and want to bring pride and happiness to the country. That is the type of task any responsible citizen needs to carry to make a difference in society.” Captain Senzo Meyiwa said with the type of atmosphere in the Bafana camp, the Eagles would face a stiff opposition. “Yes, they say in soccer certain teams have their hoodoo side but we are ready for the Nigeria match,” said Meyiwa. “We are all determined to change the course of history and everyone cannot wait for Wednesday.”

Red Devils Roast Super Eagles, AFCON Qualifiers

Reigning African champions Nigeria began its 2015 Cup of African Nations qualifying campaign on a low following a shock 3-2 loss to Congo at the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar.
The Super Eagles were the better side in the opening exchanges and duly took the lead in the 14th minute through defender Efe Ambrose, who headed in fellow defender Elderson Echiejile’s ball.
The lead was however shortlived as the Congolese levelled three minutes later through Prince Oniangue, before going on to silence the Calabar crowd just before half-time when Thiery Bifouma put the visitors ahead.
Bifouma was on hand to extend Congo’s lead 10 minutes into the second half, converting a penalty earned after Echiejile brought him down in the area.
Lazio midfielder Ogenyi Onazi saw an effort flash just wide of the Congo goal moments later as the Super Eagles desperately sought to find a way back.
Substitute Nosa Igiebor summed up the day for the Eagles with seven minutes to go, when he scooped an effort over the Congo goal from just three yards out after being teed up by fellow substitute Emmanuel Emenike.
Another substitute Gbolahan Salami however pulled a goal back for Nigeria in stoppage time with a close range effort, but it proved a consolation as Congo held on to claim three crucial points and inflict a first competitive home loss in 33 years on Nigeria .
The result sees Congo occupy second spot in Group A after the opening round of matches, with South Africa on top courtesy of a better goal difference after the Bafana Bafana got a 3-0 win over Sudan on Friday.
For Nigeria, the result compounds the crisis in which the country’s football finds itself, with a FIFA suspension hanging over the Nigeria Football Federation unless the NFF meets FIFA’s ultimatum for Chris Giwa to step down as NFF President.
Meanwhile in some other qualifying matches played today, Cameroun won 2-0 at DR Congo to top Group D ahead of Cote D’Ivoire that came from behind to claim a 2-1 win over Sierra Leone in Abidjan.
The Black Stars of Ghana were held to a shock 1-1 by the Cranes of Uganda in Group E while Algeria’s Desert Foxes edged Ethiopia 2-1 in a Group B match played in Addis Ababa.
Surprise package at AFCON 2013, Cape Verde eased to a 3-1 win at Niger, a result that sent the island nation top of Group F following the goalless draw between Zambia and Mozambique in the other group match.
AFCON 2013 finalists Burkina Faso began its qualifying campaign in Group C with a 2-0 win at home to Lesotho while Gabon got a lone goal win at home to Angola in the other group match in Libreville.

Reigning African champions Nigeria began its 2015 Cup of African Nations qualifying campaign on a low following a shock 3-2 loss to Congo at the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar.
The Super Eagles were the better side in the opening exchanges and duly took the lead in the 14th minute through defender Efe Ambrose, who headed in fellow defender Elderson Echiejile’s ball.
The lead was however shortlived as the Congolese levelled three minutes later through Prince Oniangue, before going on to silence the Calabar crowd just before half-time when Thiery Bifouma put the visitors ahead.
Bifouma was on hand to extend Congo’s lead 10 minutes into the second half, converting a penalty earned after Echiejile brought him down in the area.
Lazio midfielder Ogenyi Onazi saw an effort flash just wide of the Congo goal moments later as the Super Eagles desperately sought to find a way back.
Substitute Nosa Igiebor summed up the day for the Eagles with seven minutes to go, when he scooped an effort over the Congo goal from just three yards out after being teed up by fellow substitute Emmanuel Emenike.
Another substitute Gbolahan Salami however pulled a goal back for Nigeria in stoppage time with a close range effort, but it proved a consolation as Congo held on to claim three crucial points and inflict a first competitive home loss in 33 years on Nigeria .
The result sees Congo occupy second spot in Group A after the opening round of matches, with South Africa on top courtesy of a better goal difference after the Bafana Bafana got a 3-0 win over Sudan on Friday.
For Nigeria, the result compounds the crisis in which the country’s football finds itself, with a FIFA suspension hanging over the Nigeria Football Federation unless the NFF meets FIFA’s ultimatum for Chris Giwa to step down as NFF President.
Meanwhile in some other qualifying matches played today, Cameroun won 2-0 at DR Congo to top Group D ahead of Cote D’Ivoire that came from behind to claim a 2-1 win over Sierra Leone in Abidjan.
The Black Stars of Ghana were held to a shock 1-1 by the Cranes of Uganda in Group E while Algeria’s Desert Foxes edged Ethiopia 2-1 in a Group B match played in Addis Ababa.
Surprise package at AFCON 2013, Cape Verde eased to a 3-1 win at Niger, a result that sent the island nation top of Group F following the goalless draw between Zambia and Mozambique in the other group match.
AFCON 2013 finalists Burkina Faso began its qualifying campaign in Group C with a 2-0 win at home to Lesotho while Gabon got a lone goal win at home to Angola in the other group match in Libreville.
Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi, said on Saturday that the team’s loss to the Congolese national team will serve as a wakeup call to his players. Keshi spoke to sport writers in Calabar shortly after Nigeria lost by 3-2 to Congo in Africa Nations cup qualifying match. “Its a shame that we had opportunities and we could not score, mostly in the second half. “In the first half, they were winning by 2-1, its part of the game. Maybe it will be a good lesson for the players, may be too much confidence and let’s see how the game will go in South Africa,” he said. Keshi also said that at the interval, he told his players to play their normal game and in the second half they really woke up. On their second match against South Africa, next week, Keshi said, “we have to win, if we will qualify. “To Nigerians, we say this kind of thing happens at times, this is football,” Keshi said. Vice President of Congo Football Federation, Mr. John Paul Fouane, told the News Agency of Nigeria that despite their victory, Nigeria had a good team. “I am very happy because Nigeria is a good team. We were surprised at the outcome of the match. “Today is not good for Nigeria and Nigeria should not be underrated. Nigeria is still good and has chances of qualifying for the Nations cup,” he said. Nigeria had scored the first goal in the 15th minute when Efe Ambrose nodded in a pullout from Ahmed Musa. Congo equalised in the 17th minute through Oniangue Chince. Congo’s midfielder, Bifouma Thievy, scored the second goal in the 42nd minute and the third in the 50th minute through a penalty kick. Gbolahon Salami scored the second goal for Nigeria in the 89th minute.

Read more at: http://www.today.ng/sports/eagles-home-loss-a-wake-up-call-keshi/

Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi, said on Saturday that the team’s loss to the Congolese national team will serve as a wakeup call to his players. Keshi spoke to sport writers in Calabar shortly after Nigeria lost by 3-2 to Congo in Africa Nations cup qualifying match. “Its a shame that we had opportunities and we could not score, mostly in the second half. “In the first half, they were winning by 2-1, its part of the game. Maybe it will be a good lesson for the players, may be too much confidence and let’s see how the game will go in South Africa,” he said. Keshi also said that at the interval, he told his players to play their normal game and in the second half they really woke up. On their second match against South Africa, next week, Keshi said, “we have to win, if we will qualify. “To Nigerians, we say this kind of thing happens at times, this is football,” Keshi said. Vice President of Congo Football Federation, Mr. John Paul Fouane, told the News Agency of Nigeria that despite their victory, Nigeria had a good team. “I am very happy because Nigeria is a good team. We were surprised at the outcome of the match. “Today is not good for Nigeria and Nigeria should not be underrated. Nigeria is still good and has chances of qualifying for the Nations cup,” he said. Nigeria had scored the first goal in the 15th minute when Efe Ambrose nodded in a pullout from Ahmed Musa. Congo equalised in the 17th minute through Oniangue Chince. Congo’s midfielder, Bifouma Thievy, scored the second goal in the 42nd minute and the third in the 50th minute through a penalty kick. Gbolahon Salami scored the second goal for Nigeria in the 89th minute.

Read more at: http://www.today.ng/sports/eagles-home-loss-a-wake-up-call-keshi/

Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi, said on Saturday that the team’s loss to the Congolese national team will serve as a wakeup call to his players. Keshi spoke to sport writers in Calabar shortly after Nigeria lost by 3-2 to Congo in Africa Nations cup qualifying match. “Its a shame that we had opportunities and we could not score, mostly in the second half. “In the first half, they were winning by 2-1, its part of the game. Maybe it will be a good lesson for the players, may be too much confidence and let’s see how the game will go in South Africa,” he said. Keshi also said that at the interval, he told his players to play their normal game and in the second half they really woke up. On their second match against South Africa, next week, Keshi said, “we have to win, if we will qualify. “To Nigerians, we say this kind of thing happens at times, this is football,” Keshi said. Vice President of Congo Football Federation, Mr. John Paul Fouane, told the News Agency of Nigeria that despite their victory, Nigeria had a good team. “I am very happy because Nigeria is a good team. We were surprised at the outcome of the match. “Today is not good for Nigeria and Nigeria should not be underrated. Nigeria is still good and has chances of qualifying for the Nations cup,” he said. Nigeria had scored the first goal in the 15th minute when Efe Ambrose nodded in a pullout from Ahmed Musa. Congo equalised in the 17th minute through Oniangue Chince. Congo’s midfielder, Bifouma Thievy, scored the second goal in the 42nd minute and the third in the 50th minute through a penalty kick. Gbolahon Salami scored the second goal for Nigeria in the 89th minute.

Read more at: http://www.today.ng/sports/eagles-home-loss-a-wake-up-call-keshi/

Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi, said on Saturday that the team’s loss to the Congolese national team will serve as a wakeup call to his players. Keshi spoke to sport writers in Calabar shortly after Nigeria lost by 3-2 to Congo in Africa Nations cup qualifying match. “Its a shame that we had opportunities and we could not score, mostly in the second half. “In the first half, they were winning by 2-1, its part of the game. Maybe it will be a good lesson for the players, may be too much confidence and let’s see how the game will go in South Africa,” he said. Keshi also said that at the interval, he told his players to play their normal game and in the second half they really woke up. On their second match against South Africa, next week, Keshi said, “we have to win, if we will qualify. “To Nigerians, we say this kind of thing happens at times, this is football,” Keshi said. Vice President of Congo Football Federation, Mr. John Paul Fouane, told the News Agency of Nigeria that despite their victory, Nigeria had a good team. “I am very happy because Nigeria is a good team. We were surprised at the outcome of the match. “Today is not good for Nigeria and Nigeria should not be underrated. Nigeria is still good and has chances of qualifying for the Nations cup,” he said. Nigeria had scored the first goal in the 15th minute when Efe Ambrose nodded in a pullout from Ahmed Musa. Congo equalised in the 17th minute through Oniangue Chince. Congo’s midfielder, Bifouma Thievy, scored the second goal in the 42nd minute and the third in the 50th minute through a penalty kick. Gbolahon Salami scored the second goal for Nigeria in the 89th minute.

Read more at: http://www.today.ng/sports/eagles-home-loss-a-wake-up-call-keshi/

Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi, said on Saturday that the team’s loss to the Congolese national team will serve as a wakeup call to his players. Keshi spoke to sport writers in Calabar shortly after Nigeria lost by 3-2 to Congo in Africa Nations cup qualifying match. “Its a shame that we had opportunities and we could not score, mostly in the second half. “In the first half, they were winning by 2-1, its part of the game. Maybe it will be a good lesson for the players, may be too much confidence and let’s see how the game will go in South Africa,” he said. Keshi also said that at the interval, he told his players to play their normal game and in the second half they really woke up. On their second match against South Africa, next week, Keshi said, “we have to win, if we will qualify. “To Nigerians, we say this kind of thing happens at times, this is football,” Keshi said. Vice President of Congo Football Federation, Mr. John Paul Fouane, told the News Agency of Nigeria that despite their victory, Nigeria had a good team. “I am very happy because Nigeria is a good team. We were surprised at the outcome of the match. “Today is not good for Nigeria and Nigeria should not be underrated. Nigeria is still good and has chances of qualifying for the Nations cup,” he said. Nigeria had scored the first goal in the 15th minute when Efe Ambrose nodded in a pullout from Ahmed Musa. Congo equalised in the 17th minute through Oniangue Chince. Congo’s midfielder, Bifouma Thievy, scored the second goal in the 42nd minute and the third in the 50th minute through a penalty kick. Gbolahon Salami scored the second goal for Nigeria in the 89th minute.

Read more at: http://www.today.ng/sports/eagles-home-loss-a-wake-up-call-keshi/

Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi, said on Saturday that the team’s loss to the Congolese national team will serve as a wakeup call to his players. Keshi spoke to sport writers in Calabar shortly after Nigeria lost by 3-2 to Congo in Africa Nations cup qualifying match. “Its a shame that we had opportunities and we could not score, mostly in the second half. “In the first half, they were winning by 2-1, its part of the game. Maybe it will be a good lesson for the players, may be too much confidence and let’s see how the game will go in South Africa,” he said. Keshi also said that at the interval, he told his players to play their normal game and in the second half they really woke up. On their second match against South Africa, next week, Keshi said, “we have to win, if we will qualify. “To Nigerians, we say this kind of thing happens at times, this is football,” Keshi said. Vice President of Congo Football Federation, Mr. John Paul Fouane, told the News Agency of Nigeria that despite their victory, Nigeria had a good team. “I am very happy because Nigeria is a good team. We were surprised at the outcome of the match. “Today is not good for Nigeria and Nigeria should not be underrated. Nigeria is still good and has chances of qualifying for the Nations cup,” he said. Nigeria had scored the first goal in the 15th minute when Efe Ambrose nodded in a pullout from Ahmed Musa. Congo equalised in the 17th minute through Oniangue Chince. Congo’s midfielder, Bifouma Thievy, scored the second goal in the 42nd minute and the third in the 50th minute through a penalty kick. Gbolahon Salami scored the second goal for Nigeria in the 89th minute.

Read more at: http://www.today.ng/sports/eagles-home-loss-a-wake-up-call-keshi/

Maximum points maintained

An absolute cracker of a match at Goodison Park saw Chelsea continue our impressive start to the season with another win, this time 6-3 against Everton.

Our 100 per cent record was extended in the Premier League, making us one of only two teams to have won all their matches so far, and another potent attacking display took us to a total of 11 goals in those three games, fully five more than the next best in the division.

It's hard to imagine a better start to a match than the Blues enjoyed in Liverpool on Saturday, as it took us just 35 seconds to take the lead. Another fine passing move straight from the kick-off ended with Cesc Fabregas playing Diego Costa through on goal, with Everton's first touch of the ball coming as goalkeeper Tim Howard failed to prevent the Spanish international's powerful low shot finding the back of the net.

The Blues fans had barely finished their celebrations when they were back on their feet, this time Branislav Ivanovic getting his name on the score sheet after confidently converting Ramires's pass, putting us two goals ahead in less than three minutes.

The home side gradually regrouped as the first half went on and found themselves a lifeline just before the break when Kevin Mirallas headed in Seamus Coleman's cross, but the the real excitement was saved for the second period.

The half started with a flurry of chances as Howard denied John Terry and Diego Costa as tempo increased to a breathless pace and on 67 minutes we were two up again, when Coleman diverted Eden Hazard's low cross into his own net.

That sparked an incredible 10 minutes that saw five goals, with the two teams exchanging blows. It was Everton's Steven Naismith who found the net next, before Nemanja Matic responded almost instantly be scoring his first-ever Chelsea goal with a low drive from the edge of the box that went in off the post.

It was then Samuel Eto'o's turn, as the former Blues striker pulled a goal back with a clever header from a set-piece, but then Matic turned provider with a swift one-two to allow Ramires to jab the ball past Howard and make it 5-3.

Thibaut Courtois finally broke the spell with an excellent save to prevent his fellow Belgian international Mirallas scoring a second and Filipe Luis was introduced for his Blues debut to sure things up at the back in the final minutes.

As it was, another substitute, John Mikel Obi, helped to kill the game off at last, racing on to Muhamed Besic's errant pass and neatly teeing up Diego Costa with a back-heel. The striker's finish was even better, wrong-footing a defender and the goalkeeper with a quick step-over before slotting home his fourth goal of the season, leaving Jose Mourinho satisfied after seeing his team provide such an entertaining attacking performance despite conceding three goals.

After all that excitement perhaps it is a good thing that the Chelsea supporters have a week off to recover, as the international break means our next match isn't until 13 September, when we take on Swansea City at Stamford Bridge.

There will be no such rest for many of the Blues players, though, as they head off on international duty for the first matches since the World Cup.

Andre Schurrle and his Germany team-mates were in friendly action against Argentina last night in a repeat of July's final. They begin their European Championship qualifying campaign against Scotland on Sunday.

Gary Cahill and Petr Cech also have their first qualifying games for that tournament, as England take on Switzerland on Monday and the Czech Republic face the Netherlands a day later. Diego Costa, Fabregasand Cesar Azpilicueta – the last of those fresh from signing a new five-year contract with Chelsea – are in Spain's squad for their opening qualifier with Macedonia on Monday.

New signing Loic Remy could get a close look at some of his Chelsea team-mates in action, as he is in France's squad to face that Spanish side tonight, before playing a second friendly versus Ivanovic andMatic's Serbia on Sunday. Courtois is also in friendly action tonight, as Belgium host Australia.

There is also qualifying action getting under way in Africa, as Mikel's Nigeria and Mohamed Salah's Egypt begin their journey to January's 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.

There is no competitive action for Brazil, although new boss Dunga has called up Ramires, Oscar, Willianand Filipe Luis for their friendlies against Colombia and Ecuador.

Remy Arrives

The last few days of the summer transfer window saw Jose Mourinho add the final piece to his Chelsea puzzle, as Loic Remy became the final player to join the Blues ahead of Monday's deadline. The French forward, who made two appearances for his country at the this year's World Cup, and penned a four-year contract upon joining from our west London neighbours Queens Park Rangers. 'I feel very happy and very proud,' said Remy. 'When I heard Chelsea wanted to sign me I said “let's go” straight away because they are one of the best clubs in the world. 'I wanted to play in the Champions League this season so that was another of my motivations for coming here. I know that Chelsea can win the Champions League this season because there is so much quality in the squad. The first thing to aim for is winning titles.' The 27-year-old will be familiar to Chelsea fans after his time in the Premier League with QPR and on loan at Newcastle United last season, having scored a total of 20 top-flight goals in England, including one against the Blues for the Magpies in November 2013. He also has previous Champions League experience from his time with Lyon and Marseille in France, as well as five goals to his name at international level. Remy became our eighth new signing of this transfer following the arrivals of Diego Costa, Didier Drogba, Cesc Fabregas and Filipe Luis, plus youngsters Mario Pasalic, Josimar Quintero and Jhoao Rodriguez. There were also several Chelsea players who moved on loan in the final days of the transfer window. Fernando Torres will spend the next two years at AC Milan, having helped us to win the Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup since his transfer to Chelsea from Liverpool in January 2011. The 30-year-old will be playing alongside Marco van Ginkel in 2014/15, after the Dutch midfielder joined him on loan at the Italian club. Goalkeeper Jamal Blackman and striker Patrick Bamford will also be team-mates in the coming months, having both joined Championship side Middlesbrough until January. Nathaniel Chalobah is staying in the Premier League, with the 19-year-old England Under-21 international playing for Burnley for the first half of the campaign. Islam Feruz has gone abroad to play for OFI Crete in the Greek top flight, while Ulises Davila has joined Spain's CD Tenerife and Matej Delac has moved to Arles-Avignon in France. The following players had already gone on loan during this summer's transfer window: Christian Atsu (Everton), Ryan Bertrand (Southampton), Cristian Cuevas (Universidad de Chile), Thorgan Hazard (Borussia Monchengladbach), Gael Kakuta (Rayo Vallecano), Tomas Kalas (Koln), Marko Marin (Fiorentina), Josh McEachran (Vitesse), Victor Moses (Stoke City), Kenneth Omeruo (Middlesbrough), Mario Pasalic (Elche), Stipe Perica (NAC Breda), Lucas Piazon (Eintracht Frankfurt), Jhoao Rodriguez (Bastia), Oriol Romeu (Stuttgart), John Swift (Rotherham United), Bertrand Traore (Vitesse), Wallace (Vitesse).

Ronaldo named UEFA Best Player in Europe

Cristiano Ronaldo's contribution to Real Madrid CF's UEFA Champions League triumph last season has been recognised with the UEFA Best Player in Europe Award.

The Portugal captain received the 2013/14 accolade at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco from UEFA President Michel Platini. Ronaldo, among the final nominees for the fourth successive year, finished ahead of FC Bayern München's Arjen Robben and Manuel Neuer in a live vote by a panel of 54 journalists who had to select, via an electronic system, their favourite from a three-man short list announced a fortnight ago.

Ronaldo, speaking during a ceremony that followed the UEFA Champions League group stage draw, said: "I'm really happy so I must say thanks to my team-mates because without the team, individual awards would not be possible. I don't have this trophy in my museum, so my brother is going to put it there. "
The 29-year-old − who follows Franck Ribéry (2012/13), Andrés Iniesta (2011/12) and Lionel Messi (2010/11) as a recipient of the award – broke the record for goals, 17, by a player in a UEFA Champions League campaign last term as Madrid claimed their long-awaited tenth European title.
"It was amazing, something that Madrid had looked to do for many years. As Madrid players we feel as though you have to win the Champions League. It was a fantastic season – we won the Champions League, the Spanish Cup and the [UEFA] Super Cup."
Ronaldo also assessed the challenge facing a Merengues side looking to become the first to win back-to-back UEFA Champions League titles. He said: "Everything is possible. I've won it with Manchester United and now with Madrid, so we're looking forward to another one."
Neuer, Robben and Ronaldo had gained the most points from a second poll of the aforementioned journalists from each of UEFA's member associations, the three having been part of a ten-strong shortlist
revealed last month that was the product of a first round of voting by the same reporters.
Positions four to ten were already fixed after every reporter provided a list of their top three players, with the first receiving three points, the second two points and the third one.
4 Thomas Müller (GER, FC Bayern München) – number of points, 39
5 Philipp Lahm (GER, FC Bayern München) – 24
5 Lionel Messi (ARG, FC Barcelona) – 24
7 James Rodríguez (COL, AS Monaco FC/Real Madrid CF) – 16
8 Luis Suárez (URU, Liverpool FC/FC Barcelona) – 13
9 Ángel Di María (ARG, Real Madrid CF/Manchester United FC) – 12
10 Diego Costa (ESP, Club Atlético de Madrid/Chelsea FC) – 8

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW

And here it is the UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW, Which team has a fair draw?

Group A

Atlético(ESP)

Juventus(ITA)

Olympiacos(GRE)

Malmö(SWE)

Group B

Real Madrid(ESP)

Basel(SUI)

Liverpool(ENG)

Ludogorets(BUL)

Group C

Benfica(POR)

Zenit(RUS)

Leverkusen(GER)

Monaco(FRA)

Group D

Arsenal(ENG)

Dortmund(GER)

Galatasaray(TUR)

Anderlecht(BEL)

Group E

Bayern(GER)

Man. City(ENG)

CSKA Moskva(RUS)

Roma(ITA)

Group F

Barcelona(ESP)

Paris(FRA)

Ajax(NED)

APOEL(CYP)

Group G

Chelsea(ENG)

Schalke(GER)

Sporting(POR)

Maribor(SVN)

Group H

Porto(POR)

Shakhtar Donetsk(UKR)

Athletic(ESP)

BATE(BLR)