Champions League 3rd Qualifying Round

The 3rd Qualifying round ended today with some surprise names going into the Play-off round. The biggest shock was Shakhtar Donetsk's surprise elimination by Romanian Timisoara. Shakhtar lost out on away goals just 3 months after their UEFA Cup win.
Celtic ended their six-year away winless streak by beating Russians Dinamo Moskva 2-0 with Giorgios Samaras scoring in added time.
Debrecen had a 1-0 win over Levadia Tallinn count following last week's 1-0 win.

Elsewhere Latvia may have a team in the Group stage after Ventspils ousted BATE Borisov of Belarus on away goals while Cyprus has hopes of another team making the Group stage after APOEL dumped Partizan from serbia out 2-1. Sheriff from Moldova ended Czech interest with Slavia exiting and Olympiakos, FC Zurich and FC Kobenhavn were all victorious.

Confederations Cup Group B

Brazil were made to work hard for their 4-3 win over Egypt on Monday. Kaká gave Brazil the lead before Mohammed Zidan levelled with a header. Luis Fabiano headed Brazil back in front and Juan made it 3-1 at the break with a header from a corner. Mohamed Shawky pulled on back but just a minute later Mohammed Zidan levelled the scores at 3-3. But Brazil's Kaká had a shot stopped by a handball in the final minute in which Howard Webb awarded the penalty and Kaká converted. 

The USA played well against World champions Italy in Petoria. Despite having Ricardo Clark sent-off it was the USA who took the lead from the spot when Chiellini bough down Altidore in the box. Landon Donovan converted. Giuseppe Rossi, born in the USA levelled the scores with a fantastic strike before Daniel De Rossi made it 2-1 Italy with a long-range shot. Giuesspe Rossi then made sure of the win with a 3rd in injury time. 

European Domestic Leagues Results

Their was a few ey-catching results but the biggest was in Russia. 

Norway: Satruday saw table topping Rosenborg take on Strømsgodset. Rosenborg needed late goals to secure the 3 points. A double from Stefan Iversen and a last minute strike from Rade Prica helping Rosenborg extend their lead at the top. 

Sunday saw Odd Grenland move into 2nd after a thumping 4-0 win over struggling Bodø/Glimt. Elsewhere there was wins for Viking, Brann, Lillestrøm and Stabæk. Tromsø were held by Sandefjord. Molde fell further behind after a 2-2 draw with IK Start on Monday. 

1. Rosenborg 3-0 Strømsgodset 
2. Aalesunds 0-1 Viking
3. Brann 2-1 Lyn Oslo
4. Lillestrøm 4-2 Fredrikstad
5. Odd Grenland 4-0 Bodø/Glimt 
6. Tromsø 1-1 Sandefjord
7. Vålerenga 0-1 Stabæk
8. IK Start 2-2 Molde

Russia: Bottom of the table Khimki narrowly lost 1-0 away to Spartak Moskva. The result keeps them bottom with just 4 points. Elsehwere on Saturday Dinamo Moskva were held by Kuban to a 1-1 draw, Terek Grozny overcame Krylya Sovetov 3-2 which sees Krylya lose 2nd place. But the biggest shock was Rubin Kazan's 2-0 loss at home to Rostov. The result now means Rubin fall into 2nd. 

Sunday saw FK Moskva take advantage of the Rubin loss by winning 2-0 in the Moskva derby against CSKA. Saturn were 2-0 winners over Lokomotiv. Elsewhere Spartak Nalchik held Zenit to a draw and Amkar Perm were victorious over Tom Tomsk. 

1. Rubin Kazan 0-2 Rostov 
2. Spartak Moskva 1-0 Khimki
3. Dinamo Moskva 1-1 Kuban
4. Terek Grozny 3-2 Krylya Sovetov
5. Tom Tomsk 1-2 Amkar Perm
6. FK Moskva 2-0 CSKA Moskva
7. Saturn 2-0 Lokomotiv Moskva 
8. Spartak Nalchik 2-2 Zenit St Petersburg

Iceland: The title race is as-you-were after this weekend with both Fylkir and FH winning meaning the one point advantage for FH still stands. There was a 1st win for Þróttur who beat ÍBV 2-1. 

1. Fjölnir 1-3 Flykir 
2. Grindavík 0-3 FH 
3. KR 4-1 Keflavík
4. Stjarnan 4-1 Fram
5. Þróttur 2-1 ÍBV
6. Breiðablik v Valur

Finland: Just three games this weekend in Finland. MyPa got a 2-0 win away to KuPS to move clear of the relegation zone on Saturday. The other two games took place on Sunday with Jaro 2-0 winners over RoPS and Lahti drew 1-1 with IFK Mariehamn. 

1. KuPS 0-2 MyPa
2. Jaro 2-0 RoPS
3. Lahti 1-1 IFK Mariehamn

Bulgaria: The Bulgarian A PFG ended on Saturday with CSKA Sofia ending the season with a 2-1 win over Lokomotiv Mezdra. Champions Levski ended with a 1-1 draw away to Blagoevgrad. 

1. CSKA Sofia 2-1 Lokomotiv Mezdra
2. Lokomotiv Plovdiv 3-0 Botev
3. Minior 2-2 Cherno More
4. Spartak Varna 0-4 Litex Lovech
5. Blagoevgrad 1-1 Levski Sofia
6. Sliven 0-2 Belasitsa
7. Slavia Sofia 2-2 Lokomotiv Sofia
8. Vihren 3-5 Chernomorets Burgas

Switzerland: AC Lugano went into the 2nd leg of their relegation/promotion play-off with a 1-0 lead but by the end of the day they were battered 5-1 on aggergrate as they stay in the Challenge league. 

1. FC Luzern 5-0 AC Lugano

Confederations Group A

South Africa and Iraq played out a dull 0-0 draw in Johannesburg on Sunday. The result neither wanted to start the tournament with but there was shades of South Africa that could put New Zealand under pressure. Iraq came into the game as underdogs but kept South Africa out. A few good chances for South Africa especially when Steven Pienaar came on. 

Spain made light-work of New Zealand in Rustenburg with a 5-0 rout. The All-Whites came into the game with no real big-name players but once Fernando Torres got his 1st the flood gate opened as the Liverpool striker completed his hat-trick with a fine goal. Francese Fábregas was also on target with a tap-in. David Villa made it 5-0 in the 2nd half when Boyens missed the ball and allowed the Valencia man into score. 

Transfer News

AC Milan have announced the signing of FC Porto defender Aly Cissokho for around €15 million. Cissokho had a short spell with the Portuguese champions and only moved from Ligue 2 side Gueugnon last summer. 

Jérémy Mathieu has join Valencia. The Toulouse man becomes Los Chés 1st signing of the summer. 

Steaua Bucureşti have appointed Cristiano Bergodi as their new manager. Steaua Bucureşti had finished 6th in the Romanian Liga last season which has promted the club to make changes this summer. 

Confederations Cup Group A preview

South Africa play Iraq in Elis Park today with Joel Santana's side improving since he began his role as boss of bafana bafana 14 months ago. Iraq have been a good side and won the AFC Asian Cup in 2007 with a good sqaud. 

South Africa v Iraq: This game could be a good one. South Africa have a point to prove while Iraq will be underdogs throughout the tournament. Younis Mahmoud will be the key man for Iraq. He scored the winner in the Asian Cup two years ago. South Africa's treat will be Steven Pienaar. The Everton man has been tricky in the premiership. 

New Zealand v Spain: Spain are the clear favourites here. Rustenburg is the setting but with a midfield like what Spain has New Zealand will have a tough job to get something out of this game. Shane Smeltz however is a good striker and was the top scorer in the A-League last season. But Marcos Senna could be Spain's force in midfield. With Torres and Villa up front. New Zealand did however almost beat Italy last week. A 4-3 loss was the result but New Zealand deserved a win or a least a draw. 

Man United?

With Cristiano Ronaldo set to exit the club Man United have been looking for a replacement. Some say Franck Ribéry of Bayern Munich is a direct replacement. But Bayern have said a big offer will do. Luis Antonio Valencia of Wigan has long been linked with United as well as Real Madrid but Wigan will want a good offer for the Ecuadorian. 

Some have even suggested Rafael Van Der Vaart. The Dutchman who could be leaving Real due to the arrivals of Kaká and Cristiano Ronaldo is an option. Arjen Robben has in the past been linked. 

Jones goes American

Schalke 04's Jermaine Jones has decided to play for the United States. The forward who has played for the German seniors has made the switch to America having not played in a major tournament. Appearences against Austria, Belarus and England could've meant no switch but under FIFA rules they are not competitive internationals and is free to switch. 

Rest of the World Leagues Preview

Brazil:Internacional top the table by 2 points from Atlético Mineiro and will aim to build on that against Vitória on Sunday. Bottom side Atlético Paranaense will be looking for their 1st win of the season as will Coritiba, Botafogo, Barueri and Avaí. 

1. Sport Recife v Atlético Paranaense (Saturday 18:30)
2. São Paulo v Santo André (Saturday 18:30)
3. Botafogo v Santos (Saturday 18:30)
4. Goías v Corinthians (Sunday 16:00)
5. Fluminense v Grêmio (Sunday 16:00)
6. Atlético Mineiro v Náutico (Sunday 16:00)
7. Internacional v Vitória (Sunday 18:30)
8. Barueri v Avaí (Sunday 18:30)
9. Palmeiras v Cruzeiro (Sunday 18:30)

Argentina: It is coming close to the end of the Closing Championship. Just 3 rounds left including this weekend. Lanús are currently top but are followed closely by Vélez Sársfield and Huracán and Colón cant be ruled out either who are 4th and 8 points behind. 

1. Banfield v Independiente (Friday 19:00)
2. Colón Santa Fé v Gimnasia La Plata (Friday 19:00)
3. River Plate v Tigre (Saturday 16:10)
4. Vélez Sársfield v Newell's Old Boys (Saturday 18:20)
5. Arsenal v Lanús (Saturday 18:20)
6. Edtudiantes La Plata v Godoy Cruz (Saturday 21:10)
7. San Lorenzo v Huracán (Sunday 11:00)
8. San Martín v Gimnasia Jujuy (Sunday 15:00)
9. Racing Club v Boca Juniors (Sunday 17:10)
10. Rosario Central v Argentinios Juniors (Sunday 19:30)

United States: The clubs will be without some major players as the US national side head to South Africa. But the likes of Blanco, Guevara and Montero return. 

1. Columbus Crew v Chivas USA (Sunday 15:00)
2. FC Dallas v Houston Dynamo (Sunday 19:30)
3. Seattle Sounders v San José Earthquakes (Sunday 19:30)
4. DC United v Chicago Fire (Sunday 19:30)
5. Kansas City Wizards v New England (Sunday 19:30)
6. LA Galaxy v Real Salt Lake (Sunday 19:30)
7. Toronto v New York Red Bulls (Sunday 20:00)

European Domestic Leagues Preview

The summer leagues in Europe are taking centre stage this summer with games in Norway, Iceland and Russia. 

Norway: Rosenborg currently lead the table by 5 points from Molde. But Rosenborg will have the chance to go 8 points clear this weekend with Molde not playing until Monday. Molde will face 3rd placed IK Start on Monday with the winner going 2nd. To the bottom of the table and Lyn Oslo, bottom face 2007 champions Brann away. Lillestrøm meanwhile are at home to Fredrikstad. 

1. Rosenborg v Strømsgodset (Saturday 20:00 CET)
2. Aalesunds v Viking (Sunday 18:00 CET)
3. Brann v Lyn Oslo (Sunday 18:00 CET)
4. Lillestrøm v Fredrikstad (Sunday 18:00 CET)
5. Odd Grenland v Bodø/Glimt (Sunday 18:00 CET)
6. Tromsø v Sandefjord (Sunday 18:00 CET)
7. Vålerenga v Stabæk (Sunday 20:00 CET)
8. IK Start v Molde (Monday 19:00 CET)

Russia: Champions and current leaders Rubin Kazan host Rostov on Saturday looking to continue their good form. Bottom side Khimki face Spartak Moskva away in what will be a tough game for Khimki. 

1. Rubin Kazan v Rostov (Saturday 13:00 CET)
2. Spartak Moskva v Khimki (Saturday 14:30 CET)
3. Dinamo Moskva v Kuban (Saturday 15:30 CET)
4. Terek Grozny v Krylya Sovetov (Saturday 18:00 CET)
5. Tom Tomsk v Amkar (Sunday 09:30 CET)
6. FK Moskva v CSKA Moskva (Sunday 12:00 CET)
7. Saturn v Lokomotiv Moskva (Sunday 14:30 CET)
8. Spartak Nalchik v Zenit St Petersburg (Sunday 17:00 CET)

Iceland: FH go into this weekend top of the table and face relegation dog-fighters Grindavík on Sunday. Stjarnan currently 2nd face Fram at home also on Sunday. 

1. Fjölnir v Fylkir (Saturday 21:15 CET)
2. Grindavík v FH (Sunday 21:15 CET)
3. KR v Keflavík (Sunday 21:15 CET)
4. Stjarnan v Fram (Sunday 21:15 CET)
5. Þróttur v ÍBV (Sunday 21:15 CET)
6. Breiðablik v Valur (Monday 20:15 CET)

Finland: FC Haka are top with a game in hand this weekend. But Inter Turku are maybe gearing up for a title challenge this year. Only 3 games this weekend. 

1. KuPS v MyPa (Saturday 15:00 CET)
2. Jaro v RoPS (Sunday 17:30 CET)
3. Lahti v Mariehamn (Sunday 18:00 CET)

Bulgaria: The Bulgarian season ends this weekend with Levski confirmed at champions. All the European places are sorted and so is the relegation. This weekend will be just an end-of-season run out. 

1. CSKA Sofia v Lokomotiv Mezdra (Saturday 16:00 CET)
2. Lokomotiv Plovdiv v Botev (Saturday 16:00 CET)
3. Minior v Cherno More (Saturday 16:00 CET)
4. Spartak Varna v Litex Lovech (Saturday 16:00 CET)
5. Blagoevgrad v Levski Sofia (Saturday 16:00 CET)
6. Sliven v Belasita (Saturday 16:00 CET)
7. Slavia Sofia v Lokomotiv Sofia (Saturday 16:00 CET)
8. Vihren v Chernomorets Burgas (Saturday 16:00 CET)

Switzerland: The 2nd leg of the relegation/promotion play-off gets under way on Saturday with AC Lugano 1-0 up. 

1. FC Luzern (0) v (1) AC Lugano (Saturday 18:45 CET)

Deco wants out

Former Porto and Barcelona playmaker Deco wants out of Chelsea. The Portugese star is said to be unhappy at Stamford Bridge and wants to leave this summer. Rumours of him joining up with José Mourinho at Inter Milan could lead the way. 

Real Madrid plot Ronaldo

Real Madrid are planning a world record breaking swoop for Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo. Man United accepted a €94 million bid this morning after Ronaldo stated he wanted to leave. Real Madrid have just signed Kaká on Tuesday and could make Cristiano Ronaldo their latest recruit by the end of the month. 

Speculation though is mounting on Arjen Robben's future as the arrival of both Kaká and Cristiano Ronaldo could mean Robben sitting on the bench. 

World Cup Qualifiers South America

Argentina suffered a 2-0 defeat in Quito to Ecuador. Two fine goals from Walter Ayovi and Pablo Palacios mean Argentina suffer another defeat that moves them down to 4th. Ecuador are 5th. 

Colombia are 7th after a 1-0 win over Peru at home. A goal from Radamel García was enough which leaves Peru rooted to the bottom of the table. 

The Big game took place in Recife in Brazil where Brazil defeated leaders Paraguay 2-1. Salvador Cabañas had given the visitors the lead before Robinho and Nilmar ensured victory for Brazil. 

Chile are now 2nd behind Brazil after a 4-0 stroll against Bolivia in Santiago. Jean André Beausejour, Marocs Estrada and an Alexis Sánchez double secured the win.

Uruguay suffered a bad result away to Venezuela. A 2-2 draw hindered their chances of making it to South Africa. Giancarlo Maldonado gave the home side the lead before Luiz Suárez and Diego Forlán meant Uruguay were 2-1 up before Jose Manuel Rey levelled things up.  

World Cup Qualifiers North America

Just the 2 games on Wednesday night took place due to the United States going to South Africa for the Confederations cup. 

Mexico went into their game with Trinidad & Tobago in 4th place and needed a win to improve their chances of qualifying. Guille Franco gave them a perfect start with a goal in the 1st minute. But Trinidad & Tobago came back and levelled up on 45 minutes thanks to Hayden Tinto. But Mexico were determined not to be defeated and got the winner on 48 minutes from Oscar Rojas. 

Honduras also improved their chances of making next year's finals with a 1-0 win over El Salvador. Carlos Pávon's goal was enough to secure victory which keeps Honduras in 3rd place but moves El Salvador down to 5th. 

World Cup Qualifiers Asia

No qualification was secured yesterday but we did see some good results. 

Group 1: Australia ended their home campaign with a 2-0 win over play-off hopefuls Bahrain. But the Aussies had to work for the win. Australia got top by 2 points from Japan. 

Japan hosted a Qatar side needing to win to have any chance of grabbing the play-off place but an own goal in the 2nd minute from Adbulaziz Ali meant Qatar were playing catch-up. Ali Yahya's penalty levelled thing up but Qatar couldn't find the winner and bow out. 

Group 2: South Korea held Saudi Arabia to a 0-0 draw which in turn keeps arch-rivals North Korea in the hunt for the 2nd automatic place. 

Iran, ironically can pipe both North Korea and Saudi Arabia to the automatic berth after they secured a 1-0 win over the UAE. Ali Karimi's goal meant Iran need to win on Saturday and hope both North Korea draw with Saudi Arabia. 

World Cup Qualifiers Europe

Wednesday saw just 7 games take place but their was vital wins. 

Group 1: Sweden made home advantage count as they easily defeated Malta 4-0. Kim Källström, Daniel Majstorovic, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marcus Berg all on the scoresheet. 

Group 4: Finland suffered a morale damaging defeat at home to Russia. The Russians left Helsinki with a 3-0 win thanks to a double from Alexandr Kerzhakov and one from Konstantin Ziryanov. Russia are just a point behind group leaders Germany. 

Group 6: England strolled in Wembley as they moved closer to the World Cup Finals. A 6-0 rout of Andorra meant England go into the summer 10 points clear of Croatia. A double from Wayne Rooney and Jermaine Defoe plus one from Frank Lampard and Peter Crouch did the damage. 

Ukraine laboured to a 2-1 win over Kazakhstan. Tanat Nuserbayev gave the visitors the lead before Sergey Nazarenko's double helped Ukraine to the win. Ukraine move level with Croatia in 2nd. 

Group 7: Group leaders Serbia extended their lead at the top to 8 points from France, who have 2 games in hand. Milan Jovanović and Nevan Subotić got the goals in a 2-0 win over Faroe Islands in Tórshavn. 

Group 9: Macedonia recored a 2-0 win at home to Iceland that keeps them in the hunt for the play-off place. Goals from Aco Stojkov and Filip Ivanovski secured the win. 

Holland celebrated their qualification, which was secured on Saturday by beating Norway at home. Andre Ooijer and Arjen Robben with the goals in a 2-0 win. 

Swiss Play-off 1st Leg Result

AC Lugano will take a 1-0 lead into the 2nd leg against FC Luzern. The Challenge League side were at home yesterday and made that tell with a narrow but vital 1-0 win. Pascal Renfer scored the only goal on 15 minutes. FC Luzern will be without Dušan Veškovac who was sent-off. 

Swiss Super League Play-off

AC Lugano host Luzern in the promotion/relegation play-off 1st leg tonight. AC Lugano who finished 2nd in the Challenge League face a Luzern side that finished 9th in the Swiss Super League. 

Uzbekistan for Scolari

Former Chelsea boss Luis Felipe Scolari has become the new manager of Uzbekistan champions Bunyodkor. The Brazilian world cup winner in 2002 was sacked by Chelsea in February has signed an 18-month contract.

Luis Felipe Scolari takes over with the club currently top of the Uzbek PDL after winning all ten of their matches to date. He takes over from fellow Brazilian Zico who left for CSKA Moscow in December. 

Kaká signs for Real Madrid

Real Madrid have made Kaká their 1st signing of the summer. The Brazilian who was with AC Milan has agreed to join Real Madrid for a reported €68 million. Kaká had said he wanted to stay at the Serie A side but Real Madrid came in with a big offer. 

Kaká, currently with the Brazilian national side for Wednesday's world cup qualifier with Paraguay in Recife. 

Real Madrid have now targeted Cristiano Ronaldo from Man United while they have ruled out a move for Xabi Alonso. 

Juventus appoint Ferrara

Juventus have appointed Cino Ferrara as sucessor to Claudio Ranieri. Ferrara has signed a 2 year-deal that will see him out until 2011. Juventus who finished in disappointing form in Serie A lost Ranieri earlier this month and Ferrara has been appointed to lead a charge on the title next season. 

Resino to stay on

Alberto Resino is staying on as Atlético Madrid boss until the end of next season. The former Spain keeper has signed a 1-year contract that will oversee Atlético's champions league campaign. Atlético face an interesting summer with Diego Forlán being linked with a move away while Leo Franco is leaving. 

Frank Rijkaard is back

Frank Rijkaard has returned to managment a year after he was sacked by Barcelona. The former Holland ace has been appointed the new boss on Galatasaray. The Turkish side lost Bülent Korkmaz last week and the club have moved quickly to appoint Rijkaard who has been linked with Chelsea in the past. 

Flores leaves Benfica

Former Valencia boss Quique Sánchez Flores has left Benfica in the wake of a poor Superliga campaign that left Benfica in 3rd place behind rivals Porto and Sporting Lisbon. 

Flores, who joined Benfica last summer signed a contract until 2011 but the club and Flores have reached an agreement to let the Spaniard leave early. 

World Cup Qualifiers South America

Just the one game in South America on Sunday and it was a win for Ecuador. Peru, bottom of the table going into this game hosted an Ecuador side looking to go level on points with Uruguay who occupy the play-off spot. 

It was Ecuador who struck 1st though on 38 minutes when Jefferson Montero found the net. But Peru refused to go down and a stunning free-kick on 52 minutes from Juan Vargas levelled the scores. But some slack marking allowed Carlos Tenorio to put Ecuador back in front on 59 minutes. Peru stay bottom with 7 points while Ecuador are level with Uruguay in 6th place. 

World Cup Qualfiers Africa

Sunday saw the remaining ties in the final round take place. 

Group A: The Big two in group 1 faced off on Sunday. Cameroon were the favourites to win the group but Morocco could spring a surprise but a 0-0 draw in Yaoundé was how it finished. 

Group B: Nigeria recorded a 3-0 win over Kenya in Sunday as they move into 2nd behind leaders Tunisia. Ikechukwu Uche and a double from Victor Obinna secured the win. 

Group C: Algeria hosted Egypt in Bilda and caused Egypt a lot of problems. Karim Matmour gave Algeria the lead before Abdelkader Ghezzal made it 2-0. Rafik Djebbour made sure of the result before Mohammed Aboutrika pulled one back for the visitors. 

Group D: Ghana went top of Group D after beating Mali 2-0 away. Goals from Kwadwo Asamoah and Matthew Amoah were enough to secure the 3 points. 

Group E: Ivory Coast went level on points with Burkina Faso after beating Guinea 1-2 away. Bakary Koné gave the visitors the lead before Sambegou Bangoura levelled the scores. Romaric scored the winner to leave Guinea bottom with just a point. 

World Cup Qualifiers North America:

Trinidad & Tobago caused Costa Rica a scare in Bacolet. Carlos Edwards opened the scoring before Costa Rica levelled thanks to Alvaro Saborio. Celso Borges double set Costa Rica on their way despite Colin Samuel's goal. A 3-2 win for Costa Rica keeps them top. 

The USA had to come from behind to claim victory over Honduras in Chicago. Carlos Costly gave the Hondurians the lead before a penalty from Landon Donovan levelled things up. Carlos Bocanegra scored the winner that keeps the USA 2nd. 

El Salvador caused a shock as they beat Mexico 2-1. Julio Martínez opened the scoring before Cuauhtémoc Blanco levelled up from the spot. But Eliseo Quintanilla scored the winner from the spot 4 minutes from time. 

World Cup Qualifiers South America:

Brazil went top of the table in South America after a 0-4 win over Uruguay on Montevideo. Daniel Alves, Juan, Luis Fabiano and Kaká from the spot. Luis Fabiano was sent-off for Brazil while Maxi Pereira was also sent-off. 

Argentina are now 4th after a 1-0 win over Colombia. Daniel Díaz scored the wonly goal of the game with a volley. 

Bolivia had a bad day as Ronald Rivero's own goal secured a 1-0 win for Venezuela in La Paz. Venezuela into 6th after this win. 

Paraguay suffered defeat at home for the 1st time in these qualifiers after Chile left with a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Matías Fernández and Humberto Suazo. 

World Cup Qualifiers Asia:

Group 1: Australia qualified for next year' showcase after being held to a 0-0 draw in Doha by Qatar. The draw leaves Qatar with a must win game providing Bahrain lose on Wednesday. 

Japan also secured a place in the finals with a 0-1 win away to Uzbekistan. Shinji Okazaki got the only goal of the game. Uzbekistan need Bahrain to lose and then need to win against Bahrain on Wednesday or they are out. 

Group 2: North Korea were held to 0-0 draw by Iran in Pyongyang. The draw leaves North Korea in 2nd with a chance of qualifing automatically. 

But South Korea have secured a place in next year's competition with a 0-2 win away to the United Arab Emirates. Park Chu-Young and Ki-Sung-Yueng with the goals to secure the place. 

World Cup Qualifiers Africa:

Group A: Gabon went top of Group A with a thumping 3-0 win over 2006 finalists Togo. Bruno Ecule, Roguy Meye and Moise Brou with the goals. Togo also had Thomas Dossevi sent-off. 

Group B: Tunisa went top of Group B with a 2-0 win over Mozambique in Tunis. Ouissen Ben Yahia opened the scoring from the spot before Oussama Darragi got a last minute goal to secure the win. 

Group C: Zambia also went top until Sunday at least with a narrow 1-0 win over Rwanda. Rainford Kalaba got the only goal. 

Group E: Burkina Faso went top of their group with Ivory Coast playing on Sunday. A 1-0 win over Malawi was enough. Moumouni Dagano with the only goal. 

World Cup Qualifiers Europe:

Group 1: Albania were seconds away from holding Portugal to a draw but a Bruno Alves goal 3 minutes into added time gave Portugal a vital win. Hugo Almeida had given Portugal the lead before Erion Bogdani levelled up. 

Sweden are in real trouble after losing 1-0 to Denmark. The group leaders Denmark are now looking good. Thomas Kahlenberg scored the winner. 

Group 3: Just one game took place in Group 3 and it was a stroll for Slovakia as they hit San Marino for 7 in a 7-0 win. Marek Čech got a brace with Peter Pekarik, Miroslav Stoch, Jan Kozak, Martin Jakubko and Ľuboš Hanzel getting the other goals. Slovakia move top by 2 points from Northern Ireland. 

Group 4: Finland were made to work for their win over Liechtenstein. Surprisingly it was the visitors who struck 1st when Mario Frick found the net. But Finland came back and levelled thanks to Mikael Forssell and Jonathan Johansson scored the winner. Finland stay 3rd.

Wales travelled to Azerbaijan with a youthful side rocked by injuries but a David Edwards goal made the trip worthwhile. Wales into 4th. 

Group 6: Croatia fell further behind England after being held to a 2-2 draw by Ukraine. Mladen Petrić gave Croatia the lead before Andriy Shevchenko levelled the scores. But it was Ukraine who then took the lead when Olexiy Gay made it 2-1 to the visitors. Luka Modrić levelled up soon after.

Belarus made light-work of minnows Andorra with a 5-1 win in Grodno. Gennady Blizniuk gave Belarus the lead before Timofei Kalachev and a double from Sergei Kornilenko plus another from Blizniuk gave Belarus a 5-0 lead. Ildefons Lima pulled a goal back for Andorra in injury-time with a penalty. 

England made it 6 wins form 6 with a 4-0 win away to Kazakhstan. England made to long flight to Almaty looking to move a step closer to qualification. But the Kazakhs kept England out until 40 minutes. Gareth Barry set England on their way before Emile Heskey made it 2-0 just before half-time. Wayne Rooney made it 3-0 before a Frank Lampard penalty secured a 4-0 win. 

Group 7: Serbia stayed top with a narrow win over Austria. Nenad Milijaš got the only goal of the game on 7 minutes with a penalty. 

Romania got a good win over Lithuania in Marijampole. Christian Marica got the only goal of the game. A bad loss for Lithuania. 

Group 8: Cyprus were pegged back by a spirited Montenegro side that had to come from 2-0 down to secure a point. Michael Konstantinou opened the scoring before Chrysostomos Michail's penalty made it 2-0. Dejan Damjanović's double secure the point. 

Bulgaria needed a win at home to the Republic of Ireland but were forced to a draw. Richard Dunne's header made it 1-0 before Dimitar Telkiyski levelled up. 

Group 9: Macedonia held Norway to a 0-0 draw in Skopje. The result does little for Norway's hopes of qualifying while Macedonia's hopes are hurt as well. 

Holland secured qualification for next year's world cup with a 2-1 win away to Iceland. Nigel De Jong's opener set them on their way and Mark Van Bommel secured the win despite Kristján Sigurðsson's consolation goal. 

June 5th Results

Rep of Ireland:

1. St Patrick's 3-1 Bohemians
2. Galway United 1-1 Drogheda United
3. Dundalk 3-0 Bray Wanderers
4. Cork City 0-0 Shamrock Rovers
5. Sligo Rovers 0-1 Derry City

United States: Major League Soccer:

1. Chicago Fire 0-1 Houston Dynamo

Internationals:

1. Czech Republic 1-0 Malta
2. Syria 6-0 Sierra Leone
3. France 1-0 Turkey

June 5th Fixtures

Rep of Ireland:

1. St Patrick's v Bohemians (19:45)
2. Galway United v Drogheda United (19:45)
3. Dundalk v Bray Wanderers (19:45)
4. Cork City v Shamrock Rovers (19:45)
5. Sligo Rovers v Derry City (19:45)

United States: Major League Soccer:

1. Chicago Fire v Houston Dynamo

Internationals:

1. Cezch Republic v Malta (16:20)
2. Syria v Sierra Leone (17:00)
3. France v Turkey (20:00)

Jupp Heynckes new Leverkusen boss

Jupp Heynckes, who was Bayern Munich caretaker manager this season has taken control of Bayer Leverkusen. The former German international takes a side that are not doing to badly. 

June 4th Results

Brazil: Serie A

1. Grêmio 3-0 Náutico
2. Santo André 3-3 Santos

Norway: NM Cupen:

1. Sarpsborg 2-3e Eidsvold
2. Nest Sotra 2-1 Moss
3. Sogndal 2-1 Asane

United States: Major League Soccer

1. DC United 2-0 New York Red Bulls

Internationals:

1. China 1-4 Saudi Arabia

Kaká to Real?

The Real Madrid mission to re-capture the La Liga crown next season is in its early days but already Florentino Pérez is lloking to sign one of the best players in the world. Florentino Pérez snapped up Manuel Pellegrini from Villarreal in his 1st major change this summer on Monday but Kaká is seen as a must by Real Madrid. 

Florentino Pérez also wants to sign Cristiano Ronaldo but Man United will attempt to brush Real Madrid away for a 2nd consecutive year. But Pérez needs some defenders as well. Fabio Cannavaro has left for Juventus while Michel Salgado is leaving for Al-Rayyan in Qatar and with Pepe suspended for the opening games of next season. 

World Rankings

The world rankings were announced during the week and Spain still lead the way. But we do have a new team in 2nd. Holland's good season has seen them jump over Germany, who slip to 3rd. 

1. Spain
2. Holland
3. Germany
4. Italy
5. Brazil
6. England
7. Argentina
8. Croatia
9. Russia
10. France 
11. Portugal
12. Turkey
13. Paraguay
14. USA
15. Czech Republic

The biggest movers of the month were Libya. The North Africans are up from 83rd to 69th. But Congo were the worst movers falling from 67th to 86th in the rankings. 

June 4th Fixtures

Brazil: Serie A

1. Grêmio v Náutico
2. Santo André v Santos

Norway: NM Cupen

1. Sarpsborg v Eidsvold (18:00)
2. Nest Sotra v Moss (18:00)
3. Sogndal v Asane (18:00)

United States: Major League Soccer:

1. DC United v New York Red Bulls

International:

1. China v Saudi Arabia

Copa Do Brazil Semi-Finals

Both Internacional on Corinthians secured final places today. Internacional were 3-1 up going into their away clash with Coritiba, currently bottom of Serie A. Coritiba needed a 2-0 win to go through but only got the one to bow out. Ariel Nahuelpan with the only goal. Bolívar though was sent-off meaning he is suspended for the final. 

Corinthians got the 0-0 they needed to go through. Having drawn 1-1 away to Vasco, Corinthians knew a 0-0 draw would be enough to go through and they acheived that. 

Bülent Korkmaz quits Galatasaray

Bülent Korkmaz has quit as boss of Galatasaray after just 3 months in charge of the Istanbul side. Galatasaray finished 5th in what was a very poor season. Korkmaz suceeded Michael Skibbe in February but failed to lift Galatasaray to champions league qualification. Galatasaray will play in the Europa League 2nd qualifying round this summer. 

Costa Rica 3-1 USA

Costa Rica went top of the Concacaf final round table with a stunning 3-1 win over USA. The USA came into the match having never won in Costa Rica. But the USA were stunned in the 2nd miniute when Alvaro Saborio found the net with a screamer in the top corner beyond Tim Howard. Costa Rica kept pressurising and got a 2nd on 13 minutes when a cross was met by Celso Borges to volley in from close range. Tim Howard had to scramble away a dangerous header before the break. They went in 2-0 up at the break but Costa Rica didn't lie down and went 3-0 up on 69 minutes. Celso Borges cut in from the right and unleashed a low drive into the bottom corner. The USA tried to pull a goal back and duly did when awarded a penalty in added on time. Landon Donovan stepped up and scored. 

The USA are at home to Honduras at Chicago on Saturday night. Costa Rica are away to Trinidad & Tobago. 

June 3rd Results

Holland: Relegation/Poromotion play-offs 2nd legs:

1. RKC 1-0 De Graafschap
2. Cambuur 2-2p Roda JC

Brazil: Copa Do Brazil Semi-Finals 2nd Legs:

1. Coritiba 1-0 Internacional
2. Corinthians 0-0 Vasco De Gama

Nigeria:

1. Bayelsa United 1-0 Kaduna
2. Heartland 3-0 Zamfara
3. Enyimba 3-1 Kano Pillars

Internationals:

1. Liechtenstein 0-1 Bosnia-Hertegovina
2. Bahrain 4-0 Jordan

Steve Bruce new Sunderland boss

Steve Bruce has become the new manager of Sunderland. The former Birmingham manager has left Wigan after he guided them to a place in the top half last season. Bruce replaces Ricky Sbragia who quit as Black Cats boss after securing Sunderland's top flight satus for 2009-10. Wigan will be looking for a new manager. 

June 3rd Fixtures:

Nigeria:

1. Bayelsa United v Kaduna (17:00 CET)
2. Heartland v Zamfara (17:00 CET)
3. Enyimba v Kano Pillars (17:00 CET)

Brazil: Copa Do Brazil Semi-Finals 2nd Legs:

1. Coritiba v Internacional
2. Corinthians v Vasco De Gama

Internationals:

1. Liechtenstein v Bosnia-Hertegovina (19:00 CET)
2. Bahrain v Jordan (21:00)

June 2nd Results

Norway:

1. Strömgodset 2-1 Brann

Rep of Ireland:

1. Bohemians 2-0 Galway United
2. Bray Wanderers 3-1 Sligo Rovers
3. Derry City 1-0 St Patrick's 
4. Drogheda United 2-1 Cork City
5. Shamrock Rovers 3-1 Dundalk

Isreal (Promotion/relegation play-off 1st leg):

1. Maccabi Ahi Nazareth 2-1 Hakoah Maccabi Ramat-Gan

Indonesia:

1. PSMS Medan 3-1 Sriwijaya 
2. Persitara 4-1 Persib
3. PSIS v Persijap (Postponed)

Internationals:

1. Turkey 2-0 Azerbaijan
2. UAE 2-7 Germany
3. France 0-1 Nigeria

1. 
   

Internationals

Turkey warmed up for the world cup qualifiers with a late 2-0 win over Azerbaijan in Istanbul. Turkey face France on Friday. 

Germany strolled in the desert against the UAE. Mario Gomez ended his barren spell for Germany with 4 well-taken goals as Germany romped to a 2-7 win. 

Raymond Domenech is under serious pressure after France were surprisingly beaten 0-1 by Nigeria in Saint Étienne. 

Premier League News:

Man City have made Gareth Barry their 1st major signing of the summer. The England international joins from Aston Villa, who finished 5th in the Premier League last season for around £12 million. 

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has signed a new 1 year contract extension. Ballack's previous deal was to expire at the end of this month but has put pen to paper. 

June 2nd Fixtures

Norway:

1. Strömgodset v Brann (19:00 CET)

Rep of Ireland:

1. Bohemians v Galway United (20:45 CET)
2. Bray Wanderers v Sligo Rovers (20:45 CET)
3. Derry City v St Patrick's (20:45 CET)
4. Drogheda United v Cork City (20:45 CET)
5. Shamrock Rovers v Dundalk (20:45 CET)

Isreal (Promotion/relegation play-off 1st leg):

1. Maccabi Ahi Nazareth v Hakoah Maccabi Ramat-Gan (19:30 CET)

Indonesia:

1. PSMS Medan v Sriwijaya (13:00 CET)
2. Persitara v Persib (13:00 CET)
3. PSIS v Persijap (13:00 CET)

Internationals:

1. Turkey v Azerbaijan (19:00 CET)
2. UAE v Germany (20:00 CET)
3. France v Nigeria (21:00 CET)

Villarreal fill gap

With Manuel Pellegrini's departure to Real Madrid, Villarreal moved quickly to announce that Ernesto Valverde is to become the new boss. Valverde, who guided Espanyol to the UEFA Cup final in 2007 left Greek champions Olmypiakos in May 2009.  

Pellegrini new Real Madrid boss

Villarreal coach Manuel Pellegrini has become the new coach of Real Madrid. With Florentino Pérez elected President yesterday this is the 1st change of many this summer. Previous coach Juande Ramos' contract expired after Sunday's defeat to Osasuna and the club have moved quickly to appoint his sucessor. The Chilean will bring some attacking football to the Santiago Bernebeu next season. 

June 1st Results

Norway:

1. Bodø/Glimt 0-4 Rosenborg
2. Fredrikstad 1-0 IK Start
3. Lyn Olso 1-1 Lillestrøm
4. Molde 2-1 Odd Grenland 
5. Sandefjord 1-2 Åalesund
6. Stabæk 2-0 Tromsø
7. Viking 0-3 Vålerenga

Faroe Islands:

1. Vestur 3-5 EB/Streymur
2. AB 3-1 B36
3. B68 3-3 HB
4. ÍF 1-2 Vikingur 
5. KÍ 0-2 NSÍ

Iceland:

1. Fram 1-1 Breidablik
2. Fylkir 2-2 KR
3. FH 3-0 Fjölnir
4. ÍBV 3-1 Grindavik
5. Keflavík 1-1 Stjarnan
6. Valur 2-1 Thróttur 

Finland:

1. Inter Turku 2-1 Honka

Israel:

1. Maccabi Haifa 1-1 Beitar Jerusalem

Sampdoria out and in

Walter Mazzarri left Sampdoria after a poor season in which the Genoa based club finished 13th in Serie A. The club announced that Luigi Del Nieri will become Mazzarri's sucessor after he left Atalanta during the weekend. The former Atalanta boss guided his previous club to 11th in Serie A but left and will be unveiled on June 3rd. 

Monday June 1st Fixtures

Norway: 

1.  Bodø/Glimt v Rosenborg (18:00 CET)
2. Fredrikstad v IK Start (16:00 CET)
3. Lyn Oslo v Lillestrøm (18:00 CET)
4. Molde v Odd Grenland (18:00 CET)
5. Sandefjord v Åalesund (18:00 CET)
6. Stabæk v Tromsø (18:00 CET)
7. Viking v Vålerenga (20:00 CET)

Faroe Islands: 

1. Vestur v EB/Streymur (15:00 CET)
2. AB v B36 (15:00 CET)
3. B68 v HB (15:00 CET)
4. ÍF v Vikingur (15:00 CET)
5. KÍ v NSÍ (15:00 CET)

Iceland:

1. Fram v Breidablik (21:15 CET)
2. Fylkir v KR (21:15 CET)
3. FH v Fjölnir (21:15 CET)
4. ÍBV v Grindavík (21:15 CET)
5. Keflavík v Stjarnan (21:15 CET)
6. Valur v Thróttur (21:15 CET)

Finland:

1. Inter Turku v Honka (18:00 CET)

Israel:

1. Maccadi Haifa v Beitar Jerusalem (19:50 CET)

Florentino Pérez Returns

The much talked about return of Florentino Pérez as president of Real Madrid was comfirmed today. This will be his 2nd stint as Club president after quiting in 2006. Perez has promised such players as Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaká. But he will need to change a few players as Real Madrid finished the season on a sour note with defeat to Osasuna yesterday. 

Carlo Ancelotti new Chelsea manager

Carlo Ancelotti has agreed to become the next Chelsea manager. The Italian who left AC Milan yesterday was the clear favourite to suceed Guus Hiddink, who has returned to Russia. Ancelotti will take the reins offically on July 1st in time for pre-season. 

This will be to former AC Milan and Juventus manager's 1st club outside Italy. He won 1 Serie A title with Milan aswell as one Coppa Italia, 1 Italian Supercup, 2 Champions League titles and 2 UEFA Super Cup titles. 

Carlo Ancelotti becomes the 5th foreign coach of Chelsea since Roman Abramovich took over in 2003 and the 2nd Italian after Claudio Ranieri. 

Panathinikos qualify for Champions League

Panathinikos have joined Olympiakos in the champions league next season after beating closest challengers AEK Athens 2-0. Giorgios Karagounis's penalty and Ante Rukavina secured the 2-0 win. AEK Athens qualify for the Europa League. 

Japan win Kirin Cup

Japan have won the Kirin cup with a 4-0 rout of Belgium today. Having beaten Chile by the same scoreline on Wednesday Japn knew only a draw would secure the trophy. 

Taça de Portugal Final

FC Porto completed the league and cup double today with a narrow 0-1 win over Paços Ferreira. Lisandro López scored the only goal on 6 minutes to complete a good year for FC Porto. Paços Ferreira qualify for the Euorpa League next season as a result of reaching the final. 

Serie A Final Day Round-Up:

2008-09 Serie A concluded today with one relegation place still not sorted and the champions league places not sorted either. 

First-of all the Champions league final place was up for grabs between Genoa and Fiorentina. While the 2nd automatic place was also up for grabs between Juventus and AC Milan. Juventus faced Lazio while AC Milan travelled to Fiorentina in what was a tough game. But two goals from Vicenzo Iaquinta secured Juventus a 2-0 win while AC Milan had Kaká and Alexandre Pato to thank for a 2-0 win that secure AC Milan the 2nd place and condemn Fiorentina to Europa League next season. 

Genoa secured 4th place in style by easily beating Lecce 4-1. Bosko Jankovic, Domenico Criscito and a double from Diego Milito securing the win with Simone Tiribocchi getting one back for Lecce. 

Champions Inter Milan were made to work for a final win of the season by Atalanta. Sully Muntari and Esteban Cambiasso were among the scorers with Zlatan Ibrahimovic getting a brace that secured the Golden Boot for him aswell. Cristiano Doni hit a brace with Luca Cigarini also scoring for the visitors. 

The final relegation spot was between Torino and Bologna. Torino knew nothing less than a win would do while Bologna needed a win also. Torino faced a trip to Roma while Bologna were at home to Catania. Torino lost 3-2 while Bologna got a 3-1 win to send Torino into Serie B. 

Elsewhere Udinese finished the season in style by thumping Cagliari 6-2 at the Friuli. Napoli recorded a 3-0 win over Chievo, Palermo were held to a 2-2 draw by Sampdoria and Reggina ended a poor season with a 1-1 draw at home to Siena. 

FC Nürnberg promoted

FC Nürnberg are back in the Bundesliga after a season away after completing a 5-0 aggergrate rout of Energie Cottbus. Having won 3-0 on Thursday Energie Cottbus knew a miracle would have to happen for them to secure their top flight status for next season. But goals from Christian Eigler and Marek Mintal ensured a happy day for FC Nürnberg. 

La Liga Final Day round-up:

The final day of the 2008-09 La Liga season concluded today with the relegation yet to be sorted. Both Recreativo and Numancia were already down going into this weekend's final round of matches but any five teams from Sporting Gijón, Real Betis, Getafe, Osasuna and Real Valladolid could've went down. 

Real Betis hosted Real Valladolid in a game that neither could lose. Real Valladolid took the lead when Marcos Aguirre found the net but Ricardo Oliveira levelled soon after. That result meant that Osasuna had to win to survive. Real Madrid had nothing to play for but took the lead thanks to Gonzalo Higuaín. Jaroslav Plasil levelled before Juanfran gave Osasuna the lead. Real Madrid had Michel Salgado and Klass Huntelaar sent-off. 

Racing Santander had nothing to play for and made Getafe work for the draw. Toni Moral gave Racing the lead before Esteban Granero levelled. Already relegated Recreativo visited El Mollinon looking to send Sporting Gijón down with them. They took the lead mid-way through the 1st half but strike from David Barral and Luis Moran secured Sporting of a top-flight place next season. 

So after that it was Sporting Gijón, Osasuna, Real Valladolid and Getafe who were safe but it was relegation for Real Betis. The team who in 2005-06 were in the champions league were heading for the Segunda. 

Elsewhere in Spain on Sunday Espanyol continued their fantastic form with a 3-0 home win over Málaga with Raúl Tamudo grabbing a hat-trick. Numancia went down with a 0-2 defeat to Sevilla with 2 late goals. Diego Perotti and a Juan Moreno own goal.