LIVE: Chelsea vs Aston Villa

Chelsea’s final match of 2012 sees them take on Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge in a game that has usually proven to be full of entertainment and served a hatful of goals.


24 times the back of the net has been smashed in their last four encounters on this ground resulting in a memorable 7-1 home thrashing of Villa and two high scoring draws (3-3 and 4-4) in recent years and we expect nothing less than a hard fought thriller today.

Both sides are in need of wins to jump up the table, though the Blues recent poor run of form has now made it a gigantic task if they are going to be genuine title contenders. Andre Villas-Boas, whose days may very well be numbered at the Bridge, has told fans that they are pretty much focusing on winning the Champions League now and making sure they actually are in the competition next season with the emergence of Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool’s resurgence meaning it could be a three way dog fight for fourth place between Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea… once upon a time three sides whose qualification almost seemed assured annually. Not finishing in the top four would be unthinkable for owner Roman Abramaovich.
source:whatculture

Manchester United v Wigan (Dec 26,2011). Game On!

Premier League champions Manchester United are looking to continue their good run of form with a win over revitalised Wigan at Old Trafford.



United have been impressive in their last two fixtures and after dispatching QPR 2-0 at Loftus Road, Sir Alex Ferguson’s men stayed in West London to win emphatically 5-0 against Fulham. United are unbeaten in eight games and will look to keep the run alive if they want to keep pace with league leaders Manchester City. Phil Jones should be available after a facial injury against Fulham. The Red Devils feared Jones had fractured his cheekbone in a challenge with Clint Dempsey, but the defender has just suffered an injury and should be back to face Wigan. Ashley Young is out for a few weeks with a knee problem, but United are looking comfortable and have players returning in the New Year. Ferguson is looking for maximum points in their next two games, first with Wigan and then a game against Blackburn at Old Trafford.

Wigan have been in good form in the last two matches, picking up vital points against Chelsea and Liverpool at the DW Stadium. Roberto Martinez’s men are one point away from getting out of the bottom three and with 16th placed Wolves facing Arsenal tomorrow, Wigan could be out of the bottom three with a win at Old Trafford. Martinez will assess Sreve Gohouri and Hugo Rodallega before deciding on his final squad. Gohouri has flu and Rodallega picked up an injury against Chelsea during last Saturday’s 1-1 draw.
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Chelsea vs Fulham Boxing Day Game

Dec 26, 2011 - Andre Villas-Boas has a minor injury crisis on his hands, but Chelsea will still feel like favorites going into their West London Derby against Fulham on Boxing Day.

Branislav Ivanovic and John Obi Mikel picked up injuries against Tottenham Hotspur that will keep them out on Monday, while Alex has been removed from the team and Michael Essien is still on the long-term injury list. David Luiz's fitness will be decided on Monday morning.

Against Tottenham, Chelsea played with Jose Bosingwa in the center of defense with Paulo Ferreira at right back. More like than that is a move from defensive midfield to central defense for Oriol Romeu, who spent some of his time at the position while playing for Barcelona B. This would likely mean a return to the starting XI for Frank Lampard, while Raul Meireles would play a deeper role.

Fulham were absolutely crushed by Manchester United in their last league match, and they were particularly exploited down the flanks. Moussa Dembele and Bryan Ruiz don't exactly do much defending when they're played as wingers, and Martin Jol will probably have to make a change to avoid being run over by Chelsea.
source,sbnation.com
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NFL CHANNEL: Philadelphia Eagles vs Dallas

The Dallas Cowboys have complete control of their path to another NFC East title, and they might be even closer by kickoff.

The Philadelphia Eagles' playoff fate could be determined then, too.

The Cowboys may have a chance to clinch the division crown when they host the surging Eagles on Saturday.

Dallas (8-6) leads the second-place New York Giants by one game and is two in front of the third-place Eagles (6-8) heading into the final two weeks of the regular season.

Only one of those teams will reach the playoffs, and the Cowboys could clinch that spot Saturday with a win combined with a Giants' loss to the New York Jets earlier in the day.

That matchup also has serious implications for Philadelphia, which also needs a Jets victory to remain alive in the division.

For the Eagles to repeat as East champions, they must beat the Cowboys and Washington at home on Jan. 1. They need the Giants to lose to the Jets and then beat Dallas in their last game.

That would leave all three teams at 8-8, and Philadelphia would own the tiebreaker based on a superior divisional record.

"I'm a big Jets fan this week," Eagles coach Andy Reid said. "You control what you control. You have to play the game whether that team wins or loses."

The Eagles' playoff hopes remained alive after a 45-19 romp over the Jets on Sunday, their second straight victory.

"It feels good that we are still alive," said tight end Brent Celek, who had a career-high 156 yards and one touchdown. "That is all you can ask for at this point. We just have to play together as a team and go up there, fight and beat Dallas."

The Cowboys should be eager for revenge after losing 34-7 at Philadelphia in Week 8. That was just their second loss in the last six meetings in the series since the Eagles kept them out of the playoffs with a 44-6 win in Week 17 of 2008.

"We've got to get the wins. We've got to get in," Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said. "Best way to do it is win this thing."

Dallas regained some momentum by beating Tampa Bay 31-15 last Saturday after blowing fourth-quarter leads in consecutive games.

"We just can't let up," receiver Dez Bryant said. "We know where we want to go and it don't matter who comes in here, we're going to keep the same intensity and just play hard and hopefully we can win out. ... We just got to keep focusing and keep playing hard."

Tony Romo is doing his part to get Dallas into the postseason, completing 69.9 percent of his passes for 869 yards with eight touchdowns, no interceptions and a 121.4 passer rating over the last three games.

Romo has thrown 18 touchdown passes and just two picks in the past seven contests since struggling with a season-low 66.7 rating against the Eagles. He finished with 203 yards on 18-of-35 passing with one touchdown and one INT in that defeat.

Romo has 13 touchdowns and 11 interceptions while going 5-4 as a starter against Philadelphia.
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Tottenham vs Chelsea LIVE

The visitors will field skipper John Terry despite the defender being charged on Wednesday with "a racially aggravated public order offence".

Villas-Boas will not be leaving Terry out, and insists he has the strength to cope.
"John has told me he is in the right frame of mind to play and showed fantastic commitment to the team," said Villas-Boas.





"His performances have been good and I don't doubt his integrity as a person.
"He represents this club to a maximum level and we're very grateful to have a player of his quality in our team, in what he represents in terms of history and achievements a the club.
"We know exactly his human values and personality, so we will support him whatever happens."
Tottenham line-up : Brad Friedel, Kyle Walker, William Gallas, Ledley King, Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Gareth Bale, Sandro, Scott Parker, Luka Modric, Rafael Van der Vaart, Emmanuel Adebayor.
Substitutes: Heurelho Gomes; Sebastien Bassong; Younes Kaboul; Danny Rose; Jake Livermore; Niko Kranjcar; Roman Pavlyuchenko
Chelsea line-up: Petr Cech, Jose Bosingwa, Branislav Ivanovic, John Terry, Ashley Cole, Ramires, John Mikel Obi, Raul Meireles, Daniel Sturridge, Didier Drogba, Juan Mata
Substitutes: Ross Turnbull, Paulo Ferreira, Oriol Romeu, Frank Lampard, Florent Malouda, Salomon Kalou, Fernando Torres.
Watch Match Here

Preview: Machester City v Arsena:l LIVE

On Monday against Chelsea, Manchester City had their unbeaten run ended. In the middle of a dead even game that looked like a draw all the way, Gael Clichy got himself sent off, gifting Chelsea an advantage that they would eventually capitalize on.
City are still very much on top of the table and regarded as the best team in England by most, but they showed that they are very much beatable if they lose their heads. Arsenal have the best goal-scorer in England, and will be looking to repeat Chelsea's feat.

Arsenal were far from brilliant against Everton, but Robin van Persie's game winner was perhaps the goal of the season thus far. The assist from Alex Song was just as nice as the finish, and the goal was a microcosm of Arsenal's season. Arsenal have been poor at times, often failing to get the job done against teams they should beat easily, but Song and van Persie have always shown up. They are Arsenal's two consistently world class players, and they will again be the key men on Sunday.

Clichy is suspended and Aleksandar Kolarov is just recovering from injury. Neither has performed brilliantly in defense this season, so Theo Walcott will be a key player for Arsenal. Arsenal knows what they will be getting from Song, van Persie, Thomas Vermaelen and Wojciech Szczęsny, but Walcott is a wildcard. Occasionally, he is downright brilliant. Occasionally, he is downright embarrassing. There may not be a player in the world who can go from spectacular to horrific as quickly as Walcott. He will have opportunities to make an impact for his team on Sunday, but it's anyone's guess whether or not he will take them.

CWC: Santos vs Barcelona Live

FC Barcelona VS Santos Futebol Clube, It is the final that most football fans expected, and indeed wanted, to see. Barcelona, the all-conquering European champions, take on South American kings Santos, whose exciting young stars have been vying with the Catalans for top billing here in Japan.
CWC SWith Neymar, Lionel Messi, Xavi, Ganso and many more sharing the same glittering stage, this promises to be a FIFA Club World Cup finale to remember. Dont Forget The Rising Star Alexis sanchez from BARCELONA Squad

Lionel Messy VS Neymar 18 December 2011

Barcelona will face Santos in the Club World Cup final. Carles Puyol hopes his team can show the best game to beat Santos.

Puyol has its own expectations for his team to the final game. This Sapnyol players truly appreciate the power of the candidate’s opponent. He also provides its own appreciation against Santos star, Neymar.

“It is clear that playing in the final is something different, we will face another team that was in another level, they have a very good player who knows well how to play the ball,” said Puyol.

“We knew that if we did not focus so we can not win. The most important thing is to play a good game, give the best of us and take the victory.”

“Finals are always 50-50, especially against good teams like Santos. We must do our best.”

“Neymar is a great player who makes a difference, he’s very good in a situation one on one and will be very difficult to guard.”

Preview: Real Madrid vs Sevilla LIVE

Source Goal.comA place in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona is likely to be what’s on offer to Real Madrid and Sevilla when they kick-off the second semi-final at the Bernabeu on Wednesday evening. Unlike Barca’s tie, nothing is yet settled before this fixture, though los Blancos start as strong favourites after a 1-0 victory at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan a week ago.
Since that fixture, Jose Mourinho’s side have suffered a real body-blow in the league, going down 1-0 against Osasuna on Sunday night. If talk of Barca having opened up a decisive four-point advantage prior to that game may have been a little over-hyped, the league would certainly appear to be the Catalans’ to throw away now they have a seven mark cushion.

“Tomorrow is a new day. There will be another match and we will be there,” Mourinho explained optimistically to the media on Sunday night.

Silverware in knockout competition remains a distinct possibility for los Merengues, though. Still in the Champions League, Madrid will first focus on Wednesday’s Copa encounter against Sevilla. A Karim Benzema strike presently separates the sides, giving the capital side real hope that they can progress to the final, where they could potentially gain some measure of revenge against Barca.

If los Blancos have been a little unconvincing away from home, at the Bernabeu they have been imperious under Mourinho, winning every match they’ve played. On Wednesday they really need to bounce back and give their fans a lift, and the odds are in favour of them doing just that.
Sevilla are a side also struggling to match their supporters’ expectations in the Primera Division, though these are not as lofty as those in Madrid. European football is anticipated at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan next season, though presently stationed eighth in the standings, it’s difficult to see such hopes being matched by way of a strong Liga finish.

The Copa del Rey offers los Nervionenses another way into the Europa League, and Gregorio Manzano’s side will be doubly determined to win the competition because they are the defending champions, having negotiated their way past Barcelona last term to life the trophy.
Source: Goal.com Repeating that feat presently looks unlikely. Sevilla’s strength is generally their home form, so after losing the first leg 1-0, their hopes look slim. Los Rojiblancos certainly pushed their opponents all the way last Wednesday night and were controversially denied a goal when Raul Albiol cleared off the line from Luis Fabiano. It was a decision so tight, even television replays were inconclusive.

If the character of the Sevilla side was being questioned previously, Saturday night’s encounter against Deportivo La Coruna should have silenced any critics as the Andalucians bounced back from 2-0 and 3-1 down to secure a draw against the Galicians, despite playing the final 30 minutes with only 10 men after Andres Palop had been dismissed.

Manzano will have to whip up similar enthusiasm if a remarkable recovery is to be achieved against Madrid.

Real Madrid vs Barcelona: EL CLASSICO is upon us agan. LIVE

The two titans of modern day football meet yet again in what promises to be a nerve racking
fierce battle. Real Madrid vs Barcelona in modern day football can be compared to an old greek-roman empire

battle with everything up for grabs. Madrid have put on an impressive run of form this season by avoiding defeat in any game they have played so far. Their star and talisman
Ronaldo was quoted as saying "he looks forward to putting up his best for the game". One would easily think Barcelona can only come second to Madrid this season but Guardiola's men are still the best team in the world today.
They would have to face their nemisis and old rivals to prove they are still in contention for trophies this season.However, when it comes to proving themselves once again, Barcelona have that in their bag. It is a game for superioruty,a game where both talismen, Ronaldo and Messi will need to prove their best to the world again.Obiviously, it can't be a game between Messi and Ronaldo only because when it comes to El Classico, anyone can be a hero. The likes of Xavi, Ozil ,Kaka, Fabregas, Pedro, are all in the mix to prove themselves.Its about club and country pride, and this game is just the perfect
game to prove your worth. Watch it live on this channel.
Match Link Here

Liverpool vs Queens Park Rangers LIVE

Source: Whatculture: When looking at Liverpool’s results this season it’s pretty obvious to see why they are in the position they are in. They have dropped too many points against the bottom half clubs in the league compared to the sides above them. The likes of Norwich, Swansea and Sunderland have come to Anfield and got away with something.


Which brings us to today’s game against 11th place QPR on their own ground at Anfield. On paper, this should be a match that Liverpool take the maximum points against a side that just recently got promoted. But then history tell us Liverpool have only won one of their last seven matches against newly-promoted Premier League sides and it’s these dropped points that are a major reason why they haven’t been challenging for so long.

QPR have been a bit of a yo-yo club this season. They have been trashed by the likes of Bolton and Fulham shipping ten goals without return in those fixtures but then have picked up surprise results elsewhere and have amassed a six point distance away from the relegation zone. They were even very unlucky to lose against Manchester City. This doesn’t feel like a newly promoted side and manager Neil Warnock has them playing like they have been here all along.

Should be an interesting game today and the safe bet would be to bet on a draw!
Match Link Here

Fullham vs Liverpool LIVE!

Source: football-talk : Liverpool travel to Craven Cottage to take on Fulham tonight and will look to continue an unbeaten streak that stretches back 11 games in all competitions as well as equalling a club record for successive away victories.


Liverpool have not lost since that terrible 4-0 away defeat against Tottenham and are in a good run of form with two wins against Chelsea and a draw against Manchester City in their last three games. Victory against Fulham will mean six successive victories on the road for the Reds, equal to a club record. And, if things go like they did last season, that could very well be the case.

Liverpool did the double over Fulham last season, grinding out a 1-0 win at Anfield and then demolishing the Cottagers 5-2 away from home. In that game, Maxi Rodriguez ran riot, scoring a stunning hat-trick including a screamer from 30 yards.

The Argentine has been unlucky to find himself on the bench for the majority of this season but has been selected to start in two of the last three matches, scoring two goals in the process and hopefully earning his spot back in the line-up.

Today's Picks:( Real Madrid vs Gijon) & (Aston Villa vs Man UTD)

Real Madrid - Sporting Gijon
Sporting Gijon haven’t had the best of starts to the 2011-12 campaign, they sit in the relegation zone after finishing in 10th place last term. The Rojiblancos lost 4-0 to high flyers Levante last time out and many would predict that they’ll lose again on Saturday night.

Real Madrid? Well, they’re on fire. Three points clear of Barcelona at the top and beat rivals Atletico 4-0 last time they played a La Liga match. Madrid haven’t won the title since the 2007-2008 season so to win it this year would end that horrid four years without winning the La Liga title. Jose Mourinho’s side can look forward to the El Classico which is on December 10 with real enthusiasm.







Aston Villa vs Manchester UTD
After an awful week for Sir. Alex Ferguson where his side dropped two points against Newcastle United and were forced out of the Carling Cup at the hands of Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, at least the veteran boss can be thankful that history is on his side for today’s late Premier League kick-off against Aston Villa.
Villa have only won once against Man Utd in 29 home and away meetings and at Villa Park, Utd haven’t lost in their last fifteen visits – not since the days of Dwight Yorke scoring for the home side, only to be then quickly snatched up by Fergie so that he wouldn’t do it again!
Ferguson today comes up against his old defensive key man Alex McLeish, who played under the Scottish boss three decades ago at Aberdeen and who still hasn’t warmed himself after his move from local rivals Birmingham. Though a victory against Utd today will at least make him forgiven for his past sins for a few hours at least.

Preview : Genoa vs Milan Live

Source: Yahoo sports:AC Milan have already scored seven goals from corners and 11 overall from set pieces – a Serie A-high.

Genoa are unbeaten at home in their last nine Serie A games (seven wins and two draws): their last defeat was back in April against Cagliari.

However, Genoa have won just two of their last eight league fixtures.This promises to be an interesting game so watch it live.




Genoa have beaten AC Milan just twice in their last 20 Serie A meetings, both at the Marassi.
Despite this, the Rossoneri have won just one in their last 11 visits to Genoa, in August 2007.

AC Milan have kept three consecutive clean sheets in their last three league games.

In their last seven games, the Rossoneri have scored a total of 22 goals: they have scored three or more goals in all but the goalless draw in Florence.

Alberto Malesani’s sides have never shared a draw against AC Milan (six wins for his sides and nine defeats).

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has scored six goals in his last five Serie A appearances.

Only Antonio Cassano (seven) has made more assists than Alberto Aquilani (six) in this Serie A campaign.
Read more: uk.eurosport.yahoo.com

Malaga vs Villareal

Live and Picks : Malaga come into the game after a 3-1 win away at Racing Santander, a much needed second away win of the season and one that ensured Malaga hang onto the Europa League spot that they aim to occupy at the end of the campaign.Showing on this channel. Malaga have a fair few injuries heading into the game with defender Weligton, captain Jesus Gamez, powerful striker Julio Baptista and midfielder Joaquin Sanchez all missing tonight's game.Villarreal climbed up to second in the Primera Division standings after seeing off 10-man Malaga in a hugely entertaining encounter at La Rosaleda.




All the key incidents came during a breathless first half, which saw hosts Malaga take an early lead through Eliseu Pereira before Villarreal hit back with goals from Santi Cazorla and Giuseppe Rossi.
Malaga, looking for their first home win since beating Villarreal 2-0 in March of last season, levelled the scores when Jose Salomon Rondon headed home but the Yellow Submarine restored their lead in the 33rd minute, with Cazorla netting his second.
That proved to be the winning goal as Malaga could find no way back, and Eliseu was shown a straight red card in the 41st minute.
Villarreal went into the clash having won three successive league matches since losing to Espanyol on the opening day of the season but they were quickly on the back foot after conceding just four minutes in.
A short free-kick was played to the corner of the penalty area where Eliseu smashed an unstoppable left-footed shot in off the underside off the bar with Villarreal goalkeeper Diego Lopez motionless.
The visitors were back on terms 16 minutes later, though, thanks to Cazorla, whose shot from the corner of the box took a deflection off Malaga midfielder Antonio Apono before beating Ruben Martinez at his near post.

Barclays Premier League Week 13 Preview

Source: bleacherreport.com: Another weekend is nearly upon us and there is no doubt that this one will be just as exciting or more so than the last.

Both of the league-leading Manchester clubs will be tested once again, and Liverpool will have the chance to truly prove they are improving when they take on the Sky Blues at Anfield in front of a packed Kop.


CHELSEA VS WOLVES
Chelsea thought that they could pull off a late victory over Liverpool as their second half looked to be heading that way in the first 20 minutes, but the Reds turned the table slowly and it would prove fatal to Andre Villas-Boas' side.

The Blues should have little trouble with Wolverhampton Wanderers, and the thought of a third straight loss at the Bridge is more than they could handle.

MAN UTD VS NEWCASTLE

Manchester United continued to improve their defensive record with another clean sheet against Swansea City for a quiet third victory in a row. But, a win is a win in the EPL and the Red Devils will hope to build on their streak when they host Newcastle United.

The Magpies have had a flying start to their season, but the games like last week's against Manchester City and this week's against United are the ones that define your season. If they are to be considered for a legitimate top-four place, they have to beat the best teams in the league.


ARSENAL VS FULHAM
Arsenal are on the hottest streak in the league right now, aside from Manchester City, with five straight victories and 15 points from their last 18 possible. Robin van Persie's league-leading 13 goals are a testament to the importance the Dutchman has been so far for Arsene Wenger as his defense is still not doing the job.

Fulham continue to have a frustrating start after having slumped to another draw last weekend against Sunderland. Two wins in their last six games is not enough for Martin Jol or his squad.

LIVERPOOL VS MANCHESTER CITY
Liverpool shocked everyone that doubted them last weekend against Chelsea. Kenny Dalglish opted for Maxi Rodriguez and Craig Bellamy in the starting lineup over Stewart Downing and Andy Carroll and it proved a good gamble.

But it would be Glen Johnson who stole the show for the Reds as he took center stage with his late individual effort to give his side the victory.

Manchester City defeated the only other unbeaten team last weekend when they knocked Newcastle United out of their high seat and back to reality. After seeing the Reds beat Chelsea and should have beaten Manchester United, it is proven they can get up for big games and could be a surprise club that could take down the Citizens.


STOKE VS BLACKBURN
With the tough home-and-away schedule that has pushed them to the brink due to their Europa League involvement, they could be able to take advantage of a relaxed squad on Thursday night in order to have their strongest side ready for a must-win match against Blackburn Rovers.

In the last six games, Rovers have managed three draws and three losses, hardly ideal for a club that wants to at least stay up in the EPL. Steve Keane continues to have the belief of the owners, but as for the fans, they want him out yesterday.

watch all matches here

ASRoma vs Udnese Preview

Source: Espn - Roma coach Luciano Spalletti looks set to rest captain Francesco Totti for tomorrow's Serie A match against Udinese to ensure his fitness for the Champions League last-16 second leg against Arsenal.
Totti has a knee problem and is not likely to feature tomorrow as a precaution, with Wednesday's game very much in mind.
"Totti still feels pain on his knee,'' said Roma's fitness trainer Vito Scala. "Our aim is to recover Totti for Wednesday's game against Arsenal.''
The Eternal City outfit lost 1-0 to the Premier League side in the first-leg meeting in London and will be looking to overturn that result and reach the quarter-finals of Europe's elite club competition for a second consecutive year.
But first, Roma must turn their attention back to domestic matters as they look to cut the gap to third-placed AC Milan.
With 12 games remaining, Spalletti's side occupy sixth spot, four points behind the Rossoneri - who hold the last automatic Champions League berth.
If results go their way, Roma could go into next week's European showdown already in fourth spot.
Fourth-placed Fiorentina are two points clear of Roma while Genoa, in fifth, are one point ahead of the Giallorossi.

With Fiorentina entertaining Palermo and Genoa facing a huge challenge when they host league leaders Inter Milan this weekend, Roma fans will be hoping their team can climb up in the standings.
However, Spalletti faces selection problems with just one striker - Vincenzo Montella - definitely fit for the clash against Udinese.
Jeremy Menez and Julio Baptista are both out of action with the flu and team's top scorer Mirko Vucinic is struggling with a back injury.
Spalletti hopes to recover Vucinic, who has notched eight goals so far this season.
The Giallorossi will be looking to bounce back after the disappointment of letting slip a two-goal lead to draw 3-3 at Inter in their last Serie A clash last weekend.
"It's difficult to be happy with this result especially when my team played with such intensity,'' admitted Spalletti.



The Giallorossi will fancy their chances for they have not lost at the Stadio Olimpico since October 19 while Udinese have failed to win on the road in the last four months.
However, the Friuli outfit go into the encounter at the Stadio Olimpico in buoyant mood with last weekend's 2-0 triumph over Lecce extending their advantage over the drop zone to 11 points.
Udinese defender Felipe believes his team will have plenty of motivation to take home three points.
"You are always more fired up when you play against top teams,'' he said. "We have lost many points on the road this campaign and now we have to recover them, starting on Saturday.
"Three points against Roma would be crucial for our aim to avoid the drop, which is right now our aim.''
Udinese coach Pasquale Marino will be without the services of striker Fabio Quagliarella and defender Aleksandar Lukovic. The former is out with a fever and the latter struggling with a problematic knee.
Moreover, defender Maurizio Domizzi must serve a one-match ban.
Watch Game Here

AC Milan vs FC barcelona:Key battles! Watch Live

The Serie A Champions welcome their Spanish counterparts to the Giuseppe Meazza on the match day 5 of Group H. With both the European giants having been in exceptional form lately, and the first match ending in a dramatic 2-2 draw, a nail biting encounter is predicted at the San Siro.

Venue: San Siro - Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, Milan

Date: Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Kick Off: 7:45 PM GMT

AC Milan news:

Expected lineup:  Abbiati; Abate, Nesta, Silva, Antonini; Aquilani, Ambrosini, Nocerino; Seedorf, Ibrahimovic, Pato

With a number of players returning from injury and suspension, Massimilano Allegri will have a wide range to choose his starting XI from. Seedorf is most likely to start ahead of Boateng behind the too strikers, as his vast experience gives him an edge over the Ghanayan mid fielder. However, Boateng, Robinho and Ambrosini are likely to be seen in the second half of the match to equal the stamina of the fast paced Catalans. Alexandre Pato will see his return from injury against the Spanish giants; the Brazilian came on late at the weekend in the match against Fiorentina and put on a good performance for the Rossoneri. Cassano and Gattuso are both out with long term injuries. The former is, however, showing signs of recovery as he visited his team mates at the milanello training centre Monday afternoon. Milan will be looking to pile pressure on the current Champions from the start by pushing players high up the field to avoid granting Barcelona with all the possession – their most lethal weapon (after Messi).

Man to Watch: Zlatan Ibrahimović

Without a doubt, all eyes will be on the big Swede on Wednesday night as he faces his former club, which he left following a protracted controversy. He has been catching headlines for both the good, and the bad reasons lately, with the latter cancelling out the effect of the former, following the recent release of his controversial autobiography, which contains a plethora of negative remarks about his ex-teammates and Coach Pep Guardiola. Ibrahimovic will be the only one in the Milan squad who will play this match with a burning desire to win, so If Milan have any chances of beating Barcelona, their strategies will be highly dependent on the prolific goal scorer and his Brazilian strike partner.

Barcelona news:

Expected lineup: Valdes; Puyol, Pique, Mascherano, Abidal; Busquets, Xavi; Fabregas, Sanchez; Villa, Messi

There are many facts and figures which underpin the intensity of this match. On one side, Alexandre Pato scored the fifth fastest goal in the history of the competition (24 seconds) at Camp Nou in the 2-2 draw on September 13, 2011, and on the other, the Spanish side have outscored their opponents 9-0 in their last two away matches in Group H. Pep Guardiola was hit by a storm of an injury ahead of the clash as he will have to make do without the services of Andres Iniesta. The midfielder picked up a thigh injury in Saturday's 4-0 Liga win over Zaragoza and Barca have now revealed on their official website that Iniesta has not been included in the match squad for the crunch clash at San Siro. Another setback is that of Dani Alves, who is suspended for this match day. Sergio Busquets tried to cool down the situation regarding Barcelona and Ibra after the midfielder insisted that his side will not be looking for revenge against AC Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic in Wednesday's Champions League match. "We are thinking about Milan, not just one particular player, this is Milan v Barca, not Ibrahimovic v Barca.” Busquets told a press conference. The Blaugrana will secure qualification for the last 16 as group leader if they win in Milan.

Man to Watch: Lionel Messi

Arguably the best footballer in the world right now, Lio is the joint top scorer in the Champions League with five goals to his name. The in-form striker found the back of the net in the 4-0 win over Zaragoza at the weekend. Surely, the lightning quick star will pose the biggest threat to the Italian side. In the last encounter between the two sides, Messi was excellently managed by Veteran defender Alessandro Nesta. Can the Milan backline manage to cope up with his fast pace and one-touch football to stop him from finding the back of the net? Only time will tell…

The most anticipated match of this Champions League round will provide a nail biting 90 minutes for all football lovers. Barcelona are likely to be the dominant force in the game, but provided the advantages of the home stadium, and an injury-hit Iniesta, the Rossoneri might just clinch a narrow victory to go into the last match day on top of Group H.

AC MILAN 1 – 1 BARCELONA

source: http://www.sportpulse.net

Preview Patriots vs Chiefs!

1. Will the defense continue to improve?

New England's defense made strides in last week's 37-16 victory against the New York Jets. But this often-criticized unit still has a lot to prove. The Patriots remained last in total defense entering Week 11. But New England has the NFL's easiest remaining schedule. Also, playing against Kansas City backup quarterback Tyler Palko should help. Expect New England, which had five sacks last week, to be fearless in pressuring Palko. The Patriots have to feel confident Palko cannot beat them with his arm.

2. What does Romeo Crennel have in store?

Very few coaches know New England's personnel better than Kansas City defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel. He was the Patriots' defensive coordinator during their three Super Bowl titles last decade. Crennel's defenses had to practice every day against Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, and many are curious to see what Crennel draws up against his former team. Kansas City playing stellar defense is one of the few ways the Chiefs can pull off the upset.

3. Can the Patriots stay injury-free?

The last time the Patriots played the Kansas City Chiefs in 2008, Brady suffered a season-ending knee injury. This is exactly the type of thing New England needs to avoid Monday night. The Patriots are expected to win this game pretty convincingly. But that doesn't mean it won't be a physical game. The best thing New England can do is jump on Kansas City early, then allow some of the Patriots' key players to rest in the fourth quarter.
Match Link Here

source nfl nation.com

Barcelona vs Ac Milan UEFA Champions League Preview 1

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has described next week's Champions League Group H clash against Barcelona as being like a "final".The Italian also said Pep Guardiola's men are the best in the world as he looks forward to the return of domestic and European action after the international break.

Milan will be hoping to overtake Barcelona in the standings as the Spanish side currently lead Allegri's men by two points.

"Barcelona are the strongest team and so we have to see the game as if it is a final," Allegri told the press.

"But, for now, what counts is Saturday's [Serie A] game against Fiorentina."

Earlier, club CEO Adriano Galliani said he had always dreamed of signing Chelsea's Didier Drogba, but the coach has other ideas.

"It's all just rumours. We are getting close to the transfer market and so the usual games are being played," he added.

"We have to see what we may need. Who knows, we might not even sign anyone in January."

Milan travel to Fiorentina on Saturday night and kick-off at the Artemio Franchi is at 19.45CET. 

Ronaldo fit to face Valencia

Real Madrid assistant coach Aitor Karanka revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo will feature against Valencia after shaking off an injury he picked up on international duty on Tuesday.

The 26-year-old sustained a thigh strain in Portugal's 6-2 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina and Karanka has confirmed that Ronaldo is fit to play on Saturday but revealed that Kaka and Ricardo Carvalho would not make the trip to Mestalla.

"Cristiano trained yesterday and the day before yesterday. He's fine. Marcelo is in the squad-list, but Kaka isn't. Nuri Sahin might play depending on how the match goes.

"Carvalho is still recovering and feeling better every day. He is working with a lot of will."

Karanka then warned Madrid fans not to expect a repeat of last season's 6-3 win over los Che at Mestalla.

"Last season's match against Valencia wasn't normal. Tomorrow's will be totally different as Mestalla is one of those stadiums where you win important points."

The 38-year-old also spoke about Hamit Altintop's comments that he was not playing enough and could leave the club, saying the Turk is training with renewed vigour.

"Altintop has returned from playing with Turkey with more desire to train."

Finally, Karanka spoke out about the racism row currently embroiling Fifa president Sepp Blatter, stating his belief that footballers should be examples to the community.

"People have got to be careful with racist comments. We are an example for lots of kids."
Source: Goal.com

England striker Wayne Rooney is set to learn the outcome of his appeal against his three-match ban for violent conduct on December 9, Uefa has revealed.

The Manchester United forward was handed the suspension following his off-the-ball clash with Montenegro defender Miodrag Dzudovic during the two sides' Group G Euro 2012 qualifier 7 October.

However, the FA submitted an appeal on November 4 against the ban, which currently rules Rooney out of the group stages of next summer's European Championships, and it is poised to learn the outcome when Uefa’s Appeals Body meets in Nyon.

Rooney missed out on a call-up for England’s two recent friendly matches against Spain and Sweden as Fabio Capello experiments with the other forwards at his disposal given that the Manchester United man will miss all of the group games in Ukraine and Poland if his full ban is upheld.

Uefa to review England striker Wayne Rooney's three-match Euro 2012 ban

England striker Wayne Rooney is set to learn the outcome of his appeal against his three-match ban for violent conduct on December 9, Uefa has revealed.

The Manchester United forward was handed the suspension following his off-the-ball clash with Montenegro defender Miodrag Dzudovic during the two sides' Group G Euro 2012 qualifier 7 October.

However, the FA submitted an appeal on November 4 against the ban, which currently rules Rooney out of the group stages of next summer's European Championships, and it is poised to learn the outcome when Uefa’s Appeals Body meets in Nyon.

Rooney missed out on a call-up for England’s two recent friendly matches against Spain and Sweden as Fabio Capello experiments with the other forwards at his disposal given that the Manchester United man will miss all of the group games in Ukraine and Poland if his full ban is upheld.