Diego Costa - the biggest mistake Brazil could do

Whoever didn't know the name Diego Costa before probably knew him yesterday after scoring the winner for Atletico Madrid against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu to win the derby for the first time in 14 years in the Liga competition.

The 24 year-old Brazilian footballer is a very aggressive player, a troublemaker, but he is one of the greatest modern strikers in the game right now who is given the freedom by Diego Simeone to float around near the opponent's box.

Costa scored 10 goals last season and did seven assists in the Liga, he was also the Copa del Rey top scorer with eight goals which clearly helped his team win the title. He is in top form this season having scored 8 goals from seven games putting him joint top scorer with Lionel Messi.

All the above stats seems not interesting for Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari who only called him twice for friendlies in May 2013 against Italy and Russia, but was left out of the squad for the summer's Confed Cup. He had been granted the Spanish nationality in July 2013 and since he didn't played a competitive game for Brazil, he is free to make the switch.

"If Del Bosque calls me up, how could I say no? I'm going to choose the national team with which I feel most comfortable", the Atletico Madrid striker told Brazilian site Lance. So if Diego decided to play for Spain it is due to the lack of confidence and faith that his native country has showed in him.

Brazil or Spain, whoever Costa decied to go with will be so lucky having such a prolific striker in their squad ahead of the Word Cup.

Barca downs Sociedad as Neymar scores first liga goal

image source: foxnews.com

La Liga - Result: Barcelona 4 (Neymar 5, Messi 8, Busquets 23, Barta 77) Real Sociedad 1 (De la Bella 64).

Barcelona scored a routine four goals for the third consecutive time to win 4-1 over Real Sociedad at the Camp Nou, the match also witnessed Neymar first Liga goal after just five minutes.

Messi, Neymar, Sanchez, Pedro and almost every other player had a chance to add a goal or two, but the post and some low concentration from the players saved Sociedad from a real humiliation tonight.

Barca continued their perfect start of the La Liga season as they won all six games to stay top of the table, three points ahead of Atletico Madrid who are playing Osasuna at the Vicente Calderón tonight with a chance to continue their perfect start as well.

Serena beats Azarenka to win US Open

World number one Serena Williams defeated Belarusian Victoria Azarenka 7-5 6-7 6-1 to win her 5th US open title after (1999, 2002, 2008, 2012) and her 17th grand slam title overall.

The Amercian was 4-1 up in the second set with double breaks but Viki clawed her way back and forced a tie break which she won 8-6 to level the match, however Azarenka had nothing left in the third set as she lost it 6-1.

This is Serena's second grand slam title after the French open where she defeated Maria Sharapova 6-4 6-4, she now has 17 grand slams, the same number as Swiss Ace Roger Federer.

Gareth Bale finally signs for Real Madrid

Real Madrid had confirmed the signing of Tottenham and Wales international Gareth Bale who will play for Los Blancos for the next 6 seasons.

The deal which had been dragging all summer was finally announced by AVB following the Spurs derby defeat by the Gunners where he said "He is going to join Real Madrid and we wish him all the best". It was later confirmed by Madrid on Social Media.

"Real Madrid C.F. and Tottenham Hotspur FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of Gareth Bale who will play for the Whites for the next 6 seasons. The player will be presented tomorrow at 13:00 CET at the Santiago Bernabéu.", Real Madrid Facebook page wrote in a statement.

The 24 year-old joined Tottenham in 2007 from Southampton and he developed year after year to become one of the best footballers in the world, his transfer fee isn't yet confirmed if it will break the record held by Cristiano Ronaldo (€93 million).

Barcelona start Liga defense with superb form

The Spanish champions scored seven past Levante at the Camp Nou as they kicked off their domestic season in style.

Goals from Sanchez, Messi (x2), Alves, Pedro (x2) and Xavi helped the Catalan giants hammer a weak Levante side who couldn't keep pace with their opponents and depended on an offside trap plan that obviously didn't work.

Barcelona new manager Tata Martino's mark was clearly out there on the field as the team looked much sharper in their pressing game and more effective inside the box with their direct approach, all this happened without losing the entertainment of the tiki-taka as they possessed the first half with 77%.

50 million euros for David Luiz or nothing

image source: warsidaha.com 

Chelsea has rejected an estimated 25 million euros offer from Barcelona for Brazilian defensive midfielder David Luiz, and the Blues told the Catalans to double their offer if they want to capture the deal before the transfer window closes at August 31.

Barcelona are eager to sign a top notch defender to strengthen their back-line after last year defeats to Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and others, but the price they are paying for Luiz is less than the one Chelsea paid for Benfica to capture the 26 year-old defender back in 2011 which makes no sense for the Londoners to sell him.

The alternatives for the Spanish champions are Tottenham's Jan Vertonghen and Liverpool's Daniel Agger where also it seems that both teams have no intent in selling their players.

Should Barcelona pay the €50 million Chelsea are asking for, let us know your opinion in the comments section?

Neymar scored first Barcelona goal in friendly

image source: www.dipnot.tv

Neymar scored his first goal for the Barcelona as they thrashed Thailand 7-1 in a preseason friendly match.

Messi added two goals, Pedro three and Alexis Sanchez one with Thailand's only reply coming from a penalty just before halftime.

Messi, Ronaldo and Ribèry shortlisted for UEFA award

Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich) and Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) have been shortlisted for the 2012/13 UEFA Best Player in Europe Award.

The winner will be voted live in Monaco during the 2013/14 UEFA Champions League group stage draw on August 29.

Messi won La Liga title last season with Barcelona scoring an astonishing 46 goals to win the Golden boot award as well. 

Real Madrid Ace, Ronaldo, didn't won any major trophy last term but was top scorer in the Champions League.

French star, Frank Ribery, led Bayern Munich for a historical treble where they were unstoppable.

Who do you think deserve the trophy more?

Audi Cup - Bayern Munich beat Manchester City to win title

Bayern Munich beat Manchester City 2-1 in an entertaining match at the Allianz Arena to win Audi Cup.

Manchester City's new signing Alvaro Negredo opened the score sheet after 61 minutes, but European champions couldn't be denied  on their own pitch as they scored 2 goals in the next 12 minutes by Muller  and super substitute Mandzukic to claim the title.

Result:
Bayern Munich 2 (Muller (pen) 65, Mandzukic 73)   Manchester City 1 (Negredo 61).

Higuaín signs for Napoli

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Napoli had confirmed through their website and a tweet from club president Aurelio de Laurentiis that Gonzalo Higuaín has signed a a five-year deal for the amount of 40 million euros.

The 25-year-old Argentine who scored 122 goals from 264 appearances for Los Blancos in six seasons will be making 4.5 million euros a year.

Bale wants Real Madrid move

image source: www.thesun.co.uk

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Gareth Bale had handed Spurs chairman Daniel Levy a transfer request which says: "You made me a promise. You promised me if we didn't qualify for the Champions League and a good offer turned up you'd listen to it. Well that offer has arrived and I want to play for Real Madrid. So keep your word and negotiate".

Marca also claimed that Bale told Levy that he is not interested in offers from Manchester United or any other club and that the Welsh player only sees his future at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Tottenham Hotspur's strategy is to make Bale's transfer the highest fee in football history even if it costs one more pound than Ronlado's £80 million fee for his transfer from Manchester United to Real Madrid back in 2009, in this way Spurs will show the fans that they sold their star for something worthy.

The Sun had claimed that the Spanish giants have offered £80 million for the deal, while other reports mentioned a higher number, £86.3 million (100 million euros), but the one common thing between reports is that Tottenham have turned it down without hesitating.

Guardiola's Bayern down Barca in friendly

Bayern Munich won 2-0 over Barcelona in a friendly match at the Allianz Arena in this year's Uli Hoeness Cup

Goals from Philipp Lahm and Mario Mandzukic were enough for Bayern to secure a comfortable win over La Liga champions.

Official: Barcelona sign Gerardo Martino for two seasons

FC Barcelona had announced on their official website that they had reached an agreement with Gerardo Martino to be the manager of the club for the next two seasons.

The 50-year-old who is born in Rosario revealed that he is an admirer for Barcelona's tiki-taka. He was the Manager for Paraguay in 2010 Fifa world cup when they reached the quarters for the first time and Newell's Old Boys' Boss last season when they won their sixth Argentine Primera División.

Gerardo Martino is the fourth Argentinian manager in Barcelona history after Roque Olsen, Helenio Herrera and César Luis Menotti.

Who will get the Barcelona job?

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Gerardo 'Tata' Martino, former Paraguay and Newell's Old Boys coach, who is not currently managing a team is one of the favorites to replace Vilanova.

The 50-year-old who is born in Rosario, same city as Leo Messi is an admirer for Barcelona's tiki-taka, he was the head-coach for Paraguay in 2010 Fifa world cup where they reached the quarter-finals for the first time and the Boss for Newell's Old Boys last season (2012-2013) as they won their sixth Argentine Primera División.

According to Marca.com, Barcelona are already in contact with Messi's favorite Martino regarding their available vacancy.


Guus Hiddink has just resigned as manager of Russian club Anzhi, and is already rumored for Barcelona's job, he is one of the best managers in the recent era who led South Korea to the semi-finals at  2002 Fifa world cup.

The 66-year-old experience is unquestionable, he already managed  PSV, Fenerbahce, Netherlands, Real Madrid, Real Betis, South Korea, Australia, Russia, Chelsea and Turkey.


Luis Enrique, the former Barcelona and Real Madrid Player, started his managing career in 2008 at Barcelona B where he spent three years at the club before going to Roma for one season in 2011-2012.

On June 8th 2013 Luis Enrique became Celta de Vigo's Boss, but since Vilanova announced his resignation, he is now one of the favourites for the job.

PSG confirms Roma's Marquinhos signing

image source: forzaitalianfootball.com

French champions Paris Saint-German have confirmed the signing of  Roma defender Marquinhos  for 35 million euros for five-year deal to become the fifth most expensive defender of all time.

The 19 year-old Brazillian defender joined Roma last summer from Corinthians for only 3.7 million euros, he will wear the number five shirt at PSG.

Alvaro Negredo signs for Manchester City

image source:  commons.wikimedia.org

Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Sevilla's forward Alvaro Negredo for 28 million euros.

"City are delighted to announce the signing of Alvaro Negredo, who becomes the Club’s third new recruit of the summer." a statement on the club's official website said.

"The Spanish international follows Jesus Navas in making the switch from Sevilla.  He will join up with the squad on the pre-season tour, and wear the number 9 shirt."

source: http://www.mcfc.com/News/Team-news/2013/July/Negredo-signs-for-City

Tito Vilanova Steps down as Barcelona coach

image source: thesun.co.uk

Barcelona president Sandro Rosell announced this afternoon in an emergency press conference that the Catalan manager will not continue at Barcelona due to recurrence of his cancer.

The club said they will name the replacement next week hopefully, and that the team will not travel to Poland on Saturday.

Joan Francesc Ferrer, ‘Rubi’, former Girona coach who joined Barcelona coaching staff this year will be temporarily the head coach of the club.

PSG secure Edinson Cavani signing for 64 million euros

image source: blogspot.com

Paris Saint-Germain have secured the signing of Napoli and Uruguay talisman Edinson Cavani for 64 million euros for five-year deal.

Cavani scored 104 goals from a total of 138 matches with Napoli, and was the Serie A top scorer last season with 29 goals.

The Uruguay international was linked with many big names this summer like Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester City but PSG sealed the deal with the new Ligue 1 transfer record of 64 million euros, the previous record belonged to Monaco, which recently paid an estimated 60 million euros for Colombia striker Radamel Falcao.

"I am familiar with Ligue 1 and I know many players in the team, My message to the fans and the city is that I want to win and complete all of our objectives." said Cavani.

Manchester United offer 30 million euro for Cesc Fabregas

image source: www.independent.co.uk

Manchester United offered 30 million euros to Barcelona for Cesc Fabregas services.

After failing to sign former Barca midfielder Thiago Alcantara, Man United had turn their attention to another Catalan midfielder, the ex-Arsenal star Cesc Febregas.

Manchester United will have to wait now for Barcelona to respond now regarding the offer that they just made this Monday on July 15th.

Since he joined the Blaugranas back in 2011, Fabregas wasn't in top form although he scored 29 goals and helped his team with 32 assists from a total of 96 games. 

Thiago Alcantara to Bayern Munich for 25 million euros

image source: hereisthecity.com

Barcelona and Bayern Munich have reached an agreement that Thiago Alcantara will join the Bundesliga  and European champions for a fee of 25 million euros. The agreement also includes that a friendly match between the two teams will be played  in the next four years.

The Spanish midfielder, 22 year-old, leaves Barcelona after playing for the first team for two seasons scoring seven goals, he will join up again with his former Barcelona coach, Pep Guardiola.

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, Bayern Munich Chairman, said in a statement: "Thiago Alcântara was the biggest wish of our new coach, Pep Guardiola. We are pleased that we have been able to seal this great transfer. Thiago is a fantastic player with great perspective, which will strengthen Bayern"

Thiago was named the best player at the European Under-21 Championship after his brilliant performance in the final when he scored a treble in Spain's 4-2 win over Italy.

France Under-20 win World Cup Turkey 2013

France beat Uruguay on penalties  to win Under-20 World Cup for the first time in their history.

Both teams couldn't find the net after 120 minutes of play resulting in a penalty shootout which France won 4-1.

Earlier in the same night, Ghana beat Iraq 3-0 in the third-place match.

Real Madrid sign Illarramendi for 38.9 million euros

image source: www.flickr.com

Real Madrid signed Real Sociedad midfielder and Spain U21 star Asier Illarramendi for a six-year contract for 38.9 million euros and will be presented to the press and fans on Saturday, Madrid paid the player’s buyout clause which is of 32 million euros plus 6.76 million euros of VAT.

Carlo Ancelotti, Real's new coach, was very excited about the signing of 23 year-old Illarramendi and had gave approval for the deal since his arrival.

Jokin Aperribay, Real Sociedad president, said in a statement: “Real Madrid have paid the buy-out clause plus VAT for Asier and he is leaving Real Sociedad this summer. We’re sad about it since he is going too early”.

Everton sign Barcelona youngster Gerard Deulofeu on loan for season

image source: outsideoftheboot.com

Liga champions Barcelona and Everton have reached an agreement over Gerard Deulofeu to go on one season loan to the Premiere League.

The 19 year-old Barca B star will join Roberto Martínez's Everton next season to gain experience in one of the top leagues in Europe.

He is considered one of the top rising stars for Barcelona where last season he scored 18 goals from 34 games and he played four matches with the first team.

"Gerard is a real diamond of Spanish football and a boy with incredible footballing talent and I am delighted that he has chosen to take the next step of his career with Everton.", said Roberto Martínez.

Barcelona reach deal with Atletico Madrid to sell David Villa

image source: cnn.com

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have reached an agreement in principle for the transfer of Spanish forward David Villa with a deal worth 5.1 million euros, the transfer will bring 2.1 millions this summer for the Catalan club, another 2 next year if Villa stays and one more million the year after.

Villa, 31 years old,  who joined Barcelona in 2010 played with the club 119 matches scoring 48 goals, ironically he could play against Barca as early as August, 28th in the Spanish super cup.

Tottenham confirm Paulinho signing

image source: www.topnews.in

Brazil's Confederations Cup midfield star Paulinho had signed a deal for Tottenham Hotspur for around 20 million euros after successfully completing his medicals at the English club.

The 24-year-old, capped by Brazil 17 times, enjoyed a successful career at Corinthians scoring 20 goals from 86 appearances, also he was named twice in the Brazilian league Team of the Year in 2011 and 2012.

"We are delighted to announce that we have reached agreement for the transfer of Paulinho from Corinthians after the Brazil international successfully completed his medical.", Spurs said in a statement at their official website

Murray downs Djokovic to win Wimbledon

image source: wikimedia.org

Andy Murray thrashed world number one Novak Djokovic in straight sets 6-4 7-5 6-4 to become the first British male player to win the all grass court competition since Fred Perry in 1936.

The top two seeds, as expected put on some brilliant tennis but Andy was the better player from the start till the end of the match.

With nine aces, 72% of points won on 1st serve, 36 winners and only 21 unforced errors compared to 40 for Djokovic, the win was inevitable for the Scot number one.

Novak saved three championship points as Murray was serving for the match at 5-4, he even had three break-back points in that game, but the Briton saved them all, bringing up later a fourth championship point which he finally took after forcing Nole to net a volley.

“Before the final game I was thinking where I was going to put my first serve, because often when you’re serving for such a match the first point will be crucial.", Andy said after the match.

"Then after winning the first three points it was the hardest game ever, the hardest few points I ever played. At the end of the match I didn't quite know what was going on. It’s been a blur from then to now. Winning Wimbledon is the top of tennis.”, he added.

Bartoli destroys Lisicki to claim Wimbledon title

image source: flickr.com

Marion Bartoli had won her maiden grand slam title at the age of 29 after crushing German Sabine Lisicki 6-1 6-4 at Wimbledon final.

Lisicki broke her opponent in the first game of the match but then she lost her composure to lose the first set 6-1 in half an hour.

At 5-1 up in the second set for the French 15th seeded, Lisicki had to save three championship points at her own serve  as she suddenly clicked into gear to break Bartoli and hold again, but an ace on her fourth match point at 5-4 gave Bartoli her first grand slam at her 47th attempt.

Murray to meet Djokovic in Sunday's final

Andy Murray will face Novak Djokovic in Sunday's final at Wimbledon after he beat Polish 24th seed Jerzy Janowicz 6-7 6-4 6-4 6-3 in an exciting match.

Djokovic survives Del Potro's test to reach Wimbledon final

image source: skysports.com

World number one Novak Djokovic won the longest semi-final match in Wimbledon history over Juan Martin Del Potro 7-5 4-6 7-6(2) 6-7(6) 6-3 after 4 hours and 43 minutes.

Nole had seen two match points come and go against the Argentinian in the fourth set tie break but he somehow collected himself in the fifth set and won the decider 6-3 at the first time of asking.

"It was one of the best matches that I've been part of, definitely one of the most exciting. It was so close, really, nothing could separate us. That's why he's a Grand Slam champion.", Djokovic said after the marathon match.

Djokovic will now face the winner of the match between No. 2 Andy Murray and No. 23 Jerzy Janowicz in the final on Sunday.

Lisicki to meet Bartoli in Wimbledon Final

image source: flickr.com

Germany's Sabine Lisicki beat fourth seed Agnieszka Radwanska 6-4 2-6 9-7 to reach her maiden grand slam final after a long match lasting two hours and 18 minutes.

Lisicki had to come back from 3-0 down in the final set to win it eventually 9-7, she will meet 15th seed Marion Bartoli in Saturday's final after the French player dismantled Flipkens 6-1 6-2  to reach her second Wimbledon final.

Murray came back from two sets down to beat Verdasco

Second seed Andy Murray came from two sets down to beat Fernando Verdasco 4-6 3-6 6-1 6-4 7-5 in an exciting quarter-final on Wimbledon's Centre Court, he will now face Polish Jerzy Janowicz in the semi-final who thrashed his countryman Lukasz Kubot 7-5 6-4 6-4 to put a Polish player in a Grand slam semis for the first time ever.

World number one will face Juan Martin Del Potro in the other half of the draw.

Wimbledon Men's Singles Quarterfinals Results:

• 2-Andy Murray (Britain) beat Fernando Verdasco (Spain) 4-6 3-6 6-1 6-4 7-5     
• 24-Jerzy Janowicz (Poland) beat Lukasz Kubot (Poland) 7-5 6-4 6-4              
• 1-Novak Djokovic (Serbia) beat 7-Tomas Berdych (Czech Republic) 7-6(5) 6-4 6-3 
• 8-Juan Martin Del Potro (Argentina) beat 4-David Ferrer (Spain) 6-2 6-4 7-6(5)

FIFA Confederations Cup in numbers

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Brazil deservedly won their fourth Confederations Cup and their third in succession after beating world champions Spain 3-0 in the final with a remarkable performance.

Here are see some key numbers and statistics from the tournament:

• Brazil had now played seven consecutive Confederations Cup tournaments
• 16  matches were played in the tournament
• 68 goals were scored
• Fernando Torres was the competition top scorer with five goals (due to having played fewer minutes over the tournament)
• Neymar was named the player of the Confed 2013
• Júlio César was awarded the best keeper trophy
• Four goals were scored by Neymar and the four of them are considered stunning goals.
• Jo came in as a substitute for Brazil against Japan and Mexico to score in the third minute of added time in both matches
• Brazil ended 26-game unbeaten streak for Spain
• Five finals in the Confederations Cup had seen Brazil part of it, they only lost once to Mexico 4–3 back in 1999.

New women’s champion will be crowned at Wimbledon

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

This year a new women’s champion will be added to the elite group who won Wimbledon after Kirsten Flipkens upset 2011 winner Petra Kvitova who was the last champion left in the draw.

Flipkens came from a set down to defeat Kvitova 4-6 6-3 6-4 to meet Bartoli in semi-final, as Sabine Lisicki who knocked out Serena William will meet the highest seeded player left Agnieszka Radwanska (4th seed).

Brazil hammer Spain to win Confederations Cup

Brazil were unstoppable against world champions Spain as they thrash them 3-0 to lift the Confederations Cup for the third time in succession and four times overall.

A brace from Fred and a stunning goal from Neymar help 'A Seleção' defend their title with a convincing performance on all aspects.

Result:
Brazil 3 (Fred 2, 48, Neymar 44)   Spain 0.

Italy beat Uruguay on penalties to win Confed third place

Italy won 3-2 on penalties over Uruguay after a 2-2 draw in 120 minutes to claim third place in the Confederations Cup.

Result:

After Extra Time: Italy 2 (Astori 24, Diamanti 73) Uruguay 2 (Cavani 58, 78)

Penalties: Italy 3 Uruguay 2.

Cavani agreed personal terms with Chelsea

image source: gembez.com

According to Mediaset, Napoli's striker Edinson Cavani agreed personal terms with Chelsea for a five-year contract worth 8.5 million euros per season.

The Uruguay international who is playing for his national team in the Confederations Cup in Brazil must now convince Napoli to lower his 63 million euros buy-out clause as Chelsea are unwilling to pay.

It is believed that both Real Madrid and Manchester City are no more interested in the La Celeste forward, as Los Blancos turned their attention towards Liverpool's Luis Suarez and the Citizens reported that they can't afford him.

source: football-italia.net

Wimbledon Day 5 results

Men’s Results:

• Andy Murray (Britain) beat Tommy Robredo (Spain) 6-2 6-4 7-5
• David Ferrer (Spain) beat Roberto Bautista (Spain) 6-3 3-6 7-6(4) 7-5
• Jerzy Janowicz (Poland) beat Nicolas Almagro (Spain) 7-6(6) 6-3 6-4
• Jurgen Melzer (Austria) beat Sergiy Stakhovsky (Ukraine) 6-2 2-6 7-5 6-3
• Adrian Mannarino (France) beat Dustin Brown (Germany) 6-4 6-2 7-5
• Tommy Haas (Germany) beat Jimmy Wang (Taiwan) 6-3 6-2 7-5
• Jeremy Chardy (France) beat Jan-Lennard Struff (Germany) 6-2 5-7 7-6(6) 7-6(4)
• Alexandr Dolgopolov (Ukraine) beat Santiago Giraldo (Colombia) 6-4 7-5 6-3
• Grega Zemlja (Slovenia) beat 29-Grigor Dimitrov (Bulgaria) 3-6 7-6(4) 3-6 6-4 11-9

Women’s Results:

• Kaia Kanepi (Estonia) beat Angelique Kerber (Germany) 3-6 7-6(6) 6-3
• Alison Riske (U.S.) beat Urszula Radwanska (Poland) 4-6 6-3 6-4
• Laura Robson (Britain) beat Mariana Duque (Colombia) 6-4 6-1
• Carla Suarez Navarro (Spain) beat Eugenie Bouchard (Canada) 7-5 6-2
• Kirsten Flipkens (Belgium) beat Vesna Dolonc (Serbia) 6-4 6-2
• Flavia Pennetta (Italy) beat Alize Cornet (France) 0-6 7-6(4) 6-2

Can Bayern Munich dominate Europe?

image source: ieeet.com

Bayern Munich were the best team in Europe this season they were unstoppable, winning every possible trophy. They can cover all areas of the pitch from defending to attacking and they are very fast in counter attacks thanks to Robben and Ribery, but can they keep up their current form for years ahead to dominate Europe? This is a major doubt.

The Bavarian's top players are aging, their fitness will not help them to be as fast as they are now and dominating the pitch will be as hard as ever. They are getting new blood like Mario Gotze, and with Pep Guardiola the team could maintain its power, but until we see how the players (old and new) will adapt to the new manager's formation and tactical plans, the supremacy of football in Europe is still not their property.

The Germans current key players' (Muller, Philipp Lahm, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Franck Ribéry, Arjen Robben and Manuel Neuer) age average is 28 and history has taught us that teams who dominated Europe for years had a much younger squad average age.


These are some of the greatest club sides of all time who were superiors to others:

Barcelona 2005-2011

• Honours: 3 Champions Leagues (2006, 2009, 2011), 4 La Liga titles (2006, 2009, 2010, 2011), 1 Spanish Cup (2009), 2 Club World Cups (2009, 2011), 2 UEFA Super Cups (2009, 2011), 4 Spanish Super Cups (2006, 2009, 2010, 2011)
• Key Players: Ronaldinho, Messi, Eto'o, Iniesta, Xavi, Puyol, Dani Alves, Deco
• Key players age average: 24.6

AC Milan 1988-94

• Honours: 3 European Cups (1989, 1990, 1994), 4 Serie A title (1988, 1992, 1993, 1994), 2 Intercontinental Cups (1989, 1990), 3 UEFA Super Cups (1989, 1990, 1994)
• Key Players: Ruud Gullit, Marco van Basten, Frank Rijkaard, Franco Baresi, Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta
• Key Players age average: 24.8

Liverpool 1977-1985

• Honours: 4 European Cups (1977, 1978, 1981, 1984), 7 Division One titles (1977, 1979, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985), 1 UEFA Super Cup (1977), 4 League Cups (1981, 1982, 1983, 1984)
• Key Players: Keegan, Dalglish, Hughes, Souness, Hansen, Rush
• Key Players age average: 25

Bayern Munich 1972-76

• Honours: 3 European Cups (1974, 1975, 1976), 2 German title (1973, 1974), 1 Intercontinental Cup (1976)
• Key Players: Beckenbauer, Muller, Honess, Rummenigge, Maier, Paul Breitner
• Key Players age average: 23.3

Ajax 1970-73

• Honours: 3 European Cup (1971, 1972, 1973), 3 Eredivisie (1970, 1972, 1973), 3 KNVB Cup (1970, 1971, 1972), 1 Intercontinental Cup (1972)
• Key Players: Cruyff, Neeskens, Haan, Krol
• Key Players age average: 21.7

Real Madrid 1955-1960

• Honours: 5 European Cups (1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960), 3 La Liga titles (1955, 1957, 1958), 1 Intercontinental Cup (1960)
• Key Players: Di Stefano, Puskas, Kopa, Gento, Santamaria
• Key players age average: 25.6

Djokovic, Del Potro and Serena into Wimbledon 3rd round

Men’s Results (2nd round): 
Novak Djokovic (Serbia) beat Bobby Reynolds (U.S.) 7-6(2) 6-3 6-1
Juan Martin Del Potro (Argentina) beat Jesse Levine (Canada) 6-2 7-6(7) 6-3
Tomas Berdych (Czech Republic) beat Daniel Brands (Germany) 7-6(6) 6-4 6-2
Richard Gasquet (France) beat Go Soeda (Japan) 6-0 6-3 6-7(5) 6-3

Kei Nishikori (Japan) beat Leonardo Mayer (Argentina) 7-6(5) 6-4 6-2

Igor Sijsling (Netherlands) beat Milos Raonic (Canada) 7-5 6-4 7-6(4)
Kevin Anderson (South Africa) beat Michal Przysiezny (Poland) 6-4 7-6(2) 6-4
Andreas Seppi (Italy) beat Michael Llodra (France) 7-5 (M Llodra retired)
Bernard Tomic (Australia) beat James Blake (U.S.) 6-3 6-4 7-5
Ivan Dodig (Croatia) beat Denis Kudla (U.S.) 6-1 7-6(4) 7-5
Feliciano Lopez (Spain) beat Paul-Henri Mathieu (France) 6-3 5-1 (PH Mathieu retired)


Women’s Results (2nd round): 
Serena Williams (US) beat Caroline Garcia (France) 6-3 6-2
Li Na (China) beat Simona Halep (Romania) 6-2 1-6 6-0
Roberta Vinci (Italy) beat Jana Cepelova (Slovakia) 6-1 4-6 9-7
Samantha Stosur (Australia) beat Olga Puchkova (Russia) 6-2 6-2
Dominika Cibulkova (Slovakia) beat Maria Teresa Torro (Spain) 6-0 6-1
Sabine Lisicki (Germany) beat Elena Vesnina (Russia) 6-3 6-1
Klara Zakopalova (Czech Republic) beat Annika Beck (Germany) 7-6(5) 6-3
Madison Keys (US) beat Mona Barthel (Germany) 6-4 6-2
Petra Martic (Croatia) beat Karolina Pliskova (Czech Republic) 7-6(7) 6-1
Marina Erakovic (New Zealand) beat Peng Shuai (China) 7-6(6) 6-2
Tsvetana Pironkova (Bulgaria) beat Barbora Zahlavova Strycova (Czech Republic) 7-5 6-3
Kimiko Date-Krumm (Japan) beat Alexandra Kadantu (Romania) 6-4 7-5

Spain won on penalties to reach Confederations Cup final

Spain beat Italy 7-6 in penalties shootout to book their place in the Confederations Cup final against hosts Brazil.

Real Madrid sign Isco on five-year deal

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Real Madrid have announced on their official website that they have signed Malaga and Spain U21 star Isco on a five-year deal.

The 2012 Golden Boy winner will undergo a medical on Wednesday 3 July and will be officially welcomed at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium.

"Real Madrid welcome one of Spanish football’s best players into its new project. Francisco Roman Alarcon, Isco (21/04/1992, Benalmadena, Malaga), will play at the Bernabeu for the next five seasons" a statement on the club's website reads.

source: http://www.realmadrid.com/cs/Satellite/en/Actualidad_Primer_Equipo_en/1330153497976/noticia/Noticia/Isco,_new_Real_Madrid_player.htm

Carlos Tevez joins Juventus

image source: www.breakingnews.ie

Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez has signed a three year contract with Serie A champions Juventus for a deal worth 18 million euros.

The Argentina international, 29, will wear the number 10 shirt that was occupied for years by Italian legend  Alessandro Del Piero.

El Apache who scored 74 goals for Manchester City in 148 appearances told Sky Sport Italia: "I'm really happy to be here at Juve, It's a really big satisfaction for me. I will tell the rest in the press conference - but Juventus wanted me more than Milan."

Brazil reach Confederations Cup final after win over Uruguay

image source: www.informationng.com

Brazil won 2-1 over Uruguay to reach Confederations Cup final where they will meet the winner from tomorrow's game between Spain and Italy.

A late header from Paulinho put Brazil in Confederations Cup final after a 2-1 win over Uruguay.

Diego Forlan missed from the spot after 14 minutes, Fred then put Brazil in-front four minutes before half-time, but Edinson Cavani equalised for La Celeste three minutes into the second half.

Paulinho scored the winner for Brazil in the minute 86 after Neymar cross from the corner kick to ensure that Brazil will be in the Confederations Cup final for the third time in succession.

Result:
Brazil 2 (Fred 41, Paulinho 86)   Uruguay 1 (Cavani 48).

Federer, Tsonga, Sharapova and Azarenka out of Wimbledon

image source: www.sportinglife.com

Defending champion and third seeded Roger Federer was stunned by world number 116 Ukrainian Sergiy Stakhovsky when he was beaten 7-6 6-7 5-7 7-6.

Stakhovsky who has never reached the third round at the All England Club was unstoppable at the serve with 17 aces and 83 out of 109 points won at 1st serve. The Ukrainian also won an incredible 61 from 96 Net points.

Federer's loss means that the 17-time Grand Slam champion will slip to number five for the first time since 2002 below Ferrer and Nadal and might see himself as 6th seed shall Tomas Berdych reach the final, it also means that his record of 36 consecutive quarterfinals in Grand Slam tournaments had come to an end.

In another upset, former Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova took an early exit after losing to qualifier Michelle Larcher de Brito 6-3 6-4.

Also on the same day, Victoria Azarenka, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Marin Cilic, Radek Stepanek, Steve Darcis, and John Isner were all forced to retire due to injuries.

Carlo Ancelotti in numbers

image source: www.click-sports.com

Real Madrid didn't give up on signing Carlo Ancelotti from PSG this summer, as he was finally announced yesterday the new boss of los merengues over the next three years. Their insistence on the Italian came from some outstanding numbers already in his pocket and also from his tactical way of playing that fits Madrid well.

Ancelotti likes to use the 4-3-3 formation with his teams, he used it with AC Milan (Rui Costa, Shevchenko and Inzaghi) , with Chelsea (Anelka, Drogba and Kalou), with PSG (Lavezzi, Ibrahimovic and Pastore) and that is what he will do when he manages Real Madrid with Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema and Ozil (unless they succeed to sign Gareth Bale, Ozil will be back as a midfielder).

His winning percentage has actually increased from one club to another. In 1995, with Reggiana it was  41.46% and it ended with PSG at 63.64%, as a summary here are Carletto's most important numbers:


Coaching Journey:

• 1992-1995: Italy's Assistant Coach
• 1995-1996: Reggiana (Serie B)
• 1996-1998: Parma (Serie A)
• 1999-2001: Juventus (Serie A)
• 2001-2009: AC Milan (Serie A)
• 2009-2011: Chelsea (Premier League)
• 2011-2013: Paris Saint-Germain (Ligue 1)
• 2013- : Real Madrid (La Liga)

Trophies:

Juventus:

• 2 Intertoto Cup: 1999, 2000

Milan:

• 1 Serie A: 2003–04
• 1 Coppa Italia: 2002–03
• 1 Supercoppa Italiana: 2004
• 2 UEFA Champions League: 2002–03, 2006–07
• 2 UEFA Super Cup: 2003, 2007
• 1 FIFA Club World Cup: 2007

Chelsea:

• 1 Premier League: 2009–10
• 1 FA Cup: 2009–10
• 1 FA Community Shield: 2009

Paris Saint-Germain:

• 1 Ligue 1: 2012–13

Individual Trophies:

• 1 UEFA Manager of the Year: 2002–03
• 2 Serie A Coach of the Year: 2001, 2004
• 2 Albo Panchina d'Oro: 2002–03, 2003–04
• 1 IFFHS World's Best Club Coach: 2007
• 1 Ligue 1 Manager of the Year: 2012–13
• 1 World Soccer Magazine Manager of the Year: 2003
• 4 Premier League Manager of the Month: November 2009, August 2010, March 2011, April 2011

Winning Percentage:

• Reggiana: 41.46%
• Parma: 48.28%
• Juventus: 55.26%
• AC Milan: 56.26%
• Chelsea: 61.47%
• Paris Saint-Germain: 63.64%

Statistics source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlo_Ancelotti

Ancelotti finally joins Real Madrid

image source: flickr.com

PSG boss Carlo Ancelotti has been appointed the new Manager at Real Madrid for a three-year deal, with formal French coach Laurent Blanc confirmed as his replacement at Parc des Princes.

The Itlaian is set to be presented at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium on Wednesday, June 26.

Real Madrid will pay PSG around four million euros for the one year left in Ancelotti's contract, according to the Spanish media.

Nadal sent packing in Wimbledon opener

image source: www.livetennisguide.com

Fifth seeded and two times Wimbledon champion Rafael Nadal was stunned by world number 135 Steve Darcis as he went down 7-6(4) 7-6(8) 6-3 in the first round.

This is the first time ever the Spaniard has exited a Grand Slam event in the first round, the loss also means that we will not have a mouth watering quarter final at Wimbledon between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

Earlier in the day Roger Federer advanced to Wimbledon's 2nd round as he dismantled Victor Hanescu of Romania 6-3, 6-2, 6-0 in a match lasting only 68 minutes.

Andy Murray advanced to round two at Wimbledon after a 6-4 6-3 6-2 win against German Benjamin Becker.

Spain, Uruguay are through to the Confederations Cup semis

Spain will play against Italy in the Confederations Cup semi-finals next Thursday, after they won 3-0 over Nigeria to top Group B, in a repeat of last year's UEFA Euro Final which Spain won 4-0.

Uruguay are also through as they finished second in Group B after hammering Tahiti 8-0 with a super hat-trick from Abel Hernandez.
La Celeste will meet the hosts Brazil in the first semi-final of the tournament on Wednesday night.
Luiz Suarez was on target twice to become Uruguay all-time leading scorer with 36 goals beating Diego Forlán's previous record of 34.

Results:
Group B
Spain 3 (Alba 3, 88, Torres 62) Nigeria 0
Uruguay 8 (Hernández 2’, 24’, 45’, 67’ (pen.), Pérez 27, Lodeiro 61’, Suarez 82’, 90), Tahiti 0

Confederations Cup - Brazil thrash Italy to top Group A

Neymar shines again with a stunning free-kick as Brazil put four past Italy to grab nine out of nine possible points in Group A.

Result:

Confederations Cup, Group A:
Italy 2 (Giaccherini 51, Chiellini 71) Brazil 4 (Dante 45+1, Neymar 55, Fred 67, 89)

More to follow. ..

Isco to join Real Madrid

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

According to Spanish reports, Malaga and Spain U21 star Isco will be joining Real Madrid this summer after the capital club and Malaga had reached an agreement over his signing.

AS newspaper suggested that the announcement of the five-year contract deal could come as early as next week, the transfer was sealed for a fee of 30 million euros with the possibility of Madrid loaning a player or two to Malaga as part of the deal. Isco was informed of the news by his father.

Zinedine Zidane, Real Madrid Director of Football, is believed to have insisted that president Florentino Perez makes the move to sign the Spanish young talent before any other club as Manchester City's new coach Manuel Pellegrini was very interested in signing his formal midfielder.

U20 World Cup - Deulofeu shines as Spain outclassed USA

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Barcelona youngster Gerard Deulofeu lead Spain to a crushing victory over USA in Turkey's U20 World Cup.

Five minutes after the kick-off Jesé scored the opener for Spain after Deulofeu's cross, The Barca star then scored a stunning curling shot from outside the box to give his team a 2-0 lead. 

Two minutes from half-time Jesé scored a third goal from close range to leave Spain 3-0 up before the break.

Gerard added a fourth goal in the minute 61 after dribbling the keeper and scoring from a tight angle, before USA pulls one back after 77 minutes.

Results:

Group A

France 3 (Kondogbia 65, Sanogo 68, Bahebeck 79) Ghana 1 (Boayake 85)

USA 1 (Gil 77) Spain 4 (Jese 5, 44, Deulofeu 42, 61)

Group B

Cuba 1 (Reyes 7) Korea Republic 2 (Kwon 51 Pen, Ryu 83) 

Nigeria 2 (Ajagun 57 67) Portugal 3 (Bruma 30, 69, Aladje 34)

Watch Highlights from Spain vs USA:

Wimbledon - Federer and Nadal could meet in Wimbledon quarters

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Wimbledon draws were revealed today as the grass-court Grand Slam will kick off on June 24, Seven-time champion Roger Federer could face Rafael Nadal in the quarterfinals which will be their earliest meeting in any Grand Slam.

Second seed Andy Murray will be also a potential semi-final opponent for either the Swiss Maestro or the Spainsh star.

Draws:

• Gentlemen's Singles
• Ladies' Singles

Centurion Forlan sinks Nigeria

Diego Forlan marked his 100th appearance for Uruguay with an unstoppable, first-time finish beating Vincent Enyeama at his near post. to see his side beat Nigeria 2-1 and put themselves in a strong position to qualify for the FIFA Confederations Cup semi-finals along with Spain.


La celeste took the lead by captain Diego Lugano from a cross by Forlan, before John Obi Mikel levelled with a fine goal from inside the box on his 50th Nigerian cap.


Result:
Uruguay 2 (Lugano 19, Forlan 51) Nigeria 1 (Mikel 37)

Miami Heat win second straight Finals crown

image source: bleacherreport.com

Miami Heat won their second straight NBA title with a 95-88 win over San Antonio Spurs in a decisive seventh game of the Finals.

King Lebron won his second successive NBA Finals MVP as he scored 37 points in leading the Miami Heat to the title against the Spurs on Thursday night.

James was 52 percent from the field (12 for 23) and hit 5 for 10 from 3-point range. He was a perfect 8 of 8 from the free-throw line. He also added 12 rebounds and four assists.


“Listen, for me, I can’t worry about what everybody says about me,” James said at the trophy presentation. “I’m LeBron James, from Akron, Ohio, from the inner-city. I’m not even supposed to be here. That’s enough.

“Every night I walk into the locker room I see a No. 6 with James on the back. I’m blessed. So what everyone says about me off the court, doesn’t matter. I don’t have any worries.”

Confederations Cup - Spain put 10 past Tahiti

Spain thrashed Tahiti by 10 goals in the Confederations Cup group stage to equal the record of New Zealand in 2004 as the heaviest ever defeat for minnows Tahiti.

Super hat-trick from Torres, hat-trick from David Villa,  a brace from Silva and a goal from Mata set a new record winning scoreline for this competition.

Result:
Spain 10 (Torres 5', 33', 57', 78', Villa 39', 49', 64', Silva 31', 89', Mata 66') Tahiti 0

Messi to face tax evasion charges in September

image source: www.guardian.co.uk/

Lionel Messi and his father Jorge have been charged with defrauding the Spanish tax authority of more than €4m (£3.4m) by loaning his image rights to third parties in tax havens such as Belize and Uruguay while formalising licence contracts in the United Kingdom and Switzerland.

The judge overseeing the complaint have told Europa Press that the court in Gava has ordered the player and his father to present themselves as defendants on Tuesday 17 September as defendants.

Source: http://as.com/diarioas/2013/06/20/english/1371732939_736940.html

Italy follows Brazil to Confederations Cup semis

Italy came from 2-0 down to win 4-3 over Japan in the most thrilling match of the tournament so far to reach the semis along with hosts Brazil.

The final match of the group between Brazil and Italy will decide who will top the group.

Japan were the better side almost all the game, and after scoring the equalizer (3 - 3), they wasted many chances to let Italy score the winning goal in the final moments.

Result:
Italy 4 (De Rossi 41, Uchida 50 og, Balotelli 52 pen, Giovinco 86) Japan 3 (Honda 21 pen, Kagawa 33, Okazaki 69)

More to follow...

Neymar stunner helps Brazil reach Confed semis

image source: www.informationng.com

Neymar scored a sensational Volley from just inside the box in the ninth minute after a poor clearance by the opposition defense as Brazil beat Mexico to reach Confederations Cup semi final.

Brazilian number 10 produced another incredible performance in the tournament and he was very annoying for the Mexican defenders the whole time, his efforts were rewarded early in the match when Dani Alves cross was headed away poorly by a defender but the ball falls out of the air and onto Neymar left foot, who lashes home a wonderful strike straight into the net.

The second half was mainly played in Mexico's half of the pitch as the new Barcelona forward outplayed the defenders with some amazing moves, where he also assisted Jô in the injury time after dribbling 2 players on the left of the box and squares for Jô, who taps into an empty net.

Result:
Group A
Brazil 2 (Neymar 9, Jô 90+3); Mexico 0.

Squads:
Brazil: Julio Cesar, Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, David Luiz, Marcelo; Luiz Gustavo, Paulinho, Oscar; Hulk, Neymar, Fred.
Subs: min 62 Oscar out Hernanes in, min 78 Hulk out Lucas Moura in, min 82 Fred out Jô in.

Mexico: Corona; Rodriguez, Salcido, Moreno, Torres, Mier, Flores, Torrado, Guardado, Giovani, Hernandez.
Subs: min 58 G. Flores out H. Herrera in, min 70 J. Torres out P. Barrera in.

Which teams are already in Brazil 2014?

image source: fifa.com

World Cup Qualification Policy:

The allocation of places for the 2014 Fifa World Cup Brazil was decided on March 3rd 2011, with the distribution of the 31 places (Brazil automatically qualifies for the tournament as host) which wasn't changed from that for the 2010 World Cup.
The tournament will be held between June 12 and July 13.

The distribution by confederation for the 2014 World Cup will be:

• AFC: (43 teams competing for 4 or 5 berths, playoff to determine exact number) 4 certain berths with 5th to play CONMEBOL's 5th place team in a home-and-away series to determine who will qualify.
• CAF: (52 teams competing for 5 berths)
• CONCACAF: (35 teams competing for 3 or 4 berths, with playoff to determine exact number) 3 certain berths with 4th to play OFC's winner in a home and away series to determine who will qualify for the finals.
• CONMEBOL: (9 teams competing for 4 or 5 berths, playoff to determine exact number) 4 certain berths with 5th to play AFC's 5th place team in a home-and-away series to determine who will qualify. In addition, Brazil automatically qualifies for the finals as host.
• OFC: (11 teams competing for 0 or 1 berth, playoff to determine exact number) Winner plays CONCACAF's 4th place team in a home and away series.
• UEFA: (53 teams competing for 13 berths.

Qualified Teams as of June 18:

1. Brazil: hosts
2. Japan: AFC Fourth Round Group B Winners
3. Australia: AFC Fourth Round Group B Runners-up
4. Iran: AFC Fourth Round Group A Winners
5. South Korea: AFC Fourth Round Group A Runners-up

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2014_FIFA_World_Cup_qualification

Thiago treble inspires Spain retain Under-21 crown

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Spain won their fourth UEFA European Under-21 Championship title and second in a row Thiago Alcantara scored a first-half hat-trick.
Result: Italy Under-21 2 (Immobile 10, Borini 80) Spain Under-21 4 (Thiago 6, 31, 38 pen, Isco 66 pen)

The final, which was between the two teams who featured in last year Euro 2012, had the same output as Spain scored four past Italy while the Azzurri managed to score only twice, Barcelona Midfielder Alcantara was on fire as he scored a hat-trick in the range of 32 minutes.

Spain and Italy had met twice in the competition final before– in 1986 and 1996 – where each team took the trophy home once winning it on penalties, Spain are now the second most winning nation with four titles one short from Italy.

Previous Winners:

• Italy: 5 (1992, 1994, 1996, 2000, 2004)
• Spain: 4 (1986, 1998, 2011, 2013)
• England: 2 (1982, 1984)
• Soviet Union: 2 (1980, 1990)
• Netherlands: 2 (2006, 2007)
• Yugoslavia: 1 (1978)
• France: 1 (1988)
• Czech Republic: 1 (2002)
• Germany: 1 (2009)

Latest summer transfer news

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Check out the latest transfer news/rumors as European bug guns target key signings in the summer transfer window:

• After Ronaldo's famous tweet "All the news about my renewal with Real Madrid are false.", French wealthy clubs Monaco and PSG are set to make world record £85m(100 million euros) bid for Real Madrid's star, while Manchester United are relying on Ferguson to sign the Portuguese.
• Carlo Ancelotti will be announced as Real Madrid's new Boss in a couple of days, as he hopes that PSG and Real will sign the documents which free him from his duties with the French champions on Monday.
• Los Blancos are weighing up a world-record £85 million(100 million euros) bid for Tottenham's Gareth Bale, but they have now a competitor for the Welsh superstar as Manchester United are putting him as 'Plan b' in case negotiations with Ronaldo fail.
• Barçelona are ready to pay some money on centre-backs as they are hoping to sign one of the two Brazilians Thiago Silva or David Luiz.
• Liverpool striker Luiz Suarez is said to be the preferred choice to replace Higuaín in the Madrid attack, as the Argentinian is probably leaving the Bernabeu castle.
• According to his mother, Napoli's star striker Edinson Cavani is in talks with Real Madrid and Manchester City
• Spanish youngster and Malaga's Attacking midfielder Isco will decide his future after European Under-21 Championship as he is believed to have caught the attention of Real Madrid and Manchester City.
• Barcelona's Cesc Fabregas and David Villa and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney are all on Arsene Wenger's radar, as the three stars are set to leave their clubs this summer.

Spain, Italy win first matches at Confederations Cup

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

The world and European champions raced into a two-goal lead after just 32 minutes as they monopolized possession in the opening minutes, however, they couldn't extend their lead in the second half although they played some impressive football.

Luis Suarez scored an incredible free-kick two minutes from full-time, but it was too little too late for La celeste.

Italy won with the same result over Mexico in a much more competitive game.
Andrea Pirlo, who was celebrating his 100th Azzurri appearance scored a stunning free-kick after 27 minutes, but Manchester United striker Chicharito scored the equaliser from the penalty spot seven minutes later.

Mario Balotelli saved the day for Italy 12 minutes from full-time with a brilliant finish to outmuscle Rodriguez from deep inside the area.


Results:

Group A
Mexico 1-2 Italy (Hernandez 34 |  Pirlo 27’, Balotelli 78’)
Group B
Spain 2-1 Uruguay (Pedro 20’, Soldado 32 |  Suarez ‘88’)