SPORTS

Liverpool Beat Manchester City To Extend Lead To 11 Points

Published

1 month ago

December 2, 2024

Liverpool beat Manchester City to extend lead | fab.ng

Liverpool widened their lead in the Premier League to an impressive 11 points over defending champions Manchester City with a commanding 2-0 victory at Anfield.

This result extended City’s winless streak to seven matches across all competitions, marking the worst run of Pep Guardiola’s managerial career.

Guardiola responded to City’s recent struggles by benching regular goalkeeper Ederson in favour of Stefan Ortega.

However, Ortega faced relentless pressure from the start as Liverpool launched a series of aggressive attacks.

Dominik Szoboszlai tested the goalkeeper twice early on and then set up Virgil van Dijk, whose powerful header struck the post.

The opening goal seemed inevitable, and Anfield didn’t have to wait long for a moment of brilliance from Mohamed Salah.

The Egyptian delivered a pinpoint cross that found Cody Gakpo at the back post, who bundled the ball into the net, sending the Kop into raptures.

A simple finish 👍

Cody Gakpo with the easiest of tasks to tap home to make it 1-0 🔴#LIVMCI pic.twitter.com/u7Wu1igHPR

— Premier League (@premierleague) December 1, 2024

City’s strategy of playing out from the back continued to cause them problems even after conceding. Van Dijk missed another opportunity with a header, and Gakpo fired over the bar as Liverpool maintained control.

Although City managed to reduce the flow of Liverpool’s attacks, they struggled to create any meaningful chances.

Their first shot didn’t arrive until the 39th minute when Rico Lewis’s tame effort missed the target. This encapsulated a miserable first half for the champions.

The statistics told the story…

It was the longest City had gone without a shot in a Premier League match since April 2010. Although they looked slightly more threatening after the break, Liverpool remained dominant.

Gakpo had another shot blocked by Matheus Nunes, and Van Dijk headed another chance over the bar.

Salah then intercepted a loose pass from Bernardo Silva, racing through on goal only to lift his shot over the bar, missing a golden opportunity to double Liverpool’s lead.

Despite their dominance, Liverpool still needed a second goal to seal the win against Manchester City. That decisive moment came 12 minutes from time. Ruben Dias lost possession, allowing Luis Diaz to sprint through on goal.

👑 pic.twitter.com/JWGjDwcHPG

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) December 1, 2024

Ortega brought Diaz down, conceding a penalty. Salah confidently stepped up and converted the spot-kick, redeeming himself after a midweek miss against Real Madrid. This goal marked his 13th direct contribution in his last 11 starts against City.

With this victory, Arne Slot’s Liverpool side solidified their dominance at Anfield this season, having already beaten the champions of England, Spain, and Germany.

They now sit nine points clear at the top of the Premier League table, leaving Arsenal trailing behind.

Meanwhile, Manchester City finds itself in unfamiliar territory. This defeat marks their fourth consecutive league loss, a streak they haven’t endured since August 2008.

The defending champions now sit outside the top four, facing mounting pressure and searching for answers as their title defence falters.

Liverpool’s performance underscored their credentials as genuine title contenders, with clinical finishing, defensive solidity, and moments of individual brilliance.

In contrast, City must regroup quickly to halt their downward spiral and reignite their season.

Check out more sports news here.

Related Topics:Football Liverpool Manchester City sports news

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SPORTS

Referees To Explain VAR Decisions To Crowd In EFL Cup Semi-Finals Trial

Published

1 week ago

December 30, 2024

Reporter

Referees to explain VAR decisions in League Cup trial | fab.ng

The English Football League (EFL) announced on Monday that referees will explain Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decisions to the crowd during a trial period.

This trial will be implemented in the upcoming League Cup semi-final matches.

During the trial, referees will utilise the stadium’s public address system to communicate the final decision to the spectators.

This communication will occur after reviewing the situation on the VAR pitchside monitor. It could also be after making decisions on matters such as accidental handball by a goal scorer or offside judgments.

“The new pilot forms part of PGMOL’s broader commitment to transparency and embracing technological advancements for the benefit of Match Officials and fans,” the EFL said in a statement.

BREAKING: VAR will be in place for this season’s Carabao Cup semi-finals which will also see a trial of in-stadium decision announcements 🚨 pic.twitter.com/N4rjTU7xqL

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) December 30, 2024

In-stadium VAR announcements have already been successfully implemented in trial runs at prestigious FIFA tournaments. This includes the Women’s World Cup last year and the 2023 Club World Cup.

It is important to note that VAR is exclusively utilised in the League Cup at the semi-final stage. This trial will encompass both legs of the highly anticipated matches between Arsenal and Newcastle United. Also, Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool will play as well.

The first-leg matches will take place at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium on January 7th and at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on the following day.

Check out more sports updates here.

SPORTS

Amad Diallo Determined To “Make History” With Struggling Manchester United

Published

1 week ago

December 28, 2024

Reporter

Amad Diallo to 'make history' with Manchester United | fab.ng

Amad Diallo, 22, has boldly declared his intention to “make history” with Manchester United, despite the club’s ongoing struggles in the Premier League.

Under new manager Ruben Amorim, who replaced the sacked Erik ten Hag after arriving from Sporting Lisbon, United have faced a tough start.

The team has lost five of Amorim’s 10 matches across all competitions. This includes disappointing defeats to Wolves, Bournemouth, and Tottenham in their last three outings.

United are under mounting pressure as they prepare to face Newcastle at Old Trafford on Monday. Currently, they’re sitting in 14th place in the Premier League and only eight points above the relegation zone.

Looking ahead to our final game of 2024 👊#MUFC || #PL

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 27, 2024

Despite these challenges, Diallo has emerged as a rare bright spot for the club.

The Ivory Coast forward recently secured a dramatic late winner in the Manchester derby against City. He has also delivered an impressive two goals and six assists in the league this season.

With his sights set on helping Manchester United rise back to the top, Diallo has joined forces with the club’s other young talents to lead the way forward.

“We are part of the project, we have so many young players for this club, especially Garna (Alejandro Garnacho), Kobbie (Mainoo), Joshua (Zirkzee), Rasmus (Hojlund), me, we are young players who want to make history for this club,” Diallo told MUTV.

“We want to do our best every game. Sometimes it cannot work, but you can see in the pitch we are very focused to do our best for this club, because we want to bring back this club to the level it was before.

“So, for the young lads, we just have to keep going, work hard and the most important thing is to listen to the old men, the old players, learn every day.

“We have now a new manager, he likes to work with young players, and he brings a new system, so we just have to follow it and try to do our best every game.”

Back at home for the final time in 2024 🏠#MUFC || #PL pic.twitter.com/pMXAG2A10p

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 28, 2024

Amad Diallo has showcased his versatility during the early stages of Ruben Amorim’s tenure.

They excelled in both the right wing-back position and more advanced attacking roles.

“In football this can happen,” he added. “Don’t be focused in only one position. Sometimes you can play as a defender, sometimes as a striker. Wherever the manager puts me I’m ready to fight for the team.

“I just want to play, right wing, number 10, anywhere. I say to the manager if you need me as a ‘keeper I’m ready to do my best, I will fight for the team and for my team-mates; I want to make history for this club.”

Check out more sports news here.

SPORTS

Ex-Arsenal Star Ahmed Mohammed On Katsina Academy & Partnership With Mbappe’s AS Bondy

Published

1 week ago

December 28, 2024

Reporter

Ex-Arsenal star Ahmed Mohammed on Katsina Academy... | fab.ng

Ahmed Mohammed, a former Arsenal Academy and West Ham United youth prodigy, has passionately shared the inspiration behind founding the fast-growing Katsina Football Academy.

During an in-depth interview with Flashscore at their London office, he also detailed the academy’s ambitious vision.

Though established less than 13 months ago, Katsina Football Academy has already emerged as one of Africa’s most prominent and internationally recognised football nurseries.

The academy has rapidly gained a reputation for nurturing talent. Several of its players now feature in Nigerian youth teams.

Located in northern Nigeria, Katsina Football Academy has also become a prime destination for European clubs eager to scout the exceptional talent within its ranks.

Meet the quintessential Ahmed Mohammed, the London-based former youth star of Arsenal and West Ham United, who also had stints at Dagenham & Redbridge FC. Today, he’s using football as a tool for social change and development through his Katsina Football Academy, with some of his… pic.twitter.com/RJomNIYMKf

— Shina Oludare 🇳🇬 (@sportingshina) December 27, 2024

Ahmed Mohammed explained that his decision to create the academy stemmed from a personal vision to nurture grassroots talent in Africa, even with numerous other academies across the continent.

“Growing up in London, football was more than a game – it was a lifeline. It provided purpose and a positive outlet during a time when negative influences surrounded me, “ said Mohammed.

“Football instilled discipline, teamwork, and focus, keeping me grounded and guiding me away from trouble. It helped me build resilience, determination, and a vision for a better future, and I wanted to offer those same opportunities to others.

“The inspiration for Katsina Football Academy came from a desire to use football to transform lives. During a visit to Katsina, I saw untapped potential in young people – raw talent and ambition, but also a lack of structure.

“My vision was to create a platform where youth could develop athletic skills, life skills, education, and direction. Football teaches discipline, leadership, and teamwork – values for life.

“The academy offers a safe space to dream big, stay away from negative influences, and develop self-worth, empowering youth to succeed on and off the field.”

What Makes Katsina Stand Out

Like many other young football enthusiasts in London, Mohammed aspired to greatness in the sport. He showcased his talent at the youth level, representing Arsenal, West Ham United, and Dagenham & Redbridge.

Unfortunately, injuries and personal challenges cut his football journey short, forcing him to abandon his dream.

Katsina Football Academy coaches, alongside Belgium scouts, participated in the 5th Edition of the Global Football Scouting Tournament held in Lagos, in partnership with KVC Westerlo Belgium. pic.twitter.com/sH9KwfqsrE

— KATSINA FOOTBALL ACADEMY (@ktf_academy) December 22, 2024

Determined to turn his setbacks into an opportunity, Mohammed drew from the lessons of his brief career and his keen observations of African football.

This combination of experience and insight allowed Ahmed Mohammed to create something truly unique with Katsina Football Academy.

He continued,

“Katsina Football Academy stands out for its holistic approach to player development, focusing on both athletic and personal growth.

“As Chairman, I bring experience from playing for top UK academies like Arsenal, West Ham, and Dagenham & Redbridge, and working with Tottenham Hotspur to transform young lives.

“The academy goes beyond football by offering life-skills training, mentorship, and educational support. We also provide pathways for players to showcase their talents internationally and ensure inclusivity by making the academy accessible to underprivileged youth.

“Our qualified coaching staff, modern facilities, and emphasis on character building create a strong foundation for success both on and off the field.

“Additionally, we integrate education with football through structured schedules, partnerships with schools, on-site programs, and vocational training, empowering players for future careers beyond football. Our mission is to develop well-rounded individuals ready to thrive in all aspects of life.”

Collaboration with Mbappe’s Academy

Katsina Football Academy achieved a major milestone by forming a football development partnership with AS Bondy. This is the French club famous for discovering Real Madrid and French star Kylian Mbappe.

In October 2024, the partnership was formalised in Paris, opening doors for young, talented footballers from Katsina State.

Alhamdulillah its a done deal🙏🏿🎉
Partnership secured with a club in France with ⁦@ktf_academy⁩.
Putting Katsina on the 🌎
Thank you for believing in me My Excellency ⁦@dikko_radda⁩
⁦@fatimatukr⁩ ⁦@Miqdad_Jnr⁩ ⁦@BashirAhmaad⁩ ⁦@gambomanzo⁩ pic.twitter.com/KTtTPGepCk

— Ahmed Mohammed (@youvsyoultd) October 24, 2024

This collaboration allows these players to travel to France. There, they showcase their skills and pursue opportunities to secure professional contracts with European clubs.

Mohammed added,

“The partnership with Bondy Academy was driven by a shared vision to empower young football talents and offer global opportunities.

“Bondy’s proven track record in developing players aligns with Katsina Football Academy’s mission. This collaboration aims to provide exposure to international scouts, emphasise holistic development, and offer world-class coaching.

“Bondy’s success with players like Kylian Mbappe inspired Katsina to follow suit, creating a pathway for Nigerian talent. The partnership also strengthens our position as a key hub for football development in Africa, ensuring grassroots talent has the resources to succeed.

“Ultimately, this agreement marks a milestone in building a brighter future for young players, offering both football and life opportunities.”

Katsina Football Academy was launched in September 2023. It has already produced exceptional talents like Umar Yusuf, Ahmad Nasir, and Usman Abdullahi.

The academy actively strives to establish itself as a premier institution for football development and youth empowerment in Nigeria and beyond.

Check out more sports news here.