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10-man Real Madrid draws at Osasuna after Bellingham red card for cursing at the ref

10-man Real Madrid draws at Osasuna after Bellingham red card for cursing at the ref

Joseph Wilson, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 15 - 3:23 p.m.  |  Save Story

Jude Bellingham has been sent off for cursing the referee and 10-man Real Madrid has failed to hold its lead against Osasuna in a 1-1 draw in La Liga. Kylian Mbappé put Madrid ahead in the 15th minute. Bellingham was red-carded using an expletive while protesting the refereeing five minutes before halftime. Ante Budimir converted the 58th-minute equalizer after a penalty by Eduardo Camavinga. The draw in Pamplona puts Madrid's league lead in jeopardy. Next up for Madrid is a home game against Manchester City on Wednesday when it will try to make good on its 3-2 win in their first meeting of the Champions League knockout rounds playoff.
New signing Gouiri inspires Marseille's big win but PSG stays 10 points clear

New signing Gouiri inspires Marseille's big win but PSG stays 10 points clear

Jerome Pugmire, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 15 - 3:11 p.m.  |  Save Story

Amine Gouiri is proving to be an inspired signing by Marseille. The livewire forward has scored two superb goals and played a part in the other three as second-placed Marseille routed Saint-Etienne 5-1 in Ligue 1. Gouiri also has three assists in the three games he's played since joining from Rennes. The win was spectacular but changed nothing at the top with unbeaten Paris Saint-Germain maintaining its 10-point lead with a 1-0 win at Toulouse thanks to a Fabián Ruiz goal. Marseille's other goals came from Mason Greenwood, Amir Murillo and Adrien Rabiot. Elsewhere, Mika Biereth grabbed another hat trick as third-placed Monaco crushed Nantes 7-1.
Atalanta's hopes of silverware fading after more disappointment and Napoli held again

Atalanta's hopes of silverware fading after more disappointment and Napoli held again

Daniella Matar, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 15 - 3:03 p.m.  |  Save Story

Atalanta is losing hope of silverware match by match. It followed up Wednesday's controversial defeat at Club Brugge in the Champions League with a goalless draw at home to relegation-threatened Cagliari in Serie A. Third-placed Atalanta remains five points behind Napoli after the league leader was held to a third straight draw, this time 2-2 at fourth-placed Lazio. That means Inter Milan can move top of Serie A with a win at bitter rival Juventus on Sunday. Atalanta has won just one of its past six matches in all competitions and hosts Brugge on Tuesday in the return leg of the knockout playoff round. Santiago Giménez scored again as AC Milan beat Hellas Verona 1-0.
Real Madrid's Bellingham shown red card after using English expletive to protest referee

Real Madrid's Bellingham shown red card after using English expletive to protest referee

The Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 15 - 2:46 p.m.  |  Save Story

Jude Bellingham has been sent off with a direct red card in Real Madrid's 1-1 draw at Osasuna after he used explicit language while protesting the refereeing. Referee José Luis Munuera marched the England midfielder in the 40th minute of Saturday's Spanish league game. Coach Carlo Ancelotti defended his player and claimed that Munuera had made a translation error of Bellingham's use of an English expletive."Bellingham didn't do anything that deserved a sending off," Ancelotti said. "He said '(expletive) off,' not '(expletive) you. I don't think that was meant to be offensive." Bellingham said that his use of the expletive was not meant to target the referee.
American forward Daryl Dike returns from second torn Achilles, plays first match in over a year

American forward Daryl Dike returns from second torn Achilles, plays first match in over a year

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 15 - 2:33 p.m.  |  Save Story

American forward Daryl Dike returned from his second torn Achilles tendon, playing his first match in just over a year when he entered for West Bromwich Albion in a 1-1 draw at Millwall in England's second-tier League Championship. Dike tore his left Achilles against Ipswich on Feb. 10, 2024, just five games after returning from a ruptured right Achilles tendon. Dike ruptured right Achilles tendon against Stoke on April 15, 2023, and returned on Jan. 7, 2024, when he played the first half in an FA Cup match against Aldershot.
Leverkusen's Alonso admits 'mixed feelings' after a tactical clinic with no goals against Bayern

Leverkusen's Alonso admits 'mixed feelings' after a tactical clinic with no goals against Bayern

James Ellingworth, Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 15 - 2:20 p.m.  |  Save Story

Xabi Alonso sank to his knees, leaned back and put both hands over his face when his Bayer Leverkusen side failed to score again. Leverkusen had already hit the bar twice when Florian Wirtz skewed a shot just wide of the post in added time against Bayern Munich on Saturday, prompting his coach's display of frustration. Alonso admits even he was surprised how well his team's tactics worked against a Bayern team which was rendered almost toothless. The only problem was, Leverkusen didn't win and its title defense now looks a faint hope.
Bundesliga title beckons for Bayern after holding defending champ Leverkusen scoreless

Bundesliga title beckons for Bayern after holding defending champ Leverkusen scoreless

CiarÁn Fahey, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 15 - 2:04 p.m.  |  Save Story

Bayer Leverkusen has done everything but score as Bayern Munich held on for a 0-0 draw that keeps it eight points clear at the top of the Bundesliga. Bayern was pegged back for the whole game but Leverkusen failed to score for the second consecutive game. Center forwards Patrik Schick and Victor Boniface watched from the substitutes' bench on Saturday. Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz went agonizingly close to winning in stoppage time when he shot just wide of the left post after Manuel Neuer saved Amine Adli's effort. Twelve rounds remain.
Merino relieves Arsenal's attacking woes and Marmoush scores hat trick for Man City

Merino relieves Arsenal's attacking woes and Marmoush scores hat trick for Man City

Mattias KarÉn, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 15 - 12:38 p.m.  |  Save Story

Mikel Merino solved Arsenal's attacking problems with two late goals off the bench to secure a 2-0 win at relegation-threatened Leicester in the Premier League. With Arsenal's makeshift front three struggling to create chances, Merino went on in the 69th minute and quickly got on the end of two good crosses to decide the game. Manchester City has found a new scoring threat, too. January signing Omar Marmoush netted a 14-minute hat trick in the first half of a 4-0 win over Newcastle that lifted Pep Guardiola's team into fourth place. They are only three points behind Nottingham Forest, which lost at Fulham 2-1.
Man United forward Amad Diallo says he will be 'out for some time' with ankle injury

Man United forward Amad Diallo says he will be 'out for some time' with ankle injury

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 15 - 12:25 p.m.  |  Save Story

Manchester United forward Amad Diallo has added to the club's long injury list after saying he is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines with ankle ligament damage. British media reported on Saturday that Diallo could miss the rest of the season. The player posted on social media confirming that "I will be out for some time with an injury." The 22-year-old winger has been one of the few bright spots for United this season, scoring six goals in his last 14 appearances in all competitions.
Hat-trick scorer Marmoush and Gonzalez make Man City look like old self again

Hat-trick scorer Marmoush and Gonzalez make Man City look like old self again

Mattias KarÉn, Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 15 - 11:59 a.m.  |  Save Story

Manchester City's new signings have Pep Guardiola's team looking like its old self again. Omar Marmoush netted a first-half hat trick in a 4-0 win over Newcastle in the Premier League and Nico Gonzalez provided a level of midfield control that City has lacked since Ballon d'Or winner Rodri went down with a season-ending knee injury. It was the kind of dominant performance that was a mainstay of Guardiola's side as it won four straight league titles before a string of uncharacteristic losses in the autumn. Guardiola says "we remembered what we were, that we have not been this season."
Haaland appears to hurt knee late in Man City's win over Newcastle

Haaland appears to hurt knee late in Man City's win over Newcastle

The Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 15 - 11:19 a.m.  |  Save Story

Star striker Erling Haaland has been substituted after appearing to hurt his knee late in Manchester City's 4-0 win over Newcastle in the Premier League. Haaland sat down clutching his right knee but was able to walk off the field unassisted in the 87th minute on Saturday. He took a seat on the team bench. He did not appear to receive any immediate medical attention and seemed unaffected when he shook hands with players on the field after the game. Still, the incident raised concerns about the Norway striker's availability for City's Champions League game against Real Madrid on Wednesday. City trails 3-2 from the first leg of the playoff round, with the winner advancing to the round of 16.
Burnley player says he received 'disgusting' racial abuse from opponent

Burnley player says he received 'disgusting' racial abuse from opponent

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 15 - 10:58 a.m.  |  Save Story

A player for English second-division team Burnley says he received "disgusting" racial abuse from an opponent during a league game. Tunisia international Hannibal Mejbri was involved in a heated exchange with Preston's Milutin Osmajic, a Montenegro native, on Saturday. Mejbri reacted with visible dismay before reporting the incident to referee Andrew Kitchen. After the game ended 0-0, Mejbri wrote on X that "nobody should have to experience this disgusting abuse on the pitch." Preston issued a statement saying Osmajic "strongly refuted the claims of a comment made towards Hannibal Mejbri in a post-match meeting with today's match officials."
Seven players in Mexican soccer suspended for a combined 57 years for fixing matches

Seven players in Mexican soccer suspended for a combined 57 years for fixing matches

Carlos Rodriguez, Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 15 - 10:31 a.m.  |  Save Story

Seven players from two clubs in Mexico's third division have been suspended for a combined 57 years for involvement in sports betting and fixing matches. Six of them played for Real Apodaca and the other for Correcaminos UAT. The Mexican Football Association disciplinary commission and the clubs did not revealed the names of the players and did not say which matches were manipulated. According to local media, the Real Apodaca players lost matches on purpose or by two goals or more.
Man City's Ederson sets assist record for goalkeepers in Premier League

Man City's Ederson sets assist record for goalkeepers in Premier League

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 15 - 8:47 a.m.  |  Save Story

Manchester City's Ederson has set a Premier League record for goalkeepers by providing his sixth assist in the competition. Ederson's long ball up the pitch set in the 19th minute fell to Omar Marmoush, who calmly lobbed Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka for the opening goal at the Etihad Stadium. Ederson surpassed former Leeds, Tottenham and Blackburn goalkeeper Paul Robinson, who delivered five assists in the Premier League. It was Ederson's third assist of this season, which according to stats provider Opta is also a Premier League record. Marmoush completed a first-half hat trick for City to put the hosts 3-0 up by the 33rd minute.
Leipzig player misses Bundesliga game after being late for bus

Leipzig player misses Bundesliga game after being late for bus

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 15 - 6:05 a.m.  |  Save Story

Leipzig defender El Chadaille Bitshiabu missed his team's Bundesliga match at Augsburg because he was late for the bus. Leipzig coach Marco Rose told broadcaster DAZN before Friday's 0-0 draw that Bitshiabu was supposed to be in the squad. But the 19-year-old defender failed to show up in time for the team's bus to the airport that morning. Bitshiabu has made 11 league appearances this season for Leipzig. He had good chances of playing in Augsburg with captain Willi Orban suspended for his red card against St. Pauli the week before, and Benjamin Henrichs, Xaver Schlager, Assan Ouedraogo and Antonio Nusa all out with injuries.
Super-sub Mayoral gives Getafe win over Girona in La Liga surprise

Super-sub Mayoral gives Getafe win over Girona in La Liga surprise

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 4:07 p.m.  |  Save Story

Substitute Borja Mayoral has scored within seconds of taking the field to give Getafe a 2-1 win away at Girona in La Liga. Poor defending allowed Getafe to take the lead in the third minute through Christantus Uche on Friday. Venezuelan Yangel Herrera equalized for Girona early in the second half. He was sent off in the 73rd minute but only after Mayoral put Getafe back in the lead with a poacher's goal. The win lifts Getafe three places into 11th. Girona remains eighth.
Magic Mitoma and Minteh double give Brighton 3-0 win over lackluster Chelsea

Magic Mitoma and Minteh double give Brighton 3-0 win over lackluster Chelsea

The Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 14 - 3:54 p.m.  |  Save Story

Yankuba Minteh has scored twice and Kaoru Mitoma got a superb opener as Brighton demolished Chelsea 3-0 in the Premier League. Japanese striker Mitoma produced a moment of magic to bring down a long ball and fire home the opener after 27 minutes. He then did the hard work in the buildup to Minteh's second 11 minutes later. Minteh put the seal on the victory with a third early in the second half. Chelsea produced little in response and remains in fourth place. Brighton moves up two places into eighth.
Fighting Brest twice comes from behind to salvage draw with Auxerre in Ligue 1

Fighting Brest twice comes from behind to salvage draw with Auxerre in Ligue 1

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 3:38 p.m.  |  Save Story

Brest has come from behind to draw with Auxerre 2-2 in an entertaining match in Ligue 1. Auxerre is winless since November but it took the lead twice through Gaetan Perrin on Friday. Abdoulaye Ndiaye and Ludovic Ajorque fought back to give Brest a deserved share of the points. It is in eighth place on the table. Auxerre has gone 11 games without a win and remains 11th.
Last-minute own goal gives Bologna 3-2 win over Torino in Serie A thriller

Last-minute own goal gives Bologna 3-2 win over Torino in Serie A thriller

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 3:11 p.m.  |  Save Story

Cristiano Biraghi has scored a last-minute own goal on his first appearance for Torino and given Bologna a 3-2 win in Serie A. A double from Dan Ndoye looked like giving Torino a share of the points before Biraghi's unfortunate late decider on Friday. Ndoye scored in the 20th and 70th minutes, either side of goals from Nikola Vlasic and Eljif Elmas. The result means Bologna is unbeaten in all competitions in a 10-game run dating to Dec. 30. It climbs one spot into seventh. Torino remains in 11th.
Another draw undermines Leipzig's Champions League qualifying hopes

Another draw undermines Leipzig's Champions League qualifying hopes

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 2:46 p.m.  |  Save Story

Leipzig has missed a chance to boost it hopes of a Champions League place next season after a dreary 0-0 draw at Augsburg in the Bundesliga. Neither side was able to get a grip on the game and clear-cut chances were few on Friday. Augsburg will be happier with the point in a battling display. It remains 12th, while Leipzig stays fourth.
Ex-South Korea forward Hwang issued suspended jail sentence for sex tapes

Ex-South Korea forward Hwang issued suspended jail sentence for sex tapes

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 11:23 a.m.  |  Save Story

Former South Korea international Hwang Ui-jo has been handed a one-year suspended prison sentence for filming sexual encounters with a woman without her consent. Hwang was dropped from the national team in September 2023 after being charged with secretly filming two women on four occasions in 2022. The 32-year-old forward who played for South Korea at the 2022 World Cup and scored 19 goals in 62 appearances, was acquitted in the case of one woman and found guilty in the other. Seoul Central District Court accepted Hwang's remorse for his actions but said on Friday a strict punishment was called for.
Xabi Alonso and Leverkusen want to prove they're here to stay despite Bayern's 'dominance'

Xabi Alonso and Leverkusen want to prove they're here to stay despite Bayern's 'dominance'

James Ellingworth, Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 9:22 a.m.  |  Save Story

How do you follow up an historic upset? That's the question facing Xabi Alonso and Bayer Leverkusen as they seek to prove they belong among European soccer's top teams after ending Bayern Munich's 11-year reign in the German league last season. Leverkusen has kept together almost all of the key players who won the Bundesliga unbeaten last year, lifted the German Cup and nearly the Europa League trophy too. Still, it faces constant questions over how long key figures like Alonso and Florian Wirtz will stay.
US midfielder James Sands hopes St. Pauli move can help him earn a World Cup ticket

US midfielder James Sands hopes St. Pauli move can help him earn a World Cup ticket

CiarÁn Fahey, Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 8:20 a.m.  |  Save Story

United States defensive midfielder James Sands is hoping a mid-season switch to Bundesliga side St. Pauli can help him earn a ticket to the World Cup next year. The 24-year-old Sands joined St. Pauli on loan from New York City FC in January. He has made six league appearances for his new team, and has played the full 90 minutes in his last three games, suggesting he has already become a key player for coach Alexander Blessin. Sands has already made 13 appearances for the U.S., though he hasn't played for the national team since July 2023 and he's keen to get involved again.
Bayern Munich ties star player Jamal Musiala to contract until 2030

Bayern Munich ties star player Jamal Musiala to contract until 2030

The Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 14 - 8:02 a.m.  |  Save Story

Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala has extended his contract with the club through June 2030. The Bavarian powerhouse says the 21-year-old Musiala signed a new deal to extend the one he had that was expiring at the end of next season. Bayern president Herbert Hainer says "People go to the stadium for players like Jamal Musiala. He's a truly exceptional player." Musiala joined the club as a youth from English side Chelsea in 2019. Musiala's extension follows recently announced new deals for teammates Alphonso Davies and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
Ancelotti 'not concerned' about reports of Saudi Arabia tempting Vinicius away from Real Madrid

Ancelotti 'not concerned' about reports of Saudi Arabia tempting Vinicius away from Real Madrid

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 7:21 a.m.  |  Save Story

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti says he is not worried that Vinícius Júnior could be lured away by a bigger paycheck to play in Saudi Arabia. The Spanish and foreign sports media have spent weeks speculating that the 24-year-old Brazil international is the target of at least one Saudi Arabian club. Ancelotti tells reporters that he is "not concerned" because he believes the Brazil forward is "happy" at Madrid. Vinícius' current deal with Madrid runs through June 2027.
Deschamps sees Zidane as a 'natural' candidate to take over as France coach

Deschamps sees Zidane as a 'natural' candidate to take over as France coach

Jerome Pugmire, Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 6:33 a.m.  |  Save Story

France coach Didier Deschamps sees Zinedine Zidane as a "natural" candidate to take over when he steps down from the national team. Deschamps announced last month that he will stop after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a successful reign which began in 2012 and saw France win the 2018 World Cup and reach the 2022 final. Speculation has been high for several years that Zidane would take over eventually. Many see the former midfield great as the people's choice and Deschamps does not disagree. He says in an interview with sports daily L'Équipe that Zidane is a natural and an expected" candidate. Zidane won three Champions League titles as Real Madrid coach.
Man City defender Manuel Akanji out for 8-10 weeks after needing surgery on muscle injury

Man City defender Manuel Akanji out for 8-10 weeks after needing surgery on muscle injury

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 5:56 a.m.  |  Save Story

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says defender Manuel Akanji could be out for up to 10 weeks after needing an operation on a muscle injury. Akanji sustained the injury in the first half of the 3-2 loss to Real Madrid in the Champions League playoffs on Tuesday. Guardiola says Akanji will have surgery on Saturday and will miss eight-to-10 weeks.
Morning after scoring historic goal, 16-year-old Michael Noonan heads back to school

Morning after scoring historic goal, 16-year-old Michael Noonan heads back to school

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 5:34 a.m.  |  Save Story

Sixteen-year-old Michael Noonan didn't have much time to celebrate his historic goal for Shamrock Rovers. The Irish teenager had school in the morning. Noonan's second-half goal Thursday night gave the Hoops a 1-0 victory over Norwegian club Molde in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League playoff. At 16 years, 197 days, he became the youngest-ever scorer in the competition. But after a flight back to Dublin, he packed his bag for classes Friday morning. His mother, Sandie Noonan posted on X: "And back to school he goes..." with a picture of the teenager headed off to class.
'Accident waiting to happen': Arteta bemoans heavy schedule amid Arsenal injury crisis

'Accident waiting to happen': Arteta bemoans heavy schedule amid Arsenal injury crisis

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 5:22 a.m.  |  Save Story

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes the accumulation of long-term injuries experienced by some clubs is an "accident waiting to happen" because of the increased demands on players in a busy soccer calendar. Arteta said he felt a "big pain in the tummy" after seeing Kai Havertz pick up a serious hamstring injury that will rule the Germany forward out for the rest of the season. More games have been added to competitions like the Champions League and Club World Cup in recent years. Arteta says it's no surprise to see injury rates soar at Arsenal because of the extra load on his players and the increase in intensity in modern-day soccer.
Monaco's alarming slide dims the high expectations early in the season

Monaco's alarming slide dims the high expectations early in the season

Jerome Pugmire, Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 4:01 a.m.  |  Save Story

A few months ago Monaco was riding high in the French league and impressing in the Champions League. But now it's all going wrong for coach Adi Hütter's side. Monaco has been completely distanced in the Ligue 1 title race and trails Benfica in their Champions League playoff ahead of the second leg. Monaco is also out of the French Cup. Pressure is mounting on Hütter ahead of Saturday's home game with Nantes. While unbeaten leader Paris Saint-Germain has pulled 16 points clear of fourth-place Monaco, Hütter's side is looking over its shoulder. Lille is two points behind in fifth place and Lyon four behind in sixth.
Liverpool manager Slot addresses red card in Merseyside derby: 'Emotions got the better of me'

Liverpool manager Slot addresses red card in Merseyside derby: 'Emotions got the better of me'

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 3:00 a.m.  |  Save Story

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has regrets about his conduct that earned him a red card in the wild scenes after the Merseyside derby during the week. Slot appeared to aggressively shake the hand of referee Michael Oliver and make some comments to the official amid the post-match chaos at the 2-2 draw with Everton. He was one of four people to receive red cards after the game. Slot wasn't allowed to speak to media after the game as per Premier League rules regarding managers who receive red cards so he has addressed the events for the first time. He says "the emotions got the better of me and if I look back, I would love to do it differently."
Ban threatens Pakistan's involvement in soccer's Asian Cup

Ban threatens Pakistan's involvement in soccer's Asian Cup

John Duerden, Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 14 - 12:00 a.m.  |  Save Story

Pakistan's international soccer players are facing another spell in the sporting wilderness after the country was hit with a third FIFA suspension in less than eight years. The suspension was imposed just a month before the men's national team was scheduled to start qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup. FIFA recently announced the ban after the Pakistan Football Federation congress voted last month to reject changes to its constitution that were recommended by the sport's world governing body and the Asian Football Confederation. It follows similar punishments in 2017 and 2021. The ban needs to be lifted by March 4 for Pakistan to have any chance of playing its first Asian Cup qualifier against Syria on March 25
New top-tier men's soccer league coming to the United States

New top-tier men's soccer league coming to the United States

Anne M. Peterson, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 13 - 4:46 p.m.  |  Save Story

The United Soccer League intends to launch a new professional league in 2027-28 that will play at the top level of U.S. soccer, the same as Major League Soccer. The USL already has a pair of leagues, the second-tier USL Championship and the third-tier USL League One. The new league will require sanctioning by the U.S. Soccer Federation. The new division one league announced Thursday will have 12 to 14 teams. It aims to build on "USL's commitment to grow the game at all levels."
Shamrock Rovers forward Michael Noonan, 16, becomes youngest scorer in his debut

Shamrock Rovers forward Michael Noonan, 16, becomes youngest scorer in his debut

The Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 13 - 3:45 p.m.  |  Save Story

Irish teenager Michael Noonan had a debut to remember for Shamrock Rovers. The 16-year-old forward became what his team said was the youngest-ever goalscorer in European club competition. Noonan's second-half goal gave the "Hoops" a 1-0 victory over Norwegian club Molde in the first leg of their Conference League playoff. At 16 years, 197 days old, Noonan beat Romelu Lukaku's record by 21 days. Lukaku had set the record in December 2009 when he scored for Anderlecht against Ajax in the Europa League.
Mourinho's Fenerbahce beats Anderlecht 3-0 in Europa League playoff. Porto and Roma draw 1-1

Mourinho's Fenerbahce beats Anderlecht 3-0 in Europa League playoff. Porto and Roma draw 1-1

Daniella Matar, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 13 - 3:17 p.m.  |  Save Story

José Mourinho's Fenerbahce might have only just squeezed into the Europa League knockout playoff round but it is already on the brink of the round of 16. Fenerbahce dominated to beat Anderlecht 3-0 and take a comprehensive lead to Belgium for the second leg next week. Two of Mourinho's former clubs, Porto and Roma, drew 1-1. Ajax won 2-0 at Union Saint-Gilloise with 16-year-old Jorthy Mokio netting his side's second goal. Real Sociedad won 2-1 at Midtjylland and Ferencvaros beat Viktoria Plzen 1-0. Sixteen-year-old Michael Noonan netted on his Shamrock Rovers debut to help the Irish team win 1-0 at 10-man Molde. That made Noonan the youngest-ever goalscorer in a European club competition, his team said.
Arsenal confirms Kai Havertz needs hamstring surgery and will miss rest of season

Arsenal confirms Kai Havertz needs hamstring surgery and will miss rest of season

James Robson, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 13 - 10:45 a.m.  |  Save Story

Arsenal's Premier League title challenge has been dealt a blow after forward Kai Havertz was ruled out for the season with a hamstring injury. The Germany international sustained the injury during a training camp in Dubai this week. Arsenal says Havertz will undergo surgery in the coming days. The loss of Havertz leaves manager Mikel Arteta short of attacking options with Gabriel Jesus out for the season after ACL surgery. Havertz scored nine goals in 21 Premier League appearances this season.
Everton and Liverpool unite to condemn racist abuse directed at Abdoulaye Doucoure

Everton and Liverpool unite to condemn racist abuse directed at Abdoulaye Doucoure

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 13 - 8:13 a.m.  |  Save Story

Merseyside rivals Everton and Liverpool have united to condemn "in the strongest possible terms" racist abuse directed at Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure on social media. The teams say the abuse was received by Doucoure after the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on Wednesday that finished 2-2. After the final whistle, Doucoure was involved in a melee containing players, officials and police officers that took place in front of Liverpool's visiting fans. Everton and Liverpool say in a joint statement "such abuse is reprehensible and will not, and should not, be tolerated." They say the clubs "will work with Merseyside Police who are conducting an investigation with the aim of identifying the individuals responsible."
English soccer to debut semi-automated offside technology in FA Cup

English soccer to debut semi-automated offside technology in FA Cup

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 13 - 7:23 a.m.  |  Save Story

English soccer will use semi-automated offside technology for the first time in the fifth round of the FA Cup at the start of March. The AI-based player tracking technology was supposed to be introduced by the Premier League after one of the international breaks in the early months of the season but was delayed because of issues in the testing process. Premier League chief executive Tony Scholes said last week that progress has been made in recent weeks. It will first be used in the FA Cup, which has reached the last-16 stage. However the Football Association says it will be used only in seven of the eight matches over March 1-2.
Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson out for up to 2 months with hamstring injury

Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson out for up to 2 months with hamstring injury

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 13 - 6:59 a.m.  |  Save Story

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca says striker Nicolas Jackson has been ruled out for up to two months because of a hamstring injury. One potential replacement would have been Marc Guiu but Maresca says he is also out "for a while" with a hamstring problem. Christopher Nkunku is now the player most likely to lead the line for Chelsea. Jackson was substituted early in the second half of the 2-1 win over West Ham on Feb. 3. Maresca says "we all thought that it was not a big injury but unfortunately he had a scan a few days ago, it is an important one, and it will be around six-eight weeks."
Romania loses case about chaotic Kosovo game and must host World Cup qualifier in empty stadium

Romania loses case about chaotic Kosovo game and must host World Cup qualifier in empty stadium

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 13 - 4:37 a.m.  |  Save Story

Romania's soccer federation has lost its appeal against UEFA punishment for racist fan chants. Romania must play its first home qualifier for the 2026 World Cup in an empty stadium. That's against Bosnia-Herzegovina on March 21. The case was the first of two separate appeals at the Court of Arbitration for Sport about the chaotic Romania-Kosovo game last November in the Nations League. Romania fans chanted anti-Hungary slogans, and pro-Serbia slogans offensive to Kosovo players and fans. The Kosovo team refused to play on. UEFA later awarded Romania a 3-0 win by default.
Everton scores stoppage-time equalizer against Liverpool in last Merseyside derby at Goodison Park

Everton scores stoppage-time equalizer against Liverpool in last Merseyside derby at Goodison Park

Steve Douglas, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 12 - 5:13 p.m.  |  Save Story

The 120th and final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park delivered a stunning finish as James Tarkowski scored an equalizer for Everton in the eighth minute of stoppage time to secure a 2-2 draw with Liverpool in the Premier League. With virtually the last kick of the game, the center back smashed a shot into the roof of the net to spark wild celebrations inside one of English soccer's most venerable and atmospheric stadiums, which will be demolished at the end of this season. Goodison Park has been Everton's home since 1892. The club is moving to a new 52,888-capacity venue at Bramley-Moore Dock on Liverpool's waterfront. Tarkowski's goal denied Liverpool a win that would have lifted the leaders nine points clear.
Monaco's Musrati gets shown a quick red card in loss to Benfica

Monaco's Musrati gets shown a quick red card in loss to Benfica

The Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 12 - 5:02 p.m.  |  Save Story

Monaco midfielder Al Musrati gets a harsh-looking red card by referee Maurizio Mariani early in the second half of a Champions League playoff against Benfica. Monaco was trailing at the time to a goal from striker Vangelis Pavlidis and lost the game 1-0. Mariani showed him a second yellow card and sent him off in the 52nd minute, seemingly because Musrati asked for a yellow card for Benfica's Alvaro Carreras after he fouled Monaco striker Breel Embolo. Musrati did not appear aggressive or even to say much at all. But within one second Mariani had brandished the second yellow and ordered him off at Stade Louis II.
FC Dallas gets Luciano Acosta from FC Cincinnati for at least $5M in cash-for-player swap

FC Dallas gets Luciano Acosta from FC Cincinnati for at least $5M in cash-for-player swap

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 12 - 4:41 p.m.  |  Save Story

FC Dallas has acquired Argentine midfielder Luciano Acosta from FC Cincinnati for at least $5 million in one of the biggest official cash-for-player swaps to date in MLS. The 2023 MLS MVP is Cincinnati's franchise leader with 54 goals and 72 assists after joining the club in 2021. The $5 million deal has up to an additional $1 million in performance-based incentives. The 30-year-old is a two-time MLS All-Star team captain and one of six players in league history with three or more seasons of at least 10 goals and 10 assists.
Kane lifts Bayern to beat Celtic in Champions League playoffs. Milan, Atalanta and Monaco all lose

Kane lifts Bayern to beat Celtic in Champions League playoffs. Milan, Atalanta and Monaco all lose

Graham Dunbar, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 12 - 4:19 p.m.  |  Save Story

Bayern Munich looks set to survive the new Champions League playoffs round. AC Milan joined Atalanta and Monaco losing their first-leg games Wednesday. Bayern got high-class strikes from Michael Olise and Harry Kane either side of half time in a 2-1 win at Celtic. The return game is next Tuesday in Munich. Feyenoord's goal in a rain-soaked 1-0 win over Milan relied on an error by France goalkeeper Mike Maignan. Benfica won 1-0 at Monaco with another goal from in-form Greece forward Vangélis Pavlídis. Club Brugge scored with a disputed penalty kick in stoppage time to beat Atalanta 2-1.
AC Milan goalkeeper Maignan's rare howler gifts Feyenoord the only goal in defeat

AC Milan goalkeeper Maignan's rare howler gifts Feyenoord the only goal in defeat

The Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 12 - 4:04 p.m.  |  Save Story

A rare howler from standout goalkeeper Mike Maignan gifted Feyenoord a quick lead against AC Milan in their Champions League playoff. It proved the only goal in a 1-0 defeat. With heavy rain falling in the port city of Rotterdam he was beaten by Brazilian forward Igor Paixão's shot from the left side of the penalty area in the third minute. The greasy surface may have played a factor but Maignan seemed to misjudge the angled shot, which bounced up off his hands and flew in at the near post. Pascal Bosschaart got the ideal start as interim coach after taking charge just two days before the game.
Paixão helps Feyenoord fans forget Giménez as Dutch team tops AC Milan

Paixão helps Feyenoord fans forget Giménez as Dutch team tops AC Milan

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 12 - 3:47 p.m.  |  Save Story

Igor Paixão helps Feyenoord fans to forget Santiago Giménez by scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory over AC Milan in the first leg of their Champions League playoff. Giménez lined up on the other side for Milan after transferring from Feyenoord on the final day of the winter transfer window. He was expected to be sorely missed having scored five goals in the group stage. Instead he was upstaged by the livewire Paixão. The Brazilian striker scored from the edge of the penalty area in the third minute and almost added a superb goal in the 37th when he hit the crossbar with a dipping shot. By contrast Giménez was ineffective.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot one of four people sent off in wild finish to Merseyside derby

Liverpool manager Arne Slot one of four people sent off in wild finish to Merseyside derby

Steve Douglas, Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 12 - 3:38 p.m.  |  Save Story

Liverpool manager Arne Slot was one of four people sent off after the final whistle in a wild ending to Goodison Park's last-ever Merseyside derby. A melee broke out when Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure celebrated in front of Liverpool's visiting fans following James Tarkowski's equalizer for the hosts in the eighth minute of stoppage time. Liverpool substitute Curtis Jones took issue with Doucoure's conduct and grabbed hold of his rival, sparking a free-for-all. Doucoure and Jones were both shown second yellow cards. Slot was then given a straight red after appearing to aggressively shake referee Michael Oliver's hand. Slot's assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, was also shown a red card.
Former coach Vilda denies pressure on Hermoso to downplay kiss after Women's World Cup final

Former coach Vilda denies pressure on Hermoso to downplay kiss after Women's World Cup final

Tales Azzoni, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 12 - 10:03 a.m.  |  Save Story

Jorge Vilda, the former coach of Spain women's soccer team, has told a judge that ex-soccer federation president Luis Rubiales did not ask him to put pressure on Jenni Hermoso following the outcry that erupted after Rubiales kissed the player. Hermoso has already testified at Rubiales' trial that she did not consent to being kissed by him in the presentation ceremony after Spain won the 2023 Women's World Cup. Vilda said he talked to Hermoso's brother after the scandal broke because he was worried about the player, considering the huge media attention that was being given to the kiss. Vilda and two other former federation officials who testified Wednesday are accused of coercion.
Barcelona to play Atletico Madrid in Copa semifinals. Real Madrid faces Real Sociedad

Barcelona to play Atletico Madrid in Copa semifinals. Real Madrid faces Real Sociedad

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 12 - 8:39 a.m.  |  Save Story

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid will meet in the semifinals of the Copa del Rey while Real Madrid will take on Real Sociedad. Atletico and Madrid will play the second-leg matches at home in April, with the first legs being played in two weeks. Atletico beat Barcelona 2-1 in the Spanish league when the teams last met in December.
Wrexham says one of its players hospitalized after road incident on way home from match

Wrexham says one of its players hospitalized after road incident on way home from match

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 12 - 6:04 a.m.  |  Save Story

Wrexham says midfielder Elliot Lee was taken to the hospital after being involved in what the Welsh club described as a "road traffic incident" on the way home from a match. Lee is one of Wrexham's top players. The club says he "suffered no major injuries" in the incident that took place after the 1-0 home win over Bolton in the quarterfinals of the English Football League Trophy on Tuesday. Wrexham says there was another vehicle involved in the incident and that the driver of that vehicle "is being treated for their injuries." Lee is playing a key role in Wrexham's bid for a third promotion since being taken over by Hollywood celebrities Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
FIFA staffer reportedly arrested in Miami in alleged underage sex case

FIFA staffer reportedly arrested in Miami in alleged underage sex case

The Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 12 - 5:08 a.m.  |  Save Story

A staffer at FIFA has reportedly been arrested in Miami on suspicion of having sex with an underage boy while on a work trip from Zurich last year. World soccer body FIFA says it is "aware of ongoing legal proceedings in Miami" and that "The alleged offenses are serious and of a personal matter with no link to his work at FIFA." Its statement also said "The individual has been suspended with immediate effect." The Miami Herald reported that Jack Coles was detained Friday by federal agents from Homeland Security Investigations at a hotel near FIFA's offices in the Coral Gables neighborhood. Coles is a project leader with FIFA Sound which organizes music for the soccer body's events and broadcasts.
Saint-Etienne fans banned from French league game at rival Marseille

Saint-Etienne fans banned from French league game at rival Marseille

Samuel Petrequin, Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 12 - 5:02 a.m.  |  Save Story

Saint-Etienne supporters have been banned by French authorities from traveling to Marseille for this weekend's Ligue 1 game between the two clubs with the biggest fan bases in France. In an order published Wednesday, France's interior ministry said there is a "real and serious risk of confrontation" between the rival fans. Second-placed Marseille takes on struggling Saint-Etienne at the Stade Velodrome on Saturday. Relations between Marseille and Saint-Etienne fans have been marked by animosity for decades.
Bellingham strikes late for Real Madrid in 3-2 win at Man City in Champions League 1st leg playoff

Bellingham strikes late for Real Madrid in 3-2 win at Man City in Champions League 1st leg playoff

James Robson, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 12 - 3:15 a.m.  |  Save Story

Jude Bellingham struck in stoppage time to give Real Madrid a 3-2 victory in its Champions League playoff against Manchester City. Bellingham sealed a stunning comeback for holder Madrid in the first leg at the Etihad Stadium after City had led 2-1. Former City academy player Brahim Diaz leveled the game in the 86th minute before Bellingham's late winner silenced the home crowd. City had looked like taking a lead into the second leg at the Bernabeu next week after two goals from Erling Haaland. Paris Saint-Germain took a big step toward the round of 16 by beating Brest 3-0 and Juventus won 2-1 against PSV Eindhoven. Borussia Dortmund won 3-0 win at Sporting Lisbon.
Australia soccer star Sam Kerr found not guilty of racially aggravated harassment of police officer

Australia soccer star Sam Kerr found not guilty of racially aggravated harassment of police officer

Steve Douglas, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 11 - 5:04 p.m.  |  Save Story

Sam Kerr, one of the world's top female soccer players, has been found not guilty of racially aggravated harassment of a police officer. Kerr is a striker for Australia and for English club Chelsea. She accepted she called Police Constable Stephen Lovell "stupid and white" during a heated exchange at a police station after a night out, but had denied that it amounted to the charge. The verdict came on the seventh day of the trial at Kingston Crown Court in London. In a statement, Kerr says "While I apologize for expressing myself poorly on what was a traumatic evening, I have always maintained that I did not intend to insult or harm anyone..."
Actress Issa Rae joins San Diego FC ownership group

Actress Issa Rae joins San Diego FC ownership group

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 11 - 5:00 p.m.  |  Save Story

Actress and producer Issa Rae has joined the ownership group of Major League Soccer expansion club San Diego FC. The San Diego club kicks off its inaugural season on Feb. 23 at the defending MLS champion LA Galaxy. The team's primary owners are billionaire Mohamed Mansour and the Sycuan Tribe, the first Native American tribe to have an ownership stake in a professional soccer team. Rae joins a group of club partners including San Diego Padres' third baseman Manny Machado.
Nottingham Forest beats third-tier Exeter on penalties to advance in FA Cup

Nottingham Forest beats third-tier Exeter on penalties to advance in FA Cup

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 11 - 4:48 p.m.  |  Save Story

Nottingham Forest needed penalties to overcome third-tier Exeter in the FA Cup. High-flying Forest which is third in the Premier League standings won 4-2 in a shootout at St James Park after the game ended 2-2. Forest plays Ipswich in the fifth round.
American forward Jordan Pefok out six weeks with hamstring tear at French club Reims

American forward Jordan Pefok out six weeks with hamstring tear at French club Reims

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 11 - 4:17 p.m.  |  Save Story

American forward Jordan Pefok faces six weeks out after tearing his right hamstring playing for French club Reims. The Ligue 1 club posted the news on X and wished him a "good recovery." He went off injured about 20 minutes after coming on as a substitute in a French Cup win against Bourgoin-Jallieu last Thursday. He returned to Reims recently following spells with Rennes, Swiss team Young Boys and German sides Union Berlin and Borussia Mönchengladbach. His only goal for the US team came in 2021 against Honduras.
Sporting nears Champions League exit in Dortmund loss, extending a slump since Amorim left

Sporting nears Champions League exit in Dortmund loss, extending a slump since Amorim left

James Ellingworth, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 11 - 4:05 p.m.  |  Save Story

Three months since Ruben Amorim left Sporting Lisbon to take charge of Manchester United, nothing's the same for him or his old team. Sporting's 3-0 loss to Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Champions League playoffs Tuesday left Amorim's old club on the verge of elimination. The Portuguese champion hasn't won any of its five Champions League games since Amorim left. While a change of coach has thrown Sporting out of its rhythm, it may have got Dortmund back on track. Last season's Champions League runner-up was playing its first European game since Niko Kovac replaced the fired Nuri Sahin.
McKennie's superb strike for Juventus is US midfielder's latest Champions League goal

McKennie's superb strike for Juventus is US midfielder's latest Champions League goal

The Associated Press  |  Posted Feb. 11 - 3:37 p.m.  |  Save Story

Juventus was getting frustrated by PSV Eindhoven's gritty defending when Weston McKennie broke the deadlock in style in their Champions League playoff. The United States midfielder hit a blistering shot into the top right corner from just inside the penalty area in the 34th minute. It sent Juventus on the way to a hard-fought 2-1 win against the resilient Dutch side. Substitute Samuel Mbangula grabbed Juve's winner in the 82nd after veteran midfielder Ivan Perisic equalized with a slick goal early in the second half.
Man City fans taunt Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior over Ballon d'Or

Man City fans taunt Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior over Ballon d'Or

James Robson, Associated Press  |  Updated Feb. 11 - 3:06 p.m.  |  Save Story

Manchester City fans taunted Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior ahead of their Champions League playoff by unfurling a giant banner of Rodri kissing the Ballon d'Or. The Spain midfielder was voted the best player in the world last year ahead of Madrid forward Vinicius Junior. Madrid had boycotted the gala ceremony in Paris in October when Rodri was presented with soccer's most prestigious individual award. "Stop crying your heart out" read a message on the banner in reference to a hit record by Manchester rock band Oasis.