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Euro 2024: Ukraine keep hopes alive

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Slovakia 1 - 2 Ukraine Roman Yaremchuk scored a decisive goal for Ukraine, securing a comeback victory against Slovakia, keeping their Euro 2024 hopes alive.  The Valencia striker found the net just 13 minutes after coming on, deftly controlling Mykola Shaparenko’s pass and slipping the ball past Slovakia’s keeper, Martin Dubravka, into the bottom corner. Slovakia initially took the lead in the 17th minute through Ivan Schranz, who netted his second goal in consecutive games. However, Ukraine equalised in the 54th minute when Shaparenko converted Oleksandr Zinchenko’s cross. Yaremchuk then clinched the victory ten minutes before full-time, marking Ukraine’s first comeback win at the Euros since 2012 . Ukraine’s performance was a game of two halves. Despite a shaky start, the team created numerous chances. Goalkeeper Anatolii Trubin, stepping in for Andriy Lunin , made several crucial saves early on, denying Lukas Haraslin and Schranz. He also managed to keep out David Hancko’s fr

Euro 2024 reaction: Two nations respond

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Let's explore the best reaction to Scotland's thrashing against Germany You can read the European Super Football match report here:   Euro 2024: Germany win opening game  Katie, a Scotland fan, said: "In a match where the Scotland players needed to exceed expectations and be nearly flawless, I must admit I am very disappointed. I felt the keeper could have done better with the first goal; it was somewhat of a gift. But overall, Scotland lacked the bravery I expected. "In the qualifying stage against Spain, we saw that they could play bravely. However, this time, it seemed they had an inferiority complex. All the players were below par, and that is what concerns me. The players need to bounce back, but can they? That performance by Germany took the wind out of our sails." Liam, a Manchester United fan, watched the match as a neutral: "Germany were brilliant in the first 20 minutes. They conceded but it’s a good sign from their perspective that their p

Euro 2024: England name final squad for Germany

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England have confirmed their 26-man squad for the European Championships Gareth Southgate has revealed his final 26-man squad, and some notable names are missing. Manchester City's Jack Grealish, Manchester United's Harry Maguire, and Tottenham's James Maddison have all been left out. Burnley's goalkeeper James Trafford, Liverpool's defender Jarell Quansah, Everton's defender Jarrad Branthwaite, and Liverpool's midfielder Curtis Jones, who were part of the initial 33-player shortlist, have also not made the cut. Manchester United's Luke Shaw who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since mid-February, is part of the squad. This has come to the surprise of many but his experience and nature as one of England's best left-backs probably swung that in his favour. Euro 2024 news and stories (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com) International Friendly: England start Euros prep with a win (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com) Goalkeepers Dean Henderson (Cr

Euro 2024: Spain secure quarter-final spot against Germany

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Spain 4 - 1 Georgia Spain secured a highly anticipated quarter-final clash with hosts Germany by overcoming an early own goal to defeat Georgia 4-1 decisively. Spain and Germany have been standout teams in Euro 2024, and they are now set to face each other in the last eight in Stuttgart.  Georgia briefly looked poised to follow up their remarkable win over Portugal by eliminating the 2008 and 2012 winners. For a brief moment, that appeared possible when Robin Le Normand inadvertently redirected a cross into his own net. Giving Georgia the lead against the run of play. Spain, having started the game strongly, remained undeterred and continued to challenge Giorgi Mamardashvili's goal with 17 shots in the first half. Their persistence paid off when Rodri equalised with a precise strike. Kvicha Kvaratskhelia almost restored Georgia's lead with a clever attempt from his own half, but Spain completed their comeback just minutes later. Fabian Ruiz headed in a superb cross from L

Euro 2024: Denmark secure qualification from Group C

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Denmark 0 - 0 Serbia Denmark secured second place in Group C thanks to their superior disciplinary record compared to Slovenia after a lacklustre draw with Serbia. Neither team showcased their full potential, though Denmark were marginally better in a forgettable match in Munich. Denmark and Slovenia ended with identical records, requiring the teams to be separated by their yellow card tally. Both teams received six yellow cards, but Slovenian coach Novakovic Milivoje was also booked in the first game, which UEFA does not include in their disciplinary statistics , ultimately giving Denmark the narrowest of advantages. While Denmark and Slovenia progress to the next round, Serbia are eliminated, despite none of the three teams securing a win in the group stage. Euro 2024 news and stories (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com) Euro 2024: Denmark hold England (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com) Jonas Wind had a goal disallowed for Denmark in the first half because the ball had gone out of play

Euro 2024: Belgium off the mark in Group E

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Belgium 2 - 0 Romania Kevin De Bruyne led Belgium to a crucial Euro 2024 victory with an exceptional performance in a thrilling match against Romania in Cologne. Belgium, under pressure in Group E after losing their first game to Slovakia, delivered an outstanding attacking display, proving why they are among the favourites in Germany. In a vibrant and colourful atmosphere, Youri Tielemans' low shot put Belgium ahead just 73 seconds into the game, setting the stage for numerous scoring opportunities. Belgium and De Bruyne were unstoppable. The Manchester City midfielder secured the victory with a close-range goal after 79 minutes, leaving Group E finely balanced with all four teams on three points each. Romelu Lukaku was unlucky to have a goal disallowed by the  Video Assistant Referee,  who ruled him offside from De Bruyne’s perfect pass. After the disappointing defeat to Slovakia, Belgium responded impressively in a lively and action-packed encounter on Saturday. Tielemans&

ECQ: Scotland stun Norway with late goals

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Norway 1 - 2 Scotland There was a great finish to give Scotland a classic smash-and-grab victory and send their fans into party mode during a sun-dappled Oslo evening. With three minutes of normal time, Steve Clarke’s side trailed to Erling Haaland’s 59th goal of the season, and they were staring at their first defeat in Euro 2024 qualifying. Unlikely and sensational late goals from Lyndon Dykes and Kenny McLean maintained Scotland's perfect start to Euro 2024 qualifying as Steve Clarke's side stunned Norway in Oslo. Euro 2024 Qualifying (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com) A closer look at the match Erling Haaland's goal from the penalty spot just after the hour mark looked to have given the more lively Norwegians a victory which would have revived their Group A hopes. However, out of nothing Dykes pounced on a mistake with three minutes of normal time remaining to snatch what seemed like a brilliant point for Scotland. Then, barely two minutes later substitute McLean sw

International Friendly: Spain thrash Northern Ireland

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Spain 5 - 1 Northern Ireland Northern Ireland's unbeaten streak of three games came to an end with a 5-1 loss to Spain at Son Moix Stadium. Michael O'Neill's team made an early impact with Daniel Ballard's header putting them ahead in the second minute. However, Spain's superior quality shone through, particularly in the first half when they scored four goals. Sixteen-year-old Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal continued to impress, and it was Pedri who equalised for Spain just ten minutes after Northern Ireland's opener. Spain's Alvaro Morata, another goal from Pedri, and Fabián Ruiz had them leading 4-1 by half-time, with substitute Mikel Oyarzabal adding the final goal in the second half. Click here more news and stories from Euro 2024 Iconic moments from previous European Championships  Luis de la Fuente's squad now shift their focus to Euro 2024, starting their campaign on 15 June against Croatia. The match marked the international debut of St Mirr

ECQ: France start as they mean to go on

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 France 4 - 0 Netherlands Kylian Mbappe scored his first goals as France captain. The World Cup finalists began their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign with a fine win against the Netherlands. France were ahead after just two minutes when Antoine Griezmann curled in from Mbappe's pass. Defender Dayot Upamecano made it 2-0 six minutes later as he bundled in. Mbappe then scored again for France when he drove in, before powering home his second late on. Griezmann had reportedly been unhappy at being overlooked for the captaincy role given to Mbappe, but there were no signs of friction between the pair as they celebrated Mbappe's first of the night in the 21st minute. There is a lot of positive team spirit amongst these players.  We can also see that they have recovered from the heartbreak of losing the World Cup Final.  World Cup: Argentina triumph after classic final (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com) Kylian Mbappé has now scored more goals for France than Karim Benzema. He's

Premier League: City champions. Arsenal finish in 2nd

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 Arsenal 2 - 1 Everton Manchester City 3 - 1 West Ham United Manchester City are the 2023/2024 Premier League champions Arsenal narrowly missed out on their first Premier League title since 2004, despite securing a victory over Everton, as Manchester City ultimately clinched the title. For Arsenal to have been crowned champions, they needed to defeat Everton and hope that City failed to win against West Ham. 🎶 @LouisDunford ’s ‘The Angel’ rings around the Emirates Stadium before kick-off. 🎶 North London Forever 🎶 🎥 @jamesbenge pic.twitter.com/HFOGqwPOCg — afcstuff (@afcstuff) May 19, 2024 Arsenal faced an early setback when Idrissa Gueye’s deflected free-kick gave Everton the lead. However, Takehiro Tomiyasu equalised just three minutes later. While Arsenal eventually fulfilled their part with Kai Havertz's late winner, City's victory over West Ham dashed their title hopes. How the action unfolded in North London and East Manchester Phil Foden’s early brace for City a

Euro 2024: Spain secure spot in the last 16

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Spain 1 - 0 Italy Spain secured their spot in the last 16 of Euro 2024 with a scintillating performance against defending champions Italy in Gelsenkirchen. They created countless chances and were utterly dominant, but won by a narrow scoreline thanks to an own goal by Riccardo Calafiori in the second half. After being kept at bay by goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma for almost an hour, Alvaro Morata's flick-on was poked in by the knee of the unfortunate Calafiori. There was no response from Italy, who were comfortably second best, despite playing their part in a captivating match. Two European giants meeting in the group stage of the tournament meant there were high hopes and it lived up to its billing with an electric opening half. Spain delivered most of the eye-catching play, moving the ball around beautifully with intensity and creativity, while Italy succeeded in keeping them out - but only just. At the Arena AufSchalke (Veltins-Arena) this evening, watching the Spain v

Euro 2024: Germany leave it late to secure top spot

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Switzerland 1 - 1 Germany Substitute Niclas Füllkrug saved the day for Germany with a late equaliser, ensuring a 1-1 draw with Switzerland and securing the top spot in Group A. Switzerland looked set to progress to the last 16 as group winners after Dan Ndoye's early strike, but Füllkrug's header changed the narrative. The goal ignited celebrations among the German fans behind the goal, as their team preserved their unbeaten record in Euro 2024. For Switzerland, it was a heartbreaking turn of events after they had defended valiantly for over 90 minutes. Nevertheless, they advance to the knockout stages. Murat Yakin's side knew a win would see them surpass Germany, and they almost achieved this feat in Frankfurt, only to succumb to the relentless pressure in stoppage time. Germany had largely frustrated their home supporters with a lacklustre performance, but a late surge of opportunities finally bore fruit. Earlier, Swiss fans were jubilant, celebrating Ndoye’s superb f

Euro 2024: France hold out against Austria

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Austria 0 - 1 France France began their tournament with a composed 1-0 victory over a spirited Austria. The match was decided by a first-half own goal.  Didier Deschamps’ team played within their capabilities, exploiting Austria’s right-side defence whenever Kylian Mbappé, who finished the game with a broken nose, accelerated down the wing. Starting slowly and conserving energy, this French team displayed their confidence and experience. Not much has changed since the 2022 World Cup. They maintained their familiar 4-3-3 formation, embodying Deschamps' philosophy with athleticism and technical prowess in every position. Mbappé remains a constant threat, always poised to deliver a decisive moment. France’s manager will be pleased with the midfield control offered by Adrien Rabiot and the dynamic performance of N’Golo Kanté , who rolled back the years with his display. By the end of the match, one thing was evident: France remains the team to beat. Their victory seems almost inev

International Friendly: Hungary lose warm-up friendly against Republic of Ireland

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 Republic of Ireland 2 - 1 Hungary John O'Shea strengthened his bid to become the permanent Republic of Ireland manager following a 2-1 victory over Euro 2024-bound Hungary. In a close encounter at Dublin's Aviva Stadium, Troy Parrott netted a last-minute winner, securing O'Shea's first win as interim manager. Adam Idah opened the scoring in the 36th minute with a header, only for Adam Lang to equalise four minutes later from close range. Parrott took advantage of several defensive errors to score in the 92nd minute, handing Hungary their first defeat in 14 matches. The first 30 minutes of the game were lacklustre, marked by loose passes and weary legs in Dublin. Hungary initially had the upper hand, with Loic Nego curling an early effort over and Andras Schafer shooting wide. Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher was called into action to save a shot from Milos Kerkez before the hosts took the lead against the run of play. Just ten days after scoring the winner fo

Iconic Euros Moments: Wales v Belgium (2016)

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 Wales 3 - 1 Belgium (Euro 2016) Let's explore another iconic moment from the European Championships. Wales recorded the greatest night in their football history as they came from a goal down to beat Belgium at Euro 2016. Radja Nainggolan put Belgium ahead in Lille with a stunning 25-yard strike but Wales captain Ashley Williams headed in from a corner to equalise in a breathless first half littered with chances at both ends. Welsh celebrations reached stratospheric levels when Hal Robson-Kanu, a striker without a club at the time, gave them the lead with a divine turn and finish. Iconic Euros Moments: Throwback to England v Scotland (1996) After withstanding late Belgium pressure, Wales sealed victory through a header from substitute Sam Vokes to set up a semi-final against Portugal and what many believed would be a mouth-watering duel between Gareth Bale and his former Real Madrid team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo. Wales manager Chris Coleman later described the last-eight tie as W

Iconic Euros moments: Throwback to England v Italy (2021)

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Ahead of Euro 2024, we will start looking back at some iconic moments from previous competitions.  First up is a recap of the final of the last tournament.  You can watch the highlights of the match in the video below. What were your memories of that memorable night?  HIGHLIGHTS | More penalty pain for England as Italy win Euro 2020 (youtube.com) England's hopes of ending a 55-year wait for a major trophy were crushed heartbreakingly as they lost 3-2 on penalties to Italy in the final of Euro 2020 at Wembley.  On a night of incredible tension played in a feverish atmosphere, England looked on course for their most joyous day since the 1966 World Cup final when Luke Shaw gave them the dream start after only two minutes. Italy eventually edged their way back into the game and were level in the 67th minute when Leonardo Bonucci pounced after England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford turned Marco Verratti's header onto the post. More news from across Italy England look ahead to Euro

Euro 2024: Switzerland knock holders out

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Switzerland 2 - 0 Italy Switzerland delivered an impressive performance, defeating Italy 2-0 in Berlin and knocking the defending champions out of Euro 2024. Luciano Spalletti had made six changes to the Italian starting line-up in search of a winning formula, but it was clear from the start that Switzerland were the superior team. Breel Embolo nearly broke the deadlock before Remo Freuler opened the scoring. Switzerland dominated possession, having over 60% of the ball and creating eight of the first nine shots on goal. Their persistence eventually paid off when Ruben Vargas set up Freuler, who became the sixth different scorer for Switzerland in the tournament. Just 27 seconds into the second half, it got even better. Vargas found the back of the net with a stunning strike. Italy lost possession from the kick-off, and Vargas curled his shot past PSG's Gianluigi Donnarumma into the top corner. Italy struggled to respond, their best chance coming when Fabian Schar headed agains

International: England edge out Australia

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England 1-0 Australia Ollie Watkins made a triumphant return to the England national team by scoring the winning goal in a friendly match against Australia at Wembley. The Aston Villa striker turned in Jack Grealish's shot from very close to the goal line just before the one-hour mark, creating one of the few bright moments in an otherwise unimpressive performance by the English team. Watkins made up for a missed opportunity in the first half when he hit the post. Australia couldn't capitalize on several chances before halftime. Sam Johnstone, who was given the opportunity to play as the goalkeeper, made an excellent save against Keanu Baccus, and Mitchell Duke narrowly missed with a volley.  UK and Republic of Ireland announced as Euro 2028 hosts (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com) Lewis Dunk also came to the rescue, clearing a shot off the line from Ryan Strain. After Watkins scored, Australia had a late opportunity to level the score, but Connor Metcalfe hit the post with a

UCL: Real Madrid win the Champions League again

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Borussia Dortmund 0- 2 Real Madrid Real Madrid overcame a formidable challenge from underdogs Borussia Dortmund to secure the Champions League title at Wembley. Carlo Ancelotti made history once again with his fifth win as a manager in the competition, while Real Madrid claimed their 15th title in typical fashion. They weathered a stormy first half and several missed opportunities from Dortmund before emerging victorious. A brief summary of the match Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi missed two chances in the first half, and striker Niclas Fullkrug struck the post. Real Madrid's recalled goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, was also a formidable barrier. As expected, Real Madrid upped the ante, with Dani Carvajal nodding in a header from a corner 16 minutes from time, followed by Vinicius Jr racing clear to add a second goal. This victory crowned a glorious first season at Real Madrid for Jude Bellingham, but it was a night of disappointment for Jadon Sancho, on loan to Dortmund from Manch

ECQ: England name squad for next matches

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England’s squad to take on Malta and North Macedonia in June’s Euro 2024 qualifiers has been named by Gareth Southgate. England's next internationals start with a trip to Malta for the first match on Friday 16th June.  They then travel to Manchester, where North Macedonia will be the opposition at Old Trafford on Monday 19th June. Among the list of players mentioned, you will see Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze. This would be his first senior call-up. The former Millwall and QPR youngster had previously been capped at Under 21s level.  In a statement on the England Football website, it is confirmed that: "The majority of the squad will report to St. George’s Park to begin their preparations for the games on Monday 12 June, while players involved with their clubs at UEFA European Finals will join at a later date." Euro 2024 Qualifying (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com) The England squad in full Goalkeepers: Sam Johnstone (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsd