Watch Sunderland vs Newcastle live stream 20/8/2011

For a live stream of Sunderland vs Newcastle on Saturday August 20th CLICK HERE

Tomorrow sees the North East's two biggest clubs locking horns once more and the rivalry will be even more fierce with the two clubs having a very similar display of ability and success at the present, both treading water in the middle of the table only a point apart, and both having spent recent seasons in the 2nd tier of English football, Sunderland being a league above the more glamourous Newcastle last season and so today sees the rivarly renewed after a season break. In fact the local council has seen the kickoff time shifted from an initial 4pm start back to a 1:30pm kickoff to prevent there being more drinking time for fans before the match and in turn less risk of more rowdy behaviour.

Childhood Newcastle fan and Sunderland Manager, Steve Bruce, will be having his first experience at the helm for a Tyne-Wear derby and the black cats are enjoying a very respectable start to this campaign beating Manchester City and holding Liverpool and Manchester United to draws in their own grounds and only having lost once in their matches, to West Brom. The team have been reeling from a solid defensive unit including the reliable Michael Turner and Titus Bramble leaking very few goals thus far this season and also the firepower of Darren Bent at the other end helping them gain results.

Newcastle's season has been more modest and has seen trouble with trusted players like Andy Carroll, receiving punishment for fracars and question marks being raised over the ability of Chris Hughton to keep a steady ship for the club back in the premiership. Other elements have enhanced this lack of confidence with Hughton being angered by Colin Calderwoo'ds departure to take the reigns at Hibernian and also being furious when confronted with talk of rumours that bookmakers stopping taking bets on an oncoming leaving of him from the club. Newcastle have strived to dispel these rumours with mention of a possible new deal for Hughton but all at the club will just be hoping that a good performance in the tyne wear derby will go a long way to helping the club reach greater heights in the league and get Newcastle back on track after the mid week thrashing at the hands of Arsenal.



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FOR A LIVE STREAM OF MANCHESTER UNITED VS TOTTENHAM ON MONDAY AUGUST 22ND CLICK HERE

Manchester United go into today's evening kickoff with the disappointing news that Michael Owen will be out for a further three weeks after suffering a hamstring injury picked up in training as he was trying to get himself back in shape after a groin injury. However Javier Hernandez is currently flying in red hot form as he scored both goals in the 2-1 win at Stoke last week and the winner against Wolves in the league cup on Tuesday and will give Sir Alex Ferguson a welcome morale boost after a shaky display by the team in some matches this campaign.

Hernandez's fine form is also crucial as Rooney is now expectected to be out for longer with his ankle injury. Owen Hargreaves and Giggs are also ruled out with injuries whilst Antonio Valencia is on the long term layoff list with a dislocated ankle he picked up in the champions league match with Rangers a month ago.

Whilst United have been shakey and let in goals to see them drop points against much lesser opposition this season, they still have not lost any of the 15 matches they've played in all competitions this year. They also have not lost to Tottenham in their last 18 meetings, with it last happening in May 2001. Tottenham have also failed to win at Old Trafford for almost 21 years, with Gary Linekar's solitary goal in a 1-0 win in December 1989 being the last occasion. Harry Redknapp has also never managed a side that has won at the Theatre Of Dreams so as you can see a win for Tottenham tomorrow would be legendary and would break many ducks which have been formed.

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Watch Blackburn vs Chelsea english premiership live stream and highlights

Premiership trailblazers Chelsea will be hoping to race even further away from the pack with a win in lancashire tomorrow as they head to Blackburn. The champions are following on from the end of last season, this season, only missing out on 5 points from the 9 games they've played. They've been untouchable at Stamford Bridge, winning 5 out of the 5 fixtures there they've played, although more mortal away losing and drawing a match. Despite that they've found the net 9 times on the road and only let in 2 goals in the 4 away matches. Chelsea have a pretty proud record at Ewood Park, only losing 1 game in the last 10 seasons (1-0 defeat in 2006) and Blackburn won't be feeling overconfident going into the match today with them also failing to win in 3 games.

It's has been a lacklustre start to the campaign for Blackburn as their usually promising home form has been dented, whilst their away displays have been poor. Only winning once at home and it being on the opening day of the season, they have also only scored 3 times at Ewood. A seemingly bleak look to them trying to net against Chelsea today, with Chelsea only conceding twice in away games. Blackburn will be up against the odds and a victory for them would be a real turn up for the books.

Team news for Rovers sees Christopher Samba back after a suspension layoff received for being sent off against Sunderland and should see him figure in the match today. Sam Allardyce's men will also be looking to start Ryan Nielsen after recent thigh problems. Whilst Steven Nzonzi looks unlikely to figure after bowing out in the first half of the deafeat at Liverpool and Keith Andrews is on the long term absentee list as he has to undergo Groin Surgery.

For Chelsea, they will be encouraged by the return of Alex at the heart of their defence, after the player was ruled out last week in their trip to Wolves because of a thigh strain. John Terry will partner him in central defence. Frank Lampard and Yossi Benayoun are continued absentees with respective hernia and Achilles injuries, though Ancelotti has no other fresh concerns. Ramires should be passed fit after picking up a knock, while Didier Drogba has fully recovered from a virus.

Blackburn Rovers vs Chelsea Live Stream and highlights






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watch newcastle vs arsenal carling cup live stream and highlights

Tonight sees a shakeup for the Newcastle starting eleven as manager Chris Hughton is looking to rest certain players who will be vital for Sunday's North East derby between the magpies and Sunderland. Tamas Kadar, Shane Ferguson and Haris Vuckic are rumoured to be up for contention for a place on the pitch but players Sol Campbell, Steven Taylor, Steve Harper, Leon Best, Hatem Ben Arfa and Dan Gosling are all ruled out with injury issues.

Newcastle boss Chris Hughton is focused and eager to hand out the same fate to Arsenal as the magpies did to Chelsea in the last round although he also owns up to the fact that it is consolidating their position in the Barclays Premiership this season that is the club's main focus and they currently have a morale boost and look more likely to achieve that goal on the evidence of their 2-1 win at West Ham at the weekend. Although positive perfomances in the League cup will be a valuble bonus to the team and establish momentum with them going into league fixtures.

Hughton said: "It's exciting in every round. We went to Accrington in our first game - I had been to watch a game there, but never played there and most of the players had never played there, so that was something new and exciting in itself. To go to Stamford Bridge was always going to be tough, but it was a really exciting day in front of a full house at Stamford Bridge, and you couldn't have got a more exciting game than that. Now the fact that we are playing Arsenal, albeit that Arsenal will, I am quite sure, make several changes, as we will, it's exciting in every round. I am appreciative that it is a very big game for us. It's a game we want to give the respect it deserves, and it's a competition we very much want to stay in. But I have a responsibility to look after the best interests of the squad and the club, and I will be making some changes."

By contrast Arsene Wenger will be likely to choose his best eleven for the match. Nicklas Bendtner and Theo Walcott are both back after injury issues while youngsters Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, Kieran Gibbs, Henri Lansbury - who scored in the last round at White Hart Lane - and goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny will probably be included again. However Thomas Vermaelen (Achilles), Robin van Persie (ankle), Manuel Almunia (elbow) and Aaron Ramsey (leg) are still sidelined, while England midfielder Jack Wilshere continues to serve a three-match ban.



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Watch Manchester United vs Wolves Carling Cup live stream

Michael Owen could see a return to the Manchester United starting lineup tonight as he got back to training after a groin injury and is possible for an appearance as United boss Sir Alex is set to make many changes to his side, as he is acustomed to do for League cup ties. Owen netted twice in the 5-2 victory over Scunthorpe in the last round and will be hoping for a repeat of his magic in the tie against Wolves at Old Trafford tonight. Rooney however is still absent and will be for another month due to ankle problems and Giggs and Jonny Evans are also having to sit it out.

United's most hailed player at the moment, Javier Hernandez, stole the show on Sunday by firstly scoring an amazing instintive header in the first half, then saving United's skin by scoring late and grabbing the 3 points for the team and earning their first league away win of the campaign. Talking ahead of tonight's fixture he claims that it is the prowess of his team mates that has resulted in his fine recent form and his performance on Sunday went a long way to securing his position in the starting lineup tonight as they continue to try and reclaim the trophy they've won for thw past 2 seasons, the Carling Cup.

Hernadez said: "I'm happy and I always say that the goals are all part of the team. It is a game about the team. We play with 11 and there are also seven waiting, it doesn't matter who scores. The most important thing is that there are no heroes - it's all about the effort of the team and my goals are down to my team-mates. They have trust in me, and also the staff. It's an unbelievable opportunity for me to play with the biggest team in the world, Manchester United. I'm working hard because I want to stay here a long time and win lots of trophies."

Team news for Wolves sees Stephen Hunt possibly seeing his first outing for the midlanders this season after finally shaking off a foot injury and will want to start proving himself to the molineux faithful after his signing from Hull in the summer. Ronald Zubar, Jody Craddock and Michael Kightly are all ruled out with inuury problems and captain Karl Henry is suspended.

Wolves have gone on a disappointing 4 match winless streak but manager Mick McCarthy remains positive and sees no reason why this poor form can't be stopped tonight at the Theatre Of Dreams.

Talking ahead of the match he said: "At this moment in time, wouldn't it be great for us to have a cup run? Everyone knows about the games we've got. We've just been beaten by Chelsea, we've got Man United in the cup, [Manchester] City in the league, United in the league then Arsenal in the league. So wouldn't it be great to have a victory of any sorts amongst all of those? And if it's going to be in the Carling Cup, let's have it."



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watch stoke city vs manchester united premiership football live stream

Sir Alex Ferguson has stated that maintaining Rooney's presence at the club will help jumpstart Manchester United's season as they lag 8 points behind the leaders with some disappointing displays this season so far which have seen them drop points to much lowlier opposition. Rooney will be sidelined for another 3 weeks
so Ferguson will be likely to keep Berbatov up front today as a lone frontman until his return, possibly against Manchester City on the 10th of November. Javier Hernandez is also a clear option for Sir Alex but he will most probably start on the bench.

Rooney put question marks on United's ambition this week and Ferguson demanded that he apologise to his team-mates as the team's morale is in need of bolstering after the shaky events that have occured at Old Trafford over the last few days. “We have to start making up ground quickly,” Ferguson admitted.“We can only do that with everyone on board. With no one jumping ship then we can see the real Manchester United. It has been a turbulent few days, we have important issues ahead, starting with Stoke City on Sunday. We have been hurt by events but Wayne has apologised to me and the players. He will do so with the supporters too. I always feel it is a quality in a person when they say they are sorry and realise they have made a mistake.”

Rooney was alleged to have locked horns with Ferguson over United's midfield situation and he claimed United should have beaten Tottenham to the punch for Dutch midfielder Rafael Van Der Vaart's signature over the summer. It’s a mistake Ferguson may yet rectify in the coming window by adding to United’s creative options in midfield. For now Paul Scholes will return despite United being over-run by Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion recently.

Michael Carrick, Darron Gibson or Anderson are expected to be picked to play alongside Scholes and Darren Fletcher in the United midfield whilst Ryan Giggs, Michael Owen and Jonny Evans miss out through injury.

Ferguson will have been shocked by the last few days events and will need to ensure that the United team can pull in together to take the club to higher climbs performance wise and in the league. Full back Patrice Evra questioned whether Rooney should still have a place at the club if he doesn't trust his team-mates but remains firm that the team with find their winning streak again in the oncoming weeks.

“Anyone can talk about Manchester United, but nobody has beaten us. The problem is just Manchester United because no team has played better than us,” said the Frenchman.“People may think I am crazy to say that, but it is true. We have played many games and been 2-0 up and then drawn or made things difficult. The problem is just us because when we defend like we can, we show we are a strong team. No-one can tell me we have played badly against anyone. I believe that. I think we are playing well. We are just doing some silly mistakes. That is the true problem. We can be the Manchester United everyone wants to see.”





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watch liverpool vs blackburn english premiership live stream

Liverpool's match today sees the return of trusted faces in the side after they were rested for the midweek trip to Italy where Liverpool played Napoli in the Europa League. Fernando Torres, Steven Gerrard, Raul Meireles and Lucas Leiva are the players which will be contention for places in the starting lineup. Glen Johnson will also be back after an injury layoff and Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger are a possibility to play after injury and illness setbacks. Dirk Kuyt will have to sit it out however as he is still being troubled with ankle injury.

Despite Liverpool's hardships this season in the board room where the ownership is in question and also out on the pitch where poor results have mounted up and see the club languishing in the drop zone, manager Roy Hodgson is still positive and defiant stating that the struggles will make them a stronger unit. Their position at present is most unusual for the club who always tend to finish in the top 4 in recent years and have seen them make glorious assaults in Europe with 2 champions league final appearances in the last 5 years, winning one and losing one. The club are struggling so heavily at the moment that talk of qualifying for the europa league next season seems very far fetched but Hodgson believes the club will fightback the deficit and prove critics wrong.

"I think we are getting stronger as a team and a squad and we are becoming more organised in the sense of how I would like to see us organised" he told Press Association Sport. "As far as I am concerned it is still a work in progress and we have an awful lot of rebuilding to do. But having gone to Naples after a derby defeat and getting a good goalless draw with a team no-one expected to get that is positive going into the game on Sunday. What we need is a bit of luck. When you are down there and you are not getting the victories the pressure builds up and confidence takes a battering and everyone starts to question things. There is lots of speculation and negative things being said but we understand that. It is par for the course and that is what football is. But the only way you can get out of it is keep working hard, keep trying to get those results and then hopefully, when you have done it, it will make you stronger for it. Most of the players and myself are more accustomed to pats on the back than kicks in the teeth but we also know that in football kicks in the teeth are part of the game. What you do is try to keep as many teeth as you can and try to get on with it."

Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce believes opposite number in Anfield should be given time to fix the troubles on the pitch for Liverpool and that he can't be blamed for their shortcomings this season.

"I always thought this would be a year of transition for a club that has sold off a lot of its players and Roy has a huge task, but I didn't think they would have as few points as they have at the moment,'' said the Blackburn manager. "All the pressure of the takeover and the money situation has obviously affected the team. There's a healthy atmosphere in a football club that you can feel that there's something great and it's building, and there's the opposite which has created a knock to that normal Liverpool feeling. It's one of the institutions of football made great by the late, great Bill Shankly and that has declined now, the feeling has been lost and it's a great shame, and that's what they must grasp back. It's not just down to Roy Hodgson, it's the structure of the club as a whole, building the atmosphere back. I feel for Roy, he seems to be bearing the brunt of the blame. If he gets enough time he will get it right."





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watch manchester city vs arsenal english premiership live stream

Man City manager has stressed to striker Emmanuel Adebayor to not think of repeating last year's provocative goal celebration for Manchester City when he scored against former employers, Arsenal, when he faces them at Eastlands today. Adebayor ran up the field towards Arsenal fans after netting the third goal in a 4-2 victory last season and in turn, Arsenal fans threw missiles in a riot. Adebayor had a 25,000 pound fine slapped on him for the celebration and a suspension for 2 games. He was also banned for 3 games for stamping on Arsenal player Robin Van Persie's face. The player will have to start the match on the bench despite netting a hat-trick in the midweek win over Lech Poznan in the europa league and City will be looking to extend teh gap to 6 points with a win over the gunners today.

Regarding Adebayor's flashpoint last season and is attitude in this game he said: "It's better to stay calm," said the City boss. "This will be a very difficult game because when Arsenal play well they are probably the best team in the Premier League. I don't know if we can be title challengers. Arsenal have played together for many years."

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watch celtic vs rangers scottish football live stream

Today's biggest fixture of the Scottish football calendar has even more significance placed on it with both Celtic and Rangers firing away with equal gusto, winning their first 8 matches in this season's SPL, Rangers only being top on goal difference and hoops boss, Neil Lennon believes his side have their "tails up" and his side are unbeaten since he took over in March from Tony Mowbray.

Celtic are reeling with confidence after last week's hard fought win over Dundee United at Tannadice last week and Lennon claims it is their best performance of the season so far. He is also encouraged by the fashion in which the team have come together alongside the new players that were signed in the summer and says they are in peak condition ahead of the match against their sworn enemies today, Rangers.

"I think it's as good as it gets from where we started from," said the former Celtic captain. "We have a lot of new players who have to get used to the culture and environment of Scottish football and I think they have coped very well with that. They are playing some good stuff and they were excellent against Dundee United last week. I couldn't have asked any more from them in terms of a team performance and an attacking performance. So the tails are up, there is a wee bit of excitement about this game and the players are looking forward to it. We have gone about things as normal this week but we have worked on a few different things and ways we think we can exploit Rangers."

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watch arsenal vs shaktar donetsk uefa champions league live stream

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is still mulling over whether to take a chance on playing captain Cesc Fabregas for tonight's match with Shakhtar Donetsk at the emirates. The Spanish international has not played since the 18th Of September on the back of a hamstring strain which was suffered when a ball was kicked against his leg when the gunners played Sunderland, after it hit his leg it looped over the Sunderland Keeper and got a goal for Arsenal which was mixed emotions for the skipper. It is a real anxiety for the gunners as they have suffered defeats on the trot in the English premiership without the Spaniards services, although they bounced back against Birmingham at the weekend. Both Shaktar and Arsenal have won their opening 2 games and whoever is the victor tonight in London could all but definitely secure a second round place. Wenger is in 2 minds at the moment on whether to feature his star midfielder or whether to hold him back and not risk him doing more damage to himself with a premature return.

"Cesc has prepared well. He had a little setback, but got over the hurdle and is ready to play at full fitness, but whether I start him or not, I do not know yet,'' Wenger said. "It will be whether I take a gamble or not, because he has been out for a long time. But physically he is ready and fit - and wanting to play. You know his influence on our team, he is our leader, our passer, he has a good level of assists and a good goalscoring record. Ideally you want him in the team.''

Shaktar are flying this season with a perfect 100% defensive record in Europe and winning 15 out of 17 games in their domestic league. Wenger is not naive to the challenge he faces tonight.

"In this group until now you had 12 points at stake - six went to Shakhtar, six went to Arsenal. That means what is at stake is the qualifying and also the top of the group, which is why it is a very important game. It is a key game because it gives us an opportunity to basically think we have qualified."

Arsenal will see the return of Jack Wilshere, Nicklas Bendtner and Theo Walcott and their attacking options are increased from these additions.

Eduardo has a heartfelt return to the emirates tonight and is unlikely to cheer if he's to net against his former associates as they helped him comeback from a horrific leg injury suffered in 2008 against Birmingham in which his leg was broken and ankle was dislocated. He knew it was the right time to leave Arsenal in the summer but still holds the club dear to his heart.

"It was great times here with Arsenal, but now I am on the other side and play for Shakhtar,'' said Eduardo. "I will give them 100%, am ready to play and will give my all best tomorrow.''He added: "I don't think I will celebrate. I respect the club. I had some great moments here and have respect for the supporters and Mr Wenger, for the club. I came from Croatia and learned a lot at Arsenal. Now I have more experience than before. When you play for Dinamo Zagreb and someone like Mr Wenger finds you, takes you to play in the Premier League, that is big respect. He believed in me. But now the most important thing is that now I am on the other side I will give all my best tomorrow. If I score, it will be good for Shakhtar. Hopefully we can finish with a positive result."






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watch real madrid vs ac milan uefa champions league live stream

Two of Europe's legendary teams are to face each other at the Bernabeau tonight. Real Madrid and AC Milan are the 2 most victorious teams in European cup history, winning the trophy on 16 times between them and the 2 sides again see themselves battling it out at the top of the heap, this time in group G, with Real having a perfect 100% start to the Eurpean campaign under new boss, Jose Mourinho, and Milan only just behind by 2 points. There's also ties the clubs have in Milan being triumphant over Real at this same stage of the competition last year, Milan having ex Madrid player Robinho in their team, after he left Madrid on less than amicable terms in 2008, Also Jose Mourinho had a very profitable spell at Milan's deadly rivals Inter, bagging a treble last year.

All that aside, Mourinho states that the match will be approached by him and his players just like he does with any other match, saying: "We've played nine games this season and none is more important than the other, no opponent deserves more respect than any other. We're preparing for the game and we are studying our opponents with the same intensity. They are an opponent with a different history (to other teams), because between them and us we`ve won 16 European Cups, but it`s one more game. If we win, then the day after will be Wednesday, and if we lose it will also be Wednesday. We`re in a calm situation. We`re first in the group and in control of our own destiny. We`re not playing a knock-out tie, but to qualify for the next round."

Regarding the situation of facing Ibrahimovic he said, "We're playing against a team, not one player, but Ibra is different. The know him in Italy and I know him, but in Spain they don`t, because here he didn`t have confidence. In a team as well organised as Milan, a player like that can make the difference."

Mourinho also brought to the attention the menace that Milan's other forward Filippo Inzaghi has in abundance. He was speaking from a press conference at Madrid's training base and the Portugese star manager has another impressive record on the back of taking up his new reign at the bernabeau and that sees Madrid winning 7 out of the 9 games he's played and them neting 10 goals in the last 2 fixtures.

Ibrahimovic played under Mourinho at Inter Milan, won the title with him and has nothing but praise for his former associate. "My rapport with Mourinho? He inspired me," said Ibrahimovic. "He is a winner. Allegri seems a calmer person, with less presence than Mourinho or (Fabio) Capello."

Ibrahimovic, who has netted the most times for his new club Milan this year, has no regrets about his switch back to Italy this year. "To be back in Italy really excites me," he said. "The fans are different, they are more active than with respect to the Spanish supporters. In Spain, they applaud when you do something nice as though you were in the theatre. In Italy it's a different thing altogether."

As for having to battle with Madrid tonight he added: "Do they (Real) fear me? If they do, I'm happy. But I try to work hard for the team. Because only with the team can you go far."





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watch Bayern Munich vs CFR cluj-napoca uefa champions league live stream

Bayern Munich will take another huge step towards the next phase of this season's champions league with a win over the Romanians, Cluj, tonight, as they have already chalked up wins against their 2 previous opponents in this season's champions league, Roma and Basel, and so they will be sitting pretty at the top of their group with 3 points against the Romanians and Munich goalkeeper Hans-Jorg Butt says a win tonight in the Allianz Arena is vital to shape the German champions season which recently had seen the club faltering and languishing in mid table in their domestic Bundesliga. With these hardships, gaining a qualification to the second phas early will surely boost the morale of last season's champions league runners up and Munich stopper, Butt is eager for the three points.

"We want to reach the next round and to do that, we have got to win our home games,'' he said."With nine points, we would be a long way clear and that would be a huge step.''

Bayern got their domestic campaign off the ground at the weekend, trouncing Hannover 3-0 with mario Gomez netting a hat-trick and he will be relied on heavily tonight to provide some needed firepower. "I am not going to replace a striker who has scored three goals,'' said Munich manager Louis van Gaal."I think he will score another goal tomorrow."

Gomez is an international player for Germany and does not want to give up his starting place easily and maintains he needs to keep up his good form. "I cannot and will not let up,'' he said. "It is not always going to be three goals, but I will always try to score in the next game. We have tanked up on self-confidence."

Louis Van Gaal is awaiting a similar approach to the game by Cluj as Roma adopted in their tie at the Allianz Arena in Munich of playing for a no score draw. The Germans eventually broke down the Italians with a mix of composure and determination and knows his side will probably have to repeat that attitude against the Romanians tonight.

"Cluj will come here and defend and maybe hope to get a goal on the counter-attack,'' he predicted. "They are an uncomfortable opponent. Hopefully we can get an early goal.''

Cluj have been greatly underperforming lately and at the weekend they were seen falling to a new low as defeat to Vaslui brought them down to 11th in their domestic league. The Romanaian champions find themselves lagging behind the top place with a 13 point gap opened between them and the high fliers and the chances of them getting their first win in Europe tonight are looking more bleak with 2 of their most important players, Gabriel Muresan and Edimar out with injuries. They will have to rely on giant striker Lacina Traore to find some spark up front if they are going to get something from the match.

Van Gaal knows the Munich players will have their work cut out to try and contain him, saying: "He is six-foot-six and he can move around well, he is strong with the ball and he is the player everybody aims for.''






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Watch Spartak Moscow vs Chelsea UEFA champions league live stream

Tonight sees Chelsea return to the scene of one of the club's most painful defeats, 2008's Champions League final loss to Manchester United on penalties, and most painfully for Chelsea skipper John Terry, who slipped and missed the decisive penalty which gave United the chance to get back into the shootout and then win. However, Chelsea manager, Carlo Ancelotti is confident his captain won't be vexed by the painful memories of that night and will rise to the occasion in the Luzhniki stadium when Chelsea take on Spatak Moscow.

"John has great experience so I think what happened two years ago has no effect on him, he has experience,'' says Ancelotti."Everyone knows in football you can sometimes lose games. I lost a final in 2005 but you have to look forward. If you look forward with enthusiasm and character you can have revenge.Chelsea lost the final in 2008 but I don't think they will have a psychological problem with that tomorrow, it is a different story now.''

The pitch in the stadium now is made from artificial grass and Ancelotti isn't worried by it but won't name his starting eleven until they have trained using the grass. "I can say nothing about this because we haven't tried this kind of pitch,'' he went on to say."We want to try it this evening in the training session and after that we can have an opinion about this. We don't have a problem to play here, I hope, but it is different, it is one of the best artificial pitches. We don't complain about this.I can't give the line-up because we want to try the pitch before,If the players are comfortable to play there I will take the decision after the training session. We don't have important players, but we are able to play a good, physical match and I don't think we have a problem with a reaction from the game against Aston Villa. We'll put out a very good line-up tomorrow."

Spartak will have to see out the match without the services of star midfielder Alex after a thigh issue, which arose in Friday's 3-0 victory against Alania Vladikavkaz, and the Brazilian has been a key linchpin in the team of coach Valery Karpin. It is a harsh upturn of events for the Russians who are reeling in confidence after early wins in the European campaign against Marseille, 1-0 away and beating MSK Zilina 3-0 at home and have a 100% record so far and see them tied on goal difference with Chelsea in their group.

"Medical tests, which were done on Saturday, revealed a minor tear,'' confirmed Spartak coach Karpin on Alex's condition."He'll need about seven to 10 days to recover.''





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Watch Holland vs Sweden european championship live

Holland will be sweating it over the injury concerns of midfielders Wesley Sneijder and Mark Van Bommel prior to tonight's crucial match against their main rivals in Group E, Sweden, who haven't been beaten in their previous matches. Holland are racing away with 3 wins out of 3 and a win over the Scandinavians will see them sitting pretty at the top of the group.

Whilst Sweden are without any injury concerns going into the match, Holland coach Bert van Marwijk has to cross his fingers Sneijder and Van Bommel can feature in the match."Sneijder was forced to pull out of training today. I don't have any details but he couldn't finish the session,'' said Van Marwijk."Van Bommel still has a sore knee but I hope he can play.''

A win over Sweden would see them open a six point gap between the two teams but Van Marwijk knows the team will have to dig deep to turn over Sweden. "Sweden are very good opposition, we have a lot of respect for them and they have many qualities,'' he continued. Ball tempo is an important detail for us, we want to contain them but at the same time get our own passes in quickly.They are big and strong and their height advantage is also a weapon for them."

The Swedes have a 100% defensive record in the group conceding none and they have netted 8 times in their previous 2 matches. That momentum is surely going to test Holland and the Swede striker Ola Toivonen, who plays for dutch club PSV Eindhoven, has offered help to his team-mates on how to beat goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg when they come up against him. "I've had several chances against him and every time he's come out early and dived low, so if you keep your cool you can chip him or shoot high into the net,'' Toivonen explained. "He is a very good goalkeeper, unbelievably good on his feet. As long as you're looking at the ball, he'll rush out and suddenly he's there in front of you and that makes it tough to get a shot in. If you try not to look down at the ball and keep a cool head, he'll throw himself down and you can lift the ball over him."

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Watch Slovakia vs Republic Of Ireland european championship live

It's a three way tie at the moment in group B with Ireland, Russia and Slovakia all neck and neck trying to make some distance between themselves and the rest of the teams in the group, because of this each of the teams results are vital at the moment and the winner of this match will severely dent the losers morale and momentum. Ireland and Slovakia both won their first two matches but were seen slipping up in their last match both teams losing which makes the stakes really high in who outmuscles the other team in tonight's matchup in Slovakia.

Slovakia began their play in Group C by getting back to back 1-0 victories over Macedonia and a proud win in Russia. They had a shock to the system last Friday, going down 3-1 to a team not in the same league of quality as them in Armenia. That result is sure to give them a wake up call and warning to keep up their high level of performance no matter how lowly their opponents are on paper. More bad tidings for the Slovakians is that much revered Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel got a yellow card for his troubles last Friday and so will miss this match through suspension and Miroslav Stoch will also have to sit it out with an injury. Slovakian boss said of these downturns in events “Bad news, but we have to accept it,”.

Ireland also started with 2 wins a row over Armenia and Andorra before crashing to their opponents Russia last Friday in a 3-2 defeat. What was encouraging for the Irish is that they fought back from 3-0 down to pull it back to 3-2 with goals from Robbie Keane and Shane Long and gave them a chance of getting a point from the game they were unfortunately not able to take but the fighting spirit from Trappatoni's players will be sure to give him some satisfaction. For the Ireland team news is that Aston Villa defender Richard Dunne might be able to comeback from a knee injury and make an appearance in defence.

An important player for Ireland in this tie will be goalkeeper Shay Given. The Manchester City stopper has been at the heart of Ireland's winning campaigns over recent years by stopping threats on their goal at vital times in games and he will need to be sharp in Slovakia if Ireland are hoping to grab 3 points from the match.

A Slovakian player that should be handful tonight is the winger and son of the coach, Vladimir Weiss. The crafty winger can be a real magician in creating chances and has been impressing lately in matches fro Glasgow Rangers. With forward Stoch out, more should be required from the midfield and attack to provide a threat and it is Weiss' chance to take centre stage.

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Watch Scotland vs Spain european championship live

Scotland will be facing their toughest opponents of their group tonight in World and European champions Spain at Hampden Park and Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque has stated that his side will be well equipped to deal with any tactics Scotland will employ when they face each other. Scotland having adopted an ultra defensive 4-6-0 formation against the Czechs last Friday which didn't reap any rewards as the Scots were still beaten. Del Bosque also refrained from criticising his opposite number tonight Craig Levein for that approach.

"We will be very much prepared for whatever tactics Scotland adopt tomorrow night," said Del Bosque, whose side have won each of their 2 previous matches in group I, "At club level, lots of our players come up against these types of tactics week after week. We will be looking at ways to combat it on counter-attacking and looking at ways to combat it from deadball situations. It's something all the players are used to and we will be making sure we are doubly prepared. Looking at it, we've got sufficient alternative ways of playing to be able to combat various defensive formations. We've got players of different characteristics and styles who can find a way around that."

Del Bosque expects a more positive display from Scotland for the game. He said: "I think we will see a more attacking Scotland. They are at home, they are in front of their own fans and they will be driven forward by their own supporters. I think the tactics employed by the Czech Republic the other night, who had two very attacking midfielders who were getting forward at every opportunity, almost obliged them to play in that style. And so they only really attacked once they went behind."

Scottish boss Levein claims Scotland can find weak spots in the Spain team despite calling them the strongest team the national side has ever faced. "They play an attractive brand of football, they have players of a technical quality that is to be admired," Levein said. "Their recent results and competitions that they have won would lead me to believe they are possibly the best team Scotland have ever played. The thing for me is we are at home, we are going to have a complete sell-out. Our guys have watched Spain, not just against Lithuania, but on five or six occasions now. I feel there are areas that we can exploit."

"We're at home, it's really important we get the supporters right behind us and we will see what we can do. We'd like to get a goal, we would like to get two goals. It's a home match. You have always got to hope you can pick up points at home. In this group, home matches were always going to be critical. It's a game that we need to try and express ourselves in and try to win, it's as simple as that."

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Watch Italy vs Serbia european championship live

Italy will have to bounce back from their goalless draw in Genoa tonight without star Roma player Daniele De Rossi. He suffered a left thigh problem in training and won't be able to feature at all in tonight's euro 2012 qualifier. Despite Cesare Prandelli's less than great result in Belfast last Friday they still stand above everyone else in group C but they know that tonight's encounter with the former yugoslavs could be a fierce battle and will test the Italians greatly. The Serbians will be licking their wounds after the 3-1 failure to Estonia last Friday, their first home defeat since they became an independent nation from Montenegro in 2006 and the Azzuri could face a tough backlash.

Cesare Prandelli speaking before tonight's match said: "That result makes this game all the more difficult because they cannot make a mistake tomorrow, I would have preferred to have avoided a hurt Serbia," said Prandelli. "But the fact that they have lost against Estonia is a sign that we must be prepared for surprises in this qualifying round because our group is very even."

If Serbia slip up against Italy it could see the side slump to fifth place in the group C standings and give them a real blow to their morale. Serbia coach Vladimir Petrovic has stressed that he needs a much needed improved display from the team to help the team recover from last week's disappointing result with Estonia. "This was a real surprise for us and for our supporters," Petrovic said. "I believe we can improve in Italy provided we limit mistakes. I'm optimistic."

Serbian playmaker Milos Krasic is a much valued member of the Serbia team and Italy defender Domenico Criscito is well aware of the threat he poses and that the Azzuri will have to keep a tight unit if they are to shut out the attacking nouse of the player who has been a linchpin in Juventus' great performances this season in serie A. "Everybody knows Krasic's quality," said Criscito. "He is a great player, very fast. He is in good form and is a real danger. We will have to make sure we don't give him any chances."

However Serbia will have to play out the game without the help of star defender, Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic who is suspended. Italy will also probably Sampdoria duo Giampaolo Pazzini and Daniele Gastaldello given a spot in the starting lineup.

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Watch Kazakhstan vs Germany european championship live

Tonight sees a tricky trip to Kazakhstan for the Germans who will have to overcome obstacles if they are to maintain their 100% record continued with last Friday's 3-0 defeating of Turkey, in the group and see themselves on the right road to sailing confidently into the european championships in 2 years. The Germans flied out to Kazakhstan yesterday morning and had to take training at 11pm last night as that is the time tonight in which they commence battle against the nation which used to part of the Soviet Union. They also have to play on an artificial pitch at 0 degress freezing point temperatures which may present an opportunity for the group A leaders to hiccup.

German full back Philipp Lahm speaking ahead of tonight's tie says the team knows how they have to be mentally ready for any hardships that come their way during the match. "Our aim has got to be to travel there and get the three points," he told German sports channel Sport1.de. "But for that to happen, we have got to concentrate and be well prepared. The long flight and the unusual conditions there should not be an excuse - if we play as we can, then we will also win. We have made a perfect start with nine points from three matches and that is immensely important as it gives the team self-confidence, but the win against Turkey will only count for anything if we build on it in Kazakhstan," said Lahm.

It should mostly be "as you were" as far as the Germans lineup tonight with Mesut Ozil recovering from an ankle issue however Jerome Boateng and Kevin Grosskreutz have had to withdraw from the squad because of injury. Kazakhstan coach Bernd Storck however has his feet firmly on the ground about his side's chances and claims that a shock victory over the Germans would not do his side a lot of good.

"This is a great opportunity for my players to learn and develop," he said. "We are getting a lesson and demonstration at the highest level. We want to keep the game open for as long as possible and will try to create one or two problems, but there is nothing more than that in it for us. Germany are too stable. Results like the 2-1 win over Serbia in Euro 2008 qualifying make my job harder because they give people an unrealistic level of expectation. I am here to build a young side so that we can be competitive in the future."

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watch spain vs lithuania live

World Champions Spain will have to go into tonight's tie with Lithuania without star men Xavi, Fernando Torres, Cesc Fabregas and Jesus Navas so it gives the manager a selection issue to decide but also the chance to field names he wouldn't otherwise be in the position to do. The Spanish team may be carrying a knock to morale after their comprehensive defeat at the hands of Argentina last month and Vicente Del Bosque will want the world cup and euro championship holders to make sure his side are still firing on all cylinders to show they are worthy owners of the titles with a victory over eastern european side Lithuania. However the wily side don't seem to be a pushover in light of recent performances and Spain will have to watch that their crown doesn't produce shades of complacency.

Borja Valero and Aritz Aduriz have been called up to the team for the first time and it is believed that Fernando Llorente will support David Villa up front as Torres can't feature. Also Valencia winger Pablo Hernandez is in sparkling form and is the catalyst behind Valencia sitting pretty at the top of the Primera Liga the the moment. "This is the single most important moment in my career. To be in Spain's National Football Team is incredible. I feel happy, when I was 10 years old and started in Real Madrid, Del Bosque was the youth team's manager. He knows me well enough and if he called me, this means he belives I'm ready" stated Borja Valero.

Spain started handsomely in qualifying with a resounding 4-0 win over minnows Liechtenstein but Lithuania will be a far more tricky opponent as proven by their win over the more fancied Czech team in their earlier qualifying match. However the East Europeans have had their strength crippled with injuries to Giedrius Arlauskis, Andrius Velicka and Mantas Fridrikas and the Lithuania boss will have a sweat on when he considers the damage the Spaniards could do to him if his understudies to these players don't rise to the occasion.

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Watch Moldova vs Holland live

Tottenham star striker Rafael Van Der Vaart will be hoping his purple patch of form will get him in the starting eleven for Holland's trip to play Moldova today in their euro 2012 qualifier. The player has won 85 caps in his international career but has been taken off before the ends of matches on every one of his last 17 starts and this eventually got to the striker who visibly showed his anger with a tirade of verbal expletives covered by his mouth to not land the player in hot water. The ex Real Madrid player has had talks with Holland boss Bert Van Marwijk and could get his just deserves for his persistence by being placed in a holding midfield position after usual player in that position Nigel De Jong being given the cold shoulder from the squad after his x rated tackle on Newcastle player Hatem Ben Arfa which left the player with a broken leg.

"I can certainly play that position,'' said Van der Vaart."But I would just love a permanent position with the Oranje. Although you can't say that the Dutch team at the World Cup did badly without me. I can play in other positions as well," he added: "I can play on the left, in central midfield and also on the right."

Boss Van Marwijk caused an uproar this week with news of him axing Nigel De Jong in light of that challenge made on the Newcastle player. Questions marks had been raised over the player's conduct before in tackles and this latest episode has proven to be where the player has crossed the line. "Nigel has really gone too far,'' said Van Marwijk. "It is unfortunate because this issue only has losers. Ben Arfa has a double leg fracture and I have lost from two very important matches a player who is in top form."

The Oranje will have to see out the tie without players Eljero Elia, Theo Janssen and Vurnon Anita who are all ruled out because of injury and also unavailable are Hedwidges Maduro, Wilfred Bouma, Robin Van Persie and Arjen Robben. Wout Brama and Urby Emanuelson have been summoned up to deputise for these casualties.

They have won their first two qualifiers but still lag behind pace setters Sweden, who they meet next Tuesday night. The world cup finalists should make light work of the lowly Moldova and failure to beat them will prove very embarrassing for the Dutch. Moldova Coach Gavril Balint is really looking forward to the match. "It's a big honour for us to meet the World Cup runners-up," said Balint. "We have great respect for the Dutch but that doesn't mean we're eager to give them three points."

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Watch Republic Of Ireland vs Russia live

Today when Ireland play Russia will also see the tactical battle of 2 of Europe's greatest ever managers in Ireland's Giovanni Trappatoni and Russia's Dick Advocaat. Both men have had distinguised careers, Advocaat guiding Holland to the world cup quarter finals in 1994 and having lengthy stints as boss of PSV Eindhoven and Rangers and nearly 30 years of management under his belt. Trappatoni has had even more experience, first managing Milan in 1974 and going on to take charge of some of Europe's top clubs in Milan, Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Benfica, Juventus and also taking charge of the Italian national team in his time.

Trappatoni will be looking to keep up the proud record of the Irish in qualifying as they lead the pack in group B after a 100% record and wins over Armenia and Andorra. Strikers Robbie Keane and Kevin Doyle will spearhead the attack following their goals in the first 2 matches and Trappatoni will be hoping they find the net today in what is their sternest test yet in the group. He declared this week that Russia are the "top seeds" in group B and spoke resolutely about his team's preparations for the match.“We have prepared well and will not make it easy for them as we continue to lay the foundations to qualify for the European Championship finals,” Trappatoni speaking to the UEFA website.

Russia are favourites for the group but Ireland could be buoyed by Russia's shock defeat in their last qualifier at home to Slovakia. They did win their first match against Andorra and the scorer of their goals in that match, Pavel Pogrebnyak is available and possible to get another appearance to repeat his feats against Andorra on the Irish. Andrey Arshavin of Arsenal, Roman Pavlyuchenko of Tottenham Hotspur and Yuri Zhirkov of Chelsea are all other possibilities to play for Russia although Pavlyuchenko is a worry with a thigh problem. Advocaat isn't fooled by his team's top seed tag and told the UEFA website: “it would be wrong to call us favorites. We face a solid team that battled with France in the World Cup playoffs, only losing in extra time.”

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Watch Czech Republic vs Scotland live

The Scotland team will be looking for an encouraging result today against the Czechs
in Prague after a decent but modest start in their first 2 matches with a slender 2-1 defeating of minnows Liechtenstein and a goalless draw against Lithuania. If Craig Levein's side could win in Prague today it could launch a real charge towards the european championships in Poland and Ukraine in 2012. That outcome is looking more promising when you examine the Czech team's only match in the qualifiers thus far being a shock 1-0 defeat to a side which is usually a league below them in class, in Lithuania. This puts the Czechs under the kosh and they will need to turn over the Scots today if they want to be the main threat to Spain's charge in Group I of qualifying. More encouraging for Scotland is that they beat the Czechs in a friendly game earlier this year, 1-0 with a goal from midfielder Scott Brown.

Czech team news sees former Liverpool striker Milan Baros unable to feature because of a thigh problem. Also another forward in Martin Fenin has to also sit it out through injury so Lukas Magera, Vaclav Kadlec or Roman Bednar may be summoned to deputise for the players. Trusted hands Petr Cech or Chelsea and Tomas Rosicky or Arsenal, are available for selection as are Jan Polak and Jaroslav Plasil who are considered Linchpins by the Czech boss Bilek and he will be hoping these players can produce the magic that's needed to dispatch the Scots from Prague without any points.

For the Scotland team, big changes see favourite Kenny Miller dropped in favour of QPR's Jamie Mackie who gets his first international cap. Allan McGregor has overcome a thigh injury to keep goal and Alan Hutton and Steven Whittaker have been given the all clear to feature in the full back spots if chosen. David Weir and Stephen McManus will maintain the central defence and players Darren Fletcher, Gary Caldwell, Graham Dorrans, James Morrison and Steven Naismith are all available to play. Boss Craig Levein may opt for a 4-2-2-2 formation with these players and this news was delivered earlier in the week.

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watch portugal vs denmark live

Portugal have stuttered in the first 2 qualifying games in group H only picking up one point and new coach, Paulo Bento will be hoping for a far better display and 3 points on the board as they look to get their campaign off the ground against Denmark today. Denmark thus far have a 100% record with a win over Iceland in their first game. Portugal did fire four goals in the first game against Cyprus but ended up slipping up and giving them a shock point as the Cypriates came back to draw the match 4-4. The Portugese then went down 1-0 in a trip to Norway which resulted in former Manchester United assistant manager being sacked as Portugal boss. Bento will be desperate to impress and instill confidence back into his aside after a subpar initial display from the team in qualifying. He will have to make his strategies without the pair of Liedson and Miguel Veloso so midfielder Ruben Micael and Manuel Fernandes will come in to deputise.

In head to head encounters the danes haven't lost to the Portugese in their last three matches and they shocked them in the qualifiers for the 2010 world cup with a surprising 3-2 victory after Portugal were 2-1 up with minutes to go. The sides have overall met each other 10 times, with Portugal winning 6, drawing 2 and Denmark winning 2. Denmark beat Portugal in an impressive 4-2 win in 2006 and it's now 10 years since Portugal won in a friendly in 2000 which may help the Danes in the build up to today's match.

Denmark will have to play without the services of Daniel Agger, Nicklas Bendtner, Morten Skoubo and Thomas Kahlenberg and have summoned uncapped goalkeeper Jonas Lossl, forward Nicolai Jorgensen, defender Mathias Jorgensen, striker Peter Lovenkrands, and midfielders Daniel Jensen and Kasper Lorentzen as cover.

Portugal could really do with the midas touch from Cristiano Ronaldo in front of goal as he has had to go through a real scoring drought. He netted a goal in the Portugese's 7-0 demolition of North Korea at the world cup but that was his first goal for a whole year. Paulo Machado and Joao Pereira are fresh faces for the Portugal squad and will make their first appearances and midfielder Carlos Martins, Nani and striker Helder Postiga are back after a long no show in the squad.

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Watch Wales vs Bulgaria live

Today sees new Wales boss Brian Flynn take to the reigns for the first time as the caretaker manager and he will want to make a good impression as he has put his name forward as a possible choice for the position permanently. He has overtaken the managing duties after John Toshack resigned after a disappointing defeat to Montenegro in the last round of qualifying matches after a wave of pressure and criticism was heaped on him following the result. It's been 34 years since Wales last took part in a major tournament (euro championships 1976) and it will be a monstrous achievement if they can manage it with this campaign, especially after such an early setback. Brian Flynn will certainly be hoping for a positive display if he is to appointed the coaching on a permanent basis.

He will have to make plans for his squad without key striker members Craig Bellamy and Rob Earnshaw which will be causing him some anxiety in figuring out where his firepower is going to come from. Ashley Williams will be appointed captain in Bellamy's absence following a knee injury he received, and Earnshaw has a thigh issue which has ruled him out of action for Nottingham Forest's last 3 fixtures. Youngster Ryan Doble has in turn been considered to fill in for the Earnshaw. Callups have also been given to Neil Taylor and Darcy Blake who have come in to replace the injured pair of Neal Eardley and Brian Stock and Stoke defender Danny Collins is back in the international fold after falling out with former coach John Toshack 3 years ago.

Bulgaria also begin today's match with a new boss, German legend Lothar Matthaeus, who has took charge replacing Stanimar Stoilov, who left following their dismal displays against England and the embarrassing defeat to lowly Montenegro in their last qualifying matches. Matthaeus will need to instill some belief and confidence into the Balkan side before their efforts in the group become hopeless. At the moment qualifying for the tournament that awaits in Poland and Ukraine in 2 years time looks like a very far fetched fantasy. They have 6 games to transform their luck and if they fail to win in Cardiff it could be all over for the team.

Their main frailty appears to be in attack as in poast matches teh strikers that have been deployed haven't tucked away chances that have been presented to them, something former boss Stoilov made abundantly clear after the defeats. This hasn't been helped by the international retirement of star Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov and the forwards Stoilov had at his disposal couldn't produce the magic that was needed to get them points. That will have to remedied today in some shape or form by the coach.

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Watch Northern Ireland vs Italy live

Roma striker Marco Borriello will be at the forefront of the Italian team in attack today when they face Northern Ireland at Windsor Park in their tricky european championship qualifying tie. Italian manager Cesare Prandelli has stood firm on the striker leading the attack in the match today. The 28 year old has been opted for in place of players such as Giampaolo Pazzini and Giuseppe Rossi and will play alongside Antonio Cassano and Simone Pepe in a 4-3-3 formation that the Azzurri are used to playing in.

"He (Borriello) is the right striker for tomorrow's game," said coach Prandelli."He also gives us depth in manoeuvres." The Italians are leading the charge in group C with convincing wins over Estonia and the Faroe Islands and boss Prandelli values every point achieved on their road to qualification. "The games against Northern Ireland and Serbia are crucial to qualify for Euro 2012," he said."I expect a constant improvement from my team and something extra than with respect to our previous games. I demand more because the physical condition of the team is good and it's growing. I want the three points against Northern Ireland but I want that result to be accompanied by good play, as always."

Prandelli won't be resting on any laurels despite Italy's clear advantage over Northern Ireland in skill and technical ability and know the team have produced shocks over recent years embarassing the likes of Spain and England with battling displays. "They have taken important results at home," said Prandelli. "But we believe we can play better football than them even if it's in a difficult stadium."

Midfielder Stefano Mauri is believed to be in the first 11 and back after last featuring for the italians 3 years ago. He'll be joined by messers Andrea Pirlo and Daniele De Rossi and Bologna's Emiliano Viviano has been chosen to guard the net.

Northern Ireland manager Nigel Worthington believes David Healy will be back and fit and has the ability to end his lean spell of scoring by today against the Italians. Healy has struggled to find top flight match fitness and has had to battle it out with the Sunderland Reserves but Worthington has noticed a big improvement in the striker who hasn't scored in seven qualifying games, and he thinks he'll be ready to threaten the world's best defences again. Worthington said: "David has had a lean time, like all strikers do, but I am working with him and he can still finish. It is really about confidence and self-belief.I have seen a difference in David this week and in the past month compared to the last two years. He is sharp and bright and around goal he looks as though he is ready to sniff something out like he did in the past. So he has got my full backing."

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Watch Germany vs Turkey live european championship

Germany face Turkey in the european championship qualifiers today and here's a report of the match the last time the sides met in this competition in the last euro championships in the semi final.

Germany 3 Turkey 2
European championship 2008 Semi Final 25th June 2008

Germany defender Philip Lahm hit a last gasp 90th minute goal to send Germany to the final of euro 2008 and their chance of regaining the last trophy they won, at euro 96, 12 years ago. Luckless Turkey were sent packing after giving a spirited tussle to the Germans and making them have to dig deep to gain victory.

The turks were having to field a fairly weakened team with suspensions and injuries and even with their heroic comeback wins in their last 3 matches at the euro championships it still looked a tall order for them to defeat the 3 time winners of the competition, twice in 1972 and 1980 as West Germany and once as a united German team at euro 96. However Turkey were far the stronger outfit as they created many opportunities in the opening stages and caused German keeper Jens Lehmann some real anxiety. They managed to take the lead with Ugur Boral's opener in the 22nd minute after Turkish player Kazim-Richards sent in a cross which ended up looping onto the bar and Boral was on hand to dispatch the rebound.

They couldn't maintain the advantage for long however as Germany's Bastian Schweinsteiger levelled things 5 minutes after the Turkey struck after Lukas Podolski sent a low cross into the area and Schweinsteiger stoke in behind the defenders to divert the ball into the corner of the net past a helpless Rustu Recber.

Germany managed to claw back some power in the second half and made a much more evenly balanced tie and after much exchange German Striker Miroslav Klose fired Germany ahead in the 79th minute after he came to take a lofted cross from Philip Lahm and loop the header into the Turkey net. Many other sides would have folded after such a heavy knock so late on in the match but as Turkey have proved in this competition they are made of much sterner stuff after their 3 fightbacks in their last 3 matches.

They went on to grab another goal to level things minutes later as Sabri crossed low into the German box and strike Semih prodded the ball past keeper Lehmann at his near post to make it all square and the victor of the match anyone's guess. The game looked to be heading into extra time but up popped the pint sized full back Lahm to fire home the winner in the dying seconds to send Germany to another final where they will meet Spain Or Russia.

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watch inter milan vs juventus live online

Serie A leaders Inter Milan play host to Juventus today and both sides will be confident after encouraging performances and results in europe midweek. Internazionale chalked up their first win of their champions league campaign trouncing Werder Bremen 4-0 and Juventus played well to earn a respectable draw at Manchester City in the europa league.

Inter boss Rafael Benitez was beaming with pride after their win over Bremen and will want to continue the trend in performances as they carry on the domestic campaign today. Talking about the european result he said: "It was the confirmation of the great play that the team has displayed so far. It was important for us to win, not only to get our European campaign on track but also to bounce back from our first defeat of the season at Roma. We now have to see if we can recover some injured players in view of the game against Juventus. I think Juve are a good side, they do not fear us and I expect a great game."

Inter are still weakened without names such as Javier Zanetti, Thiago Motta and Marco Materazzi who are all stricken with injury but the "Nerazzurri" are looking to help recover Argentine striker Diego Milito, who was crocked in the 1-0 loss to Roma in the last round of Serie A matches. As he is unlikely to play, Samuel Eto will be aiming to continue his purple patch of hot form and will probably be aided up front with Goran Pandev and Wesley Sneijder. Eto scored a hat-trick against Bremen in europe and is joint top scorer in Serie A at the minute.

Juve are in confident mood also with fine displays against Manchester City and a roaring 4-2 victory against Cagliari in the last round of matches. Juventus coach Del Neri speaking before the match said: "I am satisfied with how my team performed. Everybody thought we would lose this game but my players showed a lot of focus. I am calm ahead of the match at Inter. I believe my players can do well."

This match will be streamed on various sites over the internet. One of these sites will be the one below.
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Watch Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich live online

Bayern Munich will be looking to make serious amends for a poor start to the season which sees them languishing in 11th place with 7 points between them and the second place Dortmund. If they fail to win and close the gap it leaves them with a mountain to climb in order to retain their Bundesliga title next May. Speaking ahead of the match with Dortmund today, Bayern director of sport Christian Nerlinger expresses the critical nature and stresses how important it will be in shaping their season.

Speaking on their official website he said: "Dortmund is a milestone for us.It is an absolutely crucial game, that is for sure. We have got to get going now. This game comes at just the right time for us to move up a gear. Last year, the team was able to show its true colours in situations like this one." Bayern recorded a 5-1 trouncing in Dortmund roughly a year ago to lift another miserable lowly predicament in the league and in turn shaped their march to lifting their domestic crown.

Dortmund are on a roll in the league with 5 consecutive wins although they were turned over 1-0 at home to Sevilla midweek which could be an encouraging sign for Bayern. Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp states that the defeat to Sevilla midweek was maybe a blessing in disguise. "The lads are obviously very disappointed, but also proud and impressed with their own performances. For our general development, it is better to play like we played than to play badly and somehow win the game 1-0.''

Dortmund are hoping Patrick Owomoyela and Mario Gotze can shake off knocks they suffered midweek in the europa league but apart from that he is at full strength. Bayern coach Louis van Gaal should be fine to choose from the exact squad he had to face Basel in the champions league, aside from the long term layoffs Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben.

This match will be streamed on various sites across the internet. One of these sites will be the one below.




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