Taiwanese TV station recreates Wayne Rooney scandal
Wayne Rooney is the latest scandalised public figure to get the Taiwanese cartoon news treatment following revelations of his sex shame with hooker Jenny Thompson.
According to The Mirror, the video firm rose to prominence last year when their reimagining of Tiger Woods' dramatic car crash drew nearly 3 million views on YouTube.
The company now produces computer-animated dramatisations of news events like Lindsay Lohan's stint in jail - and Rooney is their latest victim.
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According to The Mirror, the video firm rose to prominence last year when their reimagining of Tiger Woods' dramatic car crash drew nearly 3 million views on YouTube.
The company now produces computer-animated dramatisations of news events like Lindsay Lohan's stint in jail - and Rooney is their latest victim.
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Becks boys in talks with Snoop Dogg over Christmas recording
American rapper Snoop Dogg wants soccer star pal David Beckham and his three kids to record a Christmas recording with his own sons Cordell, 12, and Corde, 15.
Speaking at 7-Eleven's Cup for the Cause charity campaign, Snoop said: "We're in talks for that. I'm waiting for Becks to get back in town.
"I'm about the kids. You got his kids and my kids, and we bring them together.
"Beckham's three boys have never known anything but the spotlight since they were born, and if they have the talent of their mum and dad then they are destined for big things.
"Corde and Cordell really want to get into the record industry, and if they formed a group with the Beckham boys I think they could be really successful.
"I think probably only Brooklyn is old enough to be in the group yet, but as soon as Romeo and Cruz are old enough they can join the mix, man.
"I have already talked with Bow Wow and Soulja Boy about adding vocals to their single and they are in. With me, David and Victoria behind them, they would be unstoppable.
"I don't want to rush things, but I can't see why their first single should not be out by Christmas."
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Speaking at 7-Eleven's Cup for the Cause charity campaign, Snoop said: "We're in talks for that. I'm waiting for Becks to get back in town.
"I'm about the kids. You got his kids and my kids, and we bring them together.
"Beckham's three boys have never known anything but the spotlight since they were born, and if they have the talent of their mum and dad then they are destined for big things.
"Corde and Cordell really want to get into the record industry, and if they formed a group with the Beckham boys I think they could be really successful.
"I think probably only Brooklyn is old enough to be in the group yet, but as soon as Romeo and Cruz are old enough they can join the mix, man.
"I have already talked with Bow Wow and Soulja Boy about adding vocals to their single and they are in. With me, David and Victoria behind them, they would be unstoppable.
"I don't want to rush things, but I can't see why their first single should not be out by Christmas."
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Massimo Moratti: Kaká to Inter is wonderful idea, but...
Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has dismissed reports suggested they are planning to snare Kaká from Real Madrid in an attempt to trump city rivals AC Milan.
Il Corriere dello Sport claimed on Wednesday that the Nerazzurri were devising a plan to cock a snook at Milan by bringing Kaká back to the San Siro in January.
Inter are said to be growing tired of Milan signing up players who were once icons in blue and black like Christian Vieri, Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimović.
And the newspaper understood Inter would try and get their revenge by signing Kaká who was idolised in his five years with the Rossoneri, although Inter supremo Moratti refused to get drawn into speculation.
When asked about the Kaká rumours, Moratti told the press: "It could be a wonderful idea but it did not come from us. I also read it in the paper."
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Il Corriere dello Sport claimed on Wednesday that the Nerazzurri were devising a plan to cock a snook at Milan by bringing Kaká back to the San Siro in January.
Inter are said to be growing tired of Milan signing up players who were once icons in blue and black like Christian Vieri, Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimović.
And the newspaper understood Inter would try and get their revenge by signing Kaká who was idolised in his five years with the Rossoneri, although Inter supremo Moratti refused to get drawn into speculation.
When asked about the Kaká rumours, Moratti told the press: "It could be a wonderful idea but it did not come from us. I also read it in the paper."
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Barcelona in Cesc Fàbregas' DNA, says Thomas Vermaelen
Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen has explained how team-mate Cesc Fàbregas belongs to Barcelona, it is in his DNA and something which simply cannot be forgotten.
Fàbregas was vehemently pursued by Barcelona during the summer with the Catalan giants making two offers for the 23-year-old that were dismissed by the Arsenal.
After three months of speculation, the Gunners captain eventually agreed to stay at the Emirates for the coming season, though he did admit that a move had been a tempting prospect.
And Vermaelen revealed that even though Fàbregas informed his team-mates of his desire to move back to Spain, he will be fully focused on the Arsenal cause this season.
Vermaelen told Talksport: "Cesc carries Barcelona in the heart, in his DNA - therefore it is impossible for him to forget about them.
"He was determined to go to Barça last summer, he more or less confessed it in the dressing room. But that is past history.
"Now he is 100 per cent ready to put his all in to a great season with Arsenal."
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Fàbregas was vehemently pursued by Barcelona during the summer with the Catalan giants making two offers for the 23-year-old that were dismissed by the Arsenal.
After three months of speculation, the Gunners captain eventually agreed to stay at the Emirates for the coming season, though he did admit that a move had been a tempting prospect.
And Vermaelen revealed that even though Fàbregas informed his team-mates of his desire to move back to Spain, he will be fully focused on the Arsenal cause this season.
Vermaelen told Talksport: "Cesc carries Barcelona in the heart, in his DNA - therefore it is impossible for him to forget about them.
"He was determined to go to Barça last summer, he more or less confessed it in the dressing room. But that is past history.
"Now he is 100 per cent ready to put his all in to a great season with Arsenal."
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- Cesc Fábregas: I had to stay at Arsenal
- Arsène Wenger: Fábregas was torn between Arsenal & Barcelona
- The Cesc Fábregas transfer saga finally over!
- Cesc Fàbregas cries during his tribute in Barcelona
- Fàbregas: My internal struggle with Barça interest
- Puyol accuses Arsenal of not showing respect to Fàbregas
- Arsène Wenger's fury over Cesc Fábregas saga
- Messi & Busquets wants Fàbregas deal
- Andrés Iniesta wants Barcelona to bring Cesc Fàbregas home
- Fàbregas will certainly leave Arsenal, says Martin Keown
- Former Arsenal manager blasts Cesc Fàbregas
- Joan Laporta: Cesc Fàbregas has Barcelona DNA
- Piqué: Cesc will end up wearing Barcelona shirt
Pepe Reina laments on Javier Mascherano sale
Pepe Reina admits Liverpool have been left with a "big problem" following the departure of Javier Mascherano to Barcelona.
The tough-tackling midfielder sealed a dream move to Barcelona last week, bringing to an end a three-and-a-half year stay at Anfield in which he had proved to be a vital cog in the Liverpool side.
And Reina believes while Barcelona fans are looking forward to seeing him at the Camp Nou, Liverpool are left figuring out how to regroup.
Speaking to El Mundo Deportivo, the shot stopper said: "The departure of Mascherano is a big problem for Liverpool because he is one of the best players of his type on the pitch.
"Javier is very competitive player, very Argentine, who always gives everything when you are on the field.
"He is a footballer who works, works and works. Also, personally, he is a good person even if he is quiet, somewhat introverted.
"He will not create any problem in Barcelona. He could always be counted on, never has generated controversy."
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The tough-tackling midfielder sealed a dream move to Barcelona last week, bringing to an end a three-and-a-half year stay at Anfield in which he had proved to be a vital cog in the Liverpool side.
And Reina believes while Barcelona fans are looking forward to seeing him at the Camp Nou, Liverpool are left figuring out how to regroup.
Speaking to El Mundo Deportivo, the shot stopper said: "The departure of Mascherano is a big problem for Liverpool because he is one of the best players of his type on the pitch.
"Javier is very competitive player, very Argentine, who always gives everything when you are on the field.
"He is a footballer who works, works and works. Also, personally, he is a good person even if he is quiet, somewhat introverted.
"He will not create any problem in Barcelona. He could always be counted on, never has generated controversy."
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AC Milan don't rule out Mario Balotelli interest
AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has admitted that he would like to sign Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli one day in the future.
The Rossoneri were heavily inked with the fiery youngster all summer, until he eventually moved to City last month in a £22.5 million transfer.
"Anything is possible now that he doesn't play for Inter," Galliani told the press.
"We have a good relationship with (Balotelli's agent) Mino Raiola.
"We have never spoken about Balotelli, but I won't deny that one day I would like to see him in a Milan jersey."
It's no secret that Balotelli is a Milan fan, having been pictured at the San Siro watching their games on several occasions.
The 20-year-old was even convinced to pull on a Milan shirt on a satirical TV show earlier this year, drawing criticism from Inter fans.
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The Rossoneri were heavily inked with the fiery youngster all summer, until he eventually moved to City last month in a £22.5 million transfer.
"Anything is possible now that he doesn't play for Inter," Galliani told the press.
"We have a good relationship with (Balotelli's agent) Mino Raiola.
"We have never spoken about Balotelli, but I won't deny that one day I would like to see him in a Milan jersey."
It's no secret that Balotelli is a Milan fan, having been pictured at the San Siro watching their games on several occasions.
The 20-year-old was even convinced to pull on a Milan shirt on a satirical TV show earlier this year, drawing criticism from Inter fans.
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Aston Villa confirm Gérard Houllier appointment
Experienced French tactician Gérard Houllier was confirmed on Wednesday night as the new manager of Aston Villa.
The 63-year-old penned a three-year contract at Villa Park to succeed Martin O'Neill who walked out on the club just five days before the start of the Premier League season.
Houllier stepped down from his role as technical director to the French Football Federation (FFF) yesterday to take up the Villa post.
"I am very happy and proud to join this great and historic club," the ex-Liverpool boss, in a media statement, said.
"It was a very difficult decision for me to leave the FFF, but I could not turn down the opportunity to manage a club whose approach, both on and off the pitch, I have long admired.
"Aston Villa is one of England's biggest clubs and has an amazing set of fans.
"This is a tremendous challenge and one I am very much looking forward to taking on."
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The 63-year-old penned a three-year contract at Villa Park to succeed Martin O'Neill who walked out on the club just five days before the start of the Premier League season.
Houllier stepped down from his role as technical director to the French Football Federation (FFF) yesterday to take up the Villa post.
"I am very happy and proud to join this great and historic club," the ex-Liverpool boss, in a media statement, said.
"It was a very difficult decision for me to leave the FFF, but I could not turn down the opportunity to manage a club whose approach, both on and off the pitch, I have long admired.
"Aston Villa is one of England's biggest clubs and has an amazing set of fans.
"This is a tremendous challenge and one I am very much looking forward to taking on."
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Giuseppe Rossi keen to join 'any club' in Italy
Villarreal striker Giuseppe Rossi does not disguise his desire to return to Italy as he offers himself to Serie A clubs.
A loan spell at Parma in 2007 is the only time the 23-year-old has spent in his homeland during the course of his professional career.
"I hope to return to Italy in January," Rossi told tuttomercatoweb.
"For me any club will do. We’ll see how things pan out in the future.
"The important thing is I am hoping to return to Serie A as soon as possible."
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A loan spell at Parma in 2007 is the only time the 23-year-old has spent in his homeland during the course of his professional career.
"I hope to return to Italy in January," Rossi told tuttomercatoweb.
"For me any club will do. We’ll see how things pan out in the future.
"The important thing is I am hoping to return to Serie A as soon as possible."
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Euro 2012 qualifier: Switzerland 1-3 England
England continued their perfect start to life in their Euro 2012 qualifying as goals from Wayne Rooney, Adam Johnson and Darren Bent defeated Switzerland 3-1 in Basel.
Rooney, playing despite allegations about his private life, opened the scoring on 10 minutes, slotting home Glen Johnson's pass for his first England goal in a year.
Substitute Johnson rounded goalkeeper Diego Benaglio to score the second in the 69th minute, four minutes after Swiss right back Stephan Lichtsteiner was ejected for fouling James Milner.
Switzerland pulled a goal back through Xherdan Shaqiri on 71 minutes, but England substitute Bent sealed the game with a clinical low shot two minutes from time.
Lineups:
Switzerland: Diego Benaglio; Stephan Lichtsteiner, Steve von Bergen, Stéphane Grichting, Reto Ziegler; Xavier Margairaz (Xherdan Shaqiri, 46), Gokhan Inler, Pirmin Schwegler (Moreno Costanzo, 84), David Degen (Marco Streller, 64); Alex Frei, Eren Derdiyok
England: Joe Hart; Glen Johnson, Phil Jagielka, Joleon Lescott, Ashley Cole; Theo Walcott (Adam Johnson, 13), Steven Gerrard, Gareth Barry, James Milner; Jermain Defoe (Darren Bent, 70), Wayne Rooney (Shaun Wright-Phillips, 79)
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Rooney, playing despite allegations about his private life, opened the scoring on 10 minutes, slotting home Glen Johnson's pass for his first England goal in a year.
Substitute Johnson rounded goalkeeper Diego Benaglio to score the second in the 69th minute, four minutes after Swiss right back Stephan Lichtsteiner was ejected for fouling James Milner.
Switzerland pulled a goal back through Xherdan Shaqiri on 71 minutes, but England substitute Bent sealed the game with a clinical low shot two minutes from time.
Lineups:
Switzerland: Diego Benaglio; Stephan Lichtsteiner, Steve von Bergen, Stéphane Grichting, Reto Ziegler; Xavier Margairaz (Xherdan Shaqiri, 46), Gokhan Inler, Pirmin Schwegler (Moreno Costanzo, 84), David Degen (Marco Streller, 64); Alex Frei, Eren Derdiyok
England: Joe Hart; Glen Johnson, Phil Jagielka, Joleon Lescott, Ashley Cole; Theo Walcott (Adam Johnson, 13), Steven Gerrard, Gareth Barry, James Milner; Jermain Defoe (Darren Bent, 70), Wayne Rooney (Shaun Wright-Phillips, 79)
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Euro 2012 qualifier: Germany 6-1 Azerbaijan
Germany kept up their good start in Euro 2012 qualifying as they routed Azerbaijan 6-1 in Cologne.
Defender Heiko Westermann opened the scoring after 28th minutes, Lukas Podolski doubled the lead in the 45th minute and Miroslav Klose made it three in first-half injury time.
Rashad Sadygov put through his own net for 4-0 in the 53rd minute before Azerbaijan found the right net four minutes later through a huge mistake by Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who fumbled a corner from Vagif Javadov.
Holder Badstuber's header on 86 minutes made it 5-1 before a late second from Klose gave the score line further gloss.
Lineups:
Germany: Manuel Neuer; Sascha Riether, Per Mertesacker (Heiko Westermann, 11), Holger Badstuber, Philipp Lahm; Sami Khedira, Bastian Schweinsteiger (Cacau, 78); Thomas Müller (Marko Marin, 62), Mesut Özil, Lukas Podolski, Miroslav Klose
Azerbaijan: Kamran Agayev; Maksim Medvedev, Rashad Sadygov, Saşa Yunisoğlu (Vurgun Huseynov, 56), Elnur Allahverdiyev, Mahir Shukurov; Rail Melikov, Aleksandr Chertoganov (Rashad Sadyqov, 64), Samir Abbasov; Vugar Nadyrov (Araz Abdullayev, 86), Vagif Javadov
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Defender Heiko Westermann opened the scoring after 28th minutes, Lukas Podolski doubled the lead in the 45th minute and Miroslav Klose made it three in first-half injury time.
Rashad Sadygov put through his own net for 4-0 in the 53rd minute before Azerbaijan found the right net four minutes later through a huge mistake by Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who fumbled a corner from Vagif Javadov.
Holder Badstuber's header on 86 minutes made it 5-1 before a late second from Klose gave the score line further gloss.
Lineups:
Germany: Manuel Neuer; Sascha Riether, Per Mertesacker (Heiko Westermann, 11), Holger Badstuber, Philipp Lahm; Sami Khedira, Bastian Schweinsteiger (Cacau, 78); Thomas Müller (Marko Marin, 62), Mesut Özil, Lukas Podolski, Miroslav Klose
Azerbaijan: Kamran Agayev; Maksim Medvedev, Rashad Sadygov, Saşa Yunisoğlu (Vurgun Huseynov, 56), Elnur Allahverdiyev, Mahir Shukurov; Rail Melikov, Aleksandr Chertoganov (Rashad Sadyqov, 64), Samir Abbasov; Vugar Nadyrov (Araz Abdullayev, 86), Vagif Javadov
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Euro 2012 qualifier: Italy 5-0 Faroe Islands
Italy continued their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign with another win, seeing off the Faroe Islands with a comprehensive 5-0 win in Florence.
At his home ground, Fiorentina's Alberto Gilardino opened the scoring in the 11th minute, meeting a corner from Andrea Pirlo with a header by the far post.
Daniele De Rossi doubled the lead in the 22nd minute with a shot from the center of the penalty area before Antonio Cassano put Italy 3-0 ahead five minutes later.
Substitute Fabio Quagliarella added the fourth from close range on 81 minutes and Pirlo completed the rout with a well-taken free-kick in the 90th minute.
Lineups:
Italy: Emiliano Viviano; Lorenzo De Silvestri, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini, Luca Antonelli; Daniele De Rossi (Angelo Palombo, 75), Riccardo Montolivo, Andrea Pirlo; Antonio Cassano, Alberto Gilardino (Giampaolo Pazzini, 59), Giuseppe Rossi (Fabio Quagliarella, 59)
Faroe Islands: Gunnar Nielsen; Bogi Løkin (Jónas Tór Næs, 74), Hendrik Rubeksen, Atli Gregersen, Egil á Bø; Johan Troest Davidsen, Fróði Benjaminsen, Jann Ingi Petersen, Christian Mouritsen (Christian Holst, 74), Símun Samuelsen; Jóan Símun Edmundsson (Daniel Udsen, 88)
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At his home ground, Fiorentina's Alberto Gilardino opened the scoring in the 11th minute, meeting a corner from Andrea Pirlo with a header by the far post.
Daniele De Rossi doubled the lead in the 22nd minute with a shot from the center of the penalty area before Antonio Cassano put Italy 3-0 ahead five minutes later.
Substitute Fabio Quagliarella added the fourth from close range on 81 minutes and Pirlo completed the rout with a well-taken free-kick in the 90th minute.
Lineups:
Italy: Emiliano Viviano; Lorenzo De Silvestri, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini, Luca Antonelli; Daniele De Rossi (Angelo Palombo, 75), Riccardo Montolivo, Andrea Pirlo; Antonio Cassano, Alberto Gilardino (Giampaolo Pazzini, 59), Giuseppe Rossi (Fabio Quagliarella, 59)
Faroe Islands: Gunnar Nielsen; Bogi Løkin (Jónas Tór Næs, 74), Hendrik Rubeksen, Atli Gregersen, Egil á Bø; Johan Troest Davidsen, Fróði Benjaminsen, Jann Ingi Petersen, Christian Mouritsen (Christian Holst, 74), Símun Samuelsen; Jóan Símun Edmundsson (Daniel Udsen, 88)
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Euro 2012 qualifier: Bosnia 0-2 France
France recovered from their disastrous start to 2012 European Championship qualifying with a 2-0 victory away to Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Laurent Blanc's men broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute when Karim Benzema collected Gaël Clichy's precise pass and turned down a defender before slotting home with a left-footed powerful strike.
Florent Malouda doubled the lead six minutes later after being set up by Mathieu Valbuena from the penalty spot.
Lineups:
Bosnia-Herzegovina: Kenan Hasagić; Mensur Mujdža, Safet Nadarević, Emir Spahić, Senad Lulić; Miralem Pjanić, Elvir Rahimić (Ermin Zec, 74), Senijad Ibričić; Zvjezdan Misimović; Edin Džeko, Vedad Ibišević (Sanel Jahić, 75)
France: Hugo Lloris; Bacary Sagna, Adil Rami, Philippe Mexès, Gaël Clichy; Yann M'Vila, Alou Diarra, Abou Diaby, Mathieu Valbuena, Florent Malouda (Brice Matuidi, 80); Karim Benzema
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Laurent Blanc's men broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute when Karim Benzema collected Gaël Clichy's precise pass and turned down a defender before slotting home with a left-footed powerful strike.
Florent Malouda doubled the lead six minutes later after being set up by Mathieu Valbuena from the penalty spot.
Lineups:
Bosnia-Herzegovina: Kenan Hasagić; Mensur Mujdža, Safet Nadarević, Emir Spahić, Senad Lulić; Miralem Pjanić, Elvir Rahimić (Ermin Zec, 74), Senijad Ibričić; Zvjezdan Misimović; Edin Džeko, Vedad Ibišević (Sanel Jahić, 75)
France: Hugo Lloris; Bacary Sagna, Adil Rami, Philippe Mexès, Gaël Clichy; Yann M'Vila, Alou Diarra, Abou Diaby, Mathieu Valbuena, Florent Malouda (Brice Matuidi, 80); Karim Benzema
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Euro 2012 qualifier: Norway 1-0 Portugal
Portugal are still not over their World Cup woes as they were beaten 1-0 at Norway in Euro 2012 qualifying.
The only goal of the match came came in the 21st minute when Erik Huseklepp slotted home into an empty net after Portugal keeper Eduardo lost the ball in a challenge from John Carew.
Lineups:
Norway: Jon Knudsen; Tom Høgli, Kjetil Wæhler (Vadim Demidov, 28), Brede Hangeland, Espen Ruud; Bjorn Helge Riise, Henning Hauger, Christian Grindheim (Ruben Yttergård Jenssen, 86); Erik Huseklepp, Morten Gamst Pedersen; John Carew (Mohammed Abdellaoue, 38)
Portugal: Eduardo; Bruno Alves, Miguel Veloso, Ricardo Carvalho, Sílvio; Manuel Fernandes, Raul Meireles; Ricardo Quaresma (Liédson, 83), Tiago (Danny, 72), Nani; Hugo Almeida
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The only goal of the match came came in the 21st minute when Erik Huseklepp slotted home into an empty net after Portugal keeper Eduardo lost the ball in a challenge from John Carew.
Lineups:
Norway: Jon Knudsen; Tom Høgli, Kjetil Wæhler (Vadim Demidov, 28), Brede Hangeland, Espen Ruud; Bjorn Helge Riise, Henning Hauger, Christian Grindheim (Ruben Yttergård Jenssen, 86); Erik Huseklepp, Morten Gamst Pedersen; John Carew (Mohammed Abdellaoue, 38)
Portugal: Eduardo; Bruno Alves, Miguel Veloso, Ricardo Carvalho, Sílvio; Manuel Fernandes, Raul Meireles; Ricardo Quaresma (Liédson, 83), Tiago (Danny, 72), Nani; Hugo Almeida
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Liverpool missed out on Mario Gómez
Bayern Munich striker Mario Gómez claims he was on the verge of signing for Liverpool before his current club put an end to a prospective loan deal.
The 25-year-old was heading to Anfield on loan with a view to a £20 million permanent deal in the summer, but the deal fell through after the Bavarian giants pulled the plug on the deal at the last minute.
"I have said that if I leave Bayern I will go abroad," Gómez told Bild newspaper.
"Then came this interesting offer from Liverpool. I took the loan offer seriously and discussed it with my family and girlfriend because I just want to play.
"But Bayern gave me the impression that they see a future for me. And therefore a change was not an issue anymore."
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The 25-year-old was heading to Anfield on loan with a view to a £20 million permanent deal in the summer, but the deal fell through after the Bavarian giants pulled the plug on the deal at the last minute.
"I have said that if I leave Bayern I will go abroad," Gómez told Bild newspaper.
"Then came this interesting offer from Liverpool. I took the loan offer seriously and discussed it with my family and girlfriend because I just want to play.
"But Bayern gave me the impression that they see a future for me. And therefore a change was not an issue anymore."
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Antonio Cassano happy at Sampdoria
Sampdoria forward Antonio Cassano has thanked the club and former sporting director Giuseppe Marotta for a life changing effect on his development.
Previously considered something of a loose cannon, Cassano has settled down in recent seasons, and the 28-year-old believes his game has improved as a result.
Speaking at Italy's Coverciano training ground, Cassano said: "Being in Genoa changed me. I am a lot happier and calmer in Genoa.
"At Samp I found a staff that was built around me by Marotta who helped me grow and I continue to do so even now that he has gone."
The former Real Madrid and AS Roma player added: "In my head football was a succession of tricks and touches. I thought about being the best of all-time and that I didn’t need to care about the team.
"Instead there was only one player who could win everything playing on his own: Diego Maradona.
"Anyway, I have learnt to think together with the team and I feel much stronger than before because I have another 10 people who play with me."
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Previously considered something of a loose cannon, Cassano has settled down in recent seasons, and the 28-year-old believes his game has improved as a result.
Speaking at Italy's Coverciano training ground, Cassano said: "Being in Genoa changed me. I am a lot happier and calmer in Genoa.
"At Samp I found a staff that was built around me by Marotta who helped me grow and I continue to do so even now that he has gone."
The former Real Madrid and AS Roma player added: "In my head football was a succession of tricks and touches. I thought about being the best of all-time and that I didn’t need to care about the team.
"Instead there was only one player who could win everything playing on his own: Diego Maradona.
"Anyway, I have learnt to think together with the team and I feel much stronger than before because I have another 10 people who play with me."
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Best Goals of Week #1 September 2010
Here are the best goals from week #1 September 2010, courtesy of TVGOLO.com.
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| Goal#1 | Andrés Iniesta (Barcelona) | vs Racing Santander |
| Goal#2 | Jean Calvé (Sheffield United) | vs Preston North End |
| Goal#3 | Zé Eduardo (Santos) | vs Goiás |
| Goal#4 | Salva Sevilla (Real Betis) | vs Granada |
| Goal#5 | Dimitar Berbatov (Manchester United) | vs West Ham |
| Goal#6 | Giandomenico Mesto (Genoa) | vs Udinese |
| Goal#7 | Jorginho (Paços de Ferreira) | vs Portimonense |
| Goal#8 | Choy González (Arsenal de Sarandí) | vs Independiente |
| Goal#9 | Marcos Flores (Adelaide United) | vs North Queensland Fury |
| Goal#10 | Simão Sabrosa (Atlético Madrid) | vs Sporting Gijón |
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Scientists solve mystery behind Roberto Carlos magical free-kick
Thirteen years after Roberto Carlos stunned onlookers with his famous free-kick that seemed to defy the law of physics, scientists have finally worked out just how he did it.
In what many people regard as the best free-kick ever, the Brazilian fired home a long-distance free-kick against France in 1997 which forced a ball-boy to duck, thinking it was going to hit him before it curled back in past a motionless Fabian Barthez.
Some had attributed it to accuracy, others called it a fluke, but researchers say it can all be explained by science.
Dr Cristophe Clanet and his colleague David Quere, researchers from École Polytechnique in Paris, were looking at the trajectory of bullets when they made their sporting discovery.
Using a small pistol to fire bullets into water at the speed of 100 km/h - approximately the speed of Carlos' shot - they discovered that the path of a sphere when it spins is actually a spiral.
Carlos is known to kick hard and the ball's speed practically canceled out gravity, allowing the spiral to come into play.
The scientists proved that the crucial aspect of the wonder strike was the distance the ball had to travel before reaching the goal as this directly related to how much of the spiral could be seen.
Because Carlos was 35m (115ft) from the goal when he kicked the ball, more of this spiral trajectory was visible.
If Carlos had been any closer, the ball would have missed the goal before it had a chance to curve around.
And if he had kicked the ball from any farther back, the ball might have curved too much and shot past the goalposts, or hit the ground and lost the spiral.
"When shot from a large enough distance, and with enough power to keep an appreciable velocity as approaching the goal, the ball can have an unexpected trajectory," the researchers wrote in the New Journal of Physics.
"Carlos' kick started with a classical circular trajectory but suddenly bent in a spectacular way and came back to the goal, although it looked out of the target a small moment earlier.
"People often noticed that Carlos' free kick had been shot from a remarkably long distance; we show in our paper that this is not a coincidence, but a necessary condition for generating a spiral trajectory."
So did Carlos know what he was doing when he made that kick, or was it purely accidental?
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In what many people regard as the best free-kick ever, the Brazilian fired home a long-distance free-kick against France in 1997 which forced a ball-boy to duck, thinking it was going to hit him before it curled back in past a motionless Fabian Barthez.
Some had attributed it to accuracy, others called it a fluke, but researchers say it can all be explained by science.
Dr Cristophe Clanet and his colleague David Quere, researchers from École Polytechnique in Paris, were looking at the trajectory of bullets when they made their sporting discovery.
Using a small pistol to fire bullets into water at the speed of 100 km/h - approximately the speed of Carlos' shot - they discovered that the path of a sphere when it spins is actually a spiral.
Carlos is known to kick hard and the ball's speed practically canceled out gravity, allowing the spiral to come into play.
The scientists proved that the crucial aspect of the wonder strike was the distance the ball had to travel before reaching the goal as this directly related to how much of the spiral could be seen.
Because Carlos was 35m (115ft) from the goal when he kicked the ball, more of this spiral trajectory was visible.
If Carlos had been any closer, the ball would have missed the goal before it had a chance to curve around.
And if he had kicked the ball from any farther back, the ball might have curved too much and shot past the goalposts, or hit the ground and lost the spiral.
"When shot from a large enough distance, and with enough power to keep an appreciable velocity as approaching the goal, the ball can have an unexpected trajectory," the researchers wrote in the New Journal of Physics.
"Carlos' kick started with a classical circular trajectory but suddenly bent in a spectacular way and came back to the goal, although it looked out of the target a small moment earlier.
"People often noticed that Carlos' free kick had been shot from a remarkably long distance; we show in our paper that this is not a coincidence, but a necessary condition for generating a spiral trajectory."
So did Carlos know what he was doing when he made that kick, or was it purely accidental?
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Remember the name: Noah Shawn
Noah Shawn, a 7-year old Bayern Munich prodigy, has taken the football world with a storm with his repertoire of dribbles, tricks, goals and assists, shared by his fans on YouTube.
Maybe it's a bit too early to tell, but on the evidence of these skills, expect a mega bid from Real Madrid before the kid even reaches puberty.
Watch video evidence of Bayern Munich prodigy Noah Shawn
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Maybe it's a bit too early to tell, but on the evidence of these skills, expect a mega bid from Real Madrid before the kid even reaches puberty.
Watch video evidence of Bayern Munich prodigy Noah Shawn
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Cesc Fábregas: I had to stay at Arsenal
Long-term Barcelona target Cesc Fàbregas has admitted he only stayed at Arsenal because he was given no choice.
Barcelona did their utmost to sign the midfielder this summer, but Arsenal and boss Arsène Wenger were able to resist offers and turn Fábregas' head back towards the Emirates.
In the end, Barcelona opted to sign Javier Mascherano from Liverpool to strengthen their midfield.
In an interview with Spanish paper Público, Fábregas said: "Barcelona did all that they could to sign me but Arsenal told me I had to stay, that there was no way there were going to let me go.
"In the end, I had to stay - but the content of my conversation with Arsène Wenger will remain private. We'll see what happens in the future."
The Gunners captain added: "I have a very long year ahead of me. I will be professional and give everything. I will not think about anything else other than Arsenal.
"If I start thinking about the future that will stop me being focused and I will have a bad year."
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Barcelona did their utmost to sign the midfielder this summer, but Arsenal and boss Arsène Wenger were able to resist offers and turn Fábregas' head back towards the Emirates.
In the end, Barcelona opted to sign Javier Mascherano from Liverpool to strengthen their midfield.
In an interview with Spanish paper Público, Fábregas said: "Barcelona did all that they could to sign me but Arsenal told me I had to stay, that there was no way there were going to let me go.
"In the end, I had to stay - but the content of my conversation with Arsène Wenger will remain private. We'll see what happens in the future."
The Gunners captain added: "I have a very long year ahead of me. I will be professional and give everything. I will not think about anything else other than Arsenal.
"If I start thinking about the future that will stop me being focused and I will have a bad year."
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- Arsène Wenger: Fábregas was torn between Arsenal & Barcelona
- The Cesc Fábregas transfer saga finally over!
- Cesc Fàbregas cries during his tribute in Barcelona
- Fàbregas: My internal struggle with Barça interest
- Puyol accuses Arsenal of not showing respect to Fàbregas
- Arsène Wenger's fury over Cesc Fábregas saga
- Messi & Busquets wants Fàbregas deal
- Andrés Iniesta wants Barcelona to bring Cesc Fàbregas home
- Fàbregas will certainly leave Arsenal, says Martin Keown
- Former Arsenal manager blasts Cesc Fàbregas
- Joan Laporta: Cesc Fàbregas has Barcelona DNA
- Piqué: Cesc will end up wearing Barcelona shirt
Francesco Totti not ready for retirement yet
AS Roma talisman Francesco Totti is about to turn 34 but has no plans to bow out of professional football anytime soon.
Totti, who has been at the capital giants his entire career, signed a new five-year deal with Roma in November last year after which he will become a club director, but the player has yet to contemplate his retirement plans.
The Roma captain told La Repubblica: "I have never considered what I’ll do when I retire. I don’t even dream of it at night. I still feel like a football player.
"The day I realise I’m not myself anymore and can no longer do on the pitch what I can do now, then I’ll be the first to throw in the towel.
"I don’t want to end up on the bench, the kind of person who plays 10 games per season. As soon as I feel that I am no longer Totti, I’ll step aside from everything.
"Of course, I hope that doesn’t happen for a long time."
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Totti, who has been at the capital giants his entire career, signed a new five-year deal with Roma in November last year after which he will become a club director, but the player has yet to contemplate his retirement plans.
The Roma captain told La Repubblica: "I have never considered what I’ll do when I retire. I don’t even dream of it at night. I still feel like a football player.
"The day I realise I’m not myself anymore and can no longer do on the pitch what I can do now, then I’ll be the first to throw in the towel.
"I don’t want to end up on the bench, the kind of person who plays 10 games per season. As soon as I feel that I am no longer Totti, I’ll step aside from everything.
"Of course, I hope that doesn’t happen for a long time."
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Philippe Mexès undecided about Roma future
AS Roma defender Philippe Mexès is at a crossroads and could decide to walk away from a contract renewal.
The 28-year-old centre-half only has one year left on his current contract and could leave on a free transfer next summer.
Roma have offered Mexès a new deal to extend his stay in the Eternal City, but the Frenchman admits he is unsure about staying as his place is under threat from the recent arrival of Nicolás Burdisso.
"Burdisso came back to Roma and it's obvious the competition has increased again," Mexès told France Football.
"I risk playing little and my contract will expire. Right now, I am seriously considering if it's worth prolonging it.
"The officials have already proposed me a four-year extension. I will think about it.
"If I don't get enough time in the starting XI in the first half of the season then I may decide against renewing it."
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The 28-year-old centre-half only has one year left on his current contract and could leave on a free transfer next summer.
Roma have offered Mexès a new deal to extend his stay in the Eternal City, but the Frenchman admits he is unsure about staying as his place is under threat from the recent arrival of Nicolás Burdisso.
"Burdisso came back to Roma and it's obvious the competition has increased again," Mexès told France Football.
"I risk playing little and my contract will expire. Right now, I am seriously considering if it's worth prolonging it.
"The officials have already proposed me a four-year extension. I will think about it.
"If I don't get enough time in the starting XI in the first half of the season then I may decide against renewing it."
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Euro 2012 qualifier: England 4-0 Bulgaria
Jermain Defoe scored a hat-trick as England overpowered Bulgaria 4-0 in the Three Lions' opening qualifier for the 2012 European Championship.
Defoe, who was initially ruled out of the match with a groin injury, made an instant impact after just three minutes at Wembley as he lashed home in clinical fashion after Ashley Cole's initial shot was parried by Nikolay Mihaylov.
The Tottenham Hotspur striker added another in the 61st minute when he rolled a finish under Mihaylov after a flowing move involving Gareth Barry, Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney.
Substitute Adam Johnson scored England's third goal on 84 minutes before Defoe completed his treble two minutes later.
Lineups:
England: Joe Hart; Glen Johnson, Michael Dawson (Gary Cahill, 57), Phil Jagielka, Ashley Cole; Theo Walcott (Adam Johnson, 74), Steven Gerrard, Gareth Barry, James Milner; Jermain Defoe (Ashley Young, 87), Wayne Rooney
Bulgaria: Nikolay Mihaylov; Zhivko Milanov, Stanislav Manolev (Veselin Minev, 66), Ivan Ivanov, Iliyan Stoyanov; Chavdar Yankov, Stanislav Angelov, Stiliyan Petrov, Martin Petrov; Ivelin Popov (Georgi Peev, 79), Valeri Bojinov (Dimitar Rangelov, 63)
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Defoe, who was initially ruled out of the match with a groin injury, made an instant impact after just three minutes at Wembley as he lashed home in clinical fashion after Ashley Cole's initial shot was parried by Nikolay Mihaylov.
The Tottenham Hotspur striker added another in the 61st minute when he rolled a finish under Mihaylov after a flowing move involving Gareth Barry, Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney.
Substitute Adam Johnson scored England's third goal on 84 minutes before Defoe completed his treble two minutes later.
Lineups:
England: Joe Hart; Glen Johnson, Michael Dawson (Gary Cahill, 57), Phil Jagielka, Ashley Cole; Theo Walcott (Adam Johnson, 74), Steven Gerrard, Gareth Barry, James Milner; Jermain Defoe (Ashley Young, 87), Wayne Rooney
Bulgaria: Nikolay Mihaylov; Zhivko Milanov, Stanislav Manolev (Veselin Minev, 66), Ivan Ivanov, Iliyan Stoyanov; Chavdar Yankov, Stanislav Angelov, Stiliyan Petrov, Martin Petrov; Ivelin Popov (Georgi Peev, 79), Valeri Bojinov (Dimitar Rangelov, 63)
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Euro 2012 qualifier: Liechtenstein 0-4 Spain
European and world champions Spain opened their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign with a convincing 4-0 win over Liechtenstein in Vaduz.
Fernando Torres opened the scoring the with a superb chip in the 19th minute before David Villa matched Spain's all-time scoring record with his 44th international goal seven minutes later.
Torres made it 3-0 early in the second half before making way for David Silva, who scored within five minutes on a left-footed shot low to Peter Jehle's right.
Lineups:
Liechtenstein: Peter Jehle; Yves Oehri (Franz-Josef Vogt, 46), Martin Stocklasa, Michael Stocklasa, Lucas Eberle (Martin Rechsteiner, 45); Philippe Erne, Michele Polverino, Sandro Wieser (Ronny Buechel, 83), Franz Burgmeier; David Hasler, Mario Frick
Spain: Iker Casillas; Sergio Ramos, Gerard Piqué, Carlos Marchena, Joan Capdevila; Sergio Busquets; Xabi Alonso, Xavi (Cesc Fàbregas, 46), Andrés Iniesta (Pedro, 65); David Villa, Fernando Torres (David Silva, 57)
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Fernando Torres opened the scoring the with a superb chip in the 19th minute before David Villa matched Spain's all-time scoring record with his 44th international goal seven minutes later.
Torres made it 3-0 early in the second half before making way for David Silva, who scored within five minutes on a left-footed shot low to Peter Jehle's right.
Lineups:
Liechtenstein: Peter Jehle; Yves Oehri (Franz-Josef Vogt, 46), Martin Stocklasa, Michael Stocklasa, Lucas Eberle (Martin Rechsteiner, 45); Philippe Erne, Michele Polverino, Sandro Wieser (Ronny Buechel, 83), Franz Burgmeier; David Hasler, Mario Frick
Spain: Iker Casillas; Sergio Ramos, Gerard Piqué, Carlos Marchena, Joan Capdevila; Sergio Busquets; Xabi Alonso, Xavi (Cesc Fàbregas, 46), Andrés Iniesta (Pedro, 65); David Villa, Fernando Torres (David Silva, 57)
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Euro 2012 qualifier: San Marino 0-5 Netherlands
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar grabbed a hat-trick as the Netherlands opened European Championship qualifying on Friday by coasting to a 5-0 victory at San Marino.
Dirk Kuyt opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 16th minute before Huntelaar netted his first of the game with seven minutes left in the first half.
Huntelaar went on to complete his hat-trick and then Ruud van Nistelrooy found the target from close range in his first international match since Euro 2008.
Lineups:
San Marino: Aldo Simoncini; Fabio Vitaioli, Damiano Vannucci, Maicol Berretti, Alessandro Della Valle, Davide Simoncini (Simone Bacciocchi, 61); Carlo Valentini, Pier Filippo Mazza, Manuel Marani (Alex Gasperoni, 76); Andy Selva, Matteo Vitaioli (Nicola Ciacci, 82)
Netherlands: Maarten Stekelenburg; Gregory van der Wiel, Hedwiges Maduro, Joris Mathijsen, Erik Pieters; Nigel de Jong (Rafael van der Vaart, 45), Mark van Bommel; Dirk Kuyt (Ruud van Nistelrooy, 68), Wesley Sneijder, Eljero Elia (Ibrahim Afellay, 59); Klaas-Jan Huntelaar
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Dirk Kuyt opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 16th minute before Huntelaar netted his first of the game with seven minutes left in the first half.
Huntelaar went on to complete his hat-trick and then Ruud van Nistelrooy found the target from close range in his first international match since Euro 2008.
Lineups:
San Marino: Aldo Simoncini; Fabio Vitaioli, Damiano Vannucci, Maicol Berretti, Alessandro Della Valle, Davide Simoncini (Simone Bacciocchi, 61); Carlo Valentini, Pier Filippo Mazza, Manuel Marani (Alex Gasperoni, 76); Andy Selva, Matteo Vitaioli (Nicola Ciacci, 82)
Netherlands: Maarten Stekelenburg; Gregory van der Wiel, Hedwiges Maduro, Joris Mathijsen, Erik Pieters; Nigel de Jong (Rafael van der Vaart, 45), Mark van Bommel; Dirk Kuyt (Ruud van Nistelrooy, 68), Wesley Sneijder, Eljero Elia (Ibrahim Afellay, 59); Klaas-Jan Huntelaar
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Euro 2012 qualifier: Belgium 0-1 Germany
Germany began their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign with a comfortable 1-0 victory over minnows Belgium in Brussels.
A defensive lapse by the hosts in the 51st minute allowed Germany's Thomas Müller to find Miroslav Klose unmarked just inside the penalty area and the marksman made no mistake.
Lineups:
Belgium: Logan Bailly; Toby Alderweireld, Daniel Van Buyten, Vincent Kompany, Thomas Vermaelen; Marouane Fellaini, Timmy Simons (Jelle Vossen, 83), Jan Vertonghen; Moussa Dembélé, Romelu Lukaku (Christian Benteke, 73), Eden Hazard (Olivier Deschacht, 73)
Germany: Manuel Neuer; Philipp Lahm, Per Mertesacker, Holger Badstuber, Marcell Jansen (Heiko Westermann, 46); Sami Khedira, Bastian Schweinsteiger; Thomas Müller, Mesut Özil (Cacau, 88), Lukas Podolski (Toni Kroos, 70); Miroslav Klose
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A defensive lapse by the hosts in the 51st minute allowed Germany's Thomas Müller to find Miroslav Klose unmarked just inside the penalty area and the marksman made no mistake.
Lineups:
Belgium: Logan Bailly; Toby Alderweireld, Daniel Van Buyten, Vincent Kompany, Thomas Vermaelen; Marouane Fellaini, Timmy Simons (Jelle Vossen, 83), Jan Vertonghen; Moussa Dembélé, Romelu Lukaku (Christian Benteke, 73), Eden Hazard (Olivier Deschacht, 73)
Germany: Manuel Neuer; Philipp Lahm, Per Mertesacker, Holger Badstuber, Marcell Jansen (Heiko Westermann, 46); Sami Khedira, Bastian Schweinsteiger; Thomas Müller, Mesut Özil (Cacau, 88), Lukas Podolski (Toni Kroos, 70); Miroslav Klose
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Euro 2012 qualifier: Estonia 1-2 Italy
Italy survived a scare as they rallied from a goal down to snatch a 2-1 victory over Estonia in Tallinn.
Estonia took the lead in the 31st minute when goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu couldn't control a free kick from Konstantin Vassiljev, allowing Sergei Zenjov to score off the rebound.
But Antonio Cassano found the target with a header in the 60th and passed with his heel inside the box three minutes later for Leonardo Bonucci to give Italy their first win of the year.
Lineups:
Estonia: Sergei Pareiko; Enar Jääger, Taavi Rähn, Raio Piiroja, Aleksandr Dmitrijev, Dmitri Kruglov (Tarmo Kink, 82); Sander Puri (Ats Purje, 77), Martin Vunk, Konstantin Vassiljev, Ragnar Klavan; Sergei Zenjov (Kaimar Saag, 64)
Italy: Salvatore Sirigu; Mattia Cassani, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini, Cristian Molinaro; Daniele De Rossi, Andrea Pirlo, Riccardo Montolivo (Angelo Palombo, 75); Simone Pepe (Fabio Quagliarella, 59), Giampaolo Pazzini, Antonio Cassano (Luca Antonelli, 80)
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Estonia took the lead in the 31st minute when goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu couldn't control a free kick from Konstantin Vassiljev, allowing Sergei Zenjov to score off the rebound.
But Antonio Cassano found the target with a header in the 60th and passed with his heel inside the box three minutes later for Leonardo Bonucci to give Italy their first win of the year.
Lineups:
Estonia: Sergei Pareiko; Enar Jääger, Taavi Rähn, Raio Piiroja, Aleksandr Dmitrijev, Dmitri Kruglov (Tarmo Kink, 82); Sander Puri (Ats Purje, 77), Martin Vunk, Konstantin Vassiljev, Ragnar Klavan; Sergei Zenjov (Kaimar Saag, 64)
Italy: Salvatore Sirigu; Mattia Cassani, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini, Cristian Molinaro; Daniele De Rossi, Andrea Pirlo, Riccardo Montolivo (Angelo Palombo, 75); Simone Pepe (Fabio Quagliarella, 59), Giampaolo Pazzini, Antonio Cassano (Luca Antonelli, 80)
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