Monday, 29 February 2016

Napoli star held up at gunpoint, robbed in city centre

NAPLES, Italy (Reuters) - Napoli striker Lorenzo Insigne was held up at gunpoint and robbed as he was driving through crime-plagued Naples over the weekend, his agent said on Monday.

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Hectic schedule forces Selangor coach to rotate squad

PETALING JAYA: Selangor coach Zainal Abidin Hassan is ready to tinker with his squad.

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Optimistic Cech wants Arsenal response after severe setback

(Reuters) - Arsenal were dealt a severe blow to their Premier League title hopes with Sunday's 3-2 loss to Manchester United but can quickly get back on track with two wins in four days, goalkeeper Petr Cech has said.

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FAM exco reject president Tengku Abdullah's intention to quit

KELANA JAYA: Please don’t go. That’s the message the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) have sent to their president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah.

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Risk-taking Ranieri revelling in Foxes run

(Reuters) - Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri said it was his job to take risks and chase victories if they are to land the most unlikeliest of Premier League titles.

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Former Bayern boss Hoeness given early release from jail

BERLIN (Reuters) - Former Bayern Munich President Uli Hoeness has been released from prison on suspension after serving half of his 3-1/2-year jail term for tax evasion, Bavaria's Justice Ministry said on Monday.

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Sunday, 28 February 2016

Caballero the unlikely hero for City

LONDON: Willy Caballero proved an unlikely hero with three penalty saves as Manchester City beat Liverpool 3-1 in a Wembley Stadium shootout on Sunday to win the English League Cup.

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Jeepers keepers! Caballero enjoys rare day on City stage

LONDON (Reuters) - For a moment, just after Yaya Toure's penalty had won the League Cup for Manchester City on Sunday, hero Willy Caballero seemed unaware of what had just transpired in the Wembley final against Liverpool.

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Tottenham close gap at top by beating Swansea

LONDON, Feb 28 (Reuters) - Tottenham Hotspur 2 Swansea City 1

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Penang's Kumaahran gets cold feet playing at home

GEORGE TOWN: Penang striker S. Kumaahran needs to overcome a mental complex when playing at the City Stadium.

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Saturday, 27 February 2016

Bayern charge past hapless Wolfsburg to extend lead

BERLIN (Reuters) - Bayern Munich scored twice in eight minutes to beat VfL Wolfsburg 2-0 on Saturday and go 11 points clear at the top of the Bundesliga as they chase an unprecedented fourth consecutive league crown.

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Chelsea late show sinks Southampton

Southampton 1 Chelsea 2

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Griezmann strike gives Atletico 1-0 derby win at Real

MADRID (Reuters) - Atletico Madrid extended their dominance over neighbours Real with a 1-0 derby win on Saturday that leaves the Bernabeu team virtually out of the Liga title race.

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Selangor score comeback win, Felda stay perfect in Super League

PETALING JAYA: Patrick Wleh continued to play a crucial role to help Selangor come from behind to beat Pahang 3-1 in their Super League match at the Darul Makmur Stadium.

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Asia calls for unity to drive FIFA reform after Infantino win

SEOUL (Reuters) - Asian football said it was looking forward to working with new FIFA President Gianni Infantino, despite the region's two candidates losing out to the Swiss in Friday's election, and called for unity to help push the reform process forward.

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PKNS getting back on track after first Premier League win

GEORGE TOWN: PKNS FC believe they have turned the corner after beating Armed Forces 2-0 for their maiden Premier League win this season.

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Friday, 26 February 2016

Key developments at Friday's FIFA congress

ZURICH (Reuters) - Key developments and reaction when world football's governing body FIFA elected Gianni Infantino as new president and voted in a series of reforms at its congress on Friday:

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Manchester City are beatable in League Cup, says Klopp

LONDON (Reuters) - Liverpool can beat the "best team in the Premier League" when they take on Manchester City in the League Cup final at Wembley on Sunday, according to boss Juergen Klopp.

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Not so pretty in pink in Kelantan's match against Sarawak

PETALING JAYA: Kelantan trooped onto the field in pink colours for the first time in front of their home fans.

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Man United to face Liverpool in Europa League last 16

(Reuters) - Manchester United and Liverpool, English football's two most decorated clubs, will face each other in the last 16 of the Europa League, extending a rivalry dating back to the 19th century into European competition for the first time.

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Kelantan can wait, focus on Perak first says Kedah coach

GEORGE TOWN: All the talk in the Kedah football fraternity is about the back-to-back encounters against Kelantan next week.

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Pochettino primes two-pronged attack on glory for Spurs

(Reuters) - Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino believes his squad has enough strength in depth to compete for both domestic and continental honours after his side reached the last 16 of the Europa League on Thursday.

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FIFA passes sweeping reforms with 89 percent of members in favour

ZURICH (Reuters) - FIFA on Friday passed a series of sweeping reforms as it looks to clean up world soccer's governing body following years of corruption.

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Oxlade-Chamberlain out for weeks with knee injury, says Wenger

(Reuters) - Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been sidelined for weeks after suffering a knee injury in Tuesday night's 2-0 Champions League last-16, first leg defeat by Barcelona.

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Thursday, 25 February 2016

Liverpool through with nervy win, perfect 10 for Valencia

LONDON (Reuters) - Manchester United flirted with calamity before coasting into the Europa League last 16 as debutant Marcus Rashford helped them overcome an early blow with two goals in a 5-1 home victory over Midtjylland on Thursday.

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Teen wonder Jin Wei breaks into world's top 100

KUALA LUMPUR: Six months ago, teenager Goh Jin Wei was ranked 409th in the world. Now, she’s in the top 100 of the women’s singles ranking.

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BAM lose two more players - Aik Quan and Jinn Hwa

KUALA LUMPUR: Two more shuttlers – Tan Aik Quan and Tan Jinn Hwa – have left the Badmin­ton Association of Malay­sia (BAM).

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Vivian-Khe Wei out from German Open and All-England

KUALA LUMPUR: The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) have pulled out national women’s doubles pair Woon Khe Wei-Vivian Hoo from two major European tournaments at the last minute due to two factors.

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Malaysia not shoo-in to host Suzuki Cup

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia are not an automatic choice to host one of the group stages of the 2016 Asean Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup following the withdrawal of the Philippines.

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Atletico fail to take advantage of 10-man PSV

EINDHOVEN (Reuters) - PSV Eindhoven played for more than 20 minutes with 10 men but held on for a goalless draw at home to Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday.

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Rested Leicester aim to put squeeze on title rivals

LONDON (Reuters) - Leicester City can put some distance between themselves and the chasing pack in the Premier League title race on Saturday when they return to action after having a two-week break.

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Three vie to replace Philippines as AFF Cup co-hosts - report

(Reuters) - Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore have offered to step in as co-hosts of the 2016 AFF Suzuki Cup after the Philippines withdrew following a contractual row about the use of the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila, Singaporean media reported.

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Wednesday, 24 February 2016

Sturridge keen for long-term stay with Liverpool

(Reuters) - Liverpool's Daniel Sturridge has pledged his future to the club despite manager Juergen Klopp having publicly criticised the striker's attitude towards his injury problems.

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Man United must learn to ignore critics, says Van Gaal

(Reuters) - Manchester United must learn to ignore their critics as their performances may have been affected by the intense scrutiny the team have been under throughout the campaign, manager Louis van Gaal said on Wednesday

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Kafa rubbish talk of coach Devan's future with Kelantan team

JOHOR BARU: Coach K. Devan is doing just fine with Kelantan.

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Safiq steers JDT to thumping win in AFC Cup

JOHOR BARU: The flattering score line aside, it was how hat-trick hero Safiq Rahim scored the brilliant solo opening goal that captured the imagination.

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Liverpool Cup win would trigger more success - Mignolet

(Reuters) - Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet believes a League Cup victory this weekend could instigate a period of sustained success for manager Juergen Klopp similar to the trophy-laden spell Jose Mourinho enjoyed during his first stint at Chelsea.

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More goals please, Felda tells striker Doe

PETALING JAYA: Super League leaders Felda United are demanding more goals from striker Francis Doe.

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Luis Enrique delighted as Barca extend record unbeaten run

LONDON (Reuters) - Barcelona coach Luis Enrique was impressed with the way his team performed in their Champions League win at Arsenal on Tuesday, which extended their club record unbeaten run to 33 games.

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Confident Bayern expect to advance despite Juve fightback

(Reuters) - Bayern Munich remain confident of advancing to the Champions League quarter-finals despite blowing a two-goal lead in a thrilling 2-2 draw at Juventus in the first leg of their Round of 16 encounter on Tuesday.

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Time for young doubles pairs to climb the rankings

PETALING JAYA: The three young national men’s pairs survived their first baptism of fire – in the Asia Team Championships in Hyderabad, India.

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Tuesday, 23 February 2016

Juve stage two-goal comeback to draw 2-2 with Bayern

TURIN (Reuters) - Juventus staged a superb revival to battle back from two goals down and rescue their Champions League hopes with a 2-2 draw against Bayern Munich in their last 16 first leg on Tuesday.

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Guardiola appointment not behind City's slump - Pellegrini

KIEV (Reuters) - Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has rejected the notion that the club's announcement that Pep Guardiola will take over at the end of the season has derailed their campaign.

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Daly set for England debut against Ireland

LONDON (Reuters) - Elliot Daly is poised to make his England debut in Saturday's Six Nations clash against Ireland at Twickenham after being named in coach Eddie Jones's squad.

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United's De Gea could play in must-win Europa League game

(Reuters) - Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal may have goalkeeper David De Gea back for Thursday's Europa League Last 32 match against Danish side Midtjylland.

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Mikel wants Hiddink to reconsider Chelsea exit

(Reuters) - Midfielder John Obi Mikel wants interim manager Guus Hiddink to extend his stay at Chelsea beyond the current season, despite the Dutchman confirming his intention to leave the club in May.

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Women's doubles back-up need to step up with Fie Cho out

PETALING JAYA: National doubles shuttler Soong Fie Cho’s untimely knee injury has thrown the women’s doubles department in disarray.

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It's a switch for the better for shuttler Yew Sin

PETALING JAYA: National shuttler Ong Yew Sin has seen his stock rise since leaving the singles scene to take up doubles duty.

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Van Gaal relief as Man Utd march into FA Cup last eight

SHREWSBURY, England (Reuters) - Manchester United provided some blessed relief to under-fire manager Louis van Gaal by powering into the FA Cup quarter-finals with a 3-0 romp at League One (third-tier) Shrewsbury Town on Monday.

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Don't judge me on Champions League alone, says Guardiola

(Reuters) - Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola is determined to win the Champions League for a third time but will not be judged a failure even if he leaves at the end of the season without lifting Europe's biggest prize again.

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Napoli stay second after being held by Milan

NAPLES, Italy, (Reuters) - Coach Maurizio Sarri was sent off as Napoli wasted a chance to return to the top of Serie A when they were held 1-1 at home by AC Milan in a tense encounter on Monday.The hosts, 4-0 winners at San Siro earlier in the campaign, went ahead in the 39th minute when Lorenzo Insigne's 25-metre effort took a wicked deflection off Ignazio Abate and wrong-footed goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

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Easier preparing for Barca than Hull, says Arsenal's Wenger

LONDON (Reuters) - Arsenal face a huge task trying to blunt Barcelona's famed strikeforce in the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday but manager Arsene Wenger says preparing his team is easier than for last weekend's FA Cup tie with Hull City.

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Monday, 22 February 2016

Chong Wei sees promise in younger players after Asian meet

KUALA LUMPUR: Lee Chong Wei has challenged the younger shuttlers to look beyond the Asia Team Championships.

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Denmark endure Mogensen blow in Euro Thomas Cup qualifiers

KUALA LUMPUR: The Danish contingent were in a sombre mood despite qualifying for the Thomas Cup Finals as the No. 1 team in Europe.

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Indonesia's young shuttlers starting to deliver the goods

KUALA LUMPUR: Indonesia is finally reaping the reward from their junior shuttlers.

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Kuantan FA remain modest despite flying start

GEORGE TOWN: Kuantan FA prefer to keep a low profile despite making an explosive start to the season.

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Sunday, 21 February 2016

Hiddink condemns coin-throwing Chelsea fans

LONDON (Reuters) - Coin-throwing fans marred the FA Cup for the second consecutive day on Sunday with Chelsea supporters under fire after an incident during their 5-1 defeat of Manchester City on Sunday.

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Ronaldo misses penalty as Real Madrid held 1-1 at Malaga

(Reuters) - Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty as Real Madrid and neighbours Atletico were held to draws on Sunday leaving Barcelona with an eight-point lead at the top of La Liga and 13 matches left.

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Barca continue title defence at old foes Arsenal

LONDON (Reuters) - Barcelona take a 32-match unbeaten run to Arsenal for the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie on Tuesday as the Catalans continue their bid to become the first team to retain the trophy in 26 years.

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Devan perplexed with irate fans over Kelantan's 'poor form'

PETALING JAYA: Kelantan coach K. Devan is dumbfounded by the flak the team have been receiving from their fans.

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China claim women's title in Asia Team Championships

KUALA LUMPUR: There seemed to be no end to China’s pool of talent.

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Saturday, 20 February 2016

Suarez and Neymar strike again in narrow Barca win

MADRID (Reuters) - Goals from the prolific Luis Suarez and Neymar earned Barcelona a 2-1 victory at Las Palmas on Saturday that propelled them nine points clear at the top of La Liga.

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Mueller double earns Bayern win over Darmstadt

BERLIN (Reuters) - Thomas Mueller scored twice, including a spectacular 71st-minute bicycle kick, to trigger Bayern Munich's 3-1 comeback win over Darmstadt 98 and enable the Bundesliga leaders to move 11 points clear at the top of the table on Saturday.

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Wenger calls for more Arsenal efficiency against Barca

LONDON (Reuters) - Flummoxed by a rearguard action from Championship leaders Hull City in the FA Cup on Saturday, manager Arsene Wenger knows his Arsenal side must sharpen up for next week's Champions League last-16 clash with Barcelona.

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Kedah’s huge win nothing to shout about, says coach Cheng Hoe

PETALING JAYA: Kedah coach Tan Cheng Hoe has played down his side’s 8-0 thumping win of minnows Megah Murni in the second round of the FA Cup.

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Iskandar aalmost a shoo-in for Thomas Cup after Hyderabad performance

KUALA LUMPUR: Singles shuttler Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin has put himself in a very good position to represent Malaysia in the Thomas Cup Finals in Kunshan, China, from May 15-22.

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Five talking points from JDT v UiTM FA Cup tie

Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) gave UiTM FC a lesson in football at the UiTM Stadium in Shah Alam on Friday.

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Japan out to give China another blow in Asia Team Championships

KUALA LUMPUR: Japan’s women’s team, led by Nozomi Okuhara will be looking to serve China a double blow at the Asia Team Championships in Hyderabad, India.

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Friday, 19 February 2016

Soccer-City to field weakened team against full-strength Chelsea

LONDON (Reuters) - Manchester City will field a weakened team for this weekend's FA Cup fifth-round tie at Chelsea but the home club will not follow suit, their respective managers said on Friday.

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FIFA faces day of reckoning as threats mount

ZURICH (Reuters) - The spotlight at next week's FIFA Congress will fall on the presidential election - but the real key to the future of soccer's beleaguered governing body is embedded in a document with the unglamorous title "Draft statutes - Congress 2016".

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Frost still happy with younglings despite quarter-final exits

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s challenge in the Asia Team Championships may have ended in the quarter-finals, but Morten Frost was still grinning from ear to ear.

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UiTM thrashed at home by JDT in FA Cup

SHAH ALAM: The gulf in class was clear as day as Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) handed UiTM FC a lesson in football.

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Fans warned against high expectations on Faiz when they entertain Kuantan FA

GEORGE TOWN: Penang skipper Rafiuddin Rodin has warned fans not to expect miracles from Faiz Subri every time the team win a free-kick.

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End of the road for Malaysia in Asia Team Championships

KUALA LUMPUR: Former Asian junior champion Soo Teck Zhi had a chance to become Malaysia’s hero at the Asia Team Championships, but he blew it.

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Uber Cup dream shatters as Malaysia fell to Thailand

KUALA LUMPUR: One disappointment for the year is enough. After failing to help Malaysia qualify for the Uber Cup Finals on Friday, doubles shuttlers Vivian Hoo-Woon Khe Wei intend to go all out to make the cut for the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

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Arsenal's Elneny will get chance against Hull, says Wenger

(Reuters) - Arsenal midfielder Mohamed Elneny will get a chance to impress in Saturday's FA Cup fifth round clash against second tier side Hull City, manager Arsene Wenger has said.

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Spurs' Alli still has a lot to learn, says Pochettino

(Reuters) - Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli's kick at an opponent in Thursday's Europa League stalemate with Fiorentina shows the talented youngster still has a lot to learn, manager Mauricio Pochettino has said.

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Thursday, 18 February 2016

United keeper De Gea injured in Europa League warm-up

HERNING, Denmark (Reuters) - Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea will have a scan on a knee problem he suffered warming up for their 2-1 Europa League defeat by Danish side Midtjylland on Thursday.

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Salman buoyant heading into final FIFA campaign stretch

LONDON (Reuters) - FIFA presidential candidate Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa says he will enter the final stretch of the election campaign in confident mood after receiving "significant support around the world".

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Man Utd slump again in Europa League, holders Sevilla win

LONDON (Reuters) - Manchester United's hopes of salvaging their season in the Europa League suffered a stinging setback when they lost 2-1 at Danish side Midtjylland in the first leg of their last-32 clash on Thursday.

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Zidane turns his mind to La Liga chase

MADRID (Reuters) - An elated but pragmatic Zinedine Zidane has quickly turned his mind from the Champions League victory against AS Roma to Real Madrid’s seemingly impossible task to catch Barcelona in La Liga.

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China humbled by hosts India in Asia team badminton meet

KUALA LUMPUR: In the past, even the second best badminton team from China would have been formidable. Well, not anymore.

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Carroll, Valencia out of FA Cup tie against Blackburn

(Reuters) - West Ham United will be without strikers Enner Valencia and Andy Carroll for Sunday's FA Cup tie against Blackburn Rovers, but playmaker Manuel Lanzini is back in first-team training for the first time since Jan. 2.

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FAM committee chairman Ah Chai passes away

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Goh Ah Chai, the chairman of the referees committee with the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), passed away on Thursday. He was 70.

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Perak skipper Nasir ready for FA Cup return against Sarawak

IPOH: Injured Perak skipper Nasir Basharuddin is ready to make a comeback.

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'Knuckleball' Faiz to take more free-kicks for Penang now

GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s “Man of the Moment” Faiz Subri has earned his stripes and will take charge of all dead-ball situations.

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Spurs won't dream of title during run-in, says Dembele

(Reuters) - Title challengers Tottenham Hotspur will not be distracted by the prospect of lifting the Premier League trophy in May and are solely focused on their upcoming fixtures, midfielder Mousa Dembele said.

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Odd-defying Jin Wei was not enough to overcome China

KUALA LUMPUR: It was like a battle between David and Goliath when Goh Jin Wei went up against Sun Yu in Malaysia’s final Group A match against China at the Asia Team Championships in Hyderabad, India.

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Wednesday, 17 February 2016

Man United's Rooney left out of Europa League squad

(Reuters) - Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has been left out of the 18-man squad travelling to face Danish side FC Midtjylland in the Europa League on Thursday, the Premier League club said on their website (www.manutd.com).

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Messi reaches 301 La Liga goals as Barca open big lead

MADRID (Reuters) - Lionel Messi became the first player to notch 300 La Liga goals as his double blast powered Barcelona to a 3-1 win at Sporting Gijon that sent them six points clear at the top of the table on Wednesday.

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FIFA Ethics Committee sanctions Franz Beckenbauer

ZURICH (Reuters) - FIFA's ethics watchdog on Wednesday imposed a warning and 7,000 Swiss franc ($7,055) fine on German football great Franz Beckenbauer for stonewalling an investigation.

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Joo Ven keen to play again at Asia Team meet after winning debut

PETALING JAYA: National shuttler Soong Joo Ven is keeping his fingers crossed that he has done enough to impress the coaches at the Asia Team Championships.

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Sponsorship issue may force Chong Wei out of Podium Programme

PETALING JAYA: World No. 2 shuttler Lee Chong Wei is set to turn down the opportunity to be a part of the recently launched Podium Programme.

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Klopp's eye for bargain Matip saves millions for Reds

(Reuters) - Liverpool have saved millions by signing defender Joel Matip on a free transfer from German Bundesliga side Schalke 04, manager Juergen Klopp has said.

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Manchester United fans plan Europa League ticket price protest

(Reuters) - Manchester United fans are planning to protest against being asked to pay 71 pounds ($101.5) per ticket for their Europa League away match against Danish league winners Midtjylland on Thursday, according to reports in the British media.

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Butt looking to produce more one-club players at Manchester United

(Reuters) - Manchester United are looking to produce more one-club players like Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville, Nicky Butt said after taking over as head of the club's academy.

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Tuesday, 16 February 2016

United need to win trophy to save season, says Rooney

(Reuters) - Manchester United need to end their trophy drought by winning either the Europa League or the FA Cup and finish in the Premier League's top four this season to get the fans back on board, captain Wayne Rooney said.

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Jin Wei and doubles to the rescue at Asia Team meet

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian women’s team had to rely on their youngest player – Goh Jin Wei – to hand them a spot in the quarter-finals of the Asia Team Championships.

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Arsenal defeat will not stall Leicester's season, says Morgan

(Reuters) - Skipper Wes Morgan is confident that Leicester City will leave behind their dispiriting defeat by Arsenal and get their Premier League title challenge back on track.

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Sturridge brings 'fear factor' back to Liverpool - Henderson

(Reuters) - Daniel Sturridge's return from injury to the starting line-up is a massive bonus and will bring the "fear factor" back to Liverpool, captain Jordan Henderson has said.

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FIFA hears Blatter appeal against eight-year ban

ZURICH (Reuters) - Banned FIFA president Sepp Blatter was at the headquarters of football's governing body on Tuesday for a hearing to appeal against his eight-year suspension from the sport.

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Malaysia’s men off to good start in Asia Team Championships

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia cruised to a 4-1 win over Sri Lanka in Group B of the Asia Team Championships at the GMC Balayogi Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad, India, on Tuesday.

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Chong Wei gets ‘easy’ draw for next month’s All-England

PETALING JAYA: World No. 2 Lee Chong Wei can thank his lucky stars after getting what looks, on paper at least, like an easy draw in the All-England badminton championships.

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MBA's 8th International reflects a smashing journey

Michael's Badminton Academy (MBA) will once again organise the MBA International Badminton Tournament, but the 8th edition, slated for March 11-13, carries a special meaning for them.

More...



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Monday, 15 February 2016

Chelsea's Hiddink wants Hazard to focus on form, not PSG

(Reuters) - Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink has reminded Eden Hazard of his priorities, asking the midfielder to focus on improving his form and fitness rather than contemplating a potential move at the end of the season.

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Platini says done 'nothing wrong' as appeal hearing starts

ZURICH (Reuters) - Banned UEFA president Michel Platini said he hoped to clear his name in time for the 2016 European Championship soccer tournament in June after attending a hearing on Monday to appeal against his suspension.

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Ronaldo back on Champions League goal trail at Roma

(Reuters) - Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane reckons Cristiano Ronaldo is on top form as the Portuguese looks to increase his Champions League goals tally when they visit AS Roma in the first leg of their last-16 tie on Wednesday.

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Students put former top-flight players to shame with Premier League win

PETALING JAYA: UiTM FC striker Pavel Purishkin is in hot form with four goals in two matches in the Premier League.

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Tough act to follow for Goh-Tan in Germany

KUALA LUMPUR: Doubles shuttlers Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong will have to go beyond the early rounds of the German Open if they are to make a significant jump in the Road to Rio ranking.

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Malaysia fell 6-2 to Qatar to complete winless outing in Uzbekistan

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia walked out of the men’s Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Futsal Championship with ignominy after failing to win a single game in their campaign.

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Chelsea confident ahead of PSG clash, says Cahill

(Reuters) - Chelsea head into Tuesday night's Champions League match against Paris St Germain with renewed confidence in their scoring abilities after putting five past Newcastle United on Saturday, defender Gary Cahill has said.

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Manchester United to name stand after Bobby Charlton

LONDON (Reuters) - England great Bobby Charlton is to have the South Stand at Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium named after him, 60 years on from his debut for the club.

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Terengganu FC II coach giving more time to imports

GEORGE TOWN: Terengganu FC II coach Rahmad Darmawan is willing to give new buy Dilshod Sharofetdinov more time to adapt to his new team.

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Penang boys the shining stars for Singapore at Asia team meet

KUALA LUMPUR: Two brothers from Penang – Loh Kean Yean and Loh Kean Yew – nearly helped Singapore turn the tables on mighty China on the opening day of the Asia Team Championships in Hyderabad, India.

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Barca eye another treble as Champions League resumes

LONDON (Reuters) - Barcelona will turn their gaze from domestic honours to Europe in their quest for a second straight treble when the holders return to Champions League duties against Arsenal in the last 16, which starts this week.

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Sunday, 14 February 2016

Liverpool crush beleaguered Villa 6-0

LONDON - Liverpool pushed Aston Villa even closer to relegation when they crushed the Premier League's bottom club 6-0 on Sunday leading to a mass exodus of home fans long before the final whistle at Villa Park.

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Penang get Marvelous signing after Chad snub

GEORGE TOWN: Penang, stunned by the last-minute snub by Brazilian striker Charles Chad, have secured the services of Nigerian Osas Marvelous Ikpefua – just before the M-League player registration deadline ended on Sunday.

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Malaysia playing for pride in final futsal match

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia will only be playing for pride when they take on Qatar in their final Group D match in the men’s Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Futsal Championship.

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JDT coach wants fans to give newbie Lucero time to shine

JOHOR BARU: Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) head coach Mario Gomez has this message for the fans: “Give new striker Juan Martin Lucero time and he will come good.”

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Asia Team Championships: Take it away, Ho Yen Mei

KUALA LUMPUR: The spotlight is on Ho Yen Mei at the Asia Team Championships.

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Japan avoid being kicked out of Asia Team Championships

KUALA LUMPUR: Japan have avoided the embarrassment of being kicked out of the Asia Team Championships after both their men and women’s teams failed to arrive in Hyderabad, India, on time.

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The boys are all fired up for the Asian Team Championships

KUALA LUMPUR: Young and ambitious. That’s an apt description of Malaysia’s young brigade as they seek to emerge as Group B champions in the Asia Team Championships, starting Monday.

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Perak stand-in goalie impresses on Super League debut

IPOH: Debutant goalkeeper Muhd Hafizul Hakim has made a flying start with the Perak Super League team.

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Saturday, 13 February 2016

Gloom returns for Man Utd, West Ham deny Norwich vital win

LONDON (Reuters) - Manchester United missed the chance to steal a march on the Premier League's top four when an own goal by keeper David De Gea cost them a 2-1 defeat at Premier League strugglers Sunderland on Saturday.

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Real keep up pace behind Barca with 4-2 win over Athletic

MADRID (Reuters) - Valencia handed coach Gary Neville his first La Liga win when they beat Espanyol 2-1 on Saturday while Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice in a thrilling 4-2 home victory for Real Madrid over Athletic Bilbao.

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Leicester will drop me if I don't track back - Mahrez

LONDON (Reuters) - Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri would have no qualms about dropping Riyad Mahrez if the playmaker did not augment his sublime attacking skills with equally good defensive work, the Algerian said on Saturday.

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I'm 2-0 up in battle against cancer, says Cruyff

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - Dutch soccer great Johan Cruyff says he is "2-0 up in the first half" of his fight against lung cancer and confident of winning the battle.

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Thirteen European FAs pledge FIFA backing to Infantino

BELGRADE (Reuters) - The football association chiefs of 13 European countries that met in Belgrade on Saturday have pledged unanimous support to Gianni Infantino in his bid to become FIFA president, the Serbian FA (FSS) said in a statement.

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Ying Ying feeling the jitters on her first major meet

KUALA LUMPUR: Shuttler Lee Ying Ying has a good reason to be nervous about the Asia Team Championships in Hyderabad, India.

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Cheers for resilient Ratchanok in Thailand Masters

KUALA LUMPUR: What a comeback by Thailand’s Ratchanok Intanon! The 21-year-old Thai shuttler clawed her way back in the decider to beat Sun Yun of China in the women’s singles final at the Thailand Masters.

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It’s double duty for doubles player Chee Tean

KUALA LUMPUR: It is hard to see a Malaysian player mastering both the men’s doubles and mixed doubles events at the senior level.

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Chan-Goh miss Thailand Masters title but secure Rio spot

KUALA LUMPUR: It’s been a bittersweet outing for mixed doubles shuttlers Chan Peng Soon-Goh Liu Ying at the Thailand Masters.

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Perlis net six, JDT II fell short in Premier League opener

GEORGE TOWN: Perlis coach Dollah Salleh’s quest for redemption began with an impressive 6-1 win over Armed Forces in their opening Premier League match.

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Friday, 12 February 2016

Dzeko ends goal drought as revived Roma rise to third

MILAN (Reuters) - Edin Dzeko ended a barren scoring run as he and Mohamed Salah struck in the last six minutes to give revived AS Roma a 3-1 win at Carpi in Serie A on Friday.

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Porto win breathless classico as Casillas defies Benfica

LISBON (Reuters) - An inspired performance by goalkeeper Iker Casillas and a second-half goal from Vincent Aboubakar helped give Porto a 2-1 win at Benfica in a breathless, end-to-end 'classico' on Friday.

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FIFA ethics committee bans Valcke for 12 years

ZURICH (Reuters) - Former FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke became the latest high-profile soccer official to be kicked out of the sport when he was banned for 12 years on Friday after causing "considerable financial damage" to its scandal-plagued governing body.

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2016 Super League preview

THE 2016 Super League is upon us. Here, ex-Kelantan and JDT head coach Bojan Hodak gives his two cents on this season's contenders and pretenders to the crown.

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Wenger asks fans not to protest during Leicester game

(Reuters) - Arsene Wenger has urged Leicester City and Arsenal fans to abandon a planned protest at Sunday's Premier League match between the title rivals, saying they should not miss the "moment of happiness" that football brings.

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Kompany returns at last, but Man City suffer Delph blow

(Reuters) - Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany is fit for Sunday's Premier League visit of second-placed Tottenham Hotspur, but midfielder Fabian Delph has been ruled out for six to seven weeks, manager Manuel Pellegrini said on Friday.

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Chelsea a team of 'Zorros', says Hiddink after Costa breaks nose

LONDON (Reuters) - Chelsea striker Diego Costa will become the latest Chelsea player to wear a protective mask after breaking his nose, leading interim manager Guus Hiddink to liken his side to a "team of Zorros".

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Peng Soon-Liu Ying face China hurdle in Thailand Masters final

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s mixed doubles pair Chan Peng Soon-Goh Liu Ying are all pumped up to end the red-hot run of reigning world junior champions Zheng Siwei-Chen Qingchen of China in the Thailand Masters.

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Arsenal's Welbeck fit for Leicester, Mertesacker unlikely to start

(Reuters) - Striker Danny Welbeck could make the Arsenal squad for the first time this season against Leicester City on Sunday, but manager Arsene Wenger hinted on Friday that defender Per Mertesacker would not start against the league leaders.

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Klopp faces first selection headache as injury woes ease

(Reuters) - Manager Juergen Klopp is looking forward to his first selection headache of the season as a number Liverpool's key players have returned to fitness ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with Aston Villa.

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Unpredictable league makes beating Spurs essential - Sagna

(Reuters) - The unpredictable nature of the Premier League this season means it is essential for Manchester City to beat second-placed Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday to keep their title aspirations alive, right back Bacary Sagna said.

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Injured Fie Cho out of Asia Team Championships

KUALA LUMPUR: Soong Fie Cho’s badminton career is hanging in the balance after she pulled out from the Asia Team Championships.

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Pulis backs 10 pound tickets for Premier League away fans

(Reuters) - West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Pulis wants the price of Premier League away tickets to be fixed at 10 pounds as a measure to combat rising matchday costs for fans that he believes could kill the atmosphere within top flight stadiums.

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Brazilian midfielder Oscar commits to Chelsea

(Reuters) - Chelsea midfielder Oscar has said that he has no reason to leave the club and was keen to add to his trophy haul with the Premier League champions.

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Benzema admits to lying over sex tape - report

PARIS (Reuters) - Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has admitted to lying to fellow France international Mathieu Valbuena over a sex video at the centre of an alleged blackmailing attempt, Le Parisien reported on Friday.

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Thursday, 11 February 2016

Germany wants to test video replays in Bundesliga

BERLIN (Reuters) - Germany's football association (DFB) and the Bundesliga (DFL) will officially bid to be among the first countries to test video replay technology if the sports lawmakers approve a trial period next month, they said on Thursday.

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Payet close to signing new West Ham contract, says Bilic

(Reuters) - West Ham United's influential France international playmaker Dimitri Payet has signed a new long-term contract until 2021, the Premier League club said on Thursday.

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Sevilla reach King's Cup final against Barcelona

(Reuters) - Sevilla set up a King's Cup showpiece clash against Barcelona with a 6-2 aggregate semi-final victory over Celta Vigo after a 2-2 second-leg draw on Thursday.

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Key Perak players injured ahead of Super League opener

IPOH: Talk about opening day blues. Perak have been hit with injury problems to key players.

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Vivian-Khe Wei check into semis in Thailand Masters

KUALA LUMPUR: Another marathon match. Another sweet win and a little payback for national women’s doubles pair Woon Khe Wei-Vivian Hoo.

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Tough task awaits Indra Wijaya as new BAM singles coach

KUALA LUMPUR: Coach Indra Wijaya has an unenviable task on his hands. The Badminton Association of Malaysia have hired him to produce singles stars.

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Wednesday, 10 February 2016

Liverpool back down on ticket-price hike

LONDON (Reuters) - Liverpool's American owners bowed to pressure from the club's fans by backing down on plans to increase ticket prices significantly for next season following a mass walkout protest at their Anfield stadium on Saturday.

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Bayern ease into German Cup semis with win over Bochum

BERLIN (Reuters) - Bayern Munich eased into the German Cup semi-finals with a 3-0 victory over 10-man VfL Bochum on Wednesday with Robert Lewandowski scoring twice to keep their treble hopes on track.

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Barca salvage 1-1 King's Cup draw against improved Valencia

(Reuters) - Cameroonian teenager Wilfrid Kaptoum scored a late equaliser to give Barcelona a 1-1 draw at Valencia that wrapped up an 8-1 aggregate success in their King's Cup semi-final on Wednesday.

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Chelsea's Willian studied Beckham, Ronaldinho free-kicks

(Reuters) - Chelsea fans may have Ronaldinho and David Beckham to thank as they celebrate midfielder Willian slotting home free-kicks.

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Singles crumble, doubles save the day at Thailand Masters

KUALA LUMPUR: It was a dreadful day for the Malaysian men’s singles shuttlers as they were decimated by South Koreans in the Thailand Masters in Bangkok. Luckily, there was good news in the doubles department.

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JDT snap up another Argentine to boost attack

PETALING JAYA: Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) can’t seem to get enough of South American flair – and have named Argentinian striker Juan Martin Lucero as their fourth foreign signing this season.

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Sunderland's Johnson admits one count of sexual activity with child

LONDON (Reuters) - England international Adam Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of sexual activity with a child, but denied two other charges, when he appeared at Bradford Crown Court on Wednesday.

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Mourinho tells friends Man United job is his - reports

LONDON (Reuters) - Jose Mourinho has told friends and associates that he will replace Louis van Gaal as Manchester United manager at the end of the season, according to reports in several British newspapers on Wednesday.

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West Ham snatch extra time win over Liverpool in FA Cup

LONDON (Reuters) - Angelo Ogbonna leapt high to power home a header in the dying seconds of extra time to claim a timely first goal for the club as West Ham United sank Liverpool 2-1 on Tuesday to reach the last 16 of the FA Cup.

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Tuesday, 9 February 2016

Joo Ven ready for action if needed in Hyderabad

KUALA LUMPUR: “Be Prepared” may the motto for the Scouts. But it may just as well be shuttler Soong Joo Ven’s.

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Yin Fun grateful for chance to play in Asia Team Championships

KUALA LUMPUR: Shuttler Lim Yin Fun may be a last-minute replacement, but she’s thankful nonetheless for getting a second chance to play in the Asia Team Championships.

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Zulfadli hoping for Wan-ho's scalp as birthday present

KUALA LUMPUR: Zulfadli Zulkiffli wants to celebrate his 23rd birthday on Wednesday with a win over South Korean Son Wan-ho.

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Chelsea must reach FA Cup or Champions League final - Courtois

(Reuters) - Chelsea must reach the final of the Champions League and the FA Cup or at least one of them to save their season, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said after Sunday's 1-1 Premier League draw against Manchester United at home.

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Winger Januzaj limps out of Man United reserves match

(Reuters) - Belgium winger Adnan Januzaj sustained what looked like a hamstring injury while playing for Manchester United under-21s against Norwich City on Monday, the club's website has reported.

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Confident Arsenal hopes to stifle Leicester charge

(Reuters) - Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey hopes the North London can choke Leicester City's unexpected Premier League title charge after picking up their first win in five matches in Sunday's 2-0 win over Bournemouth.

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Monday, 8 February 2016

Zulkiffli brothers mark good start at Thailand Masters

KUALA LUMPUR: Zulkiffli brothers Zulfadli and Zulhelmi enjoyed a good start in the Thailand Masters in Bangkok.

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Fans walkout no excuse for Liverpool, says Henderson

(Reuters) - The walkout by home fans in the 77th minute over rising ticket prices is no excuse for Liverpool's 2-2 Premier League draw with Sunderland on Saturday, captain Jordan Henderson has said.

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City suspect changes upon Guardiola arrival, says Zabaleta

(Reuters) - Manchester City defender Pablo Zabaleta suspects there will be changes when new manager Pep Guardiola arrives during the close season but said the players are completely focussed on challenging for titles in the current campaign.

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Sunday, 7 February 2016

Tucking in mum's good food before crucial Asian meet for Jin Wei

KUALA LUMPUR: There’s nothing like a bit of tender loving care from your mum to perk you up for the battles that lie ahead.

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Barcelona regain three-point lead with 2-0 win at Levante

MADRID (Reuters) - Barcelona cruised to a 2-0 win at Levante with Luis Suarez scoring his 36th goal of the season on Sunday to regain their three-point lead over Atletico Madrid at the top of La Liga.

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Gurusamy ready to reboot career with coach Rajagopal at Sarawak

PETALING JAYA: Forgotten man K. Gurusamy is ready to remind everyone what he’s all about after joining Sarawak this season.

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Saturday, 6 February 2016

Liverpool collapse nothing to do with protest, says coach

LONDON (Reuters) - A mass protest by fans over ticket prices was not responsible for Liverpool's collapse as they allowed Sunderland to fight back to snatch a 2-2 Premier League draw on Saturday, said assistant coach Pep Lijnders.

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Pellegrini says Leicester are worthy title favourites

LONDON (Reuters) - Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini conceded that Leicester City were worthy favourites to lift the Premier League title following his side's humbling in their top-of-the-table clash on Saturday.

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Another home win for Saints despite Wanyama dismissal

Feb 6 (Reuters) - - Resurgent Southampton eked out a fourth straight home win in the Premier League on Saturday despite having to hold out for most of the second half against West Ham United with just 10 men following the sending off of Victor Wanyama.

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Argentine Olivi will let his football do the talking for Selangor

SHAH ALAM: New Selangor striker Mauro Olivi does not believe in making promises he can’t keep.

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Valencia coach Neville stays positive as pressure mounts

Feb 6 (Reuters) - Gary Neville said Valencia were not under any more pressure than usual to win their La Liga clash at Real Betis on Sunday, despite the discontent of the club's fans following the 7-0 drubbing by Barcelona on Wednesday.

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Multi-tasking no problem for Man City-bound Guardiola

BERLIN (Reuters) - Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola has shrugged off suggestions of a potential conflict of interest after signing with Premier League's Manchester City for next season, saying he was quite capable of mult-tasking.

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UiTM FC excited about JDT FA Cup match

PETALNG JAYA: February 19 will be a special day for Premier League outfits UiTM FC.

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BAM: Include Jin Wei in Podium Programme

KUALA LUMPUR: The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) will make an appeal the Youth and Sports Ministry to include reigning world junior girls’ singles champion Goh Jin Wei in the Podium Programme.

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The future lies in the leg for Liu Ying

KUALA LUMPUR: Shuttler Goh Liu Ying is unsure whether she will stay in the game after the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in August.

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Jing Yi out of Asia Team Championships with injury

KUALA LUMPUR: Top national women’s singles shuttler Tee Jing Yi has pulled out from this month’s Asia Team Championships in Hyderabad with a hamstring injury.

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Friday, 5 February 2016

Klopp rejects notion Sturridge is unhappy at Liverpool

LONDON (Reuters) - Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has dismissed media reports that injured striker Daniel Sturridge is unhappy at Anfield and wants to move at the end of the season.

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Teck Zhi wants to make an impact at Asia Team meet

KUALA LUMPUR: Soo Teck Zhi has fond memories of playing in junior team events. He now wants to make a mark in the senior ranks when he makes his debut in the Asia Team Championships from Feb 15-21 in India.

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Spurs in a 'tough period', says Pochettino ahead of stadium move

(Reuters) - Tottenham Hotspur are in a "tough period" due to their new stadium project, team manager Mauricio Pochettino said, citing the experience of rival team Arsenal, who also suffered after the switch to the Emirates Stadium.

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Liverpool fans plan walkout protest over ticket prices

(Reuters) - Liverpool could suffer the embarrassment of a mass exodus on Saturday with supporters' groups calling on fans to leave their seats during the Premier League match against Sunderland at Anfield to protest a rise in ticket prices.

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Wilshere jaded by constant battle against injuries

(Reuters) - Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has admitted that he often finds it difficult to remain positive in his constant battle against the injury problems that have hampered his club and international career.

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Kedah coach: Give Kahe time to shine

PETALING JAYA: Kedah coach Tan Cheng Hoe has asked critics to get off new signing Carlos Kahe’s back following the striker’s underwhelming start to life in the M-League.

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New lease of ‘life’ for ex-BAM player Daren

KUALA LUMPUR: He wasn’t much of a success during his time with the Badminton Association of Malaysia. But he's found a new beginning with Petaling Badminton Club.

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Doubles player Khe Wei hopes sacrifice pays off in Thailand Masters

KUALA LUMPUR: Doubles shuttler Woon Khe Wei will miss her family’s Chinese New Year celebrations for the first time.

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Thursday, 4 February 2016

Magical Four driving Bayern in Guardiola swansong

BERLIN (Reuters) - Bayern Munich will not be deterred by what the club say are false reports of discontent in coach Pep Guardiola's team as they focus on becoming the first side to win a fourth straight Bundesliga title.

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We’re here (Super League) to stay: T-Team

PETALING JAYA: Newly-promoted T-Team are here to stay in the Super League.

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Coach hoping for some upsets from rookie doubles pairs

KUALA LUMPUR: The three new men’s doubles pairs have been challenged to defy their underdog tag at the Asia Team Championships in Hyderabad, India, from Feb 15-21.

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Team spirit all good, says independent shuttler Zulfadli

KUALA LUMPUR: Independent shuttler Zulfadli Zulkiffli does not think that his lack of training time with the national team will affect team spirit ahead of the Thomas Cup qualifier.

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Lingard feels pressure ease as Man Utd find freedom

(Reuters) - Manchester United 3-0 Premier League win over Stoke City on Tuesday proves that manager Louis van Gaal's men have rediscovered their freedom, winger Jesse Lingard has said.

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Chinese clubs paid more per player than Europe elites - report

(Reuters) - Chinese clubs spent more per player than any other country in the January transfer window, according to data from FIFA's Transfer Matching System (TMS) seen by the Times.

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Wednesday, 3 February 2016

Suarez scores four as Barca rout Valencia 7-0

BARCELONA (Reuters) - Luis Suarez scored four goals and Lionel Messi grabbed a hat-trick as Barcelona all but wrapped up their King’s Cup semi-final by crushing Valencia 7-0 in the first leg at the Nou Camp on Wednesday.

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Chelsea held by Watford, Everton sink Newcastle

LONDON (Reuters) - There was no way through for Chelsea as Watford halted their recent resurgence in a goalless Premier League stalemate at Vicarage Road while Everton piled more woe on Newcastle United with a 3-0 victory on Wednesday.

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Intrepid Leicester face start of crunch time

LONDON (Reuters) - Surprise leaders Leicester City face a severe test of their Premier League title credentials over the next 10 days, starting with Saturday's trip to Manchester City.

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Tuesday, 2 February 2016

Vardy double keeps Leicester out in front

LONDON (Reuters) - Jamie Vardy sent a screaming reminder that leaders Leicester City are in the Premier league title race for the long haul with a sensational strike in a 2-0 win over Liverpool on Tuesday.

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No Guardiola distraction for City in title push, says Hart

(Reuters) - Joe Hart made it clear that no amount of hoopla over the appointment of Pep Guardiola was going to sidetrack Manchester City's title bid after they ground out a resilient victory to mark Manuel Pellegrini's 100th Premier League match on Tuesday.

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Kane double helps buoyant Tottenham outclass Norwich

LONDON (Reuters) - Goals from England young guns Dele Alli and Harry Kane earned Tottenham Hotspur a 3-0 win at Norwich City on Tuesday that strengthened their Premier League title bid.

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Koeman backs Forster for England after shutting Arsenal out

(Reuters) - Fraser Forster's display in Tuesday's 0-0 Premier League draw with Arsenal shows the Southampton goalkeeper is ready to challenge for the England gloves again, Saints manager Ronald Koeman said.

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Malaysia Japan together in Asia Team Championships badminton

PETALING JAYA: As luck would have it, Malaysia have been drawn together with Japan at the Asian Team Championships in Hyderabad, India, from Feb 15-21.

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Liverpool's Klopp a fan of Leicester's playing style

(Reuters) - Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he was aware of Leicester City's game plan ahead of Tuesday's trip to the King Power Stadium, but admitted that the knowledge, by itself, would not guarantee a result for his club.

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Guardiola to Man City, English spending passes 1 billion pounds

LONDON (Reuters) - English clubs took their spending on players for the season soaring past 1 billion pounds on Monday, but the biggest signing on transfer deadline day was that of a manager as Manchester City confirmed Pep Guardiola will take over this summer.

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Wenger out to settle a score as Arsenal take on Southampton

(Reuters) - Manager Arsene Wenger has urged Arsenal to "put things right" when they take on Southampton on Tuesday by avenging the 4-0 loss they suffered at St Mary's Stadium on Boxing Day.

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Monday, 1 February 2016

Stay focused, coach tells V Shem-Wee Kiong

PETALING JAYA: National coach Jeremy Gan wants Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong to stay focused for their next challenge – the Thailand Masters from Feb 8-13.

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Messi to meet young Afghan famed for shirt made from plastic bag

KABUL (Reuters) - Barcelona star Lionel Messi will meet an Afghan boy who gained Internet fame after a touching series of photographs went viral, showing him playing in a shirt improvised from a plastic bag and bearing the name and playing number of his hero.

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Chelsea face Man City in FA Cup glamour tie

(Reuters) - Premier League champions Chelsea, beginning to find their form under Guus Hiddink after a shocking start to the season, will face Manchester City in the outstanding tie of the FA Cup fifth round following Sunday's draw.

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Bayern coast home against Hoffenheim with Lewandowski brace

BERLIN (Reuters) - Robert Lewandowski scored both goals as runaway leaders Bayern Munich coasted to a predictable 2-0 win at home to relegation-threatened Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga on Sunday.

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Norwich bring in Chelsea striker Bamford on loan

LONDON (Reuters) - Norwich City have signed Chelsea striker Patrick Bamford on loan until the end of the season as they bid to stay in the Premier League, the club said on Sunday.

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Napoli stay top after Juve win 12th in a row

MILAN (Reuters) - Juventus thumped Chievo 4-0 away to win their 12th Serie A game in a row on Sunday but it was not enough to topple leaders Napoli who thrashed Empoli 5-1, helped by Gonzalo Higuain's 22nd goal of the season.

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China leave out stars for Thomas Cup qualifiers

KUALA LUMPUR: Like Malaysia, China are leaving all their top players out of the Asia Team Championships in Hyderabad, India, from Feb 15-21.

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Chong Wei to spar and motivate Thomas Cup-bound team-mates

KUALA LUMPUR: Lee Chong Wei will shorten his Chinese New Year break to give the young Asia Team Championships-bound team a helping hand.

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