Should Messi care that Ronaldo's sad? And what's up with Cesc?

Since his failure to celebrate his goals on Sunday, the world's been behind Cristiano Ronaldo asking... what's up with that? To these questions he answered with literary genius! "I'm sad." OK we get he's sad. Why? Apparently "the club knows why." These cryptic statements have lead to rumors galore of trouble in the Real Madrid camp and maybe an impending departure.



Here's what I've heard:

1. Manchester City is preparing a 95mill pound transfer deal for January.
2. Tricky because of his 1bill euro buy out clause?
3. Manchester United fan begging, prayer he'll return to the red devils.

Here's what his agent, Jorge Mendes said, making it perfectly clear he's aware of the superstar's feelings:

" Following [the] reports published by some media outlets, which claim that I have been surprised and  bothered by the statements made by Cristiano Ronaldo, I clarify the following. Firstly, Ronaldo's declarations are based on reasons that are to the best of my knowledge. It is at the discretion of Cristiano whether he discloses them or not. Secondly, these statements have not surprised me and, much less, caused me any discomfort. The relationship that binds me to Cristiano Ronaldo means he will always count on me with total solidarity."

So Jorge's not shocked people. He knows Ronaldo's sad.

Since Ronaldo's in the public eye for his sadness, why wouldn't the press ask his football adversary, his rival, what he thinks about the whole issue? Question of the day... Should Messi care? And if you say yes, why? In my opinion, Leo Messi's his own man, he's got his own issues, including a girlfriend who's about the pop any day, he's the best player in the world right now, he's front man for one of the greatest club football teams on the planet, he's captain of the Argentine football team, currently called up to international duty. Ahm... eh hem, forgive me, where in his mirage of issues should he find time to care about Cristiano Ronaldo? Honestly?? He's got better things to do. But these are my words. When questioned on the issue Leo Messi said it best. While trying obviously to avoid the question at all, he responded with a very diplomatic answer:


"This is something said by him, I've no connection with this matter."

He's right he has no connection and rightly so should stay away from the situation. In my humble opinion.

What on earth is going on with Cesc Fabregas?

I love Cesc, as a player and person. I always joke about having him on skype, but right now I wouldn't mind if that were true because I'd love to talk to him about what in the name of St. Francesc is going on. After failing to score TWICE on Sunday against Valencia, in a match which was admittedly a struggle to win, I came across a statistic I found shocking! It said that in all of 2012, Cesc hasn't scored in La Liga. My response to that? OY VEY, I hadn't noticed. That's a long time. So after his amazing start with Barca and tapering off into non goal scorability, is Cesc going to get the boot? OH NO! Woah there boy! Let's turn the shoot off on that rumour mill. If you don't believe me, here's what Barca's sports director Mr. Zubizaretta had to say:

 "Press claims Cesc not finding his spot? He has to compete with the best players in the world, but we're very happy with Cesc."

Cesc isn't going anywhere. At least not for now. And Cesc has confirmed he's got no interest in going anywhere.

"Everyone wants to play. I don't like to sit on the bench... But I'm not a bad teammate, and I always try to support the team....I know I'm competing with the best in the world. But I didn't join Barça for one, two, or three years. I want to retire here."


Cesc has made it clear people. He's at Barca to stay and I love him for it. I'm sure he'll soon find his rhythm and fight again. Maybe after a few skype therapy session with yours truly to sort his confidence. I Wish! LOL.

Bye bye for now.

Lisa,
Football goddess, Sports junkie, Barca girl.

So sad Cristiano, while Barca sits atop the chart

What in the world is eating Cristiano Ronaldo? After scoring against Granada this past Sunday and not celebrating in true Cristano fashion, the world press became concerned. The question? What's up with Cristiano Ronaldo? The answer? Very cagey. He's being reported as saying. "I'm sad, the club knows why..." Hmm??? Trouble brewing at the Bernabau? Not so fast. In June Cristiano was reported as saying he'd like to retire in a Real Madrid jersey, wanting to give his best to that white and black bwin shirt. Now he's sad. Poor thing. But my question is, is he really sad or is he more mad?? Lets analyse the timeline of his sadness.

UEFA player of the year award.

Last Thursday, August 30, was the player of the year award in Monaco. Who won might you ask? No... not Leo Messi, but rather his Barca pal Andres Iniesta, the mid field spiderman (IMO). While it was a shocker to many, thinking Leo Messi was a shoe in (0n top of over 70 goals for last season), none was more shocked than Cristiano, who, while probably used to losing to Messi by now, probably didn't expect to lose to Andres. His face was quite the tell that he was less that pleased, losing again and losing to a Barca player the worst. Maybe he should work on his poker face. But I suppose he took it on the chin and congratulated Iniesta. But it must have stung a little. Losing out, always coming second must suck, especially when you're on top of a truck load of goals yourself, leading man for the La Liga champions 2011-2012, UEFA champion league semi finalist 2011-2012 and Super Copa champions 2012-2013. Yeah, this might make one a trite upset. But its all politics so fret not.

Call it what it is?

So, is it sadness or annoyance for what seems to be an international lack of recognition for his greatness? And don't get me wrong, I'm a barca girl, but he's great, I call it like see it. So what is it? What do you all think? I think he's more pissy than depressed, but what do I know, I don't have him on skype. Maybe he's genuinely sad, in which case, poor baby. Some might say, he's the front man for a near unstoppable force in the footballing community, what's he got to be sad about? Well, money and fame doesn't always equal happiness so I wouldn't be so quick to want to switch places with him.

Rumors Running Rampant

Amidst the boo hoo sadness, rumors are running rampant about an imminent departure from Real Madrid. True? Hold your horses. I wouldn't jump on that wagon just yet. I suppose as the story unfolds further and he opens up a little more about why he's so sad, we'll see. Let's see if the plot thickens or waters down. For now, I'm calling it a hoax. Its too premature to make any calls. End of story.

Barca on top, 5 points clear of Real.

In the mean while, Barca is looking on the side of history, since being on top for 3 weeks straight has more times than none lead to the league title. I'd like that. After 3 pretty good victories, some hard fought, Barca are atop the charts with 9 points, while Madrid is sitting pretty in 9th with 4 points. Don't count them out so soon though, after all, it is Madrid. But for now, I like the gap and I gladly take it. Given the current drama, I'm excited to see where this season goes. Boy has it started off with a bang!

Bye bye for now.

Lisa,

Football goddess, sports junkie, Barca girl

Et Tu Robin van Persie? Et tu?

Today, Arsenal Football club confirmed that they are letting their captain and let's face it their star player, Dutchman Robin van Persie go, and to who but their rivals Manchester United Football Club.

Arsenal today confirmed the closure of dealings estimated at 24M pounds, with a 4 yr contract, leading to gooners asking WHY?????  

The move had been rumoured but today was sealed with the question Et tu Robin?

Futher questions....RVP- Benedict Arnold, Judas, Brutus, Traitor, Treasonous scum? Or just a guy trying to win and further his career?

I guess only time will tell. My heart goes out to all the Arsenal fans, particularly Piers Morgan lol.

Well RVP from your friendly football goddess, I wish you the best of luck cause I like you. Hope you dont get lost in the crowd at Old Trafford.

• Robin van Persie - Arsenal 2012

Spain Reign Victorious: Euro 2012

For the first time in history, Spain are the 1st team to retain their European title after they won Euro 2012 after a 4-0 trouncing of Italy, the goals coming from David Silva, Jordi Alba, Fernando Torres and Juan Mata... Yes Juan Mata!! Spain are also the 1st team to win 3 consecutive championships: Euro 2008, World cup 2010 and Euro 2012.

It was an amazing game. The 1st goal really got the game going after Cesc Fabregas set up a precise cross which finds Silva's head on the end. Spain 1-0

2nd goal. Jordi Alba run into a large amount of Spain and buries his shot.

Half Time

3rd goal. Fernando Torres comes on as substitution for Fabregas and runs pass his opponents to beat Buffon the Italian keeper. Beautiful shot.

After being subbed in with 4 minutes left in regular time for Iniesta, Torres unselfishly sets up a chance for Juan Mata. He buries it. In his first appearance of the entire competition Juan Mata scores!!!!! JUAN!!!

With all this, it would be remiss of me to not mention the ENTIRE Spanish team! You go guys!! Special thanks also to St. Iker Casillas for an AMAZING tournament and the vital saves through out the tournament and especially tonight!!!!


SPAIN WINS 4-0!!!!!! VIVA ESPANA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Euros concludes until 4yrs time and I couldn't have written a better ending.

Thanks Poland and Ukraine. I had a blast!!!!

Till next time!

Lis

This just in! Spain vs. Italy finals for Euro 2012

WOW!!! Just wow!! After a rousing month of football, Euro 2012 will end this Sunday with a finals between Spain and yes...Italy! Who'd have thought!! Spain the early favourites, secured their space, after defeating Portugal 0-0 (4-2 pen), Cesc Fabregas to score the winning penalty, as he did in 2008 against Italy. Who would then think that Italy would be sitting pretty in the finals? After what some would call an upset, some thinking Germany might have steamrolled Italy, Italy would defeat Germany 2-1, Mario Balotelli scoring 2 GREAT goals to seal it. FANTASTIC!!!

So there you have it!!!!! SPAIN vs. ITALY!!! in the finals of EURO 2012! WONDERFUL!!!!

Next match... The finals

Sunday July 1, 1:00pm with Pre Match coverage, Match time 1:45

Be there or disappear. It's what the world will be talking about!!

Adios! Salute!!

Lis

Semi finalists for Euro 2012 decided

HOT OFF THE PRESS!! Italy wins on penalties (4-2) against England to secure their place in the semi finals. But Italy weren't the only ones. Last week Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal, St. Iker Casillas and Spain and Phillip Lahm and Germany also secured a place in the final four.

As it stands, the next match up are as follows:

Portugal vs. Spain in a clash of the Iberian peninsula, the Iberian derby and
Germany vs. Italy, which will prove to be an epic encounter.

Who do you think will be in the finals??? I'm excited!

Remember there are no matches tomorrow or Tuesday

Next match up
Wednesday June 27, 2012 1:30pm Spain vs. Portugal

Round of 8 decided: UEFA Euro 2012

People, people, people! It is finished and it has been decided!!! The round of 8, the quarter finals, after some great matches, had been decided. Here it goes:

Czech Republic vs. Portugal
Germany vs. Greece
Spain vs. France
England vs. Italy.

Group Leaders: Group A: Czech Republic, Group B: Germany, Group C: Spain, Group D: England.

Its been a great tournament so far and looking forward to some more stellar matches.

Remember, there is no football tomorrow!

Next Match.
Thursday, June 21, 2012, 1:30pm:  Czech Republic vs. Portugal

Who do you think has it? Cristiano and the Portuguese or Cech and the Czechs?

I think it could go either way, so i'm excited!!!

See ya then!

Lis.

The giants draw while Shevchenko writes Ukraine's Show Stopping Premiere

The final day of the opening stages of the UEFA Euros 2012, would be a wonderful day of football. The first match up of group D would start out with England vs. France. A game some thought would be difficult for England, given its recent selection controversies and missing key players like Rooney and Lampard really wasn’t so bad after all. While France would dominate, England would defend their hearts out, capitalize on a few errors and gladly settle with a 1-1 draw with the French at the final whistle. The Ukraine vs. Sweden match would be more than eventful, more than exciting, amazing in fact! Major Oppounities strewn in the 1^st half and great chance to capitalize, but the 1^st half would end a square 0-0. The 2^nd half? Utterly golden! Remarkable! Early half goal for both teams, Shevchenko and the Ukraine to steal the whole thing winning 2-1! Ukraine’s 1^st ever Euros! What a start!

Here’s a glimpse of what happened between France and England:

Both teams came out pressing, playing well. The 1^st real opportunity would come for England. With an open goal for England to score, Milner fails to hit the target, stabbing it into the side netting. Lost opportunity to put England 1 up.

England’s sighs wouldn’t last too long. Minute 29, Lescott scores from a header off a spectacular Steven Gerrard free kick.

France would try to get back in it. Minute 34, Diarra for France takes a go at it. Joe Hart, England’s keeper does well to deny the equalizer.

It would be soon before long for France. Samir Nasri!!! Sami stabs home a long range effort for France, for the equalizer.

Half time France 1-1 England.

The second half would be less eventful. Both teams figuring each other out enough to shut down their opportunities.

Minute 63: Karim Benzema tries to steal it for France with a long range effort. Joe Hart would not be caught.

Full time England 1-1 France.

The Ukraine vs Sweden match up, boring on paper would be anything but. Opportunities’ wagon turned over, the spoils waiting to be capitalized on.

Here’s a bit how that went:

Both teams would have a tonne of opportunities, though Ukraine would have better breaks.

Best opportunity in the 1^st half for Ukraine would come in the 23^rd minute for Shevchenko. His shot goes just wide!

Best opportunity for Sweden in the 1st would come from no one else but Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who heads a try away, it goes just off the post.

Half time Ukraine 0-0 Sweden.

The second half would be just spectacular!

Minute 51, Ibrahimovic of Sweden would open scoring up with a smart, sensational shot.

NOT SO FAST SWEDEN! Just 3 minutes later in minute 54, Shevchenko of Ukraine would equalize!

If it wasn’t going to be these guys, I don’t know who it was going to be.

Minute 61: Its Shevchenko again!!! GOAL!! Beautiful header! Ukraine now 1 goal up!

Ibrahimovic would try for the equalizer in the 76^th minute. His shot is on target! Ukraine’s goal keeper makes a worthy save!

Sweden would fail to get back in it.

Full time: Ukraine 2-1 Sweden.

Great games! Ukraine vs. Sweden probably the best of the competition so far!

Next match ups:

Tuesday June 11 10:45am Czech Republic vs. Greece

Tuesday June 11 1:30pm Poland vs. Russia

Enjoy!!

Lis

St. Iker and the Irish flop: Day 3 Euro 2012

Day 3 of the Euros 2012 didn’t disappoint! Fantastic games featuring Spain vs Italy and Ireland vs Croatia. The match up featuring Spain and Italy, decent goals, decent skill, excellent saves and ended a fair 1-1. The only shocker of today was Ireland’s utter spanking by Croatia. Ireland goes down 3-1.

Here’s a few highlights from the Spain vs Italy clash:

Both teams would start out playing well. Spain with an interesting formation of no identifiable strikers.

In the 19^th minute, Italy would try to open it up. Iker Casillas has to make a wonderful save to deny them.

Both teams continue to press, unable to break down each other’s defence.

43^th minute Iniesta tries a shot to trick the keeper. It goes over the bar.

44^th A brilliant header by Motta of Italy,  an even more brilliant save by Iker Casillas!

Half time Italy 0-0 Spain.

Both teams came out starting out positively.

2 opportunities for Spain from Iniesta and Fagregas.

51^st minute, after a mistake from Sergio Ramos, the ball is taken by Balotelli of Italy. One on one with Casillas, Balotelli goal gazes a bit too long and is disposed by Ramos in the box.

In the 60^th minute, Di Natale, subbed in for Balotelli, pills the trigger for Italy. GOAL!!

Italy’s triumph would not last long. In the 63^rd minute, Cesc Fabregas of Spain would make a perfectly timed run, resulting in a goal.

74 th minute Torres gets a golden ball, the Italian keeper does well to tackle it from him.

Full time Spain 1-1 Italy.

The second game, which some thought might be a drag, was in fact just the opposite. An Irish spanking by a Croatia I don’t think anyone saw coming.

Here’s a little view:

Minute 2:44 Croatia opens up scoring by  Mandzukic. A mistake by the Irish keeper who was very indecisive. Fastest goal of the tournament so far!

Minute 18: Sean St. Ledger of Ireland equalizes! Game on!

The pressure would not be off Ireland for long. Minute 22 Ireland’s keeper has to make a good save from distance.

Just before the half, minute 42, Croatia scores again! Jelavic!

Half time, Ireland 2-1 Croatia.

Minute 48: Goal for Croatia again. Mandzukic again!

After several opportunities for Ireland, headers on end going to Andrews, It’s all over people!

Full time Ireland 1-3 Croatia.

Brilliant match ups!

Next match ups

Monday June 10 England vs France 10:45am

Monday June 10 Ukraine vs Sweden 1:30pm

Be there!

Lis

Group of Death not looking so lethal: An upset and late goal

Day 2 of the Euros wasn't what I expected. I was expecting goals, cards and controversy. What I got was slightly underwhelming in terms of goals, but not in excitement. While both matches were excellent, both would produce an astounding 2 goals ONLY, from a truck load of opportunities. The victors, Denmark (a bit of a shocker) coming out of the clash with the Netherlands and Germany, against a decent looking Portugal, headed by golden boy Cristiano Ronaldo.

Here's a few Highlights from the Denmark vs Netherlands clash

Both team would start off well. The Netherlands however with the lion's share of the possession.

Despite this, after several squandered chances by the Dutch, in minute 23, Krohn- Dehli of Denmark opens up scoring.

In minute 35, Arjen Robben of the Netherlands would try to equalize. His shot hits the post. Having Van Persie to his left, perhaps a selfish shot?

The Netherlands go to half time 1 down.

Several chances would break for the Netherlands in the first 8 minutes of the second half. Attempts by Van Persie, Van Bommel and Affelay. Nothing results!

In the 73th minute Huntelaar, brought on the breathe new life, finds himself in the box to break for the Dutch. The Danish keeper however is quick to collect the ball, he then loses it and is in the process fouled, voiding Van Persie's follow up attempt.

Despite all of the possession and opportunities, the match ends full time Denmark 1-0 Netherlands. The Danes stealing 3 points in the first real upset of the Euros 2012.

The Portugal vs Germany match was one that left the fans upset, glad, mad, cursing, on the edge of their seat, hands in the air. Plenty of opportunities and close calls.

Here's a few highlights.

Both teams started out brightly. Both playing hard and defending and creating opportunities. Pretty equally matched. Not quite the Portuguese massacre people had predicted.

Up until the 44th minute both teams were square. However, in this minute, Pepe hit a wonder strike to attempt to open up scoring. The ball hits the post and bounces on the line. The ball doesn't cross! No goal! Portuguese fans are up, pulling their hair in disbelief, urging their team onward!

Half time Portugal 0-0 Germany.

At the very start of the second half, Germany would be out the gates, guns blazing in a spectacular series of attacks. Portugal would do well to resist them.

In the 72nd minute, Portugal could no longer deny what seemed inevitable. Mario Gomez of Germany scores a text book header.

Portugal would spend the remainder of the match trying to equalize, the best opportunity coming in the 87th minute. Close but no cigar.

Full time: Germany 1-0 Portugal

Wonderful day of football!

Next match ups

Sunday June 10 Spain vs Italy 10:45 am

Sunday June 10, Croatia vs Ireland 1:30pm

See you there!

Lis.

Red Cards, Penalty, Controversy and Goals Galore: Euro 2012 starts off HOT HOT HOT!!

Surely no one thought the 1st day of the Euros would be so exciting and BOY! did it not disappoint. The day started off with Poland v.s Greece, a game racked with cards and controversy.


Here's a little how it went:


The game started off a little slowly, but in minute 16, Lewandowski of Poland opens up scoring. Poland are up 1-0.


Minute 43, the landscape of the game changes when  Papastathapolous is sent off after another soft yellow card. Gone. HARSH! Greece are down to 10 men.


In added time, there is a handball in Greece's penalty area. The call is not given.


Greece are 1-0 at half time. Down to 10 men.


Greece would not be defeated! In minute 51. Greece equalizes!  Dimitris Salpingidis makes it 1-1


Minute 68 schezny, Poland's Goal keeper IS GONE!! Red card for a foul in the box and Penalty for Greece!


Minute 71  Sub keeper Tyton saves from Karagounis! WHAT A GAME!!


In minute 73 Greece finds the back of the net, but the goal is offside by a hair!


Full time Poland 1- 1 Greece. Both take away 1 point in the opener!




The following match between Russia and the Czech Republic would be much less exciting, but you couldn't tell from the scoreline. Russia 4-1 Czech Republic.


A few highlights from that game:


Minute 14, Russia opens up the scoring with Dzagoev scoring a beautiful goal.


Just shortly after in minute 23, Shirokov of Russia would add a second. Russia now 2 up.


Half time, Russia 2-0 Czech Republic.


The Czechs would not take it laying down! In minute 51, a cool finish by Pilar of the Czech Republic find them self back in the game. Score Russia 2-1 Czech Republic.


The Czech come back would last too long. In minute 78 Dzagoev of Russia scores again!


To add insult to injury, Pavyluchenko of Russia makes the score an interesting 4-1


Full Time Russia 4-1 Czech Republic.


WHAT A START!!  The Euros are off with a bang!! \0/


Next match ups: Group B: Group of death


Tomorrow Sat June 9 10:45 Denmark v The Netherlands
Tomorrow Sat June 9 1:45 Germany v Portugal


See you There!

Barcelona: Continuing to run through the competition

Despite still being 6 points behind Madrid in the league, Barcelona are continuing to run through the competition. Today would be no different when they dominated overall to defeat Athletic Bilbao 2-0 at the Camp Nou. Both teams would play a phenomenal game, but Barcelona would be victorious!

Here's how the match went!

Both team would start out pressing hard. But in the first 2 minutes Barcelona would practically dominate possession.

In the 3rd minute, Alexis would take a shot at goal but he is denied.

The Barcelona press would continue. In the 4th minute Pique would take a shot at goal, but it goes just high.

It was all Barcelona up to the 7th minute where Thiago's shot finds the back of the Athletico goal, but is ruled offside.

By the 22nd minute, it would be sure that it was all Barca all day. Andres Iniesta nearly picks up a wonderful pass in the box, but not quite.

Still Barcelona! Minute 23, Adriano takes a shot at goal, but it is off target.

In minute 24, Athletico would be saved by their keeper with a wonderful effort to deny Leo Messi. Athletico's defense falls asleep in the box.

BIG SAVE in the 25th minutes!!!!!!! Ortineche of Athletico saves a shot from Gerard Pique right off the goal line. What a save! That shot was definitely going in. Big save to deny Barca's 1st.

Its still Barcelona! In minute 27 Andres Iniesta takes a shot on goal, but it is saved. Athletico's keeper is doing phenomenally!

By minute 32 Athletico would start to get into the game.

Minute 39: GGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLL!!!!!!!! Gol, Gol, Gol! Andres Iniesta stabs home Barca's 1st with an assist from Leo Messi. Beautiful!

Barcelona domination would continue. In minute 41, Leo Messi takes a shot at goal, but it is saved by the keeper.

Its still Barca! Minute 42, Adriano takes a shot at goal, but it is saved!

Half Time!!!

Athletico starts the 2nd half pressing hard. In minute 47, a free kick is conceded by Barca. The shot is taken and a scramble ensues in front of the goal. Barca is lucky not to concede a goal!

In minute 49, Barca would change the tide. Leo Messi gets a great ball, but it is blocked by Javi Martinez, who has been throwing himself in front of shots all night!

In minute 52, Messi's shot finds the back of the net, but it is offside.

In minute 54, Tello takes a shot on goal, but it is saved by the Athletico keeper.

Minute 57: PENALTY!!!!! Foul on Tello!!

Minute 57: GGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOAAAAAAALLLLLLL!!!!!! Leo Messi capitalizes on the penalty for Barca's 2nd.

Barca would continue to show their dominance. In minute 67, Iniesta takes a shot, but it is deflected for a corner.

Off the corner in the 68th minute, Pique gets a head to it, but misjudges slightly. It is no trouble for the keeper.

In the 73rd minute Messi would be searching for another, he takes a shot on goal, But it is saved!

In minute 79, Gerard Pique would be Barcelona's saviour!! He saves a shot off the goal line after Victor Valdes misses it! Absolutely beautiful!! BIG SAVE!!!!

In minute 88, Messi picks out a beautiful pass to find Keita, but he is denied by the cross bar!

2 minutes of added time.

In minute 90:30, Pedro hopes to seal the deal with 3 for Barca. He is denied by Athletico's keeper

Barcelona wins 2-0

Match Highlights

Beautiful clearance off the goal line in the 25th minute by Ortineche.

Equally beautiful clearance of the goal line by Pique in the 79th minute to keep a clean sheet for Barca.

Match Facts

By the 74th minute Barca had taken 20 shot at goal, 13 on target to Athletico's 0, 0 shots.

This game marks Leo Messi 56th goal for the season.

Hope you enjoyed!!

Ciao!

Lisa,

Football goddess, Sports junkie, Barca girl.

Leo Messi smashes Cesar's record on a hat trick against Granada

Leo Messi, at the helm of Barcelona, smashes Cesar's record to become Barcelona's all-time highest goal scorer. The match wasn't easy when Barcelona gave up a 2 nil lead and had to fight to get back into the match. Granada would however only be a brief obstacle on their way to a 5-3 victory.

Here's how the match went:

In minute 1, there was an early chance for Granada after a mistake from Dani Alves, the shot goes wide.

Minute 3: GGGGOOOOOOAAAAALLLLL!!!!! XAVI!! Xavi chips in a cheeky goal headed back to him by Leo Messi.

The pace would be kept high when Leo Messi takes a shot at goal in the 10th minute. Granada's keeper however scoops it up.

Minute 16: GGGGGOOOOOAAAAALLLL!!!! MESSI!! Messi scores his 232nd goal to equal Cesar's record!! Beautiful pass by Isaac Cuenca and a deflection of Gomez for a great goal.

By minute 20, it was evident that Granada was having problems. Granada can't seem to break the deadlock passing shots to ghost players.

In minute 22, there was a lovely shot into the box by Dani Alves to find a fellow Barcelona player, however it was punched out by the Granada keeper.

By minute 24, Barcelona would still be pressing hard. Alexis Sanchez takes a shot at goal that goes just high. Granada players are giving Barca players plenty of room to play.

The pressure would continue, when in minute 27 Dani Alves takes a shot at goal. It goes just wide....Where is the Granada defence???

Adriano takes a shot at goal in the 45th minute, which is no trouble for the goal keeper.

No extra time added.

Second half begins, Masherano on for Adriano.

Barca would continue playing at high tempo and in minute 52, Cuenca would pass a shot to Messi, however Messi doesn't find the target.

Minute 54: GGGOOOAAALLL!!! Granada. Diego Mines scores for Granada.

Barca would not be deterred. In the 58th minute, free kick was given to Barca. Xavi takes it. Pique heads it in but its no trouble for the Granada keeper.

Minute 59: Dani Alves concedes a penalty for a foul in the box.

Minute 61: GGGGOOOOAAALL!!! Granada 2-2

Minute 67: GGGGGGOOOOOAAAAAALLLLL!!!!! LEO MESSI!!! HALLELUJAH! Messi smashes Cesar's record. Messi, now top scorer for Barcelona at mere 24 years of age.

Barcelona in the 71st minute would make some changes. Cristian Tello and Andres Iniesta are on for Barcelona.

Minute 81: GGGGGGOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLLL!!!! TELLO! Leo cuts back for a goal which the keeper saves, however, Tello scores off a rebound.

Minute 85: GGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLLL!!!! MESSI!!!!! HAT TRICK!!!

Minute 87: Dani Alves concedes another penalty for a hand ball. On his 2nd yellow card he is sent off. Barca are down to 10 men.

Minute 89: GGGOOOAAALLLL! Granada!!

Three minutes of added time.

Barcelona wins 5-3 to Granada.

Match Highlights:

Leo Messi surpasses Cesar's record for top goal scorer for Barcelona, scoring his 234th for Barcelona.

Grenada's comeback frm a 2-0 deficit.

Dani Alves conceding two penalties to be sent off, leaving Barca down to 10 men

Match Facts:

Xavi's goal in the 3rd minute was the fastest goal of his whole career.

Granada is only 4th team against which Barca has conceded 2 penalties

Leo Messi on his 4th hat trick in recent weeks

Leo Messi, in this match, surpasses Cristiano Ronaldo, now holding 35 goals of the season.

This match puts Barca only 5 points behind Real Madrid for La Liga.

Hope you enjoyed!!

Ciao,

Lisa

Football Goddess, Sports Junkie, Barca Girl

Chelsea FC's fight to the finish to the last 8 of the Champion's League

Well.... What an exciting game! Phenomenal! After going behind 1-3 on the 1st leg to Napoli, Chelsea fans wondered aimless as to how they would overturn such a deficit. What fortune! The football gods responded in a way in Chelsea favour, only the die hardest fan could predict. Today would be the day for Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea are through to the final 8 of the Champion's League, after a gripping game which went into extra time, the result, a sweet 4-1 (5-4) on aggregate.

Here's how the match went.

The match started off fairly high pressing. The 1st opportunity, would come to Chelsea when Sturridge would try his foot a goal. The shot was kept out by the Napoli keeper.

By the 16th minute, Napoli would try to put Chelsea even further behind and start scoring off. However Cech, the Chelsea keeper, handles this attempt well.

Minute 27: GGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLLL!!!! CHELSEA!! Ramirez sends a shot to Drogba, who heads it home! Chelsea puts its 1st dent in overturning the deficit.

In minute 33, Cavani of Napoli has an excellent chance at goal after the Chelsea defense is caught sleeping momentarily. He fires a shot off, practically 1 and 1 with Cech. The shot goes just wide.

Sturridge would try to put a further dent in the deficit in the 35th minute. However, he heads it just wide.

By minute 40, Chelsea players would be all over, trying to create an upset before the half. Essien takes a long range shot, which very almost finds the target. It goes just wide.

1 minute of added time. Half time whistle.

Minute 47: GGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOAAAAALLLLLLL!!! El Capitan, big boss John Terry heads in a fantastic goal taken off a Frank Lampard Corner. Chelsea now 2-0 (3-3) on aggregate. Chelsea wraps up nicely to be tried now with Napoli.

Minute 54: GGGGGGGGGOOOOOAAAALLLL!! Inler of Napoli would answer to try to defeat Chelsea's chances. Score 2-1 (3-4) on aggregate. Napoli pulls ahead again.

By minute 67, Chelsea would be looking to pick up the slack for the 2nd time! Drogba attempts an excellent close range effort. Napoli's keeper does well to deny him.

Minute 74: PENALTY TO CHELSEA!!!!! Lampard sets up to take it.

Minute 75: GGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOAAAAALLLLLLL!!! FRANK LAMPARD!!! Frank gets Chelsea back in the game for the 2nd time. The score now 3-1 (4-4) on aggregate. Chelsea are back in it!!

End of normal time. 90 minutes played. Score (4-4) on aggregate. EXTRA TIME!!!!!! * Bursts into fits of excessive sweating!!* THIS MATCH IS HOT!!

In extra time both teams would be searching for that fate sealing goal to break the tie.

Minute 105: GGGGGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLL!!!!!

Superior goal from Ivanovic after a stellar cut through pass from Drogba, to seal it for Chelsea. Match score now 4-1 (5-4) on aggregate.

2 minutes of added time to extra time. Final whistle!

CHELSEA ARE THROUGH!!! (5-4) on aggregate Chelsea defeats Napoli to secure a space in the final 8.

Match Highlights:

Chelsea's comeback after a 3-1 deficit at the 1st leg.

Match signifies Chelsea's third straight win since interim manager Rob Di Matteo's arrival and Andre Boas Villas sacking.

Match Facts:

Fernando Torres has now played the equivalent of a straight day of playing (24 hours) without scoring.

Hope you enjoyed!

Ciao,

Lisa

Football goddess, Sports Junkie, Barca Girl.

Swiss Slaughter: Basel FC's fairy tale ground to dust in Germany

WHAT A MATCH!!!!! I cannot believe the slaughter that just took place in Germany. Basel FC, which kicked Manchester United out of the Champion League, was just executed in a way most terrible. After winning the 1st leg of the Champion's League knock out, 1-0 over Bayern Munich, they were guillotined, after Bayern handed them a 7-0 thrashing to snuff out Basel fairly tale, the meetings between the 2 ending at an almost shameful 7-1 on aggregate. I don't think I'd have been quite as surprised if this wasn't the team that defeated the great United.

Here's how the match went.

The match was intense from the very beginning. In minute 1, Bayern takes a shot which is saved by Basel's keeper.

The pressing would continue when in the 3rd minute, when Bayern would be awarded a corner. However, this shot, taken by Robben doesn't bother Sommer, the Basel keeper.

By the 5th minute, a wonderful play occurs between Muller and Robben of Bayern, but Sommer is quick to catch it. Again in the 5th minute, Robben would break away to take a shot, however, it goes just wide.

Minute 10: GGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOAAAAALLLLLLL!! Flag stays down against Robben. Where was the Basel defense!!!!!??? Bayern 1-0 up.

Bayern wouldn't be stopped. In the 11th minute there opens up an excellent chance to Bayern. The Basel keeper denies Gomez TWICE. Excellent keeping!

Between the 33rd and 36 minutes, Basel would receive 2 corners. However both are saved by Neuer, the Bayern Keeper.

In the 39th minute, Basel would have its 1st real break away. Alex Frei however cannot keep the ball down.

Minute 41: GGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOAAAAALLLLLL!!!!!! Muller!!!! Robben does well to find Muller, who side foots the ball into the net. Bayern 2-0 up

Minute 43: GGGGGGGOOOOOOAAAAALLLLL!!!! Mario Gomez taps in a shot off a corner. Bayern 3-0 up

2 minutes of added time. Half time.

Basel are looking to reply with a corner at minute 46. However, nothing.

Minute 49: GGGGGGGGOOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLL!!!!! Gomez again!! Franck Ribery finds Gomez who gets a great touch on the ball into the back of Sommer's net. Bayern 4-0 up

Minute 60: GGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLLL!!!!! GOMEZ does it again!!!! HAT TRICK!!!!! Assisted again by Ribery. Bayern 5-0 up

By minute 62, Basel were searching! GOAL? No. Alex Frei gets a shot in, but it is disallowed as a whistle went earlier for handball. It was wrongly called.

Basel, searching, sees Strella take a shot at goal. It however doesn't bother Neuer.

Minute 66: GGGGGGGOOOOOAAAALLLLLL!!!! GOMEZ!!! He does it again for his 4th goal of the evening, Ribery with the assist again. Bayern 6-0 up

In minute 76, Basel would have to try a last ditch attempt. Stoker sets up a nice shot for Alex Frei, who heads it just wide.

Minute 80: GOOOOOOOOAAAAAAALLLLLL! Robben!!! Robben scores after a well timed, well executed pass by Sebastian Schweinstieger. Bayern 7-0 up

2 minutes of added time. Final whistle.

Bayern Munich creams Basel FC 7-0, (7-1) on aggregate.

Match Highlights

Stellar performance by Mario Gomez picking up 4 goal

Excellent performance by Arjen Robben as well the start scoring off, and bank 2 for Bayer.

Thomas Muller's return to scoring to take Bayern ahead to (2-1) on aggregate.

Wonderful assisting by Franck Ribery.

Match Facts

Gomez's performance puts him 1 goal behind Leo Messi of Barcelona, for most goals scored in a Champion's League match.

By the 11th minute Bayern's dominance could be seen. They took 11 shots, 11 being on target, to Basel's 1 shot, which was off target.

This game saw Mario Gomez's 11th hat trick over the last 17 months of competition.

WHAT A GAME!! Absolutely phenomenal!

Ciao,

Lisa

Football goddess, Sports junkie, Barca girl.

Arsenal takes off at the last minute at Emirates Stadium

WHAT A GAME!!!!! My goodness. What a game! For the very beginning, this game was setting up to be a showdown. Early goals from both Arsenal and New Castle would make the match even more intense. By the end of regular time it would be even more gripping for Arsenal and New castle fans, both teams pressing to break the tie. The luck would turn however in Arsenal's favour at the very last minute.... Literally. A latee goal in the 94th minute would seal a 2-1 victory for Arsenal at home.

Here's how the match went:

The drama would start from the very beginning when Demba Va of New Castle almost opened up scoring in the 1st minute. His shot would however be denied.

The high pressing of both teams would be seen in the 2nd minute when following a breakaway run from Theo Watcott, Walcott sends a excellent cross to Van Persie, that just misses him.

In the 4th minute an error in the New Castle defense would almost see scoring opening up with a shot from Robin Van Persie. He just misses.

Minute 13: GGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOAAAAALLLLLLL! Superb shot by Ben Arfa of New Castle to open up scoring.

Minute 14: GGGGGGGGOOOOOAAAAALLLLLLLL!!!!! Robin Van Persie equalizes for Arsenal. WHAT A SHOT!! WHAT A GAME!!!

By the 20th minute, both teams would be searching for a second. However at that point, New Castle concedes a dangerous free kick. RVP strikes a stringing free kick right into the hands of the keeper.

In the 30th minute Demba Va would take a shot at goal. While going wide, it would also have been disallowed if scored as the offside flag was lurking behind.

The pace by minute 42 had slowed, but at this point a corner for Arsenal would be conceded. The free kick was taken and an opportunity almost materializes for arsenal, but Theo Walcott's shot it kept out by the New Castle defense.

Half time.

The pace of the game would continue strong. In minute 48, Rosicky of Arsenal takes a headed attempt at goal, but it is saved by New Castles keeper.

In minute 54, a beautiful build up by Arsenal. Van Persie makes an attempt at goal, but it is held by New Castle's keeper.

Minute 65: RVP takes an excellent shot on goal! Denied again!

The heat would turn up even hotter in minute 67, when an error by New castle defenders finds Theo Walcott with the opportunity to make a great pass to Rosicky who is in tons of space. Rosicky fails to capitalize. WHAT A MISS!!! WHAT A MISS!

In minute 79, Van Persie in search of his second, takes a shot at goal! It goes just wide.

Minute 82, another Arsenal player would miss a golden opportunity. Wowza Gervinho! WHAT A MISS!

By minute 84, both teams would be a in frenzy for the tie breaker. An opportunity would fall to Arsenal's feet, but it would be cleanly and swiftly swept away from New Castle's goal line.

In minute 86 Ramsey, subbed on, would take a shot at goal. However, it would be deflected away for a corner. Nothing from that corner.

By minute 89, both teams were searching frantically for the tie breaker. The best opportunity would come for Arsenal after a wonderful build up after an error. The shot is just tipped over New Castle's goal by the keeper.

5 minutes of stoppage time added.

In minute 90, Theo Waclcott would try to be the saviour. He takes shot which is blocked. He claims for handball. The officials rightly called a corner and not handball. Nothing amounts from the corner.

Minute 94: GGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLLLLLL!!!!!! Vermaelen would seal it for Arsenal. He comes from out of thin air and spirits to score the tie breaker

Arsenal Wins 2-1 to New Castle

Match highlights:

52 second between the 1st and 2nd goals.

Excellent defending by New Castle and their goal keeper to deny Arsenal more.

Terrific last minute goal by Vermaelen.

Match Facts:

This match take Arsenal squarely into 4th place in the league above Chelsea and they are just 1 point adrift 3rd place.

This match signifies that Arsenal are the 1st team ever to come from behind to win 4 games in a row.