SPORTING

‎Barcelona booked their place in the Copa del Rey final with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium on Wednesday, securing a 5-4 aggregate win. Ferran Torres' first-half strike was the difference, as the Blaugrana now prepare for a highly anticipated final against Real Madrid. ‎ Barcelona triumph at Atletico Madrid to reach Copa del Rey final. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎The match began in a similar vein to the thrilling 4-4 draw in the first leg, with both teams attacking freely. Early drama saw Atletico’s Cesar Azpilicueta undergo a VAR review for a possible red card after fouling Barcelona’s Raphinha in the opening minutes. However, the referee opted for just a yellow card. ‎ ‎Barcelona’s breakthrough came just before the half-hour mark when Lamine Yamal delivered a perfectly timed pass to Ferran Torres. The stand-in striker, replacing the injured Robert Lewandowski, coolly slotted the ball into the bottom corner to give Barcelona a crucial ...

‎Football’s global reach means that every second of the day, somewhere in the world, the beautiful game continues in myriad forms—whether it’s a last-minute goal, a viral social media post, or a friendly match among friends. The dynamic nature of the sport, with its constant drama, offers endless entertainment, making it impossible to keep up with every moment. It's often the smallest, yet most compelling events—such as a fan’s unique perspective on a penalty save or an intense moment between rivals—that capture the true essence of football. ‎ ‎' L. Messi ' Ft. ' C. Ronaldo. ' ‎ Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎At SPORTING, we've launched a live blog to help you keep track of all these captivating snippets, highlighting the best of social media and the most interesting football stories of the past 24 hours. Below are some of the standout moments: ‎ ‎2nd April: Granit Xhaka’s Heated Exchange with Leverkusen Fan Following Shocking Defeat ‎ ‎In what can be describe...

‎Simon Jordan has issued a cautionary warning to Aston Villa regarding the potential permanent signing of Marcus Rashford this summer. Despite the England forward’s impressive performance during his loan spell from Manchester United, Jordan believes Villa will be reluctant to meet the financial demands associated with the deal. ‎ ‎' Marcus Rashford. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Rashford has made a strong impact since his loan move to Villa Park, scoring two goals and providing four assists in just 10 appearances. His standout performance came over the weekend when he netted twice in a commanding 3-0 victory over Preston North End, propelling Villa into the FA Cup semi-finals. ‎ ‎However, Jordan, speaking on talkSPORT, expressed skepticism about Villa's willingness to commit to the reported £300,000-per-week wages Rashford currently commands at United. Despite Villa reportedly holding an option to make the move permanent for £40 million ($52 million), the financial package...

‎Liverpool should consider making an ambitious move for Bayern Munich's star striker, Harry Kane, in the upcoming summer transfer window, according to legendary Rangers and Scotland forward Ally McCoist. ‎ ‎' Harry Kane. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Speaking on talkSPORT, McCoist encouraged Liverpool to test Bayern Munich's resolve and make a serious bid for the England captain. This recommendation follows recent rumors linking the Premier League leaders to a surprise move for Kane. With key players potentially leaving Anfield this summer, McCoist believes signing the prolific forward would significantly strengthen Liverpool's attack. ‎ ‎Liverpool are facing a challenging summer ahead. The club is bracing for the potential departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is reportedly set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer. Meanwhile, Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk are also in contract negotiations, with the possibility of both leaving the club for nothing if terms are ...

‎Former Liverpool star Joe Cole has called on the club to pursue England captain Harry Kane as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, should the Egyptian winger leave Anfield this summer. With Salah's contract set to expire at the end of the current season and no extension yet on the table, the future of the Reds' star forward remains uncertain. ‎ ‎' Mohamed Salah. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Cole, who made a name for himself at both Chelsea and Liverpool, believes that signing Kane would send a strong message and would be a solid move for Liverpool. Speaking to Paddy Power, Cole emphasized the need for a “statement footballer” to replace Salah, highlighting Kane’s goal-scoring prowess and ability to win trophies as key attributes that would benefit Jurgen Klopp's side. ‎ ‎Since joining Bayern Munich from Tottenham in 2023, Kane has been performing admirably, but his name has again surfaced in the transfer gossip with a potential return to the Premier League....

‎Lille striker Jonathan David is set to be one of the most sought-after free agents in the upcoming summer transfer window, with his contract expiring at the season’s end. However, his high wage demands could complicate interest from major Premier League clubs, including Manchester United and Liverpool. ‎ ‎' Jonathan David. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎The Canadian international has made it clear he will not be renewing his deal with the Ligue 1 side, making him available for a free transfer in the summer. According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, as reported by Get French Football News, David's demands could deter several suitors. Specifically, Premier League giants, such as Manchester United and Liverpool, may reconsider their pursuit due to his substantial financial requirements. ‎ ‎Earlier reports, including from The Daily Mail, highlighted that up to seven Premier League clubs had shown interest in David, including Chelsea, Arsenal, West Ham, Newcastle, and Tottenham....

‎Manchester United's manager, Ruben Amorim, is reportedly determined to retain Bruno Fernandes at Old Trafford, despite mounting interest from Real Madrid. According to the Daily Star, the Spanish club has been closely monitoring Fernandes' performances, with scouts attending nearly every match he plays. Real Madrid sees the Portugal international as a potential successor to Luka Modric, who is nearing the end of his illustrious career. ‎ ‎' Ruben Amorim ', ' Bruno Fernandes. ' ‎Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎Amorim is eager to keep Fernandes in Manchester, having recognized the midfielder's pivotal role in the team's success. However, United may be forced to part ways with their star player due to ongoing financial issues. The club has struggled with its finances, and the sale of Fernandes could provide the necessary funds to strengthen the squad during the upcoming transfer window. ‎ ‎Fernandes has been in exceptional form this season, contributing 16...

‎Inter Miami’s strategy for managing Lionel Messi’s workload in the 2025 season has been carefully outlined to ensure his continued success. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has been given a balanced schedule to maintain his peak form, with the club ensuring that he is capable of playing consecutive games without risking long-term injury. ‎ ‎' Lionel Messi. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Messi recently made a crucial impact in Inter Miami's 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Union, coming off the bench to score just two minutes after his introduction. His goal helped secure three more points for the Herons, maintaining their unbeaten start to the season. ‎ ‎Despite his impressive contribution, Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, clarified that Messi’s playing time remains closely managed. Mascherano suggested Messi would participate in the upcoming CONCACAF Champions Cup quarter-final against LAFC on Wednesday. In a recent press conference, he explained, “Th...

‎Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing Sporting CP's highly-rated defender, Goncalo Inacio, with a summer move on the horizon. According to A Bola, Inacio has long been a target for the Red Devils, who have tracked his progress over the past few years. Although United initially focused on Leny Yoro, speculation around Inacio remains, leaving room for a potential future approach. ‎ ‎' Goncalo Inacio. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Sporting CP have set a firm price tag of €45 million (£38 million / $49 million) for the 22-year-old, signaling their reluctance to part ways with the defender for anything less. United’s recent transfer strategy has focused on younger talents with long-term potential, and Inacio fits perfectly into this model. Known for his composure on the ball, ability to play out from the back, and experience at both the club and international levels, Inacio represents a promising addition to United’s defense. ‎ ‎A defensive overhaul at Old Tra...

Former Chelsea star Adrian Mutu has openly admitted that his use of cocaine during his career cost him the chance to win the prestigious Ballon d'Or, a title he believes was well within his grasp. ‎ ‎' Adrian Mutu. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Mutu’s time at Chelsea was both brief and tumultuous. After joining the club from Parma, the Romanian forward initially showed promise. However, his tenure quickly spiraled following a falling-out with manager José Mourinho and struggles with personal issues. Mutu’s career in the Premier League came to an abrupt end when he was banned for eight months after testing positive for cocaine. This incident led to his dismissal from Chelsea, marking a disgraceful end to his time in London. ‎ ‎In a candid interview with The Telegraph, Mutu reflected on his decisions and the impact they had on his career. "Taking cocaine during my time at Chelsea was the worst decision I could have made," he confessed. "I was alone and ...

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has come under pressure to make a bold decision ahead of the 2026 World Cup – replacing Cristiano Ronaldo with a younger forward to give his team the best chance of success. ‎ ‎' Cristiano Ronaldo. ' ‎ Getty Images ‎ ‎Cristiano Ronaldo, who has led Portugal to victory in both the European Championship and Nations League, has yet to capture the elusive World Cup. However, as the Al-Nassr forward turns 40, questions are being raised about his ability to compete at the highest level. His physical decline and reduced influence on the pitch are becoming increasingly apparent. ‎ ‎Several former players and pundits, including ex-Liverpool midfielder Didi Hamann, have voiced concerns over Ronaldo's place in the national team. Speaking to CardPlayer.com, Hamann noted, “Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact at the last European Championship was limited, and considering he will be another year older by the 2026 World Cup, his influence will likely de...

‎Manchester City defender Kyle Walker has reportedly made a firm decision regarding his future at AC Milan following the conclusion of his loan spell. Having joined the Serie A side in the January transfer window, the England international is expected to extend his tenure at Milan beyond this season. ‎ ' Kyle Walker. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Journalist Daniele Longo of Calciomercatoweb states that Milan hold a €5 million (£4.17m/$5.40m) purchase option for the right-back, which the club is eager to activate. Walker, who has settled well into life in Italy, is reportedly enthusiastic about continuing his career at Milan, signaling his desire to remain in Serie A rather than returning to the Premier League. ‎ ‎The move to Milan has proven beneficial for both player and club. Walker’s reduced role at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola this season made the switch to Serie A a logical solution. In contrast, at Milan, the seasoned full-back has integrated seamlessly int...

‎Manchester United has received a potential cash boost amid ongoing transfer speculation surrounding former academy graduate Mason Greenwood. Following a productive loan spell at Getafe in La Liga, the Red Devils agreed to part ways with the forward in the summer of 2024. Greenwood secured a £27 million ($35 million) transfer to French club Olympique de Marseille, where he has enjoyed a solid debut season at the Stade Vélodrome, netting 15 goals in Ligue 1. ‎ ‎' Mason Greenwood. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎However, despite his impressive performance on the field, Greenwood’s attitude has reportedly come under scrutiny by Marseille's manager Roberto De Zerbi, which has led to speculation about a possible departure. Recent rumors suggest that a move elsewhere may be on the horizon. ‎ ‎As the winter transfer window approaches, Ruben Amorim, Marseille’s manager, could potentially benefit from additional funds to strengthen his squad. Nonetheless, transfer expert Fabriz...

‎UEFA has initiated an investigation into Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Ceballos following their involvement in controversial incidents during Real Madrid’s dramatic penalty shootout victory over Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 on March 12, 2025. ‎ ' Kylian Mbappe ' and ' Vinicius Jr. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎The investigation was prompted by reports of alleged "indecent conduct" by the players, with key incidents under scrutiny. One of the most notable involves Antonio Rudiger, who was captured on camera making a throat-slitting gesture, apparently directed at Atletico Madrid fans. Meanwhile, social media footage appears to show Mbappe making a crotch-grabbing gesture during post-match celebrations. ‎ ‎As part of the disciplinary process, UEFA has appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to investigate the conduct of these players. If the investigation concludes with a guilty verdict, the invo...

AC Milan’s ongoing search for a new sporting director has created uncertainty surrounding Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s future at the club, which could have wider implications for Arsenal. According to reports from Italy, the iconic striker’s current role at Milan may be at risk as the club’s leadership undergoes a shift. ' Zlatan Ibrahimovic. ' Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Ibrahimovic, who has taken on an executive position at AC Milan as an advisor to the club’s RedBird ownership, has been a prominent figure in key footballing decisions. His influence extended to hiring coaches such as Paulo Fonseca and Sergio Conceicao, and even interviewing candidates for the sporting director role. However, his position appears to be evolving, with Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani now tasked with overseeing sporting matters after discussions with RedBird’s Gerry Cardinale. ‎ ‎The 2025-26 season could mark a turning point for Ibrahimovic’s involvement at Milan, especially as his presence has been nota...

‎Ex-Arsenal midfielder Anders Limpar has suggested that Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be the perfect candidate to replace Edu Gaspar as Arsenal's sporting director, following Edu’s surprise resignation in November 2024. Limpar described the potential acquisition of the AC Milan legend as a "dream," commending Ibrahimovic's remarkable mentality and leadership qualities. ‎ ‎' Zlatan Ibrahimovic. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Edu Gaspar’s resignation from his position as sporting director of Arsenal came in November 2024, as he decided to take on a new challenge with Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis. Reflecting on his departure, Edu expressed deep affection for Arsenal, stating, “Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.” ‎ ‎With the role of sporting director now vacant, Limpar has voiced strong support for Ibrahimovic to step in and take over the position. Currently serving in ...

‎Jadon Sancho’s return to Manchester United has sparked mixed reactions among fans, with some fearing that the winger is subtly preparing for a summer comeback. Currently on loan at Chelsea, Sancho's turbulent stint at Old Trafford has been marred by a high-profile fallout with former manager Erik ten Hag. This fallout, along with persistent off-field drama, has led many to question his future at the club. ‎ ‎' Jadon Sancho. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎However, a recent Instagram post from Manchester United has reignited speculation. The club shared a birthday message for Sancho, wishing him a happy 25th birthday alongside an image of the winger wearing a United shirt. In response, Sancho shared a positive reply on his own Instagram story, thanking the club for the birthday wish. While the exchange appeared cordial, United fans were quick to express concern over the possibility of his return. ‎ sancho/Instagram ‎ ‎“I’m dreading it, he’s coming back,” on...

‎Cristiano Ronaldo has once again etched his name in history, receiving a Guinness World Record for the most international football wins. This accolade further solidifies his legendary status in the sport. ‎ ‎' C. Ronaldo. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎In November of the previous year, Ronaldo marked yet another milestone in his illustrious career when Portugal defeated Poland 5-1. As the team’s captain, Ronaldo scored twice, bringing his international win tally to 132 and surpassing the previous record held by former Real Madrid teammate, Sergio Ramos. ‎ ‎Ahead of Portugal's Nations League quarter-final match against Denmark at Estadio Jose Alvalade, Ronaldo was formally presented with the Guinness World Record plaque, recognizing him as the player with the most wins in international football. ‎ X ‎ ‎This achievement adds to Ronaldo's extensive collection of records, including the most goals in international football, the first player to score 100 goals in...

‎Cristiano Ronaldo, the star captain of Portugal, has come under fire after his penalty miss in the Nations League quarter-final against Denmark, with many branding it the "worst penalty ever." The incident occurred early in the second leg of the match on Sunday, when Ronaldo was awarded a penalty after winning a foul in the box. Despite the high stakes—Portugal trailing 1-0 on aggregate from the first leg—Ronaldo's poorly executed spot-kick was easily saved by Denmark's goalkeeper, Kasper Schmeichel, playing for Celtic. ‎ ' C. Ronaldo. ' Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The moment quickly became the talk of social media, with fans voicing their displeasure over Ronaldo’s performance. One user, @Elmi218, commented on Twitter, "That is the worst penalty ever taken." Another fan, @kokkikumar98, was equally critical, writing, "LOL, that's the worst penalty Ronaldo has ever taken. Literally just passed the ball to the keeper." A third use...

‎The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which features 32 teams from around the globe, will proceed without Barcelona's participation. This year's tournament, expanded to accommodate teams from all major football confederations—AFC, CAF, Concacaf, OFC, and UEFA—will be held across the United States. ‎ ‎FC Barcelona 's ' Robert Lewandowski. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Among the 32 qualified teams, 12 hail from Europe, including the most recent UEFA Champions League winners: Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Chelsea. The remaining European teams were selected based on a ranking system considering their performances over the last four seasons. However, a significant restriction limits each country to two qualifying teams. As Real Madrid secured automatic entry due to their two Champions League victories in 2022 and 2024, only one other Spanish club could join. ‎ ‎Despite Barcelona's La Liga title in 2023, their lackluster performances in recent Champions League cam...