Fiorentina sign Aquilani from Liverpool

Fiorentina signed Italian midfielder Alberto Aquilani from Liverpool on Friday with media reports putting the fee at seven million euros.

"Fiorentina announces the aquisition of Borja Valero Iglesias and Gonzalo Javier Rodriguez from Villarreal Club and Alberto Aquilani from Liverpool Football Club," the club said on their official website.

Italian media suggested that Liverpool will pay part of Aquilani's salary, which has been put at as much as 1.7 million euros a season.

Aquilani has had a troubled time since signing for Liverpool from AS Roma in 2009, failing to establish himself as a dominant midfield presence in a team that struggled for form.

He has been sent back twice to Italy on loan over the last two years, first to Juventus in 2010 and then to AC Milan at the start of last season.

Despite good performances for both teams, in particular during his time at Juventus, neither club took up the offer to buy him and he returns to Serie A as a member of Vincenzo's Montella's new-look Fiorentina.

The former Roma striker excited Serie A as Catania boss last season and is hoping that Aquilani can help the Tuscan outfit improve on last season where they narrowly avoided relegation.

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FA charge Terry over alleged abuse

Chelsea captain John Terry was charged by the FA on Friday following a verbal exchange with Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand during a Premier League match last October.
England centre-back Terry, who was found not guilty of racially abusing Ferdinand in a criminal case earlier this month, has denied the charge and requested a personal hearing.
"The FA has today charged the Chelsea player following an alleged incident that occurred during the Queens Park Rangers versus Chelsea fixture at Loftus Road on 23 October 2011," said a statement on the FA website.
"It is alleged that Terry used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards Queens Park Rangers' Anton Ferdinand, contrary to FA rules.
"It is further alleged that this included a reference to the ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race of Anton Ferdinand.
"This charge is the result of The FA's long-standing enquiries into this matter, which were placed on hold pending the outcome of the criminal trial, and relates to rules governing football only," the statement added.
In evidence given during the court case, Terry admitted using highly offensive words but maintained he was sarcastically repeating what Ferdinand mistakenly thought he had said.
Explaining his verdict at the end of the five-day hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court, chief magistrate Howard Riddle said there was no doubt about the offensive words Terry used towards Ferdinand but it was impossible to be sure exactly what were the words spoken by the Chelsea player at the relevant time.
Terry was stripped of the England captaincy by the FA in February because of the allegations. That decision triggered the resignation of England's Italian manager Fabio Capello.
Capello's successor Roy Hodgson included Terry in the squad that played in Euro 2012 last month and he remains available to play for England pending the outcome of the case.

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World Cup final referee Taylor dies aged 82

English referee Jack Taylor, who awarded the first penalty in a World Cup final in 1974, has died aged 82, the Premier League said on Friday.

Taylor officiated in more than 1,000 league matches and over 100 internationals in a career spanning more than 30 years, but earned a lasting place in the history books following the 1974 FIFA World Cup final between West Germany and the Netherlands in Munich.

After only a minute of the game, and before a German player touched the ball, he awarded the Dutch a penalty after ruling that Uli Hoeness fouled Johan Cruyff. Johan Neeskens scored from the spot to give the Dutch the lead.

He awarded a second penalty 25 minutes later, this time to the Germans who equalised and went on to win the game 2-1.

Among the other major matches he refereed was the 1966 FA Cup final between Everton and Sheffield Wednesday and the 1971 European Cup final between Ajax Amsterdam and Panathinakos, both at Wembley.

He was inducted into FIFA's Hall of Fame in 1999.

Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore said he was extremely sad to hear of Taylor's death.

"Jack was one of English football's finest ambassadors who reached the pinnacle of refereeing and, until his very last days, continued to help the development of young referees," he said.

"From our first meeting he remained a constant source of encouragement and I will miss him. The game has lost a great servant and a true friend."

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Moura: I'll decide my future after Olympics

Sao Paulo midfielder Lucas Moura has revealed that he will decide his future after this summer’s Olympic Games.
The diminutive schemer is currently in London with the Brazil squad, but was an unused substitute as the tournament favourites secured a 3-2 win over Egypt.
Lucas is wanted by Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, but the Premier League outfit are believed to have had a £27 million bid rejected for the younger.
Sao Paulo director Adalberto Baptista claimed on Wednesday that negotiations surrounding a possible deal had ended and that the 19-year-old would remain in Brazil.
However, the Samba starlet has hinted that a potential move to Old Tarfford could be still be possible, but was quick to stress that he is focused on the Olympics.
"I am focusing on my team, Sao Paulo and in Brazil's national team at the moment. I'll decide my future after the Olympics," he told EFE.
Despite being forced to watch the action from the substitutes' bench, Lucas cannot wait to get some playing time under his belt.
"It's already a victory to be here. Now I have to be ready for any situation if [head coach] Mano Menezes believes I have to play," he added

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QPR capture Hoilett on four-year deal

Queens Park Rangers have confirmed the signing of Junior Hoilett on a four-year deal.
The 22-year-old's contract at Blackburn Rovers expired at the end of last season and was free to discuss his future with any potential suitors.
QPR have beaten off stiff competition to sign the winger, who netted seven times for Rovers last season.
"Junior is a player I know very well," manager Mark Hughes told the club’s official website.
"He was just a young boy trying to make his way in the game when I had him at Blackburn. It was difficult for him then because of work permit issues, but I had him training with the first-team very early on because his talent was there for all to see.
"We knew then he was going to have a great future and he's certainly showed that talent over the last few seasons at Ewood Park.
"He's shown he's a player of top quality and a player that can makes things happen, both on his own and as a team player.
"He's certainly a player that will enhance what we've got in the group and I am delighted he's chosen to come to us."
Hoilett, Hughes' seventh summer signing, added: "QPR are a club that are certainly heading in the right direction. The ambition to take this club to the next level was something I really wanted to be part of.
"The manager and the owners have huge ambitions to achieve things here and this is the perfect place for me to further my career.
"The manager obviously played a big part in my decision to come here. He's someone I know well here having worked with him and his backroom team at Blackburn.
"I signed my first professional contract under him and I will always remember that and be grateful to him. Working under such a great manager will help me to develop my skills and further my career.
"I have not achieved anything yet. I am still at the early stages of my career and have a lot to learn. As a young player it is important to stay humble, and listen to your family and friends.
"I'm really happy to be here and can't wait to pull on the Rangers shirt."

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Capello: I'd have done better than Hodgson

Fabio Capello is convinced England would have progrssed beyond the quarter-finals at Euro 2012 had he been in charge.
Under successor Roy Hodgson, the national team crashed out after losing to Italy on penalties at the last eight stage.
Capello, now in charge of Russia, left his position with England following the stripping of John Terry as captain.
And the Italian is of the opinion that they would have gone further had he been at the helm.
"If I were with your guys [England] during the European Championship, it would have been even better," he said.
"We had qualified for the finals and it was only the John Terry story that meant I couldn't go to the finals.
"Every national coach works for two years towards a goal but I was not given the opportunity to fight for the Euros with England.
"When you are told this is the goal and if you are always interfered with, then you don't feel well.
"With my contract, it was put down on paper that the decision as to who would be captain should be made only by the coach. It was down on paper, in the contract, in black and white."

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Malaga rebuff bid for Arsenal target Cazorla

Malaga have rejected a £15.6 million bid from an unnamed club for Arsenal target Santi Cazorla.
The Spain midfielder has been tipped to leave the La Liga outfit this summer, amid reports of financial difficulties within the club.
Arsenal are thought to be in pole position to sign the 27-year-old should he be made available by the Spanish side.
Head coach Manuel Pellegrini has admitted Malaga have received an offer for Cazorla, but that it falls below the £20 million valuation of him.
"There are always offers made for certain players, when it comes to team restructuring," Pellegrini told the club's official website.

"At the moment, we've been offered 20 million euros for Santi Cazorla; selling him for this amount of money is practically giving him away.
"I don't think the club has any intention of doing so; I’ve spoken to Abdullah Ghubn and the Sheikh a lot about this, and they’re not thinking about it.
"I believe it would belittle our intention to play in the Champions League, obviously getting offers for players is always worth considering, but Santi leaving here for 20 million wouldn’t look good to other teams."

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Relieved Terry focused on new season

Chelsea captain John Terry has spoken of the relief of being able to put a difficult summer behind him.
The Blues stalwart was acquitted of all charges after being accused of racially abusing QPR  Anton Ferdinand following England’s disappointing Euro 2012 campaign.
Terry was back in action for Chelsea on Wednesday, netting in the Blues' 3-2 defeat to MLS All Star.
The England international could still face an FA charge over the Ferdinand incident, but he admitted he is now focused on the upcoming season.
"I'm delighted to get back to football - concentrate on what I love doing," said Terry.
"I'm very pleased to be here with the side and concentrating on getting fit first and foremost - and cracking away early on in the season."
Chelsea have spent big this summer bringing in the likes of Marko Marin, Eden Hazard and Oscar.
And Terry has welcomed the additional investment from owner Roman Abramovich as they look to push on from their Champions League success in May.
"He's down at the training ground, he's around the hotel, he wants to know what's going on, what kind of training we are doing," he said in The Guardian.
"It is really refreshing to see and I think it's good for the new players to see that.
"You have to [spend]. There is so much money out there. Even after winning the Champions League it is so important that we keep competing. And thankfully we have got an owner who is very much prepared to do that."

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Balotelli: I would have been a UFC fighter

Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli has confessed that he would have pursued a career in the Ultimate Fighting Championship had he not been a footballer.
The controversial striker has been involved in his fair share of mishaps following his switch from Inter Milan to City in 2010.
A string of disciplinary incidents have dogged the Italy international during his time with the Premier League champions.
Balotelli has now admitted that he is a fan of mixed martial arts and was tempted to become a competitor in the sport.
"If I wasn't a footballer, I probably wanted to do UFC. I really love it," Balotelli said at an Umbro event launching the Blues' new kit.
The 21-year-old then explained his decision for choosing the number 45 with both Inter and City.
"My first game in Serie A, it was with [Roberto] Mancini, I also had No.45 because the younger players had numbers between 35 and 60.
"I got No.45 and I scored two goals, so I am lucky with 45," he added.

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Ba insists he is happy at Newcastle

Newcastle United front-man Demba Ba has insisted that he is happy on Tyneside and has denied reports claiming he will be leaving this summer.
The Senegalese striker is thought to have a £7 million release clause in his contract that can be triggered before the end of July.
Speculation has been rife regarding the 27-year-old with manager Alan Pardew possibly pre-empting a departure after pursuing both Luuk de Jong and Andy Carroll.
However, with the clause set to expire on Tuesday, Ba has spoken out to confirm he is happy at St James’ Park.
"I don't care what is being said. I think it's part of the game," he told the Newcastle Journal.
"However, I have never said anything other than I love being at Newcastle. If they hear something from me about my future, that is the truth. Otherwise, everything that is said is not true.
"The newspapers and I are not very friendly at the moment. For months and months and months, people have been talking about me, but there is nothing happening.
"Of course, I am looking forward to next season with Newcastle. We just have to build on the progress we made last season. For me, I just can't wait to start the first game."

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Koscielny reveals Barcelona interest

Laurent Koscielny snubbed interest from Barcelona in order to sign a new deal with Arsenal.
The 26-year-old was one of the Gunners' stand-out performers last season, having arrived from French side Lorient in 2010
His displays caught the eye of the Blaugrana, who are eager to strengthen their defence this summer.
However, Koscielny wants to remain at Emirates Stadium in order to further his game under manager Arsene Wenger.
"I am so happy to have signed a new contract until 2017, it means a lot, notably that the club has a lot of trust in me," he told L'Equipe. "In 2017, I will be almost old."
When asked if he was aware of the interest from Barcelona, the defender added: "Yes of course and frankly it is flattering.
"But at Arsenal I have everything; I have a great training centre, a wonderful stadium and an amazing group.
"I really want to grow here as Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira and some others did."

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Norwich seal Snodgrass signing

Norwich City have confirmed the signing of Robert Snodgrass from Leeds United on a three-year deal.
The Canaries have been linked with a move for the Scotland international over the past week.
Leeds were reluctant to sell the highly-rated winger as they push for promotion next season.
"Robert Snodgrass has completed his move to Norwich City," read a statement released on Leeds' official website.
"The Scotland international signed a three-year deal with the Canaries on Thursday evening after undergoing a medical at Carrow Road before finalising the terms of his switch to the club.
"The 24-year-old leaves Leeds United four years after arriving at the club from Livingston."

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Spurs slam Bale critics over Olympics

Tottenham Hotspur have rubbished reports suggesting Gareth Bale was made unavailable for selection for Team GB.
The Wales international was selected in Stuart Pearce's squad for the London Olympics, but sustained a back injury in the build-up to the tournament and was forced to pull out.
However, Bale featured and scored for Spurs during their recent 1-1 draw with LA Galaxy, which took place one day before Team GB's opener against Senegal.
The North London club are refusing to accept claims that they exaggerated the winger's injury in order to rule him out of contention for the competition.
"The club considers the recent comment and accusations regarding Gareth Bale's fitness relating to his non selection for Team GB's men's football team to be wholly unacceptable and unjustified," a statement read on Spurs' official website.
"For the avoidance of any doubt and on a point of absolute clarity and transparency - Gareth sustained an injury as he built up his fitness ahead of joining up with Stuart Pearce's side. MRI scan reports were sent to the FA medical team on 29 June (2012).
"He was subsequently not selected on the basis of this injury and the inability to predict recovery time
"This decision was not taken lightly and made only after consultation with Team GB's medical team, who were in agreement after seeing the medical reports.
"At no time was Gareth made unavailable for selection. Indeed, Gareth made clear publicly on numerous occasions his desire to compete for Team GB and was extremely disappointed on hearing the news he would not be fit to participate.
"He is now focused on and determined to get fit for the season ahead and to this end we have brought out an additional member of our medical team on tour, dedicated to Gareth's recovery.
"We are dismayed that some have sought to make wrongful assumptions about Gareth's particular situation and that such positive news surrounding his recovery is being highlighted in this manner.
"We trust that this statement now clarifies this matter once and for all."
British Olympic Association chairman Lord Moynihan has rejected suggestions made by FIFA President Sepp Blatter that Bale could be banned from participating in Spurs' pre-season programme throughout the duration of the Olympics.
"I don't agree with Sepp Blatter's comments about looking at banning him during the Games," he said.
"I think Sepp Blatter needs to get a bit closer to Team GB and maybe join me on the Jubilee Line early in the morning. I didn't notice him there this morning.
"It would've been helpful, because I could've explained the situation to him very clearly.
"I understand the response from some football fans who were hoping to see him play as part of Team GB.
"My view is different. I welcome the fact that, actually, he has returned from injury earlier than anticipated."

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Kranjcar leaps to Modric defence

Niko Kranjcar has hit out at Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy over the ongoing saga surrounding Luka Modric's future.
The dynamic midfielder is expected to leave Spurs this summer following the club's failure to secure Champions League football.
Modric failed to join the club on their pre-season tour of America and, despite an apology to Levy, has been fined £80,000 and forced to train with the reserves.
The likes of Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain have been linked with a move for the Croatia international, but the club are unwilling to sell for anything under the £40 million price tag.
Kranjcar has revealed his sympathy for Modric and has criticised Levy over his handling of the situation.
"I know the chairman talked to him face to face last autumn," said Kranjcar.
"Levy did everything to protect the interests of the club and make a profit. He has also used lies to deceive the public, which is allowed in business.
"But if you were in Luka's shoes, you would probably do the same as him.
"To have an offer from Real Madrid is a once-in-a-career opportunity. I'd do anything to get to Santiago Bernabeu.
"Playing for Real Madrid is the greatest privilege in any footballer's career, even if I prefer Barcelona. That's why I understand Luka."
Kranjcar was sold to Ukrainian outfit Dynamo Kiev prior to the European Championship, ending his three-year spell at White Hart Lane.
The 27-year-old admitted it was difficult to leave Spurs due to the demands of the chairman and has pointed to the sale of Dimitar Berbatov to Manchester United in 2008 as an example.
"I know from my own experience how difficult these people are and how hard it is to break out of a contract with them," he added.
"Remember Berbatov? And it was the same with me. They held me back for two years, until my new club paid what they were asking and not a pound less.
"That is their speciality. They set unreasonably high transfer demands, but the absurd thing is they always get what they ask for.
"Dynamo Kiev is big on tradition and the fans, and though lots of people will say it's not like Tottenham, if you look at history, Dynamo Kiev is a bigger club than Spurs."

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Marotta: Van Persie too expensive for Juve

Juventus appear to have cooled their interest in Robin van Persie due to the financial demands of Arsenal.
Van Persie is widely expected to leave Emirates Stadium this summer after refusing to extend his current contract, which expires in 12 months' time.
Manchester City and Manchester United are also keen on recruiting the goal-getter, along with the Serie A champions.
However, Juventus director Giuseppe Moratta believes no deal will take place as he does not see any great value in the move.
"A top player is not only judged by how much he costs," Moratta told Sky Sport Italia.
"It can also mean a player who costs less but on the pitch shows an absolute value.
"Van Persie is a great player, but Arsenal do not intend to lose him. And you cannot indulge in a player if the owners don't want [to sell].
"Talk of our real interest in him seems excessive to me."
Moratta confirmed that Paul Pogba, who has joined the club from Manchester United, will have his medical on Friday evening ahead of his proposed transfer.
"Pogba? He arrives tonight and he will quickly take his medical, then we will sort out the details of his contract," he added.

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Ferguson confident Kagawa will be a hit

Japan midfielder Shinji Kagawa can make a big impact at Manchester United after scoring his first goal for the club in a pre-season game in China, manager Sir Alex Ferguson said.

Ferguson told the club's official website that Kagawa had the ability to shine after signing the 23-year-old from Germany's Borussia Dortmund.

"There was a lot of interest in him... because he started so well at Dortmund," the United manager said after the Japanese player's goal sank China's Shanghai Shenhua in midweek.

Shanghai lined up without former Chelsea strikers Nicolas Anelka and Didier Drogba and Kagawa stole the show, scoring the game's only goal in the 68th minute.

"But I never think you can tell after one season," added Ferguson. "I wanted to see how he'd do in his second campaign - it's more of a test because your opponents know more about you.

"He passed with flying colours. He was even better, in fact. So that was a straightforward decision for us."

Kagawa told Japanese media: "Technically I have the confidence to fit in. I have to stay confidence and keeping on working hard. From here on is when it counts."

Ferguson is hoping Kagawa's speed and industry will add an extra dimension to his side after they were pipped to the title by crosstown rivals Manchester City last season.

"Shinji's intelligent, fast, has quick feet and works very hard," said the 70-year-old Scot, not one to heap lavish praise on his players.

"At 23 he's a good age and already has a couple of years' experience at a big club in Borussia Dortmund. It's obvious he's a very good player. We have high hopes for him."

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Japan media hails 'Glasgow Miracle'

Japan's media hailed the shock 1-0 win over Spain in their opening game of the men's London Olympics' football tournament as a miracle on Friday.

Hyperbole abounded after Thursday's upset, reminding people that Japan's men can play a bit too after the country's women sensationally won last year's World Cup.

Japan's Nikkan Sports daily described the win as the "Miracle of Glasgow" after Yuki Otsu's first-half goal proved the difference in the Group D game.

Despite being an under-23 competition, Spain, world and European champions at senior level, are regarded as potential gold medallists at the London Olympics.

Japan's job was helped by the sending off of midfielder Inigo Martinez just before half-time.

"I was sobbing at the end of the game," match-winner Otsu told Japanese media after his close-range goal helped Japan beat Spain for the first time at any level.

"We are here to win the gold medal," added the German-based midfielder, who was tweeting "Please! Please!" from the bench in the second half after being withdrawn with a bruised ankle.

"Japan shock the world!" screamed the Sankei Sports, while the Mainichi Daily's headline ran "Otsu sinks unbeatable Armada" and the win was a hot topic on Friday's television talk shows.

The government also praised the result, Chief Cabinet Secretary Osamu Fujimura called it a "truly a great start to beat mighty Spain."

Japan's men last won an Olympic medal at the 1968 Mexico Olympics when they took bronze but have not advanced beyond the group stages since the 2000 Sydney Games.

A Japan team full of fresh-faced players such as Hidetoshi Nakata and Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi famously stunned Brazil 1-0 at the 1996 Atlanta Games, dubbed the "Miracle of Miami."

The Japanese players, however, insisted after beating Spain that there was nothing miraculous about the win.

"It's not a miracle," said Otsu. "It's the result of hard work and preparation."

After Japan's world champion women won their opening game, the pressure had been on the men, who caused a stir by flying to London in business class while the women sat in premium economy.

Japan's world champion women came to symbolise the determination of a nation united in recovering from last year's deadly tsunami and resulting nuclear crisis.

"It's a good job we won," said Japan captain Maya Yoshida. "If we had lost after they won, you know what people would have been saying about us."

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Kompany keen on tasting more City success

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany, fresh from signing a new six-year deal with the club, believes the Premier League champions can win again and start a new era of dominance.

"We have laid the foundations and now we want to win more. If we do that then we can be one of the most successful clubs for a long time to come and that is the aim," said Kompany after agreeing to the longest deal in the club's recent history.

The Belgian international defender was crucial to City's title run last year which culminated in their first top flight championship in 44 years.

"This Man City project was probably one of the most difficult projects in Europe to be part of and so far we have all done a good job even though a lot of people said it wasn't going to happen so quickly," he said.

"I like the kind of characters that we have in our team; I like the challenges we have ahead of us. Now is the time to build the culture of winning. We are in the right time; we are in the right moment," he said.

Kompany, who has won admirers for his calm and authoritative leadership as well as his intelligent defending said it never crossed his mind to consider a move.

"For me if you are good somewhere then there is no reason to look elsewhere," the 26-year-old said.

"Man City as a project is not just a project of the owners or the people employed by the club; it is also my project.

"I have been here since the beginning and I have seen everything at the club change inside and out. I have the feeling that I have contributed to it too. It is good to know that I can be at City for another six years. It is a compliment that the club feels so highly of me," he said.

The former Anderlecht and Hamburg defender, who has made 47 appearances for Belgium, said he particularly enjoyed the role of captain at City.

"I thrive on responsibility the more I get the more I perform; I am at the right club because I have built something here already.

"I have never denied that this can sometimes be the hardest team in the league of which to be captain; but like I said I am all about responsibility and challenge."

While excited to get started against next season, Kompany said he had savoured the close-season with fans on his travels, including the current tour of China, reminding him of the impact of the dramatic final day title triumph.

"That last game against QPR will be a very special part of City's history for the next 50 or 100 years but now is the time to look forward.

"I have travelled a lot this summer all over the world and our story has been a big story everywhere.

"It made a huge impact, including here in China and Asia in general. I met a lot of people in a lot of different countries and they have all got their reminders of the moment we won and how they experienced it in some way," he said.

"I can't wait to get started again. I am really excited about the season ahead." 

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Japan kick off with shock win over Spain

Japan produced the first upset of the Olympic Games when they beat potential gold medallists Spain 1-0 while favourites Brazil survived a scare before beating Egypt 3-2 on the opening day of the men's football competition on Thursday.

Hosts Britain, making their first appearance at the Games for 52 years, were denied a win in front of a 72,000 crowd at Old Trafford when Senegal scored a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw.

Uruguay, back in the Games after an 84-year absence, came from behind to beat a lively United Arab Emirates side 2-1 in the earlier game at Old Trafford.

On a day when all 16 teams were in action, there was also a win for Belarus, playing in their first major international tournament, beating New Zealand 1-0 at Coventry.

The real upset though was at Hampden Park where Japan stunned Spain, looking to become the first country to hold the World Cup, European crown and Olympic title at the same time.

The Spaniards finished the Group D match with 10 men after midfielder Inigo Martinez was sent off just before half-time having found no answer to Yuki Otsu's 34th minute goal.

Asked if this was Japan's best ever win coach Takashi Sekizuka said: "We looked forward to the match very much and showing how much we have to offer was the main point.

"Now we have to prepare for winning the games against Morocco and Honduras but I am very pleased with the result today."

Despite Spain's hopes of winning the title, Brazil are favourites to take their first Olympic football gold.

They began with an ultimately nervy 3-2 win over Egypt in Cardiff after goals from Rafael, Leandro Damiao and Neymar had put them 3-0 ahead after only 30 minutes.

Egypt rallied in the second half with goals by Mohamed Aboutrika and Mohamed Salah with 14 minutes to play.

Neymar, who scored from a header, told reporters: "We need to improve, but it is always better to improve for the next match after a win."

Britain, playing in the finals for the first time since Rome 1960 were held to a 1-1 draw by debutants Senegal at Old Trafford after leading for more than an hour.

Craig Bellamy put them ahead in the 20th minute but Moussa Konate equalised for Senegal eight minutes from time.

Uruguay, back at the Games for the first time since winning the second of their two golds in 1928, preserved their record of never losing in the Olympics, coming from behind to beat the United Arab Emirates 2-1 in the opening match at Old Trafford.

ALWAYS BOOED

Substitute Nicolas Lodeiro scored Uruguay's winner while captain Luis Suarez was booed every time he touched the ball by a Manchester crowd unforgiving of the Liverpool player's racial spat with United's Patrice Evra last season that earned him a lengthy ban.

Suarez said: "This is just one more match. I'm used to playing in stadiums where I'm booed. It doesn't worry me in the least. They boo me at almost every stadium in England, it's normal. I'd rather highlight the support from the Uruguayan fans."

In Thursday's other matches, Morocco and Honduras drew 2-2 at Hampden while Mexico and South Korea finished 0-0 at St James' Park, the venue for Switzerland's 1-1 draw with Gabon.

The Swiss finished with 10 men after defender Oliver Buff was red carded for diving having earlier been booked.

Morocco also finished with 10 men after defender Zakarya Bergdich was sent off 19 minutes from time against Honduras.

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Late Senegal leveller denies Britain victory

Hosts Britain were denied victory on their return to the Olympic Games after a 52-year absence when they were held to a 1-1 draw by debutants Senegal in their opening Group A match at Old Trafford on Thursday.

Britain looked to be heading for victory after Welsh veteran Craig Bellamy, at 33 one of their over-age players, lashed home after 20 minutes.

But Senegal, who rallied strongly after the break, equalised in the 82nd minute when Moussa Konate timed his run perfectly to stay onside and clip the ball past goalkeeper Jack Butland.

Britain almost stole all three points in the 88th minute when Aaron Ramsey set up substitute Marvin Sordell but he shot against the bar.

The men's football competition is contested by under-23 teams who are allowed to field three players over that age, but Britain has been absent since the Rome Games of 1960 because of political differences involving Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland regarding their own independence within FIFA.

But all that was forgotten as a near capacity crowd of 72,476 enjoyed a memorable night which began with Uruguay beating the United Arab Emirates 2-1 in the group opener.

They were also close to witnessing a British win, but were denied the chance despite an excellent performance from Britain's other Welsh veteran, skipper Ryan Giggs.

OLDEST PLAYER

At 38 years and eight months old, and playing on his home Manchester United ground, Giggs became the oldest outfield football player ever to appear in the Olympic finals.

Giggs also had a hand in Bellamy's goal as the Senegal defence failed to clear his free-kick. The ball fell to Bellamy who scored with a fierce volley into the ground that flew up past goalkeeper Ousmane Mane.

Britain, playing only their second match together since the Olympics squad was announced, seemed far more settled from the start than they were at any time during last week's warm-up against Brazil in Middlesbrough which they lost 2-0.

However, they lacked bite in the second half and that was always inviting danger against Senegal, who qualified for their first Olympics after beating Oman 2-0 in a playoff at Coventry in April and had certainly not come to make up the numbers.

Senegal's tall, physically strong and hard-running side - typified by captain Mohamed Diame who has just moved from Wigan Athletic to West Ham United in the Premier League - deserved a point from a well-contested game.

But they also wasted a golden chance to equalise soon after Bellamy's goal when Sadio Mane dinked the ball wide after Butland made a rare mistake and hit a weak clearance straight to him.

Britain next face the United Arab Emirates while Uruguay play Senegal in another double-header at Wembley on Sunday.

Lexo më shumë