Asian Games opens with spectacular show at Incheon

 

Pop sensation Psy was the star attraction as a dazzling opening ceremony, showcasing the glorious past and modern-day South Korea launched the 17th Asian Games here on Friday.
The Games were declared open by South Korean President Park Geun-Hye with the words "I declare open the 17th Asian Games," before actor Lee Young-ae lit up the flame resembling a fountain of cascading water.
As Lee lighted the cauldron, dazzling fireworks lit up the sky.
The competing teams marched into the stadium in the final act of the evening. The Indian athletes trooped in after Iran with hockey skipper Sardar Singh leading out the smartly-dressed contingent.
While the male members wore black blazers, the women athletes were dressed in blue sarees. The smiling athletes walked in waving the tri-colour. India have sent nearly 700-strong contingent for the event that will take part in 28 disciplines.
The overriding theme of the opening was the unity of Asia and consequently the cultural show
comprised four parts. As is the custom the ceremony was divided into the informal and formal parts.

The event began with a welcoming performance, lasting close to 80 minutes, to greet the spectators at the 60,000-capacity stadium that was filled to the brim.
The session was divided into three parts, "Incheon, the magnet of dreams," "Incheon, where all of us become friends," and "Tomorrow, dreamed by all of us."

A display of Korea's traditional drums and cymbal-type instruments before emcees Kim Sung-ju and Youn Soo-young came on stage.
Then, a cheering team formed by young children performed to a remix of songs from past sports events held in Korea, including the theme song of the 1988 Seoul Olympics, and the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
The second part of the opening ceremony consisted of two themed songs "New Asia, a Song of Hope" and "Incheon".
Then "Incheon, a place for one Asia" expressed the Games hosting city as a bridge to unite Asia as one family and open the future of the continent.
Two figures related to Incheon appeared on stage- Biryu, a legendary founding father of an ancient kingdom whose territory covered the Incheon area, and Sim Cheong, a girl in an ancient novel, who dived into the sea as a sacrifice for fishermen who promised to give her blind father a huge amount of rice instead.
On the final stage of "Incheon, a place for one Asia," a ship returned to Incheon with Korean opera singer, Ahn Sook-sun, singing "One Asia."
The ship carried the hoop girl, actor Kim Soo-hyun and people from 45 nations. They were welcomed by actor Jang Dong-gun and people of Incheon. Executive director Im Kwon-taek and artistic director Jang Jin orchestrated all performances.
Executive director Im Kwon-taek and artistic director Jang Jin orchestrated all the performances.
After the Games were formally declared open the OCA flag was brought in by eight top former Korean sports heroes and ceremoniously raised.
The host country's national anthem was sung to signal the commencement of the formal part of the programme.
The teams had been restricted to 130 members for the march past.

  As was expected the host country's contingent, aiming to finish at least second overall in the medals tally behind juggernaut China, was given the loudest cheer of the entire evening.
In his welcome speech Kim Young-soo, the president of the Incheon Asian Games Organising Committee, described Incheon as not only his birthplace, but also as "a dynamic city of communication and interaction; the venue for convergence and exchange, home to various ethnicities, cultures, the latest scientific technologies and traditions."
He also said that the current Asian Games will be "a grand festival for peace and harmony, to discard all discrimination, prejudice, suppression and conflicts; and to ensure an Asia of mutual understanding and prosperity."
"The 17th Asian Games has been prepared not as a festival for just few nations, but as a magnificent festival for all Asians to celebrate as one," he added.
The Games torch, in a departure from tradition lit on August 9 at New Delhi's Dhyan Chand National Stadium which was the venue of the inaugural Asian Games in 1951, was then ceremoniously brought into the stadium by a relay squad of runners before the cauldron was lit in spectacular fashion by Korean actor Lee Young-ae to thunderous roars from the crowd.
Traditionally, the flame of Asian Games had always been lit in the Games hosting nation. But to infuse a sense of tradition and honour to the history of Asian Games, the flame for the 17th Games here was lit up in an overseas nation for the first time to lay the foundation for the flame of the Asian Games to be continuously lit up in the Dhyan Chand National Stadium from now on.
Through the relay from New Delhi, the hosting city for the first Asian Games and through China, the flame arrived at Incheon Port through sea route on August 12th.
It all ended in a riot of colour and foot-tapping Gangnam style music and dance with the assembled athletes in the centre of the field joining in.

Read more at: http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asian-games-opening-ceremony-incheon-2014-south-korea/1/383931.html

Read more at: http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asian-games-opening-ceremony-incheon-2014-south-korea/1/383931.html

Kieron Pollard named Mumbai Indians captain for Champions League Twenty20

The mighty Trinidad and Tobago all-rounder, Kieron Pollard, known for his explosive batting is the automatic choice to lead the Mumbai Indians in the forthcoming Champions League T20, starting September 13 in Raipur, in the absence of Rohit Sharma, who recently sustained a fractured middle finger during the second ODI against England at Cardiff.
Pollard has been with the Mumbai Indians from IPL Season 3, and has already established a sense of seniority and gained respect among his fellow players. Pollard’s success as the captain having led the Barbados Tridents to title triumph in the recently concluded Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has been very well-appreciated. A towering Trinidadian, Kieron Pollard is one of the hardest hitters of the cricket ball and has produced moments of brilliance for the Mumbai Indians. Pollard played a crucial role in Mumbai Indians’ triumph, during the 2013 IPL Season by smashing 29 sixes, which enabled Mumbai Indians to clinch their maiden IPL Title. Pollard's career in the Mumbai Indians team spans over nearly 96 matches, scoring more than 1,700 runs with over 100 sixes, with more than 63 wickets to his credit. He was also adjudged the Man of the Match in the 2013 IPL final because of his overall brilliant display.
Elated at being appointed as the Captain of the Mumbai Indians team, Kieron Pollard commented, "It is very unfortunate that Rohit will be unable to lead the team, and I take this opportunity to wish him a fast comeback. I truly understand that it is a huge honor and a privilege to captain the vibrant Mumbai Indians side, and thank the team management for bestowing their faith in me. I am aware of the great expectations ahead of us. However, I am confident that together, we will face the challenges, and work towards retaining the glory and the stature of the Mumbai Indians team."
Chief Mentor for Mumbai Indians, Anil Kumble commented, "We will definitely feel Rohit's absence in the team and wish him well. However, I strongly believe, that you can only be as good as the opportunities you get; and I am confident that Kieron with his varied experience and impressive track record, will rise to the occasion, and align the Mumbai Indians for a competitive performance".

Mirza and Soares win U.S. Open mixed doubles title

Sania Mirza of India and Brazilian Bruno Soares won the U.S. Open mixed doubles title on Friday, extended to a sixth championship point by American Abigail Spears and Santiago Gonzalez of Mexico.
Top-seeded Mirza and Soares won 6-1 2-6 11-9, sealing the match tiebreak when Spears sent a backhand volley long at a sun-drenched Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Mirza, who partnered compatriot Mahesh Bhupathi to mixed titles at the 2012 French and 2009 Australian Open, jumped for joy on the final point and was lifted in a hug by Soares, who claimed his second U.S. title after a 2012 win with Russian Ekaterina Makarova in 2012.
The winners, who shared $150,000, reached their first championship point at 9-4 but the runners-up won the next five points to extend the final.

Scrap IPL as players become slaves to it: Ian Botham

England legend Ian Botham has called for the scrapping of Indian Premier League (IPL), saying the T20 domestic event is “too powerful” for cricket’s “long-term good” and the game would be better off without the tournament.
“I’m worried about the IPL - in fact, I feel it shouldn’t be there at all as it is changing the priorities of world cricket. Players are slaves to it. Administrators bow to it,” Botham said while delivering the 2014 MCC Spirit of Cricket Cowdrey Lecture at Lord’s last night.


How on Earth did the IPL own the best players in the world for two months a year and not pay a penny to the boards that brought these players into the game?
“I know this has been modified to a degree, but it is still an imbalance. The IPL is too powerful for the long-term good of the game.”
The 58-year-old former England skipper also expressed his concerns about IPL’s impact on corruption in the game.
“Corruption is enough of a problem in itself, but the IPL compounds that problem given it provides the perfect opportunity for betting and therefore fixing,” he said.
“We have seen a few players exposed, but does throwing the odd second XI player into jail solve it? To kill the serpent, you must cut off its head. The ICC Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) must pursue the root of the problem and if necessary expose the big names,” Botham said.
Botham’s lecture came merely 24 hours after England slumped to yet another humiliating ODI loss as India took an invincible 3-0 lead in the five-match series with an emphatic nine-wicket win in the fourth ODI at Edgbaston.
Botham, who termed England’s performance in ODIs as a “joke”, did not make specific reference to any player but raised questions about central contracts that are awarded to English players now.
He feels the long and lucrative central contracts, which were not there during his playing days, have made cricketers complacent.
“Central contracts are brilliant, but it has now become so essential to the England player that the sharpness goes,” he said.
“A long contract is a cosy contract. To play international sport, above all else - above even freshness and rest - you must have desire. It is not enough to want success. You must need success. If you want it, that’s fine, but you must need it as a player. Hunger is still the most important attribute for any sportsman,” he said.

My records are out of reach: Bolt

Dreams seen in infancy remain for eternity. So, when Usain Bolt told a rapt audience that it was his dream as a child to play cricket for Jamaica, everyone nodded in agreement. For the 28-year-old sprint king, there was no dearth of inspiration, coming as he was from a place which had produced legends like pacemen Courtney Walsh and Michael Holding. But while his heart said cricket, his father willed otherwise.

"My father is a huge cricket fan, but when I got to higher secondary, I had two options - cricket or athletics... my dad said because of the system in Jamaica, it would be better to take up athletics. He said, 'You just have to run fast in athletics while it's tougher to get into the national (cricket) team'. (So) blame it on my dad," he said.

With the West Indies cricket team lording over the world at that time, and talented players falling from trees, it was hard to get a breakthrough even for the most dedicated youngsters. In the end, Bolt heeded his dad's advice and today the six-time Olympic gold-medallist can proclaim to the world that both the world records - 100m and 200m - are "pretty much out of reach". "As an athlete, I have seen records come and go. They have always been broken, but if you want to be as great as me, you have to work very hard. That's why my records will stand the time," he said.

Different format, different Team India

It wasn't surprising to see a drastically different India in the second ODI against England at Cardiff on Wednesday. A team coming from consecutive Test defeats - both inside three days - took to ODIs like fish to water. And before we forget, it's the ODI champions after all that we are talking about here.
The reinforcement for the ODI leg of England tour didn't take time to spring into action. Led by Suresh Raina's quickfire ton, India, No. 2 in ICC rankings, defeated both rain and England to romp home victors by 133 runs.

Ravindra Jadeja too hit his groove in the format he prefers - doing the job with the ball in a four-wicket spell that orchestrated England's collapse. From 54 for 0, the hosts slipped to 161 all out.

Rohit Sharma, who, like the rest of the Indian batsmen was found wanting in the Test series, came into his own at Cardiff with an innings of 52 - though he must be kicking dirt to not get a century like Raina.


MS Dhoni, who was one of the very few Indian batsmen to tackle England bowlers in Tests, was in his elements as well - hitting 52 and adding 144 runs in just 16.5 overs with Raina, who scored his century in just 74 balls before getting out the very next delivery.
What possibly clicked for India in Cardiff was the introduction of fresh legs and an uncomplicated approach. Raina, who joined the squad for ODIs, had no baggage of Test embarrassment on his back. Rather he had a point to prove after being overlooked for the Test squad.
Mohit Sharma, who too has arrived with Raina for the ODIs, also made his presence felt with a testing spell at the top. Though he couldn't get among the wickets, his six-over spell of 0/18 allowed Jadeja to tighten the noose around the English batsmen.
But it will be a touch early to label it as 'change of fortune' on the basis of just one match. India will have to do it more consistently, and the next week will tell us if they can.

World Cup 2014 : I told Mario Goetze 'show the world you are better than Messi': Germany coach Loew

Joachim Loew revealed he told Mario Goetze to "prove he's better than Lionel Messi" before Germany's "miracle boy" hit the extra-time goal to win Sunday's World Cup final.

Germany's forward Mario Goetze kisses the World Cup trophy as his team celebrate winning the 2014 World Cup final football match between Germany and Argentina 1-0 following extra-time in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. AFP photo

Goetze came off the substitutes bench to score a stunning 113th-minute goal as Germany beat Argentina 1-0 at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana Stadium.

"I told Mario Goetze, 'go out and show the world you are better than Messi'," said Loew.

"Goetze is the miracle boy, he is the wonder who can play in numerous positions, he is the decider who can come on and make a difference and that is what he did today." 

The German coach meanwhile basked in his team's historic win, the first by a European team in South America.

It came after four consecutive near-misses in major tournaments stretching back to 2006.

"We have been together for 55 days, we have started this project years ago and this is the culmination of a lot of hard work," Loew said.

"We have been able to improve our performances, we believed in it and worked a lot for it. This team really deserves it with the likes of Philipp Lahm, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Lukas Podolski and Per Mertesacker."

"We have had disappointment in the past having gone close despite playing good football. I think we put in the best performances over all the seven matches of all the teams here."

Loew said the tournament triumph was forged on team spirit.

"This team has developed an unbelievable team spirit and has developed a marvellous mental capacity," he said.

"And we are proud to become the first European country to win the title in south America. In Brazil, In Rio is this football-loving country and that makes us very proud." 

"This deep joy and happiness will last forever, the team gave all they had lead by the marvellous Bastian Schweinsteiger in midfield and Philipp Lahm, who ran a number of kilometres.

"I told the team before kick-off that they would have to give more than they had ever given before, because they wanted to achieve something we had never previously achieved."

Loew said one of the highlights of his career had been Germany's 7-1 semi-final hammering of hosts Brazil last Tuesday, but the reaction of the host country's football-crazy supporters had taken him by surprise.

"It is one of the highlights of my career that after we beat Brazil, although the disappointment was enormous, the Brazilians applauded us," said Loew.

"The drive took an hour to the airport, but we had Brazilians cheering us on the sidewalks.

"When we were about 10 minutes from our World Cup base in Bahia, we saw people welcoming us with flags and banners and that really got under our skin.

"I told the team we are going to a foreign country and we are representing 80 million Germans, but I wanted the local people to feel that the team were focused on their football, but enjoying themselves.

"The people supported us with joy and love and I want to say 'Thank You, Brazil'." Loew also praised his side for nullifying the threat of Argentina's superstar Lionel Messi, who was voted player of the tournament, but failed to breach the German defence.

Germany's forward Mario Goetze scores. AFP

"Both teams had their chances, but we had the better part of the game and possession," said Loew.

"In extra-time, we had the sufficient energy, we didn't want penalties and we wanted to decide the match before.

"Argentina had the mind to wait and then counter-attack, when they got the ball, players like Messi were fed possession up front.

"We had players who went straight to Messi as soon as he got the ball and it meant he was never able to get running, we did that a couple of times and it worked well."

SOURCE:http://www.hindustantimes.com/

LeBron picks Cavs: King James returns to Cleveland

The best player in the NBA doesn’t become a free agent very often, and that is what LeBron James has been dealing with the past few days, however after careful consideration, he has decided to return to the Cleveland Cavaliers. The news broke on Friday morning in an exclusive by Sports Illustrated.


When James opted out of his contract with the Heat, it seemed like a foregone conclusion, he and the rest of the big three would return to the Heat. Most believed they were simply looking for more security and were hoping that Heat president Pat Riley could add to an aging roster that obviously needed some tweaks.In the case of LeBron James, he has now been an unrestricted free agent twice in his career. Back in 2010, James famously left the Cleveland Cavaliers to sign with the Miami Heat in a nationally televised show called The Decision. Since then James has enjoyed great success, leading the Heat two four Eastern Conference Championships, four appearances in the NBA Finals and two NBA Titles. James has been named MVP of the league twice with the Heat and was named MVP of the Finals in both of the Heat’s victories. All in all, James seems to have made the right decision. However, with the Heat falling to the San Antonio Spurs in what was a relatively easy victory for the Spurs, winning in five games, James has taken the offseason to think about his future.

As the days went on and James remained silent, more and more reports began to surface that James was legitimately interested in a return to Cleveland. One reporter even labeled it a “90% chance” James was returning to Cleveland. On Wednesday, the Cavaliers completed a three team deal that sent swingman Sergey Karasev and point guard Jarrett Jack to the Brooklyn Nets and big man Tyler Zeller and a future first-round draft pick to the Boston Celtics. That deal gave the Cavaliers the cap space required to sign James to a max contract.

Since losing James in 2010, the Cavaliers have added three number one overall picks (They selected point guard Kyrie Irving, who recently agreed to a max extension with the Cavaliers in 2011, forward Anthony Bennett in 2013 and used the top-overall selection on swingman Andrew Wiggins just last month), two fourth-overall picks (They took big man Tristan Thompson in 2011 and guard Dion Waiters in 2012) and still have a favorite of James, big man Anderson Varejão.

The Cavaliers are also reportedly in the mix to acquire Minnesota Timberwolves’ power forward Kevin Love.

James averaged 27.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.6 steals per game while shooting 56.7% from the field, 37.9% from three and 75.0% from the charity stripe last season. In his storied career, James has averaged 27.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 49.7% from the field, 34.1% from beyond the arc and 74.7% from the free throw line.

Source:http://fansided.com/

Alexis Sanchez agrees to join Arsenal, leave Barcelona

Alexis Sanchez has agreed to join Arsenal from Barcelona on a long-term contract for an undisclosed fee.

The 25-year-old Chile international completed his medical in London on Thursday, and will join up with his new teammates at the end of July after spending some time on holiday following the World Cup.

Sanchez, who won the 2013 Primera Division title and 2012 Copa del Rey with Barca, is likely to make his first appearance for his new club at the Emirates Cup over the weekend of August 2-3.

The Gunners are also expected to bring in France defender Mathieu Debuchy from Newcastle, as manager Arsene Wenger looks to build on last season's FA Cup final success.

Bringing in Sanchez, who also had interest from Liverpool and Juventus, will present something of a personal coup for Wenger, who is understood to have spoken to the player face to face while working for French television at the World Cup in Brazil, convincing him Arsenal was the right place to further his career.

"As many people have seen during the World Cup this summer, Alexis is a fantastic footballer and we are delighted that he is joining us at Arsenal Football Club," Wenger told the team website. "Alexis will add power, creativity and much quality to our squad and we are all looking forward to him joining up with us in a few weeks.

"He has consistently produced top-quality performances at the highest level for a number of seasons now and we are all excited to see him integrate into the Arsenal squad. I'm sure all Arsenal supporters will join me in welcoming Alexis to our club."

Sanchez scored 39 goals over three seasons with Barca, having joined the Catalan side from Udinese. He has netted 24 goals in 71 appearances for Chile and helped his country reach the last 16 of this summer's World Cup, where they were knocked out on penalties by hosts Brazil.

"I'm so happy to be joining Arsenal - a club which has a great manager, a fantastic squad of players, huge support around the world and a great stadium in London," the player said.

"I'm looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and to be playing for Arsenal in the Premier League and Champions League. I will give my best to Arsenal and want to make all the supporters happy."


The Gunners continue to work on bringing in other reinforcements to mount a long-overdue sustained assault on the Barclays Premier League title, having been clear at the top in January only to fade away and finish fourth.

While Debuchy will represent a Premier League-ready replacement for Bacary Sagna, who left on a free transfer to Manchester City, Wenger also has his mind on further additions.

QPR forward Loic Remy, rated at around £8 million, is a potential target, having spent last season on loan at Newcastle, along with Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Lars Bender.

Reports have also linked Arsenal with Real Madrid's Germany midfielder Sami Khedira, although any possible move could well hinge on the personal terms.

Arsenal also need a goalkeeper, with number two Lukasz Fabianski having joined Swansea. Midfielder Mikel Arteta has no intention of leaving the Gunners, according to his agent, with reports linking the Spaniard with Fiorentina.

Wenger will return to Arsenal after the World Cup final, ahead of a trip to New York at the end of the month. After the Emirates Cup, Arsenal take on Premier League champions Manchester City at Wembley in the Community Shield.

SOURCE:http://msn.foxsports.com/

Liverpool confirm Luis Suárez’s £75m move to Barcelona pending medical

Liverpool have confirmed that they have agreed to sell Luis Suárez to Barcelona.

The Uruguay forward will travel to Barcelona to complete a medical after the two clubs agreed a fee of around £75m. Suárez has signed a five-year contract. Barcelona will unveil officially the striker on Wednesday.

A Liverpool statement said: “Liverpool FC confirms that Luis Suárez will be leaving the club after a transfer agreement was reached with FC Barcelona. The player now has permission to complete the usual formalities, which will then conclude the transfer.

“We would like to thank Luis for his contribution and the role he played in helping bring Champions League football back to Anfield. Everyone at Liverpool Football Club wishes Luis and his family well for the future.”

Suárez told Liverpoolfc.com: “It is with a heavy heart that I leave Liverpool for a new life and new challenges in Spain. Both me and my family have fallen in love with this club and with the city. But most of all I have fallen in love with the incredible fans. You have always supported me and we, as a family, will never forget it, we will always be Liverpool supporters.

“I hope you can all understand why I have made this decision. This club did all they could to get me to stay, but playing and living in Spain, where my wife’s family live, is a lifelong dream and ambition. I believe now the timing is right.

“I wish Brendan Rodgers and the team well for the future. The club is in great hands and I’m sure will be successful again next season. I am very proud I have played my part in helping to return Liverpool to the elite of the Premier League and in particular back into the Champions League.

“Thank you again for some great moments and memories. You’ll Never Walk Alone.”

A statement from Barcelona said: “FC Barcelona and Liverpool FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of Luis Suárez. The Uruguayan will be travelling to Barcelona next week for a medical, to sign his five-year contract and to be officially presented to the media and fans as an FC Barcelona player.” Suárez will wear the No9 shirt at the Camp Nou.Liverpool’s attempts to persuade the Barcelona forward Alexis Sánchez to move to Anfield held up Suárez’s transfer to the Camp Nou. Sánchez eventually chose to join Arsenal on Thursday, paving the way for Suárez to sign for Barcelona in a straight cash deal.

Rodgers said it was with a heavy heart that his side was losing a player of Suárez’s quality. “Luis is a very special talent and I thank him for the role he has played in the team in the past two years, during my time at Liverpool,” he told the club’s website. “I think he would be the first to accept he has improved as a player over that period, along with the team, and has benefited from being here as we have benefited from him.

“The club have done all they can over a sustained period of time to try to keep Luis at Liverpool. It is with great reluctance and following lengthy discussions we have eventually agreed to his wishes to move to Spain for new experiences and challenges. We wish him and his young family well; we will always consider them to be friends.”

He added: “We are focused on the future, as we strive to continue with the progress we have made and build on last season’s excellent Barclays Premier League campaign.

“I am confident we will improve the team further and will be stronger for this coming season, when we will be competing on all fronts; domestically and in the greatest club competition in the world, the Champions League.

“If there is one thing the history of this great club teaches us, it is that Liverpool FC is bigger than any individual.

“I hope our supporters continue to dream and believe that we are moving forward and with continued improvement and progression, together we will bring the success we all crave and deserve.”

SOURCE:http://www.theguardian.com/

Amul to sponsor India for CWG, Asian Games

India's dairy major Amul will be sponsoring the Indian contingent for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow starting July 23 and the Asian Games in Incheon Sep 19-Oct 4.

Amul and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the sponsorship deal.

IOA treasurer Anil Khanna said the deal is worth around Rs.1 crore and would be distributed among the athletes. Talks are also going on with Amul for cash awards for medal winners.

IOA secretary general Rajeev Mehta, who signed the MoU with Amul's managing director R.S.Sodhi, said that Commonwealth Games ticket worth Rs.3 lakh would be given to the sponsors.

"This support to the Indian sports will go a long way and further strengthen the bond between Amul and IOA and leave a longer lasting impact on the sports lovers and sportspersons," said Mehta.

Sodhi said that Amul was committed to strengthening the support to sports in various forms and encourage young generations from all corners of the country to take up sports.

"I take great pleasure and pride in announcing our sponsorship of the Indian contingent to the XX Commonwealth Games and the XVII Asian Games," he said.

SOURCE:http://www.business-standard.com/

Alfredo Di Stefano has died - Real Madrid legend passes away after suffering heart attack, aged 88

The world of football is in mourning after the death of legendary +Real Madrid C.F.  forward Alfredo Di Stefano at the age of 88. 

The former Argentina, Spain and Colombia star suffered a heart attack near the club’s Bernabeu stadium on Saturday afternoon and passed away on Monday.  

Real Madrid’s honorary president was attended to by emergency medical services after suffering a cardiac arrest that reportedly lasted 18 minutes and he had been kept in an induced coma in the coronary unit at the General Universitario Gregorio Maranon Hospital in the Spanish capital. 

1. Di Stefano suffered cardiac arrest on Saturday
2. Former forward represented Spain, Colombia and Argentina
3. Born in Buenos Aires, he was Real Madrid’s second highest           scorer.
4. Member of Real Madrid side that won five consecutive                 European Cups between 1956 and 1960.
5. Scored opening goal in iconic European Cup final of 1960             when Real beat Eintract Frankfurt 7-3 at Hampden Park.

SOURCE:http://www.dailymail.co.uk/

Manchester United reveal new kit for 2014-15 Premier League season

Hoping to purge the woeful disappointments of last season, Manchester United revealed their home Nike kit for the 2014-15 season on Monday.

For the first time American car company Chevrolet's name will appear emblazoned on the famous shirt, in a seven-year deal worth £53 million a season.

Louis van Gaal's club have unsurprisingly retained their traditional red shirt, white collar and cuffs with a red-and-black trim. The kit is completed by white shorts and black socks with a red band.

And new signings Ander Herrera and Luke Shaw – as well as thousands of fans – will be itching to wear the new kit.

The shirt welcomes the return of the white collar, which for the first time is a ribbed crew-neck design, and the bottom of the collar has a subtle chevron finish to replicate the pattern used on the chest of United shirts as far back as the early 20th Century, and again in recent times.

The button hidden in the collar is unique to the shirt – it's red with a black trim and engraved with the club name.

Inside the back of the neck is a small label with the message: "Youth, Courage, Greatness." The words represent the club’s values.

On the back of the shirt below the neck is a black devil from the club crest, and across the back is a series of chevrons in engineered mesh to emphasise the importance of the shape to United.

The new home kit will be available to pre-order from July 7, and to purchase in stores and from Nike.com from July 16.

Djokovic Beats Federer To Claim His Wimbledon Title

London: Novak Djokovic admitted he feared he'd never win another Grand Slam, but with a second Wimbledon title wrapped up, the new world number one is now planning on catching Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

The 27-year-old Serb beat Federer, as well as his own doubts and demons, 6-7 (7/9), 6-4, 7-6 (7/4), 5-7, 6-4 in a rollercoaster Wimbledon final Sunday to add to his 2011 All England Club title and take his majors tally to seven.

But he is still lagging behind the Swiss and Spaniard in the overall Grand Slam chase -- Federer had 17 while Nadal's record ninth French Open last month moved him to 14.

Next up for the sport's supermen is the US Open in August and September where Djokovic was champion in 2011 but was runner-up on four occasions in 2007, 2010, 2012 and 2013.

"This is the most special Grand Slam final I've played. At the time of my career for this Grand Slam trophy to arrive is crucial, especially after losing several Grand Slam finals in a row," he said.It is that sort of maddening inconsistency that had become a curse with Djokovic having lost all three of his most recent Grand Slam finals and five of the last six.

"I started doubting of course -- I needed this win a lot.

"I'm going to try to use it in the best possible way and for my confidence to grow for the rest of my season and the rest of my career."

The belief that Sunday's epic win, which had almost slipped away from him when he squandered a 5-2 lead in the fourth set and then a match point, could also be a springboard for more majors was shared by coach Boris Becker.

The three-time Wimbledon champion was brought on board in December last year in an attempt to help push Djokovic over the finish line at the majors.

It didn't work at the Australian Open, where he lost in the quarter-finals or at the French Open where his hopes of completing a career Grand Slam were thwarted, again, in the final by Nadal.

But the partnership paid dividends at Wimbledon even if Djokovic spent almost five hours more on court than Federer in getting to the final.

"We're looking pretty good now -- he's back to number one, Wimbledon champion, obviously he's going to take a couple of weeks off now but the next big one is the US Open," said Becker.

There was little evidence of what made Becker famous in his 1980s pomp on show in the final with Federer the keener of the two to serve-and-volley in deference to the influence of his coach, Stefan Edberg, a rival and contemporary of Becker.

Federer served-and-volleyed 36 times but Djokovic said he was prepared for the Swiss star's game plan as he chased what would have been a record eighth title at Wimbledon and which would have made the 32-year-old the oldest champion of the modern era.

"Those were particular changes in his game that I noticed before coming to this match. I paid attention to it and I was ready for it," said Djokovic.

"That's why he has been winning so many Grand Slams, because he feels confident to play these shots at the important time."

Djokovic insisted that Sunday's win even topped his record-breaking 2012 Australian Open final win against Rafael Nadal.

"Sincerely, this has been the best quality Grand Slam final that I have ever been part of," said Djokovic, whose Australian Open final win two years ago lasted almost six hours.

"But this is definitely the best match. It's the most special Grand Slam final I've played.

"I didn't allow my emotions to fade away, as was probably the case in the Roland Garros final. I am just very glad to win a Grand Slam final after losing the last three out of four.

"But I managed to not just win against my opponent but win against myself as well and find that inner strength that got me the trophy today."

Djokovic will now take a break to be his fiancee Jelena Ristic, who is pregnant with the couple's first child.

"There are few important things coming up. Getting married. Of course in a few months becoming a dad," he added.

"I think I can close the chapter of my tennis career just for little bit now. I think I deserve that for few weeks to rest, to enjoy, be with my fiancée, my wife to be, and my family."

SOURCE:http://www.firstpost.com/

Lewis Hamilton wins British Grand Prix after Nico Rosberg drops out

• Lewis Hamilton wins home GP for first time since 2008

• Valtteri Bottas finishes second; Daniel Ricciardo third

Lewis Hamilton won his second British Grand Prix on Sunday and with his team-mate Nico Rosberg failing to finish he closed the gap at the top of the drivers’ championship from 29 points to only four.

The only disappointment for the 120,000 crowd was that the promised showdown between the two Mercedes drivers never took place. Hamilton surged into the lead when Rosberg dropped out of the race with gearbox problems on the 29th lap. Hamilton, though, had been the faster of the two men after starting in sixth position. He had closed the gap on Rosberg to just 2.8sec when the German came in for a pit stop after 19 laps. That excellent stop was just 2.7sec but when Hamilton pitted just before the halfway mark there was a problem with his right rear wheel and it took 4.1sec.

Once again, though, Hamilton started to hunt his man down and the race was heading for a thrilling finale when Rosberg’s car came to a halt. After that Hamilton could afford to make yet another conservative stop before coming home to win by 30 seconds ahead of Valtteri Bottas. It was Hamilton’s fifth win of the season and his first here since his miraculous victory in the wet in 2008. It was also his 27th career win, putting him level with Sir Jackie Stewart.

At the start, Kimi Raikkonen’s awful season continued when he crashed after one lap. He ran wide, hit a bump when he rejoined the track and then flew into the barriers. He hobbled out of the car with a painful right ankle. Felipe Massa reacted quickly to prevent his Williams ploughing into Raikkonen’s spinning Ferrari.

Rosberg had got away well from pole but beside him Sebastian Vettel appeared to be in reverse as Jenson Button streaked past him into second place. Then Hamilton, who had gone past Nico Hülkenberg at the start, managed to squeeze past Vettel after being nudged almost off the track by the Red Bull.

The race was red-flagged and it took an hour to get going again. The wait, though, was worthwhile. Apart from Hamilton there was a thrilling drive from the Williams driver Bottas, who made a sequence of overtakes around the outside to promote himself from 14th on the grid.

There was also an entertaining battle between the multiple champions Vettel and Fernando Alonso, who was hit by a drive-through penalty after taking up the wrong grid position. That battle was won by Vettel, after a number of tetchy radio outbursts, but the best Red Bull on the day once again belonged to Daniel Ricciardo, who took the final podium position.

Button is still looking for that elusive first podium place in the British Grand Prix but he was fourth – only eight tenths of a second behind Ricciardo – and will be delighted with the outcome in an uncompetitive car. It was a magnificent race and after a disappointing summer for British sport a great result for the crowd.

Van Gaal's lands Krul blow on Costa Rica's dream run, Dutch to face Argentina in semis

Substitute goalkeeper Tim Krul saved two penalties in a dramatic shoot-out on Saturday as the Netherlands edged Costa Rica 4-3 to reach the World Cup semi-finals.

Goalkeeper Tim Krul of the Netherlands makes a save on a shot at goal by Costa Rica's Michael Umana (right) during a penalty shootout in their quarter-finals at the Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador. (Reuters Photo)

After a goalless 120 minutes, the towering Newcastle United custodian came on at the end of extra time and he saved from Bryan Ruiz and Michael Umana to win the quarter-final for the Dutch.

It was another masterstroke from Manchester United-bound coach Louis van Gaal, who despite his ingenuity was unable to engineer a breakthrough in normal and extra time.

'That is not normal,' says Krul who played for 10 minutes, achieved fame for lifetime

Costa Rica rarely threatened and appeared content to play for penalties, their strong suit after goalkeeper Keylor Navas kept out Greece in a shoot-out in the last 16.

But their bluff was called and after Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder and Dirk Kuyt all buried their kicks, the outstretched Krul denied Umana to seal the win.

The thrilling shoot-out came after a match in which goalkeeping also featured strongly when the Dutch hit the woodwork three times and were repeatedly denied by Navas.

Their first chance came when Kuyt squared it to Memphis Depay, who found Van Persie in the area but had his close-range shot well blocked by Navas.

The goalkeeper then spared Ruiz's blushes, after his captain gave the ball away on the halfway line, when he stopped smartly from Depay.

Robben's frank admission to diving dominated the build-up but Uzbek referee Ravshan Irmanov had no delay in awarding free-kicks when he went down twice in quick succession.

And Sneijder nearly buried the second when he curled it past the wall, only for his goal-bound shot to be denied by Navas's fabulous flying, one-handed save.
   
The Levante 'keeper was again on his toes when he came out quickly to dive on Robben's through-ball just ahead of the on-rushing Van Persie.

The Netherlands were starting to carve Costa Rica open but despite 63 percent of possession in the opening half, they went into the break goalless.

Costa Rica hadn't had a shot on target but they had a chance on the hour when Junior Diaz surged and found Campbell, who went sprawling but had his penalty claim denied.

Costa Rica withdrew Campbell for Marcos Urena, and they were forced into another change when midfielder Cristian Gamboa was stretchered off and replaced by Dave Myrie.

Krul saves the last penalty shot by Costa Rica to ensure a victory for Netherlands. (Reuters Photo)

Dutch coach Van Gaal threw on Jeremain Lens for Depay in a bid to avoid extra time, and Sneijder nearly broke the deadlock when he hammered a free-kick against the near post.

Navas again denied Van Persie from close range, and with two minutes remaining the sharpshooter appeared to have it won when Sneijder floated a ball over the defence.

But Van Persie, scorer of a magnificent diving header in the Dutch win against Spain, embarrassingly swung and missed with his favoured left foot with the goal at his mercy.

In injury time, the Dutch appeared cursed as Daley Blind's ball ran across the face, missing a forest of outstretched legs, and Van Persie's shot was deflected onto the bar.

Extra-time began for the sixth time this World Cup and Navas rescued Costa Rica again when he turned away Ron Vlaar's header before needing treatment after a clash with Kuyt.

After they changed ends for the final time, Robben painfully clashed heads with Johnny Acosta and substitute Klaas-Jan Huntelaar was booked for colliding with Navas.

With penalties looming, Urena threatened to snatch it for Costa Rica when he broke clear, but he was denied by goalkeeper Jan Cillessen.

And almost immediately at the other end, Sneijder hit the woodwork for the second time when he smashed a curling shot off the crossbar.

Van Gaal withdrew Cillessen for the 1.93m (six feet three inches) Krul exactly on 120 minutes for the penalties.

And his judgement looked impeccable when Krul saved Costa Rica's second kick, struck by Ruiz, and then palmed away Umana's low and one-handed before racing away in triumph.

SOURCE: http://www.hindustantimes.com/

Argentina Breaks in through Belgium into the Semis

Argentina are through into the World Cup semifinals after a 1-0 victory over Belgium in Brasil. Argentina broke the deadlock early on, and managed to withstand everything the ever-impotent Red Devils threw at them. The Albiceleste will play either the Netherlands or Costa Rica in the next round, while a disappointing Belgium are heading home.

It took less than eight minutes for Argentina to net the game's only goal, with Gonzalo Higuaín lashing an excellent volley inside Thibaut Courtois' far post. Though there was a hint of good fortune as the ball initially deflected into his path, the perfect finish was all skill.

Belgium struggled to react to going a goal behind, with Argentina successfully keeping the Red Devils quiet with intense pressure inside their own half. It took 26 minutes before Belgium finally forced a save from Sergio Romero, who parried Kevin De Bruyne's speculative effort to safety.

Argentina continued to look threatening on the counter-attack, with Lionel Messi and Ángel di María at the heart of all of their quick breaks. However, they lost the latter to a thigh injury just past the half-hour, just as Belgium began to look a little more dangerous in possession. The Red Devils produced their best chance of the half in the 42nd minute, though Kevin Mirallas headed Jan Vertonghen's cross just wide.

The second half kicked off with Argentina in the ascendency once more. Higuaín saw a low drive deflected narrowly wide by Daniel van Buyten, before a lethal cross from Ezequiel Lavezzi flashed dangerously across the face of Thibaut Courtois' goal. Fortunately for Belgium, no attackers were on hand to turn it in.

They had an even closer escape again minutes later, when a mazy dribble from the impressive Higuaín saw him face-to-face with the Belgian goalkeeper. However, Higuaín's finish didn't match the run, and his shot clipped the crossbar before going over. Belgium looked rattled, and struggled to get back into the game.

The Red Devils' coach Marc Wilmots responded by throwing on attackers Romelu Lukaku and Dries Mertens, and within a minute they'd created their first chance of the half. Once again it originated on a deep cross from Vertonghen, though Marouane Fellaini's powerful header cleared the bar.

Despite their late possession, Belgium failed to find an equalising goal, and would've conceded a late second if not for a great late save by Courtois on Messi. The Red Devils' final chance fell to Axel Witsel in stoppage time, though his effort from distance cleared the crossbar.

Yuvraj's Ton Failed To Save ROW XI Against Finch's Storm for MCC XI

Aaron Finch's 181*(183) blew away the efforts of Yuvraj Singh to save ROW XI aginst MCC today as they emerged victorious with 7 wickets remaining.

To celebrate 200 years of the famous Lord's Cricket Ground, some of cricket’s biggest names walked the hallowed turf once more as Sachin Tendulkar leads a Marylebone Cricket Club XI against Shane Warne and the Rest of the World.

All-time leading Test run-scorer Tendulkar  lead the (Marylebone Cricket Club XI)MCC XI and one of the greatest batting lineups to ever be assembled in Brian Lara, Rahul Dravid and Shivnarine Chanderpaul, with Brett Lee, Saeed Ajmal, Umar Gul and Daniel Vettori sharing the bowling duties.

For the Rest of the World(ROW XI), Shane Warne captained the man he lost his leading Test wicket-taker crown to, Muthiah Muralidaran, and some of the biggest hitters the game has seen in Kevin Pietersen, Adam Gilchrist and Shahid Afridi.

Here are some live actions that led to MCC's victory over ROW XI.

Electing to bat first, Rest of the World were powered to a solid start by Sehwag and Gilchrist. Gilchrist took some special liking to his ex-Australian teamate Shaun Tait as ROW brought up their fifty in the 6th over. But Brett Lee struck in the 7th over to castle Sehwag's defence and in the very next over, Saeed Ajmal foxed Gilchrist to put #teamshane under pressure.

Ajmal dismissed Tamim Iqbal in his second over to put further breaks in Rest of the World inning. The Pakistan spinner struck twice in his next over as he foxed Kevin Pietersen and then sent his compatriot Afridi packing. As 12 overs came to an end, Ajmal's bowling spell read 3-0-5-4.

Shane Warne-led ROW were in search of a big partnership following a cluster of wickets caused by Saeed Ajmal. Yuvraj Singh and Paul Collingwood provided one as they first stop the flow of wickets and while at it, kept chipping in with timely fours and sixes.

Yuvraj Singh top-scored with 132 after the Rest of the World had collapsed to 68 for five in the face of Pakistan off-spinner Saeed Ajmal's burst of four wickets for five runs in 15 balls.

By the end of the first innings, Rest of the World put up a good total of 293 at the loss of seven wickets. They played the entire 50 overs against MCC.

Post retirement, a delight for all the fans around the world as Sachin Tendulkar returned on the cricket field as an opener along with Aaron Finch. His strong defence and his trademark shots on the off side looked as if he had never gone away from the game.

Match resumed with Sachin Tendulkar at strike.

Aaron Finch and Sachin brought up the hundred for MCC. However, it was a heartbreak for the fans in the 16th over. Sachin was dismissed by Muralitharan for 44 runs.

With Brian Lara at 4 and Finch steady at the pitch, MCC were 126/1 in 20 overs.

The historic Lord's cricket ground was ready to celebrate its 200th anniversary. With who's who playing for Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC XI) and Rest of the World XI (ROW XI) the match was going to be a firecracker of a contest.

After 30 overs MCC were 174/3 with Collingwood picking up two wickets in two balls. First he removed Brian Lara for 23 caught behind by Gilchrist and in the very next delivery he clean bowled Rahul Dravid for a duck bringing Rest of the World back into the game

After the end of 35 overs MCC were conmfortably placed at 195/3 needing 99 runs in 15 overs . Aaron Finch not out on 112 runs and Shivnarine Chanderpaul  not out on 8 runs

After 40 overs MCC were 230/ 3 with Aaaron Finch on 139 not out, while Shivnarine Chanderpaul not out on 16

On the fifth ball of the 45th over Aaron Finch struck to huge SIX to Yuvraj Singh marking the victory of MCC XI over ROW XI with 25 balls left and 7 wickets still in hand.

Brazil Enters Semis But At A Great Cost!!

Brazil is into the World Cup semifinals.

But its brightest star is out.

Neymar fractured his vertebra Friday night during his team's World Cup quarterfinal win over Colombia and will miss the remainder of the football tournament, team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told reporters after the game.

The 22-year-old got kneed in the back during a second-half collision with a Colombian player. He rolled on the ground afterward, then cried in apparent pain while being taken off the field on a stretcher.

His loss is a huge blow for Brazil, which entered the World Cup with steep expectations given its traditional excellence in the sport -- its won more championships than any other country -- and the fact it is hosting the tourney for the first time since 1950."It's not serious in the sense that it doesn't need surgery, but he'll need to immobilize it to recover," said Lasmar, according to a story on the official website of FIFA, which runs the World Cup. "Unfortunately, he's not going to be able to play."

Many in Brazil still have a bitter taste from that World Cup decades ago, when the host lost in the finals to Uruguay.

It's not like the next game would have been easy regardless. In the semifinal Tuesday, Brazil will face Germany, which is undefeated in the tournament and handily toppled France earlier Friday. The final game will take place July 13.

Neymar is not the only one unavailable for the semifinal: Thiago Silva, the squad's captain, will also miss the game after getting his second yellow card on Friday -- which automatically rules him out of his next game.

Neymar has been the face of his team in his native Brazil and around the world. He has scored four goals, more than anyone else on his team and anyone in the tournament besides Colombia's James Rodriguez. (Argentina's Lionel Messi and Germany's Thomas Mueller also have four goals, like Neymar.)

A standout with the Brazilian club Santos, Neymar moved last summer to one of the world's richest, most successful clubs in FC Barcelona.

Messi, his teammate there, was among those who offered their regrets that Neymar is out of the World Cup and their best wishes for a speedy recovery.

The legendary Argentinian posted Friday night on his Facebook page: "Neymar, I hope you recover very soon, friend!"

SOURCE: https://cnn.com

Argentina may need more than Messi against strong Belgium

So far none of Argentina's opponents has been able to stop Lionel Messi.

Perhaps Belgium has what it takes. But even if doesn't, the Red Devils present a fresh challenge for Argentina at this World Cup.

For the first time in Brazil, Argentina faces an opponent with attacking potential that rivals its own.

"We will have to adapt, but what really interests me is to see how they will adapt to us," Belgium coach Marc Wilmots said.

Argentina has struggled on its road to the quarterfinals, relying on single moments of Messi magic to break stalemates against mostly defense-oriented teams.

On Saturday in Brasilia, it's up against a young, sparkling team that's considered a dark horse for the title. Even though it needed extra time to prevail against the United States, Belgium unleashed offensive qualities in that game that could present major problems for Argentina's at times shaky defense.

Belgium fired 38 shots, half of them from midfielders Kevin de Bruyne and Eden Hazard, and strikers Divock Origi and Romelo Lukaku. An impressive performance by U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard kept the score down.

Meanwhile, Argentina's attack hasn't been as fearsome as predicted. Center forward Gonzalo Higuain is scoreless after four games and his attacking partner Sergio Aguero is out injured. Ezequiel Lavezzi is replacing the Manchester City striker but was largely ineffective against Switzerland.

Then there's Messi.

The little genius has delivered when Argentina needed him most, scoring in every group stage match and setting up Angel Di Maria's extra-time winner against Switzerland in the round of 16.

In a tight game, the Swiss shackled him successfully until his decisive run in the 118th minute.

"We knew that we would face a situation like that, but that's football and we had luck on our side," Messi said. "We're aware that all matches are going to be very close and that details will make the difference."

Wilmots was unwilling to compare the strengths of the two teams but noted that except for a few players, Argentina's performance at the World Cup has exposed some weaknesses.

"Obviously they have Di Maria, Lavezzi, Higuain and Messi," Wilmots said. "But I also saw they showed a lack of balance within the team and that they had problems."

If Messi is in extraordinary form, he will cause problems for Belgium, Wilmots conceded Thursday. "But if you ask me as a coach whether I prefer a good collective or one great player, I prefer the team."

Argentina left back Sergio Rojo is suspended and will probably be replaced by Jose Basanta in Saturday's game.

Wilmots said Belgium left back Thomas Vermaelen is likely to return after missing the U.S. game with a hamstring injury, while midfielder Steven Defour is back from suspension.

Belgium and Argentina haven't met in the World Cup since the 1980s, when they were both at their peak.

In 1982, Belgium beat Argentina 1-0 in their World Cup opener. Four years later Diego Maradona scored both goals in a 2-0 semifinal win on Argentina's road to its second World Cup title.

SOURCE: http://www.firstpost.com/