Football

Napoli extended their dominance at the summit of Serie A with a commanding 2-0 victory over AC Milan at the San Siro on Tuesday. The triumph propelled Napoli to a seven-point lead over their rivals, solidifying their position as the league's frontrunners.Antonio Conte's resurgent Napoli side wasted no time in asserting their authority, with Romelu Lukaku opening the scoring within five minutes. The Belgian striker capitalized on a pass from Frank Anguissa, outmuscling a defender before coolly slotting the ball past Mike Maignan in the AC Milan goal.Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret was called into action twice before the half-hour mark, making crucial saves to preserve his side's advantage. As the clock ticked down to half-time, Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia doubled the visitors' lead with a sensational strike.Picking up the ball on the left wing, Kvaratskhelia drove inside on his right foot, evading Youssouf Fofana before unleashing a powerful shot from distance that flew into the far post beyond the reach of Maignan.AC Milan thought they had found a lifeline two minutes after the break when Alvaro Morata headed home. However, VAR intervened, ruling the goal offside in the build-up. The hosts continued to search for a way back into the encounter, but Napoli's defense held firm, with Meret making a fine reflex save to deny Rafael Leao in the 83rd minute.Elsewhere in Serie A, Bologna climbed to 10th in the table with a 2-0 win at Cagliari, thanks to goals from Riccardo Orsolini and Jens Odgaard. Lecce moved off the foot of the table by beating nine-man Verona 1-0, with Patrick Dorgu scoring the only goal of the game.

The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, a premier sports venue in New Delhi, has been left in a deplorable state following two concerts by Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh. Despite claims by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) that the stadium was cleaned after the event, a visit by IANS on Tuesday revealed a different story.The makeshift structure used for the concert remained partially dismantled, while the athletic track and surrounding areas were littered with trash, alcohol containers, and other debris. The sand pit for long jump was also in disarray, raising concerns about the stadium's readiness for Punjab FC's upcoming ISL match against Chennaiyin FC on Thursday.SAI's initial statement on Monday night claimed that the stadium was booked until October 28 and that the organizers were responsible for leaving the venue in its original condition. However, the current state of the stadium contradicts these claims.Track and field athlete Beant Singh first brought the stadium's poor condition to public attention through social media videos. He expressed concern about the damage to the track and the presence of alcohol in the stadium, which he considers a sacred place for athletes.An anonymous Asian Games medallist athlete echoed Singh's sentiments, stating that concerts should not be allowed in stadiums dedicated to player development. They also condemned the presence of alcohol in the stadium.SAI has declined to comment on the latest developments, leaving questions about the stadium's readiness for upcoming events unanswered. The condition of the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium highlights the need for stricter regulations and enforcement of venue usage to ensure that sports facilities are maintained for their intended purpose.

East Bengal FC, the Kolkata-based football club, will face Bashundhara Kings of Bangladesh in their second match of the AFC Challenge League on Tuesday, October 29. The match will be held in Bhutan at 8:30 PM IST.East Bengal began their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Paro FC of Bhutan in their opening match. Dimitri Diamantakos scored a brace for East Bengal, helping them salvage a point after trailing 2-0 at one stage.Bashundhara Kings, on the other hand, are the reigning champions of the Bangladesh Premier League. They have a strong squad with several experienced players, including former Bangladesh national team captain Jamal Bhuyan.East Bengal will be looking to improve their performance against Bashundhara Kings. They will need to be more clinical in front of goal and tighten up their defense. A win against Bashundhara Kings would give East Bengal a major boost in their quest to qualify for the AFC Cup.The match will not be televised in India, but it will be live streamed on the YouTube channel of Paro FC.

Sporting Lisbon's Ruben Amorim has emerged as the frontrunner to replace Erik ten Hag as Manchester United manager. The Portuguese coach, 39, is reportedly in talks with United after ten Hag's dismissal on Monday following a dismal start to the season.Amorim, considered one of Europe's top young coaches, has been linked with the Liverpool manager's role in the past. He was also linked with United after Jurgen Klopp's departure this year, but Arne Slot was appointed instead.United's decision to sack ten Hag came after a 2-1 defeat to West Ham left them 14th in the Premier League. Despite heavy spending in the summer transfer market, United have won only one of their last eight games in all competitions.Amorim's potential appointment would mark a significant shift in United's managerial strategy. The club has traditionally favored experienced managers, but Amorim's youth and attacking philosophy could signal a new era.However, Brentford's Thomas Frank and Fulham's Marco Silva are also reportedly being considered. Frank has impressed with Brentford's performances in the Premier League, while Silva has guided Fulham to promotion and a strong start to this season.United's search for a new manager comes amid a wider restructuring of the club's football operations. Co-owner Jim Ratcliffe has promised to rejuvenate the club, which has not won the Premier League title since 2013.Ten Hag's departure marks the end of a turbulent two-year reign. He won the League Cup and reached the FA Cup final in his first season, but his second season has been marred by poor results and a lack of clear playing style.Injuries to key players and the failure to integrate expensive signings have contributed to United's struggles. The club's new sporting structure, led by Ratcliffe, has also faced criticism for its lack of clarity and direction.Amorim's potential appointment would be a bold move by United. The Portuguese coach has a proven track record of success, but he has also shown a willingness to take risks. If he is appointed, he will face the challenge of rebuilding a United team that has lost its way in recent years.

Rodri's triumph at the Ballon d'Or 2024 has sent shockwaves through the football world, marking a significant victory for the often-underrated defensive midfielder. Despite the dominance of attackers and defenders in the spotlight, Rodri's consistent brilliance for both Manchester City and Spain has earned him the coveted award.In his acceptance speech, Rodri paid tribute to his teammates, particularly Dani Carvajal and Lamine Yamal, who played pivotal roles in Spain's Euro 2024 triumph. He also acknowledged the contributions of his girlfriend Laura, his family, and his agent Paulo.Rodri's journey to the top has been marked by resilience and determination. He recalled a time when he almost quit football as a teenager, but his father's unwavering support kept him going. This experience has shaped his character and instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance.Rodri's victory is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the importance of defensive midfielders in modern football. His ability to control the tempo of the game, break up opposition attacks, and initiate attacks has made him an indispensable asset for both club and country.The Ballon d'Or 2024 results have sparked a debate about the criteria for selecting the best player of the year. Some argue that attackers should always be favored due to their goal-scoring prowess, while others believe that defensive players deserve equal recognition for their contributions to team success.Rodri's triumph has reignited this discussion, highlighting the need for a more balanced approach to player evaluation. His victory is a reminder that football is a team sport, and that every position on the field plays a vital role in achieving success.

Aitana Bonmati, the Barcelona and Spain star, has etched her name in the annals of women's football by winning her second consecutive Ballon d'Or. The 26-year-old playmaker joins her teammate Alexia Putellas as the only women to have won the prestigious award twice since its inception in 2018.Bonmati's triumph is a testament to her exceptional talent and the remarkable season she had with Barcelona. The Catalans dominated the domestic and European scene, winning the Spanish league, Copa de la Reina, Supercopa de Espana, and the Women's Champions League. Bonmati was the driving force behind their success, scoring crucial goals and providing countless assists.Her performance in the Champions League final against Lyon was particularly impressive. Bonmati scored a goal and was named player of the match as Barcelona secured their third title in four seasons. "It's the first time we've beaten Lyon. I'm proud of the team, and we know that with these fans we have, we can't fail," she said after the match.Bonmati's influence extended beyond Barcelona. She was instrumental in Spain's victory in the inaugural Women's Nations League, scoring the opening goal in the final against France. Her performances earned her the UEFA Player of the Finals award.The diminutive midfielder's success is a reflection of her hard work and dedication. A product of Barcelona's famed La Masia academy, Bonmati has consistently raised her game to new heights. She is a role model for aspiring footballers, both on and off the pitch.Bonmati's Ballon d'Or victory is a fitting recognition of her exceptional talent and the impact she has had on women's football. She is an inspiration to young players and a symbol of the growing popularity and recognition of the women's game.

Mario Balotelli, the former Italy international striker, has found a new home at Genoa, a Serie A club struggling with injuries. Genoa, currently languishing in 18th place, has signed Balotelli until the end of the season to bolster their depleted attacking options.Balotelli, now 34, was once a rising star in Italian football, showcasing his prowess at Inter Milan, Manchester City, AC Milan, and Liverpool. However, his career has been marked by both on-field brilliance and off-field controversies.Despite his past, Genoa has taken a gamble on Balotelli, hoping to reignite his spark and help them escape the relegation zone. The club has been plagued by injuries, with seven players currently sidelined, including forwards Junior Messias, Vitinha, and Caleb Ekuban.Balotelli's arrival brings a wealth of experience to Genoa. He has played a pivotal role in three Serie A titles with Inter Milan and the 2010 Champions League triumph under Jose Mourinho. He also starred for Italy at Euro 2012, helping them reach the final.However, Balotelli has also faced his share of challenges. He has been the target of racist abuse in Italy, and his off-field antics have often overshadowed his on-field achievements.Despite these setbacks, Balotelli remains a talented striker with a proven track record. Genoa will be hoping that he can rediscover his form and help them avoid relegation. He is expected to make his debut against Fiorentina on Thursday.

Barcelona's El Clasico Triumph Resonates Globally, Including in IndiaBarcelona's emphatic 4-0 victory over Real Madrid in the El Clasico showdown on Saturday reverberated across the globe, capturing the attention of football enthusiasts worldwide. The match, a highly anticipated clash between two of the most iconic clubs in the sport, generated immense buzz and discussion, even in countries far removed from the European football scene.In India, the El Clasico match became a topic of conversation at the highest levels of government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a roadshow in Gujarat's Vadodara with his Spanish counterpart Pedro Sanchez, highlighted the intense passion with which the match was followed in India."Spanish football is liked a lot in India. Yesterday, the match between Real Madrid and Barcelona, and the discussions were held in India, too. Barcelona's brilliant win was a subject of discussion here as well. I can also tell you that there was as much banter between the fans of the two clubs in India, as it would've been in Spain," PM Modi said.PM Modi's remarks underscore the global reach of the El Clasico rivalry and the deep-rooted passion for football in India. The match, which is often billed as the biggest club match in the world, attracts a massive audience and generates intense emotions among fans.The El Clasico victory also has significant implications for Barcelona's title hopes in La Liga. The win puts them eight points clear of Real Madrid at the top of the table, strengthening their position as favorites to reclaim the league title.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) extended their dominance over arch-rivals Marseille with a resounding 3-0 victory at the Stade Velodrome on Sunday. The triumph propelled PSG to the summit of Ligue 1, three points clear of Monaco, who suffered their first defeat of the season.The highly-anticipated Classique was effectively decided by halftime as PSG raced to a commanding three-goal lead. Marseille's misery was compounded by the dismissal of Amine Harit for a reckless challenge on Marquinhos.PSG's Joao Neves opened the scoring early on, capitalizing on a goalkeeping error by Geronimo Rulli. The match took a decisive turn in the 20th minute when Harit was sent off, leaving Marseille with a numerical disadvantage.Just nine minutes later, Leonardo Balerdi inadvertently doubled PSG's lead with an own goal. Bradley Barcola then put the game beyond doubt with a clinical finish five minutes before the break.Marseille, who had started the season strongly, endured a chastening night as their 12-match winless streak against PSG at home continued. Hundreds of their fans had already departed by halftime, expressing their frustration with the team's lackluster performance."I'm disappointed," said Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi. "We had prepared a match of courage and personality. But up until Harit was sent off, there was neither courage nor personality."Meanwhile, Monaco's title hopes suffered a setback as they fell 2-1 to Nice in the Côte d'Azur derby. Breel Embolo gave Monaco the lead, but Nice rallied with goals from Evann Guessand and Gaetan Laborde. Monaco's defeat, coupled with PSG's victory, leaves them three points behind the league leaders."I'm not happy with the result," said Monaco coach Adi Huetter. "When you lose a derby, everyone is disappointed. But we're guilty because we had the game in our hands. And it came down to two stupid mistakes."In other Ligue 1 action, Lyon drew 2-2 with Auxerre, while Strasbourg climbed to the top half of the table with a 3-1 victory over Nantes. Toulouse also impressed with a 3-0 win at Montpellier.