Football

Spain's dominance throughout Euro 2024 has solidified their position as the clear favorites for Sunday's final against England. Despite England's dramatic victory over the Netherlands in the semi-finals, bookmakers remain confident in Spain's ability to secure a record fourth European crown.David Stevens, head of public relations at Coral, expressed his belief that Spain's exceptional performance throughout the tournament justifies their favoritism. However, he acknowledged the patriotic fervor among English punters, stating that even if England were to pull off an upset, the financial loss would be insignificant compared to the joy of a victory.William Woodhams, CEO of Fitzdares, echoed Stevens' sentiments, emphasizing that the emotional connection to England's success outweighs any potential financial setbacks. Woodhams also revealed a personal stake in England's triumph, as his son's nursery school sweepstake has him rooting for the Three Lions.Despite the tournament's impact on other betting markets, both Stevens and Woodhams acknowledged the growth in football betting. Stevens attributed this to the favorable timing of the matches for UK audiences, while Woodhams noted the tournament's overall slow pace and high number of draws, which have left many punters with depleted funds.Stevens expressed optimism that England's lackluster performances would be forgotten in the event of a victory. However, many punters remain skeptical, as evidenced by the shortening odds on England winning on penalties. Woodhams shared an anecdote about a client who had placed a substantial bet on England not to win, suggesting that some fans are bracing themselves for another nail-biting finish.Despite the potential for disappointment, both Stevens and Woodhams expressed their patriotic support for England. Stevens acknowledged that England's World Cup drought has spanned his entire lifetime, making a two-year wait for another title seem like a reasonable compromise.

James Rodriguez, the Colombian maestro who captivated the world at the 2014 World Cup, has rediscovered his brilliance on the international stage. Despite a decade of disappointment at club level, the 33-year-old playmaker has been instrumental in leading his team to the Copa America final.Rodriguez's impact on Colombia's run to the quarter-finals of the 2014 World Cup was undeniable. His six goals included a stunning volley against Uruguay that won FIFA's Puskas Award. His performances earned him a move to Real Madrid, but he failed to live up to expectations and his club career has been marked by a series of loan spells and transfers.However, with Colombia, Rodriguez has found a renewed sense of purpose. Coach Nestor Lorenzo has given him a central role, allowing him to dictate play and create chances for his teammates. Rodriguez has responded with a tournament-record six assists and a goal."Since I took over the national team, I followed him and whenever he played (for his clubs) he did interesting things but we needed him to play," said Lorenzo.Rodriguez's resurgence has been a boon for Colombia. His clever passing and ability to find space have unlocked defenses and brought the best out of the team's attacking talents."The chance for a great player to play and get minutes gives him the opportunity to show what he can do. If he plays less, he is going to have less chance," added Lorenzo.Rodriguez's teammates are full of praise for their talisman. Liverpool winger Luis Diaz, who has been one of Colombia's standout performers at the Copa America, described Rodriguez as his idol."He has always been my idol along with (Radamel) Falcao and (Juan Guillermo) Cuadrado, who I used to watch on television when I was a kid. I keep telling James: 'You're a superstar! I admire you a lot and you deserve it,'" said Diaz.While Argentina are the favorites in Sunday's final, Colombia and Rodriguez will be determined to make history. A victory would give Colombia their second Copa America title and provide Rodriguez with a fitting end to a rollercoaster career.

Spain's captivating performance at Euro 2024 has captivated neutral fans and inspired admiration from football enthusiasts worldwide. Their relentless attacking style, coupled with a resilient defense, has propelled them to the final, where they face England.Spain's journey to the final has been marked by their ability to adapt and overcome challenges. They emerged from a competitive group that included Italy, Croatia, and Albania, showcasing their tactical flexibility and squad depth. In the knockout rounds, they overcame Georgia, Germany, and France, demonstrating their resilience and determination.One of the key factors behind Spain's success is their attacking prowess. They have played with a high tempo, creating numerous chances and scoring goals at a prolific rate. Their young talents, such as Pedri and Gavi, have been instrumental in their attacking play, providing creativity and dynamism.However, Spain's success is not solely based on their attacking prowess. They have also displayed a strong defensive structure, conceding the fewest shots on target per game at Euro 2024. Their high press and aggressive tackling have forced opponents into errors and limited their scoring opportunities.Spain's style of play has not only been effective but also entertaining. They have played with a flair and passion that has captivated fans. Their ability to switch between formations and adapt to different situations has made them a formidable opponent.If Spain emerges victorious in the final, it will be a testament to their commitment to attacking football. Their triumph will inspire other nations to embrace a more progressive and entertaining style of play. However, a defeat could lead to a reassessment of their approach, potentially slowing down the evolution of attacking football in the international game.

Former Indian football captain Bhaichung Bhutia has predicted a Spanish victory in the Euro Cup final against England on Sunday. Bhutia believes that Spain's balanced team and the brilliance of young stars Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams will prove too much for England."Spain definitely has the upper hand in the final," Bhutia said. "They've been playing exceptionally well, with six wins out of six. They're technically sound and in great form."Bhutia singled out Yamal, a 17-year-old winger, as a player to watch. "He's a superstar in the making," Bhutia said. "He's got assists, he's got goals, and he knows when to release the ball and when to dribble past defenders. He's a player who makes the right decisions, and that's a rare quality for someone so young."Bhutia also praised Williams, another young Spanish winger. "He's got pace and can be a major factor in game-changing moments," Bhutia said. "If he can get his judgment right, he's going to be a huge problem for England."While Bhutia acknowledges England's quality, he believes their defensive formation under manager Gareth Southgate will hinder their chances. "I've never been a fan of Southgate's defensive approach," Bhutia said. "They have quality players who should be playing free-flowing, attacking football like Spain."However, Bhutia still believes England captain Harry Kane is a threat. "He's a natural goal scorer," Bhutia said. "He's scored goals in the Premier League, Bundesliga, and for Bayern Munich. He's one of the best goal scorers in this generation. If you have to bet on anyone to score goals, it's Harry Kane."

Five years after the thrilling 2019 Wimbledon final and the heartbreaking ODI World Cup loss for New Zealand, July 14, 2024, promises another unforgettable day for sports enthusiasts worldwide.Copa America 2024 Final: Argentina vs. ColombiaAt 5:30 AM IST, the Copa America 2024 final will kick off in Miami, featuring Argentina and Colombia. Led by the legendary Lionel Messi, Argentina aims to secure their 16th Copa America title and surpass Uruguay as the most successful team in the competition's history. Colombia, last crowned champions in 2001, will pose a formidable challenge.Zimbabwe vs. India, 5th T20IAt 4:30 PM IST, Harare will host the fifth and final T20I match between Zimbabwe and India. The series marks a new era for India without Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who have retired from the format. Under the leadership of Shubman Gill, India has taken a 2-1 lead in the series and aims to seal the victory in the final match.Wimbledon 2024 Men's Singles Final: Carlos Alcaraz vs. Novak DjokovicAt 6:30 PM IST, the iconic Centre Court at the All England Club will witness a highly anticipated rematch between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic. In 2023, Alcaraz denied Djokovic a record-breaking Wimbledon title in a thrilling five-set match. Djokovic avenged the loss twice last year, but the Wimbledon final provides the perfect stage for a grand rematch. Alcaraz seeks his fourth major title, while Djokovic aims for an eighth Wimbledon crown and a record-equaling 25th Grand Slam.Euro 2024 Final: Spain vs. EnglandAt 12:30 AM IST on Monday, the Euro 2024 final will take place in Berlin, pitting Spain against England. Spain, led by rising star Lamine Yamal, has dominated the tournament, winning all six matches. England, playing in their second consecutive final, hopes to end their major title drought since the 1966 World Cup.

The 133rd edition of the Durand Cup, Asia's oldest and the world's fifth oldest football tournament, is set to kick off on July 27th in Kolkata. The tournament will feature 24 teams divided into six groups, with matches taking place in four cities: Kolkata, Kokrajhar, Shillong, and Jamshedpur.The inaugural match will see reigning champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant face off against Downtown Heroes FC of Kashmir. The much-anticipated Kolkata Derby between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal will take place on August 18th, serving as the final group game.Group A, B, and C matches will be played in Kolkata, while Jamshedpur will host Group D matches. Jamshedpur FC will face Bangladesh Army Football Team in the first match in Jamshedpur.Group E games will commence in Kokrajhar on July 30th, with local side Bodoland FC taking on ISL side NorthEast United FC. Shillong, another first-time host, will see Shillong Lajong FC take on Nepal's Tribhuvan Army Football Team in the opening fixture of Group F.The tournament will feature a total of 43 matches, with the six group toppers and two best second-placed teams qualifying for the knockouts. The Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kishore Bharati Krirangan, JRD Tata Sports Complex, SAI Stadium, and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will host the matches.The Durand Cup has a rich history, having been first played in 1888. It is a prestigious tournament that has seen some of the biggest names in Indian football participate over the years. The tournament is expected to attract a large number of fans and generate significant excitement in the Indian football community.

Gareth Southgate's pragmatic approach has transformed England's fortunes, leading them to successive European Championship finals and a World Cup semi-final. Despite criticism for their cautious style, England's resilience and determination have proven effective.Southgate took over a team in disarray after their humiliating Euro 2016 exit to Iceland. He has instilled a sense of belief and unity, creating a team that is greater than the sum of its parts.England's success is not based on flair or panache. They have relied on a solid defense, a strong midfield, and a clinical attack. Their ability to grind out results and win matches in the dying minutes has been crucial.Southgate's attention to detail extends to penalty shootouts. He has implemented a rigorous training program that has helped England overcome their historical struggles in this area.Despite his success, Southgate has faced criticism for his perceived conservatism. However, he has defended his approach, arguing that it is necessary to maintain continuity and confidence within the team.Southgate's pragmatic style may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, but it has been highly effective. He has transformed England into a team that is capable of competing with the best in the world.

Uruguay's Copa America campaign ended in controversy and violence as players clashed with fans following a 1-0 semifinal loss to Colombia. The incident occurred after a physical and emotional match that saw seven yellow cards and one red card.As players exchanged words and shoves at midfield, Uruguay's Darwin Núñez noticed an altercation behind the team's bench. About a dozen players climbed into the stands as the melee continued. Some players were seen throwing punches before Charlotte Mecklenburg Police officers and stadium security restored order after about 10 minutes.Uruguay striker Luis Suárez defended his teammates' actions, saying they were necessary to protect their families and supporters. "Obviously when one has your woman, your little child, your father, elderly people you want to go and see if they're OK," Suárez said. "Here these things, it's an image that no one wants to have created but obviously if someone is attacking your family you want to go and defend them."However, Suárez acknowledged that the incident was unacceptable. "But that doesn't justify the image that it created. We had to protect our families that were there."CONMEBOL, South American soccer's governing body, opened an investigation into the incident. "It is unacceptable that an incident like this turns passion into violence," the statement said.Suárez said he saw family members and children in the crowd and worried about their safety. More than 70,000 fans attended the game, and at least 90% cheered for Colombia and wore their bright yellow colors."They were trapped and things were falling on them and you felt helpless," Suárez said.Uruguay's José María Giménez called the situation a "disaster." "Our family is in danger," Giménez told Fox. "We had to get on top of the stands ASAP to rescue our loved ones with babies. ... It's a disaster because all of the matches are the same. Our families are in danger because of some who drink one or two shots of alcohol that don't know to drink and behave like children."Stadium seating choices for families and friends of players were arranged by Uruguayan soccer's governing body. More protected luxury suites were an option. The Uruguayan soccer association has not made a public statement on the fight.CONMEBOL has not said if any Uruguay players face suspension for entering the stands or throwing punches at Colombia fans. The governing body released a statement after the game saying it condemns any act of violence and that "we invite everyone in the remaining days to pour all of their passion into cheering on their national teams and having an unforgettable party."The Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department has not said whether arrests were made, and stadium officials have not commented publicly.

Spain's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has taken the Euro 2024 by storm, becoming the youngest scorer in the tournament's history. However, his remarkable performances have been tempered by a unique challenge: Germany's labor laws.Yamal, who will turn 17 on the eve of the final against England, has been a revelation for Spain. His goal against France in the semi-final was a moment of brilliance, showcasing his exceptional talent and composure.Despite his obvious ability, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has been unable to field Yamal for a full game due to German labor laws. These laws prohibit young people under 18 from working past 8 PM on weekdays and 11 PM on weekends.The Spanish Football Association (RFEF) faces a hefty fine of 30,000 euros if Yamal plays beyond the permitted hours. This has forced de la Fuente to substitute Yamal off in the latter stages of matches, limiting his playing time.De la Fuente has expressed his admiration for Yamal's talent, describing him as a "genius." He has urged the young forward to maintain his humility and work ethic, predicting a bright future for him."He's a player we have to take care of," de la Fuente said. "He has the maturity and attitude of a more experienced player. We are lucky he is Spanish and we can enjoy him for many more years."Yamal's situation highlights the challenges faced by young athletes who compete in countries with strict labor laws. While these laws are designed to protect young people, they can also limit their opportunities to showcase their talents on the biggest stage.