Last week, French international Karim Benzema completed his transfer from Olympique Lyon to Real Madrid. Real Madrid’s chairman Florentino Pérez has now spent 209 million euros on new players.
According to Infostrada Sports, in the 2000/2001 season, Pérez spent 100.3 million euros on new players as Real Madrid’s chairman.
Biggest spending seasons by Florentino Pérez as Real Madrid chairman
Euro Season Player(s)
209.0 2009/2010 Cristiano Ronaldo (POR), Kaká (BRA), Karim Benzema (FRA), Raúl Albiol (ESP)
100.3 2000/2001 Luis Figo (POR), Flávio Conceiçao (POR), Claude Makélélé (FRA)
90.1 2005/2006 Sergio Ramos (ESP), Robinho (BRA), Julio Baptista (BRA), Antonio Cassano (ITA), Carlos Diogo (URU), Cicinho (BRA), Pablo García (URU)
75.8 2001/2002 Zinedine Zidane (FRA)
60.4 2004/2005 Walter Samuel (ARG), Jonathan Woodgate (ENG), Michael Owen (ENG), Thomas Gravesen (DEN)
45.0 2002/2003 Ronaldo (BRA)
35.1 2003/2004 David Beckham (ENG)
Top-15 Biggest Transfers by Real Madrid chairman Florentino Pérez
Euro Name Nation From Year
94.0 Cristiano Ronaldo POR Manchester United 2009
75.8 Zinedine Zidane FRA Juventus 2001
65.0 Kaká BRA AC Milan 2009
61.3 Luis Figo POR FC Barcelona 2000
45.0 Ronaldo BRA Internazionale 2002
35.1 David Beckham ENG Manchester United 2003
35.0* Karim Benzema FRA Olympique Lyon 2009
27.1 Sergio Ramos ESP Sevilla FC 2005
25.0 Flávio Conceição BRA Deportivo La Coruña 2000
24.5 Robinho BRA Santos 2005
23.0 Walter Samuel ARG AS Roma 2004
22.0 Jonathan Woodgate ENG Newcastle United 2004
20.0 Julio Baptista BRA Sevilla FC 2005
15.0 Raúl Albiol ESP Valencia CF 2009
14.0 Claude Makélélé FRA Celta de Vigo 2000
* transfer fee may rise to 41 million depending on Real Madrid’s results
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
FC Barcelona treble
On Wednesday, FC Barcelona won the Champions League after beating Manchester United in the final. FC Barcelona is the ninth club to win a European treble, having already won the Domestic League and Domestic Cup this season.
Barcelona now have won the most coveted European trophy three times, equalling Manchester United for sixth most in the history of the Champions Cup/Champions League.
Accrding to Infostrada, the treble, with Champions Cup/Champions League, is now won in every decade since the 1960s. Celtic (1967), Ajax (1972), PSV (1988) and Manchester United (1999) are the clubs to do so before Barcelona.
Most Champions Cup/Champions League winners
# Club Nation Years
9 Real Madrid ESP 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1966, 1998, 2000, 2002
7 AC Milan ITA 1963, 1969, 1989, 1990, 1994, 2003, 2007
5 Liverpool ENG 1977, 1978, 1981, 1984, 2005
4 Ajax NED 1971, 1972, 1973, 1995
4 Bayern München FRG, GER 1974, 1975, 1976, 2001
3 Manchester United ENG 1968, 1999, 2008
3 FC Barcelona ESP 1992, 2006, 2009
Barcelona now have won the most coveted European trophy three times, equalling Manchester United for sixth most in the history of the Champions Cup/Champions League.
Accrding to Infostrada, the treble, with Champions Cup/Champions League, is now won in every decade since the 1960s. Celtic (1967), Ajax (1972), PSV (1988) and Manchester United (1999) are the clubs to do so before Barcelona.
Most Champions Cup/Champions League winners
# Club Nation Years
9 Real Madrid ESP 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1966, 1998, 2000, 2002
7 AC Milan ITA 1963, 1969, 1989, 1990, 1994, 2003, 2007
5 Liverpool ENG 1977, 1978, 1981, 1984, 2005
4 Ajax NED 1971, 1972, 1973, 1995
4 Bayern München FRG, GER 1974, 1975, 1976, 2001
3 Manchester United ENG 1968, 1999, 2008
3 FC Barcelona ESP 1992, 2006, 2009
Thursday, May 14, 2009
What a Bundesliga!
“Die Borussen” have lost only five matches so far in the season. VfL Wolfsburg, Bayern München and VfB Stuttgart all have seven defeats.
Eighth ranked Schalke 04 are on pace to become the club with the fewest goals conceded in the 2008/2009 season.
In the 1995/1996 season only 1 FC Köln were ranked lower (12th) as the team that conceded the fewest goals that season in the Bundesliga.
Lowest ranked team with fewest defeats in a Bundesliga season
| Final ranking | Club | Season | Matches lost |
| 6* | Borussia Dortmund | 2008/2009 | 5 |
| 3 | Eintracht Braunschweig | 1976/1977 | 6 |
| 3 | 1. FC Köln | 1987/1988 | 4 |
| 3 | Eintracht Frankfurt | 1991/1992 | 6 |
| 3 | Borussia Dortmund | 2000/2001 | 8 |
| 3 | Bayern München | 2001/2002 | 6 |
| 2 | Borussia Mönchengladbach | 1977/1978 | 6 |
| 2 | VfB Stuttgart | 1978/1979 | 6 |
| 2 | Hamburger SV | 1979/1980 | 6 |
| 2 | Werder Bremen | 1985/1986 | 5 |
| 2 | Borussia Dortmund | 1991/1992 | 6 |
| 2 | Bayern München | 1992/1993 | 5 |
| 2 | Bayer Leverkusen | 1999/2000 | 3 |
| 2 | FC Schalke 04 | 2000/2001 | 8 |
* Note: After 32 of 34 match rounds
Lowest ranked team with fewest goals conceded in a Bundesliga season
| Final ranking | Club | Season | Goals conceded |
| 12 | 1. FC Köln | 1995/1996 | 35 |
| 8* | FC Schalke 04 | 2008/2009 | 32 |
| 6 | 1. FC Nürnberg | 2006/2007 | 32 |
| 5 | Fortuna Düsseldorf | 1977/1978 | 36 |
| 5 | FC Schalke 04 | 1997/1998 | 32 |
| 4 | Hamburger SV | 1974/1975 | 38 |
| 4 | 1. FC Kaiserslautern | 1980/1981 | 37 |
| 4 | Bayern München | 1982/1983 | 33 |
| 4 | VfB Stuttgart | 2003/2004 | 24 |
| 4 | Hertha BSC | 2004/2005 | 31 |
* Note: After 32 of 34 match rounds
Friday, May 8, 2009
Arsenal vs Chelsea preview: the match of the week
Chelsea visit Arsenal on Sunday, having collected just one point this season from their five previous fixtures against Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United. According to Infostrada, if Chelsea fail to win, they will have recorded the lowest total in Premier League history in matches between these four clubs.
Premier League matches between Big Four – 2008/2009 season
Rank Club P W D L Pts F A
1 Liverpool 6 4 2 0 14 14 7
2 Arsenal 4 2 2 0 8 9 7
3 Manchester United 5 1 1 3 4 7 9
4 Chelsea 5 0 1 4 1 2 9
Least points in PL matches between Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United
# Club P W D L Season
1 Chelsea 5 0 1 4 2008/2009
3 Manchester United 6 1 0 5 2001/2002
3 Liverpool 6 1 0 5 2004/2005
4 Arsenal 6 1 1 4 1994/1995
4 Arsenal 6 1 1 4 1996/1997
4 Chelsea 6 1 1 4 1997/1998
4 Liverpool 6 0 4 2 1998/1999
4 Arsenal 6 1 1 4 2005/2006
4 Liverpool 6 1 1 4 2005/2006
4 Liverpool 6 0 4 2 2007/2008
4 Manchester United 5 1 1 3 2008/2009
Premier League matches between Big Four – 2008/2009 season
Rank Club P W D L Pts F A
1 Liverpool 6 4 2 0 14 14 7
2 Arsenal 4 2 2 0 8 9 7
3 Manchester United 5 1 1 3 4 7 9
4 Chelsea 5 0 1 4 1 2 9
Least points in PL matches between Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United
# Club P W D L Season
1 Chelsea 5 0 1 4 2008/2009
3 Manchester United 6 1 0 5 2001/2002
3 Liverpool 6 1 0 5 2004/2005
4 Arsenal 6 1 1 4 1994/1995
4 Arsenal 6 1 1 4 1996/1997
4 Chelsea 6 1 1 4 1997/1998
4 Liverpool 6 0 4 2 1998/1999
4 Arsenal 6 1 1 4 2005/2006
4 Liverpool 6 1 1 4 2005/2006
4 Liverpool 6 0 4 2 2007/2008
4 Manchester United 5 1 1 3 2008/2009
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Alex Ferguson shouted five
Manchester United beat Arsenal 3-1 to reach the 2009 Champions League final. Alex Ferguson will lead a team out for the fifth time in a European final, a feat achieved by only eight head coaches before him.
Giovanni Trapattoni is the record holder with seven European finals as head coach of Juventus, Internazionale and AC Milan.
Trapattoni is also the only head coach to win five European finals, a record which Ferguson can equal on 27 May having been on the winning side of his four previous European finals as head coach.
Most European finals as head coach
# Name Nation European finals as head coach
7 Giovanni Trapattoni ITA Champions Cup 1983, 1985; Cup Winners’ Cup 1974, 1984; UEFA Cup 1977, 1992, 1993
5 Miguel Muñoz ESP Champions Cup 1960, 1962, 1964, 1966; Cup Winners’ Cup 1971
5 Ernst Happel AUT Champions Cup 1970, 1978, 1983; UEFA Cup 1976, 1982
5 Udo Lattek GER Champions Cup 1974, 1977, 1987; Cup Winners’ Cup 1982; UEFA Cup 1979
5 Raymond Goethals BEL Champions Cup/Champions League 1991, 1993; Cup Winners’ Cup 1977, 1978, 1982
5 Johan Cruijff NED Champions Cup/Champions League 1992, 1994; Cup Winners’ Cup 1987, 1989, 1991
5 Sven-Göran Eriksson SWE Champions Cup 1990; Cup Winners’ Cup 1999; UEFA Cup 1982, 1983, 1998
5 Marcello Lippi ITA Champions League 1996, 1997, 1998, 2003; UEFA Cup 1995
5 Alex Ferguson SCO Champions League 1999, 2008, 2009; Cup Winners’ Cup 1983, 1991
4 José Villalonga ESP Champions Cup 1956, 1957; Cup Winners’ Cup 1962, 1963
4 Helenio Herrera ITA Champions Cup 1964, 1965, 1967; Fairs Cup 1960
4 Don Revie ENG Cup Winners’ Cup 1973; Fairs Cup/UEFA Cup 1967, 1968, 1971
4 Nereo Rocco ITA Champions Cup 1963, 1969; Cup Winners’ Cup 1968, 1973
4 Bob Paisley ENG Champions Cup 1977, 1978, 1981; UEFA Cup 1976
4 Vujadin Boskov YUG Champions Cup 1981, 1992; Cup Winners’ Cup 1989, 1990
4 Ottmar Hitzfeld GER Champions League 1997, 1999, 2001; UEFA Cup 1993
Giovanni Trapattoni is the record holder with seven European finals as head coach of Juventus, Internazionale and AC Milan.
Trapattoni is also the only head coach to win five European finals, a record which Ferguson can equal on 27 May having been on the winning side of his four previous European finals as head coach.
Most European finals as head coach
# Name Nation European finals as head coach
7 Giovanni Trapattoni ITA Champions Cup 1983, 1985; Cup Winners’ Cup 1974, 1984; UEFA Cup 1977, 1992, 1993
5 Miguel Muñoz ESP Champions Cup 1960, 1962, 1964, 1966; Cup Winners’ Cup 1971
5 Ernst Happel AUT Champions Cup 1970, 1978, 1983; UEFA Cup 1976, 1982
5 Udo Lattek GER Champions Cup 1974, 1977, 1987; Cup Winners’ Cup 1982; UEFA Cup 1979
5 Raymond Goethals BEL Champions Cup/Champions League 1991, 1993; Cup Winners’ Cup 1977, 1978, 1982
5 Johan Cruijff NED Champions Cup/Champions League 1992, 1994; Cup Winners’ Cup 1987, 1989, 1991
5 Sven-Göran Eriksson SWE Champions Cup 1990; Cup Winners’ Cup 1999; UEFA Cup 1982, 1983, 1998
5 Marcello Lippi ITA Champions League 1996, 1997, 1998, 2003; UEFA Cup 1995
5 Alex Ferguson SCO Champions League 1999, 2008, 2009; Cup Winners’ Cup 1983, 1991
4 José Villalonga ESP Champions Cup 1956, 1957; Cup Winners’ Cup 1962, 1963
4 Helenio Herrera ITA Champions Cup 1964, 1965, 1967; Fairs Cup 1960
4 Don Revie ENG Cup Winners’ Cup 1973; Fairs Cup/UEFA Cup 1967, 1968, 1971
4 Nereo Rocco ITA Champions Cup 1963, 1969; Cup Winners’ Cup 1968, 1973
4 Bob Paisley ENG Champions Cup 1977, 1978, 1981; UEFA Cup 1976
4 Vujadin Boskov YUG Champions Cup 1981, 1992; Cup Winners’ Cup 1989, 1990
4 Ottmar Hitzfeld GER Champions League 1997, 1999, 2001; UEFA Cup 1993
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Real Madrid vs FC Barcelona preview: the match of the week
Today, Real Madrid host La Liga leaders FC Barcelona in Bernabéu. Of all the current players, Raúl is the most experienced with 10 goals and 26 appearances in El Clásico.
According to Infostrada The only players with more goals in El Clásico are Alfredo Di Stéfano (Real Madrid) with 14 and César Rodríguez (FC Barcelona) with 12.
Only three players have made more appearances in fixtures between Real Madrid and Barcelona, Francisco Gento (31), Manuel Sanchís (29) and Carlos Santillana (28).
The first top flight encounter between these two clubs dates back to 17 February 1929 when Real secured a 2-1 win at FC Barcelona.
In total Real have the upper hand with 68 wins compared to Barça’s 59 victories.
Most goals in ‘El Clásico’ – current players # Name Club Era
10 Raúl Real Madrid 1995-2008
4 Ruud van Nistelrooy Real Madrid 2006-2008
4 Lionel Messi FC Barcelona 2005-2008
4 Samuel Eto’o FC Barcelona 2004-2008
2 Xavi FC Barcelona 2000-2008
Most matches in ‘El Clásico’ – current players # Name Club Era
26 Raúl Real Madrid 1995-2008
18 Carles Puyol FC Barcelona 1999-2008
17 Iker Casillas Real Madrid 2000-2008
17 Xavi FC Barcelona 2000-2008
16 Guti Real Madrid 1999-2008
Real Madrid vs FC Barcelona in La Liga Real Madrid FC Barcelona
157 Matches Played 157
68 Matches won 59
30 Matches drawn 30
59 Matches lost 68
260 Goals scored 237
237 Goals conceded 260
8-2 (03 Feb 1935) Biggest win home 7-2 (24 Sep 1950)
1-5 (27 Jan 1963) Biggest win away 0-5 (17 Feb 1974)
0-5 (17 Feb 1974) Biggest defeat home 1-5 (27 Jan 1963)
7-2 (24 Sep 1950) Biggest defeat away 8-2 (03 Feb 1935)
According to Infostrada The only players with more goals in El Clásico are Alfredo Di Stéfano (Real Madrid) with 14 and César Rodríguez (FC Barcelona) with 12.
Only three players have made more appearances in fixtures between Real Madrid and Barcelona, Francisco Gento (31), Manuel Sanchís (29) and Carlos Santillana (28).
The first top flight encounter between these two clubs dates back to 17 February 1929 when Real secured a 2-1 win at FC Barcelona.
In total Real have the upper hand with 68 wins compared to Barça’s 59 victories.
Most goals in ‘El Clásico’ – current players # Name Club Era
10 Raúl Real Madrid 1995-2008
4 Ruud van Nistelrooy Real Madrid 2006-2008
4 Lionel Messi FC Barcelona 2005-2008
4 Samuel Eto’o FC Barcelona 2004-2008
2 Xavi FC Barcelona 2000-2008
Most matches in ‘El Clásico’ – current players # Name Club Era
26 Raúl Real Madrid 1995-2008
18 Carles Puyol FC Barcelona 1999-2008
17 Iker Casillas Real Madrid 2000-2008
17 Xavi FC Barcelona 2000-2008
16 Guti Real Madrid 1999-2008
Real Madrid vs FC Barcelona in La Liga Real Madrid FC Barcelona
157 Matches Played 157
68 Matches won 59
30 Matches drawn 30
59 Matches lost 68
260 Goals scored 237
237 Goals conceded 260
8-2 (03 Feb 1935) Biggest win home 7-2 (24 Sep 1950)
1-5 (27 Jan 1963) Biggest win away 0-5 (17 Feb 1974)
0-5 (17 Feb 1974) Biggest defeat home 1-5 (27 Jan 1963)
7-2 (24 Sep 1950) Biggest defeat away 8-2 (03 Feb 1935)
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Juventus vs Internazionale preview: the match of the week
On Saturday, 18 April, Juventus and Internazionale clash in the Serie A in Turin. Both clubs have scored at least once in every Serie A match since November last year.
Inter are currently on a run of 22 matches in which they have scored at least once. Their club record is 24 consecutive matches with at least one goal.
Juventus have scored in the last 18 matches. Juve also hold the all-time record in the Serie A with 35 matches in a row in which they have scored.
Longest scoring streaks Internazionale in Serie A
# Start date Last match before streak Match that ended streak
24 06 Nov 1949 Novara - Internazionale (30 Oct 1949) 0-0 Torino - Internazionale (30 Apr 1950) 1-0
23 10 Feb 2002 Internazionale - Torino (02 Feb 2002) 0-0 AC Milan - Internazionale (23 Nov 2002) 1-0
22 01 Nov 2008 Fiorentina - Internazionale (29 Oct 2008) 0-0 Still running
22 25 Oct 2006 Udinese - Internazionale (22 Oct 2006) 0-0 Reggina - Internazionale (07 Apr 2007) 0-0
19 31 Jan 1965 Internazionale - Varese (24 Jan 1965) 0-0 AS Roma - Internazionale (26 Sep 1965) 2-0
18 28 Mar 1954 AC Milan - Internazionale (21 Mar 1954) 2-0 Genoa - Internazionale (21 Nov 1954) 2-0
17 11 May 1997 Internazionale - Vicenza (03 May 1997) 0-1 Udinese - Internazionale (21 Dec 1997) 1-0
16 07 Mar 1971 Cagliari - Internazionale (28 Feb 1971) 0-0 Napoli - Internazionale (14 Nov 1971) 0-0
16 15 Apr 2007 Reggina - Internazionale (07 Apr 2007) 0-0 Palermo - Internazionale (28 Oct 2007) 0-0
16 08 Mar 2008 Napoli - Internazionale (02 Mar 2008) 1-0 AC Milan - Internazionale (28 Sep 2008) 1-0
Longest scoring streaks Juventus in Serie A
# Start date Last match before streak Match that ended streak
35 28 Apr 1957 Bologna - Juventus (14 Apr 1957) 1-0 Atalanta - Juventus (27 Apr 1958) 0-0
34 24 Apr 2005 Juventus - Internazionale (20 Apr 2005) 0-1 Juventus - AC Milan (12 Mar 2006) 0-0
26 07 Feb 1943 Torino - Juventus (31 Jan 1943) 2-0 Modena - Juventus (03 Feb 1946) 0-0
24 20 Nov 1960 Torino - Juventus (13 Nov 1960) 0-0 Padova - Juventus (30 May 1961) 1-0
21 07 Jun 1959 SS Lazio - Juventus (02 Jun 1959) 1-0 Juventus - Atalanta (28 Feb 1960) 0-1
19 11 Sep 1949 Padova - Juventus (05 Jun 1949) 3-0 Fiorentina - Juventus (15 Jan 1950) 0-0
18 29 Nov 2008 Internazionale - Juventus (22 Nov 2008) 1-0 Still running
18 10 Apr 1993 Udinese - Juventus (04 Apr 1993) 0-0 Parma - Juventus (07 Nov 1993) 2-0
18 30 Mar 2002 Parma - Juventus (23 Mar 2002) 1-0 Brescia - Juventus (08 Dec 2002) 2-0
Inter are currently on a run of 22 matches in which they have scored at least once. Their club record is 24 consecutive matches with at least one goal.
Juventus have scored in the last 18 matches. Juve also hold the all-time record in the Serie A with 35 matches in a row in which they have scored.
Longest scoring streaks Internazionale in Serie A
# Start date Last match before streak Match that ended streak
24 06 Nov 1949 Novara - Internazionale (30 Oct 1949) 0-0 Torino - Internazionale (30 Apr 1950) 1-0
23 10 Feb 2002 Internazionale - Torino (02 Feb 2002) 0-0 AC Milan - Internazionale (23 Nov 2002) 1-0
22 01 Nov 2008 Fiorentina - Internazionale (29 Oct 2008) 0-0 Still running
22 25 Oct 2006 Udinese - Internazionale (22 Oct 2006) 0-0 Reggina - Internazionale (07 Apr 2007) 0-0
19 31 Jan 1965 Internazionale - Varese (24 Jan 1965) 0-0 AS Roma - Internazionale (26 Sep 1965) 2-0
18 28 Mar 1954 AC Milan - Internazionale (21 Mar 1954) 2-0 Genoa - Internazionale (21 Nov 1954) 2-0
17 11 May 1997 Internazionale - Vicenza (03 May 1997) 0-1 Udinese - Internazionale (21 Dec 1997) 1-0
16 07 Mar 1971 Cagliari - Internazionale (28 Feb 1971) 0-0 Napoli - Internazionale (14 Nov 1971) 0-0
16 15 Apr 2007 Reggina - Internazionale (07 Apr 2007) 0-0 Palermo - Internazionale (28 Oct 2007) 0-0
16 08 Mar 2008 Napoli - Internazionale (02 Mar 2008) 1-0 AC Milan - Internazionale (28 Sep 2008) 1-0
Longest scoring streaks Juventus in Serie A
# Start date Last match before streak Match that ended streak
35 28 Apr 1957 Bologna - Juventus (14 Apr 1957) 1-0 Atalanta - Juventus (27 Apr 1958) 0-0
34 24 Apr 2005 Juventus - Internazionale (20 Apr 2005) 0-1 Juventus - AC Milan (12 Mar 2006) 0-0
26 07 Feb 1943 Torino - Juventus (31 Jan 1943) 2-0 Modena - Juventus (03 Feb 1946) 0-0
24 20 Nov 1960 Torino - Juventus (13 Nov 1960) 0-0 Padova - Juventus (30 May 1961) 1-0
21 07 Jun 1959 SS Lazio - Juventus (02 Jun 1959) 1-0 Juventus - Atalanta (28 Feb 1960) 0-1
19 11 Sep 1949 Padova - Juventus (05 Jun 1949) 3-0 Fiorentina - Juventus (15 Jan 1950) 0-0
18 29 Nov 2008 Internazionale - Juventus (22 Nov 2008) 1-0 Still running
18 10 Apr 1993 Udinese - Juventus (04 Apr 1993) 0-0 Parma - Juventus (07 Nov 1993) 2-0
18 30 Mar 2002 Parma - Juventus (23 Mar 2002) 1-0 Brescia - Juventus (08 Dec 2002) 2-0
Friday, April 17, 2009
Az Almaar Dutch Eredivisie champion? What an improvement!
On Saturday, AZ can clinch the Dutch 2008/2009 Eredivisie title if they beat Vitesse at home. The Alkmaar based club will then have improved from an 11th place finish in the previous season.
Only DWS and Ajax have won the Eredivisie after finishing in a lower position in the previous season. According to Infostrada Sports, if AZ win the championship it will be their second title after winning the Eredivisie in 1980/1981.
Lowest rank Eredivisie Champions previous season
Final rank before Club Previous season Championship Season
1 (2nd level) DWS 1962/1963 1963/1964
13 Ajax 1964/1965 1965/1966
11 AZ 2007/2008 2008/2009
10 DOS 1956/1957 1957/1958
9 Sparta 1957/1958 1958/1959
6 Ajax 1958/1959 1959/1960
4 Feyenoord 1997/1998 1998/1999
4 Ajax 1996/1997 1997/1998
4 PSV 1973/1974 1974/1975
4 Feyenoord 1963/1964 1964/1965
4 Ajax 1955/1956 1956/1957
Only DWS and Ajax have won the Eredivisie after finishing in a lower position in the previous season. According to Infostrada Sports, if AZ win the championship it will be their second title after winning the Eredivisie in 1980/1981.
Lowest rank Eredivisie Champions previous season
Final rank before Club Previous season Championship Season
1 (2nd level) DWS 1962/1963 1963/1964
13 Ajax 1964/1965 1965/1966
11 AZ 2007/2008 2008/2009
10 DOS 1956/1957 1957/1958
9 Sparta 1957/1958 1958/1959
6 Ajax 1958/1959 1959/1960
4 Feyenoord 1997/1998 1998/1999
4 Ajax 1996/1997 1997/1998
4 PSV 1973/1974 1974/1975
4 Feyenoord 1963/1964 1964/1965
4 Ajax 1955/1956 1956/1957
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Chelsea 4 - Liverpool 4 goals and highlights
Chelsea: Drogba (51), Alex (57), Lampard (76, 89)
Liverpool: Fabio Aurelio (19), Xabi Alonso (28 penalty), Leiva (81), Kuyt (82)
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Liverpool: Fabio Aurelio (19), Xabi Alonso (28 penalty), Leiva (81), Kuyt (82)
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Friday, April 10, 2009
Lazio vs AS Roma preview: the match of the week
On Saturday, Francesco Totti can enter the goalscoring elite of Italy’s Serie A when AS Roma face city rivals Lazio in the Stadio Olimpico. Totti has scored 173 goals in the Serie A and he needs one goal to enter the top 10 of all-time Serie A goalscorers. He scored his first league goal on 4 September 1994 in a home match against Foggia (1-1).
Totti has scored 13 of his 173 goals against Parma, his favourite opponents. According to Infostrada Sports, Lazio have conceded six goals from the Roma captain.
Most goals in Serie A
Goals Name Nation Played
274 Silvio Piola ITA 537
225 Gunnar Nordahl SWE 291
216 Giuseppe Meazza ITA 367
216 José Altafini BRA/ITA 459
205 Roberto Baggio ITA 452
190 Kurt Hamrin SWE 400
188 Giuseppe Signori ITA 344
184 Gabriel Batistuta ARG 318
178 Giampiero Boniperti ITA 444
174 Amedeo Amadei ITA 423
173 Francesco Totti ITA 411
Totti has scored 13 of his 173 goals against Parma, his favourite opponents. According to Infostrada Sports, Lazio have conceded six goals from the Roma captain.
Most goals in Serie A
Goals Name Nation Played
274 Silvio Piola ITA 537
225 Gunnar Nordahl SWE 291
216 Giuseppe Meazza ITA 367
216 José Altafini BRA/ITA 459
205 Roberto Baggio ITA 452
190 Kurt Hamrin SWE 400
188 Giuseppe Signori ITA 344
184 Gabriel Batistuta ARG 318
178 Giampiero Boniperti ITA 444
174 Amedeo Amadei ITA 423
173 Francesco Totti ITA 411
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Federico Macheda profile: teenager able to score
On Sunday, 17-year-old Federico Macheda became the youngest goalscorer in this season's Premier League when he scored the winning goal for Manchester United against Aston Villa (3-2).
The previous youngest goalscorer this season was Macheda's teammate Danny Welbeck at 17 years and 355 days.
On 10 April 2005, Everton’s James Vaughan became the youngest goalscorer in the Premier League era at 16 years and 270 days.
Youngest goalscorers Premier League 2008/2009
Age Player Nation Date Match
17-226 Federico Macheda ITA 05 Apr 2009 Manchester United - Aston Villa 3-2
17-355 Danny Welbeck ENG 15 Nov 2008 Manchester United - Stoke City 5-0
18-122 Rafael BRA 08 Nov 2008 Arsenal - Manchester United 2-1
18-330 Dan Gosling ENG 28 Dec 2008 Everton - Sunderland 3-0
18-358 Daniel Sturridge ENG 24 Aug 2008 Manchester City - West Ham United 3-0
19-129 Junior Stanislas ENG 04 Apr 2009 West Ham United - Sunderland 2-0
19-216 Theo Walcott ENG 18 Oct 2008 Arsenal - Everton 3-1
19-268 Ched Evans WAL 21 Sep 2008 Manchester City - Portsmouth 6-0
19-336 David N'Gog FRA 03 Mar 2009 Liverpool - Sunderland 2-0
20-004 Andy Carroll ENG 10 Jan 2009 Newcastle United - West Ham United 2-2
The previous youngest goalscorer this season was Macheda's teammate Danny Welbeck at 17 years and 355 days.
On 10 April 2005, Everton’s James Vaughan became the youngest goalscorer in the Premier League era at 16 years and 270 days.
Youngest goalscorers Premier League 2008/2009
Age Player Nation Date Match
17-226 Federico Macheda ITA 05 Apr 2009 Manchester United - Aston Villa 3-2
17-355 Danny Welbeck ENG 15 Nov 2008 Manchester United - Stoke City 5-0
18-122 Rafael BRA 08 Nov 2008 Arsenal - Manchester United 2-1
18-330 Dan Gosling ENG 28 Dec 2008 Everton - Sunderland 3-0
18-358 Daniel Sturridge ENG 24 Aug 2008 Manchester City - West Ham United 3-0
19-129 Junior Stanislas ENG 04 Apr 2009 West Ham United - Sunderland 2-0
19-216 Theo Walcott ENG 18 Oct 2008 Arsenal - Everton 3-1
19-268 Ched Evans WAL 21 Sep 2008 Manchester City - Portsmouth 6-0
19-336 David N'Gog FRA 03 Mar 2009 Liverpool - Sunderland 2-0
20-004 Andy Carroll ENG 10 Jan 2009 Newcastle United - West Ham United 2-2
Friday, April 3, 2009
VfL Wolfsburg vs Bayern München preview: the match of the week
On Saturday, a clash between VfL Wolfsburg and Bayern München, the two teams ranked second in the German Bundesliga, will take place in the Volkswagen Arena in Wolfsburg. It is also a match-up of the best home and away teams in the Bundesliga this season.
Hosts Wolfsburg hold the best home record in the Bundesliga this season, having won 11 of their 12 home matches. Borussia Dortmund (4 wins, 9 draws) is the only other team still undefeated at home this season.
Opponents Bayern München have won six and lost only three of their 13 away matches in 2008/2009, which makes them the strongest Bundesliga side in away matches in 2008/2009.
Best teams in home matches - Bundesliga 2008/2009
Rank Club P W D L Pts Goals O-Rank
1 VfL Wolfsburg 12 11 1 0 34 32-10 2
2 Hertha BSC 13 10 2 1 32 24-10 1
3 Hamburger SV 12 10 1 1 31 20-9 4
4 Hoffenheim 13 8 4 1 28 26-12 5
5 VfB Stuttgart 13 8 3 2 27 25-13 6
6 Bayern München 12 8 2 2 26 34-20 2
7 Werder Bremen 13 7 4 2 25 33-16 10
8 Schalke 04 12 7 3 2 24 16-8 8
9 Hannover 96 13 6 6 1 24 26-18 13
Best teams in away matches - Bundesliga 2008/2009
Rank Club P W D L Pts Goals O-Rank
1 Bayern München 13 6 4 3 22 19-11 2
2 Bayer Leverkusen 12 6 2 4 20 23-15 7
3 1. FC Köln 13 6 1 6 19 18-18 11
4 Hertha BSC 12 5 2 5 17 15-19 1
5 Hamburger SV 13 5 2 6 17 19-27 4
6 Hoffenheim 12 4 4 4 16 26-22 5
7 Borussia Dortmund 12 4 4 4 16 18-21 9
8 VfB Stuttgart 12 4 3 5 15 19-23 6
9 VfL Wolfsburg 13 3 5 5 14 21-21 2
Note: O-Rank represents overall ranking in Bundesliga 2008/2009.
Hosts Wolfsburg hold the best home record in the Bundesliga this season, having won 11 of their 12 home matches. Borussia Dortmund (4 wins, 9 draws) is the only other team still undefeated at home this season.
Opponents Bayern München have won six and lost only three of their 13 away matches in 2008/2009, which makes them the strongest Bundesliga side in away matches in 2008/2009.
Best teams in home matches - Bundesliga 2008/2009
Rank Club P W D L Pts Goals O-Rank
1 VfL Wolfsburg 12 11 1 0 34 32-10 2
2 Hertha BSC 13 10 2 1 32 24-10 1
3 Hamburger SV 12 10 1 1 31 20-9 4
4 Hoffenheim 13 8 4 1 28 26-12 5
5 VfB Stuttgart 13 8 3 2 27 25-13 6
6 Bayern München 12 8 2 2 26 34-20 2
7 Werder Bremen 13 7 4 2 25 33-16 10
8 Schalke 04 12 7 3 2 24 16-8 8
9 Hannover 96 13 6 6 1 24 26-18 13
Best teams in away matches - Bundesliga 2008/2009
Rank Club P W D L Pts Goals O-Rank
1 Bayern München 13 6 4 3 22 19-11 2
2 Bayer Leverkusen 12 6 2 4 20 23-15 7
3 1. FC Köln 13 6 1 6 19 18-18 11
4 Hertha BSC 12 5 2 5 17 15-19 1
5 Hamburger SV 13 5 2 6 17 19-27 4
6 Hoffenheim 12 4 4 4 16 26-22 5
7 Borussia Dortmund 12 4 4 4 16 18-21 9
8 VfB Stuttgart 12 4 3 5 15 19-23 6
9 VfL Wolfsburg 13 3 5 5 14 21-21 2
Note: O-Rank represents overall ranking in Bundesliga 2008/2009.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Firearm in the stadium. The referee goes with it!
If you play in the Romanian Liga IV (8 groups, 48 teams) a Regional derby defending Conpet from Ştefan cel Mare colours against Unirea Dragalina and the referee decides that your goal- that could define a 2-2 draw - is invalidated…
Please, shut up! Or you can have problems with the referee. Like the Far West…
Please, shut up! Or you can have problems with the referee. Like the Far West…
Friday, March 20, 2009
UEFA Champions League Schedule: quarterfinals and semifinals confirmed
Quarterfinals
7th April
Villarreal v Arsenal
Manchester United v Porto
8th April
Liverpool v Chelsea
Barcelona v Bayern Munich
14th April
Bayern Munich v Barcelona
Chelsea v Liverpool
15th April
Arsenal v Villarreal
Porto v Manchester United
Semifinals: 28-29 April and 5-6 May
Manchester United or Porto v Villarreal or Arsenal
Barcelona or Bayern Munich v Liverpool or Chelsea
7th April
Villarreal v Arsenal
Manchester United v Porto
8th April
Liverpool v Chelsea
Barcelona v Bayern Munich
14th April
Bayern Munich v Barcelona
Chelsea v Liverpool
15th April
Arsenal v Villarreal
Porto v Manchester United
Semifinals: 28-29 April and 5-6 May
Manchester United or Porto v Villarreal or Arsenal
Barcelona or Bayern Munich v Liverpool or Chelsea
UEFA Cup schedule: quarterfinals and semifinals confirmed
Quarterfinals: April 9th and 16th
Hamburgo (GER) - Manchester City (ING)
Paris Saint Germain (FRA) - Dinamo Kiev (UKR)
Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR) - Olympique Marseille (FRA)
Werder Bremen (GER) - Udinese (ITA)
Semifinals: April 30th and May 7th
Werder Bremen or Udinese vs Hamburgo or Manchester City
París Saint Germain or Dinamo Kiev vs Ganador Shakhtar-Olympique Marseille
Final
Sukru Saracoglu Stadium 20.45
Hamburgo (GER) - Manchester City (ING)
Paris Saint Germain (FRA) - Dinamo Kiev (UKR)
Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR) - Olympique Marseille (FRA)
Werder Bremen (GER) - Udinese (ITA)
Semifinals: April 30th and May 7th
Werder Bremen or Udinese vs Hamburgo or Manchester City
París Saint Germain or Dinamo Kiev vs Ganador Shakhtar-Olympique Marseille
Final
Sukru Saracoglu Stadium 20.45
Liverpool – Aston Villa preview: the match of the week
On Sunday, Aston Villa travel to Liverpool to take on the Reds. Manager Martin O’Neill has not won a Premier League match in March as Villa’s manager. His side has drawn five and lost six of 11 PL matches in the month of March since he took over at the club.
According to Infostrada, his last victory as a PL manager in this month came nine years ago when he won with Leicester City 2-1 at home against Leeds United on 26 March 2000.
Martin O’Neill’s Premier League record with Aston Villa in March
Season Played Won Drawn Lost Goals for Goals against Points
2008-2009 3 0 1 2 3 6 1
2007-2008 5 0 2 3 2 9 2
2006-2007 3 0 2 1 1 2 2
Total 11 0 5 6 6 17 5
According to Infostrada, his last victory as a PL manager in this month came nine years ago when he won with Leicester City 2-1 at home against Leeds United on 26 March 2000.
Martin O’Neill’s Premier League record with Aston Villa in March
Season Played Won Drawn Lost Goals for Goals against Points
2008-2009 3 0 1 2 3 6 1
2007-2008 5 0 2 3 2 9 2
2006-2007 3 0 2 1 1 2 2
Total 11 0 5 6 6 17 5
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Arsenal: the FA King
On Tuesday, Arsenal reached the semifinals of the FA Cup for a record ninth time since the introduction of the Premier League in 1992/1993. Nasri and company go for the 10th FA Cup in the history.
Chelsea and Ronaldo's United are in the semifinals for the eighth time and other semifinalist Everton are in their second appearance in the last four since 1992/1993.
Clubs with most FA Cup semifinal appearances – since 1992/1993
# Club Years
9 Arsenal 1993, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2009
8 Manchester United 1994, 1995, 1996, 1999, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2009
8 Chelsea 1994, 1996, 1997, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2007, 2009
4 Tottenham Hotspur 1993, 1995, 1999, 2001
4 Newcastle United 1998, 1999, 2000, 2005
3 Sheffield United 1993, 1998, 2003
3 Liverpool 1996, 2001, 2006
3 Middlesbrough 1997, 2002, 2006
2 Aston Villa 1996, 2000
2 Watford 2003, 2007
2 Blackburn Rovers 2005, 2007
2 Everton 1995, 2009
Chelsea and Ronaldo's United are in the semifinals for the eighth time and other semifinalist Everton are in their second appearance in the last four since 1992/1993.
Clubs with most FA Cup semifinal appearances – since 1992/1993
# Club Years
9 Arsenal 1993, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2009
8 Manchester United 1994, 1995, 1996, 1999, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2009
8 Chelsea 1994, 1996, 1997, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2007, 2009
4 Tottenham Hotspur 1993, 1995, 1999, 2001
4 Newcastle United 1998, 1999, 2000, 2005
3 Sheffield United 1993, 1998, 2003
3 Liverpool 1996, 2001, 2006
3 Middlesbrough 1997, 2002, 2006
2 Aston Villa 1996, 2000
2 Watford 2003, 2007
2 Blackburn Rovers 2005, 2007
2 Everton 1995, 2009
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
European Super League: UEFA prepared to discuss it
UEFA is prepared to discuss plans from European teams to create a continental league to replace the Champions League and UEFA Cup, according the French media reports. It is believed that UEFA president Michel Platini is prepared to work with clubs in the European Club Association (ECA) to get plans for an elite three-tiered ‘Super League’ off the ground.
Platini told France Football: "Everybody knows my philosophy about European competitions...but the world is changing and we must be careful about that."
"If it was up to me, I would revert to European Cups as they were at the beginning, with just knockout rounds. But we must listen carefully to any suggestion. If (clubs) come and talk to us, we would listen to them and then decide."
According to SportBusiness it is believed the ECA - which represents 137 leading teams including Manchester United and Real Madrid – discussed the plan during a meeting last week in Nyon, Switzerland.
The proposed Super League would be made up of three divisions with 20 to 22 clubs in each tier, and promotion and relegation would occur between the divisions each season.
Platini told France Football: "Everybody knows my philosophy about European competitions...but the world is changing and we must be careful about that."
"If it was up to me, I would revert to European Cups as they were at the beginning, with just knockout rounds. But we must listen carefully to any suggestion. If (clubs) come and talk to us, we would listen to them and then decide."According to SportBusiness it is believed the ECA - which represents 137 leading teams including Manchester United and Real Madrid – discussed the plan during a meeting last week in Nyon, Switzerland.
The proposed Super League would be made up of three divisions with 20 to 22 clubs in each tier, and promotion and relegation would occur between the divisions each season.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
UEFA eager to help Liverpool
Michel Platini has promised Liverpool that UEFA are keen to avoid forcing the club to play the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final on the 20th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster.
The anniversary falls on April 15, which is one of the two dates set aside for the second legs of the quarter-finals, the other being the previous day.
UEFA president Platini has not guaranteed Liverpool will not be asked to play on April 15 but pledged that European's governing body would "do our utmost" to avoid the scenario. 
UEFA have issued a statement reacting to reports claiming they had rejected an appeal by Liverpool to avoid playing on the anniversary date.
According The Press Association, Platini said: "We are aware of the huge significance of the April 15 date for both Liverpool FC and their fans, and that is why we will do our utmost to make sure that the club does not have to play its UEFA Champions League second leg quarter-final match on that day.
"I have been in regular correspondence with Liverpool FC on this matter for some time now and fully sympathise with the club's feelings as to the importance of respecting the date of April 15 for those who lost their lives at Hillsborough.
"This being the 20th anniversary of that tragic disaster in 1989 makes it even more relevant and we will take this into account."
Ninety six people died when Liverpool supporters were crushed at the Leppings Lane end of Hillsborough on April 15, 1989, as they attended their team's FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest.
A cousin of Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard was among the dead, and the England midfielder has urged UEFA to be sympathetic to the club.
Gerrard said at the weekend: "We're still waiting to see whether UEFA will make us play on the day. That would be far from ideal given all the emotion that always surrounds the club on that day."
Friday, March 13, 2009
Giovani do Santos! Where are you going?
What’s up with this guy?
From Barcelona to Tottenham. Result: twelve matches, one goal. From Tottenham to Ipswich Town... What team will be the next one?
Are you happy Gio?
Giovani dos Santos Ramírez memories (only memories) … next.
From Barcelona to Tottenham. Result: twelve matches, one goal. From Tottenham to Ipswich Town... What team will be the next one?
Are you happy Gio?
Giovani dos Santos Ramírez memories (only memories) … next.
Wayne censured!: “I hate Liverpool”
Manchester United were forced last night to remove comments on their website in which Wayne Rooney, the United and former Everton forward, claimed that he “hates” Liverpool.
Rooney, who grew up supporting Everton, claimed that he would love nothing more than to prolong Liverpool’s 19-year wait for the league championship. “We’re in pole position in the title race and we know if we can beat Liverpool then that’ll more or less end their chances of winning the league,” Rooney said. “I’m very excited about the game because I grew up as an Everton fan hating Liverpool — and that hasn’t changed.”
Rooney, who grew up supporting Everton, claimed that he would love nothing more than to prolong Liverpool’s 19-year wait for the league championship. “We’re in pole position in the title race and we know if we can beat Liverpool then that’ll more or less end their chances of winning the league,” Rooney said. “I’m very excited about the game because I grew up as an Everton fan hating Liverpool — and that hasn’t changed.”
On Saturday, Liverpool travel to Old Trafford to take on Premiership table leaders Manchester United, having beaten the Red Devils earlier this season 2-1 at Anfield Road. Liverpool can join Arsenal as the only team that has completed three double victories over Man Utd in the Premiership era.
Winning home and away against Manchester United within Premier League season (since 1992/1993)
Season Club Home Away
2007/2008 Manchester City 1-0 1-2
2006/2007 West Ham United 1-0 0-1
2006/2007 Arsenal 2-1 0-1
2005/2006 Blackburn Rovers 4-3 1-2
2004/2005 Chelsea 1-0 1-3
2001/2002 Arsenal 3-1 0-1
2001/2002 Liverpool 3-1 0-1
2000/2001 Liverpool 2-0 0-1
1997/1998 Arsenal 3-2 0-1
1993/1994 Chelsea 1-0 0-1
2006/2007 West Ham United 1-0 0-1
2006/2007 Arsenal 2-1 0-1
2005/2006 Blackburn Rovers 4-3 1-2
2004/2005 Chelsea 1-0 1-3
2001/2002 Arsenal 3-1 0-1
2001/2002 Liverpool 3-1 0-1
2000/2001 Liverpool 2-0 0-1
1997/1998 Arsenal 3-2 0-1
1993/1994 Chelsea 1-0 0-1
More Info: Times Online
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Bayern Munich history has another page
On Tuesday, Bayern Munich beat Sporting Lisboa 7-1 after having won the first leg 5-0. The aggregate goal difference of 11 goals is the biggest margin in the knockout phase of the Champions League.
The previous record was held by Olympique Lyon when they knocked out Werder Bremen by an aggregate score of 10-2. Liverpool beat Real Madrid by an aggregate score of 5-0 and this is listed joint fourth on the all-time CL list, according to Infostrada.
Biggest aggregate score in CL knock-out phase
# Score First leg Second leg
11 12-1 Sporting CP - Bayern Munich (25 Feb 2009) 0-5
The previous record was held by Olympique Lyon when they knocked out Werder Bremen by an aggregate score of 10-2. Liverpool beat Real Madrid by an aggregate score of 5-0 and this is listed joint fourth on the all-time CL list, according to Infostrada.
Biggest aggregate score in CL knock-out phase
# Score First leg Second leg
11 12-1 Sporting CP - Bayern Munich (25 Feb 2009) 0-5
Bayern Munich - Sporting CP (10 Mar 2009) 7-1
8 10-2 Werder Bremen - Olympique Lyon (23 Feb 2005) 0-3
Olympique Lyon - Werder Bremen (08 Mar 2005) 7-2
6 6-0 Bayern Munich - 1.FC Kaiserslautern (03 Mar 1999) 2-0
1.FC Kaiserslautern - Bayern Munich (17 Mar 1999) 0-4
5 8-3 AS Roma - Manchester United (04 Apr 2007) 2-1
Manchester United - AS Roma (10 Apr 2007) 7-1
5 5-0 AC Milan - Internazionale (06 Apr 2005) 2-0
Internazionale - AC Milan (12 Apr 2005) 0-3
5 5-0 PSV - Olympique Lyon (21 Feb 2006) 0-1
Olympique Lyon - PSV (08 Mar 2006) 4-0
5 5-0 Real Madrid - Liverpool (25 Feb 2009) 0-1
Liverpool - Real Madrid (10 Mar 2009) 4-0
Monday, March 9, 2009
FC Barcelona vs Lyon preview
On Wednesday, 11 March, FC Barcelona host Olympique Lyon in the Champions League. Barça striker Thierry Henry is one goal short of equalling Alfredo Di Stéfano’s career total of 49 Champions Cup/Champions League goals.
Moreover Henry needs to score twice to reach 50 Champions Cup/Champions League goals. He can become the fourth player to reach this milestone.
Real Madrid’s Raúl holds the record with 64 goals in Champions Cup/Champions League competition.
Most goals in Champions Cup/Champions League
Goals Player Nation CL CL Qual. CC Matches
64 Raúl ESP 64 0 0 124
60 Ruud van Nistelrooy NED 56 4 0 80
56 Andri Shevchenko UKR 47 9 0 105
49 Alfredo di Stéfano ARG, ESP 0 0 49 58
48 Thierry Henry FRA 47 1 0 104
46 Eusébio POR 0 0 46 64
46 Filippo Inzaghi ITA 42 4 0 75
43 Alessandro Del Piero ITA 41 2 0 89
39 Fernando Morientes ESP 33 6 0 100
36 Ferenc Puskas HUN, ESP 0 0 36 41
35 Gerd Müller GER 0 0 35 35
Moreover Henry needs to score twice to reach 50 Champions Cup/Champions League goals. He can become the fourth player to reach this milestone.
Real Madrid’s Raúl holds the record with 64 goals in Champions Cup/Champions League competition.
Most goals in Champions Cup/Champions League
Goals Player Nation CL CL Qual. CC Matches
64 Raúl ESP 64 0 0 124
60 Ruud van Nistelrooy NED 56 4 0 80
56 Andri Shevchenko UKR 47 9 0 105
49 Alfredo di Stéfano ARG, ESP 0 0 49 58
48 Thierry Henry FRA 47 1 0 104
46 Eusébio POR 0 0 46 64
46 Filippo Inzaghi ITA 42 4 0 75
43 Alessandro Del Piero ITA 41 2 0 89
39 Fernando Morientes ESP 33 6 0 100
36 Ferenc Puskas HUN, ESP 0 0 36 41
35 Gerd Müller GER 0 0 35 35
Friday, March 6, 2009
Real Madrid – Atlético Madrid: the match of the week
On Saturday, Real Madrid aim to continue their 10 match winning streak in La Liga, when they host city rivals Atlético Madrid in the Madrid city derby.
The last time Real Madrid failed to win a league match was on 13 December when they lost 2-0 at FC Barcelona.
Only four longer winning streaks have ever been recorded in the Spanish top flight.
According to Infostrada, the last one came in the 2005/2006 season when FC Barcelona won 14 straight league matches.
Real Madrid holds the all-time record, winning 15 successive league matches in 1960/1961. Earlier this season, between November and February, FC Barcelona also recorded 10 successive wins in La Liga.
Atlético Madrid can’t defeat Real Madrid since 1999. In that occasion, Atlético won 3-1 in Santiago Bernabeu stadium. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, twice, and José Mari scored. Michel Salgado, Raúl, Guti and Iker Casillas were part of the loser team. Thanks to Migue who reminds us that this streak reach home and away matches.
However, Merengues are very far away for this historical record.
Most consecutive wins in La Liga
# Club Start date Match that ended streak
15 Real Madrid 27 Nov 1960 Real Oviedo - Real Madrid (19 Mar 1961) 0-0
14 FC Barcelona 22 Oct 2005 FC Barcelona - Atlético Madrid (05 Feb 2006) 1-3
11 Real Madrid 06 Jan 1963 Real Zaragoza CD - Real Madrid (24 Mar 1963) 1-0
11 FC Barcelona 25 Mar 1984 CR Murcia - FC Barcelona (12 Oct 1984) 1-1
10 Real Madrid 20 Dec 2008 Still running
10 CF Barcelona 01 Jan 1956 Sevilla CF - CF Barcelona (11 Mar 1956) 0-0
10 Atlético Madrid 20 Mar 1983 Athletic Bilbao - Atlético Madrid (01 Oct 1983) 2-2
10 FC Barcelona 29 Nov 2008 Real Betis - FC Barcelona (14 Feb 2009) 2-2
Last matches in Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
1999/00 Real Madrid - Atlético 1-3
2002/03 Real Madrid - Atlético 2-2
2003/04 Real Madrid - Atlético 2-0
2004/05 Real Madrid - Atlético 0-0
2005/06 Real Madrid - Atlético 2-1
2006/07 Real Madrid - Atlético 1-1
2007/08 Real Madrid - Atlético 2-1
The last time Real Madrid failed to win a league match was on 13 December when they lost 2-0 at FC Barcelona.
Only four longer winning streaks have ever been recorded in the Spanish top flight.
According to Infostrada, the last one came in the 2005/2006 season when FC Barcelona won 14 straight league matches.
Real Madrid holds the all-time record, winning 15 successive league matches in 1960/1961. Earlier this season, between November and February, FC Barcelona also recorded 10 successive wins in La Liga.
Atlético Madrid can’t defeat Real Madrid since 1999. In that occasion, Atlético won 3-1 in Santiago Bernabeu stadium. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, twice, and José Mari scored. Michel Salgado, Raúl, Guti and Iker Casillas were part of the loser team. Thanks to Migue who reminds us that this streak reach home and away matches.
However, Merengues are very far away for this historical record.
Most consecutive wins in La Liga
# Club Start date Match that ended streak
15 Real Madrid 27 Nov 1960 Real Oviedo - Real Madrid (19 Mar 1961) 0-0
14 FC Barcelona 22 Oct 2005 FC Barcelona - Atlético Madrid (05 Feb 2006) 1-3
11 Real Madrid 06 Jan 1963 Real Zaragoza CD - Real Madrid (24 Mar 1963) 1-0
11 FC Barcelona 25 Mar 1984 CR Murcia - FC Barcelona (12 Oct 1984) 1-1
10 Real Madrid 20 Dec 2008 Still running
10 CF Barcelona 01 Jan 1956 Sevilla CF - CF Barcelona (11 Mar 1956) 0-0
10 Atlético Madrid 20 Mar 1983 Athletic Bilbao - Atlético Madrid (01 Oct 1983) 2-2
10 FC Barcelona 29 Nov 2008 Real Betis - FC Barcelona (14 Feb 2009) 2-2
Last matches in Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
1999/00 Real Madrid - Atlético 1-3
2002/03 Real Madrid - Atlético 2-2
2003/04 Real Madrid - Atlético 2-0
2004/05 Real Madrid - Atlético 0-0
2005/06 Real Madrid - Atlético 2-1
2006/07 Real Madrid - Atlético 1-1
2007/08 Real Madrid - Atlético 2-1
Sunday, March 1, 2009
The Russian Premier League Comes to North America on Setanta Sports
In March, the Russian Premier League will be available for the first time to Setanta Sports viewers in the United States and Canada. Setanta will offer 60 league fixtures live and delayed. The opening matches of the 2009-10 season will commence the weekend of March 13th.
Despite a lack of previous exposure to the North American audience, the Russian Premier League has become one of the most prominent leagues under the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). With Zenit St. Petersburg and CSKA Moscow winning the UEFA Cup in 2005 and 2008, Russian clubs are amongst the most competitive and skilled in Europe. Additionally, Russian-born players Andrei Arshavin and Roman Pavlyuchenko have joined Barclays Premier League teams Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
The Russian Premier League joins Setanta's elite soccer programming roster, which includes the Barclays Premier League, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Cup, 2010 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, Scottish Premier League, Le Championnat and other tournaments and highlights shows. Available in more places than ever, Setanta is available on RCN, Verizon FiOS TV, Dish Network, Dish Latino, Dish International, AT&T U-verse, WorldDirect, DIRECTV, WorldTV and in various locations on Cox and Comcast.
"We are very proud to include the Russian Premier League to our sports line-up," commented Shane O'Rourke, President of North American and Australian Operations. "With a list of leading teams, top players and a season that runs from March to November, we can provide our viewers with world-class programming all throughout the year.
To learn how to subscribe to Setanta, visit www.setanta.com/us/How-To-Subscribe
Setanta Sports operates the only dedicated international sports channel in America. In 2008, the 24-hour TV network aired more than 1,000 live events, including European and international soccer, such as the Barclays Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, World Cup Qualifiers and the Carling Cup plus world-class rugby and other sports programming designed to meet the growing demands of international sports fans. Setanta Sports is owned by Dublin-based Setanta Sports Holdings, a leading international pay television broadcaster in the UK, providing top sports leagues and events to more than 100 million digital television homes globally and to commercial venues in six countries. www.setanta.com/us
Website: http://www.setanta.com/us
Despite a lack of previous exposure to the North American audience, the Russian Premier League has become one of the most prominent leagues under the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). With Zenit St. Petersburg and CSKA Moscow winning the UEFA Cup in 2005 and 2008, Russian clubs are amongst the most competitive and skilled in Europe. Additionally, Russian-born players Andrei Arshavin and Roman Pavlyuchenko have joined Barclays Premier League teams Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
The Russian Premier League joins Setanta's elite soccer programming roster, which includes the Barclays Premier League, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Cup, 2010 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, Scottish Premier League, Le Championnat and other tournaments and highlights shows. Available in more places than ever, Setanta is available on RCN, Verizon FiOS TV, Dish Network, Dish Latino, Dish International, AT&T U-verse, WorldDirect, DIRECTV, WorldTV and in various locations on Cox and Comcast.
"We are very proud to include the Russian Premier League to our sports line-up," commented Shane O'Rourke, President of North American and Australian Operations. "With a list of leading teams, top players and a season that runs from March to November, we can provide our viewers with world-class programming all throughout the year.
To learn how to subscribe to Setanta, visit www.setanta.com/us/How-To-Subscribe
Setanta Sports operates the only dedicated international sports channel in America. In 2008, the 24-hour TV network aired more than 1,000 live events, including European and international soccer, such as the Barclays Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, World Cup Qualifiers and the Carling Cup plus world-class rugby and other sports programming designed to meet the growing demands of international sports fans. Setanta Sports is owned by Dublin-based Setanta Sports Holdings, a leading international pay television broadcaster in the UK, providing top sports leagues and events to more than 100 million digital television homes globally and to commercial venues in six countries. www.setanta.com/us
Website: http://www.setanta.com/us
Friday, February 27, 2009
Carling Cup Final preview: Manchester United – Tottenham Hotspur
Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur both play in their seventh League Cup final when they meet in the 2009 Carling Cup Final on Sunday, 1 March. Tottenham Hotspur are going for their fifth League Cup win in seven final appearances and Manchester United for their third.
After their win in 2008, Spurs could become the third team to win the League Cup in back-to-back years.
According to Infostrada Sports, Nottingham Forest and Liverpool are the only teams to have previously won two League Cup finals in a row.
Most Carling Cup Final appearances
# Club Years
10 Liverpool 1978, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1987, 1995, 2001, 2003, 2005
7 Aston Villa 1961, 1963, 1971, 1975, 1977, 1994, 1996
7 Manchester United 1983, 1991, 1992, 1994, 2003, 2006, 2009
7 Tottenham Hotspur 1971, 1973, 1982, 1999, 2002, 2008, 2009
6 Nottingham Forest 1978, 1979, 1980, 1989, 1990, 1992
6 Arsenal 1968, 1969, 1987, 1988, 1993, 2007
5 Leicester City 1964, 1965, 1997, 1999, 2000
5 Chelsea 1965, 1972, 1998, 2005, 2007
4 Norwich City 1962, 1973, 1975, 1985
3 West Bromwich Albion 1966, 1967, 1970
3 Manchester City 1970, 1974, 1976
3 Middlesbrough 1997, 1998, 2004
Most Carling Cup Final wins # Club Years
7 Liverpool 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1995, 2001, 2003
5 Aston Villa 1961, 1975, 1977, 1994, 1996
4 Nottingham Forest 1978, 1979, 1989, 1990
4 Chelsea 1965, 1998, 2005, 2007
4 Tottenham Hotspur 1971, 1973, 1999, 2008
3 Leicester City 1964, 1997, 2000
2 Manchester City 1970, 1976
2 Wolverhampton Wanderers 1974, 1980
2 Norwich City 1962, 1985
2 Arsenal 1987, 1993
2 Manchester United 1992, 2006
Feel free to add live stream links...
After their win in 2008, Spurs could become the third team to win the League Cup in back-to-back years.
According to Infostrada Sports, Nottingham Forest and Liverpool are the only teams to have previously won two League Cup finals in a row.
Most Carling Cup Final appearances
# Club Years
10 Liverpool 1978, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1987, 1995, 2001, 2003, 2005
7 Aston Villa 1961, 1963, 1971, 1975, 1977, 1994, 1996
7 Manchester United 1983, 1991, 1992, 1994, 2003, 2006, 2009
7 Tottenham Hotspur 1971, 1973, 1982, 1999, 2002, 2008, 2009
6 Nottingham Forest 1978, 1979, 1980, 1989, 1990, 1992
6 Arsenal 1968, 1969, 1987, 1988, 1993, 2007
5 Leicester City 1964, 1965, 1997, 1999, 2000
5 Chelsea 1965, 1972, 1998, 2005, 2007
4 Norwich City 1962, 1973, 1975, 1985
3 West Bromwich Albion 1966, 1967, 1970
3 Manchester City 1970, 1974, 1976
3 Middlesbrough 1997, 1998, 2004
Most Carling Cup Final wins # Club Years
7 Liverpool 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1995, 2001, 2003
5 Aston Villa 1961, 1975, 1977, 1994, 1996
4 Nottingham Forest 1978, 1979, 1989, 1990
4 Chelsea 1965, 1998, 2005, 2007
4 Tottenham Hotspur 1971, 1973, 1999, 2008
3 Leicester City 1964, 1997, 2000
2 Manchester City 1970, 1976
2 Wolverhampton Wanderers 1974, 1980
2 Norwich City 1962, 1985
2 Arsenal 1987, 1993
2 Manchester United 1992, 2006
Feel free to add live stream links...
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Is any team able to defeat Manchester United?
Manchester United drew 0-0 at Internazionale on Tuesday, to increase their unbeaten Champions League run to 20 matches and break the record they shared with Ajax and Bayern München.
The last team to beat Manchester United in the Champions League was AC Milan in the 2006/2007 semifinal second leg.
Longest undefeated streaks in Champions League
# Club Start date Won Drawn Match that ended streak
20 Manchester United 19 Sep 2007 11 9 Still running
19 Ajax 14 Sep 1994 14 5 Ajax – Panathinaikos (03 Apr 1996) 0-1
19 Bayern München 14 Mar 2001 13 6 Real Madrid - Bayern München (10 Apr 2002) 2-0
16 Manchester United 23 Oct 2001 10 6 Maccabi Haifa - Manchester United (29 Oct 2002) 3-0
16 Manchester United 04 Mar 1998 7 9 Olympique Marseille - Manchester United (19 Oct 1999) 1-0
15 FC Barcelona 14 Sep 2005 10 5 Chelsea - FC Barcelona (18 Oct 2006) 1-0
14 FC Barcelona 01 May 2002 11 3 FC Barcelona - Juventus (22 Apr 2003) 1-2
14 FC Barcelona 25 Nov 1998 10 4 Chelsea - FC Barcelona (05 Apr 2000) 3-1
14 Olympique Lyon 08 Dec 2004 10 4 AC Milan - Olympique Lyon (04 Apr 2006) 3-1
14 Liverpool 08 Dec 2004 8 6 Benfica - Liverpool (21 Feb 2006) 1-0
The last team to beat Manchester United in the Champions League was AC Milan in the 2006/2007 semifinal second leg.
Longest undefeated streaks in Champions League
# Club Start date Won Drawn Match that ended streak
20 Manchester United 19 Sep 2007 11 9 Still running
19 Ajax 14 Sep 1994 14 5 Ajax – Panathinaikos (03 Apr 1996) 0-1
19 Bayern München 14 Mar 2001 13 6 Real Madrid - Bayern München (10 Apr 2002) 2-0
16 Manchester United 23 Oct 2001 10 6 Maccabi Haifa - Manchester United (29 Oct 2002) 3-0
16 Manchester United 04 Mar 1998 7 9 Olympique Marseille - Manchester United (19 Oct 1999) 1-0
15 FC Barcelona 14 Sep 2005 10 5 Chelsea - FC Barcelona (18 Oct 2006) 1-0
14 FC Barcelona 01 May 2002 11 3 FC Barcelona - Juventus (22 Apr 2003) 1-2
14 FC Barcelona 25 Nov 1998 10 4 Chelsea - FC Barcelona (05 Apr 2000) 3-1
14 Olympique Lyon 08 Dec 2004 10 4 AC Milan - Olympique Lyon (04 Apr 2006) 3-1
14 Liverpool 08 Dec 2004 8 6 Benfica - Liverpool (21 Feb 2006) 1-0
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Lyon – Barcelona: “It’s an even tie”
Far from agreeing with those who say Barça are favourites in the last 16 of the Champions League, Leo Messi believes that at this stage of the competition “anyone can beat anyone else” and so “it’s going to be a tough game”.
Just a fortnight ago Leo Messi was in France playing for Argentina in a friendly against France at Marseille. But this Tuesday the game at Stade de Gerlande will be competitive as Barça are back in the last 16 of the Champions League.
Leo Messi knows that Lyon think Barça are favourites but he doesn’t agree. “It’s an even tie,” he said. “At this stage of the competition anyone can beat anyone else and it’ll be a tough game.” The only advantage he sees is having the second leg at home.
After the weekend’s defeat to Espanyol, Leo Messi sees the Lyon match as a chance for the team to get back on a winning track. “It’s a great opportunity,” he noted.
Even though he was there when Barça won the Champions League in Paris, the Argentine didn’t play in the game as he’d only just come back from serious injury. So he’s particularly anxious to win the competition again. “I felt part of that win but not much,” he said. “That’s why I’d like to win it again and play in all the games.”
Messi is key in Josep Guardiola’s side while Lyon have Benzema. “He’s a great player and really important for them,” said the Argentine. “He really makes a difference.”
He also spoke about the threat posed by Juninho from free-kicks. “He’s one of the best free-kick takers around,” he said, “so we have to be careful not to give them away around the box.”
Source: FC Barcelona Press
Just a fortnight ago Leo Messi was in France playing for Argentina in a friendly against France at Marseille. But this Tuesday the game at Stade de Gerlande will be competitive as Barça are back in the last 16 of the Champions League.Leo Messi knows that Lyon think Barça are favourites but he doesn’t agree. “It’s an even tie,” he said. “At this stage of the competition anyone can beat anyone else and it’ll be a tough game.” The only advantage he sees is having the second leg at home.
After the weekend’s defeat to Espanyol, Leo Messi sees the Lyon match as a chance for the team to get back on a winning track. “It’s a great opportunity,” he noted.
Even though he was there when Barça won the Champions League in Paris, the Argentine didn’t play in the game as he’d only just come back from serious injury. So he’s particularly anxious to win the competition again. “I felt part of that win but not much,” he said. “That’s why I’d like to win it again and play in all the games.”
Messi is key in Josep Guardiola’s side while Lyon have Benzema. “He’s a great player and really important for them,” said the Argentine. “He really makes a difference.”
He also spoke about the threat posed by Juninho from free-kicks. “He’s one of the best free-kick takers around,” he said, “so we have to be careful not to give them away around the box.”
Source: FC Barcelona Press
Inter Milan - Manchester United: Berbatov´s Euro Dream
Dimitar Berbatov is confident of fulfilling his dream of winning the Champions League, despite United being up against one of the best teams in the competition.
The Reds face Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan in their last 16 tie, the first leg of which takes place at the San Siro on Tuesday night.
Like United, Inter are currently riding high in their domestic league and remain on course for a fourth successive Serie A title.
Berbatov is relishing the chance to pit his wits against the Italian champions as he aims to move a step closer to realising his European dream.
"I came here to win the Champions League," he told reporters at the pre-match press conference.
"Manchester United are capable of doing that again. We have the team and the players.
"We are facing a very good team on Tuesday. But we have good players as well. It will be a great game to watch and hopefully we can take a good result back to Old Trafford for the second leg."
Source: Man Utd Press
The Reds face Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan in their last 16 tie, the first leg of which takes place at the San Siro on Tuesday night.
Like United, Inter are currently riding high in their domestic league and remain on course for a fourth successive Serie A title.
Berbatov is relishing the chance to pit his wits against the Italian champions as he aims to move a step closer to realising his European dream.
"I came here to win the Champions League," he told reporters at the pre-match press conference.
"Manchester United are capable of doing that again. We have the team and the players.
"We are facing a very good team on Tuesday. But we have good players as well. It will be a great game to watch and hopefully we can take a good result back to Old Trafford for the second leg."
Source: Man Utd Press
Arsenal - AS Roma: “I must improve on my solid start”
Samir Nasri is determined to improve on the impressive start he has made to his Arsenal career.
The Frenchman announced his Emirates Stadium arrival in perfect fashion, scoring the only goal on his debut against West Brom on the opening day of the season.
Nasri has since added Premier League goals against Everton and Hull either side of a superb match-winning brace against Manchester United in November.
Despite his solid start, the 21-year-old is not “completely happy” just yet.
“I’m content with my form,” Nasri told the Official Matchday Programme. “But I know I can do better as well. Of course I am never completely happy - you have to keep working, progressing, continuing to make improvements.
“For a professional that is very important.”
“I had to get into the rhythm of the Premier League but I think I have managed to acclimatise having strived to do so. I feel fine now and I’ve played in all the games recently.”
The Frenchman announced his Emirates Stadium arrival in perfect fashion, scoring the only goal on his debut against West Brom on the opening day of the season.
Nasri has since added Premier League goals against Everton and Hull either side of a superb match-winning brace against Manchester United in November.
Despite his solid start, the 21-year-old is not “completely happy” just yet.
“I’m content with my form,” Nasri told the Official Matchday Programme. “But I know I can do better as well. Of course I am never completely happy - you have to keep working, progressing, continuing to make improvements.
“For a professional that is very important.”
“I had to get into the rhythm of the Premier League but I think I have managed to acclimatise having strived to do so. I feel fine now and I’ve played in all the games recently.”
Source: Arsenal Press
Atletico Madrid - FC Porto: “It is going to be a tough match, but even”
One of the Portuguese players on Atlético de Madrid, Nuno Maniche, attended to the Spanish and Portuguese press alongside his manager, Abel Resino. The midfielder will experience a special encounter, as he played at Porto for three seasons.
“It’s going to be a special match because I spent three very nice years there in which I won everything that a football player can win. It’s a stage of my life that I’m never going to forget. Now I’m at Atlético de Madrid and I’m professional, so I belong to these colours. Obviously I’m going to do everything I can to beat Porto,” said the international footballer.
Maniche revealed some of the secrets of the Portuguese team. “They’re a great team and have very good individuals. I’m sure that it’s going to be a tough match, but even,” he argued.
“Porto is a side that is used to a competition such as Champions League. The game on Tuesday is going to be very important for both teams. We both have chances of winning and we’re going to use our weapons,” he emphasized.
When asked whether there have been many changes at Porto since he left the Portuguese squad, Maniche assured that “there are still three or four players from the time I was there, but the foundation of the team is still the same. If I score, I won’t celebrate it. We’re two teams with lots of desire in this competition and with lots of motivation."
Nuno Maniche didn’t want to miss out on the chance to send a message of support to the family of the young ‘Alevín’ (one of the youth system teams) players who had an accident on 21 February in Las Rozas and said that “we’re very sad about that piece of news. I want to send the family a hug and we’re hoping for a miracle. We want to beat Oporto to dedicate a victory to him.”
Source: Atlético Madrid Press
“It’s going to be a special match because I spent three very nice years there in which I won everything that a football player can win. It’s a stage of my life that I’m never going to forget. Now I’m at Atlético de Madrid and I’m professional, so I belong to these colours. Obviously I’m going to do everything I can to beat Porto,” said the international footballer.
Maniche revealed some of the secrets of the Portuguese team. “They’re a great team and have very good individuals. I’m sure that it’s going to be a tough match, but even,” he argued.
“Porto is a side that is used to a competition such as Champions League. The game on Tuesday is going to be very important for both teams. We both have chances of winning and we’re going to use our weapons,” he emphasized.
When asked whether there have been many changes at Porto since he left the Portuguese squad, Maniche assured that “there are still three or four players from the time I was there, but the foundation of the team is still the same. If I score, I won’t celebrate it. We’re two teams with lots of desire in this competition and with lots of motivation."
Nuno Maniche didn’t want to miss out on the chance to send a message of support to the family of the young ‘Alevín’ (one of the youth system teams) players who had an accident on 21 February in Las Rozas and said that “we’re very sad about that piece of news. I want to send the family a hug and we’re hoping for a miracle. We want to beat Oporto to dedicate a victory to him.”
Source: Atlético Madrid Press
Friday, February 20, 2009
Schalke 04 and Borussia Dortmund go for Manchester United
Today, Schalke 04 host Borussia Dortmund in the 74th league edition of the highly anticipated Revierderby. This marks the showcase of arguably the most football crazy region in all of Europe, since both clubs rank among the top six in Europe when it comes to average attendance per league home match.
Borussia Dortmund draw 72,400 spectators to each home match and on a European level rank second only to England’s Manchester United, according to Infostrada Sports.
Schalke 04, averaging well over 61,000 spectators each home match, are ranked sixth in Europe.
Highest average attendance per 2008/2009 domestic league home match – European clubs
Avg Team Stadium Competition Spectators Matches
75,280 Manchester United Old Trafford Premier League (ENG) 828,076 11
72,400 Borussia Dortmund Signal Iduna Park Bundesliga (GER) 796,404 11
71,958 Real Madrid Bernabéu Liga BBVA (ESP) 863,500 12
69,000 Bayern München Allianz-Arena Bundesliga (GER) 621,000 9
66,384 FC Barcelona Camp Nou Liga BBVA (ESP) 796,604 12
61,496 Schalke 04 Veltins-Arena Bundesliga (GER) 553,465 9
60,010 Arsenal Emirates Stadium Premier League (ENG) 720,115 12
58,150 AC Milan San Siro Serie A TIM (ITA) 697,794 12
57,319 Celtic Celtic Park Premier League (SCO) 745,151 13
54,858 Hamburger SV HSH Nordbank Arena Bundesliga (GER) 548,584 10
Borussia Dortmund draw 72,400 spectators to each home match and on a European level rank second only to England’s Manchester United, according to Infostrada Sports.
Schalke 04, averaging well over 61,000 spectators each home match, are ranked sixth in Europe.
Highest average attendance per 2008/2009 domestic league home match – European clubs
Avg Team Stadium Competition Spectators Matches
75,280 Manchester United Old Trafford Premier League (ENG) 828,076 11
72,400 Borussia Dortmund Signal Iduna Park Bundesliga (GER) 796,404 11
71,958 Real Madrid Bernabéu Liga BBVA (ESP) 863,500 12
69,000 Bayern München Allianz-Arena Bundesliga (GER) 621,000 9
66,384 FC Barcelona Camp Nou Liga BBVA (ESP) 796,604 12
61,496 Schalke 04 Veltins-Arena Bundesliga (GER) 553,465 9
60,010 Arsenal Emirates Stadium Premier League (ENG) 720,115 12
58,150 AC Milan San Siro Serie A TIM (ITA) 697,794 12
57,319 Celtic Celtic Park Premier League (SCO) 745,151 13
54,858 Hamburger SV HSH Nordbank Arena Bundesliga (GER) 548,584 10
Raúl, the recordman
Raúl scored his 308th and 309th Real Madrid goal in all competitions on Sunday, 15 February, opening the scoring and netting the fourth goal in Real’s 4-0 win at Sporting Gijón. He therefore overtakes Alfredo di Stéfano to become Real Madrid’s all-time top scorer in all competitions.
Raúl’s second goal equalled Alfredo di Stéfano’s Real Madrid goalscoring record in La Liga.
All-time top scorer Real Madrid – all competitions
# Name Nation Era
309 Raúl ESP 1994 – …
307 Alfredo di Stéfano ARG/ESP 1953 – 1964
290 Carlos Santillana ESP 1971 – 1988
243 Ferenc Puskás HUN/ESP 1958 – 1966
208 Hugo Sánchez MEX 1985 – 1992
181 Francisco Gento ESP 1953 – 1971
172 Pirri ESP 1964 – 1980
171 Emilio Butragueño ESP 1984 – 1995
155 Amancio ESP 1963 – 1976
130 Míchel ESP 1984 – 1996
127 Fernando Hierro ESP 1989 – 2003
124 Pahiño ESP 1948 – 1953
121 Juanito ESP 1978 – 1987
104 Luis Molowny ESP 1946 – 1957
103 Ronaldo BRA 2002 – 2007
101 Iván Zamorano CHI 1992 – 1996
100 Fernando Morientes ESP 1997 – 2003 , 2004 – 2005
All-time top scorer Real Madrid – La Liga
# Name Nation Era
216 Raúl ESP 1994 – …
216 Alfredo di Stéfano ARG/ESP 1953 – 1964
186 Carlos Santillana ESP 1971 – 1988
164 Hugo Sánchez MEX 1985 – 1992
156 Ferenc Puskás HUN/ESP 1958 – 1966
126 Francisco Gento ESP 1953 – 1971
123 Pirri ESP 1964 – 1980
123 Emilio Butragueño ESP 1984 – 1995
119 Amancio ESP 1963 – 1976
108 Pahiño ESP 1948 – 1953
102 Fernando Hierro ESP 1989 – 2003
Raúl’s goals for Real Madrid per competition
# Competition
216 La Liga
64 Champions Cup/Champions League
18 Copa del Rey
7 Spanish Super Cup
3 Intercontinental Cup/Club World Cup
1 European Super Cup
309 Total
Raúl’s second goal equalled Alfredo di Stéfano’s Real Madrid goalscoring record in La Liga.
All-time top scorer Real Madrid – all competitions
# Name Nation Era
309 Raúl ESP 1994 – …
307 Alfredo di Stéfano ARG/ESP 1953 – 1964
290 Carlos Santillana ESP 1971 – 1988
243 Ferenc Puskás HUN/ESP 1958 – 1966
208 Hugo Sánchez MEX 1985 – 1992
181 Francisco Gento ESP 1953 – 1971
172 Pirri ESP 1964 – 1980
171 Emilio Butragueño ESP 1984 – 1995
155 Amancio ESP 1963 – 1976
130 Míchel ESP 1984 – 1996
127 Fernando Hierro ESP 1989 – 2003
124 Pahiño ESP 1948 – 1953
121 Juanito ESP 1978 – 1987
104 Luis Molowny ESP 1946 – 1957
103 Ronaldo BRA 2002 – 2007
101 Iván Zamorano CHI 1992 – 1996
100 Fernando Morientes ESP 1997 – 2003 , 2004 – 2005
All-time top scorer Real Madrid – La Liga
# Name Nation Era
216 Raúl ESP 1994 – …
216 Alfredo di Stéfano ARG/ESP 1953 – 1964
186 Carlos Santillana ESP 1971 – 1988
164 Hugo Sánchez MEX 1985 – 1992
156 Ferenc Puskás HUN/ESP 1958 – 1966
126 Francisco Gento ESP 1953 – 1971
123 Pirri ESP 1964 – 1980
123 Emilio Butragueño ESP 1984 – 1995
119 Amancio ESP 1963 – 1976
108 Pahiño ESP 1948 – 1953
102 Fernando Hierro ESP 1989 – 2003
Raúl’s goals for Real Madrid per competition
# Competition
216 La Liga
64 Champions Cup/Champions League
18 Copa del Rey
7 Spanish Super Cup
3 Intercontinental Cup/Club World Cup
1 European Super Cup
309 Total
Friday, February 13, 2009
Internazionale – AC Milan preview: the match of the week
On Sunday, 15 February, league leaders Internazionale host AC Milan in the Serie A. Since 1983/1984, when AC Milan most recently re-entered the Serie A, 15 players have played for both AC Milan and Internazionale in the Milanese city derby.
According to Infostrada, Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf can make his 18th appearance in the city derby having played 5 for Internazionale and 12 for AC Milan.
Hernán Crespo (Inter) and Giuseppe Favalli (AC Milan) are the only other current squad members to have represented both clubs in the city derby.
Andrea Pirlo (AC Milan) and Francesco Toldo and Patrick Vieira (Inter) have represented both Milanese clubs but have not played for both sides in the city derby.
Players that have played for AC Milan and Internazionale in the Milanese city derby - Serie A last 25 years
Apps Player Nation Last club AC Inter Goals Last derby Home team
17 Clarence Seedorf NED AC Milan 12 5 2 28 Sep 2008 AC Milan (1-0)
11 Christian Vieri ITA AC Milan 1 10 1 11 Dec 2005 Inter (3-2)
10 Sergio Battistini ITA Internazionale 4 6 0 20 Mar 1994 AC Milan (2-1)
9 Christian Panucci ITA Internazionale 7 2 1 05 Mar 2000 AC Milan (1-2)
7 Dario Šimic CRO AC Milan 3 4 0 11 Dec 2005 Inter (3-2)
6 Roberto Baggio ITA Internazionale 4 2 2 05 Mar 2000 AC Milan (1-2)
6 Thomas Helveg DEN Internazionale 4 2 0 21 Feb 2004 AC Milan (3-2)
6 Ronaldo BRA AC Milan 1 5 5 11 Mar 2007 Inter (2-1)
5 Maurizio Ganz ITA AC Milan 2 3 1 08 Nov 1998 AC Milan (2-2)
5 Hernán Crespo ARG Internazionale 2 3 1 04 May 2008 AC Milan (2-1)
4 Andrés Guglielminpietro ARG Internazionale 3 1 0 21 Oct 2001 Inter (2-4)
4 Cristian Brocchi ITA AC Milan 3 1 0 04 May 2008 AC Milan (2-1)
4 Giuseppe Favalli ITA AC Milan 1 3 0 04 May 2008 AC Milan (2-1)
3 Francesco Coco ITA Internazionale 2 1 0 23 Nov 2002 AC Milan (1-0)
2 Domenico Morfeo ITA Internazionale 1 1 0 23 Nov 2002 AC Milan (1-0)
According to Infostrada, Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf can make his 18th appearance in the city derby having played 5 for Internazionale and 12 for AC Milan.
Hernán Crespo (Inter) and Giuseppe Favalli (AC Milan) are the only other current squad members to have represented both clubs in the city derby.
Andrea Pirlo (AC Milan) and Francesco Toldo and Patrick Vieira (Inter) have represented both Milanese clubs but have not played for both sides in the city derby.
Players that have played for AC Milan and Internazionale in the Milanese city derby - Serie A last 25 years
Apps Player Nation Last club AC Inter Goals Last derby Home team
17 Clarence Seedorf NED AC Milan 12 5 2 28 Sep 2008 AC Milan (1-0)
11 Christian Vieri ITA AC Milan 1 10 1 11 Dec 2005 Inter (3-2)
10 Sergio Battistini ITA Internazionale 4 6 0 20 Mar 1994 AC Milan (2-1)
9 Christian Panucci ITA Internazionale 7 2 1 05 Mar 2000 AC Milan (1-2)
7 Dario Šimic CRO AC Milan 3 4 0 11 Dec 2005 Inter (3-2)
6 Roberto Baggio ITA Internazionale 4 2 2 05 Mar 2000 AC Milan (1-2)
6 Thomas Helveg DEN Internazionale 4 2 0 21 Feb 2004 AC Milan (3-2)
6 Ronaldo BRA AC Milan 1 5 5 11 Mar 2007 Inter (2-1)
5 Maurizio Ganz ITA AC Milan 2 3 1 08 Nov 1998 AC Milan (2-2)
5 Hernán Crespo ARG Internazionale 2 3 1 04 May 2008 AC Milan (2-1)
4 Andrés Guglielminpietro ARG Internazionale 3 1 0 21 Oct 2001 Inter (2-4)
4 Cristian Brocchi ITA AC Milan 3 1 0 04 May 2008 AC Milan (2-1)
4 Giuseppe Favalli ITA AC Milan 1 3 0 04 May 2008 AC Milan (2-1)
3 Francesco Coco ITA Internazionale 2 1 0 23 Nov 2002 AC Milan (1-0)
2 Domenico Morfeo ITA Internazionale 1 1 0 23 Nov 2002 AC Milan (1-0)
Ryan Giggs: The Immortal
On Sunday, 8 February, Ryan Giggs scored the winning goal in Manchester United’s 1-0 win at West Ham United. It was Giggs’ first goal in the 2008/2009 Premier League season.
Giggs has now scored at least one goal in 17 different Premier League seasons.
This makes Giggs the only player to have scored in every Premier League season since its inception in the 1992/1993 season, according to Infostrada.
The only player who comes close to Giggs is Gary Speed, who scored in 16 Premier League seasons. However, he currently plays for First Division side Sheffield United and will not add to his total this season.
Paul Scholes (Manchester United) and Nicky Butt (Newcastle United) are still to score in this Premier League season.
Most Premier League seasons with at least one goal scored - Players
# Name Nation Club (# PL seasons for club while scoring)
17 Ryan Giggs WAL Manchester United (17)
16 Gary Speed WAL Leeds United (4), Everton (2), Newcastle United (7), Bolton Wanderers (4)
14 Dwight Yorke TRI Aston Villa (6), Manchester United (4), Blackburn Rovers (2), Birmingham City (1), Sunderland (1)
14 Alan Shearer ENG Blackburn Rovers (4), Newcastle United (10)
14 Andy Cole ENG Newcastle United (2), Manchester United (8), Blackburn Rovers (3), Fulham (1), Manchester City (1), Portsmouth (1)
14 Paul Scholes ENG Manchester United (14)
14 Robbie Fowler ENG Liverpool (11), Leeds United (2), Manchester City (4)
14 Teddy Sheringham ENG Nottingham Forest (1), Tottenham Hotspur (7), Manchester United (4), Portsmouth (1), West Ham United (2)
13 Nicky Butt ENG Manchester United (9), Newcastle United (3), Birmingham City (1)
13 Kevin Campbell ENG Arsenal (3), Nottingham Forest (2), Everton (6), West Bromwich Albion (2)
13 Les Ferdinand ENG QPR (3), Newcastle United (2), Tottenham Hotspur (6), West Ham United (1), Leicester City (1), Bolton Wanderers (1)
13 Emile Heskey ENG Leicester City (4), Liverpool (5), Birmingham City (2), Wigan Athletic (3), Aston Villa (1)
Giggs has now scored at least one goal in 17 different Premier League seasons.
This makes Giggs the only player to have scored in every Premier League season since its inception in the 1992/1993 season, according to Infostrada.
The only player who comes close to Giggs is Gary Speed, who scored in 16 Premier League seasons. However, he currently plays for First Division side Sheffield United and will not add to his total this season.
Paul Scholes (Manchester United) and Nicky Butt (Newcastle United) are still to score in this Premier League season.
Most Premier League seasons with at least one goal scored - Players
# Name Nation Club (# PL seasons for club while scoring)
17 Ryan Giggs WAL Manchester United (17)
16 Gary Speed WAL Leeds United (4), Everton (2), Newcastle United (7), Bolton Wanderers (4)
14 Dwight Yorke TRI Aston Villa (6), Manchester United (4), Blackburn Rovers (2), Birmingham City (1), Sunderland (1)
14 Alan Shearer ENG Blackburn Rovers (4), Newcastle United (10)
14 Andy Cole ENG Newcastle United (2), Manchester United (8), Blackburn Rovers (3), Fulham (1), Manchester City (1), Portsmouth (1)
14 Paul Scholes ENG Manchester United (14)
14 Robbie Fowler ENG Liverpool (11), Leeds United (2), Manchester City (4)
14 Teddy Sheringham ENG Nottingham Forest (1), Tottenham Hotspur (7), Manchester United (4), Portsmouth (1), West Ham United (2)
13 Nicky Butt ENG Manchester United (9), Newcastle United (3), Birmingham City (1)
13 Kevin Campbell ENG Arsenal (3), Nottingham Forest (2), Everton (6), West Bromwich Albion (2)
13 Les Ferdinand ENG QPR (3), Newcastle United (2), Tottenham Hotspur (6), West Ham United (1), Leicester City (1), Bolton Wanderers (1)
13 Emile Heskey ENG Leicester City (4), Liverpool (5), Birmingham City (2), Wigan Athletic (3), Aston Villa (1)
Note: The total number of Premier League seasons with at least one goal scored can differ when divided among the separate clubs as a player can score for more than one club in each PL season due to in-season transfers.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Tottenham Hotspur – Arsenal: the match of the week
On Sunday, Arsenal travel to their North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur. The Gunners have an excellent record against Spurs in recent years.
Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 18 Premier League matches against Tottenham, since losing 2-1 at White Hart Lane on November 7, 1999. This is Arsenal’s longest ever unbeaten run against their rivals according to Infostrada.
If Arsenal avoid defeat on Sunday, it will equal their longest ever run without a defeat against another Premier League side – level with their 19-matches unbeaten against Chelsea (1995-2005) and Aston Villa (1999-2008).
Arsenal’s longest unbeaten streaks against a specific club – Premier League
Matches Opponent From Until
19 Aston Villa 16 May 1999 01 Mar 2008
19 Chelsea 16 Dec 1995 20 Apr 2005
18 Tottenham Hotspur 19 Mar 2000 Still running
18 Manchester City 28 Sep 1992 04 May 2006
15 Leicester City 11 Feb 1995 Still running
Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 18 Premier League matches against Tottenham, since losing 2-1 at White Hart Lane on November 7, 1999. This is Arsenal’s longest ever unbeaten run against their rivals according to Infostrada.
If Arsenal avoid defeat on Sunday, it will equal their longest ever run without a defeat against another Premier League side – level with their 19-matches unbeaten against Chelsea (1995-2005) and Aston Villa (1999-2008).
Arsenal’s longest unbeaten streaks against a specific club – Premier League
Matches Opponent From Until
19 Aston Villa 16 May 1999 01 Mar 2008
19 Chelsea 16 Dec 1995 20 Apr 2005
18 Tottenham Hotspur 19 Mar 2000 Still running
18 Manchester City 28 Sep 1992 04 May 2006
15 Leicester City 11 Feb 1995 Still running
Friday, January 30, 2009
Wembley, Munich´s Fussball Arena, Lansdowne Road and Bucharest´s National Stadium chosen for 2011 and 2012 finals
London, Munich, Dublin and Bucharest have won the right to host Uefa club competition finals in 2011 and 2012.
The Champions League final will be held at London’s Wembley stadium in 2011, and at Munich’s Fussball Arena in 2012.
The final of the Europa League – formerly the Uefa Cup – will be held at Dublin’s Lansdowne Road in 2011 and Bucharest’s National Stadium in 2012.
The venues were approved at a meeting of the Uefa executive committee in Nyon, Switzerland yesterday.
Wembley beat Munich’s Allianz Arena and Berlin’s Olympiastadion to the hosting rights, in a decision that had been expected, reports the AFP news agency. AFP says Uefa had delayed a decision on the 2011 venue to give the UK government time to push through an exemption on tax rules for players appearing in the final.
Wembley’s success meant that London-based English Premier League club Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium lost out on hosting the 2011 Europa League final to Lansdowne Road. Chairman of the FA, Lord Triesman, said, "As Wembley has been chosen to host the Champions League final this means the Emirates Stadium can't stage the 2011 UEFA Europa League final. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Arsenal for all their valuable support during the bid process and recognise the very strong bid that they put together."
The Champions League final will be held at London’s Wembley stadium in 2011, and at Munich’s Fussball Arena in 2012.
The final of the Europa League – formerly the Uefa Cup – will be held at Dublin’s Lansdowne Road in 2011 and Bucharest’s National Stadium in 2012.
The venues were approved at a meeting of the Uefa executive committee in Nyon, Switzerland yesterday.
Wembley beat Munich’s Allianz Arena and Berlin’s Olympiastadion to the hosting rights, in a decision that had been expected, reports the AFP news agency. AFP says Uefa had delayed a decision on the 2011 venue to give the UK government time to push through an exemption on tax rules for players appearing in the final.
Wembley’s success meant that London-based English Premier League club Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium lost out on hosting the 2011 Europa League final to Lansdowne Road. Chairman of the FA, Lord Triesman, said, "As Wembley has been chosen to host the Champions League final this means the Emirates Stadium can't stage the 2011 UEFA Europa League final. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Arsenal for all their valuable support during the bid process and recognise the very strong bid that they put together."
FC Barcelona succeed 5000 league goals
Four months ago, it was Real Madrid time.
Now, FC Barcelona is just two goals shy of scoring their 5,000th goal in the Spanish top flight. They can reach the milestone when they travel to Racing Santander on Sunday.
Barcelona’s first ever goal in the Spanish top flight was scored 80 years ago by Manuel Parera in a match at Racing Santander in February 1929.
Most goals in La Liga - clubs
Goals Club Matches
5040 Real Madrid 2440
4998 FC Barcelona 2440
4191 Athletic Bilbao 2440
3983 Atlético Madrid 2292
3897 Valencia CF 2342
3240 RCD Espanyol 2304
3161 Sevilla FC 2086
2853 Real Sociedad 2036
2524 Real Zaragoza 1834
2041 Celta de Vigo 1508
Milestone goals for FC Barcelona in La Liga
# Name Match Date
4000 Guillermo Amor Valencia CF - FC Barcelona 4-1 09 Mar 1996
3000 Enrique Castro Quini FC Barcelona - CD Castellón 4-3 24 Jan 1982
2000 Pedro Zaballa CF Barcelona - Valencia CF 4-0 12 Jan 1964
1000 Marcos Aurelio CF Barcelona - UD Lérida 6-1 22 Oct 1950
1 Manuel Parera Racing Santander – FC Barcelona 0-2 12 Feb 1929
Now, FC Barcelona is just two goals shy of scoring their 5,000th goal in the Spanish top flight. They can reach the milestone when they travel to Racing Santander on Sunday.
Barcelona’s first ever goal in the Spanish top flight was scored 80 years ago by Manuel Parera in a match at Racing Santander in February 1929.
Most goals in La Liga - clubs
Goals Club Matches
5040 Real Madrid 2440
4998 FC Barcelona 2440
4191 Athletic Bilbao 2440
3983 Atlético Madrid 2292
3897 Valencia CF 2342
3240 RCD Espanyol 2304
3161 Sevilla FC 2086
2853 Real Sociedad 2036
2524 Real Zaragoza 1834
2041 Celta de Vigo 1508
Milestone goals for FC Barcelona in La Liga
# Name Match Date
4000 Guillermo Amor Valencia CF - FC Barcelona 4-1 09 Mar 1996
3000 Enrique Castro Quini FC Barcelona - CD Castellón 4-3 24 Jan 1982
2000 Pedro Zaballa CF Barcelona - Valencia CF 4-0 12 Jan 1964
1000 Marcos Aurelio CF Barcelona - UD Lérida 6-1 22 Oct 1950
1 Manuel Parera Racing Santander – FC Barcelona 0-2 12 Feb 1929
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Luca Toni is on fire: Hamburger SV – Bayern München
On Friday, the German Bundesliga continues after the winter break. Luca Toni can enter an elite list of scoring in most successive matches in the German league. If the Italian nets for Bayern München at Hamburger SV his scoring run will be worth a top 10 listing in German top flight history, according to Infostrada.
In 2007, Greece’s Theofanis Gekas was the last player to score in at least seven successive Bundesliga matches. His streak ended after eight matches. The league record is 10 and was set by 1. FC Köln’s Klaus Allofs in 1984.
Earlier this season Bayern’s Franck Ribéry scored in six consecutive Bundesliga matches.
Scoring in most successive Bundesliga matches of club
# Name Club Start date End date
10 Klaus Allofs 1. FC Köln 21 Apr 1984 08 Sep 1984
9 Gerd Müller Bayern München 24 Aug 1968 19 Oct 1968
8 Gerd Müller Bayern München 27 Sep 1969 15 Nov 1969
8 Gerd Müller Bayern München 06 Dec 1969 28 Feb 1970
8 Roy Makaay Bayern München 23 Apr 2005 27 Aug 2005
8 Theofanis Gekas VfL Bochum 10 Mar 2007 05 May 2007
7 Uwe Seeler Hamburger SV 30 Nov 1963 15 Feb 1964
7 Friedhelm Konietzka Borussia Dortmund 02 Jan 1965 06 Mar 1965
7 Dieter Müller 1. FC Köln 24 Sep 1977 12 Nov 1977
7 Rüdiger Abramczik Schalke 04 25 Nov 1978 17 Mar 1979
7 Rudi Völler Werder Bremen 20 Nov 1982 05 Feb 1983
7 Anthony Yeboah Eintracht Frankfurt 22 May 1993 28 Aug 1993
7 Fredi Bobic VfB Stuttgart 04 Nov 1995 17 Feb 1996
7 Roy Makaay Bayern München 28 Feb 2004 10 Apr 2004
6 Luca Toni Bayern München 09 Nov 2008 TBD
In 2007, Greece’s Theofanis Gekas was the last player to score in at least seven successive Bundesliga matches. His streak ended after eight matches. The league record is 10 and was set by 1. FC Köln’s Klaus Allofs in 1984.
Earlier this season Bayern’s Franck Ribéry scored in six consecutive Bundesliga matches.
Scoring in most successive Bundesliga matches of club
# Name Club Start date End date
10 Klaus Allofs 1. FC Köln 21 Apr 1984 08 Sep 1984
9 Gerd Müller Bayern München 24 Aug 1968 19 Oct 1968
8 Gerd Müller Bayern München 27 Sep 1969 15 Nov 1969
8 Gerd Müller Bayern München 06 Dec 1969 28 Feb 1970
8 Roy Makaay Bayern München 23 Apr 2005 27 Aug 2005
8 Theofanis Gekas VfL Bochum 10 Mar 2007 05 May 2007
7 Uwe Seeler Hamburger SV 30 Nov 1963 15 Feb 1964
7 Friedhelm Konietzka Borussia Dortmund 02 Jan 1965 06 Mar 1965
7 Dieter Müller 1. FC Köln 24 Sep 1977 12 Nov 1977
7 Rüdiger Abramczik Schalke 04 25 Nov 1978 17 Mar 1979
7 Rudi Völler Werder Bremen 20 Nov 1982 05 Feb 1983
7 Anthony Yeboah Eintracht Frankfurt 22 May 1993 28 Aug 1993
7 Fredi Bobic VfB Stuttgart 04 Nov 1995 17 Feb 1996
7 Roy Makaay Bayern München 28 Feb 2004 10 Apr 2004
6 Luca Toni Bayern München 09 Nov 2008 TBD
Saturday, January 24, 2009
The match of the week: Liverpool – Everton
Liverpool play host to Everton in an FA Cup fourth round tie on Sunday. It will be the 21st time that the two clubs have met each other in the competition which makes it the most frequently played FA Cup fixture.
Liverpool have won nine and Everton have won six of the previous 20 matches with five draws also being played.
They last met each other in the fifth round in 1990/1991, a tie which had two replays and the resignation of Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish between the first and second matches.
Liverpool and Everton have met each other in 16 different editions of the FA Cup including this season which is also a record, according to Infostrada.
Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur also play each other in this year’s fourth round. They have met each other 15 times which gives their tie a place in the top-10 most frequently played.
Most matches played in FA Cup (including replays)
# Match Years (#)
21 Everton - Liverpool 1902 (2), 1905 (2), 1906, 1911, 1932, 1950, 1955, 1967, 1971 (2), 1977, 1981, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991 (3), 2009
19 Everton - Sheffield Wednesday 1893, 1895, 1896, 1906, 1907, 1921 (2), 1937, 1947, 1954, 1965 (2), 1966, 1986, 1988 (4), 1990
18 Arsenal - Chelsea 1915, 1930, 1931, 1939, 1947 (3), 1950 (2), 1952 (2), 1973 (2), 2001, 2002, 2003 (2), 2004
16 Arsenal - Liverpool 1913, 1923 (2), 1927, 1936, 1950, 1963, 1964, 1971, 1980 (4), 2001, 2002, 2007
16 Newcastle United - Nottingham Forest 1892, 1908, 1921 (2), 1931, 1955 (3), 1967, 1974 (2), 1985 (2), 1991 (2), 1997
16 Chelsea - Sheffield Wednesday 1913 (2), 1932 (2), 1939 (3), 1966, 1967, 1968 (2), 1973, 1975, 1994 (2), 1999
15 Nottingham Forest - West Bromwich Albion 1892 (3), 1898, 1904 (2), 1958 (2), 1963 (2), 1973 (3), 1978, 2004
15 Aston Villa - West Bromwich Albion 1885 (2), 1887, 1892, 1895, 1914, 1924, 1925 (2), 1926, 1932, 1957 (2), 1990, 1998
15 Bolton Wanderers - Preston North End 1886, 1888, 1890, 1921, 1932 (2), 1958, 1959 (3), 1964 (2), 1965, 1966 (2)
15 Manchester United - Tottenham Hotspur 1899 (2), 1923, 1926 (2), 1962, 1968 (2), 1979 (2), 1980 (2), 1997, 2008, 2009
Liverpool have won nine and Everton have won six of the previous 20 matches with five draws also being played.
They last met each other in the fifth round in 1990/1991, a tie which had two replays and the resignation of Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish between the first and second matches.
Liverpool and Everton have met each other in 16 different editions of the FA Cup including this season which is also a record, according to Infostrada.
Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur also play each other in this year’s fourth round. They have met each other 15 times which gives their tie a place in the top-10 most frequently played.
Most matches played in FA Cup (including replays)
# Match Years (#)
21 Everton - Liverpool 1902 (2), 1905 (2), 1906, 1911, 1932, 1950, 1955, 1967, 1971 (2), 1977, 1981, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991 (3), 2009
19 Everton - Sheffield Wednesday 1893, 1895, 1896, 1906, 1907, 1921 (2), 1937, 1947, 1954, 1965 (2), 1966, 1986, 1988 (4), 1990
18 Arsenal - Chelsea 1915, 1930, 1931, 1939, 1947 (3), 1950 (2), 1952 (2), 1973 (2), 2001, 2002, 2003 (2), 2004
16 Arsenal - Liverpool 1913, 1923 (2), 1927, 1936, 1950, 1963, 1964, 1971, 1980 (4), 2001, 2002, 2007
16 Newcastle United - Nottingham Forest 1892, 1908, 1921 (2), 1931, 1955 (3), 1967, 1974 (2), 1985 (2), 1991 (2), 1997
16 Chelsea - Sheffield Wednesday 1913 (2), 1932 (2), 1939 (3), 1966, 1967, 1968 (2), 1973, 1975, 1994 (2), 1999
15 Nottingham Forest - West Bromwich Albion 1892 (3), 1898, 1904 (2), 1958 (2), 1963 (2), 1973 (3), 1978, 2004
15 Aston Villa - West Bromwich Albion 1885 (2), 1887, 1892, 1895, 1914, 1924, 1925 (2), 1926, 1932, 1957 (2), 1990, 1998
15 Bolton Wanderers - Preston North End 1886, 1888, 1890, 1921, 1932 (2), 1958, 1959 (3), 1964 (2), 1965, 1966 (2)
15 Manchester United - Tottenham Hotspur 1899 (2), 1923, 1926 (2), 1962, 1968 (2), 1979 (2), 1980 (2), 1997, 2008, 2009
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Liverpool – Everton preview: the match of the week
On Monday, Everton travel to Anfield Road to meet Liverpool in another Merseyside derby, hoping they can build on their recent good form and win their first league match away at Liverpool since 1999.
Everton have won their last three Premier League away matches which equals their longest away winning record in the Premier League era and the longest in 23 years since they won four consecutive top flight matches from November to December 1985.
The Toffees have not conceded a goal in their last five PL matches, which is their joint third longest streak and only two matches shy of their all-time record of seven clean sheets set between November and December 1994.
Everton conceded their last Premier League goal on 7 December when they lost 2-3 at home against Aston Villa.
Longest clean sheets streaks in English top flight - Everton
# Start date Match that ended streak
7 01 Nov 1994 Everton - Sheffield Wednesday (26 Dec 1994) 1-4
6 29 Mar 1986 Oxford United - Everton (30 Apr 1986) 1-0
5 13 Dec 2008 Still running
5 20 Oct 1984 Norwich City - Everton (24 Nov 1984) 4-2
5 20 Apr 1985 Nottingham Forest - Everton (11 May 1985) 1-0
5 18 Jan 1986 Everton - Chelsea (16 Mar 1986) 1-1
5 03 Jan 1988 Tottenham Hotspur - Everton (09 Mar 1988) 2-1
5 27 Oct 2002 Newcastle United - Everton (01 Dec 2002) 2-1
5 14-Jan-1893 Wolverhampton Wanderers - Everton (18 Mar 1893) 2-4
Longest winning away streaks in the Premier League (started 1992/1993) - Everton
# Start date Match that ended streak
3 27 Oct 2002 Newcastle United - Everton (01 Dec 2002) 2-1
3 11 Sep 2004 Chelsea - Everton (06 Nov 2004) 1-0
3 30 Nov 2008 Still running
2 31 Dec 2005 Wigan Athletic - Everton (31 Jan 2006) 1-1
2 01 Jan 2008 Blackburn Rovers - Everton (02 Feb 2008) 0-0
2 25 Feb 2008 Fulham - Everton (16 Mar 2008) 1-0
2 23 Aug 2008 Hull City - Everton (21 Sep 2008) 2-2
2 29 Oct 2008 Wigan Athletic - Everton (24 Nov 2008) 1-0
Everton have won their last three Premier League away matches which equals their longest away winning record in the Premier League era and the longest in 23 years since they won four consecutive top flight matches from November to December 1985.
The Toffees have not conceded a goal in their last five PL matches, which is their joint third longest streak and only two matches shy of their all-time record of seven clean sheets set between November and December 1994.
Everton conceded their last Premier League goal on 7 December when they lost 2-3 at home against Aston Villa.
Longest clean sheets streaks in English top flight - Everton
# Start date Match that ended streak
7 01 Nov 1994 Everton - Sheffield Wednesday (26 Dec 1994) 1-4
6 29 Mar 1986 Oxford United - Everton (30 Apr 1986) 1-0
5 13 Dec 2008 Still running
5 20 Oct 1984 Norwich City - Everton (24 Nov 1984) 4-2
5 20 Apr 1985 Nottingham Forest - Everton (11 May 1985) 1-0
5 18 Jan 1986 Everton - Chelsea (16 Mar 1986) 1-1
5 03 Jan 1988 Tottenham Hotspur - Everton (09 Mar 1988) 2-1
5 27 Oct 2002 Newcastle United - Everton (01 Dec 2002) 2-1
5 14-Jan-1893 Wolverhampton Wanderers - Everton (18 Mar 1893) 2-4
Longest winning away streaks in the Premier League (started 1992/1993) - Everton
# Start date Match that ended streak
3 27 Oct 2002 Newcastle United - Everton (01 Dec 2002) 2-1
3 11 Sep 2004 Chelsea - Everton (06 Nov 2004) 1-0
3 30 Nov 2008 Still running
2 31 Dec 2005 Wigan Athletic - Everton (31 Jan 2006) 1-1
2 01 Jan 2008 Blackburn Rovers - Everton (02 Feb 2008) 0-0
2 25 Feb 2008 Fulham - Everton (16 Mar 2008) 1-0
2 23 Aug 2008 Hull City - Everton (21 Sep 2008) 2-2
2 29 Oct 2008 Wigan Athletic - Everton (24 Nov 2008) 1-0
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Manchester United – Chelsea, the match of the week
Today, Manchester United can stretch their streak of clean sheets to eight matches when they host Chelsea in the Premier League.
Chelsea hold the record of 10 consecutive clean sheets in the English top flight.
Manchester United have already equalled their own club record of seven clean sheets, which was set between May and August 1997.
Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar can stretch his clean sheet record to 763 minutes, which would be the third longest streak in the last 10 years.
Van der Sar needs 22 minutes without conceding a goal to overtake Peter Schmeichel’s club record for Manchester United in the last 10 years.
Consecutive clean sheets – English top flight
# Club Last match before streak Match that ended streak
10 Chelsea Arsenal - Chelsea (12 Dec 2004) 2-2 Norwich City - Chelsea (05 Mar 2005) 1-3
8 Liverpool Liverpool - Oldham Athletic (26 Dec 1922) 2-1 Blackburn Rovers - Liverpool (12 Mar 1923) 1-0
8 Arsenal Coventry City - Arsenal (17 Jan 1998) 2-2 Arsenal - Newcastle United (11 Apr 1998) 3-1
8 Liverpool Fulham - Liverpool (22 Oct 2005) 2-0 Everton - Liverpool (28 Dec 2005) 1-3
8 Chelsea Liverpool - Chelsea (20 Jan 2007) 2-0 West Ham United - Chelsea (18 Apr 2007) 1-4
7 Manchester United Arsenal - Manchester United (08 Nov 2008) 2-1 Still running
7 10 other occasions
Goalkeepers with most consecutive minutes without conceding a goal – Premier League since 1998/1999
Minutes Name Start date Match that ended streak
1025 Petr Cech 12 Dec 2004 Norwich City - Chelsea (05 Mar 2005) 1-3
827 Petr Cech 20 Jan 2007 West Ham United - Chelsea (18 Apr 2007) 1-4
762 José Manuel Reina 22 Oct 2005 Everton - Liverpool (28 Dec 2005) 1-3
694 Peter Schmeichel 05 May 1997 Manchester United - West Ham United (13 Sep 1997) 2-1
689 José Manuel Reina 12 Nov 2006 Blackburn Rovers - Liverpool (26 Dec 2006) 1-0
673 Edwin van der Sar 08 Nov 2008 Still running
Chelsea hold the record of 10 consecutive clean sheets in the English top flight.
Manchester United have already equalled their own club record of seven clean sheets, which was set between May and August 1997.
Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar can stretch his clean sheet record to 763 minutes, which would be the third longest streak in the last 10 years.
Van der Sar needs 22 minutes without conceding a goal to overtake Peter Schmeichel’s club record for Manchester United in the last 10 years.
Consecutive clean sheets – English top flight
# Club Last match before streak Match that ended streak
10 Chelsea Arsenal - Chelsea (12 Dec 2004) 2-2 Norwich City - Chelsea (05 Mar 2005) 1-3
8 Liverpool Liverpool - Oldham Athletic (26 Dec 1922) 2-1 Blackburn Rovers - Liverpool (12 Mar 1923) 1-0
8 Arsenal Coventry City - Arsenal (17 Jan 1998) 2-2 Arsenal - Newcastle United (11 Apr 1998) 3-1
8 Liverpool Fulham - Liverpool (22 Oct 2005) 2-0 Everton - Liverpool (28 Dec 2005) 1-3
8 Chelsea Liverpool - Chelsea (20 Jan 2007) 2-0 West Ham United - Chelsea (18 Apr 2007) 1-4
7 Manchester United Arsenal - Manchester United (08 Nov 2008) 2-1 Still running
7 10 other occasions
Goalkeepers with most consecutive minutes without conceding a goal – Premier League since 1998/1999
Minutes Name Start date Match that ended streak
1025 Petr Cech 12 Dec 2004 Norwich City - Chelsea (05 Mar 2005) 1-3
827 Petr Cech 20 Jan 2007 West Ham United - Chelsea (18 Apr 2007) 1-4
762 José Manuel Reina 22 Oct 2005 Everton - Liverpool (28 Dec 2005) 1-3
694 Peter Schmeichel 05 May 1997 Manchester United - West Ham United (13 Sep 1997) 2-1
689 José Manuel Reina 12 Nov 2006 Blackburn Rovers - Liverpool (26 Dec 2006) 1-0
673 Edwin van der Sar 08 Nov 2008 Still running
Friday, January 9, 2009
Raúl González arriving to 500th match, goes for Manuel Sanchís
On Sunday, Real Madrid captain Raúl is likely to make his 500th Primera División appearance when his club travels to RCD Mallorca.
Raúl will become the sixth player in Primera División history to reach this milestone. Former Athletic Bilbao, FC Barcelona and Valencia CF goalkeeper Andoni Zubizarreta holds the record with 622 Primera División appearances, according to Infostrada.
Furthermore, Raúl will become the second player to represent Real Madrid 500 times in a league match. Manuel Sanchís holds the record with 523.
Most matches in Primera División
# Name Clubs Era
622 Andoni Zubizarreta Athletic Bilbao, FC Barcelona, Valencia CF 1981-1998
543 Eusebio Real Valladolid, Atlético Madrid, FC Barcelona, Celta de Vigo 1984-2002
542 Francisco Buyo Sevilla FC, Real Madrid 1980-1996
523 Manuel Sanchís Real Madrid 1983-2001
504 Miguel Soler RCD Espanyol, FC Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, Sevilla FC, Real Madrid, Real Zaragoza, RCD Mallorca 1983-2003
499 Raúl Real Madrid 1994-2009
497 Fernando Hierro Real Valladolid, Real Madrid 1987-2003
483 José Maria Bakero Real Sociedad, FC Barcelona 1980-1996
482 Loren Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao, Burgos CF 1984-2001
479 Joaquin Sporting Gijón 1977-1992
Most matches in Primera División – Real Madrid
# Name Nation Era
523 Manuel Sanchís ESP 1983-2001
499 Raúl ESP 1995-2009
461 Carlos Santillana ESP 1971-1988
439 Fernando Hierro ESP 1989-2003
428 Francisco Gento ESP 1953-1971
417 José Pirri ESP 1964-1980
414 José Antonio Camacho ESP 1973-1989
404 Míchel ESP 1984-1996
370 Roberto Carlos BRA 1997-2007
363 Chendo ESP 1983-1998
Raúl will become the sixth player in Primera División history to reach this milestone. Former Athletic Bilbao, FC Barcelona and Valencia CF goalkeeper Andoni Zubizarreta holds the record with 622 Primera División appearances, according to Infostrada.
Furthermore, Raúl will become the second player to represent Real Madrid 500 times in a league match. Manuel Sanchís holds the record with 523.
Most matches in Primera División
# Name Clubs Era
622 Andoni Zubizarreta Athletic Bilbao, FC Barcelona, Valencia CF 1981-1998
543 Eusebio Real Valladolid, Atlético Madrid, FC Barcelona, Celta de Vigo 1984-2002
542 Francisco Buyo Sevilla FC, Real Madrid 1980-1996
523 Manuel Sanchís Real Madrid 1983-2001
504 Miguel Soler RCD Espanyol, FC Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, Sevilla FC, Real Madrid, Real Zaragoza, RCD Mallorca 1983-2003
499 Raúl Real Madrid 1994-2009
497 Fernando Hierro Real Valladolid, Real Madrid 1987-2003
483 José Maria Bakero Real Sociedad, FC Barcelona 1980-1996
482 Loren Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao, Burgos CF 1984-2001
479 Joaquin Sporting Gijón 1977-1992
Most matches in Primera División – Real Madrid
# Name Nation Era
523 Manuel Sanchís ESP 1983-2001
499 Raúl ESP 1995-2009
461 Carlos Santillana ESP 1971-1988
439 Fernando Hierro ESP 1989-2003
428 Francisco Gento ESP 1953-1971
417 José Pirri ESP 1964-1980
414 José Antonio Camacho ESP 1973-1989
404 Míchel ESP 1984-1996
370 Roberto Carlos BRA 1997-2007
363 Chendo ESP 1983-1998
Friday, January 2, 2009
Chelsea seems to be the champion… of the year
Chelsea lead the FA Premiership table for the 2008 calendar year, having accumulated 86 points in 38 league matches since January 1st. according to Infostrada, the Blues have finished ahead of Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal and Aston Villa.
Premier League ranking 2008 calendar year
Rank Club Played Won Drawn Lost Points Goals Diff.
1 Chelsea 38 25 11 2 86 74 - 20 54
2 Liverpool 39 24 12 3 84 69 - 29 40
3 Manchester United 36 24 8 4 80 72 - 21 51
4 Arsenal 38 20 11 7 71 67 - 38 29
5 Aston Villa 38 18 11 9 65 69 - 47 22
6 Everton 38 18 10 10 64 47 - 36 11
7 Wigan Athletic 37 14 10 13 52 38 - 36 2
8 Portsmouth 38 14 7 17 49 40 - 53 -13
9 Fulham 37 12 11 14 47 35 - 39 -4
10 Blackburn Rovers 38 11 13 14 46 45 - 56 -11
11 West Ham United 39 12 9 18 45 41 - 61 -20
12 Sunderland 38 13 5 20 44 37 - 49 -12
13 Bolton Wanderers 38 12 7 19 43 36 - 50 -14
14 Tottenham Hotspur 38 10 12 16 42 45 - 50 -5
15 Middlesbrough 38 10 12 16 42 42 - 49 -7
16 Manchester City 38 11 8 19 41 56 - 61 -5
17 Newcastle United 38 9 12 17 39 44 - 66 -22
18 Hull City 20 7 6 7 27 28 – 37 -9
19 Stoke City 20 5 5 10 20 18 - 33 -15
20 West Bromwich Albion 20 5 3 12 18 16 - 35 -19
21 Birmingham City 18 3 7 8 16 24 - 31 -7
22 Reading 18 4 2 12 14 12 - 24 -12
23 Derby County 18 0 4 14 4 10 - 44 -34
Premier League ranking 2008 calendar year
Rank Club Played Won Drawn Lost Points Goals Diff.
1 Chelsea 38 25 11 2 86 74 - 20 54
2 Liverpool 39 24 12 3 84 69 - 29 40
3 Manchester United 36 24 8 4 80 72 - 21 51
4 Arsenal 38 20 11 7 71 67 - 38 29
5 Aston Villa 38 18 11 9 65 69 - 47 22
6 Everton 38 18 10 10 64 47 - 36 11
7 Wigan Athletic 37 14 10 13 52 38 - 36 2
8 Portsmouth 38 14 7 17 49 40 - 53 -13
9 Fulham 37 12 11 14 47 35 - 39 -4
10 Blackburn Rovers 38 11 13 14 46 45 - 56 -11
11 West Ham United 39 12 9 18 45 41 - 61 -20
12 Sunderland 38 13 5 20 44 37 - 49 -12
13 Bolton Wanderers 38 12 7 19 43 36 - 50 -14
14 Tottenham Hotspur 38 10 12 16 42 45 - 50 -5
15 Middlesbrough 38 10 12 16 42 42 - 49 -7
16 Manchester City 38 11 8 19 41 56 - 61 -5
17 Newcastle United 38 9 12 17 39 44 - 66 -22
18 Hull City 20 7 6 7 27 28 – 37 -9
19 Stoke City 20 5 5 10 20 18 - 33 -15
20 West Bromwich Albion 20 5 3 12 18 16 - 35 -19
21 Birmingham City 18 3 7 8 16 24 - 31 -7
22 Reading 18 4 2 12 14 12 - 24 -12
23 Derby County 18 0 4 14 4 10 - 44 -34
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