La Liga Preview: Valencia - Villarreal

A Derby for Starters

The clash at the Mestalla is not the only derby of opening weekend. Despite being somewhat overshadowed by the epic Madrid clash, and even though it is not an actual derby (both clubs do not inhabit the same city), this encounter consists of all the necessary ingredients to make it a real derby and a major spectacle: disdain for the opposition, an ultra-competitive spirit and desire to dismantle close rivals for the purpose of bragging rights.

Derby wins make fans happy. Not only is it a great chance to begin with a bang a season from which both clubs expect great things, but it can engender added affection, commitment, and passion for the cause from supporters.

The above point is particularly pertinent here, because fans of both Los Che and El Submarino Amarillo have, albeit to varying degrees, had their patience tested over the course of last season. Now it's time to party.

Getting Along Famously

Che coach Quique Flores’s spat with fiery technical director and former Valencia left back, Amedeo Carboni, was a strong contender for leading soap opera of the season for 06/07, with one of the two looking destined for the chop in the summer, if only to lower the decibel levels and uneasy atmosphere at club headquarters.

The Italian is gone, replaced by Angel Ruiz, and all, for now, seems to be well.

Flores has largely got his own way in the transfer market with Argentine Roberto Ayala replaced with the promising Alexis from Getafe, and the striker shortage remedied by the acquisitions of Javier Arizmendi and Nikola Zigic, the latter for big money. Everybody is well aware – and Flores has admitted as much – that Los Che are still searching for a midfield alternative to Ruben Baraja in the transfer market, and Ruiz will have to get his skates on to secure a signature.

With the summer over, Flores embarks on a season that should have less backroom disruption, with strong expectations for improvement on last term and a real title challenge.

A Season to Forget

By comparison, very little went wrong at Valencia last season when you consider the trials and tribulations suffered by Manuel Pellegrini at El Madrigal.

One minute a top four challenging outfit with bags of quality, the next a team languishing in mid-table and unable to buy a victory. Injury crises and a terribly off-colour, fatigued Riquelme blew any hopes the yellow submarine had of a title challenge, which seemed a real possibility given the previous year's form, while recruitment was also notable. In the end, they lost key centre-back Rodriguez (who is now injured again) and new boys Pires and Nihat at the campaign's start, and it went downhill from there.

A magnificent resurgence in the final third of 06/07 saw Villarreal soar up the table to a UEFA Cup spot, and took the pressure off poor Pellegrini. Last season’s closing improvement went some way to redeeming any flagging confidence in the former River Plate coach’s ability, but the redemption is surely on the provision that his team – now significantly re-fashioned – do the business this time around. It all starts now.

FORM GUIDE

Valencia

Aug 18 vs Parma (h) Lost 2-0 (Friendly)
Aug 14 vs Elfsborg (h) Won 3-0 (Champions League 3rd Qualifying Round Leg 1)
Aug 4 vs Manchester City (a) Won 1-0 (Friendly)
July 29 vs Paris Saint Germain (n) Lost 3-0 (Friendly)
July 28 vs Inter (n) Won 2-0 (Friendly)

Villarreal

Aug 19 vs Livorno (h) Drew 2-2 (Friendly)
Aug 14 vs Osasuna (h) Won 3-0 (Friendly)
Aug 10 vs Sporting Braga (h) Won 3-1 (Friendly)
Aug 7 vs Hercules (a) Won 4-0 (Friendly)
Aug 3 vs Zaragoza (a) Drew 1-1 (Friendly)

TEAM NEWS

Valencia

Flores is likely to opt for the team fielded most often last season, and again due to enforced circumstances. Vicente was substituted early against Elfsborg after a slight niggle, and Flores does not want to push the player too hard after some chronic injury problems. Miguel and Morientes should be restored to the team after starting on the bench against the Swedish side, with Silva reverting to the left wing. There is a choice of centre-back partnerships, but an old face in the shape Marchena could well start ahead of new arrivals Alexis and Helguera for this tricky opener, alongside Raul Albiol. Zigic and Edu remain unavailable for the time being.

PROBABLE STARTING XI: Canizares, Miguel, Marchena/Alexis, Albiol, Moretti, Joaquin, Albelda, Baraja, Silva, Villa, Morientes

Villarreal

Pellegrini faces life without Gonzalo Rodriguez yet again after the summer recurrence of his injury, so new signing Diego Godin should debut, as should Capdevila at left back. The Chilean has far more options in midfield and much will depend on whether he wishes to play two up front at the Mestalla, or play a supporting forward just behind a lone striker. Pires, Fernandez or Jose Mari could fulfill such a role. Nihat is struggling a little with fitness, but newly signed strikers Tomasson and Rossi will be hoping for their first competitive appearance. Spanish football fans should also get a first look at French starlet Mavuba, though the more experienced Josico might be preferred for this tough away encounter.

PROBABLE STARTING XI: Viera, Venta, Fuentes, Godin, Capdevila, Cani, Senna, Mavuba/Josico, Pires, Fernandez/Rossi, Tomasson


PLAYERS TO WATCH

Valencia – David Silva

Villa took most of the plaudits outside of Spain as Valencia’s most potent weapon last season, but this little wizard of either flank (or just off the front) was just as consistent and equally effective. Top class, but will be a marked man this season.

Villarreal – Robert Pires

Having missed the majority of last season after a cruel summer injury, his re-introduction to the fold galvanized the team and kick-started a surge up the table that eventually secured European football for this coming season. Villarreal can look forward to such an influence from day one this time, providing those old legs stay intact.

PREDICTION

Major personnel changes at Villarreal mean the yellow submarine might take a little longer than their Mestalla counterparts to get the engines running to full capacity. It is likely to be a highly tenacious, competitive and technical affair (La Liga at its best), but Valencia should have too much for the visitors on the night.

City run ends as Chelsea take over

Chelsea were not at their best but still take over at the summit ahead of City thanks to a narrow victory over Pompey at Stamford Bridge.

The visitors' Matt Taylor came close before Frank Lampard's shot on the half-hour from 18 yards had too much power for David James, who could only deflect it weakly into the net.

Gary O'Neil shot narrowly wide for the visitors early in the second period and Benjani also came close after bursting through on goal, while Ashley Cole headed off the line late on from Hermann Hreidarsson.

Arsenal came more into the clash at Emirates Stadium after City had the best of the early chances but Manuel Almunia was forced to save well at Emile Mpenza's feet just after the hour mark.

The Gunners then missed a gilt-edged chance to take the lead when Kasper Schmeichel saved Robin van Persie's penalty following Micah Richards' foul on Aleksandr Hleb, but Cesc Fabregas (80) blasted home at the near post from Hleb's pass to spare the Dutchman's blushes. Arsenal move up to fifth.

Two late goals left honours even between West Ham and Wigan at Upton Park.

The Hammers seized the initiative and had a good penalty appeal turned down for a foul on Mark Noble while Craig Bellamy's 'goal' was ruled out for offside before half-time.

But Wigan scored when Paul Scharner's well-placed overhead kick found the corner of the net in the 79th minute before Lee Bowyer finished from a tight angle two minutes later to leave it 1-1.

The result means Chris Hutchings' Latics lie third in the table.

Shaun Maloney scored in injury-time to hand Aston Villa a thrilling 2-1 win over Fulham at Villa Park.

The Cottagers went ahead in the fifth minute when the ball ricocheted into the path of Clint Dempsey who clipped home clinically into the top corner, while John Carew and Diomansy Kamara both hit the woodwork.

Villa claimed a merited leveller when Ashley Young's cross was deflected into his own goal by Zat Knight (50) and Chris Baird was then sent off for two bookings.

Birmingham won the clash of the promoted sides at Pride Park with a 2-1 triumph over Derby, who now slip to bottom.

The visitors went ahead after 32 seconds when Cameron Jerome shot across Stephen Bywater from a tight angle and Radhi Jaidi later hit the crossbar for Blues with a powerful header.

Matt Oakley (51) buried Eddie Lewis' far-post cross to level but Jerome's fine half-volley (63) put Steve Bruce's men back in front.

The pressure eased on Bolton boss Sammy Lee as his men claimed a 3-0 win over Reading at the Reebok Stadium.

Gary Speed (32) headed them in front from El-Hadji Diouf's corner and Nicolas Anelka's tap-in (55) after more good work from the Senegalese made things comfortable for Wanderers.

Daniel Braaten added a third in injury-time from Anelka's brilliant cross.

La Liga Preview: Real Madrid - Atlético Madrid

The 2007/08 La Liga season kicks off with a bang on Saturday as the high-octane Madrid derbi between Real and Atlético Madrid will officially get the new campaign underway.

Champions Already Under Pressure

Even before the first kick of a ball in La Liga, reigning champions Real Madrid are already feeling the sweltering heat of pressure from fans and media alike.

After dishing out over €120 million to strengthen their team (or should one say completely overhaul their squad) and enduring a pre-season that hasn't exactly gone to plan, manager Bernd Schuster will have almost no room for failure come kick-off, especially since it is a clasico encounter against city rivals Atlético Madrid. That it is only day one of the new term should be no excuse to the men in white for not putting on an impressive show and bagging all three points.

It might be a little cruel for Schuster to begin his Real tenure with a Madrid derbi but the flip side of the coin is that the players on the pitch will not require any extra motivation nor ear-piercing lectures to go out and hit top gear straight away. The experienced campaigners will know by now that a clash with their crosstown rivals means more than just the three points. Pride and bragging rights are also always high up in the list of priorities and the newcomers will realize this as soon as the opening whistle is blown.

Late Show Continues

After putting on a series of incredible comebacks and "late shows" toward the end of last season to pip Barcelona to the league title, Madrid have continued with that particular theme in the transfer market this season. What looked like a fairly quiet start to their summer spending (by their standards at least) suddenly burst to life over the last two weeks as they splashed out close to €90 million in a space of fourteen days.

Arjen Robben, Gabriel Heinze, Wesley Sneijder and Royston Drenthe arrived at the Spanish capital with the typical Real fanfare and that immediately eliminated any question over their once unsurpassed spending power. But as president Ramón Calderón's predecessor will know only too well, all that extravagant spending will mean precious little if it's not translated into success. Instant success!

Out Of The Shadows?

Atlético Madrid have long been in the shadows of their illustrious neighbours. Aside from the obvious discrepancy in the trophy cabinet, Los Colchoneros have not beaten Los Merengues in their last 11 league meetings, stretching all the way back to October 1999 when they won 1-3 at the Bernabéu.

But for the new season, the mattress men can at least lay claim to having the type of summer shopping spree usually seen only in the white half of the city. Chairman Enrique Cerezo spent over €80 million bolstering his club to make up for the loss of their favourite son, Fernando Torres. Many fans believe that his departure and instant cash flow has already benefited the club greatly, as it allowed manager Javier Aguirre to enhance the depth and competitiveness of the squad.

The arrivals of Simão Sabrosa from Benfica, former Pichichi winner Diego Forlán from Villareal, Luis Garcia from Liverpool and Jose Antonio Reyes from Arsenal - via Real Madrid - will bring a good mix of quantity and quality to the team as they look to improve on last season's 7th place finish and also make an impression in the UEFA Cup.

Pre-Season Verdict

The pre-season preparations have not been pretty for Bernd Schuster and his boys. Inconsistent results and unimaginative performances culminated in last weekend's 3-5 trashing by Sevilla in the second leg of the Supercup. The knives were already out on Schuster even before that crushing loss after tame defeats to PSV Eindhoven and Real Betis is friendly cup competitions. If ever there is a time for Los Blancos to get going, it would be right now.

Atlético have been more solid in their pre-season and they will hold a slight advantage going into the game having played more competitive matches due to their Intertoto and UEFA Cup participation.

After an early shock 2-1 loss to minnows from Romania Gloria Bistrita in the first leg of the Intertoto, Aguirre's side have since hit their stride as they swept aside Serbians Nojvodina Novi Sad 3-0 in the first leg of the UEFA Cup qualifying round, followed by a 0-2 win at Getafe in their final pre-season friendly. But as the cliché goes, statistics, history and form book usually go flying straight out the window in a mammoth clash like this.

FORM GUIDE

Real Madrid

Aug 19 vs Sevilla (h) LOST 3-5 (Super Cup)

Aug 11 vs Sevilla (a) LOST 1-0 (Super Cup)

Jun 17 vs Real Mallorca (h) WON 3-1 (Primera Liga)

Jun 09 vs Real Zaragoza (a) DREW 2-2 (Primera Liga)

May 26 vs Deportivo La Coruña (h) WON 3-1 (Primera Liga)

Atlético Madrid

Aug 16 vs Nojvodina Novi Sad (h) WON 3-0 (UEFA Cup)

Jul 28 vs Gloria Bistrita (h) WON 1-0 (Intertoto Cup)

Jul 21 vs Gloria Bistrita (a) LOST 2-1 (Intertoto Cup)

Jun 17 vs Osasuna (a) WON 1-2 (Primera Liga)

Jun 09 vs Celta Vigo (h) LOST 2-3 (Primera Liga)

TEAM NEWS

Real Madrid

The big news coming out of the Bernabéu would have to be the last minute arrivals of Arjen Robben and Gabriel Heinze. However, the pair will have to postpone their debuts for another week, having yet to reach peak fitness and yet to be fully incorporated into the team.

The main concern is the fitness of goalkeeper Iker Casillas. The Madrid number one injured his right knee during training with the Spanish national team and he will be closely monitored over the next 48 hours. Jerzy Dudek will step in if he fails to recover in time. Gonzalo Higuain and Miguel Torres will be left out of the squad as they work on their minor injuries.

SQUAD: Casillas, Dudek - Sergio Ramos, Salgado, Pepe, Metzelder, Cannavaro, Heinze, Drenthe, Marcelo - Baptista, Sneijder, Diarra, Gago, Guti, Balboa, de la Red, Robben - Raul, Saviola, Robinho, Soldado, Higuain, van Nistelrooy

PROBABLE STARTING XI: Casillas/Dudek - Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Cannavaro, Drenthe - Sneijder, Diarra, Guti, Robinho - Raul, van Nistelrooy

Atlético Madrid

Jose Antonio Reyes will make an emotional return to the Bernabéu but his place in the starting line up is not guaranteed, especially after the influx of new midfield arrivals in the summer. His chances will be boosted though with Simão and Maxi Rodriguez both racing against time to pass a late fitness test, as will Greek defender Yourkas Seitaridis.

A fight for a place upfront is equally fierce with Mista, Luis Garcia and the impressive young "Kun" Agüero vying for a start alongside Diego Forlan.

SQUAD: Leo Franco, Abbiati - Seitaridis, Antonio Lopez, Mariano Pernia, Fabiano Eller, Ze Castro, Perea, Ibanez, Juan Valera - Luccin, Raul Garcia, Maxi, Jurado, Maniche, Cleber, Simão, Cuevas, Reyes - Forlan, Luis Garcia, Agüero, Silva, Braulio, Mista,

PROBABLE STARTING XI: Leo Franco - Ze Castro, Ibanez, Perea, Antonio Lopez - Maxi, Raul Garcia, Luccin, Simão /Reyes - Agüero, Forlan

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Real Madrid - Wesley Sneijder

Among all the fresh faces, the 23 year old Dutchman will be the one to keep an eye on, as he holds the key to Real's midfield creativity. As the new crossball and set piece specialist, expectations of him will be even higher now that he is seen as a near-direct replacement for David Beckham. Robinho will be Schuster's other hope to spark some much needed imagination to the team, as the Brazilian will be eager to finally prove himself to the Bernabéu faithful after his excellent showing in the Copa America.

Atlético Madrid - Diego Forlan

The former Yellow Submarine hitman will put Real's shaky defence to the ultimate test. Aguirre is expected to go with an attacking mindset and the Uruguayan will have plenty of support and firepower from his midfield teammates. Jose Antonio Reyes often did his most damage coming on as a substitute for Real Madrid last season and he'll be looking to do the same this term, except for Atlético's benefit. Also look out for Simão, Maxi and Agüero to provide plenty of sizzle to trouble the merengue defence.

PREDICTION

Real Madrid will be looking to avoid the disaster of last week at all cost. There will be plenty of fireworks in this encounter, despite the fact that opening day matches usually take a while to get going.

Real Madrid 2-2 Atlético Madrid

Wiltord completes Rennes switch

The France forward, who had a year left on his contract at Les Gones, signed a two-year deal with the Brittany club on Wednesday.

The transfer fee has not been revealed but it is believed to be in the region of 1.5million euros (£1million).

Wiltord, 33, started his career at Rennes in 1991, but left in 1997 to join Bordeaux. He has also played for English outfit Arsenal in a distinguished career.

He should make his debut for his new club on Saturday, when Rennes play Metz in the league.

Henry Strikes To Guide Les Bleus Past Slovakia

Slovakia were far from a disgrace to their home support as they went down 1-0 at home to France. Les Bleus controlled most of the first half and deservedly led at the break, but their second half slowdown might have cost them against a more cutting-edged side...

France did just enough to beat a tenacious Slovakia side in Trnava this evening, a Thierry Henry strike late on in the first half proving sufficient to sink the Bojovni Jondovci.

While the visitors tailed off towards the end, they were slightly the better side overall, but did not quite display the quality of a team so recently victorious over current world champions, Italy.

It was a largely even first half, but one in which both sides had their chances - and one that the French took.

Anelka started well for the French, but it was perhaps Slovakia's Vittek that had the best chance of the opening 20 minutes as he very nearly beat Landreau with a speculative effort.

The PSG keeper was slow to react, the relief on his face easily apparent when the ball sailed narrowly wide.

France began to find their feet and, bar a brief scare engineered by Hamsyk and Vittek, the action remained in the Slovak half up until the opening goal.

Henry and Ribery had both threatened plenty, but it was the former that was to get his country off the mark.

The new Barcelona forward defied his marker and unleashed a slapshot that foxed Senecky, giving Les Bleus the lead with six minutes until half time.

Indeed, Henry was to continue threatening going into the second half, but France found themselves largely unable to make a breakthrough.

Toulalan came on for Vieria, who handed over the captain's armband to Thierry Henry, but not even this talismanic switch could break down the Slovaks.

In fact, France were slowing down, while Holosko - brought on at half time for his second match in two days - seemed in fine fettle, playing a low cross for Vittek which Landreau had to be quick to grab on the hour mark.

Ribery was driving the French creative engine by this point, but his long range shots were proving futile.

Once more Slovakia drove forward, Vittek laying the ball off for Hamsik in the box, but the Napoli forward couldn't make his effort count. Vittek and Cech continued to try their luck, but it was all for nought.

As the game wore on, it was all over bar the substitutions as the French first team did what the second string failed to do the night before: leave Slovakia with a win.

Goals: 0-1 (Henry 39)

Slovakia: Senecky; Durica, Cech, Had (Zofcak 67), Krajcik; Klimpl, Mintal (Holosko 46), Hamsyk, Sapara (Kozak 71); Sestak (Slovak 46), Vittek
Yellow Cards: Klimpl 22, Slovak 69

France: Landreau; Mexes (Boumsong 88), Clerc (Sagna 63), Abidal, Evra; Malouda, Vieria (Toulalan 59), Makelele, Ribery (Nasri 72); Henry (Benzema 85), Anelka
Yellow Cards: Malouda 48

Stunning wins for Hungary & Norway

Poland came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against England's Euro 2008 Group E qualification rivals Russia in an international friendly in Moscow tonight.

The hosts, who travel to Wembley on September 12, had held what looked to be a comfortable 2-0 lead at the interval following strikes from Dmitri Sychev and Roman Pavlyuchenko.

But the Poles, who top Group A in Euro 2008 qualifying, scored twice in four second-half minutes with Jacek Krzynowek and Jakub Blaszczykowski earning a share of the spoils.

Fellow qualification hopefuls Israel, who play Steve McClaren's side four days before Russia, lost 2-1 to Belarus.

Shimon Gershon's 29th-minute penalty had looked to be enough to secure a draw but a late spot-kick for the hosts earned the hosts a win.

Table-topping Croatia won a thrilling match at Bosnia 5-3, with Arsenal man Eduardo Da Silva scoring, while Robert Kovac and Darijo Srna both claimed a brace. Macedonia drew 0-0 at home with Nigeria.

Elsewhere in a qualifier from England's group, Indrek Zelinski earned a last-minute 2-1 win for Estonia over Andorra in the battle of the bottom sides after Fernando Silva had equalised for the visitors.

Norway received a boost ahead of their upcoming European qualifiers against Moldova and Greece with a John Carew-inspired 2-1 victory over Argentina in Oslo.

The Aston Villa striker scored in either half for the Scandinavians, the first coming from the penalty spot, with Maxi Rodriguez grabbing a late consolation for the South Americans.

Scotland's Group B opponents Ukraine ran out 2-1 winners against Uzbekistan thanks to strikes from Olexander Gladkiy and Ruslan Rotan.

Lithuania, meanwhile, won 2-1 against lowly Turkmenistan.

Sweden, who top Group F ahead of Northern Ireland, closed out a 1-0 victory over the USA - Kim Kallstrom making the crucial intervention for the home team.

Spain, another team vying for qualification alongside Nigel Worthington's side, ran out 3-2 winners over Greece. David Silva inspired the win with a pair of second-half strikes.

Italy, who along with France stand in the way of Scotland's qualification hopes, suffered an unexpected 3-1 defeat to Hungary.

West Brom midfielder Zoltan Gera got the second goal for the victors from the penalty spot, while the world champions could only muster Antonio di Natale's 49th-minute effort.

The French, meanwhile, had a more heartening result with Barcelona's former Arsenal skipper Thierry Henry claiming the only goal of the match against the Republic of Ireland's Group D opponents Slovakia.

There was one qualifier in that group, with Cyprus winning by a single goal over rock-bottom San Marino.

In a Group A qualifier, Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo showed his employers what they were missing during his ongoing suspension with the equalising goal against Armenia.

The winger's 37th-minute goal saved Portugal's blushes but a 1-1 draw against the unfancied hosts still represents a poor return.

In other competitive fixtures Belgium beat Serbia 3-2 and Finland triumphed 2-1 over Kazakhstan - with Tottenham's Teemu Tainio on the scoresheet.

England slump to defeat

Wednesday Aug 22 2007 22:10

Paul Robinson's blunder and a wonder-strike from Christian Pander saw Germany come from behind to defeat England 2-1 in their friendly encounter at Wembley.

The Tottenham goalkeeper had looked short of confidence for both club and country after conceding an own goal following a freak bobble of the ball during a Euro 2008 qualifying defeat in Croatia last October.

And Robinson, who was replaced at half-time by David James, was at fault as Kevin Kuranyi cancelled out Frank Lampard's opener before Germany went on to win an entertaining match in front of another full house at the new national stadium.

England coach Steve McClaren opted to pair Alan Smith with Michael Owen in attack after seeing his side decimated by a number of withdrawals from key players.

It was England who started brightly and, after some gentle probing mainly led by Joe Cole, they took the lead in the ninth minute.

Micah Richards was the architect of the move which saw him cut inside from the right flank and feed Lampard in the penalty area.

The Chelsea midfielder still had plenty to do but fired a swerving shot inside the near post from ten yards to claim his first goal in eight international appearances.

Up until that point a patched-up German side had looked a little out of sorts, but the opening goal seemed to spark the visitors into life and they levelled the match in the 27th minute.

Christoph Metzelder had already gone close with a header before Robinson gifted Germany an equaliser with a spectacular blunder.

The England number one mis-judged a Bernd Schneider cross from the right which was flighted in behind him and he could only palm it back onto his bar with the rebound falling at the feet of the waiting Kuranyi.

England responded and Smith was within a whisker of flicking a David Beckham free-kick into the far corner in the 32nd minute.

But in the 40th minute Germany moved up through the gears and took the lead with a superb second goal.

Philipp Lahm and Thomas Hitzlsperger combined to set up Pander, who fired a superb 25-yard shot beyond the diving Robinson on his international debut.

Owen could have equalised as England launched an immediate attack but his diving header from Smith's pinpoint cross was clawed away by Jens Lehmann.

The Newcastle striker then contrived to lift the ball over the bar from point-blank range when a poor parry from Lehmann fell at his feet six yards from goal.

At half-time Steve McClaren replaced Robinson with James, while a spate of substitutions early in the second period had an unsettling effect on the game.

Smith was replaced by Peter Crouch while Kieron Dyer came on for Owen.

Cole came close for England when he cut inside his marker and sent a low right-footed drive from 18 yards just the wrong side of the upright on 58 minutes.

At the other end, Kuranyi hung his head in shame after latching on to a long ball from the back only to lob his shot wide of the mark with James in no man's land.

Dyer was guilty of wasting another gilt-edged opportunity in the 65th minute when he guided Beckham's early low cross wide of the upright from eight yards with Lehmann flat-footed.

Lampard was next to go close as he lifted an eight-yard effort over the bar after neat interplay among the midfield quartet, while captain John Terry saw a 77th minute header from a Beckham corner cleared off the line by Pander.

England patiently looked for an equaliser but found the visiting defence a tough nut to crack as Germany played out time for a morale-boosting victory.

Chelsea Strike 5.5M Belletti Agreement

Frustrated by Sevilla's inflated valuation of Daniel Alves, Chelsea have chosen to look for alternative solutions, and sealed a 5.5 million euro deal for Barcelona's Juliano Belletti.

Chelsea have been in the market for a right back pretty much since the start of the summer, and Daniel Alves has been the number one target for a while now.

However, Sevilla have refused to budge from their 36 million euro valuation of the right-back, and in fact raised it to 40 million on Wednesday.

It was a clear indication that they wanted to hang on to their star player as they head for their maiden Champions League campaign. Chelsea understood the signs full well (alternatively, you could say that their patience finally wore thin).

With Real Madrid selling fellow Brazilian right-back Cicinho to Roma, another avenue was closed, and the Blues have pitched for yet another Brazilian full-back in Juliano Belletti.

Belletti had a reasonably good first two seasons at the Nou Camp after moving from Villarreal in a swap deal involving Jose Reina in 2004. In fact, he wrote himself into Barcelona's history books in May 2006, when he scored the winner against Arsenal in the Champions League final.

However, he has since been demoted to the bench due to the arrival of Gianluca Zambrotta from Juventus, and was keen on a move away in order to get more first team chances.

That he will get at Chelsea, who actually played Michael Essien at right-back against Liverpool last weekend. A 5.5 million euro deal has been struck, and though there is no official confirmation yet, Goal.com can confirm that the 31-year-old left for London late yesterday evening. He is expected to sign a three year contract at Stamford Bridge later today.

He has won two La Liga titles and the Champions League with Barcelona, as well as the 2002 World Cup with Brazil.

Confirmed: Madrid Sign Gabriel Heinze

Real Madrid have announced the shock signing of former Manchester United left-back Gabriel Heinze.

"Real Madrid and Manchester United have reached an agreement for the transfer of the footballer Gabriel Heinze. The Argentine, 29, will sign a four year contract and immediately be incorporated into coach Bernd Schuster's squad."

Heinze, then, becomes Madrid's fourth defensive signing of the summer, after Pepe, Metzelder and Drenthe - but perhaps the most surprising.

The switch, reported to be worth around 10 million euros for the Old Trafford side, comes after months of speculation over the Argentine's future.

The Argentine was unhappy at Old Trafford, particularly after losing his first team spot to Patrice Evra last season. In possession of a letter from Manchester United which said he could leave for £6.8m, he set about finding suitors.

Real Madrid had been linked with him earlier in the summer, but went cold after securing Pepe and Metzelder. Liverpool were are the ones who have been keen on his services over the last month.

The Anfield side matched the Red Devils' £6.8m (10m euro) valuation, but Sir Alex Ferguson announced that United were unwilling to sell to a top-tier rival.

The dispute then went to the Premier League Arbitration Panel, who ruled that the letter did not supercede Heinze's contract, and that United could not be forced to sell against their wishes.

An Old Trafford exit was still on, but the destination ever more uncertain!

Heinze then denied this morning that a move to Real Madrid was in the offing, and insisted that he was looking to appeal the Premier League's decision. However, the latest communique from Madrid comfirms otherwise.

Heinze played over 50 league matches for Manchester United in his three year spell at Old Trafford, one that was interrupted by a major knee injury.

Chelsea And Madrid Agree 36m Robben Deal

The 23-year-old winger has been heavily linked with a move to the Bernabeu ever since Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon promised to land him during his election campaign last summer.

The deal had stalled over the player's valuation, with Real Madrid scoffing at the 36 million euro price tag.

However, the pre-season set-backs suffered by Los Merengues have forced their hand in some ways, and with the La Liga start less that 72 hours away, they have agreed to meet Chelsea's asking price.

Reads a statement released by the club:

Real Madrid CF and Chelsea FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of Arjen Robben to the Spanish Club. The Dutch player will sign a five-year contract with the Whites. The player still has to pass a medical exam.

The former PSV Eindhoven star, who was initially a massive success at Stamford Bridge before losing his way under manager Jose Mourinho last year, will travel to Madrid today, and put pen to paper on a five year deal after completing a medical.

The move sees Real president Ramon Calderon finally come good on a part of his election promise, which was to sign Cest Fabrages, Kaka and Arjen Robben.

Real Madrid have also signed Gabriel Heinze from Manchester United on Wednesday, the Argentine having been forced to leave Old Trafford anyway after his attempts to move to Liverpool crashed and burned.

The signings take Real Madrid's summer spending well beyond the 100 million euro mark. The breakdown is as follows:

Pepe: 30m, Drenthe: 18m, Sneijder: 27m, Robben: 36m, Heinze: 10m; Total: 121m.

Deducting the maximum of 11 million that they may net for Cicinho, it brings the total spending to 110 million euros. Javier Saviola, Christoph Metzelder and Jersy Dudek were signed on free transfers.

Bundesliga Round-Up: Schalke Hammer Dortmund, Bayern Crush Bremen

Marcello Bordon, Christian Pander, Gerald Asamoah, and Kevin Kuranyi were all on the scoresheet in Gelsenkirchen for the 130th Revier derby as Schalke extracted a measure of revenge over Dortmund for last May's costly defeat at the Westfalenstadion.

Dortmund, never in the game, replied through Nelson Valdez when trailing 3-0, but had a miserable afternoon capped by the sending off of Marc-Andre Kruska with five minutes remaining.

In Bremen, Bayern demolished Werder 4-0 with an exhibition of attacking football. Frank Ribery's 31st-minute penalty - earned for a foul on Luca Toni - set the championship favourites on their way.

Second-half goals from the Italian, Hamit Altintop, and Andreas Ottl sealed an emphatic victory - only their second in eight visits north.

Report: Werder 0-4 Bayern

Elsewhere, Hertha BSC came from behind to shock champions VfB Stuttgart 3-1 in the capital through goals from Sofian Chahed, Malik Fathi and Solomon Okoronkwo.

Arminia Bielefeld were denied a second successive win in a 2-2 draw with Eintracht Frankfurt, Wolfsburg got off the mark with a 3-1 win at Duisburg, and Nürnberg won 2-1 at Rostock.

Bayern sit alone at the top of the table, with six points from two games, though Hamburger SV could join them there if they beat Bayer Leverkisen tomorrow. Schalke 04 moved into second place thanks to their big win over Borussia.

La Liga Taster: A Piece Of Argentina In Spain

One of the greatest flavours of La Liga is its Latin taste. The South American influence in Spain is evident throughout the league and Argentina as ever can lay claim to some of the league’s finest stars.

One of football’s historic powers provides a number of players of whom much is expected over the coming season, and in years ahead.

Sergio Agüero (Atlético Madrid)

While Atlético will be expecting Maxi Rodriguez to score his fair share of goals; they will be demanding an even greater contribution from Kun. Fresh off leading Argentina to their 6th Under-20 World Cup, taking the Golden Shoe (6 goals) and Golden Ball in the process, Agüero will now be expected to play week in week out and producing the goods despite his tender age (19).

Having won the race to sign Agüero last summer from Independiente, the departure of Torres will place more responsibility on his young shoulders as he pairs up with Uruguayan Diego Forlan this season. Expect to see Agüero flourish this season and fully establish himself in La Liga.

Lionel Messi (FC Barcelona)

It will come as little surprise to see ‘Pulga’ (Flea) top the list of Argentines expected to have the greatest influence on La Liga this season. Already one of the great players of the world at just 20 years of age, it is surely just a matter of time before he reigns as the greatest player in the game at present.

Whether that status will be earned over the next 12 months or during the next 2 to 3 years we will very soon find out. Despite missing a portion of last season, Messi still managed to find the back of the net 14 times in 26 games (in La Liga), including a stunning hatrick against Real Madrid in a 3-3 draw at the Camp Nou.

Diego Milito (Real Zaragoza)

There is now only one Milito at Zaragoza following the departure of Gabriel Milito to Barcelona. And although the defensive leadership of Gabriel will be missed at La Romareda, the Blanquillos can still count on the goals of his elder brother. Milito had an outstanding season in 2006/07 and just missed out on the Pichichi.

Pablo Aimar (Real Zaragoza)

Providing the bullets for Milito will be Aimar. The diminutive playmaker moved to Zaragoza from Valencia last summer and had a very productive season. Much the same will be expected this season and the further blossoming of the trio involving Aimar, Milito and Andres D’Alessandro.

Maxi Rodriguez (Atlético Madrid)

Having missed 6 months of last season with a cruciate ligament injury picked up in an international against Spain, Maxi Rodriguez takes over the role of captain following the departure of Fernando Torres to Liverpool.

Following on from an excellent 2006 World Cup, Maxi extended his deal at Atlético until 2010 thwarting interest from some of Europe’s other top clubs, including Inter Milan. Los Rojiblancos will be counting on his leadership as well as goals from midfield if they are to break into the top four this season.

Clemente Rodriguez (Espanyol)

The left back restored his reputation after an unsuccessful spell at Spartak Moscow by returning to Boca Juniors and being part of another Copa Libertadores success. Espanyol moved in to snap up the full back and will benefit from his energy down the left hand side.

Ezequiel Garay (Racing Santander)

The cultured centre back was linked with a number of moves away from Spain but has so far remained at the club. His performances last season put him on the brink of international recognition. Reward for those displays has resulted in an international call-up for Argentina’s clash with Norway later this month.

Roberto Abbondanzieri (Getafe)

'Pato' (Duck) finished last season statistically as the best keeper in La Liga, conceding just 30 goals in 36 games. This season Abbondanzieri will need to be on his toes once more as Getafe have signed Oscar Ustari as his backup and future replacement. Abbondanzieri’s performances will dictate whether that change is made sooner rather than later.

Gonzalo Higuain (Real Madrid)

The French born Argentine forward spent much of last season working hard out of position on the right hand side rather than scoring the goals he was brought to the Santiago Bernabéu to score. How Higuain will be used this season at Real remains to be seen, but whether it be upfront or out wide, he will be expected to add more goals and production to his game rather than the industry and unselfishness he exhibition since joining in January.

Roberto Ayala (Real Zaragoza)

A fixture at the back for Argentina and Valencia for many years Ayala made the move to Villareal in the summer. However, he bought himself out of the deal and left for Zaragoza citing that the club would be more suited to his needs and familiarity. Even at the age of 34 Ratón (Mouse) oozes class and will fill the void left by Gabriel Milito.

Newcastle United Join Deco Race

Newcastle supremo Mike Ashley is apparently on the lookout for a world-class, big-name midfielder to round off his squad - and Deco fits the bill. The unsettled midfielder is somewhat out of favour at the Nou Camp, adding to the Toon's chances of landing him - but they still face competition from Inter...

Two players could yet swap the Nou Camp for St. James' Park as Newcastle United look to prise both Juliano Belletti and Deco away from Catalonia.

The north-east club's interest in Belletti is well-known, but Deco has only recently been added to the mix following reputed interest from club owner Mike Ashley.

The secretive billionnaire's representatives have reportedly already begun sounding out a bid for the player, although with Italian giants Internazionale also interested, it's far from a foregone conclusion that even a firm offer would be enough to land the Portuguese midfielder.

However, rumours persist of an imminent £8m (12 million euro) offer for Deco, who has found himself on the margins of Barcelona's pre-season preparations.

Deco has in the past stated a desire to play in the Premiership, most notably with his compatriot Jose Mourinho's Chelsea side, while his attitude towards an Inter switch is not fully known.

The international transfer window closes on August 31, and Barcelona must submit their squad list to the LFP by this time. Whether it'll be with or without Deco remains to be seen.

Barcelona have already offloaded four players this summer, while Newcastle United have already made several high-profile signings, including Alan Smith.

Trezeguet And Mexes In Domenech's Massive Squad

Trezeguet had rapped Domenech for his comments on match-fixing and Italy, in what was a rather surprising comment from a player directed at his coach.

"I read what he [Domenech] said and my God I was annoyed," Trezeguet had said. "What a disgrace.

"By talking like that, Domenech has damaged the country of France and most of all the world of football. He talks for the sake of talking."

However, he has found a place in the 34-strong squad named by Domenech for next week's friendly against Slovakia.

Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira have also been named after only just returning from respective injuries.

"The goal of this is to come together, to reset our goals and to mobilize everyone in order to qualify for the Euro 2008," Domenech said.

France face Italy and Scotland in two crucial Euro 2008 qualifiers in September.

Squad

Goalkeepers: Sebastien Frey (Fiorentina), Mickael Landreau (PSG), Ulrich Rame (Bordeaux), Teddy Richert (Sochaux).

Defenders: Eric Abidal (Barcelona), Jean-Alain Boumsong (Juventus), Francois Clerc (Lyon), Patrice Evra (Man. Utd.), William Gallas (Arsenal), Gael Givet (Marseille), Philippe Mexes (Roma), Reveillere (Lyon), Bakary Sagna (Arsenal), Sebastien Squillaci (Lyon), Lilian Thuram (Barcelona), Jonathan Zebina (Juventus).

Midfielders: Abou Diaby (Arsenal), Alou Diarra (Bordeaux), Lassana Diarra (Chelsea), Claude Makelele (Chelsea), Rio Mavuba (Villarreal), Samir Nasri (Marseille), Jerome Rothen (PSG), Jeremy Toulalan (Olympique Lyon), Patrick Vieira (Inter Milan).

Forwards: Nicolas Anelka (Bolton), Karim Benzema (Lyon), Jimmy Briand (Rennes), Djibril Cisse (Marseille), Thierry Henry (Barcelona), Florent Malouda (Chelsea), Frederic Piquionne (Monaco), Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich), David Trezeguet (Juventus).

Boumsong Linked As Lyon Look For More Defensive Cover

Former Auxerre stopper Jean-Alain Boumsong has been linked with a return to France, with Olympique Lyonnais apparently showing an interest in the Juventus man.

The French champions are in the midst of an injury crisis and drastically need reinforcements; Cris recently suffered an injury that could see him out until well after the New Year, following a collision with Johan Elmander in his side's 1-0 defeat to TEF.

Boumsong, who won Serie B with Juventus last season, could yet be drafted in as cover, with L'Equipe speculating that the Stade Gerland side is weighing up a £2m bid for the international defender.

Cameroon-born Jean-Alain started his career at Le Havre before being snapped up by Auxerre. Following four successful years at AJA, Rangers swooped for the then-24 year old, landing him on a free transfer.

Mere months later he was off to Newcastle United in a mammoth £8m deal that has since become subject to inquiry from Lord Stevens, with reported "outstanding issues" involving players' agents.

Boumsong's time at St. James' Park was less than exemplary, and he was soon on the way to Juventus for a £3.25m fee, where he was a part of last season's Serie B title-winning side.

Now, though, with Juventus back in the top flight, the Old Lady has signed likes of Jorge Andrade to shore up the central defence, meaning little room for Jean-Alain in the first team.

Whether he decides to return to Lyon - or whether OL even bid - is still, however, open to question.

Les Gones currently sit mid-table after one win and two defeats in their first three games. Juventus kick off their season this Saturday with a home clash against Livorno.

Flores keen for Rafael deal

Van der Vaart: Wanted by Valencia

Valencia coach Quique Sanchez Flores admits he is desperate to sign Hamburg's Rafael van der Vaart.

Hamburg are unwilling to sell the Holland international midfielder, despite the player also expressing a desire to join Valencia.

Che have tabled a 14million euros (£9.5million) bid for Van der Vaart, who has a contract with the Bundesliga club until 2010.

Flores is keen to take the former Ajax ace to Spain but Hamburg will not budge as they bid to hang onto him.

"The signing of Van der Vaart would be very important because he is perfect for us," Flores told Las Provincias.

"This kid offers a lot of quality as he is technically very good."

Flores' contract

Meanwhile, Flores wants to extend his contract with Valencia.

Flores' deal runs out next summer but the 42-year-old is looking to stay at the Estadio Mestalla beyond this season.

"Without doubt, I am happy at this club and I desire for continuity in my project," he said.

Flores' agent Manuel Garcia Quilon has yet to begin negotiations with Valencia over a new deal.

Tottenham Make Move For Riquelme

Tottenham have made an offer to Villarreal for Argentine playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme, according to the players agent.

While all the talk is of Spurs' reported plans to sack manager Martin Jol it seems someone at the club is at least still looking to strengthen the side with the arrival of the Argentinean who has fallen out with his La Liga club.

Riquelme spent the second half of last season on loan with Boca Juniors, but a move to another European club seems more likely before the end of the current transfer window as he has still not cleared the air with Villarreal.

Riquelme's representative Marcos Franchi said: "Despite that we haven't been told anything officially, we know that Villarreal has received a very important offer from Tottenham and that the president Fernando Roig is analysing it.

"They have to make a decision before August 31, otherwise Riquelme will stay at Villarreal as there aren't any other serious negotiations.

"If nothing new appears I think that they should accept this offer as it is good for the club and the player.

"I don't think that Riquelme would be useful for Villarreal without playing.

"It would be much more useful for them to sell him so they recover what they invested in him when they bought him."

It is believed the offer is in the region of £10m and is currently being considered by club president Fernando Roig.

Milan admit Ronaldinho dream

Ronaldinho: Milan target

Milan supremo Silvio Berlusconi has admitted he dreams of bringing Barcelona star Ronaldinho to the Rossoneri.

Berlusconi has never hidden his admiration for Ronaldinho and would love to bring him to the Giuseppe Meazza.

Milan have previously insisted they would be at the front of the queue to sign Ronaldinho should Barcelona ever decide to sell him.

However, Berlusconi concedes that is unlikely to happen as Barcelona would never sell the Brazilian maestro.

"The dream, it's useless saying, is still Ronaldinho, but Barcelona president (Joan) Laporta said that should he sell him to me, not only would he not be club president anymore, but he could be exiled," Berlusconi told Gazetta dello Sport.

"In the immediate future I don't think we can sign him."

Berlusconi also refused to rule out a renewed move to sign Real Madrid midfielder Emerson.

A move for the Brazilian midfielder collapsed at the 11th hour after Real pulled the plug on the deal, but Berlusconi has hinted they could rekindle the deal.

"I only know the negotiation was set to be closed," added Berlusconi.

"We thought we had already signed Emerson, but I don't exclude the possibility to sign him in the next days.

"He's a quality player who would complete our midfield."

Emerson has pleaded with Milan to make a new move for him as he is not happy at El Santiago Bernabeu.

"I thought everything was sorted out, but my agent called to say there were problems," Emerson told Gazetta dello Sport.

"He told me to stay calm and be patient, so I took his word for it. As I wait, I am back training with my team-mates.

"Lets wait and see what will happen.

"I have another two years on my contract with Real, but if I have the choice then I certainly want to leave. I have spoken of Milan many times, they are my objective.

"In this moment I don't think of money, but only to feel good and find a different environment than this one.

"I look for respect, something I think I deserve for what I have done in football."

Emerson also warned Real they would have to consider the ramifications if they decide to keep him against his will.

"If Real do not lower their economic demands, they must be prepared to accept the responsibility and consequences of keeping me here," concluded Emerson.