COPA DEL RAY SEMI-FINAL DRAW: BARCELONA BECOMES FINAL SEMI-FINALIST; DATE AND TIME FOR DRAW REVEALED

Barcelona defeated Valencia to secure the final spot in the Copa del Rey semi-finals, joining Real Madrid in the last four stage. With the lineup now complete, all eyes turn to the upcoming semi-final draw. Here’s when and where the Copa del Rey semi-final draw will take place.

Ferran Torres, Fermin Lopez and Lamine Yama scored as Barcelona thumped Valencia. Image: AP

Barcelona crushed Valencia 5-0 with Ferran Torres scoring a hat-trick as the La Blaugrana on Thursday became the fourth and final team to reach the Copa del Rey semi-finals. Besides Torres, Fermin Lopez and Lamine Yamal also scored a goal each at the Mestalla as the record 31-time Spanish Cup winners stayed on course for another trophy.

Real Sociedad also advanced to the Copa del Rey semi-finals on the same day with a 2-0 win over Osasuna, who had Alejandro Catena sent off. The other two teams in the last four round are Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.

Copa del Rey semi-final draw

Before we bring you match reports from Barcelona and Real Sociedad games, let’s take a look at when the Copa del Rey semi-final draw will take place.

The Copa del Rey semi-final draw will take place on 12 February (Wednesday) at the office of the Spanish Football Federation. The draw will take place at 1 pm CET (5.30 pm IST; 7 am ET).

The semi-finals will be played over two legs. The first legs will take place on 25,26 or 27 February with the return legs happening on 1,2 or 3 April.

How Barcelona defeated Valencia 

Ferran Torres hit a hat-trick as Barcelona routed Valencia 5-0 on Thursday to cruise into the Copa del Rey semi-finals. Fermin Lopez and Lamine Yamal were also on target for the record 31-time Spanish Cup winners as they swaggered to victory at an upset Mestalla stadium.

Earlier Real Sociedad progressed with a comfortable 2-0 win over 10-man Osasuna, joining Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid in a strong final four.

Former Valencia forward Torres took the plaudits with his treble inside 30 minutes, taking full advantage of Barca coach Hansi Flick’s decision to rest striker Robert Lewandowski.

“We thought that it would be a very difficult game, because here at Mestalla is always a hard ground to play,” Torres told TVE.

“We had the luck that we scored goals early and in the end that sunk them.”

The Spaniard netted in the third minute, running onto a fine Alejandro Balde through ball and finishing clinically against his former side.

Torres netted the second after 17 minutes when teenage winger Yamal’s shot bounced off the post back into his path.

Lopez put Barcelona three up midway through the first half with a well-timed run expertly found by Pedri Gonzalez, rounding goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski and tucking home.

Torres completed his hat-trick after half-an-hour with an accurate low finish after Raphinha teed him up on the edge of the box.

The former Manchester City winger’s bright display offered food for thought, with Barcelona scoring at least five goals in the last four games where veteran Polish striker Lewandowski has not started.

Some Valencia fans started leaving the Mestalla stadium in anger, a constant theme around the club with owner Peter Lim criticised by supporters with chants and banners.

This was Valencia’s second thrashing at Barca’s hands in the space of two weeks, after the Catalans triumphed 7-1 at home in La Liga.

‘Suffer like this’ 

Valencia had a rare moment of cheer at the start of the second half when Umar Sadiq found the net but the goal was ruled out for offside.

The gangly Nigerian striker then won a penalty but that too was scrapped after he was shown to be offside again in the build-up.

At the other end Yamal struck the post again but this time the ball flew out and to safety for Valencia.

The 17-year-old Spain star got his goal eventually with a low effort which took a small deflection and beat Dimitrievski, who could still have kept it out.

“I’m really happy with the team, how they played, we created chances and scored them from the beginning and that helped us a lot,” Flick told TVE.

“(Attacking) is the style we want to play in, you know the hunger the team has to go for the next goal… it’s a young team and they focus on scoring goals.”

Valencia are 19th in La Liga, four points from safety and Torres said he hoped they could survive in the top flight.

“I hope Valencia save themselves because in the end I’m just another fan,” added the forward.

“It’s hard to see the club of your youth and your life suffer like this, they’re really going through it.”

Valencia coach Carlos Corberan said his team had been left hurt by the defeat.

“It’s a very tough loss, especially hard because we feel the same as we did after the league game, but in front of our fans at Mestalla,” he said.

“We have to give a better account of ourselves… the fans deserve a lot more than what we have been capable of.”

In San Sebastian Ander Barrenetxea and Brais Mendez struck for hosts Real Sociedad before Osasuna had Alejandro Catena sent off for a wild challenge after 35 minutes.

Osasuna beat the same opposition 2-1 in La Liga on Sunday but Catena’s dismissal effectively ended any hope of mounting a comeback.

La Real reached the Copa semi-finals for the third time in six seasons, last winning in the 2020 edition.

- FP Sports

PSG AGREE DEAL TO SIGN FERRAN TORRES FROM BARCELONA IN €50M TRANSFER

Getty Images 

Paris Saint-Germain have reached a definitive agreement with Barcelona to secure the services of Ferran Torres in a deal worth nearly €50 million. The Spanish international forward is now poised to move to the Parc des Princes, ending his tenure at the Camp Nou after four and a half years in Catalonia.

Luis Enrique reunites with Spanish forward

According to Mundo Deportivo, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona have reached a total agreement for the transfer of Torres to the French champions. The 26-year-old forward is set to swap La Liga for Ligue 1 in a deal worth slightly less than €50 million, with the transfer fee consisting of a fixed amount and no additional performance-related variables included in the final package. The move will see Torres reunite with PSG head coach Luis Enrique, under whom he previously played during his time with the Spanish national team

.The move marks a significant shift for Torres, who has reportedly already agreed to the personal terms of a five-year contract with the Parisian giants. To facilitate the final stages of the move, the Valencian-born attacker requested permission from Barcelona via his representative to skip his scheduled return to training under Hansi Flick on Wednesday.

AFP

Financial relief for the Catalan giants

For Barcelona, the sale represents a vital injection of capital and a strategic piece of financial management. The €50 million fee is considered a highly acceptable figure for a player who was entering the final year of his contract. Torres originally joined the Blaugrana from Manchester City in January 2022 for a fee of €55 million plus an additional €10 million in potential add-ons.

Beyond the immediate transfer fee, the deal provides further economic benefits regarding the club's long-term obligations. Had Barcelona chosen to renew Torres' contract, they would have been triggered to pay an additional €8 million to Manchester City due to a specific clause inserted in his original purchase agreement.

Medical tests and final formalities

The final step in the process involves Torres undergoing a comprehensive medical assessment with the PSG staff. While the agreement is verbally binding between the presidents and sporting directors, the official confirmation remains subject to the successful completion of these physical tests.

Torres leaves Barcelona having recently played a key role on the international stage, most notably scoring in the World Cup final. His arrival in Paris will provide Enrique with a versatile attacking option capable of playing across the front three, reinforcing a squad that comes off a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa on Wednesday to lift the UEFA Super Cup.

Getty

A trophy-laden legacy at Camp Nou

Torres leaves Barcelona following a memorable and trophy-laden spell, during which he helped the Catalan giants secure three La Liga titles, three Spanish Super Cups, and one Copa del Rey. Across his time with the club, the Spanish forward made 207 appearances in all competitions, registering 65 goals and 23 assists.

- Khaled Mahmoud

BARCELONA FORWARD SAYS EL CLASICO ''THE LEAST OF PRESSURE' FOR PLAYERS

Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images

With the La Liga title race reaching its decisive stage, all eyes are now on the upcoming El Clasico between Barcelona and Real Madrid at Camp Nou.

The pressure surrounding the fixture could hardly be bigger, as Barcelona know that avoiding defeat would place them in complete control of the title race, while Real Madrid simply cannot afford to drop points if they want to keep their hopes alive.

Ahead of the massive encounter, Barcelona forward Ferran Torres spoke to AS about the emotions, pressure, and excitement that come with playing in one of football’s biggest matches.

Despite the importance of the occasion, the Spaniard admitted that players often feel less pressure during games like El Clasico because these are the matches they dream of playing throughout their careers.

“This kind of match is the one every player dreams of playing. It’s actually the opposite. That’s when there’s the least pressure. 

“It’s fun. That’s when you most want to play, when you’re most motivated,” he said.

A decent record vs Real Madrid

Ferran already has significant experience against Madrid since joining Barcelona. 

Ferran Torres is not too worried about El Clasico. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

The Spanish forward has faced Los Blancos 14 times for the Catalan side and has regularly managed to hurt their defence, registering three goals and four assists in those matches.

One of his most memorable moments came during last season’s Copa del Rey final when he scored after getting past both Antonio Rudiger and Thibaut Courtois in a decisive attacking move.

Looking back at that goal, Ferran explained that footballers barely have time to process what is happening in moments like that because instinct takes over completely.

“When the game ended, I barely even remembered the play because you don’t have time to process it. 

“During the play, it was all about seeing the opening, and you don’t think about who’s in front of you or behind you – you just focus on scoring. 

“When you see the ball go in… honestly, it’s an incredible feeling,” he concluded.

- Swapnil

KEVIN HART AND SHAKIRA WITH SPAIN FORWARD FERRAN TORRES | FIFA WORLD CUP 2026

📸: Bleacher Report Football

Colombian music star Shakira and American comedian Kevin Hart presented Spain forward Ferran Torres with the World Cup Final ‘Man of the Match’ award.

BARCELONA EDGE REAL MADRID IN EXTRA-TIME TO WIN WILD COPA DEL REY FINAL

Barcelona defender Jules Kounde struck deep in extra-time to decide a gripping Copa del Rey Clasico final on Saturday in Seville, earning his side a 3-2 win over rivals Real Madrid

Team Barcelona wins the Copa Del Rey title© AFP

Barcelona defender Jules Kounde struck deep in extra-time to decide a gripping Copa del Rey Clasico final on Saturday in Seville, earning his side a 3-2 win over rivals Real Madrid. The Catalans, aiming for a quadruple this season, won the first major trophy of Hansi Flick's reign as coach and a record-extending 32nd Spanish cup in dramatic fashion. Pedri sent Barcelona ahead at La Cartuja but two Real Madrid goals in seven second-half minutes, from Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni, pulled the Spanish and European champions level.

However, Ferran Torres struck in the 84th minute to take the game to extra-time and Kounde drilled home to win it for the La Liga leaders.

"It was a good time to bring joy to our fans -- we have to enjoy it but without forgetting the Champions League semis are coming," Torres told La 1. Barca host Inter Milan on Wednesday.

"They can make a party -- for today, it's OK," a delighted Flick, who has won all seven finals he has coached in his career, told Movistar.

Substituted Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger was sent off in the final seconds for appearing to throw an object onto the pitch towards the referee, and Lucas Vazquez, also replaced, was dismissed for further protest as Madrid unravelled.

"I don't want to talk about the referee," said stone-faced Madrid coach Ancelotti.

"I don't know what happened at the end."

Madrid started with top scorer Mbappe on the bench after an ankle injury and lost Ferland Mendy early on with a thigh issue.

Ancelotti sent on Fran Garcia to take over the job of shackling Barcelona's dazzling teenage winger Lamine Yamal.

The 17-year-old Spain star, who dyed his hair blond for the game, led the assault on Thibaut Courtois' goal.

The Catalans, who won the first two Clasicos this season in La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup, scoring nine goals in the process, controlled the ball.

They took the lead after 28 minutes, Pedri placing the ball into the top corner with precision and power from the edge of the box.

It was a sensational goal, starting with a smart Pau Cubarsi interception in his own half, before Pedri spread the play to Yamal, who teed him up once the Canary Islander reached the area.

Barcelona's opener brought Madrid out of their shell -- and also Mbappe off the bench to warm up.

The excellent Jude Bellingham netted but was offside. Vinicius Junior would have won a penalty as Inigo Martinez hacked him down but had also strayed off in the build-up.

Barcelona could have doubled their lead, with Dani Olmo's corner hitting the post and Cubarsi unable to turn home as Dani Ceballos held him back.

Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea was lenient with some heated Madrid tackles, perhaps cowed by Friday's drama as the Spanish champions seethed at his pre-match comments denouncing attacks on officials by the club's television channel.

Madrid sent Mbappe on for Rodrygo Goes at half-time and soon he and Vinicius began to work Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.

End to end

Mbappe pulled Madrid level almost on his own in the 70th minute.

The striker surged forward and was brought down on the edge of the box. He then fired the free-kick home off the post.

Seven minutes later Madrid took the lead, Tchouameni heading Arda Guler's corner past the helpless Szczesny.

Barcelona responded when Yamal played a delicious pass over the top for Torres, which drew both Rudiger and Courtois, but the Spaniard pipped both to the ball and rolled home.

Controversy unsurprisingly reared its head before the match headed to extra-time.

Barcelona clamoured for a penalty when Rudiger appeared to fell Torres, and then were awarded one deep in stoppage time as Raphinha tumbled under pressure from Raul Asencio.

However the referee, called to review the incident by VAR, overturned his decision.

In extra-time Barcelona were ascendent.

They found their winner when Kounde intercepted an uncharacteristically loose Luka Modric pass and beat Courtois from range, sparking wild celebrations.

Rudiger's dismissal and Madrid's pre-match histrionics regarding the officials will ensure the repercussions run on. The teams meet again in La Liga in May in a potential title decider.

- Agence France-Presse

BARCELONA FIGHTS BACK FOR DRAW AGAINST INTER IN SENSATIONAL FIRST-LEG MATCH

Barcelona's Lamine Yamal moves between two Inter players during their match in Barcelona, Spain, on Wednesday. | REUTERS

Barcelona and Inter Milan played to a compelling 3-3 draw in a high-octane Champions League semifinal first-leg clash on Wednesday, with teenage star Lamine Yamal shining bright.

The Italian side raced to a two-goal lead with superb strikes from Marcus Thuram and Denzel Dumfries, before the unstoppable Yamal pulled Barca back into it with a sublime solo effort.

Ferran Torres evened the score for the five-time champion, and although Inter nosed ahead through Dumfries again, a Yann Sommer own goal left the tie on a knife-edge at the halfway stage.

"Letting in that many goals (here) is unacceptable, but we also have to give Inter credit, they did very well," said Barca's Raphinha, whose fierce drive forced the own goal.

"The important thing is we leave with a result where everything can happen."

Despite losing three domestic games in a row and seeing its treble hopes crumble, Inter showed resilience and quality in Catalonia.

"After three defeats in a row we saw the real Inter tonight, we played with heart and I'm proud," Dumfries told Amazon Prime Video.

Inter was desperately hoping Thuram would be fit to play after a thigh injury, and he showed precisely why, scoring the fastest ever Champions League semifinal goal after 30 seconds.

Dumfries aimed a low cross towards Thuram and Inigo Martinez slipped at just the wrong time, allowing the France striker room to finish with an impudent back-heel flick.

Quadruple-chasing Barcelona seized control and pushed forward, roared on by the nervous Olympic stadium crowd.

Yamal, in his 100th Barcelona appearance, was leading the charge.

Inter scored its second against the run of play. Francesco Acerbi nodded on a corner and Dumfries reached the dropping ball first to score with a stunning acrobatic effort for the 2023 runner-up.

Barcelona teams over the past few years may have crumbled, but Hansi Flick's youthful side is not burdened by the series of European failures since the club's last title in 2015.

Least of all teenage wizard Yamal, who pulled Barcelona back into the game just three minutes later with a wonderful individual goal that made him the youngest player ever to score in the semis.

On the eve of the game, the Spaniard rejected comparisons to all-time Barca great Lionel Messi, but his goal was straight from the Argentine's playbook.

Yamal shook off Thuram, floated inside from the right flank and past Henrikh Mkhitaryan into the box, drawing defenders towards him, but before they could stop him, he stroked a perfect shot in off the left post.

Yamal nearly repeated the trick minutes later. This time he darted outside, pausing to let Federico Dimarco lunge past him and off the pitch.

The youngster flashed a shot from a tight angle that Sommer tipped onto the crossbar.

"Yamal is a phenomenon of the kind born every 50 years," Inter coach Simone Inzaghi said.

Barca pulled level when Pedri hooked a ball into the area for Raphinha to head across goal and Torres to convert from close range after 38 breathless minutes.

Kounde limped off before halftime in a blow for Barca, while Inter captain Lautaro Martinez also came off hurt. Inzaghi said he "doubts" if he will be ready for the return.

Inter took the sting out of the game early in the second half and then sucker-punched Barca, scoring from another corner, with Dumfries' header bouncing in off Dani Olmo.

Barcelona equalized within two minutes, with Yamal stepping over a corner on the edge of the box, allowing it to run to Raphinha.

The Brazilian's rasping effort smashed against the crossbar and then in, off the back of the unfortunate diving Sommer's head.

Inter's Mkhitaryan had a goal ruled out for an extremely tight offside, later saying he would think about it "maybe for the rest of my life," and Yamal hit the bar again as the sides could not be separated.

"We will have our chance (in Milan)," said Flick. "This is our goal, we will fight for it."

The second leg takes place next Tuesday, with the winner to face Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal on May 31 in the Munich final.

- AFP-JIJI

FC BARCELONA ANNOUNCE SQUAD FOR LA LIGA MATCH AGAINST MALLORCA

Getty Images

The next Barcelona match is upon us! The Blaugrana travel to Palma de Mallorca for a game against Mallorca at Son Moix to begin their defense of the La Liga title, and Hansi Flick has called up the following 23 players for Saturday’s clash:

Goalkeepers: Iñaki Peña, Joan Garcia, Diego Kochen

Defenders: Alejandro Balde, Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsí, Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde, Eric García, Jofre Torrents

Midfielders: Gavi, Pedri, Fermín López, Marc Casadó, Dani Olmo, Frenkie de Jong, Dro Fernández, Guille Fernández, Toni Fernández

Forwards: Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Marcus Rashford

The good news for this one is that Barça achieved their two biggest goals ahead of the season opener, registering Joan Garcia and Marcus Rashford in time for the trip to Son Moix. Wojciech Szczesny, Gerard Martín and Roony Bardghji have not been registered yet, however, and are forced to sit this one out. Marc-André ter Stegen (back), Robert Lewandowski (hamstring) and Marc Bernal (knee) are out due to injury, while Oriol Romeu and Héctor Fort are no longer in the coach’s plans and are also left out.

Predicted starting XI (4-2-3-1):

Garcia; Kounde, Araujo, Cubarsí, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Fermín, Raphinha; Ferran

The match kicks off at 7.30pm CET (Barcelona), 6.30pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 1.30pm ET, 10.30am PT (USA), 11pm IST (India), and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action.

VISCA EL BARÇA!

- Renato Gonçalves

FÉLIX GIVES ATLETICO MADRID FANS ANOTHER REASON NOT TO LIKE HIM BY SCORING WINNER FOE BARCELONA

AP Photo 

MADRID (AP) — João Félix has given Atletico Madrid fans even more reason not to like him.

Playing on loan from Atletico after falling out with the club last season — and highly unlikely to return — Felix scored with a neat shot over goalkeeper Jan Oblak in the 28th minute to give Barcelona a 1-0 home victory on Sunday and move the Catalan team closer to the top of the Spanish league standings.

“It was a relief after everything that I went through last summer,” said Félix, who was still with Atletico when he upset fans by saying his dream was to play for Barcelona. “Only those close to me know what it was like, especially my family. This was for them.”

The victory put Barcelona back within four points of leaders Girona and Real Madrid, which won their matches on Saturday. Madrid beat Granada 2-0 and Girona defeated Valencia 2-1.

Atletico, winless in its last 18 away matches against Barcelona in the league, dropped to fourth place, three points behind Barcelona in third but with a game in hand.

It was the fourth win in four matches between Barcelona's coach Xavi Hernández and Atletico's Diego Simeone.

LAMINE YAMAL IS ABSENT FROM BARCELONA'S SQUAD LIST FOR THE CLASICO AGAINST REAL MADRID

Barcelona team (Photo/Archive)

Madrid, Spain – Barcelona’s coaching staff has announced the squad list in preparation for facing Real Madrid this Sunday evening, in the 35th round of the Spanish League.

Barcelona will host their rivals Real Madrid at the Camp Nou, in a highly anticipated match that could play a decisive role in the race for the La Liga title this season.

The Catalan team’s roster witnessed the continued absence of Lamine Yamal, due to the injury he recently suffered, thus continuing his absence from the Blaugrana matches.

Barcelona’s squad list is as follows:

Goalkeepers: Juan Garcia, Wojciech Szczesny, Eder Aller.

Defense: Joao Cancelo, Alejandro Balde, Ronald Araujo, Pau Coparsi, Gerard Martin, Jules Koundé, Eric Garcia, Xavi Espart.

Midfielders: Xavi, Pedri, Firmin Lopez, Marc Casado, Dani Olmo, Frenkie de Jong, Marc Bernal.

Attackers: Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski, Rafinha, Marcus Rashford, Rooney Bardji.

- Ahmed Khairy

DANI OLMO SEALS BARCELONA WIN WITH GOAL IN 'DREAM' DEBUT

Dani Olmo celebrates after scoring for Barcelona in his debut for the club in a win over Rayo Vallecano. Getty Images

Dani Olmo celebrated a "dream debut" on his return to Barcelona as he scored the winning goal in Tuesday's 2-1 comeback win against Rayo Vallecano in LaLiga.

Olmo, 26, missed Barça's first two games of the season as the Catalan side were unable to register him because they remained in excess of their league-imposed spending limit, but his signing was finally processed this week and he made an instant impact in Vallecas.

The Spain international came off the bench at half-time and struck the decisive goal in the 82nd minute as Barça made it three wins from three to start of the season after Pedri had earlier cancelled out Unai López's ninth minute opener.

"I am really happy, really happy with the game and with the win," Olmo told ESPN. "It was a dream debut for me."

Olmo had been made to wait to make his competitive debut after signing in a €55 million deal from RB Leipzig earlier this summer following his exploits for Spain as La Roja won the European Championship.

However, the versatile forward, who came through Barça's academy before leaving for Dinamo Zagreb as a 16-year-old, said he always trusted the club would resolve the financial problems holding up his registration.

"It was a dream, of course, to come back," Olmo added. "I had no doubt when Barcelona knocked on my door. So I'm really happy to be here.

"I was confident the club [would sort out the registration]. I was ready, physically preparing for when I had the chance to start playing. Today I could make it, so I'm really, really happy how it went, how it finished and how it was really important for the team."

Barça coach Hansi Flick was also delighted with Olmo's performance after bringing him on for Ferran Torres at the break with his side trailing 1-0.

"He was waiting a long time to score a goal for Barça," Flick said in a news conference. "When he came on you saw we had more control with the ball. It was really good.

"For him, he brings that, the ball possession is really safe and also in front of the goal he knows how to score goals. For a midfield player it's not normal, but he's really good in this.

"I think the start of the second half was good for us and was the reason he was on the pitch. He's doing great, also without the ball, we are nearer the ball and pressing the opponent very good. He made the difference in the second half."

Olmo's winning goal ensured Barça became the only team in LaLiga to start the season with three straight wins -- a feat they have not achieved since the 2018-19 campaign under Ernesto Valverde.

Flick, though, is not getting carried away after wins against Valencia, Athletic Club and Rayo, insisting his thoughts are firmly fixed on the weekend's game at home Real Valladolid.

"Now we have nine points end everything is good, but it's not like this," Flick said. "We will analyse [the game] and on Saturday we have our next match and we have to play much better than in the first half.

"We defended good, but not perfect in the first half. At half-time I said to the team with 80% it's not possible to win here in this atmosphere with Rayo playing well, many long balls with fast players. It's not easy to defend this. We have to put more pressure on the ball and we did better in the second half."

Barça's win was tainted by a late injury to Marc Bernal, with sources telling ESPN the club fear the 17-year-old has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury that could rule him out for the majority of the campaign.

"It's a sad victory because Marc is injured and it looks not so good," Flick said. "We have to wait until tomorrow to see how heavy it is. When you see the dressing room nobody is happy. He made a fantastic match -- 17-years-old and such a performance. It hurts."

- Sam Marsden and Moises Llorens

SPAIN ROMPS AS GERMANY WINS FIRST WORLD CUP QUALIFIER

Spain's Mikel Merino celebrates after scoring a hat-trick in his side's 6-0 dismantling of Turkey. Photo: Reuters

Mikel Merino scored a hat-trick as a majestic Spain thumped Turkey 6-0 away in World Cup qualifying on Sunday, while a brilliant Florian Wirtz free-kick helped Germany beat Northern Ireland 3-1 to get their bid up and running.

European champions Spain were in unstoppable form in the central Turkish city of Konya, claiming their second biggest-ever away win in World Cup qualifying as Arsenal midfielder Merino scored his first professional hat-trick.

Barcelona playmaker Pedri Gonzalez opened the scoring inside six minutes and later completed the scoring, with Ferran Torres netting the visitors' other goal.

The quality of Merino's strikes was remarkable, with his first coming at the end of a superb team move and his second a controlled finish from a Pedri assist. He completed his triple with a curling shot into the top corner.

The one blemish on the night's work for Spain was the withdrawal of Nico Williams due to an apparent thigh injury, but Luis de la Fuente's team are already clear at the top of qualifying Group E with six points from two games.

"I'm very happy for winning, to pick up six points, for doing it in this way, and for scoring three goals, which is not normal – the first hat-trick of my career," said Merino.

The group winners will qualify directly for the finals, with the runners-up progressing to a play-off phase.

Georgia and Turkey come next on three points each, with the former beating Bulgaria 3-0 in Tbilisi thanks to goals by captain Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Nika Gagnidze and Georges Mikautadze.

Germany were under pressure after losing their opening qualifier 2-0 in Slovakia on Thursday, and it took them until the final quarter of their home meeting with Northern Ireland in Cologne before they could secure the victory.

Serge Gnabry gave the hosts an early lead only for Isaac Price of West Bromwich Albion to equalise before half-time.

The home fans were unhappy with Julian Nagelsmann's team, but they eventually retook the lead on 69 minutes when substitute Nadiem Amiri turned in David Raum's cross.

Liverpool star Wirtz, playing in his home city, then took centre stage by converting a free-kick in style to seal Germany's first win in Group A.

"We knew it was a catastrophe (in the) last game and we wanted to do things better," Wirtz told Germany's RTL network.

"It was a good performance (which) we can definitely build on."

They and Northern Ireland both have three points, while Slovakia lead the way on six points after Tomas Rigo's late goal clinched a 1-0 victory in Luxembourg.

Memphis Depay became the Netherlands' all-time top goalscorer with a brace in their 3-2 win in Lithuania in Group G.

Depay, who now plays in Brazil for Corinthians, scored his 51st and 52nd international goals to move clear of Robin van Persie, with whom he had been tied in first place on half a century of strikes for the Oranje.

Ronald Koeman's side have 10 points after four matches and are ahead of Poland on goal difference with a game in hand.

Poland won 3-1 at home to Finland in Chorzow with Matty Cash, captain Robert Lewandowski and Jakub Kaminski netting before Benjamin Kaellman pulled one back for Finland, who are three points behind the leading duo in third.

Belgium recorded a second 6-0 win in as many matches in Group J as they swept aside Kazakhstan at Anderlecht's stadium in Brussels.

North Macedonia beat Liechtenstein 5-0 in the same group and they are top with 11 points from five matches, one ahead of Belgium – who have a game in hand – and Wales. 

- AFP

FIFA LAUNCHES INVESTIGATION INTO BRAWL AFTER SPAIN DEFEATED ARGENTINA IN WORLD CUP FINAL

Leandro Paredes received a red card for appearing to grab Eric García by the throat as multiple altercations erupted

FIFA is launching an investigation into the altercations that broke out on the pitch after Spain defeated Argentina in the 2026 World Cup Final at New York/New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.

Spain beat Argentina, the 2022 World Cup champions, 1-0 in extra time after Ferran Torres finally got the ball past Emiliano Martínez’s goal line.

After the final whistle blew, several brawls broke out between players, and even coaches appeared to get involved.

Players scuffle after a foul by Leandro Paredes of Argentina on Rodri of Spain during the FIFA World Cup 2026 final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on July 19, 2026. (Maddie Meyer/FIFA)

Among them was Argentina’s Leandro Paredes appearing to grab Spain’s Eric García by the throat before others started shoving and tripping each other to the turf.

"Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC), the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents," a statement from the governing organization read.

Paredes ended up getting a red card after the whistle blew and was sent off the pitch. He was also shown a yellow card for a poor tackle shortly after he substituted in for his country in the second half.

Also, Argentina’s head coach Lionel Scaloni was seen being held back by a Spanish player while he was shouting toward someone. Nicola Otamendi also exchanged words with several Spain players, including their captain Rodrí before that skirmish was broken up.

There also seemed to be a moment where Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala approached Spain’s Dani Olmo and punched him on the chin before they were pulled away from one another.

Referee Slavko Vincic of Slovenia shows a yellow card to Argentina's Leandro Paredes during the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, N.J. (Pamela Smith/AP)

"We are gracious in victory, and we must be so in defeat," Scaloni said, via ESPN. "We accept the loss; we gave everything. We were stretched thin coming into this, but giving it your all, like they did today, sets a great example for our people and our country.

"You lose, and you have to pick yourself up again."

Many were quick to rip into Argentina for the brawls that ensued after losing, including BBC’s Joe Hart.

"There was one man on the pitch who did have class and that was Lionel Messi, who shook hands with every one of those Spanish players," he said, via Goal.com. "The game's done. They could have absolutely no complaints about what happened today. Disgusting behavior."

Spain and Argentina players scuffle after Spain won the World Cup final against Argentina at New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on July 19, 2026. (Mauro Pimentel/AFP)

What exactly might happen from FIFA’s investigation? Well, Paredes’ chokehold on the Spanish player would result in an automatically applied red card. Nahuel Molina and Ayala are both expected to be investigated as well.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

- Scott Thompson

BARCELONA BEAT NAPOLI TO MAKE 1ST UCL QUARTERFINAL SINCE 2020

 

Robert Lewandowski sealed Barcelona's winover Napoli. Getty

Barcelona reached the Champions League quarterfinals for the first time in four years after a 3-1 win over Napoli in their round-of-16 second leg gave them a 4-2 aggregate victory on Tuesday.

Early goals by Fermín López and João Cancelo set the hosts on their way and, after Amir Rrahmani cut the deficit before the break, Robert Lewandowski wrapped up the win with a late third.

Barcelona had been eliminated in the group stage the last two years and hadn't reached the quarterfinals since 2019-20, when they lost to Bayern Munich. Club legend Lionel Messi left Barcelona at the end of the following season.

"Very happy, Barcelona are in the top eight in Europe. It was a well-deserved qualification, a game dominated in attack and defence but also an excellent game by Napoli," Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez told Mediaset.

"Happy with the qualification and we'll see how the draw goes. Proud to be back in the quarterfinals after years."

The Champions League could be Barcelona's last realistic chance for a title this season. They were eliminated in the Copa del Rey and trail LaLiga leaders Real Madrid by seven points.

TRANSFERS THAT COULD CAUSE CHAOS: MBAPPÉ TO MADRID AND MORE

Getty

Not all transfers are created equal, especially midway through the European season in the January window. Indeed, some moves would cause shock waves through the game if they happen. They probably won't, but here are some that could do just that.

Kylian Mbappé: Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid

The big one. Mbappé's contract at Paris Saint-Germain expires in the summer and, as yet, there are no signs he is set to pen a new one. The 24-year-old reportedly wants to move to Real Madrid, but is loath to do so on a free transfer out of respect for his club, so that means the January transfer window is likely to be the last chance he could do so for a fee -- unless he agrees to a new deal with an achievable release clause, of course.

Madrid are expected to make him a pre-contract offer to sign in the summer when Jan. 1 arrives, reportedly with a 15-day deadline to accept it. Things could get messy if he doesn't. Or if he does. Either way, chaos ensues for the next few months. And if he decides to move in January for, say, €80 million, then he could get a shot at finally winning the Champions League with Madrid, as a player can no longer be cup-tied.

PLAYERS PREMIER LEAGUE SHOULD SIGN

Weston McKennie

 Kylian Mbappé, who this week was named as the top striker in the world in ESPN FC's 100 best players, will not be moving to the Premier League, as Real Madrid have officially signed him. But the clubs in England will be busy doing business during this summer's transfer window, which opens for the Premier League on June 14 and the rest of Europe on July 1, hoping to improve their squads while staying within financial regulations.

So, in the spirit of some fantasy football, here is a guide to the one player each Premier League club should sign this summer.

ARSENAL

Newcastle striker Alexander Isak might be the missing piece of the puzzle as the Gunners look to usurp Manchester City and clinch that elusive first league title since 2003-04. The Swede's grace, clinical finishing and clever movement got him 21 league goals last season, and similar returns in North London could be enough to knock Pep Guardiola's team off their perch.

Alexander Isak might be the goal scorer Arsenal will need to be able to finally win the Premier League next season. (Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)

ASTON VILLA

With Villa playing in the Champions League next season, they should think big. Napoli's impressive winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is available and would give them a new dimension.

BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION

Whoever takes over from outgoing manager Roberto De Zerbi needs to end his experiment of rotating the goalkeepers. Why not make Arsenal's unsettled man between the sticks, Aaron Ramsdale, their undisputed No. 1? It is clear he will see very little action at Arsenal now that David Raya has established himself as the clear starter.

BOURNEMOUTH

Their style of play is easy on the eyes, but Bournemouth concede too many goals. The fix, then, is signing an uncompromising defender such as Brentford's Ethan Pinnock, who rarely has an off day.

BRENTFORD

The bad news? Brentford seem certain to lose their talisman Ivan Toney during the summer window. The good news, or at least the silver lining? It will give the Bees a war chest to rebuild. They should consider signing LaLiga's 24-goal top scorer, Artem Dovbyk of Girona.

Any transfer fee would be high, but it'd be worth it.

CHELSEA

Who knows what might happen next at the soap opera that is Stamford Bridge? There may have to be high-profile departures (such as Conor Gallagher?) to meet financial targets, but Ivan Toney seems a sensible signing to boost their attacking power. It is only a matter of time before he rediscovers his scoring touch.

CRYSTAL PALACE

Manager Oliver Glasner has an exciting team when everyone is fit. His problem is that the excellent Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise struggle to stay off the physio's table, so Glasner needs cover. Arsenal's out-of-favor Emile Smith Rowe would fit the bill.

EVERTON

Finances are a touchy subject at Goodison Park after the club was hit with two separate points deductions by the Premier League for breaching financial regulations. But they'll need to splash some cash to solve their main problem -- a lack of goals. Blackburn Rovers' Sammie Szmodics, who scored 27 goals on a struggling team in the Championship during the 2023-24 campaign, could be the right player at the right price.

FULHAM

Willian has been a fabulous signing, but he's in the veteran stage of his career. To fill his boots, Fulham should consider a cheeky bid for Callum Hudson-Odoi. He has stepped up a level at Nottingham Forest, becoming a consistent threat in attack and delivering goals.

IPSWICH TOWN

Every promoted club needs an upgrade or two, and one idea here is Ross Barkley, who rediscovered his best form despite Luton Town's relegation. Barkley wants to stay in the top flight, and Ipswich would do well to oblige him.

LEICESTER CITY

Barcelona's finances are in such poor shape that the Catalan giants have to offload players. The Foxes could take advantage of this opportunity by bidding for Raphinha or Ferran Torres, both of whom have Premier League experience.

LIVERPOOL

New manager Arne Slot will know all about West Ham's superb Mohammed Kudus. He was in the Ajax team facing Slot's Feyenoord in the Netherlands.

Kudus is a menace and strikes me as a Liverpool-type player.

MANCHESTER CITY

Who could improve City, fresh off a fourth Premier League title in a row? Pedro Neto. Yes, he is injury-prone, but when fit he can be an express train out on the right flank for Wolves. If he joined City, Neto would combine with Jérémy Doku on the left flank to make City even better. A scary thought.

MANCHESTER UNITED

This season, the Red Devils looked too vulnerable at the back. Notwithstanding their terrific -- and let's face it, surprise -- FA Cup win over City, they still need to bolster their defence. The answer might be Barca's Ronald Araújo. He and centre-back Lisandro Martínez would give United a steadier look.

NEWCASTLE UNITED

If Isak leaves the club this summer, Bournemouth's Dominic Solanke could be the way to go. He is coming off his best season with 19 league goals, and he's been coached to be less a team player and more selfish in attack, all the better to break down defenses.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST

There are few problems (if any) with their attacking options, but defensively they remain vulnerable. How much they have to spend might be an issue -- you figure they'll be on a fairly tight budget -- so Peterborough's classy young central defender Ronnie Edwards is a suggested option. He has many admirers.

SOUTHAMPTON

With all three promoted clubs relegated at the end of last season, the Saints must strengthen to give themselves a chance of survival in the Premier League. One way to do that would be signing all-around midfielder Nicolas Seiwald of RB Leipzig, who could also star in this summer's Euros for Austria.

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR

Spurs are looking to expand their attacking options. Might this be the right time to convince Marcus Rashford to leave Manchester United after a troubled season at Old Trafford? A change of scene could revitalize his career and help Tottenham stay top-four contenders.

- ESPN 

EUROPEAN SOCCER NEWS: BARCA CONTINUE WINLESS STREAK, TOTTENHAM SHOCK ARSENAL

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There are only a couple of weeks until we ring in the new year but, before that, there is some football action to be decided all across Europe to finish off 2023 on a high. As always, this weekend saw some shocking results, drama, and excitement that is ever so present in the continent.

On Saturday, Tottenham achieved a historic 1-0 win over their north London rivals Arsenal in the Women's Super League, Barcelona were unable to snatch all three points in a 1-1 draw against Valencia, Borussia Dortmund continued to lose ground in the Bundesliga race following a 1-1 draw to Augsburg, and Lyon earned an important 1-0 win over Monaco that helps them in the fight to escape the relegation zone in Ligue 1.

Here is your look back at all the fun from the weekend.

FERRAN TORRES’ STATEMENT | THANK YOU CITYZENS

 

JOAO CANCELO BECOMES FIRST FOOTBALLER EVER TO ACHIEVE INCREDIBLE FEAT AFTER BARCELONA'S LA LIGA TITLE SUCCESS

Joao Cancelo has written his name into the history books following Barcelona’s clinical 2-0 victory over Real Madrid to secure the La Liga title. While the Blaugrana celebrated domestic dominance at the Camp Nou, the Portuguese defender reached a milestone that has eluded the greatest icons of the game.

A historic Clasico triumph

The Blaugrana secured the Spanish top-flight crown after a win against their bitter rivals in Sunday night's El Clasico at the Camp Nou. In doing so, they have achieved a historic first by winning La Liga as a result of a direct match against Los Blancos. Barcelona only needed to avoid defeat against Alvaro Arbeloa's side, as they led Real by 11 points going into the 35th game of the campaign.

Hansi Flick’s men delivered the goods in style, recording their 11th successive league victory on a night of double celebration. A stunning free-kick from Marcus Rashford - the first such goal in a Clasico since Lionel Messi in 2012 - was followed by a Ferran Torres strike to confirm Barca's 29th league crown and leave their rivals in turmoil.

Getty Images Sport 

Cancelo stands alone in the history books

For ex-Manchester City defender Cancelo, who won six major honours under Pep Guardiola, he has now finally won the league title that evaded him during his previous loan spell at Barca in the 2023-24 season. Brought back on loan from Saudi side Al Hilal in January, Cancelo, who appeared as a starter in last night's match, has been key in the club's stunning form in 2026, chipping in with one goal and three assists from 13 La Liga matches.

Deployed on both sides of defence, the 31-year-old has now become the first footballer to win league titles in four of Europe's 'Top Five' divisions. Having won the Primeira Liga with Benfica in 2014, the Serie A title with Juventus was the Portugal international's first 'Top Five' league championship. He then scooped three Premier League crowns while at the Etihad Stadium, before lifting the Bundesliga title while on loan at Bayern Munich. Now, with a La Liga medal secured, only France's Ligue 1 remains for him to complete the set.

Outperforming the legends

A host of legendary players have won league championships in three of the 'Top Five' leagues, but none could reach the fourth. David Beckham had the opportunity to become the first person to achieve the incredible feat; he was successful in England, Spain and France, but failed to win the Serie A title across two loan spells at AC Milan. Similarly, Cristiano Ronaldo triumphed in England, Spain and Italy, but never added a fourth major league to his haul.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic also came up trumps in Spain, Italy and France, and had the chance to create history when he joined Manchester United in 2016. However, he finished sixth in his only full season in the Premier League, though he did win the Europa League, League Cup and Community Shield. Other notable players to win titles in three major countries include Thierry Henry, Kingsley Coman, Dani Alves, Arturo Vidal, Maxwell, Sami Khedira and Claude Makelele.

Getty Images Sport 

What lies ahead for the history-maker?

Despite his loan deal from Al Hilal proving incredibly successful, questions remain regarding Cancelo's long-term future. It remains to be seen what the future holds for Cancelo come the summer, and whether Barcelona press ahead with another loan deal, look to turn his temporary stay into a permanent switch or if he returns to the Middle East.

There is, of course, the tantalising prospect of completing the "Top Five" set. With titles in England, Spain, Italy, and Germany secured, only France's Ligue 1 remains. Should Cancelo decide to leave the Camp Nou this summer, a move to a French powerhouse could provide the platform for the ultimate clean sweep of Europe's major championships.

- Donny Afroni

FC BARCELONA COACH FLICK POST-BENFICA: 'I'VE NEVER EXPERIENCED A COMEBACK LIKE THIS BEFORE '

knockout phase.
UEFA VIA GETTY IMAGES

FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick confessed that he has "never lived a comeback like this before", after the Catalans beat Benfica 5-4 in the Champions League on Tuesday to guarantee automatic qualification to the elite European competition's knockout phase.

Barca went 1-0 down inside two minutes and trailed by a two-goal margin twice in Estadio da Luz amid Greek striker Vangelis Pavlidis completing a first half hat trick in just over 30 minutes.

Raphinha made it 3-2 shortly after the interval, yet there was another setback in store in quick succession as Ronald Araujo converted a cross into his own net past Wojciech Szczesny.

Down but not out, though, the Blaugrana was given hope by a second Robert Lewandowski penalty prior to Eric Garcia beating Anatoliy Trubin with a bullet header made possible by Pedri's delightful cross.

Then in the 94th minute, Raphinha ran as if his life depending on meeting a thunderous Ferran Torres clearance out of the Barca half and scored the winner.

And as the Brazilian confessed that he is in the best moment of his career and will "kill and die for this team", Flick made some admissions of his own following the full time whistle.

"It was a crazy game. The best thing was the mentality. This is football. I don't think I've ever experienced a comeback like this," he told Movistar.

Complimenting Benfica, Flick said that the Lisbon giants are "very good in transitions" and punished Barca.

"They forced us to defend very deep, as we were not well positioned. The substitutions helped us a lot," Flick added.

Though the penalty that allowed Pavlidis to complete his hat trick was soft, Szczesny was definitely to blame for the second goal where he misjudged a run out of the box and clattered into left back Alejandro Balde making it easy for the target man to give Benfica the lead again.

Asked about the Pole's error, Flick posed a question himself.

"Which player doesn't make mistakes? We all make them. We win and lose together. I liked what I saw in the second half," he stated.

Not one to rest on his laurels, Flick said that "we don't think about being calm" just because passage to the last 16 has been granted.

"For us it's important to focus on Valencia [in La Liga] now, and then Atalanta. We don't think about being calm. We want to beat Atalanta as well," he stressed.

- Tom Sanderson

TIRELESS MBAPPÉ LEADS FRANCE TO 3-0 WIN OVER LUXEMBOURG; SPAIN, BELGIUM, DENMARK ALSO WIN

France forward Kylian Mbappe scored in the 3-0 romp © Jean-Christophe VERHAEGEN / AFP

 METZ, France (AP) — Kylian Mbappé scored late in his first game since joining Real Madrid to help France build momentum for the European Championship with a dominant 3-0 win over Luxembourg on Wednesday.

Mbappé, whose Madrid move was finally confirmed Monday, was a constant threat for Luxembourg’s hard-working defenders, but the France captain had to wait until the 85th minute before he could crown his performance with a goal.

Bradley Barcola made his France debut as a substitute and promptly won the ball, ran to the penalty and drew in more defenders before laying the ball off for Mbappé to tuck inside the left post.

In Copenhagen, Christian Eriksen scored late to give Denmark a 2-1 win over Sweden.

Mikel Oyarzabal scored a hat trick after the break to help Spain rout Andorra 5-0.

Belgium earned a 2-0 win over Montenegro with Kevin De Bruyne scoring on his 100th appearance for the Red Devils. But a host of halftime changes almost cost the team. Leandro Trossard only sealed the win with a penalty in stoppage time.

Slovakia, Belgium’s Group E opponent at the Euros, enjoyed a 4-0 win over minnow San Marino.

FRANCE IMPRESSES

Though France’s star-studded team found it tough at times to break through Luxembourg's defense, coach Didier Deschamps will have been impressed with his team’s relentless pressure and off-the-ball play.

Only the final touch was missing at times, but Deschamps has a chance to fine-tune the side in its final tournament warmup against Canada in Bordeaux on Sunday.

Antoine Griezmann was back after missing the March internationals with an ankle injury. Randal Kolo Muani made a rare start with Ousmane Dembélé unavailable through illness.

France probed and harried but had to wait nearly the whole of the first half for the opener. Mbappé drew two defenders to the end line and crossed for Kolo Muani to head past Anthony Moris in the 43rd minute.

Marseille defender Jonathan Clauss finally made it 2-0 with a strike in off the underside of the crossbar.

Les Bleus are in Group D with the Netherlands, Poland and Austria.

ERIKSEN’S SMILE

Christian Eriksen sealed Denmark’s 2-1 win over neighbor Sweden with a long-range strike in the same stadium where he collapsed after a cardiac arrest at Euro 2020.

The 32-year-old Eriksen, who had been tormenting the Swedish defense throughout, took the ball past a defender and then unleashed a fierce shot inside the far post in the 86th. It was his 41st goal in his 129th appearance for Denmark.

Morten Hjulmand likely preserved the win by getting back with a timely challenge to deny Emil Holm when it seemed the Sweden substitute would score.

Pierre-Emile Höjbjerg scored in the second minute to get Denmark off to a great start, but Alexander Isak leveled seven minutes later.

Sweden missed out on Euro 2024 qualification, while Denmark is in Group C with England, Serbia and Slovenia.

The Danes’ final warm-up will be against Norway on Saturday.

Erling Haaland scored a hat trick to give Norway a 3-0 win over Kosovo. Neither country has qualified for Euro 2024.

SPAIN CRUISES

Once Real Betis forward Ayoze Pérez opened the scoring, it was only a matter of how many goals Spain would score against Andorra.

Ayoze broke the deadlock after a corner in the 24th when he set the ball up with his first touch and rifled it in from a difficult angle in the next.

Oyarzabal scored his hat trick in a 20-minute period after the break, and Barcelona’s Ferran Torres completed the rout in the 81st.

Spain was without Real Madrid’s Champions League winners Dani Carvajal, Nacho and Joselu.

Spain is in Group B with Croatia, Italy and Albania. The team plays Northern Ireland for its final warmup on Saturday.