1 January 2008 - A Sound In The Forest

On 1 January 2008, Nottingham Forest hosted Huddersfield Town in a League One match that delivered controversy before the opening whistle.

Several clubs across the UK started their matches that day with a moment of silence for Motherwell captain Phil O'Donnell, who collapsed during a match three days earlier and died. Forest manager Colin Calderwood, a former teammate of O'Donnell's, elected not to join them, however, saying "The fact that it was a boy in Scotland, does that make it any different to a boy in Colombia?"

Forest proceeded to win the match, 2-1, and subsequently earned promotion to the Championship for the 2008-09 season.

Calderwood later had cause to regret his comments. In October 2010, he became manager of Hibernian less than a month before Motherwell were scheduled to visit. Before that match, played on 13 November, the Motherwell supporters demanded an apology from Calderwood. He duly obliged, saying "It's something that has caused offense and for that I can only apologize."

Real Madrid Opens Training Session For 5,000 Fans (30 Dec 2010)

Yesterday training session was unusual, since around 5,000 fans could watch their idols working out closely at the Alfredo Di Stefano. Only 3 players absence, Dudek, Higuain, and Diarra. The last name was absent due to family problems.

The weathers was cold, but it didn't stop the fans enjoying their time watching, taking photographs, and cheering the players. Some of the lucky fans even got the autograph from the players.

The training started with the usual warming up, and afterwards, Mou split the players into 2 teams. Casillas, Arbeloa, Albiol, Ramos, Marcelo, Xabi, Lass, Özil, Kaka, Benzema and Pedro Leon to play at the combination formed by Adam, Mateos, Garay, Carvalho, Pepe, Gago, Khedira, Canales, Barn, Juanfran and Morata. On both sides, Cristiano Ronaldo and Di Maria played wild, always adding to the attack of the team that had possession of the ball.

Later there were four groups that play two simultaneous practice match, with only use half of the fields. The fans celebrated and applauded when the players scored, especially when Kaka scored. The fans applaused as they couldn't wait to see him get back on the pitch again.

TRAINING VIDEOS

31 December 1972 - Coupet Rolls Off The Line

On 31 December 1972, French goalkeeper Grégory Coupet was born. He went on to help Lyon to a record seven straight Ligue 1 titles from 2002 to 2008.

Born in the commune of Le Puy-en-Velay in south-central France, Coupet joined the youth program of his local club, Olympique Le Puy, but signed his first professional contract with Saint-Étienne in 1993. He made only one appearance for the club that first season, but established himself as a regular starter the following year. Despite his promising performances, Les Verts were relegated at the end of the 1995-96 season, prompting his move to rivals Lyon in December 1996.

At Lyon, Coupet anchored a defense that saw steady improvement in the club's final league position every year, culminating in their league title at the end of the 2001-02 season--the first in an unprecedented seven consecutive Ligue 1 titles. Along the way, they also won the Coupe de France (2008), Coupe de la Ligue (2001), and the Trophée des Champions (six times, from 2002 to 2007). By the time Coupet left Lyon for Atlético Madrid in the summer of 2008, he had made 518 appearances, ranking him second on the club's all-time list behind Serge Chiesa (541 appearances from 1969 to 1983).

Despite his club success, including Ligue 1 Keeper of the Year awards in 2004 and 2005, Coupet never enjoyed a long run as France's first-choice keeper, falling behind Fabien Barthez earlier in his career, then behind Hugo Lloris and Steve Mandanda later. Nevertheless, he earned a total of 34 caps, including a starting run during Euro 2008.

He retired in 2011 after finishing his career at Paris Saint-Germain.

Cristiano Ronaldo Training Pictures and Video With Real Madrid (30 December 2010)

Looks like it's fine between Iker and Cris now, hope it's not just an act for the paparazzi..

Now it's more like it !! Kaka is back on training with the guys, and of course, his bromance partner, Cristiano .... This time, we get lots of pictures from the session. Go to the GALLERY for more pictures !!

TRAINING VIDEO

30 December 2009 - Footballers Of The World Unite (Part 2)

On 30 December 2009, Arsenal won at Portsmouth, 1-4, in a match where neither side's starting XI included an Englishman. It was the first time that had happened in the English top flight.

While not necessarily uncommon for Arsenal at the time, it was an unusual development for Pompey, who were forced by injury to start Bosnian keeper Asmir Begović in place of their regular keeper, England's David James. The most-represented nation on the pitch that day was France, with a total of 7 (5 for Arsenal and 2 for Portsmouth). An additional two players--Portsmouth's Hassan Yebda and Nadir Belhadj--were born in France, though both play internationally for Algeria. The remaining players were from Bosnia, Iceland, the Republic of Ireland, Israel, South Africa, Scotland, Ghana, Spain, Belgium, Wales, Cameroon, Russia, and Croatia.

The Gunners went up 3-0 with goals from Eduardo (28'), Samir Nasri (42'), Aaron Ramsey (69'), before Belhadj puled one back for Portsmouth in the 74th minute. After Alex Song restored the visitors' margin in the 81st minute, an Englishman finally stepped onto the pitch, with midfielder Craig Eastmond (pictured) replacing Nasri in the 85th minute. Not to be outdone, Pompey added an Englishman of their own, with midfielder Michael Brown replacing Scotsman Richard Hughes.

Real Madrid Started Training Session (29 Dec 2010)

Real Madrid team began their first training today, after a week holiday to prepare their next game against Getafe, 3 January 2011.

The team started working out with the absence of 6 players, all of them with the permission of the club.
The players who missed the training are Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe, Di Maria, Lass and Diarra, and Xabi Alonso. Some of them had to participate in a national team match.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Mourinho Will Leave to US ??

First, we heard Cristiano having a clash with Real Madrid players, and second, we heard Mourinho having a small rift with Valdano. This time, the media is reporting that both Portuguese will be off soon from Real Madrid, and will land their feet in the country of Uncle Sam.

Could it be true ? But why US ?
First fact, for Cris, we know that his girlfriend is currently lives in New York. And that his problem or whatsoever with the Spanish player in Real Madrid, is mostly to be true. Because, on Real Madrid latest match, none of the Spanish players congratulate him when he scored, no matter how often Iker denied it, still .... we have our own eyes to trust.

Besides, on Real Madrid christmas lunch recently, no one from the Spanish player sat on the same table with him. Even though Iker went with Cris on the same hospital afterwards for giving present for the kids, clearly there was  no bonds between them. Cold as ice....

For Mourinho's case, I wouldn't know for sure. Mou is the type of person who gets easily being hated by anyone who comes accross him. But here's a hint. He just visiting New York recently for his Christmas holiday.( Snow season US, and he prefers to go there...hmmm) He almost missed the flight, got stuck at JFK due to a snow storm in New York, but he is finally able to get back to Madrid for their first training session today (29 Dec 2010).

But asside from that, American media wrote that Cristiano will leave Madrid next summer,since he is not very happy at Madrid, and not feeling supported. The indication, he get's more fouls from other players, however, still accused on diving or provoke the jury.

In Mourinho case, Perez is reported to be tired of his bad behaviour on the referees, and all. And Mou didn't think he has the support he needs from the club. He is probably not be too welcome in the Spanish league, or Italy, and prefer United States as his new career challenge. Who knows ??

Cristiano Ronaldo Has Bought an Island For Private Time With Girlfriend Irina

The news is getting weirder by day.. Although I'm not 100% sure with the news, but still I have the obligation to report this.

So yes, According to Spanish Daily Republica, Cristiano Ronaldo has been reported that he just bought an island for € 20 million called Parley Island, in Spanish colony. The Spanish Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba is announcing the agreement, just like you see in the pictures above(but what bugging me the most, is the pictures looks like it's being photoshoped).

Anyway, The Minister has assured that the process is still on pending, waiting for parliamentary approval, and that the ooperation will facilitate the relations with Morocco.

Esteban Gonzalez Pons, the Deputy Secretary of popular communication shows a reaction and protest the unusual salesment.

Parsley Island is located in the strait of Gibraltar, 200 metres from the African coast, around 8 mines northwest of the nucleus of Ceuta. Although according to the paper the island belongs to Spain, the Morocco still claiming it as their own.

Cristiano Ronaldo himself, expressed his joy in sealing the deal in purchasing the island. "It is a happy news that I will ensure my privacy during the holidays and to rest next to Irina," said the striker, who adds that the idea of buying Parsley came from the director of Real Madrid(Weird number 2, that he mentioned Irina, which is rare for him to do).

"So I figured that the island will be a private place for Irina and me. When I like something, I'll buy it. I bought it withing days," claimed the Portuguese.

Cristiano Ronaldo joins other celebrities who have bought their own private island, such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Eddie Murphy, Shakira, Alejandro Sanz, Athena Onassis, and David Copperfield. However, they paid for a lower price than Cris paid for Parsley Island. But anyway, let's wait for further news, whether this news just a scam, or real....

29 December 2009 - El Niño Turns Fifty

On 29 December 2009, Spanish striker Fernando Torres scored his 50th league goal for Liverpool, reaching that milestone faster than any other player in the club's history.

Nicknamed "El Niño," Torres arrived in Liverpool from Atlético Madrid in July 2007 when he was only 23. He made his league debut for the Reds on 11 August 2007, then scored his first league goal one week later in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea. He provided a total of 33 goals in all competitions that first year, helping Liverpool to a 4th-place league finish and the Champions League semifinals. His 24 league goals tied him for second in the Premier League.

Injuries hampered his second season on Merseyside, limiting him a still-respectable haul of 14 league goals as Liverpool secured a second-place finish.

The record 50th goal came the following season, his third with Liverpool. Deep into stoppage time at Aston Villa with the match scoreless, Torres latched on to a 93rd-minute rebound and slotted it past Villa keeper Brad Friedel for the win. It was Torres' 72nd league match for Liverpool, eight matches fewer than the club's former record-holder Sam Raybould and 12 matches fewer than Liverpool's all-time leading goalscorer, Ian Rush.

Lionel Messi and Girlfriend Antonella Marriage Rumor

Lionel Messi is rumored to wed his beautifull girlfriend Antonella Rocuzzo at the end of year 2010. This news is hardly to be confirmed, since Messi always played mysterious when it comes to his private life.

But one thing is for sure, when his colleagues at Barcelona only have a week holidays, and will be back on training on late December 2010, Messi got an extended vacation, and is expected to be back with the squad in January. Could this be he gets a honeymoon breaks??

The couple have met last December, and began dating ever since. But Messi almost never mentioned their relationship to the media. So I guess we have to wait and see.

Irina Shows Off Again in La Senza Lingerie

Does she ever get tired showing off her sensual figure on the media ? Guess not.
After her hot pose in GQ and Intimissimi, now she's back again, doing her speciality as a lingerie model. This time, it's for the high street chain La Senza.

Definitely looks stunning wearing pairs of underwear set.
She is the latest model who posed for La Senza. In the past, Gemma Atkinson, Ronaldo's ex girfriend also posed for La Senza, as well as Petra Nemkova, the super sexy Russian model.

28 December 1993 - The Return Of The Kaiser

On 28 December 1993, Bayern Munich legend Franz Beckenbauer returned to his former club, this time as manager.

Beckenbauer, nicknamed "Der Kaiser," originally joined Bayern's youth team in 1959 and remained with the club until 1977. During that time, they won 4 league titles, 4 DFB-Pokal Cups, and 3 consecutive European Cups (1974, 1975, 1976). He also helped guide Germany to victory in the 1972 European Championship and the 1974 World Cup. His play earned him the Ballon d'Or in 1972 and again in 1976.

After spells with the New York Cosmos and Hamburg, he moved into management, with successful tenures in charge of West Germany and Olympique Marseille before his return to Bayern in 1993. The return brought more silverware in the form of the 1994 league title. After only one season, he became president of the club, though he briefly returned as manager in 1996, winning the UEFA Cup.

He is still with Bayern at present as chairman of the club's advisory board.

Coleen Rooney and Family Cruise Vacation

Coleen Rooney took her parents and sister Rosie to watch her husband play with ManUtd. And tomorrow, the family will be jetting off to Miami, to enjoy a £30,000 Disney themed Caribbean cruise for a week. The trip will include a stops in Aruba, Barbados, Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, and Martinique.

Rooney paid for the luxury vacation as a special present for Kai and Rosie, Coleen's disabled sister. Also, he wants to make up with Coleen's family for hurting them in the past. However, the footballer is not able to join them since he has match schedules with Manchester until one week ahead.

 Coleen was seen carrying Buzz lightyear toy in Kai's stroller. Could it be Kai's christmas present ? Cute....

Lionel Messi Closed year 2010 With 62 Goals

Barcelona's top scorer Leo Messi spends his christmas holiday at his home town, Rosario Argentina. This year, Messi succeeded in collecting 62 goals in 67 matches, and he considered that year 2010 is the best year since he joins Barcelona.

With his hard work, Pep allows him to have an extended holiday, and he is about to spends holiday until January. 

27 December 1915 - They Probably Got Coal In Their Stockings, Too

On 27 December 1915, the FA issued lifetime bans against seven Manchester United and Liverpool players for participating in a match-fixing scheme the previous season.

The match in question was played on 2 April 1915, near the end of the season. United were in 18th place, only one point clear of relegation, while Liverpool were sitting comfortably in 13th, not in danger of relegation, but out of contention for any silverware. United won 2-0, thanks in part to a missed Liverpool penalty.

Rumors swirled immediately about a fix, prompting the FA to investigate. They determined that seven players--Sandy Turnbull (pictured), Arthur Whalley, and Enoch West from United; Jackie Sheldon, Tom Miller, Bob Pursell, and Tom Fairfoul from Liverpool--had colluded to determine the outcome. The motivation appeared to be financial, with all seven players placing bets on United to win. But the two points helped United's survival, as they finished 1 point above the relegation zone. West vehemently denied any involvement, even suing the FA--unsuccessfully-for libel.

All seven participants received lifetime bans, though all but West's were eventually lifted in 1919 in recognition of their service during World War I. In Turnbull's case, the reprieve was posthumous, as he died in action.

26 December 1979 - The Boxing Day Massacre

On 26 December 1979, Sheffield Wednesday delivered a 4-0 beatdown on rivals Sheffield United in a match that would come to be known as the Boxing Day Massacre.

The rivalry, known as the Steel City Derby, dates back to 1890 and is one of the most competitive derbies in England. At present, out of 125 competitive matches, United have a slight edge with 45 wins to Wednesday's 41.

A Third Division record 49,309 people packed the terraces at Hillsborough as the Owls, then in 5th place, hosted first-place United. The home supporters did not need to wait long before celebrating, as left winger Terry Curran, then in his first season with Wednesday, fired the ball into the net from 25 yards out. The Blades had several chances to equalize before the break, but Wednesday keeper Bob Bolder steadfastly denied them.

United's day took a turn for the worse when their captain Mick Speight left in the 54th minute after a goalmouth collision left him with injured ribs. Wednesday right winger Terry Curran, also in his first season at Hillsborough, made the best of the advantage by doubling the advantage with a well-placed header. He then provided an assist for the Owls' third goal, scored by Jeff King, then drew the 87th-minute penalty that was converted by Mark Smith to cap the rout.

The match proved to be a turning point for both clubs, as Wednesday proceeded to climb the table and gain promotion to Division Two for the 1980-81 season. United, meanwhile, finished in 12th place and were relegated the following season.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Girlfriend Irina Exotic Vacation (24 Dec 2010)

Cristiano Ronaldo spends his holiday with girlfriend Irina Shayk in the most exotic resorts in Maldives. This is the perfect place for a hideout since the island is hidden from the outside world.

This year, it looks like Cris prefer to spend Christmas with Irina instead of his family and son. The couple arrived at Maldives on 24th December on a private jet, and used a sea plane for 30 minutes to finally reach the island in Faafu Atoll. The price ?? Surely Cristiano can afford that, after all, it's just $66,500/week.

Ronaldo have 1 week for holiday,and he is expected to be back in training with the squad at 29 December 2010.

SHORT VIDEO


View also :

HOT PICTURES : Cristiano Ronaldo and Irina at Maldives

25 December 1944 - Jairzinho Takes Wing

On 25 December 1944, future World Cup star Jairzinho was born in Rio de Janeiro. He helped lead Brazil to World Cup victory in 1970, becoming only the third person in history to score in every one of his team's matches in the tournament.

He spent the majority of his career with his hometown club, Botafogo, first joining their youth team, then playing in the first team from 1959 to 1974. There, paired with his idol Garrincha, he won the 1964 Rio State Championship. After Garrincha left in 1965, Jairzinho took his place, moving from the left wing to his preferred position on the right, where he excelled, winning numerous trophies with Botafogo.

Jairzinho joined the national team in 1964. After a disappointing first-round exit in the 1966 World Cup, he got off to a roaring start in 1970, scoring twice in Brazil's 4-1 opening win against Czechoslovakia. He proceeded to score in every match as Brazil won the tournament, joining Uruguay's Alcides Ghiggia (1950) and France's Just Fontaine (1958) as the only players to score in every match for their country in a World Cup.

He left Botafogo in 1974 for a short stay with Marseille, starting a journey that included stints at a number of clubs, including a second term at Botafogo from 1981-82. He retired in 1983 after a brief period with 9 de Octubre in Ecuador.

Morata Received A Signed Ball From Team-mates For His Debut

Morata, the newbie from Real Madrid academy was almost scored in Levante's match, yet he managed to keep the ball from the match, which got signed by all his Real Madrid team-mates.

Morata is considered lucky to make a debut with an impressive 8-0 result.

"I am very happy because we earned a great victory and made the knockout stage easier for ourselves."

"I was a bit disappointed because I really wanted to score my first goal with the team."

To congratulate him for his debut, the squad signed the ball of the match, and gave it to him. Cristiano wrote " Don't worry, you will score many more goals."

 "It was an incredible gesture from all of them."

"It was amazing to hear the Bernabeu chant my name. Several Castilla players have made their first team debut this season and it's great that people support us. I am a Real Madrid Castilla player and my only objective is to make good use of all the chances I get."

This is a great step from Mourinho to play the Castilla player, instead of buying an expensive players from other club..

24 December 1898 - Everybody's High Is Somebody Else's Low

On 24 December 1898, Rangers recorded their record victory, beating Hibernian 10-0 at Ibrox. It is also Hibernian's worst-ever defeat.

The victory was no surprise--it was Rangers' 15th match of the season and they had won their previous 14--but the margin was unexpected. Hibs were just behind Rangers in second place and had only narrowly lost to them by the score of 3-4 in their meeting the previous month. The signs were there, however, as Rangers' last three matches included two routs of similar proportion, an 8-0 victory over Clyde in week 12 and a 7-0 win over Dundee in week 14.

After beating Hibs, Rangers went on to win their last three matches over St. Mirren (3-2), Celtic (4-1), and Clyde (3-0) to complete a perfect league season and win their second of their record 53 league titles.

Luis Figo Beat Iker Casillas Team 5-4 in Partido por la Ilusion (23 December 2010)

Partido por la Ilusion was attended by more than 6,000 people, last night. Adult and children who watched the charity match were enjoying their moments to see many legendary players together. The team was devided into 2, Team Iker and Team Figo.

Casillas Team : Casillas, Hierro, Karembeu, Busquets, Guti, Lamouchi, Osvaldo –starting seven–. Celades and Tissote also played.
Coach : Luis Aragones

Figo's Team : Cristian Alvarez, Couto, Sanchis, Miguel Torres, Granero, Figo, Zidane –starting seven–. Butragueño, Futre and Sa Pinto also played.
Coach : Michel

Goals Report
0-1: Butragueño (14’).
1-1: Osvaldo (17’).
2-1: Guti (19’).
3-1: Guti (39’).
3-2: Granero (40’).
3-3: Futre (42’).
3-4: Figo (47’).
4-4: Osvaldo (49’).
4-5: Granero (50’).

Referee: Muñiz Fernandez

It was great to see all the professional footballers, and the legends, entertained the audience with their performance on the pitch, and all for good cause. Too bad Casillas didn't ask Cristiano to joined the event, otherwise, the ticket will be sold out for sure...

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid's Christmas Wishes - VIDEO

All Real Madrid players gathered together to wished Merry Christmas for the fans. We are hoping to see videos just like last year, but nothing yet. This year, Cristiano paired with Marcelo, his new bestie, for Christmas pictures. Just like last year, the players have taken their pictures in duet.

Kaka was paired with Arbeloa, Sergio with Iker, Ozil with his German partner, Khedira, Higuain also with his national team mate, Garay, and ALonso with Granero.

Here are the wishes from the players.....

Cristiano Ronaldo
"I wish all Madridistas have a happy New Year. I wish us to be very successful in 2011."

Kaka
"I wish you all a very happy holiday season."

Marcelo
"Let 2011 be better than 2010."

Higuain
"Merry Christmas to all and happy New Year. I hope 2011 is better than 2010 for all Madridistas."

Garay
"We all hope you have a happy holiday season with your families. Happy New Year."


Lass and Benzema
"Merry Christmas to all Madridistas around the world. We wish you health."

Albiol
"I hope you all spend happy holidays with your families and that you enjoy a successful 2011."

Xabi Alonso
"We wish you a merry Christmas and we hope all is well with you."


Arbeloa
"Happy New Year to all."


Granero
"Happy holidays. I hope 2011 is a more productive year for all of you."


Adan and Mateos
"We wish all Madridistas to have a happy holiday season and for 2011 to be a very succesful year. Enjoy spending time with your families."

Carvalho
"Merry Christmas to all. I hope health rains all over in 2011."

Khedira and Ozil
"Merry Christmas and happy New Year."


Canales
"I hope 2011 is plagued by success and that you enjoy it with your families."

Pedro Leon
"Happy holidays to all Madridistas. I hope 2011 is filled of success."

Merry Christmas to all of you......

THE VIDEO IS HERE !!

10 List of Real Madrid's Celebrity Fans

As we know, Real Madrid is a very much famous football club, not just in Europe, but also world wide. But do you know which celebrity that becomes the fans of the Whites Club ? If you don't know, but like to know , just check out the 10 Real Madrid's Celebrity fans.

RUSSEL CROWE

This actor has visited Real Madrid base camp in Santiago Bernabeu April this year, where he received a signed jersey from his favorite team.

RAFAEL NADAL

The famous tennis player is definitely a Real Madrid fans, since he also friends with some of the players, like Kaka, Casillas, and Ronaldo.

USAIN BOLT

No doubt Cristiano Ronaldo is the star of Real Madrid . Everybody wants a piece of him, including Usain Bolt, the olympic sprinter. Even when Ronaldo was still in ManUtd, Usain already admires him. And with his moved to Real Madrid, Usain also landed his feet on the Spanish team.

TOM CRUISE

Tom Cruise is a friend of former Real Madrid player, David Beckham. But that has nothing to do with his loyalty to the Whites squad.

PENELOPE CRUZ

The  Spanish beauty is known as a Real Madrid fan. Afterall, she was Mr.Cruise ex-girlfriend, so it's not surprise to see them sharing the same interest.

ANTONIO BANDERAS

Having to ended his dream as a professional footballer for broken his foot has made him a famous actor. The handsome Spanish teenage boy had to move to Madrid, and became Real Madrid fans ever since. Now he is a famous hollywood actor, but he always been a passionate soccer fan and a staunch supporter of the Real Madrid Football Club.

JULIO IGLESIAS

The world famous latin singer was born in Madrid. He joined Real Madrid Junior Team in the 60's, and has been a loyal fan 'til now.

VIGO MORTENSEN

Who doesn't know Vigo, as Aragorn in Lord of the ring. The 52 years old actor has admitted that he is a fan of Real Madrid, and has been watching the match for several times.

DIEGO MARADONA

The former Barcelona player and Argentina coach was all over Messi, when he still coached the 2009 FIFA best footballer. But on November this year, Maradona visited Santiago Bernabeu, and has expressed his admiration with Mourinho and the squad, and believes that Real Madrid will be the winner in football competition. So he must've changes side, right ?

ROBBIE WILLIAM

Robbie William also mentioned to be one of Real Madrid loyal fan. He has been spotted couple of times, wearing Real Madrid jersey.

Well that's all the list of 10 Real Madrid Celebrity fans. If you know more famous Real Madrid fans, just feel free to leave a comment here.