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Player Performance
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Articles tagged “Player Performance”

Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz struggled to make an impact against Paris Saint-Germain and has not registered any goals or assists against marquee opponents since his move

Following Barcelona’s Champions League elimination, Marcus Rashford was chastised by the Spanish media, leaving his future in Spain in doubt. The Manchester United academy product joined the Blaugrana on loan last summer, with an option to buy for £26 million. DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – […] The post “He lacks the character” – Man Utd star facing uncertain future after ‘lacklustre’ display appeared first on Stretty News.


Inter Milan secured their second consecutive Serie A win last Sunday, pulling off a stunning comeback at Como. According to Corriere dello Sport via FCInterNews, the Nerazzurri defied the absence of their captain, Lautaro Martinez, to extend their lead at the top of the table. Cristian Chivu’s men have developed a habit of underperforming when […] The post Como 3-4 Inter Milan – Four Nerazzurri Stalwarts Step Up In Lautaro Martinez Absence appeared first on SempreInter.com.


By: Oliver Fisher Massimiliano Allegri will once again change formation for the game in Hellas Verona, but one thing will remain: Rafael Leao as a striker. As La Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) write this morning, Milan’s assault on the Champions League begins with Leo. Despite the loud boos at San Siro and the return to a 3-5-2, […] The post GdS: ‘Everything at stake’ – why Allegri will continue using Leao as a striker appeared first on SempreMilan.

La Gazzetta dello Sport Chivu power More weight on the transfer market after the Scudetto ...

Christian Pulisic finds himself under the spotlight as Massimiliano Allegri’s influence in Italian soccer continues to grow amid rising speculation about a potential Italy national team appointment, with the situation at Milan becoming increasingly tense. Christian Pulisic finds himself under the spotlight as Massimiliano Allegri’s influence in Italian soccer continues to grow amid rising speculation about a potential Italy national team appointment, with the situation at Milan becoming increasingly tense. At the same time, Allegri’s future is being shaped by internal expectations at the club, while discussions about what he demands to remain in charge continue to circulate behind the scenes. According to multiple reports in Italy, Allegri has emerged as a leading candidate to take over the national team should Giovanni Malago secure the presidency of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). This scenario has gained traction quickly, especially after strong backing from Serie A clubs ahead of the upcoming election. The situation is fluid, but “Allegri will become the favorite to become the next Italy national team head coach if the former CONI President is elected”, Calciomercato’s Daniele Longo revealed on X (formerly Twitter). That possibility has placed Milan in a delicate position, with its current manager suddenly at the center of a national rebuild. What are Allegri’s reported demands to stay? The uncertainty surrounding Allegri’s future is tied closely to his expectations from the club. At Milan, his position is far from settled. The club has suffered a dip in form in Serie A, with two consecutive defeats raising concerns about Champions League qualification and long-term direction. This has created friction between coaching expectations and transfer planning. The coach is frustrated with the recruitment strategy, particularly the lack of defensive reinforcements and inconsistency in squad depth, La Gazzetta dello Sport adds. One internal concern is that the hierarchy’s inability to strengthen key areas has directly affected performance levels and tactical flexibility. AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri looks on The tension has also created a scenario where the 58-year-old boss’ future depends heavily on guarantees. As outlined in La Gazzetta dello Sport’s report, he is expected to demand greater decision-making power over transfers if he remains beyond the season, especially if the club secures a top-four finish. Allegri’s ‘what if’ clause and how his possible exit route could affect Pulisic The situation has reached a point where multiple outcomes are being considered inside the club. Allegri’s contract could extend under normal conditions, but that extension is reportedly tied to performance and alignment with management expectations. If disagreements over transfer policy continue, a potential separation between Allegri and Milan cannot be ruled out, particularly if a national team offer becomes concrete. Italy’s interest adds another layer, giving him an alternative path that avoids the day-to-day pressure of club action. Christian Pulisic of AC Milan This uncertainty inevitably affects players like Christian Pulisic, who has become an important figure in Milan’s attacking setup since moving to the San Siro in 2023. However, his recent form has reflected the wider inconsistency of the team, with 2026 goalscoring output fluctuating as the club struggles to maintain rhythm in front of goal. Within the squad, questions are being asked about attacking balance, chance creation, and finishing efficiency. A coaching change or tactical reset could directly influence Pulisic’s role and output, especially if Allegri’s system evolves or if a new manager arrives with different ideas.

Al-Nassr stands in a commanding position compared to Karim Benzema's Al-Hilal, but the final steps toward glory still demand precision and consistency. The pressure is building around Cristiano Ronaldo as the Saudi Pro League season approaches its decisive stretch, with the title race entering a critical phase. Al-Nassr stands in a commanding position compared to Karim Benzema’s Al-Hilal, but the final steps toward glory still demand precision and consistency. The club has placed itself at the summit of the table after a dominant campaign, showing authority in both attack and results. The margin at the top provides confidence, yet the title is not secured, and every remaining match carries weight. From the opening months, Jorge Jesus’ side has established itself as the most consistent side in the league. With 73 points from 28 matches, the Knight of Najd leads the standings with a five-point cushion over Al-Hilal and a further seven-point gap to Al-Ahli, placing it firmly in control. The numbers highlight a campaign driven by attacking firepower and resilience. A record of 24 wins and a goal difference of +57 underlines the club’s dominance, making it the benchmark for the rest of the league. However, dominance alone does not guarantee silverware, especially with six matches still to play. Saudi Pro League standings after Matchday 28 What it will take for Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr to become champion The key figure in this title race is 87 points. That number represents the maximum total Al-Hilal can reach if it wins all six of its remaining matches (68 + 18 = 86). Therefore, for Al-Nassr to guarantee the title regardless of other results, it must surpass that total. Currently, Al-Nassr needs 14 points from its remaining six matches to mathematically secure the title, a total that would take it beyond the maximum possible tally of its closest rival. This would take the team to 87 points, making it unreachable. There are multiple ways to reach that number, each carrying its own level of risk: Five wins = 15 points (more than enough) Four wins and two draws = 14 points Four wins, one draw, and one loss = 13 points (not guaranteed) Anything less than 14 points opens the door for Al-Hilal to potentially overtake Cristiano Ronaldo’s side. The road to the title is far from straightforward, with several challenging fixtures ahead. Matches against teams like Al-Ettifaq, Al-Ahli, Al-Qadsiah, and a crucial showdown with Karim Benzema‘s side will test the club’s resolve. ristiano Ronaldo of team Al Nassr FC celebrates scoring Three different scenarios Scenario 1: Al-Nassr takes care of business If Jorge Jesus’ players win at least five of their last six matches, the title is theirs; simple as that. Even four wins and two draws would be enough. Given their current form, 24 wins in 28 matches and a +57 goal difference, this is a very realistic outcome. Scenario 2: Slips open the door If Al-Nassr drops points, especially through defeats, the pressure shifts. For example, if it collects 12-13 points, it could finish on 85-86 points. That would allow Al-Hilal to catch or surpass it if the latter wins all remaining matches. In this case, goal difference could even come into play, although Al-Nassr currently has a strong edge. Karim Benzema of Al Hilal looks on. Scenario 3: Rivals drop points Al-Nassr may not even need the full 14 points if the club’s two rivals stumble. If Al-Hilal loses or draws even once, its maximum total drops below 86. That reduces the number of points Al-Nassr need to secure the title. For instance, if Al-Hilal drops three points (one loss), its maximum becomes 83. Al-Nassr would then only need 11 more points to guarantee first place. The same applies to Al-Ahli, who are slightly further back but still mathematically in the race.

Did Arne Slot let Liverpool down as the Premier League champions were knocked out by PSG at Anfield? Or did the Reds show positive signs for the future with a much more energetic and competitive performance than in last week’s first leg in Paris? Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock, ex-Premier League winger Andros Townsend and French football journalist Julien Laurens join Ian Dennis and Kelly Cates to dissect a thrilling night of Champions League action. As well as Liverpool’s 2-0 defeat to PSG (4-0 on aggregate), Atletico Madrid progressed with a memorable victory over Barcelona, 3-2 on aggregate. Atleti will now play the winner of Arsenal v Sporting, with the panel previewing Wednesday night’s game alongside commentator John Murray. And we hear reaction from England Lionesses’ 1-0 victory over Spain. Timecodes: 02:20 Where has this Liverpool energy been all season? 03:20 Was this about PSG’s individual quality? 04:14 Julien Laurens calls Arne Slot’s line-up a “complete nonsense” — should Alexander Isak have started? 07:45 Are Liverpool carrying players in their team? How much has their recruitment been proven wrong? 15:00 Hugo Ekitike’s injury 16:00 How are Liverpool looking going into the Merseyside derby? 17:30 Should Isak be getting a run of games now? 18:45 Reaction from Liverpool manager Arne Slot 20:15 A thrilling win for Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona 21:20 How worried would Arsenal be to play Atleti? 23:00 How much of a difference did red cards make for Barcelona? 24:45 Mikel Arteta previews Arsenal v Sporting and asks for ‘fire, not fear' 26:10 Preview of Arsenal v Sporting with commentator John Murray 30:40 Keira Walsh reacts to her 100th England cap as the Lionesses beat Spain 31:40 Lionesses boss Sarina Wiegman reacts

Il club catalano e Lamine Yamal non riescono a far sognare la vittoria della Champions ai propri tifosi anche in questa stagione. E la sconfitta con l'Atletico evidenza errori che si ripetono nel tempo.

Alexander Isak back in the Liverpool team for the first time since his injury and some bizarre Arne Slot comments after revealing his team to play PSG. Liverpool 2-0 down... You can click here to read the full article.

Il Milan sta vivendo un periodo di grande crisi sia di risultati, che all'interno dello spogliato e anche nel rapporto coi tifosi. La sconfitta contro l'Udinese ha aperto uno squarcio importante e nella voragine ci è finito inevitabilmente Rafael Leao, uscito dal campo nel secondo tempo nella gara persa 3-0 a San Siro e subissato di fischi. Per commentare il momento no della squadra di Massimiliano Allegri e per capire provare a ricucire il rapporto con la tifoseria rossonera, ha parlato alla Gazzetta dello Sport l'ex terzino brasiliano Serginho. IL MILAN FATICA QUANDO DEVE FARE GIOCO "Cos'è successo con l'Udinese? Niente di così strano e anomalo. In questa stagione la squadra ha fatto molto bene contro le grandi, ma ha sofferto parecchio contro le medio piccole. Quando il Milan deve proporre gioco, va più in difficoltà: a San Siro era successo anche con il Parma". POSTO CHAMPIONS? IL MILAN SI DEVE PREOCCUPARE SOLO... DEL MILAN "Non mi preoccupo delle squadre che sono dietro, ma del Milan: se gioca con la personalità che ha mostrato nel derby e in tante altre partite, non mi preoccupo per l’ingresso nelle prime quattro. Penso che la classifica avrebbe potuto essere ancora migliore rispetto all’attuale se non ci fossero stati dei passi falsi evitabili. Non guardo il calendario: per me la squadra ha le potenzialità per chiudere al secondo o al terzo posto se torna a mostrare l’equilibrio e la concretezza che le hanno permesso di stare ventiquattro partite di campionato senza perdere". LA JUVE "Col Verona mi aspetto un Milan arrabbiato e concentrato al massimo. Si tratta di una gara da non sbagliare assolutamente perché poi arriverà a San Siro la Juventus. L’incontro con la Juventus sarà assolutamente determinante. In caso di vittoria contro i bianconeri, l’obiettivo sarebbe praticamente raggiunto LEAO? UN GOAL ALLA JUVE E TORNA IL SERENO "Leao e Pulisic sono due esterni offensivi e non hanno le caratteristiche per giocare spalle alla porta: hanno bisogno di spazi per giocare l’uno contro uno, per crossare o per arrivare alla conclusione. Soprattutto Leao se non ha la possibilità di ripartire a sinistra, è penalizzato. Si è sacrificato a fare il centravanti e in alcuni incontri ha fatto bene e segnato, ma non è il suo ruolo naturale. I fischi? San Siro è uno stadio esigente che in passato lo ha applaudito tante volte quando ha segnato e offerto prestazioni importanti. Diciamo che nell’ultima stagione e mezzo non sempre Leao è riuscito a esprimere le sue grandi potenzialità. Magari i fischi di sabato per Leao saranno uno stimolo in più per dimostrare quello che vale in questo finale di stagione. A volte basta un gol per riaccendere l’amore. Per esempio se segnasse la rete decisiva per battere la Juventus...".

By: Oliver Fisher It was not a good Saturday evening for AC Milan against Udinese, continuing a negative trend since the defeat to Parma. The numbers tell a story: Milan have gone from having the chance to be within striking distance of league-leaders Inter to now being 12 points behind them. Not only that, but they have handed […] The post Leao jeered as Milan’s mental decline continues: Lorenzo and Stefano question what comes next appeared first on SempreMilan.

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse are back with a new episode of State of the Union! The show starts with the breaking news that U.S. Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker is leaving his current post to move to work with the Saudi Arabian football federation. Alexi and Mosse break down the implications of this as we rapidly approach the World Cup before moving on to U.S. Abroad where Flo Balogun and Ricardo Pepi found the back of the net for Monaco and PSV. Weston McKennie was suspended due to yellow card accumulation and Christian Pulisic’s scoring drought reached 16 games for club and country. Next, Alexi and Mosse preview the midweek quarterfinals in both the Champions League where Real Madrid and Barcelona are looking for 2nd leg turnarounds and the CONCACAF Champions Cup where LAFC is the only MLS side to take a lead into the 2nd leg. The pair roundup the weekend action from MLS before getting into the most difficult groups in the coming World Cup in #AskAlexi. Finally, in One for the Road, Alexi discusses the Americanization of soccer and what is the American soccer identity is. Presented by Zillow #zillow Chapters: (0:00) Intro (1:39) U.S. Sporting Director Matt Crocker leaves for Saudi Arabia (4:46) U.S. Abroad: Pulisic slump, Balogun & Pepi score (10:23) Emma Hayes as USMNT coach? (21:53) MLS Recap: Sebastian Berhalter bags another assist (25:49) #AskAlexi: Group of Death Rankings (36:27) One For The Road: American Soccer Identity #StateOfTheUnion #Soccer #Pulisic Subscribe to get the latest from Alexi Lalas' State of the Union: http://sprtspod.fox/SUBSCRIBEtoSOTU Listen to Alexi Lalas' State of the Union on Apple Podcasts: http://sprtspod.fox/sotu Follow SOTU on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SOTUWithAlexi Follow SOTU on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sotuwithalexi/ Follow SOTU on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sotuwithalexi Like SOTU on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SOTUWithAlexi About Alexi Lalas' State of the Union Podcast: U.S. Soccer legend Alexi Lalas discusses the biggest stories in the world of soccer from an American perspective. Join Alexi and soccer guru David Mosse, as they break down the USMNT, USWNT, MLS, Bundesliga, Premier League, World Cup & everything in between. BREAKING NEWS: U.S. Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker heads to Saudi Arabia, Pulisic slump www.youtube.com/@StateOfTheUnion

It took until halfway through the January transfer window for AS Roma to finally get the striker they had wanted. In the winter window, Roma were linked with Joshua Zirkzee and Giacomo Raspadori, the latter rejected Roma to go and join Atalanta after a short spell in Spain at Atletico Madrid. Zirkzee stayed at Manchester… The post Donyell Malen: Have Roma Finally Found Their Striker? first appeared on Breaking The Lines.

Michael Carrick has defended the form of Manuel Ugarte after Gary Neville said the midfielder has been 'well short' ever since he joined Manchester United.

By: Oliver Fisher Serginho is confident that Massimiliano Allegri will get AC Milan over the line in the top four race, despite a recent wobble. The past few weeks have not gone the way that Allegri nor Milan planned. From being in title contention – albeit faint – the Rossoneri have lost four of their last seven games […] The post Serginho discusses Milan’s poor form, Leao’s role and why he still believes in Allegri appeared first on SempreMilan.

Only one Manchester United player made BBC Sport’s Team of the Week following last night’s disastrous defeat to Leeds United. Despite Bruno Fernandes doing his utmost to pull the strings, it was United’s only goalscorer on the night, Casemiro, who made Troy Deeney’s selection. DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES […] The post Not Bruno: One Red makes BBC TOTW after Leeds loss, Deeney knows why he’s the only one to excel appeared first on Stretty News.

Jamie Carragher fears Arsenal's brittle confidence is encapsulated by the form of midfielder Martin Zubimendi who he claims is 'really struggling'.

Ghana international Felix Afena-Gyan provided a vital assist for Amedspor in their comeback stalemate against Ümraniyespor in the Turkish Ligue 1.The 23-year-old forward came off the bench as his side played out a 2-2 stalemate in their week 35 fixture, held at the Diyarbakır Stadyumu on Monday night. Introduced in the 60th minute, Afena-Gyan quickly made his presence felt, playing a decisive role in rescuing a point for his team.With Amedspor trailing on home soil, the former AS Roma youngster stepped up when it mattered most, setting up Mbaye Diagne deep into stoppage time to fire home the crucial equalizer.The visitors had earlier taken the lead through Batuhan Çelik in the 22nd minute, but Mehmet Yeşil responded just six minutes later to level matters for the hosts, ensuring both sides went into the break tied at 1-1.After halftime, Ümraniyespor regained their advantage through Albanian international Jurgen Bardhi in the 69th minute, putting them on course for all three points.However, Amedspor had the final say, with Afena-Gyan’s late assist sparking celebrations as the home side snatched a valuable draw in stoppage time.The Black Stars attacker, who has earned eight caps for Ghana, is proving to...

Newcastle United players and staff ended up being booed off after throwing their lead away in a 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace on Sunday. William Osula had put Newcastle just before half time, but then Jean-Philippe Mateta came off the bench and levelled in 80th minute with header from Tyrick Mitchell’s cross, before grabbing a […] The post Newcastle players and staff booed off after throwing lead away in defeat to Crystal Palace appeared first on Fan Banter.

Ghana international Inaki Williams, has admitted he has had a challenging season in the current football campaign.Williams was in action at the weekend when his outfit succumbed to a 2-1 defeat to Villarreal at the San Mames.The Black Stars attacker, who is the captain of Athletic Bilbao has struggled to match last season’s performance, where he racked up eleven goals and provided nine assists across competitions.This season, the 31-year-old has had a modest performance due to injury setbacks. Out of 32 appearances across competitions for Athletic Bilbao, Williams has scored three goals and providing four assists.Williams, who has built a reputation as one of the most consistent players in Spain has, however, expressed his frustration, having struggled to live up to expectations this season.Speaking after Villarreal clash, the experienced attacker admitted he is currently far from his best form.“Honestly, I’m not feeling well. I’m trying to be the Iñaki that everyone knows,” he admitted, highlighting his determination to rediscover the level that has defined his career.Despite the dip, the former Spain international remains focused on turning things around as the season nears an end.For Athletic Club, rediscovering the best version of Williams...

Gary Neville argues that Manchester United are better off without Benjamin Sesko in their starting lineup, as he assesses the team’s latest display. The Red Devils ended their 24-day hiatus by hosting Leeds United at Old Trafford on Monday evening. However, the excitement evaporated only a few minutes after the kickoff, when Noah Okafor gave […] The post “Awkward, clumsy” – Neville tells Carrick to relegate 6/10 Man Utd to bench role appeared first on Stretty News.

Happy Tuesday folks. I’m sitting here this morning wishing I could write something that has the answers. You know the ones I mean. Not how did we get here; not the meaning of life; not ‘how can the universe be infinite?’; not why are Maroon5 still around; nothing as trivial as that. But – what […] The post I started writing then stopped appeared first on Arseblog ... an Arsenal blog.

Paul Scholes fears there is no way back for Arsenal in the Premier League title race and is confident Manchester City will have their measure in Sunday's top of the table clash.
Real Madrid were booed off at the Bernabéu on Friday night, and not for the first time this season, after they failed to beat Girona in a 1-1 draw. Gary and Alex look at what this latest setback means for Alvaro Arbeloa's chances of remaining in charge next season, and whether they have any hope of going to Munich and overturning the 2-1 deficit against Bayern. Barcelona went nine points clear at the top after a 4-1 win over Espanyol, with Hansi Flick taking no chances and playing Lamine Yamal and Pedri for 90 minutes despite the Champions League second leg with Atletico Madrid to come in the week. Will Barca have enough firepower to score the three they need or will that leaky defence prove costly in the Metropolitano? Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com. https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MANUEL UGARTE's horror run continued as his 'curse' cost Michael Carrick valuable points at home to Leeds. The midfielder started his first match under the interim boss at Old Trafford in Monday's surprise 2-1 defeat. Missing Kobbie Mainoo, Carrick turned to out-of-favour Ugarte, 25, who is now a prime candidate to leave the club over...

Liverpool facing major questions over star’s recent performances Concerns around Cody Gakpo continue to surface following Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Fulham, with the Anfield Index Media Matters podcast offering a measured but revealing discussion. Featuring Dave Davis and David Lynch, the analysis balanced Liverpool’s improved result with ongoing concerns about individual form, particularly in attack. […] The post David Lynch: Liverpool star’s form has ‘fallen off a cliff’ recently appeared first on anfieldindex.com.

'If they slip up here, they'll never forgive themselves.'

By: Ben Dixon This afternoon, a stat has emerged about Matteo Gabbia and how much AC Milan actually rely on the defender’s performances. There has been a lot said about Milan’s talismen this season and the focus has often been on Adrien Rabiot and rightfully so. For most of the season, the stats have pointed in his favour […] The post MN: Milan’s hidden backbone – Gabbia essential to the backline as stat emerges appeared first on SempreMilan.

By: Oliver Fisher AC Milan have failed to score in four of their last seven games, with the attacking department failing to pull its weight. As Corriere dello Sport (via MilanPress) report this morning, Massimiliano Allegri’s side have been in an obvious attacking crisis for some time, culminating in the heavy defeat against Udinese on Saturday evening at […] The post CorSport: Seven goals less than expected – Milan’s attacking issues exposed by key metric appeared first on SempreMilan.

Rafael Leao finds himself in the eye of the storm again, as he had a paltry performance against Udinese, despite a long clamored tactical switch, and the Milan crowd heavily booed when he left the pitch. His relationship with the fans has had its ups and downs over the years. The post Milan Star Leao in Hot Water Again After Udinese Clash appeared first on The Cult of Calcio.

Against Chelsea, the France playmaker produced another two assists, taking him to 10 for the season

By: Isak Möller It ended up being a very tough Saturday evening to swallow for AC Milan and the fans, as Udinese scored three goals and also clinched all three points. Milan headed into the clash with a willingness to bounce back from the Napoli defeat on Easter Monday. However, it’s possible that this was just the vibe […] The post AC Milan 0-3 Udinese: Five things we learned – Leao’s new low and UCL at risk appeared first on SempreMilan.

By: Isak Möller This could be the final season for Rafael Leao with the AC Milan shirt, as pointed out by Luca Bianchin, with a sale more realistic now than it has ever been. Last night’s display against Udinese was the straw that broke the camel’s back for many. The No.10 not only struggled to find the back […] The post Bianchin: Answering four key questions about Leao – price tag, next club and more appeared first on SempreMilan.

'It is a ridiculous comment to make.'

Sandra Herrera, along with McCall Zerboni and Jordan Angeli, are live after the USWNT's match against Japan, the first of three games in this friendly window. Who stood out in the match? What can the USWNT build on from this friendly? What did Emma Hayes learn about her squad? Find out on the latest episode of Attacking Third! 00:00 - USWNT vs Japan reaction show 06:20 - Immediate reactions to the Japan game 08:46 - USWNT lineup - Sophia Wilson starts for USWNT 15:30 - USWNT score first from Rose Lavalle's goal 19:11 - Lindsay Heaps scores the second for USWNT 30:38 - Stand out performances for the USWNT 46:40 - What do we want to see in Game 2 vs Japan Watch USWNT and NWSL games on P+" with a link to https://www.paramountplus.com/home/ Attacking Third is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher and wherever else you listen to podcasts. Follow the Attacking Third team on Twitter: @AttackingThird, @LisaCarlin32, @SandHerrera_, @Darian_Jenks, and @CCupo. Visit the Attacking Third YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wgolazo You can listen to Attacking Third on your smart speakers! Simply say "Alexa, play the latest episode of the Attacking Third podcast" o r "Hey Google, play the latest episode of the Attacking Third podcast." For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

No Harry Kane, no problem. The English superstar was an unused substitute as Bayern Munich thrashed St Pauli 5-0 on Saturday. Jamal Musiala opened the scoring for the Bavarian giants in the ninth m…

Mikel Arteta has been urged to drop Gabriel Martinelli and give Max Dowman more starts after Arsenal's disappointing 2-1 loss to Bournemouth.

Christian Pulisic's status at Milan has come under renewed scrutiny as Massimiliano Allegri begins shaping his vision for the seasons ahead, with potential arrivals like Robert Lewandowski and Leon Goretzka already entering the conversation. Christian Pulisic‘s status at Milan has come under renewed scrutiny as Massimiliano Allegri begins shaping his vision for the seasons ahead, with potential arrivals like Robert Lewandowski and Leon Goretzka already entering the conversation. Christian Pulisic finds himself at the center of a shifting project, one that could redefine his role within the club. The Rossoneri enter another decisive summer with clear priorities, as Allegri looks to reshape the attacking structure while maintaining defensive stability. The club has improved at the back, but its offensive output has often fallen short of expectations. This imbalance has forced the management to explore high-profile reinforcements, with Lewandowski emerging as a leading candidate to transform the attack. At the same time, the coach has already identified a core group of ten players who will form the backbone of the 2026-27 project. These include key figures across the pitch, from leadership in goal to reliability in defense and consistency in midfield. The idea is to build continuity while selectively upgrading areas that have underperformed. The club’s immediate future hinges heavily on qualification for the UEFA Champions League. Allegri has repeatedly emphasized its importance, not only for prestige but also for financial stability. Missing out on the competition could cost Milan an estimated $70-82 million, significantly impacting transfer plans and wage flexibility, as per La Gazzetta dello Sport. Christian Pulisic of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 This financial reality directly affects potential arrivals like Lewandowski and Goretzka. Top players are far more likely to join a club competing at the highest European level, and without that platform, Milan risks losing both targets and current stars. The domino effect could reshape the squad more dramatically than initially planned. Can Pulisic prove his value when it matters most? It is in this context that Christian Pulisic’s situation becomes particularly delicate. The American started the season strongly, scoring eight league goals between August and December, but his form has sharply declined in 2026, with no goals since the end of last year. This prolonged drought has raised concerns about his long-term role in the squad. Once seen as a key attacking pillar, Pulisic has struggled to maintain consistency, and injuries have further disrupted his rhythm. The current run of over 100 days without a goal has only intensified the pressure. Christian Pulisic of AC Milan looks on prior a Serie A match Yet, within this uncertainty lies opportunity. Upcoming matches present a chance for Pulisic to rediscover his scoring touch and remind the coaching staff of his value. A strong performance could shift the narrative, especially as Allegri evaluates who can be trusted in decisive moments. Does Pulisic belong in Allegri’s plans? Despite his struggles, the American star has not been excluded from Allegri’s plans, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports. The manager still considers him an important part of the attacking setup, particularly for his versatility and creativity. Even amid declining form, he remains Milan’s second-top scorer and is expected to feature prominently next season. The list of guaranteed players also includes names like Mike Maignan, Matteo Gabbia, and Adrien Rabiot, forming a spine of reliability across the team. Around them, Allegri aims to build a competitive unit capable of challenging domestically and in Europe. Pulisic’s inclusion suggests that the club still believes in his ability to contribute at a high level.

Martin Odegaard finds himself at a crossroads. Scratching for form, trying to reach full fitness and fend off a hungry Eberechi Eze who has returned to training ahead of schedule after suffering a calf injury.

Presenter Olivia Buzaglo has spoken out after Jean-Philippe Mateta was seen with his arm around her during a post-match interview. The Crystal Palace striker caused a stir on social media when he w…

By Martin Graham Thomas Tuchel may not have another England fixture until the summer, but events in Europe on Thursday would have been encouraging for him. The national side struggled to find the net without Harry Kane in recent friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, exposing the lack of reliable alternatives to the 32-year-old captain […]

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It's time for The Truth! Sam and Dougie are back together (although sadly not in the studio) to take a look at just how well things are going at Bayern Munich right now for Vincent Kompany (and company). After winning 2-1 at the Bernabeu to record their first away win against Real Madrid in 25 years, many people have them as the favourites to lift the Champions League title at the end of the season, and there's plenty of reasons to be positive around Bayern right now. The scintillating form of their front three - Luis Diaz, Harry Kane, and Michael Olise - has led to the trio scoring 87 goals between them this season already, and 52 assists for good measure. There's the age-defying quality of Manuel Neuer in goal, a formidable midfield spearheaded by veteran Joshua Kimmich and rising star Aleksandar Pavlovic, the introduction of Jonathan Tah has been a masterstroke in the middle of defence, and the pace of Alphonso Davies combining with the guile of Konrad Laimer at full back. To top all that off, there's a late-stage rejuvenated Serge Gnabry flying in the middle, the mind-bending talent of Jamal Musiala returning from injury, and the prodigious teenage sensation Lennart Karl popping up with crucial moments that have many in Germany arguing he should go to the World Cup with the National Team. So, right now, are there any weaknesses in this Bayern side? Can this growing team now match up to an Arsenal side that beat them in the League stage? And could PSG be the wildcard in the pack as they attempt to go back-to-back in the Champions League? As ever, The Truth is somewhere in the middle... And remember, if you’d like more from the Rank Squad, including extra podcasts every Monday and Friday (including our weekly Postbox taking a look at the whole weekend of football) and access to our brilliant Discord community, then why not join us here on Patreon? (http://patreon.com/ranksfc) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com (https://pcm.adswizz.com) for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Explore MFF’s detailed preview for Inter Miami vs New York RB in the Major League Soccer. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 00:30 BST match.Explore MFF’s detailed preview for Inter Miami vs New York RB in the Major League Soccer. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 00:30 BST match. Match Details Fixture: Inter […]

Gabby Agbonlahor has given a damning assessment of Liverpool’s current predicament after their latest defeat. The Reds were beaten 2-0 by Paris Saint-Germain in France on Wednesday night. Arn…

BARCELONA were well beaten but do not lack belief they can overturn Atletico Madrid to set up a potential semi-final with Arsenal. That belief will largely stem from the danger Marcus Rashford managed to pose alongside Lamine Yamal. For almost an hour against their Spanish rivals, in the second game of a ten-day trilogy against...

Ibrahima Konate has been called out by former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher, who has claimed the Frenchman makes mistakes every time he takes to the pitch in what has been a challenging season
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