Eddie Howe quashes top-four talk after 1-0 victory over Chelsea
NEWCASTLE: Eddie Howe is refusing to be drawn into the debate about whether European qualification beckons for his Newcastle United side.
Soccer Sport News
European wrap: Bayern and Napoli solidify top spots
Champions Bayern Munich eased past Schalke 04 2-0 to make sure of top spot going into the World Cup break as they hunt a record-extending 11th straight Bundesliga crown.
Newcastle continue winning run with win over Chelsea
NEWCASTLE: For the first time in 21 years Newcastle United find themselves in the top four of the Premier League at Christmas — and they ensured that statistic by out-classing, out-battling and out-scoring one of the so-called ‘big six’ elite. A solitary Joe Willock strike in the second-half was enough to ensure three points remained on Tyneside — and send Chelsea home empty-handed — taking Newcastle’s total to 30 from 15 games. Just two points separate United and Manchester City, Liverpool are eight behind the high-flying Magpies.
Bayern stretches Bundesliga lead ahead of World Cup break
GELSENKIRCHEN, Germany: With players keen to avoid injury risks ahead of the World Cup, Bayern Munich stretched their Bundesliga lead to six points after a 2-0 win over Schalke on Saturday in their last game before the tournament in Qatar. Bayern lacked some of their usual intensity as Julian Nagelmann’s team cruised to victory against last-place Schalke thanks to goals from Serge Gnabry and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting. Bayern were without Sadio Mané — because of a fibula injury which has made the Senegal forward a World Cup doubt — while Canada left back Alphonso Davies has a muscle issue and Nagelsmann opted not to risk Thomas Müller after the experienced German had a run of minor injuries.
Shadab Khan: Pakistan’s match-winner who brings ‘fire and life’
MELBOURNE: No matter what happens when Pakistan face England in Sunday’s final at the MCG, Shadab Khan has had a Twenty20 World Cup to remember.
Odegaard brace opens five-point lead at top for Arsenal
Arsenal sent out a title warning after Martin Odegaard's double sent them five points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Magpies soar to inflict third straight loss on Chelsea
Joe Willock ensured Newcastle will head into the World Cup break sitting proudly in the top three after beating Chelsea to claim a fifth-successive Premier League victory.
Conte tips captain Kane to take England all the way to World Cup glory
Antonio Conte heaped praise on Harry Kane for the important role he played in ensuring Tottenham finished the first half of the season in the Premier League top four and revealed he will be backing the England captain to go all the way in Qatar.