QATAR CREATE HISTORY WITH ASIAN CUP WIN

Qatar won their first ever Asian Cup after defeating Japan 3-1 in the final at Zayed Sports City Stadium, Abu Dhabi. The Gulf side, making a first appearance in the final, sealed the title through goals from Almoez Ali, Abdulaziz Hatem and Akram Afif. Takumi Minamino pulled back with a goal for Japan, but not enough to deny Qatar from winning.

Qatar took the lead with a spectacular bicycle kick by Almoez Ali in the 12th minute. The goal is his ninth in the tournament, took him past Iranian Ali Daei's 1996 tally. Then, Abdulaziz Hatem doubled the lead for Qatar with a long-distance strike in the 27th minute.

Japan got back into the game in the 69th minute after Takumi Minamino beat Saad Al Sheeb. It is the first goal Qatar had conceded in the tournament.

However with eight minutes remaining, Qatar sealed the victory.  Akram Afif converted a penalty after a handball by Japan captain Maya Yoshida.

Qatar have shown a huge improvement at this tournament. They look set to compete against the best in the world at the World Cup 2022. But for now, the new Asian Champions will focus on the Copa America 2019.

QATAR THRASHED UAE IN ASIAN CUP SEMIFINALS

Qatar hammered hosts United Arab Emirates to reach the Asian Cup football final. Dubbed the Blockade Derby, the match was the first meeting between the two regional rivals since the start of the Gulf crisis.

Qatar opened the scoring with Boualem Khoukhi in the 22nd minute with Almoez Ali adding a second 15 minutes later. Hassan al-Haydos added a third in the 80th minute with a chip over the UAE goal-keeper and Ismaeil sealed Qatar's progress with a goal in injury time.

The match was marred by crowd disruptions twice where shoes and bottles were thrown at Qatari players celebrating after scoring. Qatar's qualify to the title match for the first time where it will face Japan on Friday.

JAPAN STUN IRAN TO TAKE ASIAN CUP FINAL SPOT

Japan stunned favourites Iran 3-0 in the Asian Cup semi-finals to move one win away from their fifth title on Monday. Iran have been in excellent form at this tournament with 12 unanswered goals en route to the semis.

Werder Bremen striker Yuya Osako opened the scoring in the 56th minute and added his second from the penalty spot. Genki Haraguchi then scored in stoppage time to complete the victory.

A sad exit for Iran as Japan reached their fifth final in the last 8 tournaments. The Samurai Blue will face either hosts United Arab Emirates or Qatar in Friday's final in Abu Dhabi.

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VICTORY FOR VIETNAM IN THE AFF SUZUKI CUP

Vietnam ended their ten years wait to win the AFF Suzuki Cup after beating Malaysia 1-0 in the tournament’s final second-leg at My Dinh Stadium. After the 2-2 draw in the first leg at the National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Vietnam carried two away goals advantage for the final 90 minutes in Hanoi. Nguyen Anh Duc turned hero for the home side as he scored the only goal in the sixth minute after receiving a cross from midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai.

Malaysia pressed for an equaliser but the score remained until the final whistle. Vietnam survived the thrilling encounter with a deserving 1-0 victory. They are officially the champions of AFF Suzuki Cup 2018, beating Malaysia 3-2 on aggregate after the two legs. This is the first AFF Cup championship title in a decade for Vietnam and also only their second in history.

They lifted the trophy right after the match and the fans celebrated throughout the night. Midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai was named the Most Valuable Player award for his outstanding performance. Malaysia’s heroic journey in the tournament came to a heartbreaking end, but they can still be proud to be the second best in South East Asia.

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ARSENAL BEAT PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN AT INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONS CUP

Arsenal secured a comfortable International Champions Cup win over Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday. Captained by Mesut Ozil, the Gunners named more experienced players in the line-up compared to their opponent.

Ozil gave the Gunners the lead in his first appearance of the pre-season. However, it was cancelled out when Sead Kolasinac fouled Timothy Weah, and Christopher Nkunku scored the equaliser for the inexperienced French side. Alexandre Lacazette struck twice within four minutes to put Arsenal in control again. Then Rob Holding scored with a header from 18 yards and Eddie Nketiah added gloss to the victory.

It was an exciting pre season match for the fans as Arsenal had named a far stronger side than Thomas Tuchel’s PSG, who had only four senior players in a line-up that included 40-year-old summer signing Gianluigi Buffon.

RUGGER DISTRICT

ATLETICO MADRID EDGE ARSENAL IN PRE SEASON TOURNEY

Arsenal prospect Emile Smith Rowe scored a superb solo goal to earn his team a 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid in the International Champions Cup as Unai Emery was treated to a showcase of the potential in his squad.

​The goal cancelled out Luciano Vietto's opener for Atletico, who were without the likes of Antoine Griezmann, Diego Godin and Jose Gimenez but nevertheless exposed Arsenal's defensive frailties on occasion and looked the better organised of the two teams.

However, Arsenal's young guns failed to fire in the penalty shoot-out, though, with Joe Willock and Eddie Nketiah missing their spot-kicks along with Henrikh Mkhitaryan as Atletico triumphed 3-1.

FRANCE BEAT CROATIA TO CLINCH THE FIFA WORLD CUP

France clinched their second FIFA World Cup after defeating Croatia in a thrilling finale at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium. Les Bleus repeated their success on home soil at France 98 with a comfortable 4-2 victory despite Croatia's strong performance throughout the tournament in Russia. Their victory meant Didier Deschamps is now the third man to win the World Cup as a player and coach.

Luck was not on Croatia's side as France erased their memories of losing in the final to Portugal in Euro 2016. France took the lead after 18 minutes when Antoine Griezmann's free-kick deflected in from Mario Mandzukic's head.

Ten minutes later, Croatia equalised with a superb goal by Ivan Perisic. But then, referee Nestor Pitana awarded a penalty to France after VAR was consulted for a handball by Perisic. Griezmann calmly scored from the spot in the 38th minute to restore his team's advantage.

When the match resumed after the break, France looked to have wrapped it up with two strikes in six minutes from Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe either side of the hour mark. Croatia showed unbreakable spirit and even threatened a comeback when Mandzukic took advantage of France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris hesitating over a clearance to pull a goal back. But France closed out the win to bring redemption for Deschamps after defeat at the Euros two years ago, sparking wild celebrations and ensuring Lloris lifted the World Cup.

Photos: FIFA

TIGERS SUPER SPORTS

BELGIUM EDGE ENGLAND TO SECURE THIRD PLACE IN THE WORLD CUP

Belgium beat England 2-1 on Saturday to earn their best ever World Cup finish in the tournament. Thomas Meunier and Eden Hazard found the net at St. Petersburg Stadium after both teams were knocked-out in the semifinals. Belgium were beaten by France, while England lost to Croatia in the last four.

Belgium took an early lead with Meunier's 4th minute goal. He ran from England's blind side and knocked-in a cross from Nacer Chadli. The score remained until the break.

England returned in the second half in search for an equaliser. They got their best chance through Eric Dier, but Toby Alderweireld slid on the goal line to clear the shot. With less than ten minutes left to play, Belgium suddenly doubled their lead. Hazard beat Jordan Pickford after getting a brilliant pass from Kevin De Bruyne.

The goal sealed the third place for Belgium, which is their best finish in the World Cup. After beating England in the group stage, the Belgians dominated again for the second win over the same opponent.

Photos: FIFA

CROATIA BREAK ENGLAND'S HEART TO REACH FIRST EVER FINAL

Croatia broke England's heart after they denied the Three Lions from reaching the World Cup final. It was thrilling clash where Mario Mandzukic scored the winning goal deep in extra time as Croatia beat England 2-1.

Kieran Trippier’s freekick early in the match put England on course to reach their first final since 1966. It was a magnificient curling shot from 25 yards, which is also England’s first goal from a freekick at the World Cup since David Beckham against Ecuador in 2006.

But it wasn’t enough for them, as Croatia came stronger in the second half and equalised through Ivan Perisic. Sime Vrsaljko crossed from the right and Perisic striked the ball in front of Kyle Walker to score the 68th minute equaliser.

As both sides failed to get the second goal, the match was dragged into the extra-time. Mandzukic finally used his remaining energy to score the 109th minute winner and take Croatia into the World Cup final for the first time in its short history.

TIGERS SUPER SPORTS

FRANCE BEAT BELGIUM TO ENTER THE FINAL

France has edged Belgium 1-0 to advance to the World Cup final. Samuel Umtiti's glancing header from Antoine Griezmann's corner is all that seperates the two teams.

Belgium started strong in Saint Petersburg, but France had the edge in both defence and attack. Umtiti’s header from a corner in the 51st minute proved to be crucial as it decides the winner of this excellent tie.

Hugo Lloris, made some spectacular saves to deny Toby Alderweireld and Alex Witsel’s efforts as Belgium increased the pressure. The result is painful for Belgium as their 'Golden Generation' failed to land their first ever World Cup title.

France will wait for 24 hours before they find out whether they will play England or Croatia in the final at Luzhniki Stadium on Sunday. 20 years after their first World Cup triumph, now they have the chance to lift the trophy again.

THE MATCH

CROATIA TAKE THE LAST SEMIFINALS SPOT

Russia's World Cup dream came to an end after losing on penalties to Croatia. The home fans' excitement after their team scored a last-minute equaliser, turned to sadness as Croatia won 4-3 on penalties.

Croatia were the favourites for the quarterfinals clash. They got two great midfielders in Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric.

Russia had their hattrick hero against Saudi Arabia, Denis Cheryshev in their line-up. And he made a quick impact with the opening goal in the 31st minute. After taking a pass from Artem Dzyuba, Cheryshev beat Modric and fired home from outside the box.

Then Andrej Kramaric leveled the score just eight minutes later. Mario Mandzukic crossed inside the penalty area for Kramaric to head home.

Both team had their chances but failed to get the winner in 90 minutes. However, Croatia took the lead in the 101st minute, Domagoj Vida headed the ball low into the net from a corner kick.

Five minutes before the end of extra time, Russia draw level again, substitute Alan Dzagoev holding up a free-kick for Mario Fernandes to head home in the 115th minute.

At the end, the winner had to be decided through penalty kicks. Rakitic scored the winning penalty and Croatia beat Russia 4-3 in the shoot-outs. They advance to the semifinals and will face England.

THE MATCH

ENGLAND REACH WORLD CUP SEMIFINALS AFTER 28 YEARS

Harry Maguire and Dele Alli fired England into the World Cup semi-finals for the first time in 28 years after it eased its way to a 2-0 victory over Sweden.

Maguire opened the scoring in the 30th minute. The England defender jumped high and headed in to beat Robin Olsen.

Alli doubled the lead after the break to clear the way for the Three Lions towards the semifinals. Jesse Lingard delivered a brilliant pass to the back post and Alli ran onto it and headed with ease.

Sweden tried to get back into the match, but Jordan Pickford was the hero at the back. The England's goalkeeper made atleast three superb saves to deny the Swedes.

The victory sends Gareth Southgate's young squad into the last four. England will play either Russia or Croatia in the semifinals.

DONADONI SPORTS

BELGIUM END BRAZILIAN'S DREAM

Belgium beat Brazil 2-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals to set-up a semifinal clash with France. The five-time world champion was sent out of the World Cup on Friday, ending their dream of clinching the sixth title in Russia.

Belgium went ahead in the 13th minute after an own-goal by Fernandinho. The midfielder misjudged Nacer Chadli's corner kick which hit his arm and flew into his own net.

Right after the half hour mark, Kevin De Bruyne added a second for the Belgium with a powerful shot to put Belgium firmly in control.

But Brazil did not go down without a fight in Kazan. The second half saw the men in yellow pushing forward.

Brazil finally got the breakthrough in 76th minute as Renato Augusto jumping header fell into the bottom corner of Belgium's goal. Neymar, Paulinho, Augusto and Coutinho had the opportunities to equalize but failed to beat Thibaut Courtois. 

Belgium will face France in Saint Petersburg on Tuesday, with a place in the final at stake.

TIGERS SUPER SPORTS

FRANCE BEAT URUGUAY TO REACH WORLD CUP SEMIFINALS

France eased past Uruguay to take their place in the World Cup semifinals with a 2-0 win in their last eight match. Uruguay is the third South American victim to the French after Peru and Argentina were beaten in the earlier stages.

Uruguay were without their most influential player, Edinson Cavani who were ruled out for the knee injury suffered in the match against Portugal. Luis Suarez had to take the important role but struggled to make an impact.

France produced a very good performance with Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante were pretty outstanding throughout the match. Raphael Varane gave France the lead with a header in the 40th minute. Antoine Griezmann sent in a free kick from the right side and Varane raced across the area. He got his head to the ball and sent it into the far corner behind Muslera. In the 61st minute Griezmann increased the lead for his team. His powerful shot flew directly to the hands of the goalkeeper but slipped into the net.

Uruguay were unbeaten in 2018 until this match, and Muslera has been one of the best goalkeeper at this World Cup. They just lost to a better team. The victory gave France a spot in the World Cup semifinals. The 1998 champions will next face either Brazil or Belgium on Tuesday in St. Petersburg.

DONADONI SPORTS

BELGIUM STAGE LATE COMEBACK TO EDGE JAPAN

Belgium beat spirited Japan 3-2 to set up a mouthwatering quarterfinals clash with five-time champions Brazil. It was an interesting match as the Japanese went two-nil up before Belgium fought back with three goals.

Japan went ahead right after the break. Haraguchi broke into the area and beat Courtois in the 48th minute. Hardly five minutes later, Inui doubled the lead with a 25 metres attempt.

It looked like Belgium was going to lose this match. But Jan Vertonghen gave his team a new hope with just 20 minutes left to play. His header flew high over the Japanese goalkeeper and hit the back of the net.

Then Marouane Fellaini equalised from close range with a powerful header after receiving a cross from Eden Hazard. And Japan lost their 2 goals cushion and back to square one.

As the match entered the stoppage time, Nacer Chadli got the winner as he converted a cross by Meunier from a quick counter attack.

The Belgium’s ‘golden generation’ have scored 12 goals in four games this World Cup. They will face Brazil in the last eight clash on Friday.

RUGGER DISTRICT

BRAZIL SHOW CLASS TO END MEXICO'S DREAM

Brazil sent Mexico out of the World Cup with a 2-0 win in Samara. Neymar scored a goal and assisted the second to send his team into the quarterfinals for a seventh consecutive time.

Mexico had a good start as they dominated early in the Round of 16 match. However, Brazil grew stronger as the match progress and started to take control.

Six minutes into second half Neymar finally broke the deadlock. The world's most expensive player slid to score from Willian's good cross. It was Brazil's 227th goal at the World Cup, ahead of Germany as the all-time top scorers.

Mexico tried to regain control of the match, but Brazil got so much talents in their squad. Firminho was brought-in late in the second half and he buried the opponent with a goal in the 88th minute.

Mexico are eliminated again from the tournament as they have been at every World Cup since 1994. Brazil will face Belgium in their last-eight tie in Kazan on Friday.

TIGERS SUPER SPORTS

RUSSIA ELIMINATE SPAIN FROM WORLD CUP

World Cup hosts sent Spain out of the tournament through penalty shootout. Russia captain Igor Akinfeev was the hero as he saved two penalties after both teams were tied to a 1-1 draw at the end of 120 minutes.

Spain took the lead in the 12th minute when Sergei Ignashevich unintentionally kicked the ball into his own net while handling Sergio Ramos.

Russia were awarded a penalty for a handball by Gerard Pique just before the break. Artem Dzyuba made no mistake from the spot to give his team the equalizer.

Spain took control almost the entire match, but failed to find the winner. With strong home support, the Russians defended brilliantly to stop Spain. Russia will face either Croatia in the quarterfinals as Spain's World Cup campaign has ended.

The Match

CAVANI FIRES URUGUAY INTO QUARTERFINALS

Portugal crashed out of the World Cup following 2-1 defeat to Uruguay in the Round of 16. Edinson Cavani scored twice to send his team into the quarterfinals.

Jose Giménez  was back in the Uruguay's line-up after missing out their last group match against Russia. Cristiano Ronaldo led his team into the match with Ricardo, Goncalo Guedes and Bernardo Silva in the first eleven.

Uruguay took an early lead through Cavani's header in the 7th minute. The striker sent a long pass accross the field to Luis Suárez and finished it off on the return.

Uruguay had not conceded in this World Cup and they managed to extend it for another 45 minutes. Ronaldo was tightly marked and could not get a goal.

Portugal played better after the break. Pepe headed in a cross from Raphael Guerreiro in the 55th minute to level the scores.

Seven minutes later, Uruguay were in front again. Cavani striked with a curling shot after receiving a good pass from Rodrigo Betancur.

Uruguay held on with the advantage until the final whistle, and sent the European Champions packing. They will face France in the quarterfinals on Friday.

Photo: FIFA

RUGGER DISTRICT

FRANCE BEAT ARGENTINA IN A THRILLING LAST 16 MATCH

France are through to the World Cup quarter-finals after a stunning 4-3 victory over Argentina. It was an interesting 90 minutes where both sides threw everything they could to win the match. Kylian Mbappe stole the show as he involved in three of France’s four goals in Kazan.

France got the opening goal from the penalty spot in the 13th minute. Antoine Griezmann fired home after Mbappe was hauled down by Marcos Rojo.

Angel di Maria gave Argentina the equaliser just before halftime with a screamer to the top corner, leaving no chance for Hugo Lloris to stop it.

After just three minutes into second half, Argentina suddenly took the lead. Gabriel Mercado brilliantly clipped Lionel Messi’s low shot to beat Lloris.

Benjamin Pavard levelled the scores again with a good half-volley in the 57th minute. Then Mbappe rised to the occassion. Two strikes in the 64th and 68th minute put France on the brink of quarterfinals.

Argentina got another goal deep into the stoppage time through Sergio Aguero but it was already too little. France will face the winner of the match between Uruguay and Portugal in the quarterfinals.

Photo: FIFA

BELGIUM ADVANCE TO KNOCK-OUT STAGE AS GROUP WINNER

Belgium denied England from claiming the top spot in Group G with a deserving 1-0 win last night. Adnan Januzaj became the hero for his team as they snatched first place and set up a last 16 meeting with Japan.

Both teams made big changes in their starting line-ups probably to save some good legs for upcoming matches. Gareth Southgate had nine different players from the previous match, while Belgium rested their top striker, Romelu Lukaku.

The first half of the match saw both team playing with extra cautious, trying to avoid bookings which may affect their group's rankings. However, six minutes into the second half Januzaj broke the deadlock. The 23-year-old beat Danny Rose before launching a left-footed strike that curled past Pickford.

The Three Lions were stunned and pushed forward in search of goals. But Belgium's back line were rock solid and unbreakable. They held on with the one goal advantage to secure three points and topped the group. Belgium will face Japan in the round of 16, while England will meet Colombia.

Photo: FIFA