https://www.scmp.com/rss/518963/feed The 2024 UEFA European Football Championship will be held in Germany from June 14 to July 14. Italy are the defending champions. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Wency Chen Wency Chen Ant International, the global arm of Chinese fintech giant Ant Group, has entered into a three-year strategic partnership with English Premier League (EPL) football club Tottenham Hotspur, as part of the company’s efforts to expand its reach across overseas markets. Singapore-based Ant International, through digital payment solutions provider Alipay+ and merchant payment processing service Antom, will serve as Tottenham Hotspur’s exclusive global payments provider and digital wallet partner, the... https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3278296/ant-international-teams-epl-club-tottenham-hotspur-global-expansion-drive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3278296/ant-international-teams-epl-club-tottenham-hotspur-global-expansion-drive?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 12 Sep 2024 12:10:30 +0000 Thierry Henry’s France are hoping a home crowd at the Parc des Princes can drive them on to win Olympic men’s football gold but an impressive Spain side will attempt to deny them in Friday’s final. Henry, a France legend as a player, has led his country to the brink of their second football gold medal – 40 years after they won the title in Los Angeles. That victory over Brazil came just a few weeks after the full French national team lifted their first major trophy by beating Spain on home soil... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3273758/paris-olympics-formidable-spain-aim-deny-thierry-henrys-france-gold-mens-football?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3273758/paris-olympics-formidable-spain-aim-deny-thierry-henrys-france-gold-mens-football?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 16:00:10 +0000 Feel strongly about these letters, or any other aspects of the news? Share your views by emailing us your Letter to the Editor at letters@scmp.com or filling in this Google form. Submissions should not exceed 400 words, and must include your full name and address, plus a phone number for verification The 2024 Paris Olympics are officially under way, and Hong Kong athletes are once again competing in the greatest international sports arena. Undoubtedly, the Hong Kong delegation’s supporters at... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3272459/olympic-win-win-hong-kong-business-and-youth?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3272459/olympic-win-win-hong-kong-business-and-youth?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 31 Jul 2024 03:30:09 +0000 Pundits and football fans alike shook their heads in wonder as Lamine Yamal stood alongside his teammates on the winner’s podium on Sunday night’s Euro 2024 final in Berlin. Not only is he now the youngest ever Euro or World Cup finalist, but it was announced afterwards that Uefa had crowned him Young Player of the Tournament. And those records and accolades are just the latest in a string of achievements by the youngster since he burst onto the scene aged 15. Even former Barcelona coach Xavi... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/entertainment/article/3270645/meet-lamine-yamal-rising-football-talent-dubbed-mini-messi-adidas-sponsored-player-was-youngest-ever?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/entertainment/article/3270645/meet-lamine-yamal-rising-football-talent-dubbed-mini-messi-adidas-sponsored-player-was-youngest-ever?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 16 Jul 2024 22:00:09 +0000 Gareth Southgate has resigned as England manager after the defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. The former England defender had come in for significant criticism during his side’s run to the final in Berlin, where a late Mikel Oyarzabal winner consigned his side to a 2-1 loss. Southgate took the role in 2016 following the dismissal of Sam Allardyce and has overseen a run to two European Championship finals as well as a World Cup semi-final. At Euro 2020, England were beaten on penalties by... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3270679/england-boss-gareth-southgate-quits-after-euro-2024-final-failure-against-spain?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3270679/england-boss-gareth-southgate-quits-after-euro-2024-final-failure-against-spain?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 16 Jul 2024 10:24:44 +0000 A superb Spain team led by Rodri and Lamine Yamal were fitting winners of Euro 2024 after lighting up an often disappointing tournament in which too many of the continent’s star players failed to produce their best form. Kylian Mbappe, the world’s best striker, had been hoping to prepare for joining Real Madrid by captaining France to glory but broke his nose and scored just once, from a penalty, as his team lost in the semi-finals. Jude Bellingham, who will play with Mbappe in Madrid next... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3270538/euro-2024-spains-triumph-saving-grace-disappointing-event-where-stars-went-missing?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3270538/euro-2024-spains-triumph-saving-grace-disappointing-event-where-stars-went-missing?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 Jul 2024 16:00:19 +0000 Gareth Southgate is leaving his future as England manager up in the air after his team’s 2-1 loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. Southgate’s contract expires in December and it is unclear whether he would sign an extension that covered coming tournaments such as the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. “I don’t think now is a good time to make a decision like that,” Southgate told UK broadcaster ITV after the final. “I’m going to talk to the right people. It’s just not for... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3270440/england-boss-gareth-southgate-non-committal-future-after-euro-2024-final-defeat-spain?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3270440/england-boss-gareth-southgate-non-committal-future-after-euro-2024-final-defeat-spain?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 Jul 2024 05:00:09 +0000 Spain lived up to their top billing as they defeated England 2-1 in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday to claim a record fourth continental title and extend England’s 58-year big trophy drought by at least another two years. Substitute Mikel Oyarzabal slid into Marc Cucurella’s low cross to fire an 86th-minute winner after their 47th-minute opener from Nico Williams was cancelled out by English sub Cole Palmer in the 73rd. Man of the Match Williams’ goal was superbly set up by Lamine Yamal who the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3270430/euro-2024-spain-strike-late-beat-england-2-1-and-win-final-berlin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3270430/euro-2024-spain-strike-late-beat-england-2-1-and-win-final-berlin?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Jul 2024 21:31:34 +0000 While England are seeking their first major trophy in 58 years after reaching a second consecutive Euros final, Spain will be aiming to break the record for most successes in the competition and to crown a perfect tournament. In their hunt for a first-ever European title and first major trophy in 58 years, England will have to end Spain’s 100 per cent record at Euro 2024 in the final at Berlin’s Olympic Stadium. “Just one more step and we’ll be in the history books,” England captain Harry Kane... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3270386/euro-2024-final-englands-redemption-v-spains-record-whats-line-berlin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3270386/euro-2024-final-englands-redemption-v-spains-record-whats-line-berlin?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 14 Jul 2024 05:00:12 +0000 A date with destiny awaits England on Sunday night and the nation will come to a standstill for a historic event that could usher in a new era. And it has nothing to do with the recent general election. The football match between England and Spain’s men’s teams will decide who becomes European champions. For England, a win will end “58 years of hurt”, after multiple failures since winning its only trophy, the World Cup in 1966. (This does not apply to the women’s team, which won the “Euros” in... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/article/3270359/now-time-weight-english-football-finally-be-lifted?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/article/3270359/now-time-weight-english-football-finally-be-lifted?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 13 Jul 2024 13:00:49 +0000 England manager Gareth Southgate said he was “immensely proud” to lead the Three Lions into a first ever major tournament final on foreign soil after a dramatic 2-1 win over the Netherlands. Ollie Watkins struck a stoppage-time winner in Dortmund to send England into the final against Spain in Berlin. For the third consecutive game England were forced to come from behind after Xavi Simons’ early thunderbolt for the Dutch. But Southgate’s men got their rewards for a much-improved performance as... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269998/euro-2024-southgate-immensely-proud-lead-england-first-final-foreign-soil?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269998/euro-2024-southgate-immensely-proud-lead-england-first-final-foreign-soil?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 11 Jul 2024 01:31:11 +0000 Spain struck twice in five minutes in a pulsating first half to secure a 2-1 comeback win over France as a record-breaking goal from teenager Lamine Yamal and a Dani Olmo effort propelled them into the Euro 2024 final. Yamal, 16, cancelled out Randal Kolo Muani’s opener with a sublime shot in the 21st minute to become the youngest scorer in a Euro or World Cup tournament before Olmo added another in the 25th for his third goal in the knockout stage. The Spaniards, who have won every game of the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269833/euro-2024-wonderkid-yamal-target-spain-edge-france-2-1-reach-final?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269833/euro-2024-wonderkid-yamal-target-spain-edge-france-2-1-reach-final?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Jul 2024 21:29:00 +0000 France go into Tuesday’s Euro 2024 semi-final showdown against Spain hoping Kylian Mbappé can finally produce a performance worthy of his superstar status at a tournament in which he has struggled to find form and fitness. The match in Munich is a mouthwatering prospect and a huge occasion in particular for Mbappé, in his first major tournament captaining his country and just before he starts a new chapter in his career at Real Madrid. At 25, and having just completed his dream move to the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269652/euro-2024-france-hoping-captain-kylian-mbappe-can-finally-deliver-against-spain-semi?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269652/euro-2024-france-hoping-captain-kylian-mbappe-can-finally-deliver-against-spain-semi?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 08 Jul 2024 19:00:09 +0000 Bukayo Saka said self-belief powered his man-of-the-match performance against Switzerland, as a successful penalty in the shoot-out banished his demons of three years ago. Not only did Saka equalise for England with a fine individual strike to cancel out Breel Embolo’s opener – to make it 1-1 and take the match to extra-time – he took the third of the five penalties all scored by Gareth Southgate’s side to secure a 5-3 win in the shoot-out. Saka was one of three players who missed his penalty in... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269502/euro-2024-england-star-saka-exorcises-penalty-demons-semi-finals-beckon?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269502/euro-2024-england-star-saka-exorcises-penalty-demons-semi-finals-beckon?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 07 Jul 2024 09:43:41 +0000 Defeat for Portugal at the European Championship likely brought down the curtain on the extraordinary international career of Cristiano Ronaldo. While Portugal’s totemic forward has made no pronouncements on his future with the national team, the 39-year-old struggled to revive former glories at the tournament in Germany and departed Euro 2024 without scoring apart from in shoot-outs. Portugal lost 5-3 to France on penalties in their quarter-final after a goalless stalemate, in which Ronaldo... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269415/euro-2024-portugals-exit-likely-herald-ronaldos-international-retirement?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269415/euro-2024-portugals-exit-likely-herald-ronaldos-international-retirement?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 06 Jul 2024 01:11:50 +0000 A former Chinese footballer who played in Hong Kong and England has left mainland social media users stunned after he correctly predicted which teams would progress from the round of 16 at the European Championship in Germany. Defender Fan Zhiyi, who played for Hong Kong Rangers FC and captained Crystal Palace in the EFL Championship, made his predictions on Chinese show Xinai Sports last Sunday, following Germany’s 2-0 victory over Denmark and Italy’s defeat to Switzerland by the same scoreline... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269132/euro-2024-former-china-player-fan-zhiyi-stuns-social-media-perfect-last-16-picks?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269132/euro-2024-former-china-player-fan-zhiyi-stuns-social-media-perfect-last-16-picks?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Jul 2024 13:00:11 +0000 Kylian Mbappé will have to end his childhood idol’s European Championship dreams if he is to achieve his when France take on Portugal in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024. Les Bleus’ captain famously grew up with posters of Cristiano Ronaldo on his wall and victory for France in Hamburg would potentially spell the end of the 39-year-old’s remarkable international career. The recent completion of Mbappé’s move to Real Madrid put an end to years of speculation about when he would sign for the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269148/euro-2024-kylian-mbappe-will-have-overcome-idol-cristiano-ronaldo-achieve-dream?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269148/euro-2024-kylian-mbappe-will-have-overcome-idol-cristiano-ronaldo-achieve-dream?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Jul 2024 06:58:33 +0000 Merih Demiral was Turkey’s unlikely hero with both goals in a 2-1 win over Austria on Tuesday that booked their place in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals. The Al-Ahli centre-back smashed home after just 58 seconds and produced a towering header on the hour mark to double Turkey’s lead. Michael Gregoritsch quickly pulled a goal back for Austria and only a stunning save from Mert Gunok denied Christoph Baumgartner a dramatic equaliser deep into stoppage-time. Turkey advance to face the Netherlands in... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268933/euro-2024-merih-demiral-double-sends-turkey-quarter-finals-austrias-expense-2-1-win?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268933/euro-2024-merih-demiral-double-sends-turkey-quarter-finals-austrias-expense-2-1-win?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Jul 2024 21:38:03 +0000 The Netherlands could be peaking at just the right time. The Dutch team reached their first European Championship quarter final in 16 years with a 3-0 win over Romania on Tuesday after their best performance by far at Euro 2024. Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock in the 20th minute and substitute Donyell Malen scored two late goals to send the Dutch to their first quarter final in the tournament since 2008. The Netherlands had missed a plethora of earlier opportunities to add to the lead and captain... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268930/euro-2024-much-improved-netherlands-beat-romania-3-0-reach-first-euros-quarter-final-16-years?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268930/euro-2024-much-improved-netherlands-beat-romania-3-0-reach-first-euros-quarter-final-16-years?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Jul 2024 19:26:36 +0000 Kylian Mbappé and France’s attack might be misfiring, but an outstanding defence has helped carry them to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024. Les Bleus have scored only three times in four games so far at the European Championship, once from a penalty by Mbappe and twice via opposition defenders, including Jan Vertonghen’s own goal which sealed a 1-0 win over Belgium in the last 16. However, France kept a third clean sheet in a tournament in which they have let in a solitary goal: a penalty by... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268863/euro-2024-kylian-mbappe-france-misfiring-germany-defence-key-quarter-final-run?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268863/euro-2024-kylian-mbappe-france-misfiring-germany-defence-key-quarter-final-run?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Jul 2024 09:30:08 +0000 Goalkeeper Diogo Costa saved all three penalties as Portugal won 3-0 in a shoot-out against a brave Slovenia side who had held them to a 0-0 draw after Cristiano Ronaldo’s extra-time miss from the spot in a dramatic Euro 2024 last 16 clash on Monday. Portugal had the lion’s share of the chances but also their goalkeeper to thank for a one-on-one save from Slovenia striker Benjamin Sesko as fortunate Portugal stumbled into a quarter-final meeting with France in Hamburg on Friday. Costa saved from... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268790/euro-2024-portugal-reach-quarter-finals-after-shoot-out-win-over-slovenia?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268790/euro-2024-portugal-reach-quarter-finals-after-shoot-out-win-over-slovenia?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 01 Jul 2024 22:52:53 +0000 Jan Vertonghen’s late own goal took France into the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 on Monday as they edged Belgium 1-0 in a tense tie in Düsseldorf. France had dominated the last-16 clash but their profligate finishing looked set to force extra time until they finally found a way through with five minutes left. Substitute Randal Kolo Muani collected the ball inside the Belgian penalty area and hit a shot that was going wide until a deflection off the unfortunate Vertonghen took it past goalkeeper... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268782/euro-2024-belgium-own-goal-breaks-tie-sending-france-quarter-finals?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268782/euro-2024-belgium-own-goal-breaks-tie-sending-france-quarter-finals?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 01 Jul 2024 18:41:19 +0000 Turkey have felt at home at Euro 2024 thanks to a huge expat population in Germany, but it is Austria who will be in familiar surroundings for Tuesday’s last-16 clash in Leipzig. Under the leadership of Ralf Rangnick, Austria have been the revelation of the tournament so far, topping a group that contained France and the Netherlands, thanks to their coach’s trademark brand of energetic football. Rangnick’s first foray into international management has reestablished his reputation as one the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268750/euro-2024-ralf-rangnicks-manchester-united-redemption-turns-austria-dark-horses?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268750/euro-2024-ralf-rangnicks-manchester-united-redemption-turns-austria-dark-horses?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 01 Jul 2024 12:30:16 +0000 Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Nico Williams and Dani Olmo all scored as Spain came from behind to beat surprise packages Georgia 4-1 at Euro 2024 and set up a blockbuster quarter-final against hosts Germany. Robin Le Normand’s own goal gave Georgia a shock lead in the 18th minute of this last-16 tie to send their noisy supporters wild in Cologne. It was the first goal Spain had conceded at the competition but they came back to equalise six minutes before the interval courtesy of Manchester City midfielder... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268661/euro-2024-spain-come-behind-thrash-georgia-4-1-and-reach-quarter-finals?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268661/euro-2024-spain-come-behind-thrash-georgia-4-1-and-reach-quarter-finals?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 30 Jun 2024 21:53:03 +0000 England escaped an embarrassing last 16 exit at Euro 2024 thanks to Jude Bellingham’s overhead kick before Harry Kane struck in extra-time for a 2-1 win over Slovakia. The Three Lions have been hyped as one of the favourites to end a 58-year wait for major tournament glory but looked set to go out with a whimper to Ivan Schranz’s 25th minute goal. However, Bellingham’s moment of inspiration five minutes into six added on in stoppage time breathed new life into Gareth Southgate’s reign as England... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268658/euro-2024-bellingham-kane-rescue-england-shock-exit-slovakia?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268658/euro-2024-bellingham-kane-rescue-england-shock-exit-slovakia?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 30 Jun 2024 19:18:21 +0000 Hosts Germany beat Denmark 2-0 in a storm-interrupted encounter to reach the quarter-finals of Euro 2024, after reigning champions Italy were knocked out by Switzerland. Two second-half goals, one a Kai Havertz penalty and another a Jamal Musiala strike, allowed Germany to come out on top in Dortmund, where the last-16 tie was halted for 25 minutes late in the first half as a violent storm passed overhead. English referee Michael Oliver was forced to take the two teams off the pitch because of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268595/euro-2024-germany-weather-storm-last-16-holders-italy-knocked-out-switzerland?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268595/euro-2024-germany-weather-storm-last-16-holders-italy-knocked-out-switzerland?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 30 Jun 2024 02:27:41 +0000 The founder of Georgia’s ruling party, billionaire former prime minister Bidzina Ivanishvili, said on Thursday he would donate 30 million lari (US$10.7m, HK$83.65m) to the national team after they upset Portugal to qualify for the Euro 2024 last 16. In a statement, his Georgian Dream party said Ivanishvili congratulated the team and pledged the money from his charitable foundation in recognition of what he called a “historic and dream victory”. Ivanishvili, who is worth US$4.9 billion, pledged a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268417/euro-2024-ex-pm-donates-us10m-georgia-football-team-after-historic-win-over-portugal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268417/euro-2024-ex-pm-donates-us10m-georgia-football-team-after-historic-win-over-portugal?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 28 Jun 2024 15:00:09 +0000 As Euro 2024 in Germany hots up, this French international – who idolised fellow fashionable footballer David Beckham growing up – is staying effortlessly cool despite his team being tipped by many to win the tournament. One of the most expensive players in history, with more than 300 goals for club and country, he took the captain’s armband from France’s biggest star Kylian Mbappé (he of the watch collection that includes a limited edition Euros 2024 model) when the latter was sidelined due to... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/people/celebrities/article/3268251/how-style-antoine-griezmann-hotshot-france-striker-uefa-euro-2024?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/people/celebrities/article/3268251/how-style-antoine-griezmann-hotshot-france-striker-uefa-euro-2024?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 28 Jun 2024 06:00:13 +0000 The Euro 2024 group stage has concluded with one half of the knockout draw packed with four of the tournament’s favourites. Major tournament debutants Georgia, who statistically produced the biggest shock in European Championship history on Thursday by beating a Portugal team ranked 68 places above them, will face arguably the in-form team so far, Spain, in the last 16. And they will not have happy memories of taking on La Roja, having been beaten 7-1 at home in qualification. They are in the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268229/euro-2024-guide-knockout-stage-england-avoid-france-germany-until-final?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268229/euro-2024-guide-knockout-stage-england-avoid-france-germany-until-final?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 27 Jun 2024 07:13:27 +0000 England fans let manager Gareth Southgate know how they felt after an underwhelming 0-0 draw with Slovenia at Euro 2024, hurling empty beer cups in his direction. Southgate, whose team finished top of Group C with five points but scored two goals in three games, said he would bear the brunt of the criticism but made a plea for the fans to support his players. While England arrived as favourites, they have left fans frustrated with three tepid performances, falling short on their aim to make a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268043/euro-2024-fans-boo-poor-england-throw-beer-southgate-after-another-bore-draw?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3268043/euro-2024-fans-boo-poor-england-throw-beer-southgate-after-another-bore-draw?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 25 Jun 2024 23:38:09 +0000 Mattia Zaccagni’s superb last-gasp strike fired Italy into the Euro 2024 knockouts with a 1-1 draw against Croatia in a fraught Group B clash on Monday. Italy progress in second place behind winners Spain and will face Switzerland in the last 16, while Croatia are on the verge of elimination but could still progress depending on other results later in the week. With only two points it is unlikely Zlatko Dalic’s side will qualify as one of the four best third-place teams but it is still... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267891/euro-2024-zaccagni-rescues-italy-last-gasp-strike-leaving-croatia-limbo?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267891/euro-2024-zaccagni-rescues-italy-last-gasp-strike-leaving-croatia-limbo?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 24 Jun 2024 22:02:09 +0000 An early Ferran Torres strike gave Spain’s second-string side a 1-0 win over Albania on Monday as the three-time champions finished the Euro 2024 group stage with a perfect record and the defeat eliminated their opponents. Barcelona winger Torres finished off a fine move in the 13th minute in Dusseldorf to puncture the atmosphere in a stadium filled with a majority of noisy Albanian fans. However, this game was not a cruise for a Spain team showing 10 changes to the side which started their 1-0... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267890/euro-2024-spain-complete-perfect-group-stage-beating-albania-1-0?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267890/euro-2024-spain-complete-perfect-group-stage-beating-albania-1-0?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 24 Jun 2024 21:36:59 +0000 Hungary forward Barnabas Varga is in hospital in stable condition after a serious-looking injury in his team’s final group match at the European Championship on Sunday. Varga is likely to undergo surgery after fracturing several bones in his face. The 29-year-old also has concussion and will take no part in the rest of Euro 2024 should Hungary advance to the round of 16 as one of the four best third-place teams. The Group A game against Scotland was halted for almost 10 minutes so Varga could... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267773/euro-2024-hungarys-barnabas-varga-stable-condition-after-serious-injury-versus-scotland?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267773/euro-2024-hungarys-barnabas-varga-stable-condition-after-serious-injury-versus-scotland?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 24 Jun 2024 04:35:47 +0000 A stoppage-time header from Niclas Fullkrug rescued a 1-1 draw for Germany against Switzerland on Sunday in Frankfurt, ensuring the Euro 2024 hosts finish top of Group A. The Swiss took the lead when Dan Ndoye scored from close range after 28 minutes to stun the home side. Germany took a series of risks late in the hope of an equaliser and veteran striker Fullkrug delivered, heading home in the second minute of stoppage time. The result means Switzerland, rather than Germany, face a tougher... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267745/euro-2024-last-gasp-fuellkrug-goal-rescues-top-spot-euro-hosts-germany?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267745/euro-2024-last-gasp-fuellkrug-goal-rescues-top-spot-euro-hosts-germany?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 23 Jun 2024 22:25:27 +0000 Kevin Csoboth scored in the 10th minute of added time as Hungary snatched a 1-0 win over Scotland to stay in the hunt for a place in the last 16 of Euro 2024. A sickening collision led to Hungary striker Barnabas Varga being stretchered off in front of his visibly shocked teammates in the second half, but Csoboth’s late winner kept them alive in the tournament. It was a bitter end to Scotland’s bid to reach the knockout phase of a major tournament for the first time as they were caught out... https://www.scmp.com/news/article/3267743/euro-2024-hungary-score-late-beat-scotland-1-0-barnabas-varga-stretchered-after-collision?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/article/3267743/euro-2024-hungary-score-late-beat-scotland-1-0-barnabas-varga-stretchered-after-collision?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 23 Jun 2024 21:49:37 +0000 Uefa will increase security during the rest of Euro 2024 after several pitch invaders attempted to take selfies with Portugal’s star striker Cristiano Ronaldo. The 39-year-old forward posed for a photo with a young boy during the 3-0 win over Turkey in Group F on Saturday in Dortmund, but grew exasperated as at least five more fans attempted to do the same. “Safety and security in the stadium, on the pitch and at team facilities are the ultimate priority for Uefa,” the European football... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267736/euro-2024-security-bulked-after-pitch-invaders-aim-ronaldo-selfies?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267736/euro-2024-security-bulked-after-pitch-invaders-aim-ronaldo-selfies?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 23 Jun 2024 16:52:33 +0000 History awaits Scotland if they can beat Hungary on Sunday and potentially seal qualification for the knockout stages of a major tournament for the first time at Euro 2024. In 11 previous attempts, at eight World Cups and three European Championships, Scotland have always fallen at the group stage. A familiar early exit looked on the cards when Steve Clarke’s men suffered an opening night humiliation at the hands of hosts Germany. However, a battling 1-1 draw against Switzerland has re-instilled... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267637/euro-2024-clarkes-scotland-need-bold-approach-if-they-are-make-history?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267637/euro-2024-clarkes-scotland-need-bold-approach-if-they-are-make-history?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 22 Jun 2024 03:40:54 +0000 Feel strongly about these letters, or any other aspects of the news? Share your views by emailing us your Letter to the Editor at letters@scmp.com or filling in this Google form. Submissions should not exceed 400 words, and must include your full name and address, plus a phone number for verification Your recent series about China’s military development provided in-depth analysis and made for interesting reading. The third part of the series, “PLA closing gap on US” (June 16), addressed how... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3267364/china-alone-against-us-allies-west-pacific-or-it?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3267364/china-alone-against-us-allies-west-pacific-or-it?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Jun 2024 03:30:12 +0000 Spain qualified for the last 16 of Euro 2024 with a match to spare on Thursday after beating Italy 1-0 in a dominant display which ensured that La Roja would go through as Group B winners. Riccardo Calafiori’s own goal nine minutes after half-time was the difference between the two sides at Gelsenkirchen in the biggest match to date at the tournament in Germany. But the slender margin of victory did not reflect a statement performance from Spain who completely nullified Italy and should have had... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267436/euro-2024-dominant-spain-brush-past-italy-1-0-qualify-last-16-match-spare?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267436/euro-2024-dominant-spain-brush-past-italy-1-0-qualify-last-16-match-spare?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 20 Jun 2024 21:35:27 +0000 England must wait to secure a berth in the knockout stage of the Euro 2024 championship after a 1-1 draw with Denmark on Thursday, a game that Harry Kane brought to life with an early goal but which ended with his side clinging on for a single point. It was a second successive lacklustre performance from Gareth Southgate’s men, who squandered the chance to become the first England team to win their two opening games at a Euro tournament. The draw leaves the 2020 runners-up at the top of Group C... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267431/euro-2024-england-held-denmark-1-1-after-hjulmand-stunner?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267431/euro-2024-england-held-denmark-1-1-after-hjulmand-stunner?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 20 Jun 2024 19:46:11 +0000 Manager Dragan Stojkovic praised Serbia’s persistent attacks and shots on goal which earned a last-gasp equaliser in their Euro 2024 Group C clash against Slovenia on Thursday and kept their tournament hopes alive. A header by substitute Luka Jovic deep into added time cancelled out right back Zan Karnicnik’s 69th-minute opener for Slovenia, in a fluctuating game in which Serbia had 15 attempts on goal. “We do not give up, we believe all the way to the end and the result came as a reward for... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267430/euro-2024-serbia-rewarded-never-say-die-attitude-1-1-clash-slovenia?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267430/euro-2024-serbia-rewarded-never-say-die-attitude-1-1-clash-slovenia?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 20 Jun 2024 19:16:22 +0000 Hosts Germany became the first team through to the knockout stages following their 2-0 victory over Hungary on day six at Euro 2024. Meanwhile, Croatia’s hopes of reaching the last-16 took a hit as they were held to a 2-2 draw against Albania, but Scotland’s dreams are still just about intact after they drew 1-1 with Switzerland. Germany’s clash with Hungary was considered somewhat of a banana skin for the hosts, as Julian Nagelsmann’s side had failed to beat them when they met at Euro 2020 and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267305/euro-2024-germany-though-scotland-still-alive-croatia-albania-play-out-thrilling-draw?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267305/euro-2024-germany-though-scotland-still-alive-croatia-albania-play-out-thrilling-draw?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 20 Jun 2024 02:08:46 +0000 France striker Kylian Mbappe is feeling a “bit better”, teammate William Saliba said on Wednesday, ahead of undergoing more tests on a facial injury sustained in the team’s opening game of the European Championship. Mbappe broke his nose in an aerial collision during the 1-0 win against Austria on Monday and will have to wear a face mask if he plays on at the tournament. France’s next match is against Netherlands on Friday and the team has yet to officially confirm whether Mbappe is... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267271/euro-2024-kylian-mbappe-feeling-bit-better-after-injury-teammate-william-saliba-says?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267271/euro-2024-kylian-mbappe-feeling-bit-better-after-injury-teammate-william-saliba-says?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 19 Jun 2024 19:00:09 +0000 Spain are hoping the “exceptional” Fabian Ruiz can again be the difference-maker when they look to build on an impressive win against Croatia in their second Euro 2024 outing against Italy on Thursday. The meeting between the reigning European champions and the three-time winners of the competition in Gelsenkirchen is the stand-out tie of the opening round at the tournament. Top spot in Group B, and a theoretically easier last-16 draw, is at stake as the two sides aim to build on victories in... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267196/euro-2024-fabian-ruiz-ready-play-starring-role-again-spain-against-holders-italy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267196/euro-2024-fabian-ruiz-ready-play-starring-role-again-spain-against-holders-italy?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 19 Jun 2024 14:00:09 +0000 Gareth Southgate must solve his Phil Foden conundrum as the England playmaker struggles to reproduce his brilliant Manchester City form at international level. While England can book their place in the last 16 of Euro 2024 by beating Denmark in Frankfurt on Thursday, Foden’s latest underwhelming display for his country has sparked a debate about Southgate’s use of such a sublime talent. Foden laboured to make any impact on England’s nervy 1-0 win against Serbia in their Group C opener in... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267193/euro-2024-jude-bellingham-or-phil-foden-england-boss-gareth-southgate-faces-headache?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267193/euro-2024-jude-bellingham-or-phil-foden-england-boss-gareth-southgate-faces-headache?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 19 Jun 2024 07:00:14 +0000 Former Wuhan Three Towns winger Nicolae Stanciu has saluted the support he has received in China, after his stunning goal helped Romania open their Euro 2024 campaign with victory. Notching just their second win ever in the competition’s history, the Eastern European nation beat Ukraine 3-0 with the 31-year-old’s fierce strike kicking off proceedings. After the match, Stanciu had some words for fans in China, having spent two seasons in the Chinese Super League, enjoying title success in his... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267075/euro-2024-romanias-chinese-super-league-winner-stanciu-thanks-fans-china-support?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3267075/euro-2024-romanias-chinese-super-league-winner-stanciu-thanks-fans-china-support?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 18 Jun 2024 08:49:27 +0000 France delivered a 100th victory for manager Didier Deschamps as they beat a tenacious and well organised Austria side 1-0 in their opening Group D match at Euro 2024 but talisman Kylian Mbappé suffered a worrying injury on Monday. It was by no means a vintage performance though and France required an own goal by Austria defender Max Wober just before halftime to secure the three points. But, three years after bowing out of Euro 2020 in the last 16 to Switzerland, France offered enough evidence... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3266997/euro-2024-france-battle-past-austria-mbappe-suffers-injury?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3266997/euro-2024-france-battle-past-austria-mbappe-suffers-injury?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Jun 2024 21:45:50 +0000 Slovakia shocked Belgium 1-0 in the first major upset at Euro 2024 as two Romelu Lukaku goals for the Red Devils were nullified upon video review. Belgium’s Jeremy Doku gifted Slovakia the early opening goal from Ivan Schranz. Lukaku missed several chances, had one goal in the 56th disallowed for offside and another in the 87th because Lois Openda was adjudged to have handled the ball in the build-up. It was an early setback for the ambitious Red Devils around Kevin De Bruyne, who have zero... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3266990/euro-2024-slovakia-seal-first-major-upset-1-0-win-over-belgium?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3266990/euro-2024-slovakia-seal-first-major-upset-1-0-win-over-belgium?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Jun 2024 19:01:35 +0000 Romania turned in a high-octane performance to win their first European Championship match in 24 years with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Ukraine in their Euro 2024 Group E opener on Monday. Stunning long-range strikes in each half, one from captain and man of the match Nicolae Stanciu and the other from midfielder Razvan Marin, shocked Serhiy Rebrov’s Ukraine, who had dominated the opening 20 minutes of the match. Stanciu’s cannon shot into the top right had corner gave Ukraine goalkeeper Andriy... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3266984/euro-24-romania-stun-war-torn-ukraine-3-0-first-win-major-tournament-24-years?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3266984/euro-24-romania-stun-war-torn-ukraine-3-0-first-win-major-tournament-24-years?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Jun 2024 16:00:09 +0000 Superstar Portugal striker Cristiano Ronaldo is determined to make more European Championship history this summer. The veteran forward, 39, says his team “deserve” to win another major international trophy to add to their singular triumph, at Euro 2016. Portugal kick off their tournament against Czech Republic in Leipzig on Tuesday with Ronaldo set to start and appear at a record-extending sixth Euros. Roberto Martinez’s side qualified with a 100 per cent record and should progress with ease... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3266977/euro-2024-cristiano-ronaldo-set-record-sixth-tournament-says-portugal-deserve-trophy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3266977/euro-2024-cristiano-ronaldo-set-record-sixth-tournament-says-portugal-deserve-trophy?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Jun 2024 13:55:56 +0000