Stuart Broad is excited to see the resumption of the “awesome” competition between Steve Smith and Jofra Archer when the Ashes resumes in Manchester on Wednesday.While Broad welcomed the return of Smith after the worrying injury he sustained at Lord’s, he warned that Test cricket was a “brutal sport” and there would be no respite in England’s attempt to discomfort him.Smith was obliged to miss the Leeds Test after sustaining a delayed concussion injury when hit on the neck by an Archer bouncer at Lord’s. While Smith resumed his innings after a short period off the pitch, he appeared somewhat skittish and soon fell leg before having left a straight ball. Underlining his confused state, he called for a review of the decision but then walked off before it was confirmed.Also read: ‘We felt a bit like we got the Ashes stolen’ – LangerBut while some have suggested he may be somewhat nervous when facing Archer, Smith has pointed out that the bowler has not actually dismissed him in the series. All of which has left Broad looking forward to another gripping passage of play between the pair.”Firstly, it’s great that Steve is ok and coming back into Test cricket,” Broad said. “No one wants to see anyone miss cricket through a head injury. It was a nasty hit. It’s great to have him back.”But Test cricket is a brutal sport. Sides go hell for leather against each other. So I’m sure that, when Steve comes in, Jofra will be in Joe Root’s ear wanting the ball. And I’ll be excited when he does.”It was a really tasty bit of cricket at Lord’s. Smith was on 70 or 80 and playing beautifully, but suddenly Jofra went from bowling 84mph to bowling 95mph. He was really charging in. That’s the intensity – the theatre – Test cricket brings.”That sort of cricket is awesome to watch on the telly or from the stands but when you’re stood at mid-on it’s pretty special. Hopefully we can have a battle like that again.”The dream is someone nicks him off first ball and Jofra doesn’t get to bowl at him. But Smith does average 60-something. So there will probably be a period in this game where those two come together again and, touch wood, I’m on the pitch to view it.”Jofra Archer bowls during a net session at Old Trafford•PA Images via Getty Images
Broad has had his own experience of trouble against the short ball. He was memorably struck in the eye while batting against India at Old Trafford, the scene of this week’s Test, in 2014. Top-edging his attempted pull off Varun Aaron, he sustained a badly broken nose and admitted he suffered nightmares as a consequence. He used psychologists to help recover but, before the injury, he averaged 23.95 with the bat in Test cricket with one century and 10 half-centuries. Since then, he has averaged 13.18 with just two half-centuries.While he believes Smith is unlikely to suffer such extreme consequences, it has left Broad grateful for the improved protection offered by modern helmets.”Smith has a bit more skill than me with the bat so it probably won’t affect him,” Broad said. “I don’t think I’ve ever played in a series where so many people have even hit in the head. I can’t even describe why. Obviously both sets of fast bowlers are bowling well and looking in good rhythm. The pitches have maybe played slightly untrue and a bit two-paced: one will skid through and one will slow down. It feels like the doctors are running out every 10 overs.”But it’s part of Test cricket. You bowl a bouncer not to hit someone in the head, you bowl a bouncer to maneuverer footwork and change momentum of bodyweight. But your best bouncer is directed over leg stump and at the head, unfortunately. But fortunately the helmets are much better now.”While Archer’s confrontation against Smith may gain the headlines, Broad’s private competition against David Warner has been just as absorbing. Broad has dismissed him four times in the three Tests and feels he is reaping the rewards for bowling a fuller length. But he warned that the pitches for the final two Tests could be better for batsmen and praised Warner’s batting in the first innings in Leeds.”It’s been a great battle so far,” Broad said. “I’ve really enjoyed it. I had to look quite closely pre-series as, until this series, he had probably had the better of me.”I’d always focussed on his outside edge thinking that running the ball across him would bring in the slips. But the bloke has incredible hand-eye coordination, so if you miss your line at all it seems to disappear through the covers.”I had a change of mindset in this series and have tried to bring the stumps into play more against him. I’ve looked to nip it back onto off-stump and then, if the ball holds its line, it brings the outside edge in and that actually limits the scoring options slightly.”Also, the pitches have been in our favour with the new ball. I don’t want to take too much credit that I’ve out-thought him or anything. It’s been a really good time to bowl with that new ball.”But Test cricket always moves on and this pitch will be very different to Lord’s or Headingley. And on that first morning at Headingley it was probably as good a time to bowl as you’ll ever get in Test cricket: cloudy, heavy, swinging, seaming. He might have played and missed a lot but he got through that period and got a pretty crucial fifty. He’ll take confidence from that.”
Chelsea's recent transfer history doesn't exactly make for positive reading when comparing their spending to their Premier League position – stagnating in mid-table under Mauricio Pochettino. But that's unlikely to stop the spending anytime soon, with the Blues now reportedly now willing to bid for a long-term target.
Chelsea transfer news
Surprisingly, it was a silent January transfer window at Stamford Bridge when it comes to arrivals, with Pochettino forced to stick with what he's got. The Argentine hinted before the window opened that his squad were missing something, but his admission seems to have fallen on deaf ears, as he remained without reinforcements throughout January.
Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino
Pochettino said back in December via the official Premeir League website: "After the first half of the season, we need to check. That is the reality. If we are not receiving enough, maybe we need to do some movement. That is the thing to analyse with the sporting directors, to see if we can change this dynamic and improve in the second half of the season.
"I don't say if I am going to ask for more or less players. It's to see if the perception matches the reality. We are missing something. We need to improve our reality."
Chelsea's "outstanding" 9/10 star was as good as Enzo Fernandez v Villa
The 20-year-old looks like a totally different player.
ByJack Salveson Holmes Feb 8, 2024
Forced to wait until the summer, Pochettino may well find it was worth the delay when the next window arrives. According to Sport in Spain, Chelsea are "willing to bid" for Raphinha, who Barcelona may look to sell this summer due to his position in the pecking order and their need to sell-to-buy.
Raphinha very nearly joined Chelsea before eventually completing a move to Barcelona back in 2022, of course, and could now get a second opportunity to choose Stamford Bridge. Todd Boehly and co will have to fend off interest from Tottenham Hotspur, who are also willing to bid for the Brazilian this summer, but do that and they could land a long-term target.
"Monster" Raphinha has lost Barcelona place
When he completed a move to Barcelona for a reported £55m, there was all the hope in the world that Raphinha would go on and become a star in Spain, continuing his rise. Poorly timed injuries and disappointing numbers have proved to be an obstacle, however, and the emergence of 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal could be the nail in the coffin for the Brazilian's Barcelona career.
Appearances
70
Goals
14
Assists
19
A player with past Premier League experience, starring for Leeds United, Raphinha could yet get back on track with a move to Chelsea should they push on and secure a move this summer. If the winger avoided injury, then he could hand the Blues a major boost and finally begin to solve their inconsistencies going forward. What's more, the London giants would be getting a player who leads the press from the front, as revealed by Muhammed Butt on X.
The Journalist said back in February of last year: "Raphinha off. he was excellent. constantly drove forward and worked the ball into the box. a bit sloppy at times but NEVER stopped working. a defensive monster whose goal was also the product of his own hard work."
A manager praised for doing the "best job" in his league last season is a candidate to replace David Moyes at West Ham, if the Scotsman is indeed sacked.
Moyes facing uncertain future at West Ham
While the 60-year-old publicly stated that talks are 'well down the line' over a contract extension at the London Stadium, widespread reports indicate his future is far from certain.
ExWHUemployee shares manager search update from "the very top" at West Ham
Rumours are surrounding Moyes’ future.
ByEmilio Galantini Feb 14, 2024
A lacklustre start to 2024 has pushed West Ham chiefs into considering alternatives to Moyes, and it is reliably believed that negotiations over fresh terms have been postponed until the club have a clearer idea of the Scotsman's potential to bring more success.
“We know the Chairman is very aware of the discontent amongst the fans, he's not on social media but is very well-informed of what is happening," said insider ExWHUemployee this week.
"A new deal for Moyes is not close. Results and performances have put any planned talks back, and the manager of course has been warned things must improve fast. The objective was to retain Moyes, and the club are known to want to stay loyal to the manager, however we can confirm options are being assessed. Tim Steidten will be looking at alternatives as the club plan ahead, although that is to be expected.”
The likes of Lille manager Paulo Fonseca and former Chelsea boss Graham Potter have been floated as just a few of the potential options for owner David Sullivan in the last 10 days. If West Ham do decide to part company with Moyes, it would be for good reason, as the Hammers fan base appear divided over whether he can take them any further.
West Ham's league finishes under Moyes
Season
14th
22/23
6th
21/22
7th
20/21
16th
19/20
The east Londoners won their first major trophy since the 1980s last season, lifting the UEFA Europa Conference League after beating Fiorentina in Prague. However, West Ham also flirted with relegation to the Championship domestically, with the club still yet to win a single game in 2024.
It will be very interesting to see who Sullivan and Steidten could opt to appoint if Moyes leaves, with former Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper emerging as a candidate.
Steve Cooper emerges as West Ham option to succeed Moyes
Indeed, according to 90min, Cooper could be an option to replace Moyes at West Ham, as it is believed he'd be "in the running" if their boss departs. The Welshman has been linked with Crystal Palace in the last few months, but as they attempt a deal for Oliver Glasner, the door remains open for Sullivan to appoint Cooper.
He steered Forest away from relegation against all odds last season, as Cooper had to deal with both a bloated squad and consistent rumours surrounding his future.
Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper.
Former Irons head coach Sam Allardyce even praised him for doing the "best job" in England's top flight.
“If Nottingham Forest survive relegation, Steve Cooper has definitely done the best job of all the managers in the Premier League this season," said the ex-top flight coach last year (No Tippy Tappy Football Podcast via Forest News).
"What becomes difficult in terms of building team spirit is having too many players. Most managers don’t have enough. What they don’t have enough of is quality, and what they don’t want is quantity."
Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has joined his brother Shaun Marsh as Glamorgan’s second overseas signing for the Vitality T20 Blast while Gloucestershire have signed Australia one-Test swing bowler Chadd Sayers for a six-week county championship stint.Mitch Marsh was not selected for Australia’s World Cup campaign after being dropped from all three forms at international level in the last 12 months due to a form slump and lost his Cricket Australia contract.However, he has been selected for the Australia A tour of the UK which begins on June 15 and concludes on July 27. Marsh will only be available for Glamorgan after his Australia A commitments have concluded and if he does play in the Australia versus Australia A game prior to the Ashes on July 23 he will miss Glamorgan’s first four matches of the Blast.”He comes with a huge reputation in T20 cricket, with plenty of international experience and has also played in the IPL and the Big Bash so he knows how to play T20 cricket on the big stage,” Glamorgan’s director of cricket Mark Wallace said.”We were looking for a dual threat player, someone who can bowl with good pace and can bat in different positions in the order. He’s a very powerful striker of the ball and can either bat high up or lower down and give us some impetus in those middle overs as well so we’re delighted to have him on board.”The Marsh brothers are two of a number of Australians set for the Blast. Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey recently signed with Sussex, while Billy Stanlake (Derbyshire), Adam Zampa (Essex), D’Arcy Short (Durham) and Ashton Agar (Birmingham) are also set to play.Chadd Sayers is mobbed by his team-mates after picking up his first Test wicket•AFP
Meanwhile, Gloucestershire have signed Sayers as an overseas county championship replacement for injured South Australia teammate Daniel Worrell.Sayers had an interrupted Australian domestic season due to an ongoing knee issue, after making his Test debut in Johannesburg in March 2018. He had long been seen as a possible Ashes candidate but his injury-interrupted season saw him miss out on Australia A selection for the tour of the UK.Sayers replaces Worrall, who was sent home after suffering stress fractures in his lower back. Sayers will be with the Gloucestershire squad from June 11 to July 25 meaning he will be available for six division two championship matches, as well as two Vitality Blast matches.
Newcastle United are set to submit a bid for a highly-rated player whose "name is on everyone's lips" at his current club, according to a new transfer update from abroad.
Newcastle transfer news
A plethora of names have emerged as potential transfer targets for Magpies this month, as Eddie Howe looks to resurrect a season that is threatening to peter out. One player who has been linked with a move to Newcastle is Everton midfielder Amadou Onana, who is seen as someone who could make up for the absence of the injured Joelinton, with the Brazilian expected to be missing for many months. Similarly, Bournemouth's Philip Billing is also seen as an option in that area of the pitch, should he wish to leave the Cherries this month.
Meanwhile, Lazio star Alessio Romagnoli is the latest defender to be backed to join the Magpies, as Howe looks to bolster his options there, amid rumours of a move for Sporting CP ace Goncalo Inacio. In terms of attacking additions, VfB Stuttgart's Serhou Guirassy is considered a target, with the Portuguese continuing to enjoy an excellent season, scoring 17 goals in just 14 Bundesliga appearances in 2023/24 to date.
On the flip side, Kieran Trippier has been strongly linked with a shock move to Bayern Munich before the end of the January transfer window, while Callum Wilson is wanted by Atletico Madrid.
Newcastle readying Desire Doue move
According to a new update from L'Equipe [via Get French Football News on X], Newcastle are expected to submit a bid for Rennes midfielder Desire Doue before the end of the month, with Borussia Dortmund also interested in snapping him up.
A fellow update on their website claims that "Newcastle and Dortmund have both sought information in recent days to understand the potential grounds of signing the 18-year-old before submitting an offer later in the window".
Doue, who doesn't have a weak foot, appears to be a player of enormous potential, and can play as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder or second striker, so it is exciting to see Newcastle in the race to acquire his signature in January, acting as a long-term signing who could reach great heights over time.
At just 18, the Frenchman has already made 55 appearances for Rennes, scoring six goals and registering two assists in that time, while back in 2022, Breaking The Lines said of him:
"Desire Doue is the name on everyone’s lips on the streets of Rennes. Rivers of praise and attention have been steadily flowing since his goal against Brest on August 31, when he became the first player born in 2005 to score in all five of the major European leagues."
Doue has already won one cap for France's Under-21s, despite his tender years, and his potential as a player means that Newcastle may do all they can to beat Dortmund to his signing.
Long-term planning at St James' Park is essential, and the attacking midfielder could be seen as someone who can be a poster boy for the future, making this one to watch in the final weeks of the window.
West Ham are eyeing up replacements for the potentially outbound Nayef Aguerd, and it's believed one "very quick" defender has caught their attention.
Aguerd could leave West Ham in January
Despite being a mainstay under David Moyes before his recent injury, the Morocco international has been linked with what's been described as a "surprise" east London exit.
West Ham could sign "top level" Premier League striker, Moyes loves him
He may well depart his club next month.
By
Emilio Galantini
Dec 29, 2023
Reports this week have claimed West Ham are now willing to sell Aguerd in January, but won't accept anything less than £30 million with his contract set to expire in around 18 months.
The 27-year-old, who has started 16 Premier League games for West Ham this season, is attracting interest from Saudi Arabia with clubs from the Middle East eager to prise him away next month.
"We really wanted to buy him two years ago," said Moyes on Aguerd earlier this year, going on to praise the defender as a "stylish" and "really good" asset.
“He’s a really good player, really good on the ball, stylish. He’s got some really good attributes and I think he will big a plus to us.”
Nayef Aguerd's best 23/24 PL performances for West Ham
Match Rating (via WhoScored)
West Ham 2-0 Sheffield United
7.77
West Ham 0-1 Everton
7.28
West Ham 3-0 Wolves
7.21
West Ham 1-3 Man City
7.12
Tottenham 1-2 West Ham
6.88
As a result, it is now believed that West Ham chiefs are weighing up replacements for Aguerd as we quickly approach the winter window's opening.
The Hammers have already been linked with Dan-Axel Zagadou of Stuttgart as one option to step into Aguerd's shoes, with Football Insider now sharing news on another in Bayer Leverkusen stalwart Jonathan Tah.
West Ham eyeing Tah move to replace Aguerd
According to the outlet, and journalist Pete O'Rourke, West Ham are eyeing Tah as a candidate to replace Aguerd if their defender does indeed leave mid-season.
The 27-year-old has started 15 league matches under Xabi Alonso, with Leverkusen currently sitting pretty atop the Bundesliga table.
They're looking set to contend with Bayern Munich for the title this season, and Tah has played an instrumental role as Alonso's first-choice centre-back.
He may be difficult to tempt away from Leverkusen in January, but that hasn't stopped West Ham from registering an interest in the German.
Tah's form this season has even earned him call-ups to the national team, and there has been no shortage of praise for the defender's attributes in recent years.
"Jonathan has a great history here. He's an international player. He's ambitious. He is held in high regard by his teammates. We expect him to take the next step personality-wise," once said former Leverkusen boss Gerardo Seoane (via Bundesliga).
Meanwhile, former Germany manager Joachim Low heralded Tah's physicality and bursts of speed. Low said (via Bundesliga):
"He's a young player with a lot of potential. He's physically strong and very quick. Everything is possible."
The culture of togetherness within the squad was the main reason for the upturn in fortunes, Sri Lanka’s captain has said
ESPNcricinfo staff23-Feb-2019Sri Lanka have made history in South Africa, becoming only the third team overall – after England and Australia – and the first from Asia to breach the fortress in a Test series.It came against all calculations. After all, Sri Lanka have had very few reasons to cheer on the cricket field – or off it, for that matter – in recent months. Not to forget they had a new captain in the form of Dimuth Karunaratne for the series, with Dinesh Chandimal getting the axe after two huge defeats in Australia. The sword was hanging over coach Chandika Hathurusingha’s head too, and more than one key player picked up injuries and dropped out.”Beating South Africa two-nil isn’t easy. When we came here, we were underdogs. But we learnt a lot of things on previous tours, and the players executed really well in these conditions. That’s why we are here. It’s a great achievement for us,” Karunaratne gushed after Kusal Mendis and Oshada Fernando struck unbeaten half-centuries to take Sri Lanka to an eight-wicket win in Port Elizabeth for a series sweep.
We had a few discussions, what I expect, what the management expects, and after that, we kept hanging together, we ate dinner together, we were togetherDIMUTH KARUNARATNE
Just how big was the result? Karunaratne admitted that even when, at various stages, there were words of positivity and hope thrown about in the dressing room, “we didn’t take that seriously”.”I think we never expected to do it,” he said. “But when we started winning, we had the faith. We wanted to compete. Winning is the ultimate goal, but if we do the right things, the result will definitely be good for us. Most of the guys said that but we didn’t take that seriously, because when we have additional pressure, it’s not easy.”Cut to Saturday, which started with Sri Lanka 60 for 2 in their chase of 197, and “we said when you go out there, you play your natural game; if you can score, if you can hit over the fielder, go for it. That’s what in the first hour Mendis and Oshada did … when we played like that, South Africa were on the back foot.”Kasun Rajitha is pumped up•Getty ImagesKarunaratne stressed on “keep smiling” and “keep enjoying” as the main mantras for the players. After over two months on the road – with very little joy – the words proved useful.”The tour (in New Zealand) started in December, so we are out of the country for three months. If you don’t enjoy and if you can’t free your mind, you can’t give your best,” Karunaratne said. “I know the talent we have, so we wanted to get those out. If you’re enjoying yourself, you can definitely get those out.”With Mendis, who hasn’t had his best run with the bat while on the road, the new captain had to work extra hard. “He was really feeling the pressure, he was thinking about the social media and everything,” Karunaratne said. “But I said, ‘When you get a good knock, you’ll forget about it and we’ll keep supporting you. It’s high time you do it.’ And he did it for me.”Mendis and Oshada pulled it off in the end, but Sri Lanka had many other heroes in Port Elizabeth after Kusal Perera had done it all almost single-handedly in the first Test in Durban.South Africa only scored 222 and 128, and that was because the pace trio of Suranga Lakmal, Vishwa Fernando and Kasun Rajitha picked up 13 wickets between them and Dhananjaya de Silva, the lone spinner after Lasith Embuldeniya dislocated his left thumb, provided crucial breakthroughs in conditions not too suited to his brand of offspin.And no, comments from South Africans like Keshav Maharaj didn’t serve to spur the players on, according to the new captain, who now looks set to hold the job at least for the foreseeable future.”We had a few discussions, what I expect, what the management expects, and after that, we kept hanging together, we ate dinner together, we were together,” he said of the team culture he has tried to put in place. “When you make that culture, when you come overseas, only the squad will stay here … I wanted them to give their best and stay in the game all the time. They enjoyed a lot, still they are enjoying. It’s really a great feeling, when we are playing together, and my job becomes easier.”When we came here, no one thought we can win a series here. But if we back ourselves, we can win those matches. We wanted to do something good for the team, for the Sri Lankan fans. End of the day, we did a really good job.”
Tottenham Hotspur got back to winning ways on Sunday as Ange Postecoglou's side beat Newcastle United 4-1 at home in the Premier League.
The Lilywhites had failed to win any of their previous five top-flight matches, which resulted in four defeats and one draw, despite taking the lead in all of them.
They took the lead once again against the Magpies but were able to hold on for all three points with an impressive, energetic, display in front of their own fans.
Heung-min Son and Destiny Udogie both caught the eye with superb showings but Richarlison was just as good with a pleasing redemption up front.
Son and Udogie's performances v Newcastle in numbers
The Spurs captain was electric out wide with one goal, from the penalty spot, and two assists out in his more natural position on the left wing.
He completed 85% of his attempted passes and created four chances for his teammates across his 89 minutes on the pitch, although the South Korea international did miss one 'big chance'.
Udogie, meanwhile, kicked off the scoring with a close-range finish as Son whipped the ball across the six-yard box for the left-back to convert.
Tottenham star Destiny Udogie.
The former Udinese prospect also won three of his four ground duels and provided two key passes in a dynamic, all-action, performance from the Italy international.
Richarlison's performance v Newcastle in numbers
Whilst Udogie and Son were excellent, Richarlison was just as good with his brilliant centre-forward performance after the disappointment of his miss against West Ham on Thursday.
The Brazil international sent his free header wide of the post, which went down as a 'big chance' missed, as Spurs were fighting to get something out of the game.
Postecoglou placed his faith in the former Everton star by handing him a start in the number nine position and the gem rewarded that faith as he redeemed himself against Newcastle.
Richarlison helped to set the tempo for Spurs with his energetic display up front. He constantly hassled and closed down opposition defenders to make sure that Jamaal Lascelles and Fabian Schar were always under pressure – in and out of possession.
His hard work was rewarded in the 38th minute as Son cut the ball back for the Brazilian hero to bundle the ball into the back of the net to make it 2-0.
The 26-year-old ace then made it 3-0 on the hour-mark as he peeled off the back of Lascelles and brought a brilliant ball from Pedro Porro down to finish past Martin Dubravka.
Football.london's Alasdair Gold handed him a 9/10 match rating in his post-match article and hailed the striker's aforementioned relentless work rate.
Richarlison won four of his eight duels in total but also showed composure in possession to go along with his hard work and goal threat, as the talented marksman completed 81% (13/16) of his attempted passes.
It was brilliant to see that he was able to quickly put the disappointment of the West Ham blunder behind him in order to produce an impressive performance against Newcastle.
The ex-Watford star put on a show against the Magpies and was one of the stars for Postecoglou alongside Udogie and Son on Sunday.
Arsenal's invincible, title-winning season in 2003/04 is a unique achievement in Premier League football. Legendary coach Arsène Wenger led his side to something that will likely never be achieved again, no matter how many billions of pounds are spent.
Patrick Vieira, Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp are just a few players who cemented their place in footballing history. It wasn't easy, these players left everything on the pitch, and the Arsenal faithful will love them forever for it.
Football FanCast takes a look at the 10 biggest games in Arsenal's miraculous invincible season, which featured superb performances across all competitions. Here, FFC has ranked these games based on a variety of factors, including the difficulty of the opposition, the significance of the result and the effect on their unbeaten run in the Premier League.
10 Robert Pires completes superb Anfield comeback Liverpool 1-2 Arsenal
Saturday 4th October
Premier League
Liverpool 1
Arsenal 2
Kewell 14'
Hyypia og 31'
Pires 68'
Arsenal asserted their dominance in the Premier League with a pivotal victory against a strong Liverpool side. Despite missing key players like Patrick Vieira and choosing to rest Martin Keown, Arsenal displayed resilience. Manager Arsene Wenger surprised further by starting Jeremie Aliadiere in the attack and reshaping the lineup.
Liverpool initially took the lead with Harry Kewell's early goal, capitalising on a period of dominant play. However, Arsenal, despite the absence of their injured stars, managed to level the scores through an own goal by Sami Hyypia, aided by a deflection off Edu. The turning point came in the second half when Robert Pires scored an absolute worldie, curling in from distance to hand Arsenal the lead and ultimately, the win.
9 Gunners recover to beat title rivals Chelsea 1-2 Arsenal
21st February 2004
Premier League
Chelsea 1
Arsenal 2
Gudjohnsen 1'
Vieira 15'
Edu 21'
By this point in the season, Arsenal were considered heavy title favourites, heading into this game five points clear with 13 matches to play. With that being said, the importance of this comeback win against Chelsea cannot be overstated. The Blues took an early lead after just 27 seconds, with Eidur Gudjohnsen capitalising on Patrick Vieira's midfield error.
Arsenal responded swiftly, showcasing their trademark scintillating football under Wenger, and in the 15th minute when Robert Pires and Dennis Bergkamp combined, Vieira equalised. Arsenal seized the lead soon after when Neil Sullivan's misjudgment of a corner gifted Edu the opportunity to score.
Chelsea pressed for an equaliser, but Arsenal's defence, bolstered by the return of Sol Campbell, proved too formidable. Gudjohnsen's earlier booking came back to haunt him as he received a second yellow for a foul on Gilberto, reducing Chelsea to 10 men on the hour mark.
Despite Chelsea's efforts to find a way back into the game, Gilberto had two late chances denied by Sullivan. The match ended in Arsenal's favour, solidifying their position at the top of the table and furthering Chelsea's woes with Gudjohnsen's dismissal.
Ranking the 10 best Chelsea vs Arsenal matches of all time
Football FanCast has taken a look back at the best matches between the London rivals.
ByJack Salveson Holmes Oct 20, 2023 8 Reyes double dumps Chelsea out of cup Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea
15th February 2004
FA Cup
Arsenal 2
Chelsea 1
Reyes 56'
Mutu 40'
Reyes 61'
Arsenal loved beating Chelsea this season. Jose Antonio Reyes announced himself at Arsenal with a decisive performance, scoring twice to dash Chelsea's FA Cup hopes. Despite Arsenal missing leading scorer Thierry Henry due to injury, Reyes' impact from the bench that afternoon was immediate. Chelsea initially took the lead through Adrian Mutu's strike following Jens Lehmann's poor clearance.
Reyes, however, turned the tide after the break. In the space of five minutes, he unleashed a spectacular long-range effort from 25 yards to equalise and then capitalised on Chelsea's substitute 'keeper Neil Sullivan, who had replaced the injured Carlo Cudicini, with a clinical 12-yard finish. The goals rattled Chelsea, who had appeared comfortable in a fiery match marked by six yellow cards in the first half.
Reyes' outstanding contribution, coupled with Chelsea's misfortunes, including Cudicini's injury, secured Arsenal's progression to the FA Cup quarter-finals. Patrick Vieira's brilliant pass set up Reyes for his second goal, leaving Chelsea in disarray. Who needs Henry?
7 Late Cole header keeps Arsenal's CL hopes alive Arsenal 1-0 Dynamo Kyiv
5th November 2003
Champions League
Arsenal 1
Dynamo Kyiv 0
Cole 88'
Arsenal fans may not like him very much anymore, but in November 2003, Ashley Cole rescued Arsenal's Champions League aspirations with a late header, securing a crucial victory against Dynamo Kyiv at Highbury. The dramatic goal, coming 90 seconds from time, ended Arsenal's eight-match winless streak in the Champions League and revitalised their chances of progressing to the knockout stages.
Despite early frustration against Dynamo's sharp passing, Arsenal settled into the game, with Dynamo's goalkeeper making key saves. The first half was marked by Arsenal's struggle to convert chances, and Dennis Bergkamp missed an opportunity early in the second half. As the clock ticked down, Wenger made strategic substitutions, bringing on the likes of Sylvain Wiltord and Kanu.
The breakthrough finally came when Cole's late header met Thierry Henry's flick-on, securing a vital win and reigniting Arsenal's hopes in the Champions League.
Arsenal's top 25 Champions League moments
Arsenal have enjoyed some of their greatest European nights in the Champions League.
ByMark Marston May 15, 2025 6 Electrifying Henry display destroys hapless Leeds Arsenal 5-0 Leeds United
16th April 2004
Premier League
Arsenal 5
Leeds United 0
Pires 6'
Henry 27'
Henry pen 33'
Henry 50'
Henry 67'
Poor Leeds United, they had absolutely no answer for the unplayable Henry in this game. The silky Frenchman showed his brilliance with a four-goal performance as Arsenal closed in on the title with a commanding victory. The Gunners took an early lead when Robert Pires curled home a pass from Dennis Bergkamp.
Henry doubled the advantage before Michael Duberry's mistake led to a penalty, which he cheekily chipped home. Completing his hat-trick with a cool finish, Henry then added a solo effort for the fifth goal, with Arsenal's No 14 netting a seventh strike in as many days in the process.
5 Battle of Old Trafford sees Arsenal escape with point Manchester United 0-0 Arsenal
21st September 2003
Premier League
Manchester United 0
Arsenal 0
Van Nistelrooy m/pen 90'
Vieira s/o 81'
The 'Battle of Old Trafford' is one of the most iconic matches in Premier League history. Images of Martin Keown screaming at Ruud van Nistelrooy are seared into the minds of Arsenal and Manchester United fans alike.
The clash ended dramatically as Van Nistelrooy missed an injury-time penalty, prompting an intense reaction from Arsenal players. The Dutch striker's penalty miss came soon after an incident that led to Arsenal's Patrick Vieira receiving a second yellow card.
Arsenal players contested Van Nistelrooy's alleged overreaction, leading to heated confrontations and yellow cards for both teams. Arsenal, without Sol Campbell, showcased resilience and tactical adjustments, sacrificing flair for muscle after a Champions League defeat to Inter.
Despite the intense finale, Arsenal's solid defensive display secured a return to the top of the Premiership. The Gunners were a little bit lucky here. as Manchester United created plenty of chances, including Ryan Giggs' free-kick hitting the post and Van Nistelrooy's header looping onto the net's roof.
4 Arsenal complete Italian job in San Siro classic Inter 1-5 Arsenal
25 November 2003
Champions League
Inter 1
Arsenal 5
Vieri 33'
Henry 25'
Ljungberg 49'
Henry 85'
Edu 88'
Pires 89'
It was that man Henry who inspired Arsenal yet again in their 5-1 thumping of Inter. Needing a win on the night, Henry opened the scoring with a well-placed side-footer, but Inter equalised through a Christian Vieri shot deflected off Sol Campbell.
Arsenal regained the lead when Freddie Ljungberg tapped in Henry's cross. Henry extended the lead with a solo effort, and late goals from Edu and Robert Pires secured a 5-1 triumph. The win, avenging their previous defeat to Inter, showcased Arsenal's ability to transfer their Premiership form into Europe.
The victory positioned them to progress to the knockout stages, requiring a win in their final home game against Lokomotiv Moscow.
3 Gunners confirm place in history with final-day victory Arsenal 2-1 Leicester City
15th May 2004
Premier League
Arsenal 2
Leicester City 1
Henry pen 47'
Dickov 26'
Vieira 66'
This is the game they did it. The last game of the season, securing an incredible unbeaten Premier League campaign. Arsenal had become the first team since 1888/89 to finish a league season unbeaten.
Facing the prospect of losing their invincible record, Leicester City took the lead after 26 minutes when ex-Gunner Paul Dickov headed home. Henry wasn't going to let that slide. Determined to secure the historic feat, he equalised minutes into the second half with a penalty, awarded for Frank Sinclair's foul on Ashley Cole.
The decisive moment came in the 66th minute when Dennis Bergkamp's brilliant pass set up Patrick Vieira to score, ensuring Arsenal's victory and an unbeaten season. The incredible atmosphere at Highbury reflected the magnitude of this historic achievement, cementing Arsenal's place in football history.
2 Arsenal stage dramatic comeback to revitalise season Arsenal 4-2 Liverpool
9th April 2004
Premier League
Arsenal 4
Liverpool 2
Henry 31'
Hyypia 5'
Pires 49'
Owen 42'
Henry 50'
Henry 78'
Thierry Henry's hat-trick propelled Arsenal to a crucial 4-2 victory against Liverpool, putting them seven points clear at the top of the table. Liverpool took an early lead with Sami Hyypia's header, but Henry equalised after 31 minutes.
Michael Owen restored Liverpool's lead before half-time. Arsenal responded emphatically in the second half, scoring twice in a minute through Robert Pires and a sensational Henry solo effort. Henry completed his hat-trick after 78 minutes, securing a vital win for Arsenal after a challenging week.
Arsenal showed remarkable resilience to come back and get the win following the disappointment of recent FA Cup and Champions League exits. Liverpool, still battling for fourth place, couldn't withstand Arsenal's second-half onslaught.
1 Gunners secure Premier League title at White Hart Lane Tottenham Hotspur 2-2 Arsenal
25th April 2004
Premier League
Tottenham Hotspur 2
Arsenal 2
Redknapp 62'
Vieira 3'
Keane pen 90'
Pires 35'
This is the game that gave Arsenal fans eternal bragging rights over their north London rivals. Securing the league title at White Hart Lane? It won't get much better than that for Arsenal, even if they had already done so 33 years prior.
Patrick Vieira opened the scoring in the third minute, finishing a counter-attack orchestrated by Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp. Robert Pires doubled the lead with a calm finish after a Vieira assist. Spurs responded with Jamie Redknapp's well-struck shot in the 62nd minute.
Pires later hit the crossbar for Arsenal, but Robbie Keane secured a late equaliser from the penalty spot after being fouled by Jens Lehmann. The result, reminiscent of Arsenal's title-winning moment at White Hart Lane in 1971, confirmed their status as champions. Despite Spurs' efforts, the draw didn't hinder Arsenal's title celebrations, marking their third league triumph under manager Wenger.
علق أشرف نصار رئيس نادي البنك الأهلي، على الهزيمة التي تعرض لها الفريق الأول لكرة القدم أمام الأهلي بهدف دون رد، وذلك خلال المباراة التي جمعت بينهما ببطولة الدوري المصري الممتاز.
والتقى الأهلي مع البنك الأهلي على أرضية استاد القاهرة الدولي، في إطار منافسات الجولة 32 من عمر مسابقة الدوري.
وقال أشرف نصار في تصريحات عبر قناة “أون تايم سبورتس”: “لن أتحدث عن الهدف الملغي، كلامي لا يقدم ولا يؤخر النتيجة الرسمية المعتمدة هدف مقابل لا شيء، النتيجة العادلة هي كانت التعادل أمام الأهلي بالنسبة لسير المباراة والأداء”.
طالع أيضاً.. فيديو | وسام أبو علي يقود الأهلي للفوز على البنك الأهلي في الدوري المصري
وتابع: “الهدف الذي دخل مرمنا من كرة ثابتة وخطأ من الحائط، ولكن هذه كرة القدم، الفريق أدى وظهر بشكل جيد، طارق مصطفى كان يدير المباراة من المدرجات بسبب الإيقاف، متبقي لنا مباراتين سنلعب أننا نحقق المكسب لكي نحسن من مركزنا في جدول الدوري، سنعمل لأخر دقيقة في مسابقة الدوري”.
وأضاف: “بعدما قمنا بالتجديد لطارق مصطفى سنعمل بناء على رؤيته الفنية، الموسم المقبل هدفنا أن نلعب بطموح وهدف”.
وأكد: “الأسبوع المقبل سيكون هناك جلسة مع طارق مصطفى لكي نرى تدعيمات الفريق”.
هل كان هناك مفاوضات من الزمالك لضم يعقوبو؟ أجاب: “لا، اللاعب مستمر مع البنك الأهلي في الموسم المقبل”.
وبشأن ضم الأهلي لـ أسامة فيصل قال: “لا يوجد أي حديث من النادي الأهلي بشأن اللاعب”.
وردف: “نادي البنك الأهلي لن يتقدم بأي شكوى ضد طاقم التحكيم، سنغلق الصفحة الشكوى، لأنها لن تأتي بأي نتيجة ولا يوجد أي حد يرد علينا، تقدمنا بحوالي خمسة شكاوي هذا الموسم ولم يرد علينا أحد”.
وأتم: “لا بد من تغيير نظام الدوري في الموسم الجديد، يجب أن يأخذ قرار بتغيير نظام الدوري”.